At times, cardiovascular patients that I mentor say, I don’t know where to begin or what to even ask my doctor. I get it! My husband and I had no clue after being “backdoored” with his diagnosis. And the terminology was overwhelming coupled with the fear of the unknown
Remember during your visit to ask your physician to “take it from the top.” In other words, to repeat what he/she has said because it can be a lot to absorb. To get you started, if I were a heart disease patient, some relevant questions that I would want to know better include:
1. What type of heart condition do I have?
2. How will my condition affect my daily life?
3. What treatment options are available for my condition?
4. What lifestyle changes can I make to improve my heart health?
5. Are there any support groups or resources available for heart disease patients?
These questions can help heart disease patients better understand their condition and make informed decisions about their health.
In discussions with patients and family members, they might not ask me certain questions initially because of a fear of making me emotional since his death in October 2015. I immediately let them know I appreciate them being compassionate, but let’s get down to business.
I can imagine that they may think, “Well it didn’t work out for them, so…?” Because of his demise in October 2015, I couldn’t disagree more. We are still a story of success. My mindset, though painful still at times, is we were able to celebrate the victories–together.
Book me for your next event and allow me to share the inspiring story that gives hope for the heart.
