On Monday of this week I had a heart attack.

[Solly Mack]

Felt the first signs around 5:00 PM and got to the ER by 5:30 PM.

From then on it was a madhouse of needles and machines and people surrounding me. I was lucid the entire time. No oxygen deprivation. Lots of pain. I'm a woman and our pain is usually in the jaw, neck, shoulders and then down the arms. I experienced excruciating pain in my jaw.

The hospital wasn't equipped for cardiac trauma so they needed to find me a hospital that could take care of me.

The first closest hospital with a cardiac trauma center. They said "All full" - Covid-19 patients.

Then the next hospital in the same city, also with a cardiac care center - but not a Top Level Trauma unit for Cardiac patients like the first hospital - also said "All full" - Covid-19 patients.

This state has a system in place that sends calls all over in search of the needed medical care required. It's a one call system from the ER and then the system kicks in to do the search and call-backs.

Time is important with a heart attack as everyone knows.

Time was ticking away at this point.

I got to the ER early enough. I was getting emergency treatment early enough - but now, thanks to the unvaccinated, I was put on hold.

People in the middle of having an heart attack don't need additional stress and I was already terrified.

Not 10 minutes later the first hospital called back to say they would take me.

Yay!

Then they couldn't find transport. That's right - ambulances all busy or already transporting someone else and there was a wait time.

Great.

The people in my ER worked fast, reached out, and got permission for me to get medevaced by the military.

I was at a military hospital but civilians aren't on the approved list of people to medevac - not even spouses of military retirees. Not even in an emergency.

Did I mention the weather was bad? Hurricane Nicholas dumping rain on my part of Louisiana.

But the medevac team was willing and ready.

I had to wear ear plugs and goggles.

I wanted to keep my eyes closed during the ride but my medic wouldn't allow it.

He kept nudging me and miming questions.

We engaged in multiple rounds of thumbs-up.

Twenty minutes later we were touching down and another care team took over.

More needles, more machines, more people and an early morning angioplasty/stent(early Tuesday). They went through my wrist. Single stent, one clot.

Room on the Cardio Trauma floor and then moved to "regular" ICU later that evening.

Multiple imagining done of heart over 24 hours.

Cardio Doc said I got in early enough and they got to me early enough that damage was minuscule and limited to artery where stent was placed. Heart muscles were good.

On Wednesday morning I got to come home - with lots of and lots of medicines.

I have a blood clot disorder stemming from treatment and surgeries related to my cancer from a few years ago and I slacked off on some good habits during the year long Covid-19 lock-down here. It's opened up more here but I still avoid people and places - but I didn't get back into my necessary good habits.

Medicine can only do so much of the work.

So, I'm a dumbass. But a fully vaccinated dumbass.

I was lying in the ER, calling myself all kinds of stupid, and reflecting on how my stupid might not kill me (yet) but the stupid of others was going to do me in - if I can't get the necessary treatment I required.

Thankfully, a lot of good things happened. Most importantly, excellent and caring medical professionals, from start to finish, who were determined to keep my dumbass alive.

I've been taking it easy, eating a heart-healthy diet, and working on not being stupid.

That last one is the hardest.

[Hugh_Lebowski]

1. Well that sounds terrifying! Glad you're okay and it worked out!

Take care

[Solly Mack]

51. Thank you, Hugh_Lebowski

[Vinca]

2. Wow! What a nightmare to go through. I'm glad you not only survived, but seem

to be doing well. It must have been horribly frightening when they couldn't find a hospital and then a transport. Let's hear it for helicopters! Take care.

[blm]

16. Solly is made of tougher stuff than me.

My heart wouldn’t have made it through the helicopter trip through a driving rain.

So happy that Our Solly endured.

[Vinca]

22. I know - just the helicopter would have scared me to death. Solly's a toughie.

[blm]

26. AND a sweetie.

😉💕

[Solly Mack]

53. Thanks, Vinca. I was so terrified. The "Dust-Off" team were excellent.

All my doctors, nurses, techs, and aides were incredible.

[Ocelot II]

3. Holy crap, what a terrifying experience!

It would have been bad enough without the covidiots taking up all the hospital space, but OMG... And your experience is being repeated all over the country - and sadly, far too often without your good outcome. Take good care of yourself, since too many other people (other than your excellent medical people) apparently don't give a damn.

[Solly Mack]

55. I worked to not get angry about the "All Full" call-backs. But those added to my terror.

I was lucky. Very lucky. I am so grateful.

[Shrike47]

4. Wow! Glad there was so little apparent long-term damage but sounds painful and terrifying.

You will be back to good life style habits soon.

[Solly Mack]

56. Thanks, Shrike!

I'm working on it.

[Sogo]

5. Glad to hear that you finally got treated!

I have no more Fs to give about the unvaccinated, especially now that they're clogging up the hospitals and delaying care for such as yourself.

Take care and wishing you a speedy recovery.

[Solly Mack]

57. Thank you, Sogo.

A young woman, 19, was expected to die from Covid-19 the Tuesday I was moved to ICU. I heard the nurses talking and a few of them were crying.

[JohnSJ]

6. Thanks for sharing this. Wishing you all the best, and sorry what you had to go through

[Solly Mack]

58. Thank you, JohnSJ

[tblue37]

7. Glad you're still with us! Take care of yourself, Solly Mack. DU needs you.

[Solly Mack]

59. Thanks, tblue37

I need DU too.

[Quakerfriend]

8. Wow! So glad you made it through all that!

And, with the storm in town too 😇

[Solly Mack]

60. Thank you, Quakerfriend.

I was already afraid of riding in the helicopter and then the added rain and wind. Why I wanted to keep my eyes closed.

[LisaL]

9. We can thank all the un-vaxxed covidiots for filling up hospitals

and depriving people with other issues of medical care. Glad you weren't one of their victims.

[Solly Mack]

63. Me, too! Thanks, LisaL.

[SheltieLover]

10. {{{{{SOLLY!}}}}}

I am so sorry you went through this, but am most thankful for your medical team's diligence!

