Silent Danger: Cody's Aortic Aneurysm and the Importance of Heart Health in Athletics -22 - The Heart Chamber
Listen to the full episode here.
In this episode of The Heart Chamber Podcast, 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 Guest
Cody 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 Cody
Instagram: @cardiac_cody
How to connect with Boots
The Heart Chamber - A podcast for heart patients (theheartchamberpodcast.com)
Email: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.com
Instagram: @theheartchamberpodcast or @boots.knighton
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knighton
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The Heart Chamber - A podcast for heart patients (theheartchamberpodcast.com)
