About Me (In My Own Words)
I am 54 years old, born and raised in the beautiful country of Panama.
Born with a defective Aortic Valve - bi-cuspid.
Always been active, played sports, exercise; but at the age of 52 became a Zumba Instructor. I love what I do. I started taking Zumba as part of my exercise routine, ended up dishing all other kind of exercise and did only zumba. Dancing is my passion!
I had a TIA in 2010. The doctors never knew the reason for the TIA; but they did notice my defective valve, so when I was released from the hospital in 2010 I was told to monitor my valve. So I did. One day while teaching Zumba, noticed that I was out of breath right at the beginning of the first song. I had to slow down because I was feeling weak, short of breath, and a tight chest. That day I've eaten 30 minutes before my class, so I told them that, I thought that was the reason for me feeling that way. The episodes kept coming back, and I kept coming up with all kind of reasons for it. Until one day while teaching I could barely move my legs and almost faint in the class. I was scheduled for a follow up with my Cardiologist so I waited until the day of the appointment. Yes, the Doctor confirmed that my valve had deteriorated to the point of critical. I continued teaching; but reduced the number of classes thinking that will help; but it didn't. Every time I had to teach a class I was nervous and praying that nothing will happen. See that thing was, that the symptoms were temporary and I will then get my energy back and teach at my normal pace and give a high energy class. I was in denial! On the next appointment with the Doctor I told the him I was ready to consult a Surgeon. I could not live in fear that something happen to me. I was in my best health and physical shape, except for the valve, and I knew if I had to have major heart surgery, now was the best time. So I decided to go for it. Consulted two doctors in the Philadelphia area, after doing my research of who was the best in this area to take care of my precious heart :-). I decided to go with Dr. Bavaria at Univ. of Pennsylvania. Great surgeon! Had my surgery on March 17 and was released on the 22nd. Respiratory tube was removed on the first day. All tubes were removed by the 3rd day. Started walking on the 2nd day after surgery at 3am. I could not wait any longer. My legs were swelling and I knew walking was part of the beginning of the success of my recovery. So the nurse came to help me and there we went. At 8 am on the same day a physical therapist was sent to me and we started exercising.
I have not stopped exercising since. I am not teaching Zumba yet; but I have been power walking 3 miles a day, and when I am not walking, I am dancing, yes I need to practice and choreographed and get ready for my return. I teach Zumba to adults and children. I can't wait to get back!!!
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
-
I am from:
East Norriton, Pennsylvania
