Open Heart Surgery with Boots

**Alert! The name of this podcast is changing on June 4th to Open Heart Surgery with Boots! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the announcement. Be sure to subscribe to the newsletter!**Imagine if knowing your genes could help you live a healthier, more informed life... Well, that's exactly what we're exploring in this enthralling installment of The Heart Chamber Podcast. Join Boots Knighton as she converses with Elwin Robinson of Genetic Insights, who unlocks the dynamic interaction between our genes and everyday health. This episode gives you a glimpse into how genetic predispositions can dictate your body's needs - and we're not just talking about the usual suspects like heart health and cholesterol. Targeted genetic testing reveals much more, and we nudge the door open on topics like homocysteine levels, the impact of lifestyle on genetic expression, and the importance of specific nutrient profiles. Plus, you’ll hear Boots' own journey of discovery that might resonate with your own health experiences. Excited yet? There's a wealth of knowledge to unearth, so plug in, take notes, and let's decode your health together on The Heart Chamber Podcast!To explore Genetic Insights and receive 25% off your blueprint, To find out about your Genetics, visit: GENETICINSIGHTS.CO And use coupon Code: HEARTCHAMBER For 25% OFF!A Little More About Today's GuestIn 2019 Elwin Robinson developed severe digestive issues which ruined his life, causing constant pain, anxiety, severe weight loss and countless emergency room visits. Surprisingly, this was despite having owned several health businesses for over 10 years, and living a lifestyle that was healthier than 99% of people. Worst of all, no one he saw, from medical doctors to dozens of different alternative health practitioners, was able to work out what was wrong or offer any help. Then in 2021 he discovered the power of genetic testing, which finally gave him the answers that no one else had been able to provide. How to connect with ElwinWebsite: www.FeelYounger.netLinktree: https://linktr.ee/elwinrobinsonYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/elwinrobinson Support this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

#46 What does it feel like 24 hours after open-heart surgery? Cheryl Ilov strips the mystery away, providing an intimate narration of the OR's intense atmosphere. From the beep of the monitors to the whoosh of the ventilator, Cheryl guides listeners through the process as if they are right there in the room. Host Boots Knighton offers perspective from the patient's side, revealing what it's like to wake up amidst a forest of tubes and wires. This episode is a rare look behind the curtain of medical advancement and personal transformation. A Little More About Today's GuestCheryl Ilov is a former respiratory therapist and critical care specialist, with extensive experience in the cardiac care units. After spending almost 20 years in the field, Cheryl earned her master's degree in physical therapy and spent 18 years in private practice. She is also the author of two books, a podcast host, and a second degree black belt in an ancient Japanese martial art called Ninpo Tai Jutsu. How to connect with CherylWebsite: http://cherylilov.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cherylilovvitalityconsultant/Instagram: @cherylilovSupport this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well. Mentioned in this episode:Heart Valve Voice - USBe sure to check out HVV - US for support for heart valve related issues and education. xo bootsHVV-US

In episode 45 of The Heart Chamber Podcast, we dive into Aimee Mackovic's inspiring journey through a triple organ transplant during the pandemic. An accomplished poet and English professor from Austin, Texas, Aimee shares her battle with a congenital heart defect and subsequent heart and liver failures. Her memoir, "Contains Recycled Parts," available on Amazon, details this life-altering experience. Aimee was born with a congenital defect and needed the Fontan procedure at 15 months old. To her surprise, she learned at age 44, she would need a new heart and liver and then, eventually, a new kidney. We discuss the challenges she faced, including recovery, the importance of understanding medical information, and the invaluable role of community support. Aimee emphasizes the significance of emotional readiness and the impact of writing as a healing tool. Tune in to hear her incredible story of resilience and the life-saving power of organ donation.A Little More About Today's GuestAimee Mackovic was born with a congenital defect (a hole in the middle of her heart) and underwent her first open heart surgery at 15 months for a pulmonary banding, which was a temporary fix. That "fix" lasted until she was 22 years old. At 22, Aimee underwent another open-heart surgery to potentially now repair the hole. Due to the nature of the defect, a full repair was not possible, so they did a newly touted Fontan procedure, which was meant to be a bridge surgery to an eventual heart transplant. Well, another 22 years later with another hospital stay, she is admitted to Dell's Children Hospital in Austin, TX with heart and liver failure. The very complex and urgent nature of her case caused her to be taken on by Stanford Hospital in California, where she received her heart and liver on December 13th, 2019. She received a kidney transplant in June of 2022. In June of 2023, she moved back to Austin, TX, where she resumed her teaching life at Austin Community College and her social life with her friends. Her memoir, Contains Recycled Parts, is a humorous, gut-wrenching look at her triple-transplant journey.How to connect with AimeeInstagram: @aimeemackovicWebsite: www.aimeemackovic.comBook: Contains Recycled Parts - https://twosisterswriting.com/book/contains-recycled-parts/Support this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

#42 Join Boots Knighton in this eye-opening episode as she addresses the emotional and psychological preparations leading up to open heart surgery. Through an email from a listener, Boots explores the profound impact of past trauma and loss on the prospect of surgery, discussing the fears and anxieties that accompany such a life-altering procedure. Boots offers a unique perspective that delves into the intersection of mental health, resilience, and the challenging journey towards recovery. If you're curious about the emotional complexities of navigating major surgery, this episode provides a compelling and thoughtful exploration of courage, vulnerability, and the power of hope in the face of adversity. Be sure to subscribe to the newsletter!**Boots Knighton says her greatest teacher has been her heart thanks to a surprise diagnosis in 2020 (during the pandemic) of three different congenital heart defects. She is now thriving after her 2nd open-heart surgery on November, 2025 and is on a mission to raise awareness through her podcast, Open Heart Surgery with Boots, that heart surgery can be an incredible opportunity to begin again in life and live life wide open. Support this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

#41 Tim opens up about his intense battle against atrial fibrillation (AFib) and how it led him down the path of surgeries and self-discovery. You'll hear how his experience taught him more about the value of life, friendship, and self-care. He shares how he crushed his PT goals and the inspiring aftermath once he was free of AFib. His legal battles with insurance are also an important piece to his story which many listeners sadly will relate. This episode is as much about conquering physical peaks as it is about the emotional highs and lows of a life-altering journey.If you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:04:24 Successful weight loss post-heart surgery transformation.08:14 Busy life led to shocking health discovery.13:11 Irregular heart rhythm can lead to stroke.15:39 Struggling through divorce and stress taking toll.18:49 Beloved Jackson hike, Tim's feat post-surgery. Insurance trauma.22:01 Surgery was essential to go back to work, so Tim had to enlist legal help.26:25 Professional, supportive, and unforgettable open-heart surgery experience.28:15 Recovery, fear, and determination after medical ordeal.30:55 Grateful for support.37:12 From junk food to healthy eating habits.38:08 Cholesterol medicine stopped; trainer helped improve health.41:15 Cherishing life after overcoming adversity and health issues.A Little More About Today's GuestTim Rogers lives in Jackson Wyoming and has lived there for over 31 years. He came out to Jackson after graduating from St. Mary’s College in Moraga California in June 1992. Tim came to ski for one season and never went back to California. He's a 2nd-grade teacher at Colter Elementary in town. He's also a part-time ski instructor at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Tim has 2 daughters ages 15 and 17, who really seem to think they are better skiers than him which he begs to differ because he can carve on skis and all they do is ski straight down the mountain and never turn. Now for the not-so-fun stuff, Tim was diagnosed with AFib about 5 years ago when he was on the operating table for a hernia. One of the nurses noticed he was in AFib when she looked at the heart monitor. That was the beginning of his journey that ended up in having open heart surgery on August 25th, 2023 down at the University of Utah Hospital in Salt Lake. Tim was in AFib 24 hours a day for months. He went through his stress test in AFib, he had 3 cardioversions in November 2022 and an ablation down in Salt Lake in December 2022. That obviously didn’t work and he was referred to another electrophysiologist down in Salt Lake. He had his maize procedure down in Salt Lake on August 25th of 2023. This surgery with a change in his diet changed his life forever. Tim got a second chance with his life and he is not going to screw this up.How to connect with TimFacebook: www.facebook.com/tim.rogers.315Support this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

