I consider myself to be in average health. Whatever that means. I’m certainly not a role model, but neither am I sickly. Most of my friends are more athletic and active than I am, but I’m active too–not as consistently as I should or would like to be, though.

A year and a half ago I had a frightening heart palpitation that lasted for several minutes–a suddenly beginning rapid heart rate that was so fast it felt like one long continuous flutter. It was awful. After 5 months and a few doctors trying to figure out what it was, my cardiologist (since when did I have a cardiologist?) said it was likely that I had PAT: Paroxysmal Atrial Tachycardia (a heart palpitation that starts and stops suddenly, with a rapid steady beat, a kind of PVST). More invasive procedures would be required to more assuredly diagnose it, so we opted out of those.

I began taking a very low dose of a common medication (one that has been on the market for a long time and has a proven record for safety) to prevent these tachycardia episodes. So far it has worked very well, and has relieved a lot of anxiety. Also, it has slowed down my metabolism, I have gained some weight (not terribly bad, but extra pounds that aren’t healthy for me), and it has mellowed me out so that my energy level is on a very moderate even keel. I no longer get the bursts of energy that I once had. Also, I have to admit to some major anxiety I have been battling about physical exercise that raises my heart rate. I know it is okay and good for me to get cardiovascular exercise, and I do, but still–the tachycardia was so frightening that it is hard for me to not still feel anxiety about that. I’m working on that.

Anyway.

I cannot take this medication if I get pregnant. I can still get pregnant and have babies, but I will stop the medication and be carefully monitored, just as it should be. So, what do I expect to get from this healthy life style change? What of eating this somewhat strict way for 6 weeks and then incorporating more additional healthy foods into my diet, with increased exercise?

Dear friends' wedding, August 2009

I just want to be healthier. For me, for my children, for my family, my husband, and for the best case scenario for a future pregnancy. I certainly do not think this will cure my PAT, no sirree, but like I said: best case scenario for working within the situation I’ve found myself, and doing it healthy and fit.

When I think of my children, and growing old with Joe, when I think of being a grandmother–these are my biggest motivators of all. I want to be healthy! Fit! Vibrant! Strong! I want to feel good! I don’t want to be a burden on my family because I didn’t take care of my health the way I ought to have. Instead, I want to be a blessing to them, and while you don’t have to have perfect health to be a blessing in someone’s life, it sure helps. So, I want to do what I can to improve that aspect of my life.

Read My Inspiration, Part 1