THE CLOT BUSTER helping to STOP THE CLOT

January Athlete of the Month

2012-01-28T11:55:00.000-08:00

Once more that magic of the web put me in contact with an individual who is without a question a perfect candidate to be Janaury's Athlete of the Month.

Please allow me to introduce to DAVID PIETRANGELO who is clot survivor and a person with story that is worth reading because blood clotting episodes can happen to anyone at any time.

Read on David's story as he told it to me and get inspired because if there is a will there is a way to return to your normal life...

"I have always been extremely active and competitive. I was born into playing soccer, starting around the age of 4. That was my sports life until high school then came hockey. In college I discovered the gym and have been a gym rat ever since. A serious gym rat though not a weekend warrior or just going through a fad. Everyone knew me as the workout freak and the healthy eater etc. I have been that way since I was 18, health and physical fitness have always been a huge part of my life.

In August 2010 I went to Japan to meet some of my then girlfriend’s relatives and just to experience a great country and culture. While I was there I kept up my workouts with running etc. I noticed that my calves were really hurting me, I did not think much of it and just went about my time there site seeing and enjoying everything. I noticed that my calves would really hurt when I woke and first got out of bed but they would feel better once I started walking and even jogging. Being active all my life I just figured these were normal pains and muscle aches that would simply go away.

When I got back from Japan the calf pain persisted but I continued to go to the gym and play soccer. I noticed that my next few soccer games that I was out of breathe a lot quicker which was very unusual for me but just thought it was due to being on vacation for a couple of weeks. I then started to get short of breathe doing normal things like walking from the train to work. I also noticed a sharp pain in the middle of my back. I had similar pains in the past due to the gym and working out so still I did not seek think anything was wrong and did not seek any medical attention.

One day I just felt terrible, completely out of it so I went to the nurse at work. She got me a quick appointment at a Cardio Vascular center by my job. I went and they did several tests; breathing, heart and even a doplar scan of my legs. All the tests came back negative and the said that I had some type of adult asthma and gave a prescription for an inhaler. I thought this was pretty strange to get asthma at 30 years old but I took their advice and went home. I dropped my prescriptions off and when to my girlfriend’s house to wait for them. At this point I am having real trouble breathing and the pain in my back was very sharp and consistent. When I got back to the house I asked my girlfriend to pick up the prescription because I could barely move. While she was out the pain just got to be too much and I walked to the emergency room which was luckily right across the street. It took me about 10 minutes to go half a block to the hospital. I had to wait the usual 30 or 40 minutes to be admitted, then I told the doctor how the whole day had went. They did all the normal tests, blood pressure, heart rate, etc. The basically said there is nothing they could find and that I should go home. I flat out told the doctors I CANT BREATHE I cannot go home! The doctors said since I was having trouble breathing there was one more test they could do, a CT Scan. I needed a painkilling injection just to lay down for the test.
There it was... a bi-lateral Pulmonary Embolism. I was baffled I had heard of them but did not really know what they were. They said that it was very rare for someone my age (30) to get a PE but they have seen it before. I was admitted that night and stayed in the hospital about a week. The next day they did another doplar and found a DVT behind my left knee. I was scared, my family and loved ones were scared. In the hospital I heard every cause from cancer to the long flight to Japan.
When I got out of the hospital and started to see a specialist I got the low down on what had happened to me and what the treatment was. I ended up on Arixtra injectable blood thinner. I was supposed to be on this for 6 months initially and then everything would be back to normal. Long story short I saw about 4 different doctors who gave me 4 different opinions. I had everything from I would be on blood thinners for the rest of my life to I could stop immediately. I ended up staying with a doctor I saw about 10 months into treatment who said I should just finish out a year of treatment but with the last 2 months at a reduced dose. All the genetic test were negative, no family history no risk factors...so they say the reason was the 15 hour flight to Japan.

I have been off blood thinners for about 3 months now. While I was taking the injections all the contact sports I loved (soccer, hockey, flag football etc) were out of the question. This got me more into running and swimming. This eventually led to swimming, running, and biking... so TRIATHLON! I did my first few races while on blood thinners and my last couple while off them. I also became very interested in obstacle races like Spartan race. After being sick I really re-dedicated myself to fitness and my health. I really just want to take advantage of everything I can. When I was sick I thought I might never do the things I loved again. While I was in treatment I was always thinking that something bad was going to happen like internal bleeding. In the end I just had to decide that my risk factors were very low and that physical activity was huge part of my life.

I want people to know that if you experience DVT or PE that you can get back to the things you love. Get several opinions from doctors and don’t take only one persons opinion. You need to do your research and you need to make educated decisions about your future. Do not get down on yourself and do not give up."

What do you think?

How lucky am I and all of us to have David sharing his story with us?

Without a question we need to be proactive and defend our position with doctors just like David did. If he did not persist they would still be wondering about his "adult asthma". Be aware and be proactive those are the lessons I am taking away from David story.

I hope to get the chance to race with him in a triathlon some day. I better start training because otherwise he will be waiting for me at the finish line for far too long.

David - Thank you for sharing your experience!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

If you had the chance...

2012-01-25T19:03:00.000-08:00

While swimming this afternoon (much longer set than ever thanks to the "Hour of Power" I just completed) I got thinking about the following:

If I was good enough to be able to approach sponsors through my agent, what sponsors would I have? Since this is as possible as me growing a pony tail let's dream on...

*** NUTELLA >>> Would be title sponsor. I can't get enough of that goodness.

*** CHIPOTLE >>> Speaking of goodness... it simply does not get much better than that.

*** KESTREL OR DOLAN for bikes.

*** MIZUNO OR KARHU for shoes. Over the last 6 years the only pair of shoes that I have used. Mizuno's Wave Rider just provides that security cushion and stability that I cherish while running.

*** SPIUK >>> Fine clothing that I wish I could have more to use and put to the test.

For a second there I thought I could come up with a lot more choices but truly I could not think of any more that I would LOVE to represent.

Maybe if I ever get around to grow that pony tail I mentioned before perhaps a sponsorship opportunity can come my way...

In the mean time I better concentrate in getting faster at all three of my sports and prepare for the 2012 season that should be a fun with a new CLOT BUSTER jersey in the works...

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

My new ride...

2012-01-20T18:46:00.000-08:00

Check out my new set of shoes for 2012...

What do you think?

How do they look? (Mrs. Clot Buster does not like them AT ALL...)

Can you guess the brand?

So far, I've only ran a handful of times on these and they feel very comfortable. We will see how fast I get to with them during my training and racing this year.

Speaking of racing, I will be out there again this year doing some local triathlons so be in the lookout for the polka-dots...

In addition to a handfull of triathlons I am toying with the idea of celebrating my entrance into a new age group category with an epic event. Nothing bigger than doing a MARATHON... However, I am only doing it if I can manage to bring my weight down to under 172 by Junior's birthday June 3rd. If I am able to do that I am either racing the Dayton, OH Air Force Marathon (September 15th) or perhaps the Columbus Marathon (October 12th). We will see how it goes... Stay tuned!

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

BIKE SALE!!!

2012-01-14T06:19:00.000-08:00

Please check out the following link for a sale on bike frame that it is too good to be true...

http://dolanbikes.com/

I personally have a DOLAN HERCULES and I am in love with that machine.

Go ahead and take advantage of this great opportunity!

I highly recommend both the bikes and the folks from DPMSports to take care of you!

Thanks for reading,

THE CLOT BUSTER

What a start of 2012...

2012-01-08T10:19:00.000-08:00

Words cannot explain how lucky were.

Although he came early and he is not home with us yet.

Getting the chance to see this little one every day makes me the happiest man on the planet.

It is an amazing feeling to hold him in my arms and know about his progress every day.

Check out this angel, his big brother and proud parents!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

December Athlete of the Month

2011-12-26T18:58:00.000-08:00

What better way to close the year and celebrate the Holidays than reading the following inspiring story of survival from a clotting incident.

Let me introduce you to Mr. CEDRIC BILL and his story as told by him...
"As U.S. Army Master Fitness Trainer, I was used to physically challenging my body. So it was not unusual, when in August of 2002 I shrugged off a sharp pain in the calf of my leg – a pain that had jolted me from a restful morning sleep. “What is it,” I thought, and quickly determined that I had a muscle sprain. Shortly thereafter, I went about my business without any concern.

But as the days passed, the pain worsened despite my efforts – such as massaging. A noticeable shortness of breath soon started a few days after the onset of the leg pain. Yet, I continued my work routine. But on the fifth day since my initial calf pain, a most alarming thing occurred – my leg started to swell!

Finally, I went to an emergency room where doctors found that I was suffering from a DVT (deep vein thrombosis) and a bilateral PE (pulmonary embolism). I was successfully treated for the clotting issues and I began to restart what I thought would be a normal life.

Unfortunately, a normal life was not something that was going to follow because since that day in August of 2002 I have had repeated episodes of DVT’s and PE’s. My most frightening occurrence happened in February of 2005 while I was stationed in Hawaii. That incident produced a very life-threatening clotting situation and I was laid up in a hospital bed for three weeks.

What surprised me then, after leaving the hospital, was how long it took me to learn how to walk properly again. If you don’t know, blood clots are very painful and this one had affected my entire leg, even extending into my vena cava valve that leads towards the heart. It seemed like my body was out of control.

Doctors had inserted a filter in my vein to catch clots and prevent them from traveling to my lungs. Despite their efforts, I still managed to get clots in both lungs. Medication eased what was a critical life-threatening situation. Meanwhile, my military career was in shambles. In March, I was medically retired from the Army, receiving a 70 percent disability rating. I never saw my career ending this way – especially since I had trained entire units of soldiers (and individuals) with physical fitness programs to get and keep them in shape. I had never been seriously ill and I was way too young to have medical problems. Besides, I WAS a Master Fitness Trainer!

Physically, my body was suffering as each episode created more damage to veins in the legs – causing a condition known at post phlebitic syndrome. In addition to the filter in my chest, I now wear a compression stocking on my affected leg every day and a permanent handicap sticker now adorns my car.

The thing I learned as a personal trainer was to always train around injuries – most importantly was to keep moving as much as possible to so that good health is maintained. I do that today – walking everyday for 30 minutes and weight training at least three times a week.

What I didn’t realize before all this happened was that clotting disorders are not age discriminating and they don’t just affect those in poor physical condition. Having had three DVT’s and multiple PE’s, my life has changed completely. At age 41, I’m not done living an active life while taking my daily Coumadin and watching my diet.

I wonder how things would have been if I had only known the warning signs of this silent killer. I was very lucky. Many others are not. Remember, the best cure for this condition is prevention and knowledge of the warning signs. Seek medical attention immediately. For me, I’d much rather be running again, playing softball, and playing with my children. But I am lucky and alive."

Although Mr. Cedric's life changed due to his clotting episodes he definitely has not slowed down. After retiring from the military after 22 years of service as an Army Officer he found a new calling in which he inspires others through his motivational speeches. He is know as "Cedric "The Edutainer"" and from what I can read he does an outstanding job.

For me knowing Mr. Cedric's story only gives me more drive to do what I can to keep spreading the word and make as many people as possible aware of the warning signs of blood clots as early treatment can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Wishing All a WONDERFUL HOLIDAY SEASON!!!

2011-12-23T19:23:00.000-08:00

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Training... sort of... I am good at pretending.

2011-12-14T18:29:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned before in the "November Athlete of the Month" post on December 31st I hope to participate "virtually" on the

NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY SWIMMING AND DIVING "HOUR OF POWER" in Honor of Anna Frutiger.

Please CLICK HERE for more detailed information about the event.

I am not sure how I will measure up to what the "young" guns will do during this hour but I will give it my best shot. My training has been very limited to about 1200 yards sets couple of times per week. I don't have any idea how I will be able to swim for an hour but we will find out on December 31st. I guess that you will never know if you don't try.

John Frutiger - If you ever get the chance to read this >>>

THANK YOU for organizing this event.

THANK YOU for spreading the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

THANK YOU for honoring the memory of your sister.

Your leadership provides great inspiration to keep spreading the word about blood clots and blood clotting diorders.

See you at the pool!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

November Athlete of the Month

2011-11-29T19:01:00.000-08:00

This month's athlete of the month will be somewhat different.

