back the normal blood flow to my kidneys, so my kidneys began shutting down. To get my kidneys functioning, I was put on dialysis, a treatment that helps remove and prevent a buildup of waste, salt, and extra water. I was on dialysis for two or three weeks, and the process was taxing, lasting from morning until the afternoon.”
“I had to complete physical and occupational therapy, learning how to walk and dress myself. Doctors said the therapy would take at least 10 to 14 days, but I pushed myself to finish in six—I needed to be with my kids. When that was done and I got home, I had to start cardiac rehabilitation to get my heart strength back up. Once I had enough strength, I went back to nursing school after taking a medical leave. I finished up and graduated in July 2021. Since September, I’ve been working as a licensed practical nurse.”
“It’s been nearly two years since my heart attack and heart failure, and I do everything I can to enjoy life to the fullest, from going to work to playing with the kids. I wake up every morning thankful for a second chance. Along with help from my LVAD, I manage my diet and regularly see my cardiologist to make sure my heart is healthy. I have no more pain.”
“Still, I know I shouldn’t have reached this point. When something is wrong, you want people to listen. I’m hurt that I wasn’t believed, written off as having anxiety. If I would’ve been listened to, maybe my heart issues could have been caught sooner, and I would have avoided this altogether.”