#39 Boots Knighton, with her signature blend of warmth and wisdom, opens up about life before and after the operating room. As Boots recounts the trials of her recovery, you'll find yourself drawn into a narrative filled with practical advice on managing post-surgery health and emotional well-being. From the surprising impact of diet to the tactics for coping with hospital stays, this episode is packed with insights. But it's not all serious – hear how Bob Ross's serene landscapes and the antics of woodland creatures brought unexpected joy to Boots's journey. Eager to learn how to turn a health crisis into a pivot point for a fuller life? Let Boots's story inspire you.The episode with Josh Dech can be found here: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/910773ce-49d2-45cf-a7fc-55a596725013If you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:06:09 Boots turned her hospital walks into a daily game.09:16 The importance of gut health and pooping.11:36 Excessive vomiting after surgery due to medication.17:03 What you choose to watch on TV is just as much a part of your diet as what you put in your body.19:26 Friend's unwavering support and nourishment mean everything.22:18 Watching animals brought comfort after heart surgery.26:14 Overcoming challenges can lead to extraordinary outcomes.30:06 Gratitude, love, hope, inspiration, healing, share, and please leave a review.Support this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

**Alert! The name of this podcast is changing on June 4th to Open Heart Surgery with Boots! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the announcement. Be sure to subscribe to the newsletter!**#38 I dove deep this week, for you fellow heart buddies. I share how I overcame fear and cultivated a positive mindset for healing. I share about my experience with the power of visualization, drawing from personal experiences with heart surgery and injury recovery. As an athlete, I have benefited from using mental imagery to gear up for success and now have experienced how this technique can speed up healing. I share my experience with a concussion during my time as a ski instructor. Tune in for hope and advice on facing health hurdles with optimism, and share your stories with me. Don't forget to leave a review and spread the word!The teachers I reference in the episode are:Dr. Joe DispenzaDr. Wayne DyerBelleruth NaparstekIf you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:06:11 How Boots overcame a devastating TBI, relearned how to ski and visualized skiing exam success, achieving a top score.07:49 Boots received a surprise award nomination, but then, heart surgery happened leading to an uncertain future in ski instruction. Nevertheless, she was proud of the moment and the visualization got her through the heart surgery.13:26 Visualizing health, positivity, and recovery before heart surgery.16:14 Focusing on positivity reduces stress for better health.20:10 When in doubt, seek a 2nd opinion, call a therapist, visualize a positive outcome for your situation.21:58 Boots briefly speaks about breaking her leg but remains optimistic.26:49 Now, she is visualizing strength, surgery, recovery.Boots Knighton says her greatest teacher has been her heart thanks to a surprise diagnosis in 2020 (during the pandemic) of three different congenital heart defects. She is now thriving after her 2nd open-heart surgery on November, 2025 and is on a mission to raise awareness through her podcast, Open Heart Surgery with Boots, that heart surgery can be an incredible opportunity to begin again in life and live life wide open. Support this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

In episode 37 of the Heart Chamber Podcast, host Boots Knighton shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with a heart condition. She discusses the challenges she faced and the strategies she used to cope, including seeking support from friends and professionals, undergoing therapies like EMDR, acupuncture, and reiki, and embracing the power of community. Despite the initial shock and medical gaslighting, Boots emphasizes the importance of emotional processing, seeking help, and accepting the situation with radical positivity. She highlights the impact of her heart journey and how it has transformed her perspective, even leading her to start the podcast and speak at TEDx. The episode resonates with those facing health challenges, offering hope and inspiration.If you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:04:56 Boots reflects on her head injury and the positive impact on her life through reframing. She compares the recovery to a deep soul excavation and finding forgotten items during spring cleaning.09:00 She shares her journey dealing with trauma and seeking professional support for coping and managing heart diagnoses.11:16 A heart diagnosis takes time, needs support.15:04 Accepting birth defects, overcoming grief, and sobriety journey.20:24 Boots is grateful for the support of various healthcare professionals and alternative healers during their health journey, and wishes she had a better understanding at the beginning. She recommends a podcast for others in similar situations.https://player.captivate.fm/episode/af6e5d74-4767-4519-b339-496a97814d87https://player.captivate.fm/episode/ad483bd7-269d-447a-918d-f8fac3aa8b7823:56 Embrace challenges, listen to your soul, and please share this podcast.25:38 Thanks for your time and support. Please subscribe, share, review, and provide feedback. Email me with your thoughts.Boots Knighton says her greatest teacher has been her heart thanks to a surprise diagnosis in 2020 (during the pandemic) of three different congenital heart defects. She is now thriving after her 2nd open-heart surgery on November, 2025 and is on a mission to raise awareness through her podcast, Open Heart Surgery with Boots, that heart surgery can be an incredible opportunity to begin again in life and live life wide open. Support this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

Join Boots Knighton in a thought-provoking conversation about the transformative power of reframing life's challenges. In this episode, Boots shares her experiences of waiting for open heart surgery and how she navigated through fear, impatience, and finally, acceptance. Through her personal journey, she presents valuable insights on embracing difficulties as opportunities for personal growth, resilience, and healing. Through her openness and wisdom, she challenges listeners to shift their mindset from asking "why is this happening to me?" to "why is this happening for me?" Don't miss this inspiring episode that offers a fresh perspective on navigating life's obstacles with courage and grace.If you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:05:33 Boots shares how she endured months of fear before heart surgery, reflecting on wisdom gained.09:39 Reflecting on heart journey, shifting the victim mindset, and focusing on moving forward.13:41 Adopting a positive mindset can shift situations for the better. Gratitude and visualization can impact outcomes.15:56 Despite the challenges of heart surgery, Boots feels amazing, emphasizing the importance of attitude and life's lessons.Boots Knighton has been an educator since the late 1990s in all facets of education including high school science, middle school mathematics, elementary reading, college level ecology, ski instruction, backpacking, and experiential education. Her greatest teacher has been her heart thanks to a surprise diagnosis in 2020 (during the pandemic) of three different congenital heart defects. She is now thriving after her open-heart surgery on January 15, 2021 and is on a mission to raise awareness through her podcast, The Heart Chamber: patient stories of open-heart surgery and recovery, that heart surgery can be an incredible opportunity to begin again in life and live life wide open.Support this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

Embark on an unforgettable episode of The Heart Chamber Podcast as Boots Knighton shares her remarkable journey of overcoming adversity and finding resilience amidst life’s unexpected challenges. From her powerful recollection of breaking her leg in a skiing accident to her thought-provoking reflections on the impact of trauma on heart health, Boots delves into the depths of her personal experiences. Gain exclusive insights into the importance of mental health therapy post-surgery, the call for insurance coverage of alternative healing treatments, and the necessity for improved referrals for women in cardiac rehab. Join Boots on a poignant exploration of the vulnerabilities and triumphs woven throughout her recovery journey. As she looks towards the future, she invites you to join her for upcoming special episodes and encourages your support in keeping the podcast thriving. Tune in for an episode filled with gratitude, love, and a captivating invitation to join the vibrant and supportive Heart Chamber community.Watch Boots' TEDx Talk, Practicing Dying for Living at https://youtu.be/Rs0PSmzM3hc?si=pRJ-DyGXFg5oB9eeBoots Knighton has been an educator since the late 1990s in all facets of education including high school science, middle school mathematics, elementary reading, college level ecology, ski instruction, backpacking, and experiential education. Her greatest teacher has been her heart thanks to a surprise diagnosis in 2020 (during the pandemic) of three different congenital heart defects. She is now thriving after her open-heart surgery on January 15, 2021 and is on a mission to raise awareness through her podcast, The Heart Chamber: patient stories of open-heart surgery and recovery, that heart surgery can be an incredible opportunity to begin again in life and live life wide open.How to connect with BootsThe Heart Chamber - A podcast for heart patients (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Email: [email protected]: @theheartchamberpodcast or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well. You can share directly from this platform or send them to:The Heart Chamber - A podcast for heart patients (theheartchamberpodcast.com)

