Imperfect Heart Jeff Holden

In this episode, I attempt to reveal some lesser known truths of myocardial bridges as I unravel the complexity of heart-related symptoms that often go misdiagnosed. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the disparity between the prevalence of this condition and the surprisingly low number of patients who receive accurate diagnoses. Did you know one-in-four of us is likely to have a myocardial bridge? How many people may actually be dying as a result of an undiagnosed bridge? Amidst the statistics that paint heart disease as the leading cause of death, I'll shed some light on the silent battles many face with undiagnosed chest pain, shortness of breath, and the emotional toll of not knowing. This episode is meant to outline and guide those affected or suffering from chest pain or shortness of breath or chronic fatigue towards recognizing the proper signs and advocating for themselves in a healthcare landscape that can sometimes overlook such crucial ailments.



With options ranging from traditional sternotomy to state-of-the-art robotic surgery for "unroofing" a myocardial bridge, guests have shared their personal anecdotes of navigating these decisions and the life-changing moments post-surgery. With myself included, we're all testament to the fact that the surgery does benefit us and it needs to be more accessible for those in need. Let the "cycle to diagnosis" support you in your journey giving you a list of action items that should lead you to your resolution of the condition or at the very least a proper diagnosis of your condition. I have no doubt proper diagnosis of a myocardial bridge saves lives through the ripple effect of heightened recognition and medical progress.

Join me as I sit down with Kathy Hoseth, a remarkable woman with a compelling story of heart health struggles and self-advocacy. From her early childhood days experiencing unexplained chest pains to the complex journey of navigating the healthcare system as an adult, Kathy's narrative is a testament to resilience. She candidly shares the dismissive attitudes of medical professionals she encountered and how she persisted in the search for a diagnosis, shedding light on the crucial need for patients to listen to their bodies and advocate for their health.



As her tale unfolds, she reveals the discovery of a myocardial bridge that was overlooked for years. Her story takes a hopeful turn with the identification of her condition, leading to the "unroofing" surgery that set her on a path to recovery. This episode gives you a front-row seat to the inspiring account of Kathy's medical journey, her relentless pursuit of answers, and the life-changing operation that ultimately improved her quality of life. We explore the significant role of having a supportive medical team and the importance of being heard when it comes to one's health. A staunch reminder that to be heard, one needs to speak up and in the case of myocardial bridges, the voice needs to be, not only spoken loudly, but confirmed it was heard.



Kathy's experience is more than just a medical case; it's a narrative that underscores the power of patient advocacy and the difference it can make. As she shares her post-surgery life and the joys of being a grandmother of eight, Kathy's story serves as an encouragement to anyone facing health challenges. Her contributions to raising awareness are invaluable, reminding us all to never overlook symptoms and to push for timely intervention. This is a heartwarming episode that celebrates Kathy's journey, the surgical progress to correct a myocardial bridge and the collective power of shared experiences in healing and recovery.

Embark on a mission dirven purpose with Jed Baker, as he narrates his battle with enigmatic health symptoms, culminating in the pivotal uncovering of a myocardial bridge—an anomaly that remained undiagnosed for an agonizing duration. This episode threads through Jed's encounters with the labyrinth that is modern healthcare, where he met his "surgery sisters," Kaylin Kellert and Liane Aigner, and concurrently, they braved parallel surgeries. Through his voice, learn of multiple medical opinions, the delicate decision-making in cardiac care, and the profound importance of being an informed and proactive patient.



With clarity and vulnerability, Jed opens up about his decision to pursue heart surgery over less invasive treatments, guided by Dr. Theodoris Kofidis. His pursuit of multiple medical opinions illuminates the complexities of cardiac treatments and the lifesaving power of perseverance. As we follow his journey, Jed's recovery unfolds as a testament to resilience, offering a beacon of hope to those navigating similar health challenges. His insights into the emotional and physical rigors of heart surgery provide invaluable guidance for those at the crossroads of such weighty medical decisions.



Concluding with a powerful reflection on the role of hope in confronting health adversities, we draw parallels with Mark Durand's research on parental hope and the impact of community support in fostering optimism. Jed's story is more than a medical case study; it’s a narrative of human tenacity and the shared quest for healing. His candid discussion not only educates but also inspires, emphasizing the necessity of hope, community, and informed choice when facing the daunting prospect of heart surgery.



To learn more about Jed, you can visit his website -  https://www.socialskillstrainingproject.com/about



You can see more of Jeds drumming and performance on the FB page: https://www.facebook.com/BigTrainSoul/videos/2052865561543110/?extid=CL-UNK-UNK-UNK-IOS_GK0T-GK1C&ref=sharing&mibextid=w8EBqM



Be sure to visit "Imperfect Heart" on YouTube   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfqomNr--Rc&list=PLv9422orflyUbG-w1iVfzbzW9LIcgX_Eo    if you would like to see the guests.



