On Valentine's Day, a day that celebrates love, Odette Nelson faced a tragic situation. She details the shocking day she was later diagnosed with ischemic heart disease.
“I was lying at home when I suddenly felt a pain in my left chest. I thought it was just a normal chest pain, but I got up and got ready to go to the hospital. When I arrived at the door, I felt an unbearable pain. I felt severe chest pain and clung to the ground for dear life,” she said. Lifestyle.
She and her husband were rushed to Lioneltown Hospital in Clarendon, where an electrocardiogram (ECG) was performed. What she experienced was a severe heart attack, but there was an even bigger problem.
During his six-day stay in the hospital, Nelson suffered multiple heart attacks. Her tests revealed that she had ischemic heart disease.
“I felt like all hope was lost. I cried because I didn't know about the disease called ischemic heart disease. It was quite stressful because I'm an independent woman who loves to work, but it was… It would be the end of everything for me,” she shared.
Ischemic heart disease is a term that refers to heart problems caused by narrowing of the coronary arteries, “a blockage in the arteries that prevents enough oxygen and blood from reaching the heart,” according to Nelson.
Symptoms she experienced include chest pain, shoulder and neck pain, nausea, and fatigue. She also lost a lot of weight.
“Ever since I was diagnosed, I've felt frustrated, stressed, and depressed. I can't work. I can't do anything around the house, and it's very difficult. It's a hard reality to accept,” Nelson revealed.
This was an expensive process, as healthier diets are expensive, so consulting a nutrition clinic meant this was an expensive process. “But now I have to eat healthier.”
“Current treatment is pretty good. I'm taking a drug called carvedilol and sildentafil.”
She cites her husband and children as her biggest supporters and tries to stay positive, remembering that the Lord is her healer. “His words reassure me that he will never leave me or forsake me. My family will never allow me to grieve or feel bad about my illness. “I'm so happy and overwhelmed by the amazing support system of family, friends, church family, well-wishers and even strangers,” she enthused.
After four more hospitalizations, her long-term goal is to address the disease through surgery. However, this will cost 1.8 million Jamaican dollars. She is asking the public to help in any way they can.
“Ischemic disease is a life-altering disease, but we want you to know that with proper diet, exercise, weight management, and surgery, you can return to a full and productive life.” Others can help by continuing to offer encouragement and kind, positive words,” Nelson added.
krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com