**Alert! The name of this podcast is changing on June 4th to Open Heart Surgery with Boots! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the announcement. Be sure to subscribe to the newsletter!**In episode 34 of The Heart Chamber Podcast, nutrition expert Michelle Routhenstein shares valuable insights on heart health and nutrition. She emphasizes the importance of personalized care and finding qualified healthcare professionals, cautioning against one-size-fits-all diet trends. The discussion delves into the keto diet, ancestral diets, and the need for balanced macronutrients to support heart health. Host Boots Knighton praises Michelle's science-based approach to nutrition and highlights the importance of education in the medical field. Michelle's long-distance nutrition programs aim to address the root causes of heart disease through personalized, science-based nutrition. Listeners are encouraged to be proactive in their healthcare and ask questions, emphasizing the need for individualized nutrition approaches.If you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:06:08 Dietitian focuses on heart health and prevention.10:35 Emphasis on teamwork in patient care. Doctors lacking nutrition knowledge, refer patients to nutritionists. 14:37 Impact of stress on health; the importance of self-care for overall well-being; the need to choose the right medical professionals.19:24 Avoiding one-size-fits-all diets. Emphasis on personalized, sustainable approach to diet for heart health. 21:16 Rethinking past advice.25:18 Low carb diets may lead to heart issues and nutrient deficiencies.27:28 Low carb diets lead to ketosis, but may stress kidneys, liver, and cause health issues like keto flu.32:22 Adequate nutrition is crucial for athletes' health and performance, as improper balance of macronutrients can lead to increased free radical production and plaque formation in arteries. It is important to question and understand the biological mechanisms behind nutritional claims.35:58 Group and 1 on 1 support for heart health with personalized guidance, blood work focus, resources, and accountability.39:26 Be your own health advocate. Understand your numbers, ask questions, and take care of your heart.40:29 Encourages reaching out to Michelle for heart health tips and joining her group. Airing weekly heart health episodes in February.A Little More About Today's GuestMichelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, serves as the owner and president of Entirely Nourished LLC, a specialized private practice in nutrition counseling and consulting focused on the prevention and management of heart disease. Employing a science-based, holistic approach, she is dedicated to enhancing individual's heart health by addressing cardiometabolic risk factors and mitigating the likelihood of cardiovascular issues as individuals age.Acknowledged as a thought leader and expert in heart disease management and prevention, Michelle is deeply committed to educating individuals on nurturing their hearts for healthy and thriving lives. She adopts a dynamic perspective on nutrition that addresses the root causes of chronic diseases, safeguarding individuals' hearts for longevity. Her passion lies in translating Nutritional Sciences into an easily understandable language that can be applied for the long term. Michelle has a compelling presence on social media, particularly on Instagram (Heart.Health.Nutritionist) and LinkedIn (/in/michellerouthenstein/), where she shares valuable information to educate and empower her followers to take ownership of their heart and overall health, guiding them in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease through nutrition and lifestyle changes.As the author of "The Truly Easy Heart Healthy Cookbook" and a member of the Forbes Health advisory board, Michelle has delivered numerous lectures on heart health to diverse audiences. She has been cited in reputable journals, including Medical News Today, Fox News, Forbes Health, LiveStrong, Eating Well, Health, and VeryWell.Michelle earned her Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Nutrition at New York University (NYU), her Master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from NYU, and completed her dietetic residency at NYU. Before establishing her private practice, Michelle gained valuable experience on the surgical floor of New York City hospitals, including a level 1 trauma center, where she played a crucial role in managing various high-intensity clinical diagnoses.How to connect with MichelleWebsite: www.entirelynourished.comInstagram: @Heart.Health.NutritionistLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michellerouthenstein/Support this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgeryw

In this episode of The Heart Chamber Podcast, host Boots Knighton interviews guest Robyn Peacock about her journey with a bicuspid aortic valve, misdiagnoses, and ultimate recovery from open heart surgery. Robyn emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, proactive healthcare, and trusting one's instincts when it comes to medical concerns. The discussion sheds light on the emotional and mental aspects of heart surgery recovery, with a focus on managing emotions and seeking support. Robyn's story highlights the significance of listening to one's body and pursuing a second opinion when needed. The episode concludes with Boots encouraging audience feedback and interaction with the podcast.If you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:06:31 Mild fatigue and memory issues in mid-forties.12:47 Misdiagnoses, missed diagnoses caused much stress.16:32 Recurrent ER visits for undiagnosed subacute strep infection.20:14 Urgent hospital visit due to low hemoglobin.21:04 Admitted, tested, discharged, no internal bleeding found.25:30 Excited for new chapter in life journey.30:28 Rebirth after open heart surgery, depression shock.31:16 Grateful for surgery experience, advice on processing.36:39 Balance emotions, trauma, and self-regulation awareness.39:22 Navigating medical system with grace and self-advocacy.A Little More About Today's GuestAlways a Southern California girl, Robyn loves all things water and tennis! She lives in Palos Verdes with her husband and two very cute mini-poodles, Hallie and Hazel. Her two boys, Albert & Chancellor, are recent college graduates and out exploring the world. During weekends you can find her in the Naples Canals in Long Beach paddle boarding, or riding bikes around the South Bay. She is beyond grateful for her second "heart start"!Support this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

In this episode of "The Heart Chamber" podcast, host Boots Knighton and physical therapist Cassie Fuller discuss the importance of listening to our bodies and recognizing subtle signals for overall well-being. The conversation highlights the impact of open heart surgery and the care needed for cardiac athletes, emphasizing the importance of mental health in the healing process. Together, Boots and Cassie explore the challenges of reconciling an active lifestyle with the need for healing, and how to tune in to the body's signals to avoid overexertion. Don't miss this compelling discussion on the critical need for a holistic approach to healing and the transformative power of embracing both our physical and emotional well-being. The discussion underscores the need to consider factors beyond physical stress in the healing process and reminds us to be attentive to our body's signals for optimal health.You can find Cassie Fuller at https://www.kilterpt.com/ or email her at [email protected] this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

**Alert! The name of this podcast is changing on June 4th to Open Heart Surgery with Boots! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the announcement. Be sure to subscribe to the newsletter!**In this emotionally charged episode of The Heart Chamber Podcast, host Boots Knighton takes listeners on a raw and powerful journey through her harrowing experiences with open heart surgery and her complicated recovery. From the life-threatening health journey of her mother overlapping her own diagnosis, to the challenges in receiving the life saving surgery she needed, to unexpected complications post-surgery --Boots shares her deeply personal struggles and the transformative power of forgiveness that bubbled up through it all. Join her as she delves into the profound impact of chronic pain, emotional turmoil, and the crucial role of self-love, patience, and accepting support as you navigate the healing process. Prepare to be moved as Boots opens up to us to discuss the uncharted territory of these major life changes and what helped her navigate through it all. If you're seeking a story of resilience, forgiveness, and the triumph of the human spirit, don't miss out on this gripping episode.This is a re-release of episodes 1 & 2 of The Heart Chamber podcast that have been combined into a single episode for ease of listening.Boots Knighton says her greatest teacher has been her heart thanks to a surprise diagnosis in 2020 (during the pandemic) of three different congenital heart defects. She is now thriving after her 2nd open-heart surgery on November, 2025 and is on a mission to raise awareness through her podcast, Open Heart Surgery with Boots, that heart surgery can be an incredible opportunity to begin again in life and live life wide open. Support this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

#28 Buckle up for a thought-provoking exploration of the often overlooked relationship between gut health and overall well-being in this episode featuring Boots Knighton and Josh Dech. Josh reveals the impact of gut bacteria on genetic function, immunity, and even behavior. Delve into the essential role of gut health in post-surgery recovery and uncover insightful strategies for priming the body's detox pathways to optimize healing. From the potential risks of DIY interventions to the influence of pharmaceutical companies on healthcare, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the complexities of the medical system and the pressing need for a more holistic approach to patient care. If you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:05:54 Healing body through correcting internal dysfunctions.07:21 Choosing integrity over broken industry norms takes courage.16:08 Good bacteria crucial for baby's development, study shows.22:23 Overcoming health challenges and post-surgery detox.25:37 Manage medications, gut health crucial for detoxing.30:39 Profit-driven healthcare system prioritizes medications over health.35:43 Start slow, eat bone broth, stimulate digestion.37:14 Liver primed for detox, aiding anesthesia recovery.42:11 Gut bacteria can reverse gut diseases cautiously.45:19 Lab authorization for gut analysis led by practitioner.50:10 Pharma dominance replaced herbs in medicine history.A Little More About Today's GuestJosh Dech is an ex-paramedic, holistic nutritionist, and medical lecturer, specializing in digestive diseases. He is a medical lecturer for the Priority Health Academy, and founder of The Gut Health Solution.How to connect with JoshWebsite: https://gutsolution.ca/Podcast: ReversABLE PodcastSupport this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