I want to use this post to honor the memory of ANNA FRUTIGER who this world unfortunately lost last year due to a blood clotting incident. It is very sad to learn about a story like this but sadly it is the reality of the danger of blood clots.

One of the reasons why I selected Anna's story is because of the effort her brother as a swimmer at Northwestern University is putting forward to raise funds to STOP THE CLOT and to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

The swimming and diving team isndoing a very special event they call the "Hour of Power". What is the “Hour of Power?” Simply put, it’s an hour-long continuous relay in which our teams will swim as many lengths in one hour as possible. During the relay the memory of Anna will be remembered. If you would like to donate to this event please CLICK HERE.

Just know that on this blog post I am making a commitment to participate in the "Hour of Power" remotely from Columbus, OH. I may not be able to swim all of the hour in one effort but I will give it my best try. Follow along to see how far I can make it on December 31st!

I hope that you find it within you to donate for this very worth while cause. If you are not convinced please take some time to read Anna's story below...

"Anna Frutiger embodied brains, beauty, compassion, athleticism, and as such, seemed the picture of health while she was living her dream of becoming a dentist. No one expected that a blood clot would end her dream, and it seemed beyond belief that Anna died on May 20th, 2010 from a pulmonary embolism (PE) due to an undiagnosed deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a month after her 23rd birthday.

Anna felt pain behind her knee and in her calf four months before she died, and she attributed her pain to the stress and strain of training for a half marathon or a muscle pull. Her friends at dental school noted that she limped, and Anna was aware of becoming short of breath whenever she ran.

When her leg pain persisted, Anna saw an orthopedic surgeon who found no injury to suggest a muscle pull. After a thorough physical and review of her medical history, her doctor suspected a blood clot in her lower leg. Anna’s only known risk factor was that she was taking a third generation birth control pill. Results of an Ultrasound/Doppler of her leg were negative for DVT. At a follow-up to that exam 3 weeks later, her leg was normal shape and size, and she no longer felt any leg pain. As a result, her doctor discharged her.

After her first year finals at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Anna traveled quite a bit, and flew for six hours over two consecutive weekends, then went to see friends in New York City the next two weekends which involved an eight hour bus trip with one ten minute stop. Anna complained of not being able to breathe easily when she carried groceries up to her apartment right after the bus trip. She told her parents that her symptoms were probably stress–related, since vacation was over, and the demands of school were resuming.

The next morning, Anna called her best friend to drive her to school because she felt extremely weak and didn’t think she could walk on her own. She wanted to push herself to class, because she had two quizzes that day. Anna collapsed on the lawn outside her apartment after walking downstairs, and blacked out for several seconds. Her friend called 911 and an ambulance arrived within minutes. Anna was conscious at that point, and asked her friends to call her parents in Michigan.

Anna made it to the Emergency Room, but had a cardiopulmonary arrest a few minutes after she arrived. She was immediately taken to surgery to try to dislodge the huge blood clot that caused her massive PE. Over the next two days, a team of doctors and nurses worked round the clock to keep Anna alive in hopes that a miracle would happen, something her family and friends wished for with all their hearts. Her family was euphoric two days later, because she moved her arms during the night, and their hope was that she would awake from her coma. Their hopes were dashed almost immediately when the neurological tests showed that she no longer had brain activity. Anna’s family had to make the agonizing decision to remove life support.

Despite their grief, they chose to donate Anna’s organs. Anna gave life to another, so continues to be life-giving even after her death.

Her doctors immediately tested her family and found no genetic blood clotting disorders. Her autopsy determined that Anna was not predisposed to blood clots. It seems that the birth control pill and her concentrated travel in one month were her major clotting risks.

Although Anna tuned in to her health status, 23 year olds do not suspect that anything fatal is brewing, and she probably did not link her birth control to her leg pain, or the possibility of a DVT. Although her doctor suspected a blood clot, he saw her as a low risk. Moreover, the Ultrasound/Doppler testing is effective for DVT diagnosis only 3 out of 10 times. Her family believes strongly that had Anna and they had the awareness and knowledge of the risks factors and signs of DVT in the months before Anna died that she might be alive today.

Anna loved her friends and family with every ounce of her being and always gave 110% to others, no matter what was at stake. Two of her closest friends, Sally Vitez and Michael Ratajczyk, fundraised for the NBCA/ Stop The Clot® by running a marathon and half marathon respectively in Anna’s memory."

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Athlete of the Month UPDATE

2011-11-06T11:09:00.000-08:00

Today was the running of the ING NEW YORK CITY MARATHON

and it our JANUARY 2010 CLOT BUSTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH - KELLY HOGAN was participating.

and guess what...?!?!?

SHE DID IT ! 26.2 Miles she completed!

OUTSTANDING WORK KELLY!

You continue to provide others with inspiration to keep going despite your blood clotting incident.

CONGRATULATIONS! You should be OVER THE MOON!

Enjoy the pain and satisfaction of having crossed the line!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

HAPPY HALLOWEEN !!!

2011-10-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

Next year I am going to attempt a polka-dot themed carving...

Let's see how it turns out!

Here is wishing all of you out there who are linked to the CLOT BUSTER Network in one way or another a Happy Halloween!

WHAT IS THE BEST CANDY OUT THERE TO GIVE AND/OR RECEIVE?

Considering the Clot Buster's MASSIVE sweet tooth anything will do. However, a Kit Kat bar can provide lots of enjoyment! But really for me anything with Dark Chocolate will stop me on my tracks...

Thanks for reading!

The Clot Buster

October Athlete of the Month

2011-10-24T19:30:00.000-07:00

If I am not careful this month of October is going to fly by without giving me the chance to show case a CLOT BUSTER Athlete...

But since I've been maintaining this streak of posts for the better part of 3 + years now I am not about to just skip a month simply because I've been busy... So with that being said I think that I just found a little time to get this going.

Based on the last post about the NBCA newsletter that was featuring some of the AMAZNIG NBCA VOLUNTEERS I thought that I could go a step further and highlight the last volunteer shown as yet another example of the tenacity and inspiration that any clot incident survivor exhibits as they make their remarkable come back into sport.

For the October's Issue of Athelete of the Month I wanted to feature JANA WASSERMAN who coming up January of 2012 will be partcipating in the ING Miami Half-Marathon in Miami, Florida.

Although I've never met Jana the little that I know about her makes a powerful statement of that tenacity and dedication I wrote about earlier. Please read on to learn a little bit more about JANA ...
"Jana, who noticed a blind spot in her right eye, went on a mission to find out what happened. A blood clot was diagnosed; she met her hematologist and after extensive blood work, had an answer: not one, but two genetic clotting disorders. Now, she confidently manages her conditions and is sure she will "dodge another clot". Jana tells us, "I'm excited to train in honor of this wonderful cause. I've always enjoyed running and know that staying active and healthy is one way to decrease the chance of forming another clot. I'll run the ING Miami Half Marathon and be proud to wear the NBCA's red dotted shirt to remind others to Stop The Clot!""

We are PROUD OF YOU JANA for your willingness to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders. You will represent the CLOT BUSTER polka-dots during your event with great style.

I hope that someday I can meet you in person and get the chance to run along side you!

Good Luck in your final months of training.

Thank you for the inspiration and we look forward to hear how this race went and what will be your next challenge!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

2011-10-16T11:12:00.000-07:00

Letter from the NATIONAL BLOOD CLOT ALLIANCE (NBCA) that I wanted to share with all of you!

Please read on to learn about some AMAZING VOLUNTEERS!

"We hope you had a great summer and are ready for fall. Join us in congratulating this season's Most Valuable Volunteers...making a difference in their home field by raising funds and awareness to Stop The Clot. NBCA is proud to honor these outstanding volunteers for bringing help and hope to their clotting community and beyond!

Who: Jim Fenton
What: Triad Half Marathon & Cannon Ball Run
When: August and October 2011
Where: Greensboro, NC
Jim is pulling out all the stops to Stop The Clot - he competed in the Triad Half Marathon in August and raced this past weekend in the Cannon Ball Run (which he also finished last year!) In both events he reached a personal best and completed the courses in less than 2 hours while raising about $1000 for NBCA! Jim tells us: "People commented and asked me about my polka dotted race shirt through out the day so I was able to spread the word about the fight against blood clots as well".

Who: Dan, Steve and Andy Flanagan
What: Jim Flanagan Memorial Golf Tournament
When: August 13, 2011
Where: Indianapolis, IN
Dan, Steve and Andy hosted the Jim Flanagan Memorial Golf Tournament to honor the memory of their father. Jim died this past January of a fatal pulmonary embolism (PE). Touched by so many people who paid tribute to their dad upon his death, his sons organized this event as a means of spreading awareness about blood clots and clotting disorders while raising funds for NBCA. Thanks to the Flanagan Family thirty foursomes enjoyed a day of golf at the Eagle Creek Golf Course and raised over $5200 to Stop The Clot!

Who: Cheryl Fishman
What: 2nd Annual Kicks for Clots
When: September 10, 2011
Where: Ocean City, NJ
Cheryl, a multiple blood clot survivor at 26, successfully organized a second kickball tourney for NBCA last month and we can't wait for next year! Cheryl and her brother, Nate, make sure everyone has fun in the sun while bringing awareness and education about the risks, signs and symptoms of clotting disorders to her community for a cause close to her heart. Cara Lynch won the top fundraising prize of tickets to a Yankee's game and team Brother Shamus took home the priceless trophy! Over 40 players from all over the country raised over $6400 while kicking that big red ball!

Who: Sally Vitez
What: Funky Blues Bar Fundraiser
When: November 12, 2011
Where: Washington, DC
Sally's involvement with the NBCA began in memory of Anna Frutiger, her dear friend, who died at only 23 from a PE due to an undiagnosed deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Sally's efforts at raising funds and awareness to Stop The Clot started when she became a NAthlete for the Marine Corps Marathon and raised nearly $6000. Next month, Sally hosts a super Saturday night event at Madams Organ Blues Bar , 2461 18th Street NW, Washington DC from 7:00 - 9:00. Entry to this bluesy fundraiser is only $10 and all proceeds benefit the NBCA. Join Sally and her friends for great musical performances by Steve Kolowich, Noah Bein and Bernardo Guzman.

Who: Jana Wasserman
When: January 29, 2012
Where: Miami, FL
What: ING Half Marathon
Jana, who noticed a blind spot in her right eye, went on a mission to find out what happened. A blood clot was diagnosed; she met her hematologist and after extensive blood work, had an answer: not one, but two genetic clotting disorders. Now, she confidently manages her conditions and is sure she will "dodge another clot". Jana tells us, "I'm excited to train in honor of this wonderful cause. I've always enjoyed running and know that staying active and healthy is one way to decrease the chance
of forming another clot. I'll run the ING Miami Half Marathon and be proud to wear the NBCA's red dotted shirt to remind others to Stop The Clot!"

With a little coaching, you could be our next MVV!

Are you already a runner or just thinking about walking in that local 5K? NBCA's NAThlete program is designed to turn your activity into an opportunity to raise funds and awareness to Stop The Clot! We'll help you tackle the challenge - contact Kristen at kholgerson@stoptheclot.org

More good news, Dan Flanagan joins past MVV's, Traci Wilkes Smith, Kara King and Sara Wassenaar and new board member Shawna Baffone on NBCA's Special Events Committee. This committee is positioned to mentor volunteers interested in organizing an event to raise funds and awareness in their community. Contact Judi at jelkin@stoptheclot.org if you'd like to start you own Stop The Clot event!

Approximately 350,000-600,000 Americans have blood clots each year. About 100,000 die, meaning up to 1 out of 3 people are killed by venous blood clots. "

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

Septmber Athlete of the Month

2011-09-30T20:48:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the magic of the web and twitter I am incredibly lucky to get to connect with folks from all walks of life...

This month's Athlete of the Month is yet another virtual connnection but one that is worth sharing so anyone out there reading this can get that additional inspiration to get the back doing what they love...

Get inspired with DAVID DUBE's story as he shared it with me...

