11 days to Ironman CDA!

As my 4th Ironman race approaches and I now have my race (#1359) I'm probably more excited about this IM than any other!  This journey to IM and the white line in road has been completely different than the others due to my heart surgery.  I've had probably the most challenging year of my life, yet I feel fortunate as I've grown and learned from my experience.  I feel so blessed to be healthy again and able to participate again!  It feels like a 2nd chance and I'm truly greatful for the opportunity to further share my passion for fitness and coaching gift with others. 

One day after heart surgery. Wow, they really messed up my already big lips!

It took me along time to look at this picture as I was honestly scared I'd never be able to do all that I love to do again.  I've had a long road to IM CDA 2011, which involved heart surgery only 6.5 months ago.  As some of know I was told I would/should never swim, bike and run again back in July, which as you can imagine was not something I was willing to except.  Being active and challenging myself has always been a huge part of my life.  So, when my heart surgeon and cardiologist explained that replacing my mitral valve would allow me to be free to exercise again I felt a huge relief, although as with anything in life, there was no guarantee. 

My son Reece & I (3 days post surgery)

About 1.5 weeks after surgery I thought I was feeling better so I decided to walk/jog Turkey Trot with my son Reece, which went OK except I was in a world on pain for the week following.  It was another good lesson in patience, which is something I've always struggle with.  After that I spent the next 10 weeks not able to do much and the highlights of my days involved seeing my family, coaching/talking with athletes and walking to get the mail.  

By the end of January, I had passed all the follow up tests and I was told I could get back to light physical activity.  So,  I began by going to the pool.  I got in and soon realized I couldn't really use my right arm as I had been protecting it for months as this is where they made the incisions to do my surgery.  Tristin stood over the end of the pool worried that I going to sink as I swam about 500yds mostly with my left arm.  I remember thinking and telling her, "wow, I've got a long way to go."  She responded in her usually glass half full way and replied, "you now have as much time as you need."  She and Reece (my son) were definitely my rocks that pulled me through the dark days. 

I soon started to use the elliptical trainer/bike as I began with 15 min. and worked my way up from there.  I joined other Team Blaze athletes for Sunday groups runs and although I had lost all fitness I didn't forget how to run.  It was just great to be out there with everyone again.  All the athletes I coach truly inspired me more than they realize to want to get my fitness back!

In April, we went to Hawaii and it was an amazing trip training with our friends/teammates and showing them the place we love!  We spent a week on Oahu, which began with a practice triathlon with our old club Team Jet Hawaii  http://www.teamjethawaii.com/.  I was really excited to get out there and try to race again, however I learned another valuable lesson about patience during the practice triathlon.  I felt great swimming, solid on the bike and then I ran about 1.5 miles only to feel really dizzy with my heart rate way too high.  This really shook me mentally as I felt good, so why couldn't I just go out and race like before.  Probably because I had just had heart surgery 4 month before, so I spent the next few days just appreciating being able to workout with the athletes training for IM CDA.  Again Tristin, reminded me to be patient and enjoy being free to exercise.

It was during this week in Hawaii that I started thinking, "wouldn't it be cool if I could do IM CDA again this year?" I kept these thoughts to myself as I knew everyone would say, "you're crazy, wait until next year etc."

So, after wrestling in my mind with the idea and continuing to exercise I finally brought the idea up with my wife.  I didn't really know how she would respond as anyone that has done IM knows it's a huge family commitment and if you don't have support from family you shouldn't take on the journey.  She somewhat surprised me when she said, "you can do it, IF you take it easy." 

Now the question was could I do the IM and take it easy?  I felt confident that I could it as I had learned to be patient, so on May 12th I decide to sign up!  The only problem was I only had 6.5 weeks to train, however I had tons of motivation and no illusions of trying to go 10hrs.  My training has been great and I'm in much better shape than I was in April!

This journey to IM has been all about supporting others that have truly inspired and encouraged me through my recovery.  It's also about proving to myself and others to never give up!  As they say in IM, "anything is possible".

As I look forward with 10 days to go I feel calm and excited to be able to challenge myself and inspire others to realize life should be lived without limits.  If you want something and you're willing to put in the training, you can do it!

I look forward to joining/supporting the athletes I coach and fellow Team Blaze Spokane Triathlon Club members in their IM journey to the white line in the road.  Remember you're stronger than you think you are and you can do more than you think you can!  Enjoy the journey!

Thank you Tristin and Reece for supporting me!.