#26 Host Boots Knighton invites guest Jacque Avalon, a nurse, to share her inspiring story of thriving post open heart surgery. Jacque's journey began when she went to the emergency room with chest pain, which turned out to be a rare condition called double chambered right ventricle. It took some advocacy and prompting from Jacque's primary care physician for a full work to be completed. This led to the discovery of her Double Chambered Right Ventricle, and other structural challenges with her heart. Jacque underwent open heart surgery and was surprised by a few things along the way. She took these struggles in stride. You'll be thrilled to learn the impressive feat she accomplished a year after open heart surgery. It was something she dared not attempt pre-surgery, and was able to do once her heart was repaired. Its a testament to the fact that it's possible to aim even higher when congenital heart constraints have been resolved..Jacque's story emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience after undergoing major heart surgery. There were intense moments on her path, when things were incredibly challenging, but there was also another side.If you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:[06:20] Stressors were taking a toll. And the chest pain wasn't going away.[11:25] Results from the TEE (transesophageal echocardiogram): Rare adult condition: DCRV, VSD, PFO.[15:44] Preparing for Open Heart Surgery- who will make your health decisions if you can't? [22:43] Anesthesia slows blood circulation. Your options to prevent blood clots.[26:44] Unbearable pain, unforgettable feeling.[35:35] Value of attending Women Heart and the reflections it brought to the surface.[36:17] Coming to terms with the changes - a physical scar in a day and at an age with such an emphasis on appearances.[41:29] Advice to others facing open heart surgery.Links mentioned in this episodeWomen Heart - www.womenheart.orgSmidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai in LA - www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/heart.htmlA Little More About Today's GuestJacque Avalon is a 31-year-old registered nurse based in Los Angeles CA. She was born with a congenital heart disease that was left untreated until September 2020. She had open heart surgery at the age of 28 after finding out that she had a rare congenital heart defect among adults called DCRV (double-chambered right ventricle).How to connect with JacqueInstagram: @apple.jacqsSupport this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

#25 Join host Boots Knighton as she welcomes Leigh Kamping-Carder, the mind behind The Heart Dialogues, to delve into the realities of living with a complex heart defect. She shares her journey of childhood surgeries from tricuspid atresia to navigating the uncharted waters of adult care. Leigh sheds light on the emotional toll of her condition, while offering hope and support to others facing similar battles. A Little More About Today's GuestLeigh Kamping-Carder is the writer of The Heart Dialogues, a free newsletter featuring candid conversations and writing for people born with heart conditions (and the people who care about them). She was born with a complex heart defect called tricuspid atresia and had three heart surgeries before the age of 4, including a Fontan operation. She is also a professional journalist, currently heading up the newsletters team at one of the top newspapers in the U.S. She has been a reporter, editor and digital journalist for a decade and a half, covering everything from luxury homes to innovation to arts and culture. How to connect with LeighNewsletter: theheartdialogues.substack.comTwitter: @Leigh_KCSupport this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

#24 From a life-altering heart attack to a misplaced bypass graft, embark on a rollercoaster ride of resilience and self-discovery with Sherri Hansen. Sherri walks us through her heart attack diagnosis and subsequent open-heart surgeries. This story is important and is a reason why we all need to be our own best advocates.If you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:[04:14] Experienced chest pain but didn't seek help.[07:48] Had issues with pain medication, received Ketamine treatment in ICU, lacked proper rehabilitation after discharge.[11:59] Surgery mishap, vein instead of artery. Redoing bypass.[13:25] Sherri received good advice, adjusted her perspective, and advocated for herself.[15:51] Bright Spots - Nurse helped with wound care; puppy visit boosted spirits.[17:15] Bridge misdiagnosis, life-threatening blockages, and complications.[27:45] The importance of having a Caring Bridge & a Strong Network[32:40] The Effects of Societal Pressure, especially as a woman[33:55] Be your own advocate, ask for help.A Little More About Today's GuestSherri Hansen is originally from Detroit, Michigan, and moved to Madison, WI in 1996 to work at the University of Wisconsin. She is a psychiatrist and has been in private practice for the past 23 years. She is also a musician and when not working or attending doctor appointments, sings in several community choirs, plays piano, and writes church music. She loves hiking and biking, knitting, reading, and gardening. How to connect with SherriWebsite: www.womenheart.orgSupport this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

#22 Guest, Cody McKay, shares his journey with an ascending aortic aneurysm and how it impacted his life as a young athlete. He discusses the importance of considering cardiac health and the effects it can have on sports and overall well-being. Cody highlights the need for awareness and support for individuals dealing with heart conditions, emphasizing that age and athleticism are not exempt from such issues. He is also an advocate for heart-healthy living and the importance of educating oneself on baseline measurements like blood pressure. Cody's inspiring story serves as a reminder that even with a diagnosis, one can still live a full life and pursue their dreams. Plus, he sheds light on his efforts to raise awareness and support for Project Heart.If you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:[03:50] At 29, chest X-ray found heart abnormality.[06:10] Shortness of breath, frustration, tests, aortic aneurysm.[10:46] CT confirms ascending aortic aneurysm.[15:21] Managing an aneurysm, achieving biking milestones.[16:24] Living with medically managed aneurysm, still active.[19:36] Different situations, years of sport training. Heart rate, intensity, energy systems, max threshold. Ceiling of 140-150 for comfort.[23:24] Cody's outlook - possible reduced quality of life, chance of failure. Good odds currently. Long-lasting valve, no need to replace. Simplified procedure for aortic aneurysm.[26:17] Wheelchair to walking: Cody's journey after surgery.[36:31] Project Heart and paying it forward.A Little More About Today's GuestCody McKay is a 32-year-old male who is a policy analyst by day, and competitive-elite cyclist at all other times. Following his ascending aortic aneurysm diagnosis, subsequent open heart surgery, and now return to sport, he is riding and racing to raise awareness about heart & cardiovascular disease, prove that individuals who have been impacted by these diseases can achieve great things, and raise funds for the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Canada's largest cardiac centre.How to connect with CodyInstagram: @cardiac_codySupport this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

#21 Christine Boev, a healthcare provider, mother, sister, daughter, and ICU nurse with a wealth of experience shares her journey through the realms of nursing, from her early days as a novice nurse to her current role as the chair of an undergraduate nursing program. We'll also delve into the intense and emotional world of pediatric ICU nursing and the ethical dilemmas that arise when making life or death decisions. Expand your knowledge and gain a deeper appreciation for the dedicated professionals who navigate the complexities of the heart. If you are looking for something specific - here's where you'll find it:[04:01] Healthcare provider and mom shares nursing knowledge.[06:28] What is the role of an ICU nurse?[15:42] Why do you have so many wires after surgery?[21:55] Multiple potential complications can occur during surgery.[25:34] Care for babies to adulthood, including surgeries.[26:52] Nursing children and supporting terrified parents.[31:11] Transplant patients depend on worst days.[39:17] ICU needs frequent monitoring for patient safety.[41:44] Saving everyone, including those with no quality of life, is an ethical dilemma for care providersA Little More About Today's GuestDr. Christine Boev is an ICU nurse and professor of nursing with extensive training and research in anti-aging, health, fitness, and wellness. She is a health coach who works with clients to become the best version of themselves. By precisely calculating macro-nutrients related to their overall goals, Dr. Boev works one-on-one with clients to achieve optimal health outcomes. She has particular expertise in nutrition, supplementation strategies, and strength training. In addition, Dr. Boev is a devout Yogi who believes that mobility is the key to health, especially as we age. How to connect with Dr. BoevInstagram: @drchristineboevSupport this podcast HERE with any amount. Thank you!Join the Newsletter for almost weekly content for this podcast and other heart related news.**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**How to connect with BootsEmail: [email protected]: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knightonLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knightonBoots KnightonIf you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well.

Are you, or someone you love, looking at the possibility of open heart surgery? Join Boots Knighton, an educator, athlete, and heart patient, on her podcast, The Heart Chamber. With a surprise diagnosis and subsequent surgery at 42, Boots knows firsthand the challenges and fears that come with facing this procedure. In The Heart Chamber, she shares insightful conversations, reflective interviews, helpful resources and inspiration for heart patients, caregivers, and health care providers. Discover how to prepare for and thrive after open heart surgery as Boots shares conversations on hope, healing, and overcoming obstacles. Don't miss a single episode of The Heart Chamber for valuable insights and encouraging stories. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.Boots Knighton says her greatest teacher has been her heart thanks to a surprise diagnosis in 2020 (during the pandemic) of three different congenital heart defects. She is now thriving after her 2nd open-heart surgery on November, 2025 and is on a mission to raise awareness through her podcast, Open Heart Surgery with Boots, that heart surgery can be an incredible opportunity to begin again in life and live life wide open.