"I've had an interesting experience. Started in May of '09 when I noticed I could only run 20min on the treadmill before I became winde (I had been doing hour long training runs during lunch). The following day I could only do 10 minutes. I had similar experiences when riding... if I was in a pack on flats, I was fine, but hills would kill me. After about a week I went to the doctors, and due to an initial negative d-dimer, the doctor spent the next month trying allergy meds, checking for exercise induced asthma, and even scheduled an echo... everything was negative. At that point my doctor kind of "gave up" (I should have pushed him). After another month of no answers to my breathing issues, I decided to go to an Urgent Care center - I was convinced it was some bronchial infection. When I got there, I realized I forgot my wallet. As I started going back home, I decided to call my Doctor's office one last time. A fellow co-worker's mother manages the office, and she picked up the phone. I explained the situation, and she said to come in immediately - she would talk to the doctor.

When I got there, my doctor was still perplexed, but agreed to set up an appointment with the head of Duke's Pulmonary medicine the next morning. That evening, while walking the dogs with my wife, I started having issues breathing... sweat pouring down... concerned, my wife remarked I was dragging my leg, and that's when she said I collapsed (I still say I made a conscious decision to sit down). It took about 20 minutes of rest to feel like I could continue... 200 yards and a hill later I had to sit down again. It's about that time when a neighbor came and asked if he could help. I had never seen him walking the trails before - turns out he is a cardiologist (how lucky was that?). He looked me over, helped me home, and made sure I had recovered. I told him of my trip to Duke the next morning, but said to immediately go to the ER if anything went wrong.

Next morning I woke up and I knew something wasn't right. My breathing was labored just laying in bed. My wife took me to Duke and we started out with a spirometry test - passed with flying colors. The next test was the 6 minute walking test which I thought was going to be a joke. Typically, my issues were occurring outside - I thought it was the thick NC humidity that was causing the problems. They insisted we had to perform the test in the office. Well... that's when I knew things were serious. The nurse shut the test down before we had even completed one lap in the office (less than a minute), yelled for the doctor to come immediately, and put me on oxygen. My SpO2 level had dropped to 70%! Long and short... I was fast tracked into ICU.

CT Scan showed significant number of PEs in both lungs, and a subsequent sonar found the DVT in my leg. Unfortunately, all of the genetic tests have come back negative... no long trips in my recent history, no recent injuries, no family history... nothing to point to why I had the DVT and PEs.

Interesting side story... I finally made it back to the office after about 2 weeks. After I had explained what had happened to my co-workers, one of my friends (also an athlete) pulled me aside and asked me to repeat my symptoms. He said he was feeling exactly the same thing over the past couple of weeks. I urged him to go to a doctor... suggested a d-dimmer just in case. What could it hurt? After seeing the doctor that day, he went home and saw he had a message waiting for him. His doctor had called and told him to go to the ER immediately. It turns out he too had a multiple PEs and a DVT in his leg.

In my situation, since there was no known contributing factors, my doctors suggested I try getting off warfarin after 6 months. Three weeks after getting off the drug I started having breathing issues again. A subsequent VQ scan found new blockages in my lungs, and a sonar found a new DVT (before getting off the drug, I had a clean VQ scan, and sonar had shown the DVT had dissolved).

Long story short... it looks like I'll be on anti-coagulants for long term now. Other than no longer playing Ice Hockey, I've continued an active life style. My wife and I completed our first english century last fall, and are planning three this year along with several more metric centuries. Interestingly enough, it was the active lifestyle that saved my life. Originally, I only noticed signs when I was training hard (early warning sensor if you will). The fact that I was in decent shape allowed my heart and lungs to over compensate. Although this has been a long story, there are several other small nuances that make me take pause (not having my wallet at the Urgent Care Center, my co-worker's mom picking up the phone, cardiologist neighbor on the trails, having my story impact the life of another friend)...

Life is good... I'm alive... and I'm making sure to live it well!"

What a pleasure to make such a connections!

David thank you for sharing your story. I am sure that it will get others going and probably I will get to feature them here!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

60 Down!!! All Started and All Finished

2011-09-27T20:32:00.000-07:00

60 Triathlons Completed!

Every single race that I started I FINISHED!

Looking back this is hard to believe.

Some races were awesome and some not so good...

I have suffered in many races but in all of them getting the chance to finish has been an unique experience.

Racing triathlons as the Clot Buster spreading the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders continues to add an incredible flavor to my passion of triathlon that I wish to continue for MANY MORE TRIATHLONS to come!

This 60th triathlon had by far the best finish so far as I had the chance to run with Junior and cross the finish line together!

Look at that smile! What an incredible treat for me...!

Thanks for reading!

The Clot Buster

On September 18th I will be reaching a nice round number...

2011-09-12T18:54:00.000-07:00

Guess what will happen on September 18th?

Do you have any idea?

Here is a hint = It has to do with this blog. Well, to clarify what this blog talks about...

Here is another hint = It is a nice round number...

Here is hint # 3 = It has taken me the better part of 9 years to get to this point...

Here is hint # 4 = I hope that some day I can make it to the Century mark...

Do you have a better idea now?

Well, on September 18th I will be racing my 60th Triathlon!

Can you believe it !?!?!

Looking back through my records I can proudly say that I HAVE FINISHED EVERY SINGLE RACE that I EVER STARTED.

Some races have been harder than others... I have struggled big time, I have walked miles to the finish, I have crashed and got up, I have suffered flats, I have raced in down pours, I have jumped off ferry's, I once drove 14 hours to a race destination, I have raced in a different country, I have cried in frustration but also laughed at my luck...

But above all I HAVE TRULY ENJOYED EVERY RACE THAT I'VE DONE regardless of the outcome. The memories from all the events all come rushing through as I read the name of the event and its date. I can pretty much remember something from each race which surprised me as I went through the list the other day.

I am very lucky to be able to enjoy this hobby with the support of my wife and family. I am VERY THANKFUL for the willingness to come along and cheer for me when possible. I can't put in words how nice it is to hear the familiar voice and to see the familiar faces even if it is for a split moment. I am VERY LUCKY to have this support and I can only hope that I can continue counting on it as I make my way to celebrate 100 triathlons a few years down the road...

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

UPDATE on June 2009's Athlete of the Month

2011-09-09T18:09:00.000-07:00

This Gentleman is a machine!

I featured him back in 2009 and he has not allowed that clotting episode to slow him down one bit.

He truly is an inspiration as once more he made the decision to race a Half-Marathon and fund raise in the process.

This year Mr. JIM FENTON completed the Battle of the Triad Half Marathon and to make it even sweeter he did it by beating his goal of going under 2 hours with plenty of time to spare.

Jim continues to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders and I cannot Thank him enough for his efforts. I understand that during this race a fellow runner got educated about blood clots between miles 10 and 11 which in turn was Jim's fastest mile of the race... go figure!

It is a pleasure to write updates like this. It is a great thrill to me because these stories I am able to share with others who are just starting their return journey and the inspiration they provide is well beyond words.

Jim >>> THANK YOU for the inspiration and dedication. Keep it up! I look forward to hear where else the Clot Buster polka-dots will end up!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

The mind games of triathlon runs...

2011-09-07T18:33:00.000-07:00

I've done triathlons for the better part of 8 years well over the half century mark.

Olympic distance races are by far the most common length of race that I do.

Why is Mile 3 to 4 during the 10K so hard to fight and get through?

Why after so many years and races I battle that mile to the point of tears?

Regardless of my training and the conditions I dread the 7 or 8 minutes it usually takes for me to get through that miles and move on with the rest of the run.

Perhaps if I get faster and can do under 7 minute miles the pain of that mile will be over soon.

Interestingly enough from all of my races the struggle at Mile #3 is what I remember the most.

Why is that?

Without a doubt I have to make it pass by faster so I better drop the hammer regardless of the pain. That voice inside of my head asking me to slow down can be very persuasive and there is been times when I almost broke down and walked...

I suppose that I am able to finish strong when I know that I beat that dreaded mile and all I have left is 2 more... I do get a sense of relief when I see the Mile #4 banner and I know that I am that much closer to the end.

Will I ever feel comfortable during Mile 3?

To be honest after all of this time I probably like for it to stay as is... I just resolved to run it faster and get it over with sooner...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

August Athlete of the Month

2011-08-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

This edition of athlete of the month is special because it features non other than a fellow BALD MAN...

That is right, for the first time in three years doing this series of posts sharing inspirational stories of people with blood clots that a bald man has been featured...

Although it is a bummer that for this Professional Athlete the 2011 season was shut down due to this blood clotting incident there is no question in my mind that he will be back to give it a try again in 2012.

This post is also special to me because it features someone who evidently likes to ride bikes as much as I do since this person does it for a living...

After winning the Tour of California and going into the Tour of France with very high expectations of succes Mr. Chris Horner suffered a very nasty accident on Stage 7 that took him out of the race. As a professional cyclist I don't believe this crash ranks amongst his most serious one however the resulting diagnosis of a blood clot in his lung surely provides ground to make it one to remember.

It is unfortunate that such fine tuned athlete had to suffer from a clotting incident. Certainly not fair to him and all of his work to be on top of his sport but sadly blood clots don't care. Under the appropriate circumstaces anyone can be a victim. In the case of Mr. Horner he was lucky to listen to his body as well as to the advise of his physician and took action in order to be treated.

I have no doubt that he is already on the come back trail and maybe even donning some spandex hopefully only indoors for now...

Here is hoping for a full recovery for Mr. Horner. Finding his way back to the pro-peloton sure is a story that I plan to follow for multiple reasons...
*** The inspirtation that it will provide.
*** Because as a member of the brotherhood of hair-challenged men I support him.
*** Because this guy rides bike and that is beautiful...

As life will have it is unlikley that I will ever be able to meet Mr. Horner let along ride him... or I should say watching from behind as he speeds away from me in an attempt to keep up with him... but his story of returning to top form in the pro-peloton will be on that I plan to follow closely.

Now we are not only connected in the balding man brotherhood but also in the community of athletes with blood clots which inspire each other every day.

Here is wishing Mr. Horner a speedy recovery and I look forward to see the sort of damage he is looking to dish out upon his return...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Summer SLOW DOWN...!

2011-08-18T19:52:00.000-07:00

Where is the summer going?

How did it become the middle of August already?

Good fun all around which is why I wish that the summer would slow down some so that we can enjoy more time outside...

Checkout these pictures of us messing around...

Early start in the work force...

Junior doing his very own "triathlon" at home... that was very cute all around.

Sad photo of the Clot Buster in action at the Giant Eagle Columbus Triathlon... I was hurting on that race... This weekend I hope to do much better...We will see!

Junior with his soccer kit... we can't play without it on!

Here is hoping that this comfortable summer weather sticks around for a while.

The polka-dots will be racing this weekend in Springfield, OH @ Buck Creek State Park. If you see the Clot Buster please say Hi!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

JULY ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

2011-07-23T10:19:00.000-07:00

Here we are in the middle of the summer fighting the heat as we attempt to get ready for our summer events... I have 3 more races to go this summer and to tell you the truth I need some inspiration to get out there and represent the STOP THE CLOT polka-dots as I battle the elements...

This month's athelete of the month provides me (and I hope that for your too) the inspiration I need to keep training and racing to create awareness about blood clots and blood clotting disorders. Also, to keep me cool all I need is to think of her training grounds in Scotland where mild temperatures, rain, and wind make me think of cool thoughts as I am sweating buckets...

I am very fortunate to have the chance to introduce you to BECS WILLIAMS who from across the pond has been kind of to share her story of survival with us. How amazing is today's world of technology that allows us to be connected and learn/get inspired by other thousands of miles of away... Becs HUGE THANKS for sharing your story!

1) What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it?
I don’t really have a specific sport, I like to do quite a range of things, so I guess you could call it multi-sport. I enjoy it because it gives me variety and stops me from getting bored. Before I got ill I was regularly road biking, flat and hill running, mountain biking, kayaking, and open water swimming; last year I took part in around 5 or 6 triathlons or duathlons; when I’m back to full health I’m planning on pursuing adventure racing which also involves a bit of orienteering.

2) How did you get started in that sport?
I got started in multi-sport as a result of my boyfriend – when I lived in cities I was always an avid gym goer and also enjoyed running outside in parks etc, but after moving to Scotland in February 2010 I’ve not set foot in a gym since; I’ve got a new road bike, a new mountain bike, a wetsuit and access to various kayaks, a few great training buddies and some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK on my doorstep to train in.