Thanks for reading

Chasing the New PR



Ironheart Classic Run



I've learned so much about life, faith, family and friends over the last year.  As many of you know last June my journey through life took an unexpected turn.  I had coached and trained with 20+ members of Team Blaze Spokane Triathlon Club for the Boise 70.3 Half Ironman.  I felt the training went great and I thought I was ready for that "great day" we all search for in triathlon when all your hard work comes together.  Unfortunately, my day didn't go as planned.  I make no excuses as when we train and race we hope for the best and sometimes things happen like strong winds or kidney stones in my case that we can't overcome.  It was during this race that my life and perspective about life truly changed.  While completing the run during  Boise 70.3 IM, I sudden began to feel a sharp pain in my side/lower back that didn't feel like a normal side stitch and continued to become more painful moving to my groin.  This was obviously not the way I had envisioned my day, however even though I was struggling I thought I should finish even though it was an hour slower than planned.  I learned at young age through my parents to always finished what you start, so I pressed on and finished albeit literally in shock. 


About a week later after returning to training I began to feel short of breathe and dizzy, which I ignored due to my competitive drive. I should have listened to the warning signs, however fortunately for me about a week later I started coughing uncontrollably and began to get dizzy again at Team Blaze practice tri.  I was frustrated and when I returned home I realize I was coughing up blood and my wife said,  "we're going to the ER!'  After arriving at the ER, again fortunately the ER Dr. noticed irregular EKG and I was admitted to the Sacred Heart Hospital.  I spent the next 3 days in the hospital as they tried to figure out what was wrong with me. 

Fast forward to Nov. 15th after months of frustration and fatigue, I was scheduled for mitral valve repair heart surgery, which ended up resulting in mitral valve replacement surgery.  I spent the next 10 weeks unable to do anything except recover and reflect on life.  I learned to have a greater appreciation for the gifts given to me.  It was during this process that I realized to be truly happy and fulfilled in my life I needed to share my gifts and inspire other to live an inspired life!

My recovery has been a long slow process and taught be to be patient.  I began my road back to "Chasing the New PR" at the end of February.  At this time I couldn't lift my right arm above my shoulder, so my comfort and stress reducer which had always been swimming was even challenging.  I began with 15 min. elliptical workouts, 20 min rides, floating/kicking/single arm swimming in the pool and before I knew it my fitness started to improve!  I then took a trip to Hawaii in April with family and friends training for Ironman CDA, on this trip I realized I had a long way to go and during the week I actually got stronger! 

Upon returning to Spokane, I started thinking about the possibility of racing again.  I was told last July to forget about triathlons and running races as it would be selfish of me to continue due to the risk.  Fortunately, I had been given the misdiagnosis of HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy).

I decided through this process to get involved with organizations like Ironheart Racing Team http://www.ironheartracing.com/  and Nick of Time Foundation http://nickoftimefoundation.org/ to raise awareness about heart health and screening in young people to prevent sudden cardiac arrest. 

On May 21st, decided to participate in my first race since heart surgery to support these awesome organization and test my fitness.  I decided to run the 4 miler, although after recently deciding to sign up for IM CDA knew I needed to run longer than 4 miles.  So, began the day with a longer than normal warm up of 4 miles, which basically involved running the course.  I thought I could comfortable run 7 min. pace and actually didn't even wear my Garmin, so I would have no idea of my pace.  I decided to run by feel considering I was in fact "Chasing the New PR!"  I was pleasantly surprised to be running with the faster group, so I figured I must be doing OK!  After I reached the 2 mile turn around I realized they were all running the 8 miler, so I was in 1st place.  When started heading back all the other runners were cheering me on including my wife (Tristin running) and son (Reece riding his bike).  As ran back I too encouraged other runners in return although when I reached mile 3 mile I was getting tired and mustered only a wave.  It had been almost 1 year since I'd felt that deep in your gut burning feeling of knowing your pushing it!  I was trying to focus on turnover and breathing while not getting caught.  As I approached about 1/2 mile to go I looked back and saw another guy trying to run me down, so my competitive juices kicked and I decided if I put a surge on thinking I could maybe trick him into thinking I wasn't tired.  (Oh the mental games we play when we're tired!)  When I could see the finish I looked back and realized I was going to run a solid first race back at 6:20 pace and win the first running race of my life!  As I told a fellow Team Blaze member recently, when you win or PR you cherish it as we can't control who shows up instead we can only control our own training and effort. 

It really felt great to be chasing the new PR!  Now I need to keep the fire burning as I only have 5 weeks to IM CDA and I'm excited to truly enjoy the journey!

