- Aortic aneurysm
- Interviews
Harrys's interview
How did all start?
Having a play hard work hard ethic. Not managing my hypertension. Smoking & drinking too much.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
I knew I had I high BP before my AAA for years. The rest is history & too late to change .
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
Hypertension.
Aortic aneurysm.
Vocal cord repair.
Arrhythmia x 3.
Back pain through nerve damage.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Counselling,
Self belief,
Can do attitude,
Family & friends,
Focus on the future,
Work smarter not harder.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Uncertainty &
Pain control.
Level of fitness, everything takes longer.
Shortness of breath &
Medication control
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
I dont go out as often & subsequently dont see my friends as often.
Its been tough on my wife who is younger than me , but she has stood by me through thick & thin.
What things have you stopped doing?
Smoking,
Exercise, (walk only),
Dancing,
Limited alcohol consumption,
Going out,
Now reducing work load & looking at retirement .
What do you think about the future?
Optimistic. We still have a great life. I know I have another opp pending to replace my valve. But life has been good. I have a wonderful family, from both sides, & a loving, caring wife. Whats not to like.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
The 70s & 80s were super. I worked hard In the 90s, paid off my mortgage before I was 30 & had a great life. Work hard, play hard attitude & paid the price.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Travel more. Be more active with my wife. Enjoy life to its fullest without having to think condition first.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Happy go lucky.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Never give up. Fight for what you have. Overcome any challenges you face, as you never know what tomorrow will bring. Good luck to all
