My Heart Story - Why I'm Walking
Last October, I went to urgent care because I couldn't breathe right, was severely fatigued, and hadn't slept in days. My blood pressure was dangerously high-220/140. I was rushed to the ER, then admitted to the ICU, where I learned I had Heart Failure with reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF), stage 3a kidney disease, and high blood pressure. My heart function was dangerously low (EF 25-30%), and my proBNP-a marker for heart failure-was 26,963 (60 times higher than the upper limit of normal for my age.)
With the help of life-saving medications, a committed care team, and support from friends and family, I made big changes: low-sodium, heart-healthy eating, daily walking, and consistent care. By March 2025, my proBNP dropped to 111 and my heart function recovered to a normal EF of 62%. Today, I'm symptom-free and thriving.
I'm walking in the AHA Heart Walk on Sept 20 because I wouldn't be here without the research and advocacy the American Heart Association makes possible. Please join me for the 1 mile or 2.6-mile walk - or support the cause by donating $1, $5, or whatever you can. It truly makes a difference.
#HeartWalk #HeartFailureSurvivor #ThankYouAHA
