Keith Ahrens

“Could the worst news about your own health, or a loved ones, actually be the best news you’ve ever heard?” – Keith

Misdiagnosis?  I’ve heard from several people recently about them being misdiagnosed by their doctor.  I haven’t done much research on this topic. Perhaps this is more common than I thought. I’m a big believer in 2nd or even 3rd opinions. I’m not speaking about simply not liking what the doctor says, but actually misdiagnosing a condition that has become a much bigger issue. Thoughts? – Keith

“August 23, 2007, is the day I had my open-heart surgery. I remember as if it were yesterday. I would imagine all survivors could relate to how I feel. I’m more alive today than I’ve ever been. I’ve lost over 200 pounds (without surgery) and feel great. I exercise and try to eat heart healthy everyday. Each day presents new challenges and obstacles but I do my best. Everyday is the greatest day of my life.” – Keith

“For many people their first Heart Attack or Stroke is their last. Sad … but true. Education, Awareness and Prevention are the tools we have to combat the deadly and often preventable diseases that cause heart attack and stroke.  Do something now; today, tomorrow and next week to positively impact your own life.  It’s a gift you will cherish forever.” – Keith

“Stress is certainly a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Reducing stress may be as beneficial as exercise and diet in preventing these diseases. Exercise, even short walks, and getting enough sleep may dramatically reduce stress in your life.” – Keith

I HATE Heart Disease! – Keith

“I went to a wedding reception and there were 3 Cardiac ER nurses there.  One of them said that this was the safest party in town and that there was no way anyone could die there.  She said that if something were to happen the patient would surely survive at least until they got to the hospital.  It was the funniest and truest thing I have heard in a long while. Nurses are the greatest.  They do what the doctors can’t” – Keith

We are the Cure. Since 1999, the death rate from coronary heart disease has decreased by 23{1ee8873d3da54571ef77633feec9b2f18618b0dba2f28faf42edb28003d1c6f7}; the death rate from stroke has been reduced by 19{1ee8873d3da54571ef77633feec9b2f18618b0dba2f28faf42edb28003d1c6f7}; and high cholesterol prevalence was reduced by 20{1ee8873d3da54571ef77633feec9b2f18618b0dba2f28faf42edb28003d1c6f7}.Much of this success in fighting cardiovascular diseases and stroke is due to the research, public education efforts, medical training and community health programs funded by the American Heart Association. Source: AHA

US News Best Hospitals List (Link to US News Report)

The Best Hospital List is out again.  Congratulations to my friends and doctors at Johns Hopkins Medical Center and The Cleveland Clinic.