I've been thinking of you lately, what with yet another rounf of awful weather in your area.

[Solly Mack]

64. Thanks, SheltieLover

I hafta admit to not worrying about the recent storm until I had to get on that helicopter.

[SheltieLover]

79. Omg!

That whole experience had to be terrifying!

[UpInArms]

11. Am so very glad you are on the mend

Stay well, you are loved and needed

[Solly Mack]

65. Thank you, UpInArms

[Scrivener7]

12. Oh, wow. That sounds absolutely awful. But I'm glad it was only minimally damaging.

And glad you are home and away from what sounds like a terrifying ordeal.

Stay well.

[Solly Mack]

66. Thanks, Scrivener7

I'm going to try.

[blm]

13. Oh sweetie

😘💐

[Solly Mack]

67. Hey, blm. It was so terrifying.

I was scared and all these faces were staring down at me and tugging at different parts of my body. They finally gave me a small amount of morphine for the pain and that helped. Less pain helped me cope.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

14. Oh my dear Solly Mack! I'm so grateful you got through this and will be well!

How scary that must have been. I cannot even imagine!

And you are NOT stupid. Not even close. We all get complacent and neglect ourselves. Being constantly vigilant is very difficult.

Be good to yourself! You matter.

[Solly Mack]

69. Thank you, CaliforniaPeggy.

I'm hoping I can do better and stay well.

[Totally Tunsie]

15. That's terrifying, Solly Mack! Glad to hear you're home and safe.

Please do not feel you need to do something like this just to give us a firsthand report on the status of hospitals...you're too much a part of DU to go through such risk! This is "above and beyond".

[Solly Mack]

70. Ha! Thanks, Totally Tunsie.

It was kind of surreal to be caught up in something I had only read about.

My first response was "Seriously?".

[panader0]

17. Wow! What a scary experience. I'm glad that you had good care. Mend up tout suite!

[Solly Mack]

71. Thanks, panader0.

[peggysue2]

18. So glad to hear you're okay

What a nightmare and a vivid example of the medical chaos being wreaked because of the unvaccinated.

Take care of yourself!

[Solly Mack]

73. Thank you, peggysue2

I'm trying. My husband has been a big help.

[niyad]

19. Hat a terrifying ordeal. So very glad that you got the care you needed, even though

delayed due to the stupid covidiots. Hugs and best wishes for full recovery.

[Solly Mack]

76. Thanks, niyad

It was unreal to hear that the closest help was "All full". Just unreal.

[ProfessorGAC]

20. Sheesh! What An Ordeal!

Hope you get better very soon, Solly.

[Solly Mack]

77. Thanks, ProfessorGAC

I'm napping more. lol

[hlthe2b]

21. A difficult & frightening experience but one that came out as positive as could be hoped.

I'm so glad for you, Solly Mack.

[Solly Mack]

78. Thank you, hlthe2b

I was lucky. Great people helping me.

And really good insurance.

[MissMillie]

23. Health care is a nightmare in this country right now

even for people with insurance.

We spend the most on health care, and have the worst results. And that was BEFORE Covid.

I'm glad you finally got the care you needed and I hope you are on the road to full recovery.

[Solly Mack]

81. Thanks, MissMillie. You're so right!

I've got Tri-Care and that meant nothing - that's how bad it is right now. I could pay and I was still being told "No".

[sheshe2]

24. That sounds terrifying.

You had a great team working for you, including the medevac people.

Get well soon, Solly.

[Solly Mack]

82. Thanks, she.

I'm going to do my best.

[louslobbs]

25. I am so glad that you survived this horrible situation

Your life was put at additional risk because of the disgusting and selfish among us. I’m hoping for your full recovery….please take care❤️

[Solly Mack]

83. Thanks, louslobbs

I'm grateful it worked out the way it did. I was very lucky.

[davsand]

27. Glad you are able to tell us you will be ok.

It's too easy to read the news reports and articles about what's happening in the hospitals and lose sight of the impact of those reported COVID cases on every other sick person who doesn't have COVID but needs a hospital. Hearing from you about what you faced tends to be visceral for everyone here who knows you and has known you for a very long time.

I'm glad you are on the mend, and I'm incredibly delighted you will probably bounce back from your heart attack without long term damage. Take care, and heal up quickly. I honestly can't imagine how very scary it was.





Laura

[Solly Mack]

85. Thank you, davsand

I never once thought I'd be caught up in what is happening now with health care and full hospitals. You know it's happening. You know it could happen. You just don't see yourself in those stories.

Until you do.

[livetohike]

28. So sorry for all you went through and so glad you are

here to tell us about it! Hope you feel back to normal soon .

[Solly Mack]

86. Thanks, livetohike

[malaise]

29. You've had enough stress to have a heart attack

I can only say I am delighted that you fought hard and are still here

[Solly Mack]

87. No kidding. They asked me about stress and I almost laughed.

Thanks, malaise.

[malaise]

30. You've had enough stress to have a heart attack

I can only say I am delighted that you fought hard and are still here

[Demsrule86]

31. That sounds awful...good thing you had so many trying to save you...I am glad there was

so little damage and I hope you feel better soon. Don't beat yourself up about 'being stupid' in terms of things you should do for your health. We are all 'stupid' in this way at least sometimes...it is the human condition. Feel better and Prayers and good wishes coming your way.

[Solly Mack]

88. Thanks, Demsrule86

I'm hoping for the best.

[llashram]

32. anti-vaxxers

infuriating in the extreme...may you convalesce well

[Solly Mack]

89. Thanks, llashram. My husband could be heard from the lobby cursing about the lack of space.

[cally]

33. With tears in my eyes, so thankful you got great care

We live in such terrifying times. Glad you are recovering

[Solly Mack]

93. Thank you, cally.

I was lucky but so many others weren't and won't be in the near future.

[mahina]

34. Holy cats Solly! Please be so safe.

Sending you aloha.

[Solly Mack]

94. Thanks, mahina

I'm gonna try.

