Road to Recovery

Huge answer to prayer!

Well the electro physiology study was conducted yesterday. The procedure was long and rough. I was on the table for 4 hours with an additional recovery of 4 hours in the cardiology center. They found out what has been causing my heart problems for the past few years and were able to fix it! I have (had!) Atrioventricular Nodal Reentry Tachycardia (AVNRT)

Here enters wikipedia:

AVNRT occurs when a reentry circuit forms within or just next to the atrioventricular node. The circuit usually involves two anatomical pathways: the fast pathway and the slow pathway, which are both in the right atrium. The slow pathway (which is usually targeted for ablation) is located inferiorly and slightly posterior to the AV node, often following the anterior margin of the coronary sinus. The fast pathway is usually located just superior and posterior to the AV node. These pathways are formed from tissue that behaves very much like the AV node, and some authors regard them as part of the AV node.

So, during the study, the EP Cardiologist used catheters to put my heart in distress (increasing and decreasing my heart rate) to 'recreate' what happened when I passed out running and when I feel my heart skip a beat. She was able to recreate it and find the nerve that is messing up the electric circuitry and ablate (freeze) it. Then she tried to recreate the issue again and my heart acted normally (yay!) and concluded that the ablation did fix the problem. Only time will tell if AVNRT is the only problem I had; but we believe and hope so. There is also always a chance that the nerves that were ablated can grow back, but not for a while, if ever.

Recovery is going to take some time. Yesterday was miserable, and the car ride home was worse. I am on some heavy drugs to manage the pain I'm feeling. I am on bed rest for 2 days and then have a follow up appointment early next week with the EP. As long as I don't have any complications (swelling, fever, etc) and I follow the rules to get back to normal I should be fine by Christmas.

I can't begin to explain to you how happy and relieved I am. Having something wrong with you that you can feel but not physically show is frustrating. I know a lot of people doubted that anything was wrong with me and I even started to believe (when I wasn't having symptoms) that this was somewhat in my head. And to know that the issue is fixed...I'm just so thankful to God that I can go back to my life.

Thank you everyone for all your support, love, care, and concern. I have definitely felt every thought, prayer, and well wish.

I will post once again after my follow-up and then hopefully go back to my normal, crazy triathlon training blog. I love you all and Happy Holidays!

Date is set

There is nothing too new to report other than the date has been set for the procedure.

December 14th, I will be having an Electro Physiology Study done as well as get an implanted loop monitor called an ICM (internal cardiac monitor). The EP study is accomplished while I am awake by taking a catheter and stimulating my heart to 'recreate' what happened in October. If the Dr is able to figure out what the problem is, and it's fixable, they can correct it on the spot. If the study is normal (or even if it's not) I'll get the ICM implanted soon there after. I seriously hope I'm not awake for that! EP Studies are sometimes outpatient but depending on what I done I could be kept overnight for observation. I am very nervous and scared but ready to figure out what is going on.

Mom is coming into town to drive me to and from the hospital. Bo was able to change his flight to be there when I'm in recovery. I'm so thankful for everyones thoughts, prayers and well wishes. Hopefully this is an easy fix.

So far my deployment for March is still on the table even with the device in my chest. I'll give updates on that as the time gets closer.

Progress but no answers just yet...

Yesterday, I went to the medical center to see yet another cardiologist, as well as an Electro Physiologist (EP). I felt better much after talking to them, than I have thus far in this fickle process. After re-sharing my medical history and any pertenient family medical history, I was educated by the EP about what the next steps are.
I have to wear a heart monitor for a week or two. It's basically a small cell phone with wires that will record my heart beat and hopefully pick up any abnormal arrythmias that might give us a clue as to what is going on with me. I'll be traveling a bit in the next week so I am unable to carry it on-to the airplance because of how sketchy it could look in a carry-on baggage or with me wearing it.
If the heart monitor does pick up some abnormalities, there is a slight chance that we can 'fix' the issue without having an EP study done (the procedure mentioned last blog). If it doesn't or maybe if it does I'll have the EP study done, hopefully, before Christmas.
There is another chance, if the EP study does not allow us to correct whatever issue I might have, that I will have to have a diagnostic device inserted into my chest (for what could be up to 3 years) to monitor my heart beat. This device called an ICM (Insertable Cardiac Monitor) is the size of a thumb drive and would be placed about where a pacemaker would go. Supposedly it's not a big deal and I can even deploy with one.
As of now my deployment for early spring is still on the books. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers, as we hope that my arrythmia is able to be recorded, thus speeding up the diagnosis and and getting this taken care of.