3) What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve?
I’m doing a race at the weekend www.wickedwolftriathlon.co.uk, last year I was 2nd female and was planning on attempting to take the first spot this year after my boyfriend bought me a nice new mountain bike and I’d been training pretty hard (for me) up until May. Unfortunately I’m not able to do the bike or run sections this year so have formed a team with a friend, I’ll be doing the kayak and she’ll be doing the rest (using my new bike!). I’ve not been able to do any running or biking since May, but have done a bit of yoga, swimming and kayaking so hopefully my fitness will be ok. After this weekend, I’m not sure what my next race will be – I’m keen to rest as much as possible until my leg looks as normal as possible!
4) Tells about your clotting episode. Are you on blood thinners now? How long were you out of commission?
I got my second blood clot in the middle of May this year (2011) – almost 2 months ago – it actually feels like a lot longer. I had my first clot in September 2001 (I was lying in my hospital bed when the twin towers were struck); it was an extensive clot in my left thigh, and I was on Warfarin for 6 months. My left leg has always been weaker as a result of the damage my first clot did to my main vein, however it’s not really stopped me doing my training and I learnt to recognise when I was doing too much, it would swell up occasionally, but I just rested it when I needed to. My second clot was a bit of shock, particularly due to the fact I was probably at my fittest in terms of lifestyle and the volume of exercise I was doing. I had recently come back from a cycling trip in Majorca where I’d done over 350 miles of mountainous cycling in one week, my leg had been swelling up a bit during the trip, but no more than I’d expected it to. The week following Majorca my muscles in my left leg were hurting more than usual so I decided to go to the doctor for a check up. As a result of my history then sent me for a scan on my leg, however it came back negative, as did the follow up scan 10 days later. I then carried on with my training which involved regular hill runs and bike rides; however I did another race which involved a 37mile cycle and following that my leg never really recovered. It started to swell and hurt a lot, deep down I knew it was a clot but still hoped that it would go away. Following over a week of taking painkillers and travelling around the UK with work I decided it was time to go for an emergency scan. The scan showed that I had a clot in my left calf… I have been out of action ever since and will be on Warfarin for the rest of my life.

5) When were you able to get back into your activity? How did it feel that first time?
I haven’t done any running or cycling yet, I still have mild feelings of panic when my heart rate goes up, particularly if I’m on my own – largely as I’m conscious that I probably still have some form of a clot in my leg so will still be at risk of an embolism. My leg still hurts to walk too far and if I push it by doing a slight jog (perhaps to the shop) the aching feeling comes back. I’m finding it a lot harder to get over my clot mentally this time than I did the last time in 2001, I’m not sure whether it’s because I’m older, or because I feel like I’ve got more to lose now. I think I’m unlikely to do much in terms of serious training this year; I’ve bought a new digital SLR camera to fill the void of exercise and have increased my focus on my voluntary work. My boyfriend is still doing a lot of races, so I’m going along to them and meeting up with friends and enjoying the social side of it instead.

6) What is your favourite piece of gear for your favourite activity?
My favourite bit of kit has to be my road bike – I love it – it’s a Kuota Korsa and I’ve had it for just over a year. It’s light and fast and I’ve covered a lot of miles on it. I miss riding it a lot.

7) What is your favourite food? Either generally or after a workout. For me there is nothing better than a Chipotle Burrito...
My favourite food is smoked haddock risotto – I love it!

8) What would like to say to someone who is going through a clotting episode, perhaps very similar to yours? How can people return to do what they enjoy? Tells about your concerns and what you look out after as you got back.
I would say to anyone else who’s going through the same thing… don’t rush it – your bike or running shoes will still be there a few months down the line – your body’s recovery is way more important, so listen to how it feels and don’t take it for granted. My main concern now is that I’ll always be on Warfarin – I’m not too bothered about the blood tests etc, and I’m happy that being on the drug reduces my risk of yet another clot, however it’s more the fact that I have to be more careful not to injure myself and the impact this is going to have on my performance – will it make me even more weary when descending hills on my mountain bike or road bike for example? I don’t know, I’ll just have to see how I get on. On a positive note, I survived, I’m here to tell another tale and I’m lucky that I know one day I should be able to return to what I enjoy. It’s important not to mope around, but to make the most of your time off and maybe focus on some other area of your life that may benefit from some attention.
Keep smiling, life is good!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Gallery of Photos from Canada - Part 3

2011-07-16T19:48:00.000-07:00

Gallery of Photos from Canada - Part 2

2011-07-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

Gallery of Photos from Canada - Part 1

2011-07-13T19:24:00.000-07:00

It has been too long...

2011-07-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe how fast time goes by...

It seems like it was yesterday that I raced the Half-Iron Distance Triathlon in Canada.

My still feels the pain from that effort.

I am still having a hard time getting some good workouts down.

I am still THRILLED with my effort in Canada and how I was able to finish the race.

A lot of people LOVED the CLOT BUSTER's polka-dots... mostly those who passed me... believe me up in Canada I did not get the chance to pass many folks.

All things considered it was a great experience.

I never thought that I would come that close to my PR based on how I felt starting the run.

Somehow I managed and I am very happy about that. I can't believe that I was able to complete that grueling 1.2 Mile swim. I never had to swim under a bridge/overpass which I thought was really cool.

The bike was flat and fast which I enjoyed but I was not ready to do either for 56 Miles... My legs were pretty fried before the start of the run. I did not think that I was going to pull off a good run at all. It was not a stelar but good enough to get me to the finish line.

Without a doubt I can do better.

Without a doubt I will have to shy away from Ironman... as I cannot even begin to imagine doubling the pain I felt after finishing... for that reason I am sticking with half-iron distance races if I feel like I need to challenge my self down the road.

For now I think that shorther races are in my future. However, I am turning 35 next year so I may have to "do" something special to celebrate my entrance into my new age group.

A MILLION THANKS TO THE MANY WHO CONTRIBUTED TO MY FUNDRAISING EFFORT, I am starting the process of puttnig together a new CLOT BUSTER polka-dot design that should make a lot of survivors out there look AMAZING while spreading the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

For now let's hope for a speedy recovery.

I just wish that my body would feel normal again as I am racing again at the end of July.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

CANADA Here we come!

2011-06-24T18:58:00.000-07:00

The Clot Buster Polka-dots are going over the border!

Half-Ironman Distance Triathlon is waiting for me over the border!

Wish me luck so that I don't crawl to the finish line over the border!

Junior is looking forward to see the bigger bigger bigger water falls over the border!

After the race we are going camping over the border!

Will they let me back in from over the border?

We are on our way to get over the border!

Junior is very excited for the road trip over the border!

I am going OVER board on this post...

See you when we come back! Stay tuned for update tweets from the race and our travels.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

3 Years & Counting!!! How Sweet it is!?!?!

2011-06-23T18:40:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe but in June of 2008 I started with these series of "ATHLETE OF THE MONTH" and without a question it has been one of the most

AMAZING

INSPIRING

LEARNING

Did I say INSPIRING...

things I've done on this blog. Every time I get a hold of a story or meet someone and learn their story I find myself thrilled, excited and motivated even more to keep going. Perhaps I will get the chance to touch others who may also get that little extra inspiration to return to a normal life after their clotting incident.

THANK YOU for coming along for 3 years!

Let's make it another 3!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

June Athlete of the Month

2011-06-13T18:24:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe that both yesterday and today were our first "nice days" in a long while... at least here in the Mid-West. The heat has been BRUTAL so early... Here is hoping for a milder summer...

Once more I have the privilege to come across a personal story of a clotting incident that can provide a great of inspiration based on the difficult and lengthy process she had to go through.

It is amazing how these clotting incidents can bring down anyone with very different presentations and with severe life-style impacts that not only affect the individual but all those around them.

Please read on...

"My name is Caroline Kelly. I was diagnosed with a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in my right leg four years ago when I was 19 years old. It started when I noticed pain in my right leg. At that time, I had not even heard of DVT or its symptoms. I play soccer, so I thought it was just a muscle spasm. I went to the emergency room (ER), because I could barely walk, and it felt like something was tightening in my leg. Nothing was found. However, the pain got worse, and my leg became warm and swollen, so I returned to the ER, which is when the DVT in my leg was diagnosed. I was taking birth control pills to regulate my menstrual cycle, which is the likely reason for my DVT, and it changed my life forever. I was tested for blood clotting disorders, but none were found, nor has anyone in my family had a blood clot.

I think this illness changed my life because I had to leave college. On top of that, I lost financial aid and college funding, and my mother had to quit her job to take care of me. My life was at a standstill. I went from being free to do what I wanted to total bed rest for 4 months. I could not stand or walk, because my leg pain was so excruciating. I had to keep my leg elevated to ease the swelling. I injected a blood thinner by needle into my stomach every twelve hours. It was a very painful and traumatizing experience for me, and I kept asking myself “Why me?” and “Will I be alright?” I found myself with tears in my eyes.

I learned that DVT affects thousands of people a year. I learned more about blood clots and the blood thinners that treat clots and the risks for blood clots, including birth control pills. If clots travel to the lung, a pulmonary embolism (PE) can occur. It’s very important to spread the word about the signs and symptoms of DVT and its associated risk.

I look at life differently now, and I am thankful every day when I wake up, and my faith sustains me. I now appreciate everything life offers, both good and bad. I’ve learned that life has lessons. I’m so blessed and fortunate that my blood clot was caught before it traveled to my lungs, so I was never short of breath. My advice to others is to stay healthy, move, and keep in shape to keep your blood flowing. It is also important to be aware that birth control pills carry risk for blood clots."

Thankfully Caroline's clotting incident was treated on time before it got worse.

As you read the impact on her life and on the life of others was very significant. But as the clotting incident brought the hardships described together, Caroline and her mother, can begin the journey to allow Caroline to have as a normal life as possible.

Here is hoping for her to return to college and to the soccer fields!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Need Your Help!

2011-05-29T18:00:00.000-07:00

This year's "big" race will be in Canada.

It will be a Half-Iron Distance Triathlon for a total of 70.3 Miles.

The training is hurting.

But it is worth it if I can fundraise the amount I need to design and manufacture dedicated cycling and triathlon jerseys to continue spreading the word about... STOP THE CLOT.

We need more polka-dots out there to wake people up and let them know that blood clots and blood clotting disorders are a GREAT danger.

If you have in you and can spare as little or as much as you can please checkout the link below...

http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/roland_theclotbuster-varga/2011wellandontariohalf-irondistancetriathlon

Your help is very much appreciated!

With that I will hubble down stairs and continue my ice bath... 65+ Miles of biking and intense running have me wrecked...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

May Athlete of the Month

2011-05-11T21:03:00.000-07:00

As I was looking through the www.STOPTHECLOT.org website I came across the following profile article that sent chills down my spine...

I have not had the opportunity to meet KARA KING - CLOT BUSTER MAY Athlete of the Month, but if she and her friends are working to get a STOP THE CLOT 5K race organized in order to spread the word and create awareness she qualifies as SURVIVOR and an ATHLETE in my book.

Please read Kara's story below and if you are in Austin, TX checkout this event which I would love to do... Does Southwest fly to Austin...!?!? Can I get a deal if I bring my polka-dots !?!?!

"September of 2010 in Austin, was busy in the King household. The kids had just started a new school year, I was neck deep in volunteer work at school, and I was teaching cooking classes on fall cooking techniques. We were so busy that I never stopped to think about the weird pains that started affecting my body. The first occurred when I awoke with a sharp stabbing pain in my left chest. I did not feel any shortness of breath, but I felt pain when I took a deep breath. When my chest pain persisted for a few hours, I called my doctor, who said it was just a pinched nerve, and to take a muscle relaxant, which didn’t help. I was miserable for 2 more days, and then felt the same stabbing pain on the other side of my chest. I immediately called my doctor again. His assessment was that I was straining my right side to compensate for the pinched nerve on the left. The doctor again said to keep taking muscle relaxants, even though I told him that they were not having any effect.

I knew something wasn’t right. I even asked my doctor during our phone conversation whether I could be having a pulmonary embolism (PE). I knew my symptoms were classic for a PE, because I have an undergraduate degree in biomedical science. His answer was “You don’t have a PE, take the muscle relaxants, and you’ll feel better in a few days.” I listened to my doctor’s advice, and did not seek a second opinion. I should have trusted my own instincts and gone to the emergency room.