[SergeStorms]

35. Whew! What an ordeal.

I'm glad you finally got the treatment you needed.

I think it was fortunate that you were medevaced to a military hospital. The other hospitals are so full of COVID patients I'd be worried about catching a break through case of COVID. You certainly don't need that right now!

Best of luck, Solly. Make sure you're well before they release you from service.

[Solly Mack]

98. Thanks, SergeStorms

I was worried about a breakthrough case the whole time. They tested me twice at the Cardio Trauma center and it was negative both times.

I was medevaced from a military hospital. Not a big hospital.

[SergeStorms]

161. Oh, alright.

I try to read the posts quickly, and sometimes my reading comprehension suffers. I'd better slow down a little.

In any case, get well soon, and return to a more healthy regimen. Take care.

[flying_wahini]

36. Glad they were able to take you at the Original and then to the next hospital.

You are Not a dumbass. You are just human like the rest of us.

I get Sooooo angry when I think of all the people that are vaccinated and unable to get into hospitals for help.

[Solly Mack]

99. Thank you, flying_wahini

It was unnerving to hear I couldn't just go get the help I needed because of them being full.

[littlemissmartypants]

37. Wow! That's crazy, Solly Mack! I'm so glad you are OK now!

Please take care of yourself. ❤

[Solly Mack]

100. Thanks, littlemissmartypants

It was crazy for the first 12 hours or so but I was scared the whole time.

[MiHale]

38. Heart and stroke patient here too...

You put to words my biggest fear for my wife (stroke) and myself (both).
So glad you came out the right side. Take care.

[Solly Mack]

102. Thank you, MiHale

I hope the two of you never have to hear that "All full".

Unreal feeling. Terrifying. Too scared to be angry.

[CrispyQ]

39. To not get the urgent care you need because of a bunch of ignorant jerks...

I can't imagine how scary & stressful the whole experience must have been! So glad you're still with us, Solly! Positive thoughts & vibes for a quick recovery!

[Solly Mack]

103. Thanks, CrispyQ. I got lucky. My husband wondered if someone died in those 10 minutes that got me

my room.

I hate to think that way but I'm just glad I got the space to get treatment.

[Karadeniz]

40. Terrifying post, but one we need! I'd never heard of the jaw pain symptom!

[Solly Mack]

106. Women are different that way and they need to know how it works on them.

Because a lot of people would overlook jaw pain - but I knew, so.

Thankfully.

[Backseat Driver]

208. I have a coronary stent; never felt any jaw pain

I would describe mine more like an unusually quick and non-lasting sore choking throat, too low to be oral but not quite thoracic either - Urgent care said I had experienced an earlier very small event on EKG and wanted to call the squad. DH insisted he drive me to nearest hospital; later transferred that day to larger hospital for treatment with stent via groin placement. Hospital said there was a 75% flapping occlusion in the coronary artery and DM2 as well. Huh, I said? All good since with weight loss, partial WFPB-diet changes, and supplement additions. F-bigPharma's life-long drugs; let food be thy medicine, where possible. Best wishes on your recovery and commitment to cardiac wellness.

Fully vaccinated and awaiting that booster green light!

[Solly Mack]

244. I had neck pain, to include the throat, as well a chest tightening and nausea but nothing

was worse than the jaw.

And it started with the jaw and radiated down.

Thanks, again!

[Tree Lady]

41. So glad they were able to help you in time

I am starting a sugar and flour detox this week because my blood pressure is up and weight from eating too many carbs and sweets. And your right changing to a healthy diet when others around you are eating fun stuff is hard.

The social situations will be the most challenging but it has to be done. I keep thinking if I don't my health will get worse.

[Solly Mack]

107. Me, too! Thanks, Tree Lady.

A good diet can help in so many ways.

[Srkdqltr]

42. Virtual hugs. What an awful time.

Made me tear up while reading. Hugs.🤗🤗🤗

[Solly Mack]

109. I'm sorry! Thanks, Srkdqltr.

[a kennedy]

43. Damn Solly Mack......

so happy it finally worked for you…..

[Solly Mack]

110. Me, too. Thanks, a kennedy

I was fortunate.

[LeftInTX]

44. Oh my! So glad you're OK

What an ordeal

[Solly Mack]

111. Thanks, LeftInTX

I don't recommend it for anyone.

[mountain grammy]

45. OMG OMG OMG

I can't even get through this without exploding.. I'm so happy you're alive, home and recovering. Please, please, please recover and feel better soon. Hope the damn weather improves.

[Solly Mack]

112. Thanks, mountain grammy

It was very scary but a lot of good people helped me.

[packman]

46. Damn, makes me angry

Makes me want to go out and shout at someone.

Don't let the stress of what those ass-wipes did to you. Heal well

[Solly Mack]

114. Thanks, packman

I was too scared, really, to be angry at the time. My husband on the other hand.

[DENVERPOPS]

47. I am thankful you were able to get help, finally.

You have pointed out the true tragedy and worst aspect of the antivaxers being treated at the expense of the ones who get the vaccines and who suffer some true medical emergency.....

I would hate to be the Triage person in these hospitals across the nation. Or for that matter ANY caregiver forced to take care of an antivaxer before the people who need emergency care for anything other than the Covid Virus.

People who have MI's, strokes, automobile accidents are going to bear the brunt of the antivaxer's stubborn and idiotic ignorance.......

Just for reference, when I had my MI, from the time I called 911 to the Cath Lab having the first stent in place was 39 minutes.
Of course, that was prior to the Covid Virus. But it goes to show the efficiency of our emergency care system when not torpedoed by the misinformed screwing up the entire system.....

A certain group of caregivers, surgeons, nurses, equipment, etc in every hospital should be held in reserve & segregated, (and a number of ICU rooms) and held aside on standby for non covid emergencies. I am surprised that Hospitals aren't already doing this across the entire U.S. of A.........

It is absolutely ludicrous to require all 100% of the critical care equipment and personnel be devoted to the non vax crowd.
That is what is happening in the case of Covid/Hospitals and needs to be changed..............