I was very happy that I was able to lead PT today, although I had to stop in the middle of my class and watch because I became extremely dizzy. I was able to rejoin. It's small steps but it's good to be able to do something to exercise. I am still unable to drive and do too much working out which is driving me crazy and really stressing me out.

Thank you everyone for your care and concern. Hopefully this is just a minor speed bump that will be gone for good very soon.

The one thing a triathlete never wants to hear...

No strenuous exercise, no driving, no stress; until we figure out what's wrong. I'm terrified, I really can't find any other word to describe it. About 2 years ago, I noticed that I occasionally had heart palpatations. I was worried so I went to my doctor and a cardiologist and was told they were normal and probably more pronounced in me because I put alot of strain on my heart as an endurance athlete. It was something I would have to, 'live with.' I had one incident in those 2 years where I had to stop a race. It was my first half-iron distance triathlon. While I was on the bike my heart was going crazy 'skipping beats.' Luckily, my mom, who is a Nurse Praticioner and also has heart issues, recognized the symptoms right away and convinced me I needed to stop the race. I was devastated. I was able to do a half-iron 2 months later with no heart trouble, so we assumed it was an isolated incident.
About a month ago, I was in training for work in Montgomery, Alabama. I had been training for the Marine Corps Marathon. On Tuesday, I had run 18 miles for training. On Friday, my class had to do a PT challenge that consisted of 1 min of push ups, 1 min of sit ups and a 5k run. I was pretty excited about it because I was sure I would do well. I did 60 pushups, 55 sit ups and started out on the run. The day was gorgeous, I had made sure to hydrate and was ready to do well. A mile into the run my heart started palpating (skipping beats) and I was a bit concerned so after the second palpation I decided to slow down. As I was slowing down and moving to the grassy area I passed out. I remember falling and hitting the ground. The rest was a whirlwind. I went to the clinic where I had an EKG (normal results). The PA that saw me believed that I possible have more of an 'electrical' issue than a 'structural' issue.
Flashforward to this past week. I went to my Dr at work and he referred me to the Cardiologist. The Cardiologist spent 2.5 hours with me yesterday going over my entire history, doing an EKG and other procedures. I am being sent to an Electo Physiologist at Bethesda Walter Reed Medical Center next Tuesday to start a new course of action. Which could include a minimal invasive procedure on my heart that could correct my issue for life! I'll post when I know what is going on.
The bottom line is I'm OK and I will be OK. I'm very shaken and rattled. It's a frightening thing when you hit the ground without any control at all. I'm devestated that I cannot run or do triathlons at the moment. I've been instructed that if I can't talk while I'm exercising then I can do it. If anyone knows how to talk while swimming let me know!

One, Two, Three...Break!

Quick recap of March and April Races:

March 19th- Shamrock 8k. I really wanted to do the half-marathon, but it was sold out. I ran this race with my 'bro-in-law' Brian. We didn't do too badly. 48 mins. Especially considering we walked and trotted the first 3-4 mins because of all the slow runners and walkers in front of us. Seriously people, just because you want to run a 9:00/mi pace doesn't mean you are capable and should post that on your entry. I think if you want to be in the 1st or 2nd corral you need to have posted a qualifing time for a 5k race in the last 6 months. My opinion. Regardless, The Shamrock is the race Virginia Beach is best know for. Where else can you cross the finish line and are handed a Yuengling and a hot bowl of Irish Stew?! Recommendation: make friends with the beer-tenders and you can easily get more than your allotted 3. Just make sure you have a driver (Thanks Dad!) :O) After our race was over, Lerici and Brian's son did the Operation Smile Final Mile. This is such a neat idea. Trevor is 6 years old and he had to run 25.2 miles on his own time (and at school) leading up to the race. He then got to run the final mile of the actual Shamrock Marathon to help raise money for the charity. He did VERY well (8 or 9 min mile!) GO TREVOR!

