This post was written by Jill Zahm, MSN, RN, AHN-BC, program coordinator, Parkview Heart Institute.
More than 43 million women in America have been told they have a cardiovascular condition. They’ve all shared the sobering experience of learning that their hearts are not as healthy as they thought. For some, the news comes in dramatic fashion, brought on by an event that led to a trip to the Emergency Room. For others, it’s during a routine appointment. But no matter how you hear of a diagnosis, it doesn’t change the weight of learning that you have heart disease. It doesn’t change the concern over where to go from that moment.
The most important thing to remember, is that you are not alone.
After a life-changing diagnosis, the best thing you can do is find support. This is why the Parkview Heart Institute offers the Her Heart Support Network, facilitated by local women working to provide encouragement, strength and connection. Most importantly, the group provides a safe place to share what you’re feeling with ladies who can understand and relate.
As women, we typically take care of everyone else before ourselves. But once you learn you have heart disease, you can’t put yourself on the backburner. It’s important to connect with other survivors.
It can be hard to explain your feelings to loved ones, and it can be difficult for them to understand what you’re going through. By meeting with other women who have similar experiences, in a safe space, you can share stories, trials and power; yes, power. The Her Heart Support Network provides support and education, and tools to put in your toolbox so that you can take care of yourself and be a woman who lives well and thrives in the face of her diagnosis.
We end each meeting standing tall in our superwoman pose. We say, “I am strong, not because I take care of everyone else, but because I come to support group to gain knowledge and support so that I can take care of me.”
The Her Heart Support Network has gone virtual. If you are interested in joining us, please reach out to Jill Zahm at Jill.Zahm@parkview.com or call 260-266-2444 for more information.