In the corporate world, we often hear individuals brag about how many hours they worked for the week. They pull 60-80 hour weeks, rarely take vacation, and appear as though this is the North Star, and to be admired. Here is the truth; it’s not! If you do not make time for your wellness, you…
Weakness and Strength: The Duality of Being a CHD Survivor, and Athlete
Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving; Strength one minute, weakness the next. I train in the various gyms and formats twice per day, most days. I enjoy a mostly plant-based whole foods diet, avoiding even alcohol and every form of drug, recreational, or otherwise. To most people I comes across, I am just a…
Me With CHD: Perseverance, Grit, and Unfailing Determination to Succeed
I had a great conversation this week regarding grit and perseverance, and how it was seen as a quality in me via my employer. When asked if I agree, I smiled, because I knew the answer and was blown away that a huge part of who I am personally was shining through my work professionally….
Having Congenital Heart Disease; I’m More Than My Disability
When talking about Congenital Heart disease, which are multiple heart defects, both structural and electrical occurring in utero, I struggle to label it as a “disability”. That word, that admittance of a disability, labels me as such on medical applications, job applications, a professional work place, and even in sport. I want to break the…
Hell Apparently Froze Over; This Heart Patient Just Became a Runner!
Do you remember that one physical activity you vehemently hated growing up? The one thing that high school Physical Education teachers forced you to do once per month? You know… running? God, how I hated running! I was extremely active all throughout my childhood, and into high school; basketball, volleyball, football, wrestling class, weight lifting….
Finding A Safe Place
At a time when our country feels more divided than ever, and opinions becoming touted as fact, I knew it was time to end my relationship with social media. I became tired of the negativity and hate speech I was reading, and realized that my reasons for joining Instagram and Facebook were no longer there….
My Clash with COVID19
I began self-distancing before the order in Oregon was even put in place. As a heart patient, I knew the importance of protecting myself, and the ones I love from this plague of a virus. I did everything right…. but I still got Coronavirus. I know the moment of my exposure – I knew it…
COVID-19, Congenital Heart Disease, and the Workplace
Unless you live under a rock, you have seen hundreds of COVID-19 articles and the widespread chaos, misunderstanding, and confusion around this virus. We’re constantly told in the news, “It only hits people with underlying medical conditions. For most people, it will be a bad cold”. Here is the thing with that statistic; I am…
A Letter to My Angel: We Will Always Love You
Just today, we miscarried you. You were so tiny, just about the size of a little lentil. Your Dad and I had no idea that we could even create you. You were the most amazing surprise and came in the smallest of packaging. We weren’t even trying, but you came anyway. God always knows what…
My American Ninja Warrior Debut: The Final Countdown
It’s official! I got the call to compete on this season of American Ninja Warrior! In 31 days, I will be stepping onto the course, staring down the line of obstacles, and bringing this dream of mine to fruition. I would be lying if I said I didn’t feel pressure to not let people down….
Hearts For Adventure 