Survived a Massive Heart Attack

Hello everyone, just a little news on what I’ve been up to.
 
On July 18th, 2025, after an intensive workout at the gym, I had a massive heart attack.
 
I didn't know it at first, I just thought it was a bad episode of indigestion as I've experienced similar but lesser bouts in the past. I didn't think it was necessary to go into the hospital even after my wife suggested I go. (I'm stubborn.) However, after experiencing pain most of the night and still experiencing pain in the morning, and after my wife telling me to go, I complied.
 
I drove myself to the Lakeshore General hospital Saturday morning, July 19th, parked where it was free to park (two blocks away) and walked into emergency, where they tested and confirmed that I had a heart attack the night before.
 
They scheduled me for an angiogram at the Royal Vic on Monday (July 21st, 2025) where I was given the news that I have heart disease and that 6 arteries in the heart were blocked (70 to 90% on four arteries and two arteries that were 90 to 99% blocked)
 
It’s quite an awakening moment to receive this kind of news, especially after taking care of my health in diet and exercise.
 
Before my heart attack, I had been working out 3 times a week so my physical strength was at its peak. I don't smoke, or drink alcohol anymore. I gave them up in 2005 so I faced this trial in the best shape I could be in.
 
Heart disease runs in my family. My brother died of it at age 45 (Heavy smoker), my father had it (heavy smoker and drinker who quit both) but died of liver cancer at 63. Several of my aunts and uncles on my father’s side also died young...one as young as 33 and he didn't smoke or drink.
 
No one knows when they are going to go, but as an Irishman, I can tell you that I was determined to live and so I battled this devil right to the end...I don't like to lose, which is why my life's trophy case is filled with wins.
 
For those who would like to know; I did not take the mRNA shot. Not one; which is why I am still alive. However, if I had of stayed home that Saturday in July, I might not be alive right now. Don’t procrastinate when something doesn’t feel right, go to the hospital.
 
I went into Surgery at the Royal Victoria hospital for a quadruple bypass on August 1st. I then spent August 1st to August 4th in the ICU with a gazillion tubes coming out of me. However, their task is to get you on your feet as soon as possible.
 
With help, (A nurse and orderly) I was on my feet once on August 2nd, and 4 times on August 3rd. By August 4th I didn't need help to stand or walk.
 
From August 2nd onwards, tubes and IV’s began to be removed. By August 5th, I was tube free and out of the Intensive Care Unit! I was moved to another unit where I had my first physio on August 5th.
 
Getting me on my feet under my own power and being able to take care of myself was the next step. I walked about 60 meters on my own without a walker, and climbed up and down 48 steps. (my target was the 40 steps I needed to climb to get to my apartment). I was determined to get home.
 
I was released from the hospital on August 6th, 2025 at 7:00 pm after a complete review and check.

While in the Lakeshore General and Royal Victoria hospitals, I was in the best care a patient could ever have. The number of people that helped me through this difficult time at the hospital is unbelievable. The team of doctors and nurses were absolutely outstanding. It's a whole other world that I won't forget from the doctors, nurses, technicians, orderlies, and all the support staff that keeps this hospital running. Every job is so important to keep a hospital running; I just don't know how they do it, but they do, and with a smile.

Yesterday, August 12th, I had 180 staples removed from my arm, leg and chest. My zippers are now gone.
 
The next stage is a three-month battle to get back to health with a full recovery. I love a challenge. So, I’ve grasped onto my determination with both hands. Piece of cake.
 
I now have more time to write, since I no longer have a full-time job. So, you will see more blog posts, poems and more books from me as I jump back into writing. Have a good week everyone!