The Heart Attack, A Year Later

It’s been a full year since our world changed.

A year since I missed a call from Mitch while working in the office, and when I called back fifteen minutes later, a calm, kind employee at Maple Grove Hospital answered instead of him.

A year since I heard the words I’ll never forget: “Your husband is having a heart attack.”

A year since the sweet nurse at Maple Grove Hospital gave the phone to Mitch so I could hear him say, “I’m going to be okay. I’m where I need to be—they’re taking care of me.”

A year since I scrambled to make arrangements for the kids, trying to keep things normal while rushing to the hospital to meet Mitch’s parents.

A year since we learned Mitch had suffered a pretty severe heart attack at just 40 years old - 90% blockage, two stents (which I’m still convinced he somehow managed to make sure were Abbott products, even mid-procedure).

A year since I had to sit our kids down and explain that their dad had a heart attack, but thankfully, miraculously, he was okay.

A year since I’ve replayed that day a hundred different ways in my head, thinking of all the little things that could have gone differently.

A year since we hunkered down in the hospital for a few days, getting a crash course in cardiac health, medications, rehab, and limitations.

A year since we realized just how critical it is to know your family health history.

A year since we learned that sometimes genetics are the perfect storm, and even diet and exercise can’t change the outcome.

A year since we confirmed how important it is to truly listen to your body.

A year since I sat by Mitch’s hospital bed and added a pill organizer to my Amazon cart.

A year since we shared Mitch’s story with family and friends, hoping it might serve as a reminder to make the appointment, get the tests, ask the questions, and learn your family’s health history.

A year since our family was surrounded by an overwhelming amount of love and support, something we’ll never be able to fully express our gratitude for.

Oof. What a year it’s been.

365 days later, Mitch is still Mitch-ing, in the best way possible.

He’s gone to the doctor more in the last 12 months than maybe in his entire life. His pill count is still higher than he’d like, but he’s here. He’s still crushing it at work, being the coolest dad around, coaching hockey, dancing at Nationals with Harper, and making everyone laugh.

Spring and summer were filled with rounds of golf (both local and a few trips), picking up running (which, it turns out, he’s actually annoyingly good at), discovering new board games, and planning new family adventures.

He’s listening to his body, doing the things, and living life - fully, intentionally, and gratefully. And so are we.

Mitchell, we love you beyond words and are forever grateful that you're here. 

Each year, this day will serve as the reminder and perspective we need. For ourselves, and for the family and friends we love so deeply.

Listen to your body. Trust your gut. Go to the doctor. Ask the questions.
And most importantly - live your life, every single day.

We love you all!
The Helleeens