April 10th- Flying Pirate Half-Marathon in OBX, NC. My friend Cassie and I were so excited about this race. Granted, we didn't train as hard as we could have, but we were ready to have tons of fun pushing her almost 1 year old daughter along the course. We had our pink and black outfits set, a pink 'Pirate Princess flag' for the baby jogger, the baby had a pink pacifier with a black skull and crossbones on it, and pink arm warmers. When we arrived in OBX, we went straight to registration and check in, it was at this moment our spirits were crushed! We were informed that no joggers were allowed on the course! After going back and forth about what to do, we decided to map our own course, stopping midway to get our swag at the finish line, and call it a day. Instead of running 13.1 we clocked in at 14.5 (14.75 if you count the walk back to the cabin to get the truck. Pretty impressive. Even though we were upset that they didn't let us run (evidently we missed that on the website), the staff of the Flying Pirate were pretty cool in still letting us get all the 'finishers' swag. I highly recommend this race and will most likely do it again someday!


And here's the break. I decided to sign up for the Kinetic Sprint about a month or two ago with 2 guys from work. I was getting very excited about this sprint much like the one eariler this year in San Diego. I was hoping for a PR. Well flash forward (backward?) to this past Wednesday and again my hopes were shattered...quite literally. I had the opportunity to be at home midday for lunch and I decided to take Tater for a quick 30min run, as we have done time and time again. About a min and a half into running, something happened. I really don't know the exact cause because it happened so fast. I was running and then I was on the ground face first with Tater attempting to sprint off with the leash. Now everyone that knows Tater, knows she is a bit skiddish. I truthfully don't know if I tripped and scared her, causing the fall. Or if she tripped me and pulled me down when she freaked out. Either way I ended up with 2 skinned knees, a skinned shoulder, skinned palms, and a fractured and jammed finger. I tell you I can't win.

By the time Sunday rolled around, I was still in alot of pain. My left knee was looking infected and I could barely move it. Against what my heart was telling me, I had to listen to my brain and withdraw. It was a gorgeous race day and my co-workers did great on their first triathlon. I guess you can say I was coach for a day. And even with the disappointment of not racing, I enjoyed being 'coach.' So maybe this was good for me to see that I would be a good trainer someday.

It's now Monday, and just like every post race day, I am onthe internet searching for the next perfect event. I'm also trying to cut some inches/weight so I'm in full Herbalife mode. I'm a Herbalife distrubitor and I LOVE their products. It has helped me cut weight in the past to get ready for race (and bikini) season. If you want a line of products that are easy to use and nutritional...just talk to me or check out my site at www.shopherbalife.com/frenchie

New Season

So, trialthon season is starting back up. Training is getting into full swing.  I have actually already competed in one race thus far.  The UCSD Tritonman on Mission Bay in Southern California.  I was actually very excited about this race, my training was going well and I was hoping to set a sprint PR.  And then a week before the race I got sick, the kind of sick that knocks you on your butt for 48hrs and you're so weak you can barely stand.  I was MISERABLE.  I finally was over the cold on Friday, which I spent the majority of traveling to the left coast. Saturday was a bit rainy so I picked up my rental bike and got a very short familiarization ride in.  Sunday, I showed up at the race site fairly early.  It was raining and mildly cold.  Good thing I had very little cold gear, which is a perfect mix for someone who just got over a bad cold.  To my slight disappointment the swim was cancelled, which is my strongest event.  They turned the race into a duathlon (run, bike, run).  I was disappointed because normally the swim gets me out in front of even some of the strongest competetors on the bike so I can finish strong.  After a broken foot last year, my run is not exactly where I would like it. 

