HeartStarters

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States.

Knowing the signs of a stroke with the BE FAST method could save a life.

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Mary went to her family doctor to find out the cause of unusual discoloration on her lower legs. Soon after, she was diagnosed with peripheral artery disease, or PAD, a narrowing of the inside of the arteries that carry blood away from the heart to other parts of the body. “Even with my background as a nurse, I knew little about PAD. It just isn’t talked about much.”

Her search for “what’s next” led her to an online PAD support group, where she learned that walking and a healthy diet can help with PAD symptoms. “I set a daily goal of 8,000 steps, which I reached most of the time through either the treadmill, park strolls or mall walking.”

She also joined a gym and started reading nutrition labels and making healthier choices at the grocery store. “These changes were initially hard to incorporate but with consistency I got used to them. I finally had hope for a better life.”

Four years after her diagnosis Mary is feeling great. She even signed up to walk a 5K. “Everyone’s journey with PAD will look different, but my best advice is that with commitment, perseverance and consistency you can live your best life.”