Susana A.

I had my heart attack a little over 13 months ago. I was at home when it happened. My husband came in and gave me a Bayer® Aspirin. Next my college aged son came in and called 911. I had an unexpected heart attack with a 90% blockage that was stented and a 60% that was deemed "not ripe enough". I did not have high cholesterol - it was 150. I didn't have high blood pressure or diabetes. I had only started one prescription, Synthroid, for sluggish thyroid. I had been telling my doctor for a year that something was wrong. I had a "feeling" and I was so tired!! I did find out after the fact that my good cholesterol (HDL) was only 35 and should have been much higher. And to be completely honest with everyone I was a smoker and had been for 35 years. But I QUIT THAT DAY COLD TURKEY!! I started cardiac rehab about a month after my event and still continue it today. I have gained 20 lbs. since then but am finally feeling strong enough to try to reverse that. I did not know I was having a heart attack, my symptoms started with excruciating pain in my shoulders that moved to my jaw then my cheekbones. By that time I was in full blown panic attack (had never had one of those either) my arms, hands, and fingers were going numb and tingling. Just last week I had a stress test that came back normal with no change in the 60% blockage and my HDL is up and that is good. I was the epitome of health and everyone was totally shocked that I had a heart attack! The biggest change in me has been my personality. I was type-A supermom - thought I had to do it all and worry about it all. I have done a complete 180 in that I now try to accept help and let everyone handle their own issues. I know how lucky I am to have a second chance! Thanks for reading!

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