Thank you to my family and co-workers at Alere that came out today to support this awesome event.  Great job David Watkins for putting on a great first event with the Ironheart Classic http://ironheartracing.com/ironheart-classic/.  Our family enjoyed our trip!

Thanks for reading!  Remember to enjoy the journey and live an inspired life!

Balanced Life Recovery

Life can get busy sometimes and I can't believe it's been over a month since my last blog post. I continue to feel blessed to have so many wonderful people in my life and feel like life is finally returning to a balanced state of normal.

I've recently had some great adventures with family and friends!  We took an trip to Oahu, Hawaii in April as a family with friends in our Team Blaze Spokane Triathlon Club joining us for an awesome vacation!  We were able to do all the things I love which include: exercise, laugh and spend quality time together in paradise!

Each morning we got up early and I worked out with some of the athletes I coach.  It was fun to be out there again training with others and enjoying the warm weather!  It was during this week in Hawaii that I started to feel the my fitness and health was finally returning after heart surgery. During the week I regained motivation to exercise as I finally started to regain fitness and it didn't feel like a struggle! 

Reece & I sharing one of our favorite family activities going to the water park.  I'm amazed at how brave my little buddy can be!  Now that he continues to grow like a weed, he's tall enough to go on the scariest slides in the park!  He continues to keep Tristin & I on our toes and bring so much joy into our lives.  Being a parent as most of you know isn't easy, but kids can literally touch our heart like nothing else. 

Team Blaze bike training in Hawaii!  We had some great rides, laughs and life memories!

It was during this week I started to think maybe I could try to do IM CDA 2011? I kept this thought to myself for about a month, yet continued to feel something pulling toward the white line at the end of the IM 140.6 mile journey. I realize some people will say Scott/Coach Scott, you're crazy you just had heart surgery in November, so wait for next year. Yes, I know but....



Reece's Red Lion Soccer Team

I decided this Spring that my life wasn't busy enough, so I decided to coach Reece's soccer team as I wanted him to have positive experience with being part of a team!  The Red Lions are a fun group of 5-6 yr olds that had never played soccer before, however in the last 6 weeks the kids have really improved! Our focus is on having fun and learning that exercise can be fun, however they have been developing skills, scoring lots of goals and winning too! (oh wait, we're not suppose to keep score =)) This experience has once again taught me that in life by giving we shall receive joy in return.  Good times!



Tobin, Suzanne & I @ Race for the Cure 5K



 After we returned from Hawaii, my wife Tristin had organized a Team Blaze Race for the Cure Team!  We all know someone that has been impacted by cancer and recently this has unfortunately impacted the lives of our family and friends.  Tristin unfortunately got sick before the run with a bad cold, so I decide the night before to run the 5K in pink with one of the athletes I coach and show my support. 

Last weekend as we usually do, we tried to cram in family fun!  Reece had always talked about wanting to go fishing, so we signed up for Kids Fishing Day through WA Fish & Game.  As you can see by the photo Reece was super proud of his big catch!  I think the Rainbow Trout was at least 16-18" and 5 lbs, which will provide great memories and conversation for years!



(Norma my IM CDA 2011 race partner, Tristin & I )

Norma (an athlete I coach and inspiration), Tristin & I. At the end of June Norma will be one of the 18 athletes I'm coaching this year for IM CDA. I plan to complete the bike and run with her as it will her first IM and my 6 month anniversary of my heart surgery!

As I mentioned earlier in my blog post I've thought about participating in IM CDA 2011. Yes, I know some of you are thinking is Scott/Coach Scott crazy???? Well maybe..... however I was told last year I could never swim, bike and run again, so completing this IM for me is my way of saying life should be lived on our terms. For me this is another step in my life to feeling free to live and possibly inspire others along the way!

When you fill out a the IM race application they ask you serious of questions which really got me thinking about the "why?". So , here is my reasons for wanting to take on this 140.6 mile journey to the white line.

Significant Personal Achievements

Returning to full health and recovery after mitral valve replacement surgery in Nov. of 2010.

Why have you sought Ford Ironman Coeur d'Alene entry?

In 2010, I was told I could never swim, bike or run again due to an initial diagnosis of an enlarged heart and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy which fortunately was a misdiagnosis. I was however diagnosed with severe mitral valve prolapse and regurge. This required robotic heart surgery in Nov. of 2010 to replace my mitral valve with a mechanical St. Jude mitral valve and require that I take coumadin the rest of my life. The IM CDA 2011 will be about 6 months after surgery and reinforce to me that I'm living on my terms again. I want to inspire others to enjoy the journey through life, never give up and follow their dreams/passion for living! I feel blessed to be alive, healthy and inspire others to realize anything is possible!