Like we all do, I didn’t spend too much time thinking about things, just got busy with my daily life as best I could and tried to ignore the pain. I decided to go for a walk to try to “work out” the pinched nerve after my second call to my doctor. During my walk, I felt winded and noticed that my left leg felt very tired, heavy, and it took a lot of effort to move it. It was a 95 degree day so I told myself I was dehydrated. Later that night, my leg felt like I pulled a muscle, and it woke me during the night. I took more muscle relaxants without relief.

The following morning began like any routine day. I put my 2 little boys on the bus for school. My 4 year old daughter was eating breakfast as she watched cartoons, and I was drinking a cup of coffee and paying bills.

I had gotten up to get ready to run some errands, and all of a sudden, my leg stopped moving. I literally couldn’t lift it or bend it. I looked down and was shocked at what I saw: my left leg was purple and twice the size of my right! I screamed so loud that my husband, who works from home, came running.

It was at that moment that all my symptoms “clicked.” I knew I had a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and that I was right about having a PE. My husband, Ben, rushed me to the nearest emergency room (ER), with our daughter in tow. In retrospect, I realize that an ambulance would have been a wiser choice in case my symptoms worsened enroute, but we thought we’d get there faster by car, and we were in a panic. I was put through a series of tests, including an ultrasound and chest CT in the ER.

When the official diagnosis came in, both my husband and I were terrified. I had a blood clot that completely blocked the length of my left leg, and had PEs in both of my lungs. I was taken to ICU, because I was at extremely high risk for the clot to break off and travel within the next 24 hours. Because I already had 2 clots in my lungs we know the DVT was breaking apart, and the fear was that another break could occur. The doctors saw the first 24 hours as critical, and let me know, in no uncertain terms, that I could die at any moment. The fear gripped me and it was difficult to remain calm, especially because my sweet little girl was so frightened. Thoughts were racing through my mind. I was feeling upset that I had told my sons “see you this afternoon” instead of “goodbye” in the morning rush, and now I was in a situation that might prevent me from watching them grow up. I wondered if my wonderful husband would cope if I didn’t make it home. I was terrified knowing that my next breath might be my last.

I spent 5 days in the hospital, 3 in the ICU. My recovery has been long, slow, and painful. I decided I wanted to find another doctor, so I did research and found a hematologist, someone who knew how to treat DVTs. I waited 3 weeks for an appointment, but it was worth the wait. I was in intense pain to the point that I couldn’t walk, and I was taking pain pills around the clock. She put me on low molecular weight heparin injections instead of oral blood thinners, and the improvement in my symptoms was dramatic. The swelling in my leg decreased, and I stopped pain medicine within 10 days. Nevertheless, I still had a long recovery ahead, because I also developed a pleural effusion and lung infarction on my right side, both very painful. My hematologist referred me to a vascular surgeon, because I was still feeling pain and heaviness in my leg after 4 months.
The vascular surgeon diagnosed May-Thurner Syndrome, which is a compression of my iliac vein. The compression caused my blood to pool behind my iliac vein, and caused blood to clot in my abdomen and left leg. I had surgery in February 2011 to place a stent to open the collapsed vein. The vascular surgeon discovered an extensive clot in my abdomen, and he inserted three times as much stent as he anticipated.

Since then, the blood flow in my leg is much better. The heaviness is gone and I’ve resumed cooking for my catering business, without having to rest every 20 minutes. I almost feel normal again. I feel like it’s important to note that my chest pain came before I felt any discomfort in my leg. Had the 2 clots that went to my lungs been any bigger, I would have died without every having symptoms of a blood clot.

It’s been a long road, and I will never fully heal. My femoral vein is damaged permanently, and my emotional scars will be tough to overcome. I was depressed, scared, and convinced that at any moment I would stop breathing right after my diagnosis. I held my kids constantly and cried because I couldn’t cook their dinner, attend their sports games, or even take them upstairs to bed. As time went on, I was able to climb the stairs again, and trek out to the soccer field, but my fear of leaving my children persists. Even though I don’t have a clotting disorder, I will be on some form of blood thinner for the rest of my life because of my May-Thurner Syndrome. I have learned to make everyday count, to make sure my children and husband know I love them, and to fight this clot with everything I have.

My husband and I, along with our best friends David and Jill Mapes, are organizing Austin’s First Annual Stop The Clot® Race. I am determined to raise awareness about signs and symptoms of DVT and PE, so that no one else will wait a week with chest pain and leg pain because a doctor dismissed their symptoms.

Blood clots kill more people every year than car accidents, yet there are driving rules and seatbelts for safety. Very few people know the signs and symptoms of a DVT or PE, and I am bound and determined to change that. I want to help raise money for people to increase this awareness, for better research in this field, and for those who may be financially strapped by a blood clot. Even though fear lurks constantly in the back of my mind, I want to show my clot that it awakened my spirit to fight and to Stop The Clot®.

For more information on the Austin TX, Stop the Clot race, go to www.pathfinderracing.com"

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

2011-05-11T20:12:00.000-07:00

By now you have seen my posts about a clot survivor determined to cover ALL of the 26.2 Miles of the Flying PIG MARATHON.

On the first weekend of May TOM WISEMAN donned the STOP THE CLOT - Clot Buster polka-dots and conquered all of those 26.2 Miles to show everyone out there that even after suffering from a clotting incident it is possible to complete the marathon!

I don't know about you but I am sure inspired to get out there and continue to prepare and spread the word to all who is willing to listen.

Tom - THANK YOU for the dedication and inspiration!

But don't fear! I just got word that Tom is not done yet... he has decided to take on his next challenge head on and even set a time goal for himself that looks to improve on his time from the Flying Pig.

Tom we will all see at the AIR FORCE MARATHON in Dayton, OH!!!

All Clot Busters out there will be rooting again for you!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Flying Pig Marathon >>> TOM WISEMAN - CLOT BUSTER in ACTION!!!

2011-04-30T19:22:00.000-07:00

Hey Cincinnati!

Be in the lookout for some STOP THE CLOT Polka-dots out in the marathon course!

Mr. TOM WISEMAN will be walking the 26.2Miles sporting the CLOT BUSTER polka-dots!

If you see him give him some encouragement.

He is a survivor of blood clots and an example to all of us to keep going!

GOOD LUCK TOM!!!

Looking forward to hear how it goes!

You are an inspiration!

Thank You,

The Clot Buster

Photo Update from the Last Month

2011-04-26T18:55:00.001-07:00

It is been a while since I posted some pictures...

I guess time just gets away from me and with the ability of cutting corners with 140 characters I am falling behind here...

Check out some pictures of what we have been doing lately...

10 Miller Race from early April...

My Birthday...

.

Easter...

Amazing times without a question.

I am very lucky that is for sure.

Looking forward to more pictures over the summer as we gear for a season of racing, STOP THE CLOT work spreading, fundraising, and more...!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

April Athlete of the Month

2011-04-05T18:28:00.000-07:00

This month's feature of Athlete of the Month is taking us to the other spectrum of individuals who are not world class athletes but on their own right are making HUGE strides to beat and recover from their clotting incident.

April's Athlete of the Month has an inspiring story that I am very proud to share as it is very inspiring to me. As I find myself looking at what I can do this summer to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders I think of this person and what he has been through and where he is going. Knowing of his story of come-back makes the polka-dots on my jersey brighter and far more meaningful...

Please allow me to introduce to you Mr. TOM WISEMAN. As a blood clot survivor he is getting ready to tackle the FLYING PIG MARATHON in May and he is raising funds to help in the cause. Check out TOM's FUNDRAISING PAGE HERE.

Please read on below Tom's story and get inspired!

"My name is Tom Wiseman, and I am from Sidney, OH - born and raised. All of my life, with the exception of 4 years of college and a 6-year stint in Cincinnati, I have lived in my hometown. My college years were spent in Dayton at Wright State University, where I received my B.S. in Business, but more importantly received the love of my life, Lori Lynn Belmaggio from West Milton, OH. I have returned to college a couple of times, once for MBA classes at Wright State, and also at Edison State for technical training during the brief time I was working in sheet metal fabrication. I am currently pursuing my ChFC designation in an effort to enrich my career as a financial advisor. While none of this seems to have much to do with a DVT / PE story, it actually does. During my life, I have prided myself on being relatively educated, intelligent, and pretty health-conscious. Since high school, I have always continued my life's education and tried my best to keep myself in shape. In fact, right after high school I got into running, and completed many 5K's and a 10K. But as things got busier, I got away from running, but always tried to get back into it.

The years of 2001-2008 was filled with challenges, turmoil, failures, and perseverance. My family and I struggled with job changes, address changes, family and health issues, depression, and ultimately financial struggles. I bounced around from job to job in the financial industry - and ultimately worked in an industry for two years that I was not trained or educated in, moved back to Sidney from Cincinnati, my parents both became ill (however, they are TOUGHER THAN HELL - they are BOTH cancer survivors !!!), and we nearly lost everything because of the financial difficulties that were a compound affect of everything else. Although never clinically diagnosed, I am sure that I was suffering mental depression during a good period of that time, angry at myself for my lot in life. I was too smart for all of this to have happened to me !!! In hindsight, I was able to get through this time because of these primary reasons: My supportive wife (a weaker woman would have left my sorry butt), a supportive family, and my faith in my savior, Jesus Christ.

But regardless of all of that, my life changed forever in March of 2008. While working at the sheet metal factory (and during a time that I wasn't exactly taking care of myself at all), I noticed that my left leg was swelling and hurt alot behind my knee. I dismissed it as an injury, perhaps from jumping off of a forklift at work, or playing in a dodgeball tournament at the YMCA. When the swelling got worse, I tried to treat it with heat and cold. At the suggestion of my aunt, who is a nurse, I went to my doctor, who suggested I take a blood test at the hospital. It wasn't much more than 45 minutes later, and he ordered me to the ER. After a short stay, it was determined that I had a blood clot, but was SENT HOME with Lovenox and a small dosage of Coumadin.

I was told to stay off work for a couple of days and keep my leg elevated. During my time at home, the area near my lower lungs started to have sharp pains (which I had had before for a few months), and I just didn't feel right. I couldn't breathe. My wife, who is infinitely smarter than me, said "You don't feel well, do you?" After agreeing, she called my doctor, who ordered me to the ER again. It was then determined that I had massive DVT in my left leg and that the clotting had gone to my lungs, and had formed PE's all the way through my lungs. This was April 1st - April Fool's Day - how fitting. As I sit there in the ER, a team of doctors kept going past me with that "concerned look" on their faces. After giving several gallons of blood, having an ultrasound and a CAT scan, I was told that I may have to be put in the ICU. I had just turned 36.

36. ICU. Are you kidding? All the other troubles I had in the past 7 years paled in comparison to this. I had a wife and 4 children. What would they do? Interestingly enough, during this time I was being recruited by my current firm to return to the financial services industry. After contemplating the fact that I was so thankful I had enough life insurance that my family would be fine if I died, the choice to return to the career I knew was an easy one to make. I now had a story. I had my passion.

Fortunately, I was admitted to the telemetry unit, was drowned with heparin, and was released 3 days later. The PE's had all gone away, although I did have some slight tissue death in one of my lower lungs, but nothing to be concerned about. I will be a coumadin "lifer," because I have had DVT / PE and I tested positive for the Factor V Leiden protein. My left leg does swell slightly from time-to-time due to slight valve damage. But other than that, I am a healthy 39-year-old.

I have had my "wake up call." Now I want to help awaken the world to what I call the "silent killer." I was blessed. I got back to the ER in time - the head physician on duty that night had said that if I had waited another 24-36 hours, I probably would have died.

Everyone needs to know the dangers of DVT and clotting disorders, which is the indirect or direct cause of many deadly heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory-circulatory arrests.

I plan on living a long, full life - and I want to help raise awareness to prevent any unnecessary deaths or disorders associated with the Factor V Leiden condition, DVT, or PE. All of the things I have been through some would consider somewhat tragic or unfortunate. I feel exactly the opposite - I have been blessed to have experienced things that some people will never be able to experience. From having myriad difficulties, to raising a developmentally delayed child (our 8-year-old has an undiagnosed general delay), to having DVT / PE...I have been given the privilege of all of this - because God knows I AM STRONG ENOUGH TO HANDLE IT ALL. Bring it. My motto: MOST EXCEL AT EXISTING...THE BEST EXIST TO EXCEL."

