Early (12:30 AM) Monday, June 5, 2023, I experienced a feeling in my chest that migrated down my left arm and back, and radiated from front to back and front, again. Medical professionals would call it “pain”. I describe it as a deep, specific ache. Within short minutes I knew something was very wrong and not me. “We’re going to the emergency room.” I told my husband, Al.
Longer story short – I was having a heart attack. Because of the location of the blockage, no stint or ballon. I’m being treated with medication for now. After the procedure, my cardiologist said: “You are no longer a smoker.” I replied: “That’s right.” Done and done.
As a life long swimmer I took baby steps to get back into Narragansett Bay (RI), where I had just swum the Friday before for the third time this season. Two days ago I was back in that water – slowly, attentively. It was wonderful.
Follow-up appointments with PCP and cardiologist are on the calendar. I was very fortunate. I’m feeling blessed and filled with gratitude. June 5, 2023, was not my day to die.
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NB: Because of this life-changing health event, I’ve begun researching women and heart attacks. There’s alot of information available. It’s my intention to write atleast three (3) pieces focusing on different aspects of health care, heart attacks, and women. More needs to be known. More needs to be shared. More needs to be talked about to elevate the knowledge and understanding. Women and men don’t, necessarily, experience heart attacks the same. What’s your heart attack story women? I’ve just, briefly, told you mine. Thanks, in advance.
Jessan Dunn Otis|Writer 
Well, my old friend, we’re not in Park School anymore! I’m so happy that you recognized your symptoms and got medical care. Please take great care of yourself so you can help other women. My best always…Cathy Rounds Waldron.
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Dear Cathy ~ We do go back quite a long way, don’t we? Park Elementary School – indeed! Thank you for commenting. I had a bit of warning the night before. However, the next night, June 5, there was no doubt. I consider my heart attack a “knock on my head”. It could have been so much more. As I’ve begun to research heart attacks and women, it’s clear that women and men don’t, necessarily, experience/present heart attacks the same way. I’m already listening to stories about how the medical profession, sometimes, diminishes women’s concerns when, indeed, they are having a heart attack. I’m planning to write a short series of articles about that; and, will post them *here* and circulate them ’round social media sites. If my telling and sharing helps just one woman to listen to her body and do what she needs to do to save her own life – all good. Again, Cathy, thanks for swinging by and commenting – much appreciated. Cheers! ~Jessan
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