As a side note, I would also venture a guess that a large amount of the costs of caring for these un-vaccinaed people will be un-recoverable by the Hospitals.......(and added on to the patient's bills who are insured or have money)

Also, if someone TRULY can't be vaccinated for a medical condition, (and not including religious zealotry), they are excluded from my rant.

And anyone not vaccinating their children, for purely political reasons, should be charged with Child Abuse..........

[Solly Mack]

116. Thanks, DENVERPOPS

This is a rural area on top of everything else, so that was also working against me.

But I still feel lucky that it worked out. Lot of wonderful people helping me.

[bigtree]

48. damn!

...glad to hear you're doing better.

Best wishes for better health.

[Solly Mack]

117. Thanks, bigtree.

[appalachiablue]

49. Sorry you had such an ordeal & glad that things

went well despite obstacles during this time of crisis.

What an ordeal, you deserve a medal for strength and courage. Take good care and have a steady, successful recovery. Keep in touch!

[Solly Mack]

118. Thanks, appalachiablue

[Hekate]

50. ((((Solly Mack))))

Get well soon — DU needs you!

[Solly Mack]

122. Thank you, Hekate

I need DU, too.

[HAB911]

52. OMG

TAKE CARE

[Solly Mack]

123. Thanks, HAB911

[lagomorph777]

54. I hope your recovery continues smoothly!

I see plenty of evidence in your story that you are not a dumbass! You're human, but aren't we all (not counting Republicans of course).

[Solly Mack]

124. Thanks, lagomorph777

But I feel like a dumbass. lol

Thanks!

[smirkymonkey]

61. OMG Solly! I am so sorry you had to go through something so frightening and then

such an ordeal to get treated! I am so glad things worked out for you and so grateful to the healthcare professionals who took good care of you!

And so effing angry at those stupid, worthless unvaccinated idiots who are taking up valuable healthcare space and resources which is preventing people like you and others from getting the urgent care they need precisely when they need it. I am not even going to say what I feel like saying because it's awful.

I am just glad to hear that you survied and that you are on the mend. Please take care of yourself. Sending good vibes and healing thoughts!

[Solly Mack]

125. Thank you, smirkymonkey

To be honest, I was too scared to be angry at the time. Just felt so unreal to be told no room for me.

[eggplant]

62. Fifteen years since mine, welcome to the club!

Glad you are on the other side of it. Feel free to DM if you ever want to talk.

All my best.

[Solly Mack]

126. Thanks, eggplant

I will. Already had an after-procedure meltdown of tears. The Cardio PA held my hand and let me cry it out.

Thanks, again!

[eggplant]

178. At your pace.

There's a lot to go through. I'm happy to listen.

[Solly Mack]

247. Thanks. It is.

[SheilaAnn]

68. My heart goes out to you and hoping your good habits kick in for a quick recovery. Good luck and

stay well.

[Solly Mack]

127. Thanks, SheilaAnn

I'm working on it.

[Kali]

72. OMG

I am so glad you are still here.

[Solly Mack]

128. Me, too! :o)

Thanks, Kali!

[ancianita]

74. Glad you're alive, Solly. Humans can be such a mix of stupidity and greatness, and you came out

ahead of their mess.

Keep on keepin' on.

[Solly Mack]

129. Thanks, ancianita

[Nevilledog]

75. Holy Crap!

I'm so glad things didn't go much worse....sounds scary as hell though.

[Solly Mack]

130. Thank you, Nevilledog

[elleng]

80. :grouphug: for our

fully vaccinated dumbass.

[Solly Mack]

131. lololol! I needed that!

Thank you, elleng!

LMAO

[elleng]

142. GOOD, Sweetie!

[XanaDUer2]

84. Get well soon nt

[Solly Mack]

132. Thank you, XanaDUer2

[Yorkie Mom]

90. Dang! I'm so glad you are okay.

Wishing you a speedy recovery from Kentucky! Take care of yourself!!

[Solly Mack]

133. Thanks, Yorkie Mom

[colorado_ufo]

91. So glad that you are all right!

And by the way, this was so very well written! I was completely absorbed by your story.

[Solly Mack]

135. Thanks, colorado_ufo

That was very kind of you to say.

[sarge43]

92. Holding you close, Solly. Be well

Hellva story.

Damn those A-holes who refuse the vacc. They should be the ones kicked to the end of the line.

[Solly Mack]

137. Thank you, sarge43

I agree. They should go to the back of the line but I also think those wonderful people taking care of me probably wouldn't agree with that.

[Kid Berwyn]

95. Get well soon, Solly Mack!

You’re one of the last people I’d ever call a dumbass.

[Solly Mack]

138. Thanks, Kid Berwyn

And thank you for the other, too.

lol

[JohnnyRingo]

96. Oh my Solly!!

I hope you're stable and comfortable now. Such stress certainly wasn't good for, and Im sure it was compounded by knowing who the idiots were that clogged your route to recovery.
Let me curse them while you rest. We love you and want you to get better soon. Keep us posted.

[Solly Mack]

139. Thanks, JohnnyRingo

I honestly didn't expect to hear "All full". Unreal. Just so unreal.

Love you too!

[NurseJackie]

97. ...

[Solly Mack]

141. Thank you, NurseJackie

backatcha!

[barbtries]

101. I'm so glad it all worked out for you!

gawd DAMN all these covidiots.

[Solly Mack]

143. Thank you, barbtries. I got lucky.

My husband figured someone must have died in those 10 minutes to get me space.

[barbtries]

190. sadly,

he's likely to be correct about that.

[Solly Mack]

245. I think so too. There was a young woman, 19, that they expected to die my first night

on the Cardio Trauma Floor.

Covid-19, unvaccinated.

[barbtries]

258. that's so sad.

every time I hear one of these stories, and they are very frequent, I think about 2 young women in particular. one is the daughter of one of my best friends and the other my grandson's girlfriend. willfully ignorant and unvaccinated.