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Closing March as DVT Awareness Month

2011-03-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

I've done what I could this fine month to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

The Clot Buster polka-dots sure are warming up to be racing this season. That is the time of the year when I really do my work to let as many people as possible know about the STOP THE CLOT message.

My racing schedule is taking shape and I invite to keep an eye on my "Racing Schedule" side bar for updates as to where the polka-dots will end up. For sure you know now that I am going to Canada to be racing. Should be a fun trip... First international trip for Junior who will get his first passport stamp!

Outside of the race in Canada I am trying to figure the next races of the year. I am excited about the opportunities but be sure that for the race in Canada I plan to fund raise again as it is been a while since I've done. My plan is to raise enough funds to get NEW BIKE JERSEYS and TRIATHLON JERSEYS manufactured and available to all with a donation to www.STOPTHECLOT.org

So, if you have suggestions of races I should send them my way. You never know when the Clot Buster polka-dots may heading to your town...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

March Athlete of the Month

2011-03-04T10:20:00.000-08:00

By now you probably have already heard...

Multiple Tennis Grand Slam Champion SERENA WILLIAMS was treated earlier this week for a Pulmonary Embolism.

There is not much more I can say about this person since she is so well known thanks to her success both on and off the tennis court. It would be a privileage and an honor to meet her and pick her brain about her clotting incident. Unfortunately, I am sure that the last thing she wants to do at this point is talk to anyone let alone the Clot Buster.

I am still stunned about the news.

Just another example that anyone is vulnerable to blood clotting incidents.

I wish her nothing short of a FAST AND COMPLETE RECOVERY. I have no doubts that she will return to the court and prove once more that it is possible to survive a clotting incident. I am thankful that she received fast and accurate treatment which will help her in the long run.

It is ironic in many ways that story came to life in March which is DVT AWARENESS MONTH. I sorry that it is at her expense but the extra attention towards blood clots can only help to spread the word that much more.

Mrs. Serena Williams - GET BETTER SOON!!!

Just imagine if she was to compete in a tennis tournament with a red polka-dot outfit with STOP THE CLOT written some place.

The Clot Buster can surely dream...

Take some time to learn more about blood clots and blood clotting disorders. A great place to start can be www.STOPTHECLOT.org

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

MARCH is DVT AWARENESS MONTH

2011-03-02T14:01:00.000-08:00

Pass on the word!

MARCH is DVT Awareness Month.

Learn about blood clots and blood clotting disorders. One place to start is www.STOPTHECLOT.org

Anyone can be affected by blood clots...

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT A STORY THAT I CAN'T BELIEVE...

Learn as much as you can because you simple don't know when it can come about.

SPREAD THE WORD!!!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Blood Clots in the News...

2011-02-24T14:54:00.000-08:00

It is getting to be March Madness soon and this article I found on STOP THE CLOT's Facebook Group page is very fitting for the times ahead...

"CofC's Simmons still recovering recovering from clot;"

Although is not fun this is just another reminder that blood clots can affect anyone at any time.

Learn more about blood clots and blood clotting disorders at www.STOPTHECLOT.org

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

February Athelete of the Month

2011-02-15T17:49:00.000-08:00

I came across February's Athlete of the Month by chance...

I read KAITLIN HAYWOOD's story as it was posted on the STOPTHECLOT Facebook page.

Please read on below the article I read and once more BE INSPIRED to enjoy life as it comes because we simply have no control as to what the next day will bring... (You can also read the article directly HERE).

"Twenty-year old Kaitlin Haywood, a junior at Southeast Missouri State University, was walking across campus last June when she started feeling ill. She made it inside Parker Hall, where she coaches a children's competitive gymnastics team, before passing out.
University staff called 911 and Kaitlin was rushed to the Emergency Department at Southeast Hospital. The ER physician, suspecting she may have a potentially fatal blood clot, ordered a CAT scan. Kaitlin was admitted to the Hospital and placed in ICU. Test results determined she had pulmonary emboli -- blood clots in the lungs. "I had multiple, massive blood clots," Kaitlin recalls.

Her condition deteriorated rapidly, according to Mark Dalton, DO, a Southeast adult hospitalist. "Kaitlin had a fast heart rate, and her blood pressure and oxygen levels began to drop. An echocardiogram report showed the right side of her heart was failing and she needed urgent treatment," Dr. Dalton says.

David A. Law, MD, of Cardiovascular Consultants and the Southeast Hospital Medical Staff, performed catheter-directed thrombolysis, a minimally invasive procedure which likely saved Kaitlin's life. "Before this treatment was available, we usually had to perform surgery," Dr. Law says. "This approach allows us to deliver clot-dissolving medication directly to the clot."

Kaitlin's condition improved, and within 48 hours her vital signs were normal. James C. Mosley III, MD, of Southeast Hematology/Oncology, ultimately found the pulmonary emboli were caused by Antiphopholipid Antibody Syndrome -- a rare autoimmune disorder that carries an increased risk of blood clots. "The treatment is long-term, including lifelong, use of anticoagulants (blood-thinners) to reduce the risk of recurrent potentially life-threatening clotting complications," Dr. Mosley says.

Kaitlin says the anxiety of initially not knowing what caused the blood clots and later the realization that she would be on medication the rest of her life were overwhelming. But she adds that the doctors and Hospital staff kept her informed and made her feel comfortable.

An exercise science major, Kaitlin was a competitive gymnast from ages 6 to 18. Kaitlin says that although she can no longer physically do gymnastics because of the risk of internal bleeding, she enjoys working with kids and plans to continue coaching. "I like passing my knowledge on," she says."

To me is very important to read that the doctors who took care of Kaitlin suspected that a blood clot was causing the issue and then tailored their treatment to save her life. Any hesitation from the doctors would have been tragic in this case. So, CONGRATULATIONS to all the doctors and staff who truly were able to identify the situation quickly and resolved it with a happy ending.

She may not be competing any more in gymnastics but she is involved in what she truly loves which is another example of individuals thriving even after they suffered from a clotting incident.

Get inspired!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Second Annual 5k Walk to Promote Blood Clot Awareness Month

2011-02-13T17:45:00.000-08:00

The National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA) and the Association of Black Women Attorneys (ABWA) sponsor a 5K walk to promote blood clot awareness on Sunday March 27, 2011 in Brooklyn, NY.

I so wish that I could be there taking part with all of the polka-dot wearing Clot Busters of NYC.

Someday I will find my way out there for sure.

In the mean time I think that it is time that Columbus, OH gets an event like this organized. If not in 2011 perhaps in 2012 it can come together. It is time to get busy with this.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

January Athlete of the Month

2011-01-22T12:25:00.000-08:00

2011 begins and with it another opportunity to meet blood clot survivors that can inspires with their stories of overcoming and pushing through.

Let me start the new year with a story I came across while browsing my endless backlog of magazines... At this time I am still catching up with October and November issues... I am not really sure how I fell this far behind but that is where I stand.

At any rate, reading through the Triathlete Magazine's Kona Review I found the story of BRIAN ORINGDERFF and I about fell out of my seat.

Brian not only is a survivor of a very severe clotting incident but also a survior of a very personal tragedy that pushed him hard to a dark plance from which is very difficult to return from. But then a stroke of luck changed his life and brought him back... "It's been a challenging year for Brian Oringderff of Canton, but training for a grueling triathlon is giving him the physical and emotional strength to carry on.

Oringderff is preparing for the Ford Ironman World Championship, which is on Oct. 9 in Kona, Hawaii. The race includes a 2.4-mile ocean swim, a 112-mile bike race and a 26.2-mile run. Competitors have 17 hours to finish the competition.

Athletes gain entry into the race by one of three ways: earning a slot at one of the qualifying events conducted worldwide, being selected in the Ironman Lottery or winning a slot through Ironman's charitable eBay Auction.

Oringderff, 40, a former college athlete who has participated in shorter triathlons, won his spot through the lottery.

In 2010, 7,339 people entered the Ironman lottery, which awarded 150 slots to U.S. citizens and 50 slots to international athletes.

"I knew I wouldn't have another chance to do this," said Oringderff, who manages a group of technicians for Hewlett-Packard, as to why he tried for a spot.

The race is helping him concentrate on something other than the devastating events of the past year.

Oringderff had shoulder surgery last August. Two weeks after the surgery, he started feeling a strange pain in his calf. He went to the emergency room and learned he had two large blood clots in his left calf.

Four blood clots had broken off and traveled through his body and lodged into his lungs, a condition, called a pulmonary embolism, which is fatal 33 percent of the time. As a result, he was sidelined from participating in or training for triathlons.

His spirits were held up by the prospect of the birth of his first child, a son named Jet. He was to be born in April but, due to circumstances doctors couldn't explain, Jet was born in January - 14 weeks premature.

Jet was improving for six days, Oringderff said, but developed sepsis and died on the seventh day.

Oringderff's wife, Denise, said learning he was selected in April for Ironman has been a "second chance" for him.

"It would have been easy for him to sit and mope around," she said. "He is taking it to another level. I couldn't be any more proud of him."

Focusing on the race, Oringderff said, has been good for him.

"For me, it has brought me full circle," he said.

Oringderff devotes 15 to 17 hours a week in intense training. He has worked with a triathlon coaching company, Endurance Concepts, to get in shape.

"I have been through so much," Oringderff said. "It has brought me back to good health and a good state of mind."

Catie Case, public relations coordinator for World Triathlon Corporation, which organizes the race, said they were unaware of Oringderff's circumstances, "but like so many of our athletes, he is truly an inspiration."

Oringderff said he didn't set out to inspire others, but is happy at the idea of others gaining hope from his journey.

"You have to move on," he said. "I honestly think my name was chosen for a reason.""

This is wihout a question an amazing story.

"Anything is Possible!" as the slogan from Ironman says.

Brian if you ever get around reading this post - THANK YOU for the inspiration. Maybe some day we can get you in some CLOT BUSTER polka-dots so that you can spread the word too about the dangers of blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

Get Inspired...!

2011-01-15T11:40:00.000-08:00

Back in July I had the chance to feature BRIAN VICKERS as an Athlete of the Month for 2010.

He is definitely a story of come back that I've been following for a while now and one that is sure to inspire all of us.

How does a NASCAR driver come back to race again? How does he get the courage to know that he needs to get behind the wheel of his car and drive for hours on end without the chance to move and expose himself to more dangerous clots as it is been the case once already in early 2010.

Well, somehow Mr. Vickers is coming back strong and should be able to race in 2011.

I am not a NASCAR fan but I will be sur to be checking the races to see how well Brian is performing and giving all of us the inspiration to craft our own come back.

If you want to read more details about Brian Vicker's come back please CLICK HERE.

Get inspired!

I think that we are starting off 2011 with a great story that can get all us motivated.

If you have any suggestions about races that I should do this year in which the Clot Buster Polka-Dots should be in full display please let me know. There are a lot of options out there I just need to figure out schedule that will provide the STOP THE CLOT mission the most exposure.

On we go!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster.

P.S.> If anyone knows why I was kicked out from the www.DAILYSTRENGTH.org support group I really would like to know. As of today, no explantion has been provided after multiple requests from me and others that saw that I joined the support group. If there is a reason it would be nice to have it shared. Otherwise I can only imagine that they reject the polka-dots and that is really hard to understand... what gives?

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Feliz Ano Nuevo!!!

2010-12-31T05:52:00.000-08:00

Here is wishing EVERYONE a New Year filled with

ALL THE GOOD HEALTH,

ALL THE GOOD FORTUNE and

ALL THE HAPPINESS

you can handle in 2011.

I am looking forward to take on the new year and see what it will bring.

The STOP THE CLOT >>> Clot Buster Polka-Dots will continue to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

If you see the polka-dots out at the races please make sure to stop by and say hello. It is a pleasure for me to meet as many people as I can and learn about their stories.

We much continue to fight and spread the word as much as possible so everyone knows about the dangers of blood clots and how we can all be in the lookout for them.

All the Best in 2011!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

December Athlete of the Month

2010-12-17T13:53:00.001-08:00

The world is small.

With every life turn that ones takes there is the chance for you to meet someone that without you knowing is associated to you or your loved ones.

I don't think that I will ever stop being amazed about the people that I get to meet simply because I was wearing the CLOT BUSTER polka-dots to an event in which I participated in.

