In November of 2021, I had COVID and was down and out for two weeks. As I was starting to feel better, pain began developing in my left leg. At first, I thought I was dehydrated or lacking protein.
Two days went by. My left leg was twice the size of my right leg, and the pain was worsening. I drove to the hospital and spent three days on heparin, an anticoagulant. Tests confirmed I had deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in my left leg from above my knee up through my groin and into my stomach.
Long story short, after four procedures and a very long stent, I still have 40% blockage in my main vein. I had no risk factors leading up to this, and I deal with post-traumatic stress daily. I have good days and bad days.
I’ve slowly been getting back into the things I love to do. I still have to be careful with hiking, working out, and daily activities. I am on blood thinners and baby aspirin for the rest of my life.
I was a healthy 39-year-old man when this all happened to me. I am now a 41-year-old survivor of a blood clot and living the best life I can.
Resources
Signs and Symptoms of Blood Clots
Know Your Risk for Blood Clots
New Patient Resource Guide