The race started out strong for me, I was making about a 9:20 pace on the 2 miles out.  The bike went well for the first 2 loops and the third and final loop I was pummled with rain and pretty nasty wind gusts. The final leg of the race was the same run as the beginning, with the exception that one of the miles was now in 2-3in of mud.  I finished with a 1h22m, which should have put me in for 3rd place but alas my timing chip wasn't counted and I went back to my boyfriend's soggy, tired, and slight dirty.  Regardless of all the negative points, it felt good to finally get my feet back into the sport.  After only doing a relay in Nov, it was the first multisport event I have gotten to compete in since April 2010. 

My next race is a 8k run this Saturday with some close friends down in Virginia Beach.  I'm pretty excited about it.  The weather is supposed to cooperate and be a sunny 60 degrees.  I am very much looking forward to running on the beach. 

Curve Balls

The old saying "Sometimes thing work out for the best" is not really how I was feeling the last week.  I do not like to withdraw from my races.  Probably the reason why I didn't post something immediately after is because  I beat myself up for about a week.  I am thankful, however, of my amazing support system, who know just what to say when I'm down on myself.  It might take me a few days to really appreciate their advice and support, but I do appreciate it.  My next race is Silverman Op Rebound relay, I'm going to do the swim.  1.2 miles is a lot shorter than my swim workouts so I should...should i say...do really well.

I just got back from Nebraska.  Lincoln to be exact, for a wedding.  No, I do not usually 'drop by' Nebraska, although in the summer, it's not too bad of a place to get away to.  This trip also served as an opportunity for a really close group of my college friends to have a mini reunion.  Not that it was needed this time, the wedding was amazing and well organized, but these friends can make any normal activity down right spectacular.  Just add alcohol.

Currently I find myself sitting in the middle of JFK airport.  Let rant begin: HERE.  Holy freaking Moses!  This has to be the most disgusting airport ... trash everywhere, ZERO organization of the seating (which would allow more seats to be available),  zero healthy eating options, and employees with the 'i don't give a hoot attitude.'  I feel like I need a shower after sitting in here for a minute, unfortunately I have another HOUR!  I am falling into some other conclusions here as well.  For the most part I don't mind people; I try to be friendly and even to the most disgruntled citizen, I usually get some sort of positive response back.  No one likes layovers, no one likes the boarding process, no one likes delays, and no one likes their personal space invaded.  I don't think it's too much to ask that I have a place to sit (I'll even sit on the floor if it's clean!) and a CLEAN FRICKIN BATHROOM.  I felt like I was walking into a nuclear fall out zone.  The LADIES bathroom was....ugh...I don't have words.  People evidently turn barbaric and do not remember how to flush or keep the stall 'clean'.  It was a miracle that there was toilet paper...no paper towels.  But the worst was that when I walked in, there was a toddler sitting in a stroller with a luggage...ALONE.  When I asked, "Um, whose child is this?"  Some lady in a STALL said she was hers!  Are you freaking kidding me!?  Myself and another mother kindly explained to her the gravity of leaving your child out of view...and I went on my way.  Next I find myself in a Wendy's line, I'm not going to bother with the 'no healthy food rant', and what do I see...  the same toddler...ALONE...sitting in the middle of the airport while the mom ordered food.  What is wrong with people.  I decided it was best for me not to get arrested for screaming at someone for being stupid, and quietly watched the little girl until her mother decided she was worth the attention.

(jumps off soapbox)

The only good thing about the next 12 hours is at the end of it, I will find myself in the UK!  I'm visiting some close friends that I haven't seen in a couple years.  We are even going to take some time to visit Paris.  I have been to neither.  This much needed vacation is going to be life changing, at least that is what I'm told when I mention to anyone that I'm going to Paris.  What I do know is when I get back I'll be 10 days away from another trip across the US to see a man who working to sweep a non-committal, un-trusting, spastic, and passionately flighty girl off her conservatively hippie feet.  Try to say that five times fast. ;O)

Now on to life...