What if a seemingly routine check-up could change the course of your life? Join us on the Empty Nest Quest as we kick off Heart Month with a personal tale of unexpected heart health revelations. This episode is an invitation to explore the nuances of heart health for women, especially during menopause and perimenopause. I share my surprising journey of discovering a congenital heart defect—a bicuspid aortic valve—during a mandatory physical at work. Despite a clean bill of health and no family history, the experience was a wake-up call about the importance of regular check-ups and being mindful of symptoms that might appear trivial.
The conversation deepens with a candid discussion on the critical need for women to champion their own health advocacy. We navigate through personal stories of feeling overlooked by healthcare providers and underline the importance of trusting one's instincts and seeking second opinions. With alarming statistics highlighting heart-related deaths among women, prioritizing personal health becomes more crucial than ever. We wrap up by exploring the emotional journey through major heart surgery and the remarkable advancements in cardiac care, sharing hope for less invasive futures and encouraging proactive stances on health and well-being. Join us as we empower, educate, and support each other in the quest for better heart health.

We want to hear from you! Reach out to us on socials or at [email protected] to share how our conversations are landing with you! xo-Melynda and Jennifer