Ken,

You will look at life differently from this point forward. We're all invincible until we're not! Character and perspectives are shaped by life's experiences. As the saying goes "whatever doesn't kill me makes me stronger" should have new meaning! Meaning it sounds like you've experienced before. Take nothing for granted, what happened to you can and does happen to more people than any of us realize and in many cases to people not only younger than you but significantly younger. Whether it's hereditary, diet related, stress related it happens every day. Stress and the effect it has on our bodies is significant and there's nothing wrong admitting that. Lesson learned from your experience is if something doesn't feel right usually it isn't. It took you almost six days to acknowledge that and go to the ER only when forced to which in hindsight could have cost you your life.

We're all creatures of habit, we don't hesitate telling someone else they should see a doctor BUT when it comes to ourselves it almost always as you did "If the problem persists I'll see a doctor in a few days!" That might work with certain ailments but if you have symptoms of a heart attach time is of the essence and seconds can make the difference between writing an article about your experience or not!

No one knows your body like yourself, if it's telling you something listen! This is one situation where "better safe than sorry" are truly words to live by. Thanks for sharing your experience and good luck with your rehab and recovery. You have a second lease on life, maybe fourth in your case, which unfortunately many other don't get. Hopefully sharing your story will help save someone's life. With medicated stents, today's technology and medication, you can live not only a normal life but in many cases a better quality life after experiencing an attack. Some exercise, an improved diet, keep up with your meds and make a conscious effort to enjoy the good things life has to offer and ignore all the other noise and all will be well.

Get well my friend and look forward to reading your reports for many years to come!

Dakota