Coastal Heart Cares and WomenHeart

I DON'T have heart disease!  However, I have several risk factors to concern myself with: family history, cholesterol (family, but controlled with meds), high blood pressure (family, but well-controlled with meds!), very early menopause - now I've probably shared too much!  


We belong to Coastal Heart Cares , a group founded and managed by Roland and Wendy Stoner, neighbors in Porters Neck, and Marlene Sigler, manager of NHRMC’s Cardiac Rehab program.  Since my DH has suffered from a HUGE variety of heart issues for the past 19 years (and really from childhood!), we routinely attend and sometimes participate in the programs that are presented bi-monthly for all local heart patients, their spouses and families.  Those of you who follow my blog have lived with me through some of the more harrowing nightmares my husband has endured.  

Last night's presentation was by far the most interesting, moving, informative, and yes....scary of all we've attended over the last 4 years.  It was a personal story from Pam Federline, age 49 and heart patient / advocate from WomenHeart: 
"National Efforts Put Spotlight on Heart Disease as Leading Cause of Death in Women

The Ready in Red campaign is led byWomenHeart Champions throughout the country – women heart disease survivors who are community leaders in education, advocacy and support for the 42.7 million American women living with or at risk for heart disease. More than 500 WomenHeart Championsthroughout the country will educate their communities and the nation on the importance of early and accurate diagnosis, proper treatment and prevention of heart disease women."  Read more here!

Her story is almost unbelievable; her attitude more positive than anyone can imagine considering what she's been through and will no doubt continue to endure for the rest of her life; and she presents with candor and humor that is always engaging, often emotional, and always instructive.  Her presentation and her story will not soon be forgotten by those in attendance.

I will NEVER forget Pam's story or her amazing resilience in the face of life-threatening experiences.  If you are a woman and you're reading this, do NOT overlook the signs of heart attack in women, which can be quite different from those of men.

Here's a recent article about Pam!  And another!