December's Athlete of the Month is one of my most memorable stories of benig at the right place at the right time wearing the CLOT BUSTER polka-dots.

But I am not going to tell you the story... I much rather let December's Athlete of the Month MR. BOB SCULLY tell you the story as he answers my questions... enjoy!

1) What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it?
Well, up until about 2002 (age 46), my primary sport was running. Unfortunately, in 2002, the arthritis in my left hip became bothersome enough that I no longer enjoyed the sport; and I began spending more time bicycling and playing tennis.

2) How did you get started in that sport?
Who knows?! My father played a LOT of tennis, and I followed his example. As for running/cycling; for some reason I've always enjoyed the challenge of seeing how far I could run or bicycle. I've never been very fast, but I can keep going for a longtime! As a youngster I often challenged myself to see how far I could run or bike without stopping. I'm not sure my parents would have been pleased to know their 9 yr old had bicycled through the corn fields 10 miles to the next town and back! More officially, I ran Cross Country and played Tennis in high school; and I raced in the "Little 500" bike race in college.

3) What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve? (Long bike ride, some race coming up or that you did)
I wish I HAD a recent milestone to report, but due to the bad hip, my milestones are still stuck somewhere in the 1990's! So, if you'll allow an old man to reminisce a bit: I've run about 32 marathons, and as many half-marathons. I've run Boston about 5 times, which is also where I ran my PR of 2:52. My best time for the half is 1:17, and 10k is 35:00 min.

4) Tells about your clotting episode. Are you on blood thinners now? How long were you out of commission?
Fortunately, my clotting episode was fairly minor on the scale of such things, and all resolved fine.

The story: Finally, in April 2010, I had Hip Resurfacing surgery (as an aside, the hip feels GREAT now). One fact I missed in my research about joint surgery was over 50% of patients develop clots. Even though clots were mentioned as a possible side effect; I felt young (relatively so) and strong, and I really didn't worry much about clotting. I just figured a few "other" patients developed clots, and it was a rare side-effect that wouldn't afflict ME! Therefore, I was shocked, when one week after surgery, a routine follow-up ultrasound indicated I had a clot in a peripheral vein below the surgical leg's knee! The chosen treatment was mild, i.e. Aspirin and "Watchful Waiting." After 3 more ultrasounds (about 1 per week), we determined the clot was stable. It is no longer being monitored, and it's my understanding I'm now "out-of-the-woods."

When I learned of the clot, I did some research, and became quite alarmed/scared. I learned it's a SERIOUS condition, with possible SERIOUS consequences! That's when the man in the RED POLKA DOT SHORTS came riding to my rescue!

Just prior to the surgery, I rode in the Alumni Little 500 Bike Race at DePauw U. Another rider (well, actually, LOTS of riders) lapped me several times; but I remembered one rider in particular, because he wore Red Polka Dot Shorts, and the shorts displayed, "StopTheClot.org." Somehow, I tracked down the name of that rider, and it was Roland Varga, the host of this outstanding Blog!

Roland, and his wife, Elizabeth (who I've come to learn is a National Expert on Blood Clots) were absolutely wonderful to me. Both Roland and Elizabeth answered my questions, and helped educate me, so I could make informed decisions with my physician regarding the treatment of the clot. I can't tell you how nice it was to have their expert help at such a time!

Fortunately, my story has a happy ending, but I'm now very aware of clots; and I've spread the message to anyone who will listen, and especially to a few of my friends who have had recent surgery.

5) When were you able to get back into your activity? How did it feel that first time?
Fortunately, the clot only slowed me down during my recovery from surgery. Because of the Hip Resurfacing, I need to wait a bit longer before I can jog or train hard on a bike; but I AM allowed to take long walks, and it feels WONDERFUL to walk without the pain of arthritis.

By the way, if anyone has questions about Hip Resurfacing vs. Traditional Total Hip Replacement, please feel free to contact me: bscully@uclifeanddi.com.

6) What is your favorite piece of gear for your favorite activity? (Bike brand, running shoes, perhaps a running singlet or the Clot Buster's Running Polka-Dot Technical Shirt...)
Anything made by Pearl Izumi!

7) How much are you getting out doing your sport? (Everyday you do some training, 2, 3, 4 times per week)
Mainly just enjoying walking now. Looking forward to April 2011, when I hope to be given the go-ahead to train hard again!

8) What is your favorite food? Either generally or after a workout.
Warm Chicken Broth was THE best drink I ever had after a marathon in cool weather. Boy, did that ever hit the spot! I wish all race organizers would provide Warm Chicken Broth for Fall/Winter events.

9) If you could go some place to visit and explore, where would like to go?
Bicycling in Ireland.

10) What would like to say to someone who is going through a clotting episode, perhaps very similar to yours? How can people return to do what they enjoy? Tells about your concerns and what you look out after as you got back.
My main message would be to those about to have surgery, and that message is to be SURE to keep flexing those muscles, and doing all you can to keep that blood flowing during your recovery! Avoiding the clot in the first place is the way to go.

Mr. Scully - A MILLION Thanks for taking the time and your willingness to share your story. There is a great deal of inspiration that can be taken from you incident and how it is very important to be in the look out for symptoms regardeless of how fit you are.

I am looking forward to see you at DePauw University again during the Alumni race next year. Who knows by then you may be able to keep up with me... or better yet lap me a few times!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Holiday Season

2010-12-05T11:17:00.000-08:00

Resting.
Enjoying time with the family.

Attempting to get used to the colder temperatures (not easy at first - can't seem to find my running gloves nor my hats nor my tights... Ian must have miss-placed them for me).

Starting to get re-introduced to the indoor trainer. Can pedal forever but go no where.

Trying to keep my weight in check so that in 2011 I can get to an "ideal" weight that can let me race as far and fast as I like.

Setting up our Christmas Tree with the help of our son. This year he actually helped setting up the tree, decorating and cleaning up afterwords.

Of course baking cookies will not help the quest of my weight but really during the Holiday Season I can give my self some slack. Plus last night was the first time I got down to make some "running" ginger bread men.

Whatever is you are doing this Holiday Season enjoying it very much as you spend time with your loved ones.

Finally, keep spreading the word about our STOP THE CLOT message. The more people know about blood clots the better. Simply we cannot do enough as people continue to suffer and die from these silent killers. Our fight is far from over.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Thanksgiving Day Race 2010 - 11 years in a row...!

2010-11-24T20:05:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Day Race 2010 coming up on Thursday.

10K race course in downtown Cincinnati.

Best time = Last year 41:53

This year = Will be much much slower than that.

Also this year = Be in the lookout for the Clot Buster... new polka-dot shirt design to be revealed to the world... STOP THE CLOT!!!

Looking forward to the HUGE crowds and hopefully nice weather.

Finally... I am THANKFUL for YOU and your willingness to stop by and reading my posts. I very much appreciate your curiosity and time!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

November Athlete of the Month

2010-11-23T19:42:00.000-08:00

Is it really the end of November already?

Is it really time for Thanksgiving?

Is it really time to make the very difficult choice between Pumpkin Pie versus Pecan Pie after the turkey dinner?

Hard to believe that it is this far in the year.

Even harder to believe is that I did not get around to post about November's Athelte of the Month until now...

As of late I've been in "search mood" looking to see if I could find an inspiring story out there I could share with you guys. The right combination of search words got me to find the following article I would like to share with all of you.

Please allow me to introduce to DENESHIA LARSON from Gainesville, GA. Although I have not been fortunate enough to meet her I've been luck enough to find this article about her.

Please read and get inspired to overcome anything!

"Dave Larson will be carrying a big sign to show support and jumping up and down for his favorite athlete in Sunday’s Aflac Iron Girl triathlon at Lake Lanier Islands. Larson knows the potentially fatal health issues that his wife, Deneshia Larson, has overcome. Now he wants to celebrate as she tackles her first race with the swim, bike ride and run all tied together in this race designed solely for female competitors.

“I’m very proud of my wife,” Dave said. “She’s the kind of person that when she picks a goal, she goes after it.
“I just want to be as supportive of her as I can during the race.”

People take part in distance races for all kind of reasons. Some sign-up to celebrate the conquering of health issues. Some participate simply to stay in shape or improve on last year’s time, others to celebrate a milestone.

Still, Larson has to have one of the more remarkable stories. Doctors didn’t even know if she was going to live after she suffered from genetically inherited blood clots, which surfaced with scary symptoms while she was running in the spring of 2009.

Originally chalked up to stress, those symptoms couldn’t be ignored any longer after Larson almost passed out after running only about 50 yards near her home in North Hall one day. She scheduled a doctor’s appointment for the next day and was immediately hospitalized, doctors originally believing she may have suffered a heart attack.

It wasn’t a heart attack.

After almost a week in a hospital bed and a number of tests, including blood tests and chest X-rays, it was determined that her ailment was pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis — blood clots in the legs and both lungs. Both of these conditions are potentially deadly and doctors told the Larsons she would not have survived had it not been for her good physical condition.

Now, just a little more than a year removed from a shaky prognosis, she’s been cleared compete in her first triathlon.

“I just want to be able to finish the race,” Larson said. “Being able to complete the race is very important.”

She will not be competing in the race alone. Her sister, Jessica Warren, will be making the drive up from Jacksonville, Fla. to be right by her sister in the race. Aside from a little friendly trash talk between the sisters about who will finish first, Larson’s younger sister is just glad she’s got this opportunity to be going through such a grueling event together.

“I feel really privileged to be able to do this with my sister,” Warren said. “It really scared me when it happened because she was in the hospital for about a week.

“I know it’s a miracle she survived.”

After a long period of uncertainty during which she was unable to do any athletic training, Larson was given a clean bill of health by her hematologist on Oct. 26 of last year. After taking blood thinners for six months to combat the blood clots, she is back to a normal lifestyle, except for relatively minor precautions she must follow: taking an aspirin every day, staying well hydrated and limiting Vitamin K intake.

Shortly after getting the go-ahead to start training, the Larsons saw the previous year’s Iron Girl event televised. Deneshia immediately gravitated to what the race had to offer and was drawn to sign up. However, she had to take it easy at first.

First it was baby steps running. Then she would run a mile. On race day, it will be a three-mile run that women have to complete on a moderately hilly course.

Now, as a pair, the Larsons train regularly to have Deneshia ready for the race this weekend. Her biggest worry going into the race is the 1/3-mile swimming portion, since she’s only been training for stamina in the water for a few months. As for running, the Larsons train a few days each week during their lunch break from their respective jobs in Alpharetta.

Training on the bicycle is probably the most thorough.

After a ride of about 20 miles on Mondays, the couple will do a 30-mile trip on Wednesdays with friends from Reality Bikes in Cumming, then on the weekend they try to tackle about 60 miles.

Now, it’s all come together for Larson, who has previously competed in a number of half marathons — 5Ks and 10Ks — with her husband.

“She’s been training hard for this race,” Warren said. “And I know she wants to be able to place too.” "

Be Thankful this week because we are able to experience come-backs like Deneshia's. Anything is possible once you get the bill of clean health like she did. Never ever lose the hope that you can come back.

Enjoy the THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

BLOOD CLOTS In The News

2010-11-21T13:45:00.000-08:00

As I see these news articles I will pass them along for all to share.

Knowledge is power.

This article in particular can resonate with those of us who find ourselves attempting some sort of endurance event.

What ever your condition or level of athletic ability BE AWARE!

Please CLICK HERE for the article.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

BLOOD CLOTS In The News

2010-11-18T13:17:00.000-08:00

As I see them I will try my best to pass them for all of us to share.

Knowledge is power.

Knowing that blood clots affect people of all walks of life can serve as an indication that we need to be aware of all the signs and symptoms ALL THE TIME.

Please CLICK HERE to read this article.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

MARTY - YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!!!

2010-11-15T14:01:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to my friend and CLOT SURVIVOR MARTY BUSEKRUS in becoming an IRONMAN at IM FLORIDA!!!

Very proud to be able to share this as it is very inspiring to see him go the distance.

See the progression of his race day below.

Marty - CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Get inspired people!

We may not do an Ironman but we can get out there and do whatever is that we want to do even after a blood clotting episode.

