In October 2020 I began to experience difficulties breathing, sharp stabbing pains, and dizziness that continued for for five days.
During this time, I was avid long distance runner and weight lifter. My life revolved around fitness. I assumed since I was in such good physical condition that something like this would ever happen to me.
After the five days, I was brought to the hospital where I was diagnosed with multiple bilateral pulmonary emboli. This was shocking and devastating, but also a wakeup call. I always thought I was invincible health-wise. I was given an anticoagulant at the hospital and continued them for nine months while I rehabbed my lungs. I had lung infarctions on both sides since I waited to get checked out. Zone 2 training became my best friend. Working at a lower heart rate has helped my work my lungs back to where the were before my PE.
During my hospital stay, I created goals for my future, which I am proud to say I accomplished. I ran a marathon and I compete in half marathons and 10k races to this day.
I am so grateful that I went to my local hospital when I did. I definitely have a guardian angel. This experience has given me such an appreciation for life, my family and my friends. You only have so many trips around the sun so make them count!
Resources
Athletes and Blood Clots
Blood Clot Resource Center
Signs and Symptoms
