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Before I dish on this week's episode, there's an event my fellow heart buddy, Leigh, will be participating in this month which is the Adult Congenital Heart Association’s Walk for 1 in 100, an event to raise money and awareness about congenital heart conditions. Have you heard of the ACHA? It's one of the many non-profits in the U.S. that are working to improve the lives of Leigh and myself.

Leigh was born with a heart defect called tricuspid atresia. Her "weird and special heart" requires lifelong, specialized care, and she's not alone. More than 2.5 million people in the U.S. have congenital heart conditions—heart defects are the most common birth defect in America, affecting 1 in 100 babies. Medical advances have allowed many more people to survive into adulthood, but adequate medical care is still difficult to access. Research is scant. Many people with CHDs grow up without ever meeting anyone like them.

The ACHA has been working to change this reality for more than a quarter century, advocating for legislation in Washington, D.C., accrediting specialized cardiology clinics, funding research, and hosting events to educate and bring together this community. Their efforts have directly benefited Leigh, from the webinars that have given me much needed information to the research that has helped her understand "bum ticker."

I personally am so thankful I met Leigh and now call her a heart buddy. She is just a gem of a human. If you feel compelled, donate to ACHA in honor of her and the beauty she brings to this world.

In the meantime... this week's episode with Joel Oliver and his mechanical mitral valve...

It's amazing what our tender hearts can endure. Joel's story is raw and honest.

Notable quote:

"You don't feel very good for weeks and weeks after the fact, but just have that hope and that reassurance that it's going to be okay."

I agree with Joel. Heart surgery is so hard and then, all of a sudden, it's all better and life is more beautiful than one can imagine.

Key Highlights:

• A Journey of Resilience and Recovery Joel Oliver opens up about his experience undergoing a mechanical mitral valve replacement. He walks us through the days leading up to his surgery, the recovery process, and how he found his new normal. Joel’s candid recounting provides hope and reassurance for anyone facing heart surgery.
• The Importance of Perspective Joel and Boots dive deep into the significance of maintaining a positive outlook. They discuss how comparing experiences is natural but each journey is unique and should be honored as such. Joel reminds us that even the hardest moments are temporary and that life on the other side can be filled with gratitude and new opportunities.
• Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Growth Navigating life post-surgery involves more than just physical recovery. Joel shares his reflections on the mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of his journey, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and gratitude.
• Practical Advice for Heart Surgery Patients Joel offers invaluable advice for those preparing for or recovering from heart surgery. From managing medication to coping strategies for the recovery period, his insights are both practical and reassuring.

Call to Action: please leave a review, if you haven't already. It truly makes a difference in the podcast is found. Share this episode with friends and family to spread the message of hope and resilience.

Stay Connected: Follow me on social media and stay tuned for more inspiring stories. If you have a story to share, feel free to reach out; we’d love to hear from you.

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In case no one has told you today, I love you, thank you for being here, and your heart is your best friend.

xo Boots