My lifelong "party" of eating hamburgers, hot dogs, buttery popcorn, cookies, cakes, candies, etc...has come to an end! I met with the doctor today to review my recent lab work and heart scan. Unfortunately, in addition to having a small amount of plaque build up in one of my arteries, I also have high cholestrol. The two put together, along with my family history, give me an official diagnosis of Coronary Artery Disease.
The GOOD NEWS is that by catching it early, I can do something about it, before it becomes more advanced. I often think of my dad who passed away so unexpectedly from Coronary Artery Disease, without even knowing he had it. His death, had prompted me to be proactive about my own heart health. I feel lucky to have this chance to change my own future, and rewrite what could have been my own fate in 20 years. If only my dad could have had the same chance.
I will be on "aspirin therapy" and a cholestrol lowering medication for the rest of my life. In addition, I have 3 months to bring my cholestrol numbers down to a normal range with diet and lifestyle changes. If I am not able to get my numbers where they need to be, I will need more aggressive medications to ensure that I am not at an increased risk for a heart attack, stroke, etc...Of course the diet changes will be the hardest. We love our red meat, butter, eggs, etc... Time for fish and plant based foods, and lots of exercise to drop the 20 lbs. I have been lugging around. Hopefully all of those things will keep this disease from progressing. I will keep you posted!
Until then, here's to eating "heart healthy" and living well!
Friday, April 18, 2008
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Hi Kyle, Sorry about the disappointing finish at the track meet. At least you ran and finished the race. It looked like a nice day for the race. Ashlyn, guess what grandma found while cleaning out the garage? Yes, all your toys, the train,etc. It was in the box I had put it in but also put the box in a bigger black bag so I didn't find it until I opened the bag. Next time you come to grandma's they'll be here for you. Denise, I'm glad you caught the cholesterol situation before it got out of control. You'll definitely have to be careful and have will power to keep everything in check. You're on the right track with playing tennis and getting more exercise. I know the eating will be challenging but you'll have to think of your health. Good luck. Mom
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