[Fla Dem]

104. Terrifying experience. I'm glad the damage was minor, but please take care of yourself.

[Solly Mack]

145. Thanks, Fla Dem

Gonna try.

[Fla Dem]

105. Terrifying experience. I'm glad the damage was minor, but please take care of yourself.

[trof]

108. What an ordeal!

Glad you're back.

[Solly Mack]

146. Thanks, trof. Me, too. Need a nap now.

Typing is wearing me out.

[trof]

187. Take care of yourself.

[Behind the Aegis]

113. Oh Solly!

You know how I feel about you.



(sent a PM)

[Solly Mack]

147. Hey, you! I adore you!

[DinahMoeHum]

115. Unvaccinated "Covidiots": Bunch of lame motherfuckers.

Thank goodness you're OK.

[Solly Mack]

149. Thank you, DinahMoeHum

They are making it worse for everyone else and they don't care.

[Wicked Blue]

119. Wishing you a speedy and complete recovery

[Solly Mack]

150. Thank you, Wicked Blue

[CaptainTruth]

120. I'm so glad you're ok!!!

I will never forget what antivaxxers have done to innocent Americans.

[Solly Mack]

151. Thank you, CaptainTruth.

They don't care.

[PatrickforB]

121. Glad to hear you are OK. Definitely eat heart healthy! :)

My hope is the new vaccine mandate will help things along vis-a-vis the covidiots hogging ICU beds. Anyway, very best wishes to you!

[Solly Mack]

154. Thank you, PatrickforB

I am. Got the recipe book from the Heart Association and making meals using it.

[Liberty Belle]

134. What a nightmare. I don't undertstand why Covidiots are given priority over heart attack patients.

Those who refused vaccines should be refused admission when others need ICU beds, in my view.

I am so glad you survived and got care in time.

I'm thinking a lawsuit from the family of someone who doesn't survive may be in order, or perhaps a class action to force hospitals to change their priorities. I'm no lawyer, but surely there is something that can be done to make the system more equitable.

[Solly Mack]

156. Thank you, Liberty Belle

I don't know what the answer is but something needs to be done and done sooner rather than too late.

[WhiskeyGrinder]

136. Solly Mack, my stomach dropped when I read this subject line and saw it was from you.

Sending you strength and courage! Rest well!

[Solly Mack]

158. Thank you, WhiskeyGrinder

[COL Mustard]

140. Don't Beat Yourself Up

Calling yourself a dumbass doesn't help. Stop it!

Glad you recognized the signs, and glad you got treated quickly. Now take care of yourself, but give yourself a break!!!

[Solly Mack]

160. Yes, Sir. :)

Thanks, COL Mustard.

[Larissa]

144. Happy that you are okay

Keep taking care of yourself. It must always come first before anything else.

[Solly Mack]

163. Thank you, Larissa

I will.

[spanone]

148. I'm so glad you're okay Solly Mack

Whew, what an ordeal.

[Solly Mack]

165. Thanks, spanone

It was but thankfully a lot of great people were there for me.

[babylonsister]

152. Ah jeeze, Solly...

so sorry you went through all that. Thanks for your public service in describing what you experienced.

So take care of yourself!!

[Solly Mack]

166. Thanks, babylonsister.

I will.

[SidDithers]

153. Jeez, Solly. Feed better soon!...

All the best.
Sid

[Solly Mack]

167. Thank you, Sid

[BootinUp]

155. Hope I'm not speaking out of place when I say

You are one of the smartest posters at DU, and glad to hear you are ok. Don’t be too hard on yourself.

[Solly Mack]

168. Thank you, BootinUp

I'll take the compliment.

[murielm99]

157. I am glad you made it through and are still here with us!

[Solly Mack]

170. Me, too! Thank you, murielm99.

[brer cat]

159. I'm so glad they were able to finally get you in for treatment.

Follow orders and get better soon!

[Solly Mack]

171. Thanks, brer cat. Yes, Ma'am!

[Texasgal]

162. Oh My Goodness!!!

That sounds terrifying!

I am so glad you are OKAY!

Get rest, and treat yourself well.

[Solly Mack]

172. Thank you, Texasgal

I will! I'll try anyway.

[Happy Hoosier]

164. Make sure the "heart-healthy" diet they gave you is really heart healthy!

There has been lots of change here over the last couple years. Saturated fats are not eh boogeyman once thought and vegetable oils like Safflower and Canola oils are not the good guys. Even the Journal of the American College of Cardiologists now recognize this.

"The recommendation to limit dietary saturated fatty acid (SFA) intake has persisted despite mounting evidence to the contrary. Most recent meta-analyses of randomized trials and observational studies found no beneficial effects of reducing SFA intake on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and total mortality, and instead found protective effects against stroke. Although SFAs increase low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, in most individuals, this is not due to increasing levels of small, dense LDL particles, but rather larger LDL particles, which are much less strongly related to CVD risk. It is also apparent that the health effects of foods cannot be predicted by their content in any nutrient group without considering the overall macronutrient distribution. Whole-fat dairy, unprocessed meat, and dark chocolate are SFA-rich foods with a complex matrix that are not associated with increased risk of CVD. The totality of available evidence does not support further limiting the intake of such foods"

https://www.jacc.org/doi/abs/10.1016/j.jacc.2020.05.077

I wish you a speedy recovery!

[Solly Mack]

173. Thank you for the info! Much appreciated! Thanks, Happy Hoosier

[StarryNite]

169. Thank goodness you made it!

[Solly Mack]

174. Thanks, StarryNite

[Snackshack]

175. Glad your doing good.

Yep, don’t close your eyes

Take Care of You!

[Solly Mack]

177. Thanks, Snackshack

But I was scared and needed to close them. Oh, but no. He wouldn't let me. lol

[DFW]

176. Been sorta there, done sorta that

You're right, that last one is the hardest.

[Solly Mack]

179. Yeah. I'll be giving that last one a lick and a promise.

[DFW]

180. Last time I did that successfully

It was to a postage stamp

[Solly Mack]

246. Heh! Count your wins!

[ananda]

181. Please stay with us, Solly.

You are such a jewel here.