#20 Boots shares how much she has grown from launching this podcast as well as all the people she has had the priviledge to meet with Michael Moeri, the sound guru for this podcast. She also shares recent developments with her health and the importance of holistic dentistry.Michael reflects as well on how he met Boots and the episodes that touched him. You can hear Boots in Episode 209 – Making Friends with Stillness, Boredom and Courage with Suzanne Boots Knighton - The Jackson Hole Connection

#18 Kathy Hoseth was the first patient to be unroofed for her myocardial bridge in the state of Michigan at age 58. She began experiencing symptoms at age 8 from a myocardial bridge but would not receive the diagnosis until age 58. Throughout childhood, she couldn't catch her breath, her legs hurt, and she just didn't feel right. She even passed out when standing in line for too long in high school. She kept living her life, had two boys in her 20s and even went back to school as a mom. She had her first ER visit during college and was discounted as having stress. She kept going back to the doctor and was diagnosed with pleurisy as well as pericarditis. She was told to take Motrin. She kept living her life. Then, she bought a Fitbit and noticing her heart rate which would be as high as 185. After several more doctors and a heart monitor, Kathy spoke up and said "my inner voice said something is not right." Finally, she had a nuclear stress test and heart catherization which found the myocardial bridge. BUT! Then she was put on medications which did not help. Finally, Kathy had another heart catherization with a female doctor who could see how significant her bridge was. Thanks to Spectrum Health Hospitals for performing the first unroofing procedure at that facility. Kathy is now living her best life. She reflects at the end about how heart surgery changed her. Boots also weaves in some of her story with Kathy's including her ridiculous experience attempting to participate in track in high school.Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing Director

Belen Blanton was born with tricuspid atresia in Caracas, Venezuela back in 1965. When she was born, many doctors told her mom that she was not going to make it. Fortunately, her mother took her to a cardiologist that had contact with Houston Children's hospital in Texas, where she had surgery, a Potts Shunt procedure performed by Dr. Denton Cooley. From age 15 she began to experience complications including arrhythmia. When she was 21 she moved to the US and from age 30 experienced atrial fibrillation, endocarditis, Eisenmenger Syndrome, and pulmonary hypertension. She is married with two sons and has recently started a charity to help those living in her home country of Venezuela. She believes her life has been a gift and she has felt a need to give back to others in her country by creating a nonprofit organization called ‘Estrellita de Belen Foundation.’Belen's foundation can be found at https://fundacionestrellitadebelen.orgOr email her at [email protected]://www.linkedin.com/in/belenblantonaltuve/https://www.instagram.com/estrellitadbelen/Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing DirectorMentioned in this episode:Heart Valve Voice -USBe sure to check out HVV - US for all the latest research and advocacy work they are doing on behalf of heart patients in the US and abroad.HVV-US

On March 4, 1976, Jason Crutchley was born with 4 congenital heart defects: Atrial Septal Defect, Transposition of the Great Vessels, Sub-Aortic Stenosis and Pulmonary Atresia. In layman terms, he was born with 1 chamber of my heart working, not 4! All four defects individually are very common in males, but to have all 4 in 1 is extremely rare. At six weeks old, he underwent his first surgery called a Pulmonary banding. At that time, the doctors gave him a life expectancy of 3 years. At 6 years old, he underwent (as the first child at UCLA) the classic Fontan procedure.At the time he turned 21, he would need a revision (the lateral-tunnel conversion fontan). At age 23, his son was born perfectly healthy and then Jason promptly underwent 3 pacemaker surgeries. Jason thrived for the next 17 years working in radio and as a wine tour specialist in Napa. In 2017, after loosing his mother, he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and was in need of both a heart & liver transplant and began evaluation. By February 2018, he was fully listed on the transplant list and on 1/28/19, he was the only the 19th heart and liver transplant Stanford had performed.Now, 4 years later, Jason is thriving as a maintenance tech working in Virginia. His transplant continues to be successful with no rejection.Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing Director

#15 Boots interviews Erin Borbet, a acupuncturist and coach, to highlight the role Erin's acupuncture and coaching has played in Boots's recovery from heart surgery. There are so many important lessons in this episode. Boots shares about working through the emotional components of heart surgery with Erin. It's an important listen. Erin is a Licensed Acupuncturist, Board Certified in Chinese Herbal Medicine, a DONA Trained Labor Doula, Certified Nosara Yoga Instructor, Intuitive Life Coach and eternal student of the healing arts.Erin helps her clients unlock their vibrant health potential using acupuncture, custom botanicals, constitutional nutrition, stress management tools, distance energy healing and intuitive life coaching. She works in-person with clients at her clinical practice in Victor, Idaho and remotely with clients all over the world. She uses her fifteen+ years of clinical experience to provide her clients with a comprehensive holistic health strategy specific to individual needs and goals, and always in alignment with other care providers. It is her belief that true and lasting healing must integrate emotional and spiritual aspects, which she addresses via consistent communication (by phone, in person and email).Erin currently lives in a small town in the Teton Mountains outside Jackson Hole, Wyoming with her husband and three children. The best way to get in touch with her is via email, or book an appointment online via her website (https://acusimple.com/access/4098/#/appointments/).1:00 About acupuncuture and herbal medicine3:20 Nutrition and Chinese medicine4:10 Erin's approach to a new acupuncture client 7:00 Tongue diagnosis8:30 Pulse diagnosis10:00 Heart specific acupuncture13:40 Boots stress's the importance of acupuncture post open-heart surgery15:00 Erin stresses the importance of practitioners meeting the client where they are on a given day16:30 Points around the sternum scar (Window of the Sky kidney points) and the impact those points have had on Boots20:00 How shifting your thinking can be a miracle21:00 Boots reflects on her time working with Erin as a heart patient and Erin reflects as a practitioner23:00 It's a journey for heart patients24:50 When Erin asked Boots "What does healing look like to you?"27:25 Erin describes watching Boots grieve her heart and come to radical acceptance of what is28:30 Dealing with anger around heart surgery30:00 The benefits of releasing energy and how it impacts real life31:30 How to find an acupuncturist near you. 34:00 Acupuncture should not be painful!36:00 Erin's coaching practiceWebsite: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing Director

#14 Frank and Anna Jaworski's baby, Alex, was born in 1994 and was seemingly ok...to the doctors and nurses. Frank and Anna disagreed. Alex was showing many symptoms of concern including not feeding well, tachycardia, not gaining weight, jaundice, and lethargy. Frank and Anna were continuously gaslighted until Alex's problems became emergent at just two months old. From there, a miracle began to take shape as Alex eventually landed in the right doctor's arms and a diagnosis was made: hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Alex would undergo three open-heart surgeries in before he was 18 (we cover two in this episode) all at University Hospital in San Antonio, Texas.This story is an incredible story of hope and highlights the importance of listening to your instinct and advocating for your child(ren). Anna speaks interchangably about Alex and Hope. Alex made the transition to a woman in her early 20s and now goes by Hope. I hope to have Hope on this podcast soon.Anna is now a fierce advocate for those suffering with congential heart defects. You can find her, her podcasts, and other resources at www.heartsunitetheglobe.orgHer publishing company is www.babyheartspress.com. Medical terms used in this podcast include:Hypoplastic left heart syndromesingle ventricle Norwood procedurebi-directional GlennHemi-Fontan procedureB-T-T shunt (Blalock-Thomas-Thomas shunt)Dr. Park was Alex's former cardiologistDr. John Calhoon is Alex's cardiothoracic surgeonASD = atrial septal defectVSD = ventricular septal defectTGA = transposition of the great arteriesPDA = patent ductus arteriosusPFO = patent foramen ovaleAnna's books:"Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome: A Handbook for Parents""The Heart of a Mother""The Heart of a Father""The Heart of a Heart Warrior" (this is my newest book)websites:www.heartsunitetheglobe.orgwww.babyheartspress.comWebsite: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com) The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing Director

Bill Wingate will always hold on to hope, faith, and his bourbon. Thanks to his incredible community of friends and his wife, Martha, he has endured a medical journey few take and he has kept his humor in the process.In 1997, while a student at Auburn University, Bill began to experience issues in his neck. He went to see a doctor who heard a heart murmur and sent him to a cardiologist. Soon thereafter, he underwent his first open-heart surgery for the Ross procedure to repair his aortic valve at University of Alabama Birmingham. In 2013, another valve and an aneurysm.In 2014 and after 15 months after the second surgery, he had developed an infection from having a cavity filled at the dentist. His pulmonary valve had failed as well as his tricuspid.In 2019, another surgery.And then again, on January 12, 2023, he had another patch put on an aneurysm.Thank you, Bill, for sharing your story. You can find Bill here: William Wingate - Hope, Love, & GratitudeWebsite: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com) The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing DirectorMentioned in this episode:Heart Valve Voice -USBe sure to check out HVV - US for support for heart-valve related issues and education. They are an incredible organization. xo bootsHVV-US

