On Jan. 14, 2016, I had a heart attack but having never had one before, I thought I was just feeling sick for some reason. I ignored the symptoms and then on Sunday, Jan. 17, I had another. Heart palpitations, pain, writhing on the bed face down, I had a weird out-of-body experience looking down on myself from above. My wife called 911, and the ambulance took me to the ER at Hartford Hospital. They confirmed a heart attack and blockage in my arteries.
I was admitted, and on the 20th underwent quadruple bypass surgery. I had multiple visits from several Mended Hearts volunteers offering encouragement while in the hospital. During the period of recovery several weeks later, I was looked after by the awesome nurses at cardiac rehab. It was while I was there that I thought about writing them a poem expressing my gratitude. On my last day there, I gave each of them a copy and tried to read it to them. It was an extremely emotional event. They took a copy of my poem and hung it on the wall in their office.
I also put together my own Ten Commandments. They can be read in full at betternowthanks.com but in summary they are:
1. Mornings
2. Meditation
3. Medication
4. Motivation
5. Mobility
6. Meals
7. Massage
8. Mentality
9. Moderation
10. Music
One other simple word of advice. Try not to sneeze!
Who are Mended Hearts?
Mended Hearts was formed in 1951 and is the nation’s premier support program for patients with cardiovascular disease serving millions by providing support and education to patients as well as family and caregivers. It is a non-profit and staffed by volunteers who have gone through heart issues themselves. Since its inception, it has formed two separate entities for children and young adults. There are 260 local chapters and satellites nationwide, and it partners with 350 hospitals and rehabilitation clinics across the country.
In August 2024, Mended Hearts held a nationwide contest asking people to submit an essay or poem about their heart issues and surgery. My poem, The Beat Goes On, won first prize and is available to view on my website (betternowthanks.com). I was also featured in the organization’s nationwide publication, Heartbeat Magazine.
My story is intended to provide the same kind of encouragement to people that Mended Hearts gave me. Since my surgery, I have lost a lot of weight (great opportunity to buy new clothes), and exercise almost every day. My diet has changed dramatically, and I am fitter now at 76 than I was prior to my surgery! Thank you to everyone who helped me through this journey, especially my loving wife Beth.