[Solly Mack]

211. I'm going to try. Thank you, ananda.

[seta1950]

182. Take it easy

I hope you feel better soon

[Solly Mack]

212. Thank you, seta1950

I took a nap earlier. Helped along those lines.

[Hortensis]

183. Sighing about exercise has to be a sign of good recovery.

I only moan about it when I should be up and at it.

Glad to hear you're doing so good. If my family's an indication, surviving your first heart attack means at least another 25-30 years of exercise to come.

[Solly Mack]

213. I enjoy walking. Always something new to see.

I'll take those 25-30 years and then some. I'm greedy.

[Hortensis]

255. Me too for walking. A friend who's

farmed and kept horses all her life prefers treadmilling in front of her TV. To each their own.

Happy Saturday.

[Blue Owl]

184. How horrible...

So glad that you made it through and I hope it never happens again...

[Solly Mack]

214. Thanks, Blue Owl. You and me both.

[BigmanPigman]

185. What were the so called "stupid" things you did

which may have led to this, diet and exercise?

[Solly Mack]

215. Oh, now. I admit to being stupid. I'm not going to list the many ways. lol

[denbot]

186. Holy shit dude..

Stay tuff..

[Solly Mack]

216. Thanks, denbot

Squishy but resolved, I am.

[denbot]

224. squishy but resolved, we be.

[kcr]

188. How terrifying

I'm glad you're back and are doing better

[Solly Mack]

217. Thank you, kcr.

[Sucha NastyWoman]

189. So glad you made it Solly Mack

And the anti-vaxxers didn’t cause another victim.

[Solly Mack]

218. Thanks, Sucha NastyWoman

I'm glad I got that space. It's a whole other level of fear to be told no room for you.

[crickets]

191. I am so sorry to hear about this,

but also so grateful that circumstances worked out and you received the proper care in time. Do take care of yourself and get better soon, Solly Mack!

[Solly Mack]

219. Thank you, crickets

[3catwoman3]

192. Kudos to the military folks for being willing to step outside the usual guidelines.

What base are you near?

As someone else commented, you told your story very well - I could feel your fear.

Please take care.

[Solly Mack]

220. Thank you, 3catwoman3

I'm near Leesville, LA. , Fort Polk.

[Soph0571]

193. So glad you're home

Take care my love and fuck the covidiots that make it so hard.

That is all

[Solly Mack]

221. Thanks, Soph0571

They were making it worse and it could have been much worse because of them.

[femmedem]

194. I'm so relieved you survived this, dear Solly Mack.

Kudos to the medical professionals who, despite being overworked and exhausted from dealing with covid, worked so hard to make sure you got the care you needed.

Thank you, too, for sharing your experience. I knew that women's cardiac symptoms were different than men's but I was a little fuzzy about exactly what a heart attack might feel like for me.

Also: there are very few of us who don't make dumb decisions about our health. It might be what we eat, it might be too little sleep, it might be sitting for too many hours a day. But it isn't really dumb. It's modern life. You and I have both been on DU long enough for me to know that you are anything but a dumbass.

[Solly Mack]

223. Thank you, femmedem

I am grateful for all the dedicated people who helped me.

Different women still have different symptoms first within that range. We just have to know that it's not the chest-arm pain with us - it's the jaw, neck/throat, arms - even the tongue with us. The chest does feel tight but the other pains hit first. For me, the jaw was the absolute worst.

I hope you never know the feeling though. Never have to go through it.

[FailureToCommunicate]

195. With hospitals in Idaho full of new covid vax hestitant idiots, some official there said...

Last edited Sat Sep 18, 2021, 08:21 AM - Edit history (1)

residents should "refrain from taking any unnecessary chances, or engaging in risky behavior...like driving, sports, exercise, travel...ANYTHING that might cause you to end up needing to go to a hospital. Because they are already full".

What an insane country we (some of us) have become.

Glad you were able to find a hospital with room, and that things are turning out okay for you!

[Solly Mack]

225. Oh, wow. It is a very scary time now. Thank you, FailureToCommunicate

[Hassin Bin Sober]

196. Wow. So glad you are doing well!

A little wake up call.

Kinda jealous of the ride on a military helicopter. That would be cool. But without the heart attack thingy!

[Solly Mack]

226. Thanks, Hassin Bin Sober.

It might have been cool without everything else. The nurses fought to ride with me. They enjoy the flying.

[Crunchy Frog]

197. I'm so glad the Covidiots didn't kill you. Feel better soon.

[Solly Mack]

227. Me, too, Crunchy Frog. Me, too. Thanks!

[NH Ethylene]

198. What a nightmare!

I'm so glad it all worked out well. It sounds like that is thanks to some amazing medical people.

I hope you are up and about soon!

[Solly Mack]

228. Thank you, NH Ethylene

They were truly wonderful people. I was fortunate.

[PoindexterOglethorpe]

199. I had a serious heart attack of my own back in December.

Even though the symptoms were classic (despite my screen name I'm female): chest pain, nausea and vomiting, I was so concerned about Covid that a heart attack didn't enter into my consciousness. I was also hesitant to go to the hospital for fear they'd be so overwhelmed with Covid patients that they couldn't take me.

Fortunately, the hospital was not overwhelmed, and as soon as I got there they knew exactly what was going on. Within an hour I'd had a stent and was on my way to a medical unit. Lucky me. Only one artery was blocked, although it was blocked 100%. No blockage of any kind elsewhere.

I'd started losing excess weight back last summer, and was already down about 25 pounds in December. I've continued to lose weight, and I'll proudly say that my BMI has gone from 32.2 to 22.9, from obese to normal.

My overall health has always been excellent, and for me, the heart attack didn't at all change my opinion of myself as a very healthy person. For what it's worth, heart disease is rampant in my family, so this really wasn't too much of a surprise.

So hang in there. We are all capable of being stupid at times. Don't beat yourself up, just make whatever changes are necessary. Hugs and love ya

[Solly Mack]

230. Thank you, PoindexterOglethorpe.

Oh, wow. Glad you are doing so well and your attitude is something I need to adopt.

