If I Had Just Gotten My Cholesterol Checked...
By John Lynk
I was the healthy guy. Former college football player. No high blood pressure. Never smoked. But I had a fear of needles, so I avoided getting my bloodwork done. I didn’t know my LDL (bad) cholesterol was sky-high. Looking back, I understand how it had been silently building up in my arteries for years—until it nearly killed me. I had a heart attack on Thanksgiving 2017 at just 49 years old. I thought it was heartburn. I wasn’t doubled over or clutching my chest. Just a tightness that wouldn’t go away. They told me it was a heart attack and days later, I had double bypass surgery. My arteries were nearly 100% blocked.
The hardest part wasn’t the surgery; it was the mental side. I’d cry out of nowhere. I couldn’t even do basic rehab movements at first. I didn’t expect the emotional toll. Now, I track my food, walk often, take my medication, and do my best to eat healthy. I still enjoy life, but I’ve learned to pay attention to what my body is telling me.
If you’re afraid to get tested—do it anyway. High cholesterol doesn’t come with symptoms, and you won’t know unless you check. Get your LDL checked. If I had pushed past my fear and done one simple test, I might have been able to avoid all of this. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about not waiting. One test could change everything.
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For more information on this health topic, visit heart.org.
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