I spent 10 years in the Military, and exercise was part of the daily routine, but that all changed when I left the Military. I became comfortable with life. Years went by, and I finally woke up and didn’t like what I saw when I looked in the mirror, so exercise and healthy eating habits became part of my life.
Fast forward to 2022. We were in Punta Cana, our first full day on the resort. I went in the pool to test out my scuba diving gear in preparation for a dive the next day. Walking back to drop off my weights, I had an uncomfortable feeling in my chest, but I put it down to not diving for six months. The discomfort continued, and then it was like a knife was driven into my chest. I had no clue what was happening, but I was experiencing a heart attack! Three stents later at a hospital in Santo Domingo, a hotel stay, and we were allowed to return home 10 days post-procedure.
I wanted to do the Army Run in 2022, but my head wasn’t in it. I felt fragile, afraid to do anything lest it trigger another heart attack, so the opportunity passed me by. I made the decision to go for it this year, 2023, and wanted to make a splash, so I signed up the Sergeant Major’s Challenge. I am thrilled my granddaughter will be joining me for the 5K portion! I’ll be wearing an old school rucksack and carrying the C&E branch flag for all to see.