#63 Listen up, Heart Buddies. Today's conversation with Hyvelle is important. She walks us through the importance of gaining information and taking accountability for one's health by sharing her truly shocking personal experience that highlights the consequences of ignoring early warning signs. A stroke ultimately saved her life by revealing a critical heart condition. Hyvelle gets real about the mental and emotional impact of facing life-altering surgeries and the transformative power of finding gratitude in the face of adversity. She also sheds light on the healthcare disparities faced by communities of color and the financial burdens that hinder access to essential resources. Hear about her upcoming health extravaganza event with Heart Sistas, Inc, aimed at raising awareness about heart disease and stroke prevention through accessible health screenings.

I was forever changed from my conversation with Hyvelle. There is so much more we need to be doing in the USA about treating all hearts the same no matter the color of our skin. Please connect with Hyvelle and show her some love.

More about Hyvelle Ferguson-Davis

Hyvelle Ferguson Davis She is a global Health Advocate and an Ambassador for the American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association, CEO of Heart Sistas Inc., a newly published author, and a Tedx Speaker.

She is also a stroke, heart attack, and quadruple bypass survivor, living a purposeful life despite her diagnoses after navigating the complications of her illnesses and the treacherous complexity of our healthcare system. She became extremely concerned about disparities in treatments and dissemination of information that she wasn't aware of before she became ill; to better her survival outcome, Hyvelle joined many health groups and organizations to learn how to gain the upper hand.

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**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**

How to connect with Boots

Email: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.com

Instagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knighton

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knighton

Boots Knighton

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Open Heart Surgery with Boots

#62 Heart surgery buddies! I needed this episode when I was facing heart surgery and I know you do too. Dr. Kim Peirano and I discuss the power of storytelling and mindset in managing pain and medical experiences. She emphasizes the importance of choosing empowering narratives, embracing vulnerability, and finding balance between taking control and accepting reality. Dr. Peirano also warns about false promises in the wellness industry and advises listeners to research practitioners thoroughly. She introduces the concepts of "optimistic realism" and "optimistic nihilism" as ways to transform one's perception of challenging situations. The conversation also touches on preparing for heart surgery, managing fear and anxiety, and the role of hypnotherapy in influencing physiological states. Throughout the episode, the host and guest highlight the significance of self-awareness, boundaries, and informed decision-making in healthcare and personal growth. I know you will find this episode helpful. Be sure to share with a buddy as this conversation applies to any challenge in life.

More about Dr. Kim Peirano, DACM, LAc, CHT

Kim Peirano, DACM, LAc, CHT, brings a wealth of expertise as a seasoned and highly skilled Jungian-based life coach and hypnotherapist. Specializing in areas such as chronic pain and illness, navigating major life transitions, cult and coercive recovery, and providing general support for personal and spiritual growth, Kim caters to high-functioning individuals seeking profound transformation.

Her extensive qualifications include a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, a dual board licensed Acupuncturist, and certifications as a Jungian Life Coach and Hypnotherapist. With over 15 years of dedicated experience, Kim establishes a neutral yet inviting space, offering invaluable guidance to clients on their healing journeys. Her approach is characterized by support, compassion, and the ability to gently usher individuals beyond their comfort zones, empowering them to step forward into a life of vibrant fulfillment.

Tiktok.com/@couragetotransform instagram.com/couragetotransform

www.couragetotransform.com

***Support the show!*** Your financial support means so much to me and fellow heart patients. Thank you for considering donating today.

**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**

How to connect with Boots

Email: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.com

Instagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knighton

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knighton

Boots Knighton

If you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well. You can share directly from this platform or send them to:

Open Heart Surgery with Boots

#61 Despite leading a healthy lifestyle, John Spilman required a triple bypass due to severe blockages. He describes warning signs like fatigue and shortness of breath that led to lifesaving surgery. John's recovery included challenges like Afib, but through cardiac rehab and determination, he completed a half Ironman just a year later. His experience emphasizes being your own health advocate and finding support in the heart patient community. John's inspiring journey offers hope to others facing major health obstacles.

More about John Spilman: I've been in endurance sports for over 25 years, participating in over 35 marathons, 15 half Ironman triathlons, and 6 full Ironmans. My routine involved early workouts, a full day of work in corporate strategy, and family time.

In July 2023, I learned I had severe blockages requiring a triple bypass. Despite being a vegan and monitoring my health, my heart struggled with >90% blocked arteries. Signs of fatigue and shortness of breath led to necessary tests and surgery.

The surgery was successful, and I quickly started recovery. I faced challenges like AFIB but continued to push forward. Cardiac rehab and personal workouts helped me regain strength. By July, nearly a year after surgery, I completed a 70.3 half Ironman.

My experience taught me the importance of being your own advocate and focusing on recovery. Listen to your body and keep moving forward every day.

You can find John on Instagram @spilman65 or LinkedIn

***Support the show!*** Your financial support means so much to me and fellow heart patients. Thank you for considering donating today.

**I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. Be sure to check in with your care team about all the next right steps for you and your heart.**

How to connect with Boots

Email: Boots@theheartchamberpodcast.com

Instagram: @openheartsurgerywithboots or @boots.knighton

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/boots-knighton

Boots Knighton

If you enjoyed this episode, take a minute and share it with someone you know who will find value in it as well. You can share directly from this platform or send them to:

Open Heart Surgery with Boots