Knowing My Numbers Helped Me Find My Voice 

Before my heart failure journey began, I didn’t really understand what heart failure meant. I assumed that if my heart was still beating, it could not be failing. When I began experiencing extreme fatigue, shortness of breath and fluid retention, I knew something was wrong, but I did not understand how serious it could be.

Even taking a shower became exhausting. Raising my arms to wash my hair could leave me needing to sit down.

I was eventually diagnosed with heart failure related to problems with my heart valves. My journey has included multiple open-heart surgeries, but it has also taught me how important it is to listen to my body and take an active role in my care.

Knowing my numbers helped me feel like a partner in my care instead of someone waiting to be told what happens next. It gave me confidence to have better conversations with my cardiologist and make healthier choices.

One number that became especially important to me was my ejection fraction. At first, I did not understand what it meant or why I should track it. As I learned more, I began asking my doctors: How is my ejection fraction? Is it within the “typical” range? How does it compare with my previous results?

My advice is simple: Listen to your body, ask questions and keep advocating for yourself. Even when you feel well, talk with your doctor and ask, “What are my numbers, and where do they fall compared with what is considered normal?”

There is beauty in the struggle. Be your own advocate. 

Don’t wait to track and understand your heart health numbers. Download this worksheet to write down your latest numbers, symptoms and any questions you have for your healthcare team, and take it to your next visit.