#12 Lisa Mihan shares how she felt 20 years younger after her myectomy at NYU Langone to treat her hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Now, 57 years old, Lisa lives her life like "a leaf in the stream." Boots and Lisa also talk about navigating the healthcare system and how we hire doctors to help us heal our hearts. Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing Director

Chris Moll breaks his heart transplant journey into three two-week chunks with Boots. In particular, he takes walks us through the mental health aspect of organ transplant and how he sought out support while he waited for a donor heart and how he coped post transplant. Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com) The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing Director0:00 introduction1:30 In the fall 2017, Chris noticed he began to struggle with fishing trips. Out of breath. He rationalized it, saying he's 50 now. But, then it got worse. Much worse.3:00 He sees his general doctor who immediately sends him to a cardiologist.3:30 The local cardiologist orders an echocardiogram and it shows Chris's heart was only functioning at 6%.4:40 On February 17, 2018, Chris was admitted to the local Jackson, WY hospital and then transported to the University of Utah.6:00 What was it like to hear your heart was not ok?7:00 A month prior, Chris had had a virus that possibly was affecting his heart.8:00 Once at U of U, Chris had genetic testing that would eventually lead to a genetic disorder affecting his heart.8:30 What it's like to be on a life flight.10:30 Chris is met by the entire heart failure team at U of U. This marks the first of three 2 week segments of his hospital stay.12:00 How Chris handled the series of events.14:00 Chris's heart wasn't improving. He needed a heart transplant.18:00 Chris undergoes medical testing to ensure he can undergo a heart transplant.19:00 Chris is officially placed on the transplant list. This is the middle two weeks of his hospital stay. 20:30 He shares his struggles as he waited for his new heart.21:30 While he waited for an organ to save his own life, there had to be tradgedy elsewhere and that the hard emotional component of his journey.22:40 How Chris's family coped.26:00 Chris gets the news that a heart is available. Now he enters the 3rd two week period. Saturday, March 17. 29:30 Chris shares his mental strategy as the hours ticked down to the transplant.31:00 It's normal to have a range of thoughts but the more you can focus on the future in a positive way, the better the outcome.33:00 Boots shares her approach to her surgery.34:30 Chris strikes up a conversation with the anesthesiologist.35:00 The heart transplant took 6 hours.35:50 Chris walked right after surgery!36:30 The first couple of days post surgery. 38:30 He is extubated. "I lost a few days."39:20 His first thought coming out of the haze, was he could finally breathe. 40:00 He was able to go outside! 41:20 Food did not taste good to Chris except for fruit and yogurt.41:50 A positive memory and a reality check.44:30 Chris's struggle with being in the ICU.45:00 Regaining autonomy was everything when he was moved to the PCU.45:50 Chris pushes to be discharged from the hospital. 46:20 Juggling family logistics once Chris was released but he had to stay close to the U of U.48:30 Chris is getting stronger so the family was able to be back at home more.49:00 What the 6 months entailed while Chris was staying in SLC.50:30 Cardiac rehab51:30 Chris advocates for more independence.54:00 The mental health component.57:50 It was good for Chris's healing journey to be away from home for those 6 months.59:40 Chris references the movie, Animal House. 1:01:30 What does thriving mean?1:02:00 What was the genetic mutation? FLNC. Filamin C.1:03:00 Two family members have the gene and are receiving care.1:03:50 University of Colorado has specialists for the FLNC gene.1:04:40 The source of Chris's heart and navigating the choice of knowing the source.1:07:00 Chris decided that he did not need to know what happened to the person that gifted him his heart.1:08:00 Chris celebrates five years post transplant. Initially, he thought of his heart all of the time. He struggled in the first couple of years. Now, he is stable with medications and supplements. Now, he doesn't think about it at all.1:10:00 How he gauges progress now.1:12:30 Chris is released from mental therapy as he is doing well now.1:13:30 Chris is done doing things he doesn't want to do.1:15:00 Chris's advice to others waiting for a transplant. Think "long game."1:17:30 Chris shares how he wants to see a shift in how doctors approach medical care. He shares what he'd rather hear from doctors.1:20:00 Boots hopes this podcast can inspire the medical community to shift patient care to more supportive care.1:21:30 Closing.

#10 Paul Fasse shares his miracle story with Boots where he overcame hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, mitral valve prolapse, and myocardial bridging corrected in TWO open-heart surgeries at the Cleveland Clinic. The main theme in this episode is the importance of patient advocacy. Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing DirectorMentioned in this episode:Heart Valve Voice - USCheck out HHV - US for support and education for valve-related heart issues. xoHVV-US

#9 In this episode, Kathryn and Boots share stories of how they manage other people's reactions to their heart journeys. Kathryn also shares her journey with Ehlers-danlos syndrome, POTS, Tetralogy of Fallot and Fibryomyalgia. If you have been wondering how to talk to someone dealing with a life changing illness or if you are afraid to share your story, this episode is for you.Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing Director0:00 intro 2:00 Welcome Kathryn! How Boots found Kathryn via social media 3:00 About Kathryn and her Tetralogy of Fallot and craniosynotosis journey 4:20 She thought her medical journey would be over early in life but she continued to struggle with touch and cyclic vomiting syndrome 5:00 Diagnosed with fibromyalgia and arthritis 5:40 and then a friend mentioned Ehlers-Danlos syndrome to Kathryn which she took to her doctor. The doctor immediately agreed and diagnosed her on the spot at age 22. It all made sense. She was struggling with POTS as well as hypermobility. Covid 6:40 Kathryn contracted Covid which negatively affected her medication, Midodrine, from treating her POTS 8:50 Ehlers-Danlos syndrome diagnosis 10:30 Fibromyalgia diagnosis 12:00 Kathryn’s biggest shift with the medical community happened this past year after having both hips reconstructed due to collagen malfunction. 14:15 A heart MRI is ordered at UCLA and her life takes a turn 15:50 She learns she has pectus excavatum at age 25 which impacted her right ventricle 20:00 surgery is not possible to correct the pectus excavatum 22:00 Her struggle with endometriosis 24:00 The opportunity to practice radical acceptance over and over again 26:00 finding her specialist at UCLA 28:00 “but you look so young and healthy” 30:00 advocating for mental health therapy 31:00 confronting our mortality 32:00 What do you need to hear instead? 35:00 “I don’t know what to say but I am here with you.” 37:00 Boots shares her experience with meeting others where they are in their own journeys 39:00 Kathryn shares her struggle with working with others older than her. 42:00 “I’m no longer threatening. Now I am an inspiration.” 43:00 “I can’t control other people’s perceptions of me.” 44:00 Why Kathryn “came out” about her medical journey 46:30 Her life as a horse rider and how her condition affects her riding. 48:00 The power of sharing our stories 49:00 Boots talks about the power of grace

#8 Boots Knighton has a candid conversation with Kari Potter on how Reiki, sound healing, and acupressure helped Boots remain calm in preparation for open-heart surgery as well as how it helped her process her grief when she learned she had been born with several congenital defects. Kari uses Suzanne, Boots's first name, to refer to Boots throughout the episode. Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com) The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing DirectorThanks to Denise Hardy for your support and believing in me. linkedin.com/in/denise-hardy-30a51086Music by AudioCoffeeShow notes1:20 How Boots came to know Kari.2:30 Boots’s “why” for today’s episode with Kari.3:00 Kari shares the birth of Greenhouse Yoga and the benefits of what she and her husband bring to their practice each day.5:30 Boots’s experience during a Sound Bath at Greenhouse Yoga.6:20 Kari explains what Sound Baths do to the body and why it is so beneficial.7:00 The parasympathetic nervous system and how Kari supported Boots in preparation for her open-heart surgery.9:00 What is Reiki and how Boots was buoyed by it.12:00 Boots was not feeling safe in her body waiting for heart surgery but Kari was able to help her calm her nervous system.13:30 Distance energy work - what is it and how Kari used it to support Boots post open-heart surgery.14:30 If listeners struggle with the word “intention,” substitute in the word “prayer.”15:30 Since heart surgery, Boots feels as if she is a barometer now.16:50 Kari offers the idea that we all have superpowers to heal ourselves and shares several ways to help yourself.17:30 How to calm the nervous system through several simple exercises (acupressure points) you can do anywhere (while driving, in the hospital, waiting in a doctor’s office, at work). These exercises can help you get to sleep or calm you when you find yourself stressed from a conversation or while sitting in traffic.21:40 Boots shares that the most difficult part of her heart journey were the medical bills and dealing with health insurance and how these exercises calmed her down.22:30 The meridians in the body and our ability to work with them to support the body.23:30 Working with the heart meridian.27:40 Boots stresses the importance of visualization in preparation for heart surgery.29:20 Kari talks about strengthening the spirit and what that means.32:20 Everytime we go through a tough experience, layers of ourselves that aren’t true are stripped away.33:00 Boots had to grieve that her body was broken and how she came to the other side of surgery and is able to reflect on one of the “best weeks of her life.”36:00 Surgery does not have to be awful.37:00 Kari met Boots wherever she was in her emotions pre-surgery.38:00 Where emotions are stored in the body and how emotions affect the heart.39:00 How grief protects us and our hearts.40:30 Boots laments the toxic positivity culture and how it harms us and uses skiing as an analogy.41:30 Kari shares two more acupressure points to clear grief for the heart.42:30 Boots lacked the courage to feel grief.44:20 Kari gently leads Boots into supporting herself to feel grief. This was profoundly powerful for Boots.47:40 Boots has made peace with her heart journey with support from these practices.49:20 How we can use our own sound to move energy and emotion.52:40 Boots dares you to make your heart journey joy-filled.53:30 Boots stresses that she needed a large and diverse team to help her heal. You can’t just do a little cardiac rehab and think all will be well. Be an extraordinary heart patient.

