I Didn't Think High Cholesterol Was a Big Deal—Until It Changed Everything

By Heather Bowers

I found out I had high LDL cholesterol at a college health fair. I was young, healthy, and didn’t think it was something I needed to worry about. Even as a nurse, I assumed avoiding fast food was enough.

But in July 2023, at just 40 years old, I had a stroke.

I never imagined something like this could happen to me. I now walk with a cane, live with post-stroke fatigue, and wonder if I’ll ever return to bedside nursing. I’ve learned the hard way that age doesn’t protect you, and ignoring your cholesterol can have life-altering consequences.

I’m now committed to managing my health and speaking up for others like me—young people who think they’re “too healthy” to be at risk. I take my medications, stay in close contact with my doctors, and have accepted my “new normal” with strength and grace.

If you’re reading this, please don’t ignore your numbers. Ask your doctor to check your LDL. Take it seriously. Because I’ll always wonder—what if I had?

For more information on this topic, visit www.heart.org.

HEALTH CARE DISCLAIMER: This site and its services do not constitute the practice of medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk to your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment, including your specific medical needs. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem or condition, please contact a qualified health care professional immediately. If you are in the United States and experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or call for emergency medical help immediately.

Would you like help dealing with heart or stroke conditions — either yours or someone else’s? Join us in the AHA’s Support Network! We are an online community of patients, survivors and caregivers where you can share your experience while getting encouragement, hope and informational resources from others who have been there. Membership is free and the benefits can be priceless. Register today.