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Photo Credit: Adam Smith , Photography

I am a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, patient advocate, American Heart Association National Heart Valve Ambassador, global humanitarian and heart disease survivor. A couple of years ago , I received a new heart valve plus a pace maker. I was born with an abnormal heart valve and developed symptoms at age 42. I notified my doctor, a test was ordered then I received a mechanical valve. Four days later I developed heart blockage . The doctor informed my family that I would need a pace maker to help my heart function. A year later, my third surgery took place : pace maker revision. My fourth surgery took place on December 21st, 2015; I received new batteries in my pace maker.

How I cope with heart disease on a daily basis?

a) Pray

b) Take One day at a Time

c) I rely on my faith in God

d) Read Daily Devotionals

e) Write in my journal

f) Maintain a good relationship with my amazing medical team

g) Keep the lines of communication open with my family, neighbors, friends, church community, and medical team; especially on the days when I'm not

feeling 100%

h) I use my gift of service ( provide hope and encouragement) to help patients and their caregivers.

Five things I wish I knew before my heart valve procedure…….

More information about the potential side effects after surgery; anemia, shortness of breath, low endurance ; which occurred after my open heart procedure
Time frame for the recovery process…
How to cope with the physical limitations
How to prepare for the transition ; post-surgery
More information about the medication

Five Things I know now: after my heart valve replacement & three pace maker surgeries

Each day is a gift from God.
It’s very important to notify my cardiologist when I develop any new symptoms; I'm so thankful for my doctor.
Keep the lines of communication open with my family & friends re; my recovery.
Focus on the positive; reach out, give back to the community : help others cope with heart related issues.
Press through the low moments, stay positive, focused , strong & never ,never give up.

Practicing Self Care during a Pandemic and Seven Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy

Please click the link(s) below and feel free to share the healthy resources with your family and friends.

COVID-19 – Mayo Clinic Health System

Coronavirus (COVID-19) | American Heart Association

Self-care during the COVID-19 pandemic – Mayo Clinic Health System

Kids coping with the COVID-19 pandemic – Mayo Clinic News Network

Be Healthy For Good with Life’s Simple 7 Infographic | American Heart Association

I thank God for saving my life..

12 Year Heart Valve Disease Survivor: true blessing

“Saving Lives Together” :

Please click the link below for additional information

2021 Greater Atlanta Heart Walk Custom Ink Fundraising

Photo Credit: Taken By LaLa Photography