It is a good Friday! Two years ago today, I woke up in an intensive care cardiac bed after receiving six-bypass open heart surgery. That day, I felt like I had been run over by a truck, but I was joyful to be alive with the surgery behind me. My heart adventure was completely unexpected, for I had received great health checkups through the years, and all my vital signs were excellent. But thankfully, a stress test and subsequent angiogram had revealed all was not well with my heart. They found nine severe blockages, and my only realistic option was open heart surgery. A few days later, I had the operation. Thankfully, my recovery was rapid over the next days, and I was soon allowed to return home to recuperate. The hard part was purposely slowing down; thankfully, my family helped me through those days.
I am reminded that each day since then has been a gift, and I take immense joy in that fact. I am grateful that I am surrounded by a loving family and a wonderful crew to assist me in creating our art. My pace is not nearly as frantic these days as in years past, for I’ve learned what we don’t finish today will still be there tomorrow.
At every opportunity, I jump on my bike for an hour-long ride, quick enough to elevate my heart rate but leisurely enough to soak in the beautiful views along the winding riverside path. This is my happy place where I can think about life and the wonderful opportunities I am afforded. I am grateful!