Interesting facts about you

Father, husband, coach to 150 athletes 27 of which are racing IM CDA 2011!

Please share significant information relating to your Ford Ironman Coeur d'Alene training or participation

I had heart surgery on Nov.15th 2010, so I began this IM journey with zero fitness when I got clearance to start exercising again in February. As I began to exercise I couldn't even lift my right above my shoulder and running 1 mile was tough as I had lost all fitness, although I had some tough days I always remained optimistic that if I took the right approach I could return. Over next three months I became inspired by all the athletes I coach and decided I wanted to support and share the journey with them. So, on June 26th I'll be out there completing the IM journey to reach the white line in the road.
 It's been encouraging to see how the fitness has slowly come back as last year I was told to forget about my old life of endurance sports, which I refused to accept. I'm swimming as fast if not faster than before, although I've been really consistent and specific with swimming 3xweek. I really haven't biked that much 2x weekly (one interval/one longer aerobic ride), however two weeks ago I rode 60 windy miles averaging solid pace and HR. The running has FINALLY (test in patience) started to come around as I ran 6.5 mile @ 7:15 pace yesterday and recently ran 15 miles run @ 8 min. pace! 

The nice thing with doing IM this way is that it hasn't been hanging over me, plus I have no pressure to go faster than I should and end up having a suffering negative experience. Instead I can support other club members especially on the run!  I'm truly looking forward to the joining the other 27 Team Blaze athletes that inspire me as a coach and athlete more than they realize.  Ironman like life is truly a journey with highs and lows, however after you complete the journey you learn many life lessons along the way!

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Sunday, June 26, 2011

2.4 mile swim / 112 mile bike / 26.2 mile run

 

IM CDA race day for me isn't about chasing a PR, instead it's going to be a long day of enjoying the experience and supporting those that have supported and inspired me through a challenging last year of heart surgery.  I better start training, as I only have 6.5 weeks until IM!  Remember to enjoy the journey and live an inspired life!

Enjoy the journey and remember to live an inspired life as anything is possible if you mind to it.


Thanks for reading!

Why....



Wes Leonard, 16yr old , Michigan student/athlete

http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/41901127/ns/sports-other_sports/



As I went about my morning routine of watching ESPN yesterday, I heard another heart wrenching example of life ended all too soon.  Wes Leonard was 16yr old truly a student athlete and All American kid who had just hit the game winning shot in a basketball game and soon collapsed on the court.  He had suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and died on the court due to an undiagnosed enlarged heart.  In my journey through life, I’m always in search of answers to the “why” questions. I do believe god has a plan for all of us, however sometimes I struggle with the rationale behind unfortunate life ending situations.

As many of you know I went through my own challenges and fortunately I’ve come out of it all with a positive health outcome. I’m now back to coaching, swimming, biking, running and skiing. It feels amazing to be free again to live an inspired life! I feel truly blessed to be able to share passion for health, fitness, and life with others. I’m thankful, yet reminded daily about how precious life can be.


Recently, my uncle David recently went in the Dr. with a bad cold only to find out it was more serious, his health began to worsen by the day and after weeks of hospitalization, drugs and sedation he wasn’t improving. It saddens me to say he passed away this week. I realize as does my wonderful aunt Rita that he’s in a more peace place, but it again leaves me wondering “why”. He was husband, father, grandfather and cancer survivor. I don’t feel we should live our lives in bubble, although with family members diagnosed with repeated cancer battles and pulmonary distress, I often think how much should an individual be expected to perservere through in life? It truly inspires me to see the will and courage that some people display through their individual life journey.




Uncle David with his grandson Sawyer!

I now have a different perspective of life and faith relative to my own journey. I’ve always believed life is
worth living to the fullest. If you want to do something in this journey through life you should do it sooner than later in order to live life with no regret.

As most of you know the early detection of potentially life threatening heart conditions is near and dear to my heart. I'm now part Ironheart Racing Team and looking for ways to raise awareness to help prevent and protect people through early detection. www.ironheartracing.com


 

This is happening all too often, and as many of you know, this is something that I take personally as I was one of the lucky ones as they caught my heart issues last June after I began coughing up blood and feeling dizzy.  The only reason they caught my heart condition was through an echocardiogram considering I didn't have a heart murmur. Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is the sudden onset of an abnormal and lethal heart rhythm. SCA is the leading cause of death in the U.S., afflicting over 300,000 individuals per year (more than breast cancer and AIDS combined). SCA is also the leading cause of sudden death in exercising young athletes.

