Open Heart Surgery with Boots

Hey Heart Buddies. It's been a long while since I last aired an episode. Sorry for that. In this episode, I get into the reason for my absence with the help of my dear dear friend, Melissa Snider. We cover her heart journey as well which includes two valvular issues.

We talk medical gaslighting (which I have talked extensively about on this podcast in the past), more about advocating for self, and my amazing experience at Cleveland Clinic so far. Since the recording of this episode, I have experienced more decline, and Cleveland is working hard on my behalf to get me better. The future is unknown. I have the attention of the very best doctors in the world now but the plan is still in flux.

"You get to hire and fire your team. And if you’re new to this podcast or you’re newly diagnosed, I just want to make sure that you are hearing this and will apply it to your own healthcare journey... You should still be honored by your healthcare provider, even if you just have a hangnail." – Boots Knighton

Be sure to follow/subscribe to this podcast to get more updates from me and so you won't miss the next season (when I feel up for recording). I'm not done yet! xo

"I grabbed the door handle, and it felt like somebody just cut up my chest with a dull butter knife. And 15 seconds later I was lying face down on the kitchen floor dead from cardiac tamponade at that point in time."

Hey Heart Buddies. Whew. Today's episode with Jon Toivonen whose heart story literally stopped—and restarted—multiple times is one to help you take stock of your own life. Jon recounts his first shocking symptoms, the surreal “butter knife” sensation of an aortic dissection, and how fate, luck, and love shaped his survival. While Jon’s physical heart has been patched together, the emotional journey is far from straightforward. Jon shares what comes after the surgeries: the mental battles, the power of community, and why an electric recliner might just be life changing. He also opens up about navigating the aftermath—ICU hallucinations, family impact, and the ever-present possibility of another health crisis.

Hey Heart Buddies! I welcome Dr. Marschall Runge, a leading expert in cardiovascular disease and AI in healthcare, this week to help us explore the transformative role of AI in heart health and discuss its potential to improve diagnostics and predict health outcomes. Runge shares insights into AI's ability to analyze complex medical data, enhancing preventive care and treatment precision. I ask him to address concerns about maintaining human connection in healthcare amidst AI advancements. The conversation highlights the importance of patients being proactive as the "CEO" of their health. Runge expresses optimism about AI's role in revolutionizing healthcare practices and outcomes.

This is a fascinating episode and a break from our usual story telling. I hope this episode empowers you to think outside the box of your current health care. Let me know if you liked it!

A simple coronary artery calcium score test saved Bill's life.

Meet Bill Pollard, a heart patient from Chesapeake, Virginia. Bill shares his unique journey with a bicuspid valve and stents. At 50, Bill made lifestyle changes after discovering high calcium levels in his arteries. Despite undergoing open heart surgery for valve replacement, Bill resumed an active life, running and participating in fitness groups. His recovery story offers inspiration, emphasizing the importance of heart health awareness, family support, and community connection. Bill’s experience highlights the significance of preventative health scans and maintaining a balanced lifestyle for optimal heart health.

Hey Heart Buddies! A heart murmur, congenital aneurysm of sinus of Valsalva, ruptured sinus of Valsalva into right ventricle, bicuspid aortic valve, persistent left superior vena cava and pacemaker... all in one extraordinary heart...

This week, I talk with my friend, Dawn Anderson, about her extraordinary heart health journey. Living in Adrian, Minnesota, Dawn shares her experience of discovering and surviving a rare aortic aneurysm and bicuspid aortic valve at age 41. Despite facing multiple challenges, including depression and the stress of losing her job, Dawn emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and seeking support. Her story highlights the necessity of listening to your body and staying informed about heart health. Dawn and I met through WomenHeart which is a non-profit providing education and support to female heart disease patients. Don't forget to subscribe!