Michelle Sheely shares her story of three stents and open-heart surgery for myocardial bridging of her LAD. She also shares about WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease. Boots and Michelle's conversation focuses on advocacy as well as the effect of hormones on the heart. Thank you for listening!0:00 intro1:50 Michelle shares her story of suffering and how she advocated for herself to get help with several stents put in place.3:30 She changed her diet and lifestyle.3:55 She has a cardiac ablation.4:30 She is back in the ER and learns she has a myocardial bridge.5:00 Michelle meets with Dr. Schnittger at Stanford and fiercely advocates for herself.6:20 Self advocacy is so important especially in women.7:00 Michelle has unroofing surgery. Her recovery has been difficult and stressful.9:00 Reflecting on when she was young versus now.9:40 Using social media for advocacy.10:15 Why it can take so long to get heart surgery.14:00 Medication is working now but it was a journey to get here.16:00 Hormones were playing a role. She is "biohacking" her way through it.18:00 There just isn't enough knowledge about myocardial bridges.18:30 Various non-heart medications were causing Michelle's vasospasms. 19:20 "Western medicine will save me; Eastern medicine will sustain me."22:40 Boots asks about those with heart issues who do not know how to advocate for him/herself.26:00 Women, we are the authorities of our own bodies.27:00 Read your own doctor's notes on your health portal!28:30 It is ok to fire your doctor!29:00 Doctors respond to data, not feelings.31:00 Vasospasms aren't just related to the heart but related to the biochemistry of the body.31:30 Michelle has worked to retrain her body and is seeking support.33:00 Finding support is so important.34:00 Michelle explains what WomenHeart is, her role and how to connect.39:00 How Michelle's heart disease has affected her daughter and the importance of mental health therapy for the child(ren).Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing DirectorThanks to Denise Hardy for your support and believing in me. linkedin.com/in/denise-hardy-30a51086

#6 What happens when your heart doesn't perform as it should, and the answer isn't clear? In this episode, Rob Thornett reveals his fight against an elusive heart condition, his eventual lifesaving surgery, and the aftermath. He and Boots Knighton discuss the steep learning curve with medical terminologies, the power of patient advocacy, and the unspoken toll of being misdiagnosed. Rob also uncovers fascinating insights about the genetic links of myocardial bridge conditions and the remarkable role of Facebook support groups. Experience their stories of recovery, resilience, and the community's role in healing.Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing DirectorThanks to Denise Hardy for your support and believing in me. linkedin.com/in/denise-hardy-30a51086Music by AudioCoffee0:00 intro1:30 Boots explains her reason for bringing Rob onto the Podcast. 2:10 Rob summarizes Boots's story and how they came to know each other.2:50 Rob tells us about his teaching career and how he always had a nagging "issue" and how many of us Heart Warriors are told we have anxiety4:20 Rob dives right into the myths of myocardial bridges6:00 Then, while in China, he began to really struggle7:40 He rattles through the various ER visits 8:10 He begs for a heart CT and offers to pay in cash at a rural Chinese hospital9:15 Rob notices there is "note" on the Chinese CT report and pushes for translation11:10 Rob finds himself infront of a Chinese hospital wondering what to do now with the knowledge that he had a myocardial bridge12:45 No one found Rob's myocardial bridge in the United States and often patients in the US are not told that myocardial bridges are found14:00 Boots emphasizs the importance of reading your own doctor's reports after doctor visits15:00 Rob gets to work trying to find someone in the US to help him16:00 Stanford is the main team in the US for myocardial bridging17:30 Rob walks us through how he got insurance back in the States 18:00 Boots shares which arteries were bridged on her heart20:30 Rob explains the holding pattern he entered as he waited21:30 Rob begins to deteriorate even as he taught school23:00 As Rob waits for Stanford, he unsuccessfully pursues robotic surgery28:00 Side story: Rob shares stories of other patients experiencing the issues with getting diagnosed properly28:00 Rob finally had surgery at Stanford and walks us through the process32:10 Boots shares her surgery process during Covid40:00 Rob goes into the Facebook support group for myocardial bridging42:30 Boots reflects on getting to wake up every day44:00 Rob goes back to work after surgery 17 days after surgery!47:00 Doctors who are doing robotic surgery now with success that have been shared on the Facebook site49:00 Do not let a doctor do a bypass on your bridge!52:00 Six months post op until present day 52:30 Endothelial dysfunction explained and how it takes time to heal55:00 Boots reflects on walking the day after surgery as well as her recovery57:00 Boots has been in a master class of learning how to listen to her heart58:40 Mayo would not have unroofed Boots and she pushed back1:00 Boots feels she's on bonus time1:02 Rob explains Lipoprotein A and how it affects arteries1:04 EECP to help expand arteries to stimulate their growth to treat endothelial dysfunction1:08 The role of social media in saving Boots's life as well as so many others1:11 Rob's role on the Facebook group site1:18 Boots talks about the importance of validation and knowing we are not alone1:25 Stanford believes that myocardial bridging is congenital

#5 Boots Knighton interviews her cardiac physical therapist, Cassie Fuller. In this impactful conversation, Boots and Cassie talk about the importance of listening to the body's clues it gives when healing post open-heart surgery. They also talk about the importance of vulnerability and asking for help. Boots feels this episode is particularly important for heart patients to listen to because Cassie coaches the listener on how to find the right practitioners in your area and what to do if it isn't the right fit. Boots apologizes for the low quality on her end of the recording. She is still working out the kinks of being a podcaster. Thank you for your patience.You can find Cassie Fuller at https://www.kilterpt.com/ or email her at [email protected]: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing DirectorThanks to Denise Hardy for your support and believing in me. linkedin.com/in/denise-hardy-30a510860:00 introduction2:00 Boots gives the background to finding Cassie, over a year later after her open-heart surgery.3:20 Boots shares that because of cardiac PT, she is finally feeling a sense of hope that she is going to be ok3:50 Cassie breaks down how she has been working with Boots (for example, objectifying the whole picture of Boots's life and the load on the heart)5:00 Finding Boots's baseline to inform care5:45 Boots shares how Cassie helped her gain more awareness around load on the heart and what load is in general and how it contributes the healing in the body.8:00 Boots was "out of whack" when she came to Cassie but was struggling to accept how her life had permanently changed due to heart surgery. Boots did not want to let go of the life she had been living prior to surgery but Cassie helped her come around through education and compassion.10:00 Cassie talks about mountain town culture and what happens when the physical lifestyle gets taken away by illness or injury and how the emotional side is being addressed.11:40 Tracking Boots's load and once written down, it became clear how overloaded Boots's heart was and how to readjust lifestyle.13:00 Cassie highlights all the ways we say no to our bodies and how that is troublesome and how to listen to the signals our body gives us.14:40 Boots shares what was most helpful for her as far as body clues.16:00 Cassie explains why it was and continues to be so important to stop before my body gave me signals to stop.17:00 Boots can do everything she wants to do, but she has to be mindful and moderate.18:00 Cassie talks about what the "rest day" means to the mountain athlete and how problematic the lack of rest days are for the body.19:00 Boots is not interested in a heart replacement which is why she found Cassie. She plans on living a life of moderation so can avoid another heart surgery.20:00 Please leave Boots a voicemail about your cardiac rehab20:30 How can a heart patient prepare for open-heart surgery which includes mental health therapy.21:30 Preop therapy is so important22:00 Internal family systems and how the body gives us a clue what it needs.22:50 A guided relationship between body and mind matters a lot.24:30 While pre-op therapy is very specific, writing down bio markers is extremely important before and after. Having the baseline is so helpful.26:30 Boots emphasizes the importance of mental health therapy for open-heart surgery, particularly internal family systems and how her heart let her know it needed help.28:00 Boots is finally finding her "central self" two years post surgery.29:00 Because Boots worked through the "muck" of open-heart surgery and the importance of perspective. She now thinks of open-heart surgery as one of the greatest moments of her life.29:45 What does it mean to heal well post-surgery? Cassie talks about the "why" we do what we do.31:30 Our essence matters much more than what we physically accomplish.32:30 Cassie talks about how there is a need for more guidance in emotional and mental healing after surgery.33:00 Boots lacked the education to know better as her body gave her signals to stop.33:40 Cassie talks about the importance of cardiac rehab.36:00 Boots talks about her ability to be vulnerability and how it helped her in her rehab. Asking for help is such an important skill.37:00 The willingness to be vulnerable and be seen.38:00 Cassie talks about finding a PT you can connect with matters.38:00 Boots believes we all are here to live amazing lives.39:40 Boots has come to a more peace-filled, joy-filled place.40:50 Cassie emphasizes how finding care can be frustrating but keep looking. Don't lose faith or hope.42:00 Boots believes that if you have survived heart surgery, there is a plan for you.42:30 Cassie coaches the listener on how to handle if a practitioner isn't the right

