Here I am, a woman in her 50's who has endured much. I've experienced numerous lifetimes, yet somehow it all seems 'normal' to me. So, where should I start? I'll start from my current position. I am a Licensed Massage Therapist and a Certified Integrated Health Coach. I run my own massage and Health Coaching business and am blessed with a wonderful client base." 
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For the majority of my life, I have been an athlete: engaging in dance for nearly 15 years as a ballerina, practicing gymnastics, playing volleyball and basketball, swimming, and competing in six track and field events.

January, 2020... My life Changed:

As COVID began to disrupt our way of life, I experienced something unexpected. My weight started to drop suddenly. Each day brought the excitement of seeing the scale register a pound less.

Admittedly, I was under an immense amount of stress.
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I had moved 1000 miles away and was in the process of launching a new business. I found myself constructing rooms for my wellness spa while simultaneously attending to clients. Financial resources were limited, and any income from clients was immediately reinvested into the business. Despite this, I attributed the weight loss to my seven-day workweeks filled with painting, building, massaging clients, and managing my household. Although fatigued, the thrill of creating my own space was exhilarating."

On my sister's advice, who is a Nurse Practitioner, I decided to consult a gastroenterologist to ensure my health was in check.

The colonoscopy was my first procedure, and it marked a turning point in my life. As I regained consciousness post-procedure, a nurse approached me to inform that they had contacted my husband and that I should prepare for his arrival to take me home. After hastily attending to another patient, a different nurse approached me with a concerning observation: she mentioned that during the procedure, my heart exhibited an unusual behavior that she had not encountered during her over 20 years as a cardiac nurse.

Feeling a bit drowsy and confused after leaving, I thought to myself, "Well, I just turned 50, and we have a history of heart issues in my family, so here we go." I sent a picture of my tape to my younger sister, who promptly provided me with the name of a cardiologist she recommended.

I underwent all the examinations with my cardiologist, who was meticulous. Some tests posed challenges because my insurance company was skeptical about the necessity of certain procedures for a "healthy" and active individual at 50. Nevertheless, we persisted. Each test returned flawless results—no blockages, no hardening, no issues whatsoever.

He remarked, "Well Heidi, everything appears to be in order. There are only two more tests we could consider. One option is to undergo a CT scan, which would allow us to actually see what's happening inside. It's the least invasive method. What are your thoughts?"

Here is a brief overview of my health history:
Throughout my life, I have experienced stomach issues. In the past, I underwent Hiatal Hernia Surgery and had my ovaries removed due to cysts. I have suffered from chronic stomach pain, migraines, and anxiety issues. Additionally, I have been involved in several car accidents resulting in injuries. I have also endured two challenging childbirths with my sons; during one, I contracted meningitis from the epidural, and the other was a natural birth of a 10-pound baby who was facing upwards. Moreover, I have encountered numerous minor injuries and illnesses.
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I agreed to go, but I hesitated. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people were far sicker than I was. With limited availability, I felt guilty for potentially taking an appointment from someone who might have needed it more.
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On the day of the CT scan, the nurse remarked on the unusual nature of my heartbeat. It was somewhat validating because I had doubted the necessity of this procedure, considering it somewhat excessive. Reflecting on my health history and all the surgeries and procedures I've undergone over the years, it struck me as odd that no one had ever commented on my heartbeat before.

After my appointment, I waited.

With the easing of COVID restrictions, I was able to reopen my practice as an essential service. Thus, amidst doctor's appointments, I continued to grow my practice, performing five to six massages daily while now also managing staff. The persistent stress of COVID, coupled with the challenges of staff management and the gradual process of decorating and establishing a practice, was overwhelming.

The call to review my CT results finally came. 
The doctor revealed that I had a congenital heart defect leading to heart failure. Urgent open-heart surgery was necessary, and I had to cease all activities immediately. From his office, he contacted a heart surgeon who agreed to extend his hours to accommodate me. I was promptly sent across town for a consultation.

Here I am now. I survived the surgery and have recovered.
Throughout this ordeal, I continued to serve clients, pursue education, and embrace the practices that ultimately saved my life.

If not for the nurse who suggested,
'Hey... you might want to check this out,'

​ I likely wouldn't be here.