I'm trying to do something about it and I need your help. On May 21, The Ironheart Racing Team http://ironheartracing.com will host the Ironheart Classic, http://classic.ironheartracing.com a 4 mile fun run/walk and an 8 mile run to benefit the Nick of Time Foundation. http://nickoftimefoundation.org.

With your help, the Nick of Time Foundation will continue to educate and assist students, parents, teachers, coaches and community leaders by providing free youth cardiac screenings, on site assessments, readiness drills and educational resources in an effort to reduce and prevent sudden cardiac arrest. Schools are responsible for a dense population of children and adults, and are frequently the site of sporting events and other community gatherings. Studies suggest that up to 1 in 25 schools will have a cardiac medical emergency on school grounds each year.

Just last week, the Nick of Time screened over 200 students at South Whidbey High School. Of those, 9 were found to need further monitoring and 2 students were identified as needing immediate follow-up due to a potential life-threatening cardiac abnormality (and are now being seen at Seattle Children's Heart Center. Similar results were seen at their screening at Jackson High School in Mill Creek, Auburn High School and numerous schools in the Seattle Public District. Bottom Line: The Nick of Time is saving lives. One of these could be that of your own child, neighbor, nephew, niece or friend.

I encourage you all to take a quick look at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHD_uSlYZfQ. This will give you a snapshot as to who the Nick of Time is and why they do what they do. Because these are free screenings, they run on donations and fundraising. This is where the Ironheart Classic and Nick of Time needs your assistance.

There are a number of ways to help:

Pass the registration link and/or this email to all of your active friends, family and colleagues. We need their help also. http://classic.ironheartracing.com

Can't make it, but would still like to make a contribution? There are two ways, either at http://www.active.com/donate/ironheartclassic  or your can donate directly through Ironheart Racing at http://www.active.com/donate/ironheartracingteam1 . All donations are tax deductible.

I wish I had the answer to why young people like Wes Leonard and hundreds of other young student/athletes are taken from us all too soon, although I do feel that this is another example of why organization like Iron Heart Racing Team (www.ironheartracing.com ) and Nick of Time Foundation are so important in early detection.

 Remember to enjoy the journey by maintaining your faith, positive outlook and passion for living life. I continue to learn the importance of living an inspired life and giving back by inspiring others.  The older I get the more I realize that life should be lived and not taken for granted. 


 
 

Are you living an inspired life?  Are you enjoying your journey?

Thanks for reading!



Reflection & Resolution

I've had many days to reflect on my journey through life over the last 7 weeks while recovering from heart surgery.  During this time not a day went by that I didn't think about how fortunate I am be surrounded by a wonderful family and life long friends that have lifted me up and inspired me through a challenging time in my life.  It's impossible to thank everyone, however I truly appreciate all the emails, calls, visits in the hospital and prayers. 

 (Reece & I in 2005)

As I reflected on everything I took the time to check out all the old pictures that truly warm my heart with amazing memories.  Some people say a picture is worth a thousand words.  When I think about my son Reece and the fact he was born 6.5 weeks early I think about how fortunate we are to have this amazing little man in our life.  He spent 4 weeks in the NICU and then came home on monitor for the first 3 months.  I learned as all new parents do there is nothing like hold a baby on your chest and falling asleep.  

Reece, Scooby and Barkley 2005

 (Reece at 1yr)

This is another picture that always makes me smile when I think about all the love he's brought into our life.  He was an relaxed baby that was always smiling and laughing.  A baby's genuine laughter represents all that is good in life.

Reece and Tristin in Hawaii 2006 

                                                   

(Reece & Tristin 2006)

This was Reece's first trip Hawaii. We've already decided he needs to go college at UH so we'll have reason to come visit every year.  Who knows we may end up back in Hawaii someday full time?

                  (Chicago Marathon 2006)

This was an amazing family trip to Chicago.  I was fortunate to be part of the New Balance Global Centennial Team which provide an all expenses paid trip to run the Chicago Marathon.  The entire experience was like a dream come true as I had trained for 6 months and I finally ran under 3 hrs!  After 3 previous attempts I finally qualified for the Boston Marathon in April of 2007.  I'm so glad I was able to share this with Tristin, Reece and my mom.  Thanks for all braving the frigid cold and supporting me!