From Chest Pain to Myocardial Bridge Diagnosis and Surgery at Stanford, Jeff Holden recounts a life-changing episode that shifted his perspective on health, empathy, and purpose. An avid cyclist, Jeff was blindsided by a severe medical emergency that defied his otherwise stellar physical condition. This episode dives into the mystery of his heart condition, the surreal experiences during his recovery, and the transformative moments that followed. Plus, discover how Jeff's journey led him to launch a new podcast aimed at helping others dealing with similar health issues. Show notes:0:00 Introduction1:40 "What gets you up in the morning?"2:05 Jeff dives into his story starting with the Death Ride in July 20213:30 By August, he was experiencing a deep burning in his chest5:00 Sees his primary physician who recommends he sees his cardiologist6:00 By that Thursday, he woke at 5:45am with all the sensations of a heart attack, 911 is called and the EMTs find a heart attack and he's wheeled out of his house to the ambulance with a pulse of 468:00 Jeff has a catherization and nothing is found9:20 He starts cardiac rehab and was experiencing PVCs which became problematic in addition to vasospasms10:10 Jeff tries multiple medications11:00 Last day of cardiac rehab September 2021 where he had "the sensation" after climbing stairs in the garage11:50 The cardiologist calls and calls Jeff to the hospital as he had just had ventricular tachycardia episode. As in RIGHT NOW. His spasm episodes were triggering the tachycardia.13:45 Electrophysiologist casually mentions Jeff has a myocardial bridge but that it is benign but Jeff pushes back14:30 Jeff asks for a bypass of the LAD that is bridged but the doctor says, "we don't do that"15:00 Jeff's cardiologist says "it's beyond us" and recommends provocative testing15:30 Stanford is recommended and he sees Dr. Tremmel16:30 Jeff learns his myocardial bridge is 40mm long and when he is experiencing vasospasms in the LAD, it is 98% blocked17:20 Jeff had unroofing surgery at Stanford January 4, 202217:50 prior to surgery, Jeff quizzes Dr. Jack Boyd on his success rate which is great coaching for listeners. Take note!18:45 Boots recommends the Myocardial Bridge Facebook group which is a treasure trove of information20:10 Jeff feels much improvement since his unroofing21:10 Jeff connects with a marathon runner who also had unroofing in August 2021 and is doing well too22:00 Jeff and Boots met through the Facebook group thankfully.22:30 Jeff revisits why he gets up in the morning23:00 how we have to be our own best advocate.23:30 Jeff shares what he did to recover in addition to prepping for surgery including having the pre-surgery to surgery which is semi-comical.25:30 Jeff felt the power of prayer27:00 recovery was a little rough. He did not "dig" ICU at all. Sleep deprivation was an issue.28:00 Jeff takes control of his recovery.28:40 Boots shares her ICU story with Jeff.29:20 Jeff is sent home and his wife promptly gets sick. He even empties the dish washer.30:00 Minor blip and Jeff has to go to the ER and then comes down with Covid!31:00 Jeff and Boots reminisce about the heart pillow31:30 Boots asks Jeff what surprised him the most about open-heart surgery32:20 Boots asks what has been most helpful?33:10 Jeff laments how his wife was impacted34:30 Grace, gratitude, appreciation for the medical community34:50 He never felt sorry for himself. He just asked a lot of questions and did what he had to do to survive.36:00 He believes there is a reason why all of this happened the way it happened.37:00 Jeff shares about an important dream.39:10 Jeff asks Boots if she had an important dream, and she shares the impact on her empathic and intuitive abilities.41:10 Jeff and Boots talk about how heart surgery changes you.42:00 Keep your sense of humor!42:40 Survivors' guilt43:30 Jeff shares his podcast, Imperfect Heart and how he hopes to change the conversation around myocardial bridging.46:00 outroFind Jeff Holden at My Imperfect Heart – Support for those with Myocardial Bridges.Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com) The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing DirectorThanks to Denise Hardy for your support and believing in me. linkedin.com/in/denise-hardy-30a51086Music by AudioCoffee

#3 Boots Knighton interviews her nutritionist, Georgie McNiff, about how Georgie came into her life at the right time. They talk about how to combat water retention and shedding excess estrogen and dream about starting a movement to get the medical community to better prepare heart patients for open-heart surgery.0:00Intro1:25 How I found Nurse Georgie3:41 Nurse Georgie's qualifications4:31 My main issues that took me to Nurse Georgie6:12 Nurse Georgie's route to functional medicine and the impact the modern world has on our bodies9:19 Why she doesn't treat symptoms10:00 The Dutch Test and finding out my estrogen was very high10:24 role of estrogens in the body as well as how pesticides are treated as estrogens in the body13:00 How we treated my high estrogen15:40 why our body retains water17:30 Having levels tested before heart surgery beyond the usual testing and why that is important19:30 Why it is important to have multiple people on your care team and how Boots worked on the emotional/mental stuff around surgery while waiting21:00 Boots and Georgie want to start a movement to get the medical community thinking more about how to set open-heart surgery patients up for success better than how the medical community does it now.23:00 the supplements Georgie prescribed for Boots with powerful outcomes and how listeners can apply the same protocol in their lives.31:00 Boots's journey of weight loss and overall relationship with food in addition of the effects of toxins on her body34:00 getting in touch with Georgie35:00 Last nugget of wisdom from Georgie

#2 Boots continues her heart story with the help of her friend, Mary.In this particular episode, Boots discusses cardiac depression in depth and how her work with her mental health therapist was key to her recovery. Also, she describes having the sternal wires removed and the unfortunate need for a third surgery in addition to grieving her mom's death.Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com) The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing DirectorThanks to Denise Hardy for your support and believing in me. linkedin.com/in/denise-hardy-30a51086Music by AudioCoffee

#1 Boots Knighton tells her story with the help of her friend, Mary Olson. While on a mountain bike ride on June 26, 2020, Boots felt all the symptoms of a heart attack. Refusing to believe it was happening, she kept going and insisted on finishing the ride. After an ER visit, seeing a cardiologist and even climing Idaho's tallest peak, Mt Borah, Boots finally learned what had been lurking in her heart since birth. The road to get to open-heart surgery was long in every way and filled with obstacles all during the pandemic. Now, Boots is thriving and is so excited to launch this podcast in hopes of helping others facing open-heart surgery.Website: The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com)Transcript: Joyful Beat | The Heart Chamber (theheartchamberpodcast.com) The Heart Chamber (@theheartchamberpodcast)Thanks to Michael Moeri for being my right hand man. Michael Moeri - Audio Editor, Podcast Producer and Marketing DirectorThanks to Denise Hardy for your support and believing in me. linkedin.com/in/denise-hardy-30a51086Music by AudioCoffee