In late fall/early winter of 2023, my life was irrevocably altered forever when I was taken to the ER at Piedmont Hospital for severe kidney stones. Little did I know that trip to the ER most definitely saved my life. It was through an accidental finding (that day in the ER )that I had an aorta aneurysm and a leaking heart valve that needed to be replaced. Subsequently, I received immediate care from the cardiology team and met with a cardio thoracic surgeon at Piedmont. I had open heart surgery in January 2024 and spent 10 days recovering in the hospital. During the time, I received top of the line care from the many caregivers at Piedmont Hospital. I had an amazing surgeon who quite literally saved my life and will be forever indebted for each and every one of them.
Let my experience be a lesson for everyone! Never , ever ignore any symptoms! Maintain yearly physical checkups! Ask for an EKG! Monitor your blood pressure. I had some very typical symptoms indicating a heart problem leading up to my kidney stones. I was short of breath more times than I should have been. I had dizzy spells and dry mouth. I suffered from extreme fatigue. My hands/fingers were swollen. My coloring wasn't great. I chalked every single symptom up to a cold, not getting enough rest, not sleeping well, not eating a better diet. My outcome could have been so so different and that stays with me each day.
It's time to unite, take action, and save lives. Every walker who joins, every dollar donated, means more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more research and more lifesaving moments for everyone.
I Walk to Save Lives. Help me reach my goal today by joining our team or donating towards our goal. Together, we can turn bystanders into lifesavers.
Thank you for all the amazing support and love my family and I have received in the last 18-22 months. Cardiac illness affects so many people and we will all probably know someone who has been/is/or will be affected. Please join me and my family in making a difference in our lives!
Love,
Aimee Jones