                      (Team Blaze members at the Turkey Trot 2007)

This photo is significant it represents some of the special people in our lives that have become good friends, enjoy having fun and triathlons!  It was almost exactly one year after we thought we were having another child only to learn that life doesn't always make sense.  We not only realized we weren't having another child as planned, but instead my beautiful wife and wonderful mother to Reece almost died in the process.  This was probably the most helpless I've ever felt in my life as I watch my wife go from 100% healthy to being admitted to the hospital with unknown complications related to an internal staff infection that wasn't responding to antibotics.  Tristin was so brave and courageous as she had to have multiple surgeries and staying in the SHMC for 6 of 8 weeks.  Unfortunately, we learned we could only have one child, however the positive result was finally Tristin was healthy again.  It made us both realize how fortunate we are to have Reece.  I will never forget the support provide through all our Team Blaze friends!

IM Canada 2008

Ironman Canada was my 3rd IM distance adventure since 2004 and provided a great family trip to the beautiful Penticton BC.  Tristin, Reece, my parents and Team Blaze friends all came to Canada too, so it was great to have an awesome support team!  If you're looking for an amazing, unique and challenging IM course this is the race for you!


Reece's first bike race Sept. 2009



Chelan Triathlon (July 2010)

This picture represents another special weekend where Tristin and I raced a triathlon together after I was told I could/should never do another triathlon again after being diagnosed with a heart condition.  I had strict order I had to let Tristin set the pace, so after the swim we rode and ran together!  Reece also compete in his first kids triathlon and rocked the bike with no training wheels!  This had to be one of the highlights of my summer as we camped out for the first time as a family with other Team Blaze athletes and families!

October 2010

During my year of bumps in the road Reece was such brave and helpful little man. He would always try to make me feel better. Wow, how he has changed over the last 5 yrs!  Tristin was always there to lift me up and help me sort through my life changing before me.  I now look forward to all life experiences and memories that are in front of us!

(Reece  & I running together in Coeur d'Alene on January 1st)

I'm so glad I have picture to represent my first run back after heart surgery.  As many of you know I have passion for my family, exercise and helping others achieve their goals.  I feel blessed as I look forward to 2011 with unlimited possibilities and experiences ahead. 

I recently went back to my follow up with my heart surgeon and cardiologist to hear the great news that all the test indicate that I'm headed in a positive direction!  Now I just need to regain my fitness and mojo for exercise as I'm out of shape!  Oh well, one day at time as I'm just blessed to be free and healthy again!

What are my resolutions for 2011?

I'm not sure.  I'm still sorting through my new found freedom to live my life again and enjoy it one day at time!  I know that I won't take my family, friends and health for granted. I'm happy to report I've now complete my first week of light exercise and I feel great!  I plan to continue to look for ways to give back and inspire others! 

Here is one great group I'm working with in 2011 called Ironheart Racing Team. http://www.ironheartracing.com/  I really want to try to use my situation as a way to encourage early detection and testing to raise awareness with athletes of all ages regarding healthy heart living!


Live life with no regrets!  Remember to enjoy the journey!

Thanks for reading and supporting!

Thankful, Inspired & Blessed in 2010

As 2010 comes to a close,  I reflect and celebrate all that I'm thankful for this year.  As many of you know I've had probably the one of the most challenging, yet inspiring years of my life.  I started the year with great health, loving family and supportive family/friends. 

Unfortunately,  life has a way of not always going as planned and I experienced a few bumps in the road.  My health challenges began in June during the Boise 70.3 when I started to pass a kidney stone on the run and soon realized all my goals were now out the window, however I felt it was important to finish what I started and get to the finish time.  As I was recovering from this experience I began to notice shortness of breath as I tired to run.  I told my wife I thought something was wrong and she said, "go to the doctor", so I did and they took some blood, etc., sending me on my way feeling everything was fine. 

Two days later I realized everything wasn't fine as I attempted to participate in a practice triathlon with Team Blaze Spokane Triathlon Club (http://www.teamblazespokane.com/) which is an inspiring and support group of people who I get the pleasure of coaching.  As I got off my bike to run as I had done a thousand times before I began to cough and cough while feeling light headed I finally had to stop after 2.5 miles.  Needless to say I was frustrated and knew my body well enough to now something wasn't right.

