But losing my sister in 2016 ultimately led to my health awakening.
In 2016, Jessica, my sister, passed due to cardiac arrest.
Navigating Family History and Impending Diagnosis
I grew up with deep-seated fears of becoming a statistic.
Photo courtesy of Christina Herrera / Owner Zoe Hansen
For me, it started with asking for help during that first appointment.
I advocated for blood work and to have a deeper understanding of how healthy I was.
My cholesterol levels were high, and it was something I needed to work on.
I turned to exercise, some variations to my diet, and left the rest to chance.
I remember asking my healthcare provider, Are you sure I need surgery right now?
And that was the turning point for my health and my well-being.
I started using apps on my phone to understand food labels and how they were collectively molding my diet.
The steps I took were small but intentional.
I was pleasantly surprised along the way by learning how to manage my levels.
My mantra is One choice at a time.
American Heart Association.Cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Healthy living with diabetes.
