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As we embrace a new year, there is no better time to reflect on what we’ve endured the past twelve months, give gratitude for what we have, and look forward to the future with hope and resilience.
Last year was a difficult year for all. Luckily, tumultuous times have a way of strengthening us and revealing to us all of the amazing things we have in our lives that we must be thankful for. As a new year unfolds, I recall patients I have cared for and how they have touched my life. A young woman, only 39 years old, had suffered a grave tearing of her aorta (the largest artery in the body) and she had come to seek my advice. This is a profoundly serious event that would leave most in shambles, but she would always beam with joy whenever I’d see her. Despite her condition, and her multiple restrictions on activities, she was always so thankful for all of her blessings and swore she’d never let her disease define her.
This past year, despite all the hardships that it brought, I think of that patient, and come to realize that this past year has also shed light on all of the things we can be grateful for. Of course, our family and friends with their unwavering support, and who comfort us in grandiose ways or through small gestures; the healthcare workers and frontline personnel that have perhaps cared for you or a loved one, but most importantly, we must consider our health. In a world that can seem out of control at times, one thing is for sure, our health is the only thing we can have some control over.
As we celebrate American Heart Month in February, we need to consider how COVID-19 can affect our heart health. If you, or someone you know, has tested positive for the virus, there is a wide spectrum of cardiac issues that could have unfortunately come along with it. Whether it was a grave cardiac complication such as heart failure or a heart attack, or more mild lingering cardiac effects such as a racing heartbeat weeks after the fact, please seek out a cardiologist, we are always here to help.
February is also a month to celebrate love in all forms, and what better way to show yourself some love this year than to prioritize your health? Focus on your mental wellbeing, exercise, eat healthy and make this new year about a healthier you. I am confident that this renewed sense of wellbeing and health will propel us all to take on this new year with strength, hope, and most importantly love.