As I returned home still coughing and I notice that I was coughing up blood.  I was somewhat concerned, however Tristin was persistent that we go to the ER.  So, before I knew I was being admitted to Sacred Heart Medical Center for follow up tests.  It was during my 3 days at SHMC that an Echo Tech noticed my Mitral Valve wasn't closing properly, which could explain some of my symptoms.  This set in motion probably one of the most difficult times in my life when I felt like my future was out of my control.  I was initially diagnosed with possible HCM or Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Mitral Valve Prolapse.  This caused me to react the only way I knew how which was to learn as much as I could about the unknown.  It was a scary time to think I was being to told to never swim, bike or run again and triathlon were now part of my old life.

I was frustrated and needed more answers.  I feel so blessed to have connected with Dr. Eric Anderson as he didn't realize it at the time, however the :45 minutes he spent with me made huge difference in my mental outlook on the situation.  He's not only a great sport medicine doctor, he's also a father and amazing athlete.  He could relate to me desire to continue to be active and offered to facilitate my care if the heart tests were inconclusive. In small world twist it turns out Dr. Anderson is my neighbor, however hopefully I'll only see him that capacity in the future!  Thank you Tom Deheart and Heidi Peterson for the referral.

In October,  after what seemed like an eternity of more questions than answers I completed my 5th heart test and I now had some answers as to why I was experiencing fatigue and my body wasn't allowing me the freedom to do all that I enjoy.  The interesting aspect of now having the answers relates to the fact that now I had to make some decisions about my future.  As this process began in June when I first met with the cardiologist the thought of surgery was something I strongly resisted, however as I learned more about the process I realized at 37 years old I desired the ability to live a long and healthy life free of restrictions. So, the reality of having robotic heart surgery was becoming more realistic.

I remember feeling more nervous than at any other time in my life when met with the heart surgeon for the first time.  He asked me if I was prepared to sit on couch like a normal person and let all this exercise go?  My response to him was again a question, do you feel like this is living?  After that brief exchange we began to discuss my options.  Unfortunately, my Mitral Valve was so compromised to the point that a basic repair might not be possible which I'll admit was tough to hear.  Tristin asked the Dr. Swick about how confident he was that he could repair the valve?  He paused for longer than I would like and  replied that he was 70% sure he could repair it. 

As many of you know that have supported me through this journey through heart surgery, I ended up having to make difficult decision which I felt 100% confident with my mechanical mitral valve put in if the repair didn't work.  Other than having to take Coumadin the rest of my life and hearing a slight ticking noise when I exercise, I feel so thankful to be on the road to recovery, healthy and alive.

(The amazing piece of art created by team Blaze member Mason McCuddin (Thank you!) was an ideal reminder with the names of all the club members inscribed as to how many people were lifting me up and supporting my through my surgery!  It is also a reminder as to the fact I literally put my heart, my life in the hands of god and through him was Dr. Siwek was successful with my surgery. I'm so thankful to be on the road to recovery!)

As a coach of several athletes I feel fortunate to be able to guide on their individual journeys in setting and reaching goals.  Recently, I had the pleasure of coaching and being inspired by two amazing athletes that I also consider good friends.  They both accomplished different goals and helped me to maintain a positive spirit through their actions.

(Norma with Tristin and I)

Recently, Norma qualified for the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in Clearwater and finished 10th in her Age Group.  She continues to set goals, improve and inspire with her focus on consistency.  Over the last few years she has qualified for the Boston Marathon and 70.3World Championship!  I look forward to coaching her for IM CDA in 2011!

(Chet#10459 is standing next to me after the Honolulu Marathon and Charles Dias on the far right)

Chet recently lived out his dream and repeated his 20 x Ironman effort from 12 yrs ago. Chet contacted me about a year ago and ask me to coach him through this amazing event.  Starting on November 13th and concluding on Dec. 12th, he completed a 48 mile swim, 1200 mile bike and 524 mile run!  Chet did an excellent job of losing +30 lbs and finished what he started!  He proved to many that anything is possible if you stay positive and focused as the mind is a powerful thing.  As an example of the good in people, Charles also pictured above supported Chet everyday for 28 days taking time off work and away from family to assure the Chet accomplished his goal.

(Ultra Marathon finish March 2010)

In closing out the year, I've learned so many valuable lessons this year about faith, positive mental focus, friendship and family.  Life isn't fair and no one every said it would be, however I feel if we all just take time to reflect, support and give back to each other the world becomes a better place. In life we will all experience bumps in the road, although I truly feel it is how we respond or react to this challenges that defines us.  I knew that during this journey the only thing I could control is the ability to maintain a positive outlook and spirit.  This wasn't easy, however through faith, friendship and family I knew I wasn't alone.  Words can't expressed how much I appreciate all the support and encouragement provided to me through this bump in the road.