To learn more about Myocardial Bridges visit  https://www.myimperfectheart.com/

Have you ever marveled at the precision of robotic cardiac surgery or pondered the moral complexities hidden behind the robot's arm? Dr. Guy, a cardiac surgeon with a unique military background, joins us for a compelling exploration of this life-saving medical discipline, blending his battlefield-honed skills in teamwork and strategic thinking with the meticulous demands of heart surgery. We venture into the nuances of robotic vs. traditional sternotomy in unroofing procedures, weigh the critical balance between patient survival and health resolution, and unwrap the layers of decision-making that guide the evolution of medical practice.



Our journey through the heart's intricacies doesn't stop at the operating table. Dr. Guy opens up about the rigorous diagnostic process that informs the path to surgery, sharing candid reflections on the ethical tension between alleviating patient suffering and avoiding unnecessary risks. The challenge of accurate diagnosis and the sobering fact that medical science isn't infallible are laid bare, illustrating a surgeon's commitment to ethical practice and the human side of medicine that's driven by a desire to heal, not just to operate.



As we close, the conversation takes a turn towards the personal, revealing how Dr. Guy's own leisure pursuits provide respite from the operating room's intensity. We also shine a light on the collaborative efforts at the Georgia Heart Institute and the importance of patient-driven care. Our discussion culminates in a tribute to the altruism pervading the medical field where patient empowerment and informed dialogue stand as the cornerstones of quality healthcare.



For more information visit Georgia Heart Institute by visiting www.NGHS.com



You can also call Dr. Guy @ 770-219-7099



To learn more about myocardial bridges or review prior episodes, visit www.myimperfectheart.com

Join me as I embark on a heartfelt journey with my guest Louis Merlin, who bravely shares his personal struggle with his myocardial bridge—a condition we know is often overlooked or mistakenly dismissed as benign. Louis opens up about the frightening onset of symptoms like chest pain and dizziness, which led to a maze of ER visits and the haunting suggestion that it was all just anxiety. Despite inconclusive test results, the true nature of his symptoms remained a mystery until the exertion in 2022 made the connection to his heart condition undeniable.



We'll navigate the complex and often misunderstood world of chest pain diagnosis. We'll also take a closer look at one patient's distressing quest for answers, starting with vague aches and escalating to an emergency collapse. The frustration of inconclusive traditional tests is palpable, as we discuss the elusive diagnosis that spans potential issues like vasospasms and microvascular disease. This conversation underscores the importance of perseverance and the emotional toll of seeking multiple medical opinions when dealing with mysterious cardiac symptoms.



Hear about the transformative decision to pursue surgery abroad in Greece with Dr. Theodoros Kofidis, as we delve into the life-changing choice made in the face of debilitating symptoms and rejection in the states. Our discussion reveals the practicalities and emotional considerations of seeking treatment overseas, the supportive care at St. Lukes Hospital, and the challenges of recovery. Louis leaves us with an empowering reminder of the importance of self-advocacy and the strength found in support groups, as we celebrate the courage and shared experiences within our community, including his inspiring return to an active lifestyle.



St. Lukes Hospital with Dr. Kofidis



Tkofidis@hotmail.de  (Professor Kofidis email)

Discover the power of perseverance and the importance of advocating for your own health as we share Kelly's captivating story, an individual who transformed her struggle with undiagnosed heart issues into a journey of self-discovery and medical triumph. At the young age of 13, Kelly's life took a dramatic turn in a karate class when she first experienced symptoms that would lead her on a path filled with challenges, misdiagnoses, and a relentless pursuit for answers. Her experiences shed light on the complexities of navigating the healthcare system and the courage it takes to stand up for oneself when faced with skepticism from professionals who should be allies.



Feel the frustration and eventual elation as Kelly, undeterred by failed multiple ablasions, discovers and then connects with the expertise at Stanford to tackle her condition head-on. Her story is not just about the physical ailment of supraventricular tachycardia and a myocardial bridge but also about the emotional battle with it all, including the insurance companies, the exhausting appeals, and the sweet success of validation. Kelly's journey highlights the critical role of patient advocacy and the difference it can make in receiving proper care, offering hope and guidance for those who may find themselves in similar, overwhelming situations.



Her constant and consistent belief in her faith and her fortitude, would yield incredible transformation from living with decades of pain to now embracing an active lifestyle post-unroofing surgery. Her narrative not only provides solace but also inspires; there is hope if you're suffering from a myocardial bridge and with the right support and determination, a quality life after years of furstration, is more than just possible—it's within reach.



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For more information, visit www.myimperfectheart.com. If you would like to participate and share your story on the program, you can email me at jeff@hearmenowstudio.com.  If you would like to ask a question and have it played answered on the program, you can leave me an audio message via DM on the facebook group page. Thank you.