I became nauseated but never actually sick. Cold, clammy, and just plain miserable as well.

[PoindexterOglethorpe]

240. I was incredibly fortunate.

The different symptoms are interesting. I did not get cold and clammy. Just had classic chest pain along with nausea and vomiting. I live in Santa Fe, NM, and we have wonderful cardiologists here, mainly because we also have a lot of old people here.

I was able to get someone I already knew as my official cardiologist, which was nice. I'd met that man socially a while back, and when I had the heart attack and the hospital was assigning a cardiologist to me, I was able to say, "I'd like to have Tim (last name redacted)" and of course that was fine.

For me, the most important thing is that I have for many years considered myself the healthiest person I know. I don't do flu shots (that's NOT a recommendation that you shouldn't get them) mainly because I got flu any number of times growing up, including the 1957 Hong Kong flu.

I will absolutely add that I got a Covid shot back in March. The Johnson & Johnson, one and done. I feel quite well protected. I'm also retired, can limit my interaction with others. I also live in northern New Mexico where people are very good about masking.

[Niagara]

200. I signed your card on California Peggy's OP.

Still sending you healing vibes. Do what your instructed to do by your team. We need you.

[Solly Mack]

231. Thanks, Niagara

I didn't know there was a card. Bless, California Peggy. She's a wonderful person.

I'll go look.

[Mr.Bill]

201. First I've seen of this thread.

I've been driving all day. So glad to hear you got the medical treatment you needed. Sending good thoughts your way for a quick and full recovery.

[Solly Mack]

232. Thank you, Mr.Bill

[question everything]

202. Thumb up for the medical personnel. To find a hospital and to get the military to cooperate

Good to know that there is still hope for us.

Get well soon

[Solly Mack]

233. Thank you, question everything

I was very fortunate.

[zuul]

203. So glad you are okay!

Please keep us updated on your recovery! Sending lots of:

[Solly Mack]

234. Thanks, zuul. Hope you're doing OK! How is it going your way?

[calimary]

204. That's one helluva story, Solly Mack!

Thanks for letting us know. Details like these are so important to understanding the full ordeal. Even when it ultimately ends happily.

[Solly Mack]

235. Thank you, calimary

You read about things happening around the US but never really expect to be part of the story. Until you are...

[marble falls]

205. Hooly mooly. Get up and sin no more!

[Solly Mack]

236. That's asking a lot. Thanks, marble falls.

[marble falls]

261. You can get back a lot of what was almost lost, you're a DUer and we can do the right things!

[TygrBright]

206. I am so glad you're still with us, Solly! n/t

[Solly Mack]

237. Thanks, TygrBright

I will admit to being glad as well.

[samplegirl]

207. Damn Solly!!!

So glad your able to journal all of this!
Your anything but a dumbass! So glad your home and hopefully recouping!
I’m so tired of hearing about the inconsideration of what Covid is doing to people that deserve the help they need when they need it!
Please take care of yourself an know im thinking of you.
Sending you a virtual hug!

[Solly Mack]

238. Thank you, samplegirl

I don't know how deserving I am but I am ever so grateful for everyone who worked to keep me alive and get me the treatment I needed.

[BobTheSubgenius]

209. I should probably be more concerned about being in the same boat than I am.

THANKFULLY, enough dominoes fell that you were able to get where you needed to be, but, if I understand what you said (and I'm sure I do, it was clear enough) it was by no means a sure thing. Every step of the way was fraught, and there was no small measure of determination on the part of many to pull you through.

I had 2 valves and a chunk of muscle removed in 2010, and, at that time, the cardiac center in one of our 2 major hospitals has a stellar record. By outcome, the best in Canada, and 3rd best in NA. It's a matter of getting into it, of course. Add the pandemic, 11+ years and its concomitant deterioration, and I'm not as sanguine about my next encounter.

So, let's thank who- or whatever needs thanking for your timely luck!

[Solly Mack]

239. Thank you, BobTheSubgenius

I am thankful and you are right - right now, it's not a sure thing for anyone and I learned it the very personal and very scary way.

I hope you never have to go through hearing there's no room for you. I don't want anyone to have to hear those words.

I had some great people working hard and pulling for me.

[mnhtnbb]

210. OMG, Solly!

I am so glad the system worked for you, despite all the Covid overload and weather!

Please cut yourself some slack on the "stupid". None of us is perfect. And you've had some tough challenges in the last few years. Take care and treat yourself with kindness.

[Solly Mack]

241. Hey, mnhtnbb. Thanks!

I'm grateful it worked out.

It was surreal to be told they can't find a hospital with room. Completely mind blowing on top of everything else.

[Lucinda]

222. ❤️ ✿❧🌿❧✿ ❤️

[Solly Mack]

242. Thank you, Lucinda

[Progressive Jones]

229. Get Well !!! You matter !!! nt

[Solly Mack]

243. Thanks, Progressive Jones

I am matter for sure.

[applegrove]

248. I've discouvered a rocking good salad. Pears x2, celery x1, avocado x1,

all cubed. Then add pumpkin seeds. These things are all green. Then i add some cubed old cheddar (amt. according to diet). That is it. I toss it in blue cheese dressing (the kind you find in the refrigerator of the grocery store - I use Renee's. Use whatever dressing you want but blue cheese really goes with pears, I think you can get it in low calories). Then you toss all these green things in two tablespoons of the blue cheese dressing. There should be a bit too much dressing. Then lay out some mixed lettuce (twice as much as you want to eat) on a huge plate. Top with your blue cheese greens. Mix a bit. Serves one. You'll be full. Make sure all your cubed green things and cheese are big enough you can stick a fork it them.

Take care of you. I invented it. I'm calling it Solly Salad in honour of you. Sending you good vibes.

[Solly Mack]

251. Thank you, applegrove!

Sounds tasty!

