To say Heart Awareness is rampant in my family would be an understatement. I have been touched by heart disease, heart attack and congenital heart defects in the most immediate of my family.
From my maternal grandfather who survived a most brutal heart attack, uncles, mother, and sister all with their share of heart complications. My daughter, who was diagnosed with SVT (Supraventricular Tachycardia) when she was 8 years old, have all kept the delicacy of the heart in the forefront of our lives.
The beginning of my experience is not uncommon, though my condition is considered rare. My story starts with a few trips to the ER, being told that my shoulder pain was "indigestion". Had I not been referred to a doctor that actually listened, I am certain I would not be here today. My story from detection to surgery was a short one, although my recovery is taking longer than expected. I was lucky enough to be referred to a Cardiologist that not only listened but was willing to do what was necessary to find out what was actually going on. I was tested on July 29th. On August 13th John and I met with the doctor to find out that I had a congential heart defect, ARCA. At that time I was told that until I had surgery I could not do anything. Upon explanation that meant go to work and go home. No housework, no carrying anything over 5 lbs and limit stairs as much as possible. For someone that was use to doing everything on her own, that was the most trying. The next step was finding a surgeon that could perform the surgery, which was not an easy task. That investigation took about 2 weeks. I was lucky enough to find a surgeon in NYC and met with him on September 5th. He made it clear the surgery was not a choice and we so we set it for September 25th. The surgery itself was not without complications but I am grateful to be alive to tell the story and maybe help someone else to be a toughest advocate for themselves.
During this whole process I have had the most amazing people standing with me, fighting for me, and supporting me in ways I could never repay. My family, friends and work family gave me strength when I needed it at a time that for once, I could not stand on my own.
I am honored to say that my work family has come together and decided to support this organization in a joint fight. Not just because of the importance of the American Heart Association but because of the incredible close to home impact it has had. Pritchard Development has supported me through the current, difficult time in my life. As a thank you to for everything Brett and the Team has done, I want to fight to make a difference. I have a high goal but I know that with help of all my friends and family we can meet it!
I walk for research, education, instruction and support that not all have behind them. Please help me reach my goal by signing up to walk with us, donate for us or both! I want to make a great showing of a team making a difference in the lives of so many. Thank you in advance for all your support.