How aortic stenosis may have saved my life.

[rosewynds]

I just wanted to let everyone know how your courage has motivated me to change my life. Before I found out last August that I had a valve problem, I rarely exercised and ate way too much. Even after I found out, I was so depressed that I probably gained another 15 pounds or so. I have hypertension as well and diabetes runs in my family, though I don't have that as of now.

In January, after reading so many of your posts, I decided that the time had come to stop feeling sorry for myself and change my way of thinking. You all have been through so much more, than I may ever go through. Since January 19th, I have lost 57 pounds, I now walk since early Feb. 3 to 4 miles a day, I feel so much better that I have in years. My doctor has lowered my blood pressure medication to only one pill a day, I now average a normal 114/72 a day. Before all this it ran around 165/110.

I just wanted to share this, I still have about 50 more pounds to lose, but I will do it. If I had never known about the heart problem, I may never have found the motivation to do this. But if I want to see my 2 beautiful grandaughter's grow up, I will keep this positive change for good.

Thank you all for sharing your courageous stories, you do more good than you know.

Lisa

 

[hensylee]

Well, Lisa, there you are - we wondered. Bless your heart. You have been really busy. This is a first - somebody comes in, is sick, disappears, comes back with a whole new life. All while we weren't lookin! This is just the greatest news. Congratulations on what you have done for yourself. It takes a very strong person to do what you have done. Wish I had that kind of dedication; I surely admire you. Thanks for telling us - no tellin who you have inspired from your post. God bless

 

[Nancy]

Wow Lisa-

Good for you! It's wonderful to hear such an uplifting post.

 

[ccrawford]

Way to go Lisa

Way to go Lisa

Lisa - it is so important to take control of the important things in your life, and you have grabbed ahold big time. We're proud of you, glad to have you as part of the family, and wish you the best. Keep us informed as you continue to make good progress. Those grandkids can be powerful motivators can't they? I know my three were an important part of some big changes in my life style. Chris

 

[bvdr]

And now Lisa, you too have become an inspiration. It took courage and determination to make such positive changes in your life. I bet if you keep it up the rest of the weight will also drop off. What a wonderful report! ...................Betty

 

[John Cochran]

Congratulations Lisa!!!
Too often people are fatalistic and don't believe they have the power to change their lives. As you so wonderfully prove, people can make amazing changes if they put their minds to it. Thank you for sharing your story, and as others have mentioned, you are now becoming an inspiration to others!

Keep it up!

--John

 

[epstns]

Great Work!

Great Work!

Lisa - Welcome back! You've been doing a great job of getting as healthy as possible, and it sounds like you're going on th hit the rest of your goals. Your state of health is always important, but even more so to those of us who will someday undergo heart surgery.

Keep it up -- you're doing the right things!

 

[Jean]

Hey Lisa, aren't you my buddy in Homer, MI? I lost track of you. So glad to read you truly uplifting story. Keep it up!

 

[mamsram]

YOU---are an inspiration. Thank you for sharing with us your good events, good news, and inspiring words. I guess discipline and love is a good mix

 

[rosewynds]

Thank you everyone for your kind replies, I am so glad I found this site. If I do have to have surgery down the road, it sure is comforting to know you all are out there.

I just got in from my 3 mile walk, and what a beautiful evening it is here in MI. It feels so good to be thinner and outside enjoying it.

Again, thank you for your kind words, you all are an inspiration to me.

Lisa

P.S. Hi Jean, yes it is me your Homer buddy! Hope all is well with you.

 

[Mark Wagner]

That's wonderful Lisa! I totally can relate. In my years past I talked about running a marathon, but I really wonder if I ever would have found the motivation within myself to do so. Heart surgery has away of changing the way you think about life. It's funny how after my surgery, I would find myself really taking in the views of the mountains and sound on the way to work. Life becomes more meaningful when you realize how suddenly it can be taken away.
Keep up the good work! ... Mark