[LetMyPeopleVote]

249. I am glad that they found a hospital for you in time

[Solly Mack]

252. Thank you, LetMyPeopleVote

I am too.

[trusty elf]

250. Hi Solly Mack

I'm very glad to hear you're OK! Wishing you a speedy recovery!

[Solly Mack]

253. Hey! How have you been?

Thank you, trusty elf! Good to see you.

[Demovictory9]

254. wow... from heart attack to home in three days. glad it went so well.

[Solly Mack]

274. Modern medicine is a beautiful thing. Thank you, Demovictory9

[PunkinPi]

256. OMG...I'm so glad you are okay.

Sending healing thoughts for a quick recovery and holding you in my heart.

[Solly Mack]

273. Thank you, PunkinPi

[tavernier]

257. At some point while reading this I realized I was holding my breath

and hoping for a happy ending. Silly me…you wouldn’t be writing if it ended badly. Whew!! We can all breathe again. So eat your celery and and carrots and get real well soon!

[Solly Mack]

272. Thanks, tavernier

Heh!

I love both celery and carrots and that's a big plus.

[OldBaldy1701E]

259. As someone

Who went in for a routine follow up to a routine stress test on a Monday morning and was in surgery for a quadruple bypass on Wednesday morning... I can relate. I am very glad you got there in time and things did work out. Make sure to mention those hospitals that were full of Covid patients whenever any rethug loon wants to tell you that it is not real or is 'overblown'. Now you will have to remember all the adjustments we have to make to our diets, our exercises, and our lives in order to be able to hang in there.

[Solly Mack]

271. Thank you, OldBaldy1701E.

Just cause.

[H2O Man]

260. I'm glad you are okay.

Recommended.

What a scary experience with more than one factor making it so. In my best parental voice, based upon the show "Father Knows Best," take care of yourself. From the beautiful responses on this OP/thread, you can see how many of us love and care about you. Okay? Okay.

Several years ago -- I don't remember how many, as years blend together at my age -- I had what doctors later called a minor heart attack. It did not, however, seem minor to me. I was living alone in my house, and was not making swell choices. It was a type of pain that resulted in my getting to my couch, but unable to navigate my way to the phone to call for assistance.

The following evening, my oldest son stopped in. He thought I was asleep,, and I was too weak to get his attention. So he left. The next afternoon, my younger son stopped in. It was light, so he could see me. The first thing he said was, "Um, Dad, you look dead." This led to medical attention, etc.

My four children held a meeting they did not invite me to, though it was held in my house. "What to do about Dad?" was the topic. The older boy accepted responsibility to move back in with me, though he continued to stay at his girl friend's much of the time. The other son began visiting most days. My daughters live some distance away, but contact me most days.

I've done my best to live a healthier life-style.

[Solly Mack]

270. That's a scary story too, H2O Man.

You've got some good kids there.

I'd dearly love to give you a hug now. A real one.

[bobnicewander]

262. Hi Solly Mack

I like your screen name. I just read your post. I am so glad you were able to get the care you needed to save your life. I send my thoughts of blessings to you.

Bob

[Solly Mack]

269. Thank you kindly, bobnicewander.

[BeckyDem]

263. I was afraid for you, so glad to know you will be ok!

[Solly Mack]

268. Thank you, BeckyDem

[nolabear]

264. I'm the spouse of a 25 year survivor.

Mr Bear had one at 40, eventually worked his way up to nine stents then a bypass. He’s got a genetic cholesterol issue that over time they’ve found the drugs to effectively counteract and he takes great care of himself, mostly.

So you can do this! I know about neglecting things getting you in trouble during Covid. And I’m so happy you got care in spite of the shit show down there! Hang in and do all the things. You got this! ❤️

[Solly Mack]

267. Thanks, nolabear.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

265. Oh that must been so scary. Glad you're doing better

You're very brave. It seems here in Texas there are some hospitals that are deemed non-covid.

[Solly Mack]

266. Thanks, LPMAD. That's probably a good idea for all over.

As much as it can be done.

[Laura PourMeADrink]

283. Kinda worked reverse here... My FIL couldn't find a covid bed. nt

[Solly Mack]

284. Maybe that's why more areas aren't doing it? Too many Covid patients

to designate hospitals as Covid and Non-Covid.

Some towns only have one hospital and some people are miles and miles away from a hospital.

A lot of rural hospitals have closed over the years.

Some who live near a state border have to travel to the other state for medical care because that's the closest hospital to them.

It's a perilous time right now and it wasn't great for a lot of people to begin with prior to the pandemic - lack of access, lack of insurance, etc..

I have some of the best insurance in the country and even that wasn't enough for me to not be told "No".

It's scary out there.

[grantcart]

275. Thanks for keeping us informed and reminding us to stay on our meds.

Keep fighting and getting better.

[Solly Mack]

279. Thank you, grantcart

[Patton French]

276. Very frightening

I hope you continue to have a strong recovery.

[Solly Mack]

280. Thank you, Patton French

[dixiegrrrrl]

277. Just saw this....SO glad to see you are recovering nicely.

You have a powerful guardian angel, thank god.

[Solly Mack]

281. Thanks, dixiegrrrrl

[Ilsa]

278. I'm so relieved you're better.

It sounds like you got excellent cardiac care. I hope it's nothing but smooth sailing going forward.

[Solly Mack]

282. Thanks, Ilsa

I was very fortunate.

[bluestarone]

285. WOW! let me jump in here to say I'm so happy your still here!!

What a story! The unvaccinated are gonna kill lots of other people! Take it easy for awhile now!!

[Solly Mack]

286. Thank you, bluestarone

I'm happy about it too.

And, yes, they are, I agree.

[greatauntoftriplets]

287. OMG, Solly, I'm so sorry to hear this.

Also that I hadn't seen this thread until now.

Thank the gods that you reacted fast and got to the ER so quickly, and then finally to a good cardio unit. Take care of yourself and get well soon.

[Solly Mack]

288. Thanks, greatauntoftriplets

[marmar]

289. :hugs:

[Solly Mack]

290. Thank you, marmar