As I look forward to 2011 with wide eyed optimism I'm reminded through my 5 yrs. of all the good and simple things in life. Each day he's learning, growing and inspiring! Thank you little buddy!


Words can't express how much I appreciate my awesome wife for blessing my life with unconditional love and support! You're my best friend, partner in adventure and wonderful mother!



All the best in 2011 and remember to enjoy the journey!

Team Blazer Fun November 2011

Thanks for reading, encouraging, inspiring, and supporting!

Road to Recovery

Words can't begin to explain how good it feels to be alive and on the other side of this surgery.  Of course I always try to think positively, however with any major surgery there is no guarantee. I prayed for the best case scenario which in my case would have been to get my mitral valve repaired.  I knew going into the surgery the valve function wouldn't allow for a routine repair due to the fact I had mitral valve prolapse and mitral valve regurgitation.  I had prepared myself for both the repair and replacement options. 

After 4hrs of surgery the surgeon came to my wife (Tristin) and explained he wasn't pleased when they tested the valve function after the repair.  The valve function had improved, however he wasn't sure it would hold up over time.  So, he confirmed with her again that I would in fact want a mechanical valve.  He also gave the option of taking up golf and just changing my lifestyle completely, which Tristin quickly informed him wasn't an option.  Thanks honey for being my #1 support!

My surgeon headed back into finish the mitral valve repair.  So, all together my surgery took about 6 hrs and they stopped/started my heart twice. (crazy when you think about it!) I did put my life in someone else's hands and feel fortunate to have Dr. Siwek in Spokane.  He's an amazing surgeon, however I hope to have to never use his services again!

Once I finished surgery on Nov. 15th, I spent until 9pm at night with tube down my throat (probably the worst part of the whole experience).  I stayed in the ICU overnight and then at 8am the next day they wheeled my upstairs to my own room.   I was so thankful to be making progress, although the first day everything was moving slow.  It was great to have so many family and friends visit me in the hospital.  I knew I had many amazing people in my life, however this experience once again confirmed it.

On Nov. 16th, I think I walked 150 ft twice during the day, my throat hurt worse than anything because of the tube irritating plus I had fat lip too, but I wasn't complaining as I was glad to be feeling alive!  I didn't have much of an appetite, coughed all night and popsicles/ice were amazing treats.  I used the spirometer and spend most of the day sleeping. I was coughing a lot (painful!) and running temperature.  That night sleep was rough due to the sore throat and coughing.  The highlight of my day was seeing family and friends throughout the day!

On Nov. 17th, I didn't sleep well due to the coughing/sore throat and multitude of tests, although it was again great to see family and more friends come to visit me.  I really start feeling better and walked more the double the distance of the day before.  I tried to eat, but that was limited to jello, pudding and apple sauce.  As the day progressed I continued to run a temperature of 100, although they did remove the big tubes from my neck!  I started to look forward to all the little things that indicated I could get out of the hospital! At the end day three I thought I might end up there until Friday due the fact I still had a few tubes in my chest, although I just kept trying to do as they instructed and found the coughing did finally start to subside!

On the Nov. 18th during the rounds the PA said they were going to try to get me out of there today!  I was pleasantly surprised and now I just need a few chest tubes removed!  I was finally able to get out on the hospital and home by 2pm!

It's hard to imagine that one week ago I had heart surgery, although I pleased to report I'm getting stronger each day!  Yes, I'm tried and sore, but more importantly I feel blessed with life!  I'm realistic and I know I have a long road of recovery ahead of me.  I've been getting a ton of rest and I've had time to think about all the fun adventures that I want to plan in the coming years.   My #1 goal initially is to make sure I'm completely healthy before I jump back into my active life too soon.

I'd like to share two amazing resources I came across through this process to help me during this experience.  I found people that are dealing with a similar surgery too provide amazing perspective and support.  If you know someone that is dealing with any life changing decisions regarding heart surgery I encourage you to share these two websites. http://valvereplacement.org/  http://www.cardiacathletes.org.uk/forums/index.php

My road to recovery is just beginning, yet my life is fulled with endless possibilities.  I've learned so many lessons through this process about myself.  I only hope to continue to grow as husband, father, son, friend and coach to live my life in a way that inspires and supports others.  I realize that I want to live a life of giving more than I take.

In moving past this bump in the road I realize the challenges of life have a way of providing insight into the true character of people and importance of family & friends.  Thank you all for supporting, encouraging and inspiring me through this process!

Enjoy the journey!