Rick's Profile

I thought I was just getting old. When my chronic murmur was evaluated as a routine exam, it scared the echocardiogram tech and I was informed that I needed surgery VERY soon. I did well, except for a problem with my blood pressure being too low (from meds). Gradually I discovered that I had an arrythmia. Initial I thought it was simple depression. I finally figured it out. They psychiatrist wanted me on drugs for the rest of my life. The Heart Rhythm disorder has persisted and become quite a nuisance, but I am capable of exerting myself (except at high altitudes when my heart is working inefficiently). What I have learned, and continue to learn, is that I must be my own advocate and make myself a bit of a nuisance when necessary