A very special time of year for me is always the month of February!  February marks American Heart Month, and is the perfect time to spread awareness of heart disease.  During this month, I frequently find myself reflecting on my past and remembering how I ended up on this journey of health and happiness.

It’s hard to believe it has been 12 years since I was diagnosed with my congenital heart condition, Supraventricular Tacchycardia (SVT) and underwent heart surgery!  My experience was a turning point in my life and helped shaped the person I am today, and it also guided the path my life was going to take in the future.  It seems like is was ages ago, but I will always be able to vividly recall the panic, fear, and pain that surrounded me for years before my diagnosis and procedure.  I feel lucky and blessed to have had an amazing group of people around who helped me stay strong during this time and supported my decision to have surgery.  People often times underestimate the importance of support, but it is truly a powerful thing!  There are so many unexpected events in life that we could never prepare for, and although it may not seem like it at the time, human beings can handle much more than we give ourselves credit for.  We all have a story and it’s up to you how yours is told!

February for me is a time to celebrate good health and be thankful for life, there’s is no other way for me to look at it!  I will spend much of American Heart Month raising awareness for a cause close to my heart and help educate others on how to incorporate healthy habits into their lives.  You will definitely see me sporting “red” on Friday February 6th to raise awareness of heart disease in women, and I hope you will consider joining me!  It’s always recommended that you talk with their doctor about heart disease and find out your blood pressure, cholesterol, and BMI numbers.  If you can help lower your risk for developing heart disease, why wouldn’t you?!  Get in the know and take control of your health and happiness today!