I Kept Saying I’d Go to the Doctor. Then Everything Changed.

For a while, I knew something wasn’t right. I was tired, getting more winded and noticeably bloated. But there always seemed to be a reason to put off going to the doctor. It was COVID-19. I was caring for my mother. Life was busy. I kept telling myself, “I’ll go.” And I didn’t. 

Then in May 2022, while on my way to my stepmother’s funeral, I became very sick. I had persistent indigestion, looked pale and could barely make it down a hallway. I finally said, “I think I’m having a heart attack.” 
 
That heart attack changed everything. I spent eight months in the hospital, much of it in intensive care, and was on life support for weeks. I had to learn how to walk again, starting with one step away from my bed. 
 
Today, I live with heart failure, COPD and chronic kidney disease. I pay close attention to several numbers, including my fluid levels, kidney function, blood work and ejection fraction. Those numbers help my care team see changes early and help me understand what my body is telling me. 
 
My advice is simple: don’t assume it can’t happen to you. Get your checkups. Know your numbers. Ask questions. Heart failure has changed the way I live, but it has also taught me to appreciate life differently. Each day truly is a gift. 

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.