Thanks for Reading,

The Clot Buster

UPDATE on June 2009's Athlete of the Month

2010-11-03T18:45:00.000-07:00

Last week I got a nice note from June 2009's Athlete of the Month - JIM FENTON in which he was telling me that he completed the CANNON BALL Half -Marathon wearing his polka-dots.

Mr. Fenton also told me that in this race he got a new PERSONAL BEST of 2:03 which destroyed his old PR of 2:32...!!!

Can you believe it!?!?!?

But that is not all, he also told me that through the NATThlete Program he was able to raise $1025.00!!!

JIM - THANK YOU for your efforts in spreading the word and rasing funds for our cause against blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

JIM - CONGRATULATIONS!!! on a Fantastic Time on your Half-Marathon. You got some speed my friend!

You are truly an inspiration to all of us looking to make a difference by wearing our polka-dots!

I am thrilled for you and I can't wait to learn more about your upcoming adventures!

Good Luck!

Thanks for reading AND GET INSPIRED!!!,

The Clot Buster

IM World Championships

2010-11-01T18:26:00.000-07:00

How about this year's race in Kona?

I can't believe that Chrissie Wellington whitdrew from the event. That sure opened the door for the women's field and the crowning of a new champion.

I can't wait to see the broadcast later on this winter.

The men's race was also very interesting. Fun battle on the run amongst all of the favorites.

The ability of these competitors to push themselves to such limits is simply beyond what I can understand. I admire anyone who can do an IM race. I drool and wonder if I can do one someday but I very quickly return to reality and think of the pain that I have felt attempting Half-Iron Distance races before. How in the world would I ever be able to double that distance and effort...? For now, the answer is NO WAY JOSE!

I am wondering however, when is it that we will have an American athlete as a winner of either race?

It is nice to see the international flavor of the event but I am tired of seeing other countries dominate the event with Americans significantly out of the runnig for the top podium spot. As Tim DeBoom announced that he was not racing at the Big Island anymore I wonder where is the next American Champion of this race in either gender. It just seems that we don't have what it takes anymore to contend for the title.

As a follower of the sport I see some American Stars in the distance and some stars fading away in the lava fields but in the near future it seems that the IM World Championships will continue to belong to the international field.

If that is the way it is then so be it. I like the sport far to much that it does not matter to me in the end because the competition and ability is what I am interested in regardless of its nationality.

So as I drift away again day dream about racing in Kona some day...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

GREAT NEWS!!!

2010-10-28T18:16:00.000-07:00

You probably saw my tweet about it...

But if you did not catch it please check out the following link to a news article the NATIONAL BLOOD CLOT ALLIANCE posted on their website a couple of weeks ago...

NEW GENERATION ANTICOAGULANT

This another alternative that will be available to people when treated for blood clotting episodes. Although this anticoagulant is currently only indicated for atrial fibrillation there is a good chance that eventually down the road it will be approved for other DVT/PE related indications as it is the case in other countries.

In the mean time do everything that you can to be aware of the sign of symptoms of potential blood clots. Ourselves are the first line of defense in combating clotting episodes. So, be on the look out!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

October Athlete of the Month

2010-10-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

October is one of my favorite months of the year.

Partly because fall is really taking hold of the season.

Partly because cinammon spice is again available for consumption... I also dig some pumpkin items but I am not as crazy about it as Mr. Clot Buster.

Partly because the swimming, the biking, and the running are less intense and I get to do whatever without really any structure.

Partly because European Soccer (Real Football) Leagues get finally under way and I get to follow my beloved teams.

And Partly because the IRONMAN WorldChampionships are in play the second weekend of the month. How I wish that I was good enough to some day do that race... For now I'll put that away in the "IN YOUR DREAMS" box...

However, I wanted to take this month's ATHLETE OF THE MONTH post to celebrate those I know who have completed or soon will complete and IRONMAN race and that are of course blood clot survivors!

I wish that I knew someone that is in Kona, HI right now who is about to race the IM World Championships... how cool would it be to follow that person? I am not that fortunate this year but I am sure there is someone racing tomorrow who has had a blood clot and it is survivor like all of the Athlete of the Month folks I've been able to write about.

So, let's remember and celebrate those that I have written about as OCTOBER's ATHLETE OF THE MONTH!

DEIDRE CALLAHAN - November 2008 - IRONMAN Lake Placid 2005

KRISTOFFER PERRY - October 2009 - IRONMAN Wisconsin 2009

MARTI BUSEKRUS - March 2010 - IRONMAN Florida 2010

My goal is to someday have a long list of people I could celebrate in October as finishers of IRONMAN events. However, any event is a tremendous accomplishment for someone returning to "normal" life after a clotting incident.

I am alawys inspired by what people can achieve with determination and inspiration.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

September Athlete of the Month

2010-09-08T15:57:00.000-07:00

Where is the time going?

I am not ready for the summer to be over.

I refuse to admit that soon I will have to put away my shorts.

This year I am going as long as I can but somehow I don't think that the fall colors will allow for me to go much longer...

So, with little of the summer left and hoping that cycling time comes back faster than last year, September's Athlete of the Month sure can provide some serious inspiration to all of us to get out and enjoy every moment to be best of our abilities...

Please let me introduce to JEANNE KRULL - September's Athlete of the Month.

Come on and CLICK HERE for JEANNE's story of survival.

If I am lucky enough some day I hope to personally meet Jeanne and get to ride with her. I am sure she has some stories to tell besides the one she shared with all of us. I need to ask her about bike touring in Tuscany... how cool is that?

I am always amazed of how fortunate people in shape are when faced with a deadly blood clot. I am very Thankful to have the chance to share these stories with you because everyone of them keeps me inspiraed to spread the word about STOP THE CLOT!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

STOP THE CLOT.org News + Racing this Weekend

2010-08-24T18:31:00.000-07:00

If you have time to spare this article is currently on NBCA's website and it is an interesting read

>>> FDA Approves First Generic Enoxaparin Sodium Injection

It is great news that there is a generic alternative to the costly blood thinner currently available on the market. Of course any questions that patients may have concerning this generic prodcut should be discussed with their treating physicians.

================================================================

As I slowly recover from my monster 107 Mile ride of Saturday, I just came to the realization that I am racing a triathlon this weekend.

Yes this will be my very first Olympic distance race of the season.

Many questions I have about my current condition...

Will I be ready to ride well or will I be fatigued from the long ride the previous weekend?

Running a 10K...? I have no idea how am I going to do that.

I suppose we will know by 10AM Sunday morning so stay tuned!

If you happen to be near Oxford, OH come on by and checkout the race... More information can be found here >>> HUESTON WOODS TRIATHLON

Wish me luck this weekend.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

August Athlete of the Month

2010-08-11T18:05:00.000-07:00

Greetings from the Clot Buster!

Is it really August already?

Summer please don't go away so fast... I could use a few more warm months... slow down, stay a while!

Well, another month and again the time to honor a clot survivor as they make their way back to a normal life style.

This month's CLOT BUSTER Athlete of the Monhth I am borrowing from NBCA's web site... please let me introduce to you Mr. TIM ALLEN.

Please read Tim's story by clicking on the link below. Enjoy and get inspired >>>

National Blood Clot Alliance - TIM ALLEN's STORY

Mr. Allen's story is one that I will remember for a long time. I wish him the best of luck on his bike ride around Oklahoma and I will keep you posted as to how he does on his ride.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Riding around...

2010-07-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

Yes, for an entire a week the Clot Buster family did a whole lot of riding...

1915 Miles of riding in the car... from Columbus, OH all the way to Cape Cod, MA and back.

Mrs. Clot Buster and I had the chance to race a triathlon in Falmouth, MA and it was called the FALMOUTH SPRINT TRIATHLON.

It was a fantastic course with the swim in the Atlantic Ocean... that part was new for the two of us. Luckily it was calm and we did not have to fight any currents. But once out of the water the bike course was a treat along the coast and through some hilly terrain that tested my legs even if it was only 9.5 Miles...

Got to ride all over Yarmouth, MA on very nice roads with some views that were photo worthy... too bad I am not smart enough to take the camera with me.

We camped for two nights in the Pocono Mountains of Easter PA and I have to tell you that the hills out there were no joke... I had to grind my way up some of the hills I was able to find within a few miles of the campground. Again, not smart enough to take a camera with me to provide proof... but if you could feel what I felt on those grades you would understand.It was a FANTASTIC time in our first long vacation with Junior. He was sensational even after being many hours cramped in the car.

So, we are back and better than ever...

Looking to do a couple of more races before the summer is over. I am not sure which ones yet so I better get busy with my research... I toyed with the idea of a half-iron race in September but for the first time in my 50+ triathlon racing career I just don't think I can prepare for such a long event and be where I want to be. So, Olympic distance races it is for the rest of the year.

Be in the look out for the polka-dots near you... you never know they've made it all the way to Cape Cod and the Atlantic Ocean...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

July Athlete of Month

2010-07-12T18:23:00.000-07:00

In this edition of the Athlete of the Month we are going PRO...

But we are going pro VERY FAST...

NASCAR Fast...

Very recently I surprised to learn that a very popular NASCAR driver came down with a very serious episode of blood clots that unfortunately have parked him on the sidelines for this season...

It is unfortunate that I first learned about Mr. BRIAN VICKERS through the STOP THE CLOT network available to me. Thankfully he is fine and on his way to recover fully. Although there is a question about his eventual return to racing due to risk of being on blood thinners and the potential dangers of severe crashes that cause some serious complications. As far as I can read from the information available in the media he remains very involved with the sport and I have no question that somehow someway he will be back and putting the pedal to the metal.

Perhaps someday I will get the chance to meet Mr. Vickers and get to know him better and learn about his story to complement this post and make it more personal. I did not get the chance to ask him my usual 10 questions that I could share with all of you out there. But someday I will. My path as the Clot Buster surely will intersect a NASCAR drivers at somepoint through the bonding expirience of STOP THE CLOT.

Take a look at Mr. Vickers' website and follow along through his road to recovery.
I wish that next season he makes it back behind the wheel making those laps as fast as he can. How cool would it be that someday a red polka-dot NASCAR with the number 83 would make it in a race track out there just to spread the word about STOP THE CLOT at fast speeds?!?!?

Cheer for him!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

HAPPY 4th of July!

2010-07-05T11:26:00.000-07:00

Amazing how time gets away from you when you have fun.

Since Thursday it has been non-stop...

Thursday = Work Full Day + Celebrating Mrs. Clot Buster's Birthday with fancy dinner and cake...

Friday = Work Half Day + 50.85 Mile Ride + 888 Meter Swim + Tail gating from 6PM until the fire works in downtown Columbus...

Saturday = Attempted to rest... instead full day of sports on TV (are you kidding me... Germany VS. Argentina and Spain VS. Paraguay in addtion to the start of the Tour...) + picnic at Alum Creek Beach which included some Kayaking by all even Cacheton.
Sunday = Triathlon in the AM... Short and sweet sprint race that was an ALL OUT EFFORT with the polka-dots in FULL DISPLAY... 5th in my age group and 17th Overall out of 241 participants - not bad + 4th. July Parade for Ian to see Fire Trucks and Police cars with their lights on + mowed the lawn ahead of the brutal heat tomorrow + and a lovely cookout with some friends.

Monday = NOT WORKING... FANTASTIC...sorry to all of you out there but I enjoy my time away from work any way possible... Early morning hike with the family at Highbanks Park top it all off milkshakes on the way home. Now, Ian is sleeping and I am off to do more of my little "side-kick" projects around the house.

I would not change anything about this weekend. Just the way I like it!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

June Athlete of the Month - Part Two

2010-06-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

Please read on about more about the inspiring words from KATHERINE SIRON...

6) What is your favorite piece of gear for your favorite activity? (Bike brand, running shoes, perhaps a running singlet or the Clot Buster's Running Polka-Dot Technical Shirt...)
Can't live without my RoadID, GU, iPod, Saucony shoes, and DryMax socks! That care of your feet and they'll take care of you! We have awful humidity and heat in the summer here and good socks are a must! My RoadId is an absolute must! It's more important that anything I carry. It has all my contact info, doctors name and number, blood type, my DOB, drug allergies, and most importantly my HISTORY OF DVT AND PULMONARY EMBOLISM! I always wear it when I workout and travel. ALWAYS! Check it out for yourself!
http://www.roadid.com/Common/LearnMore.aspx?PID=37

7) How much are you getting out doing your sport? (Everyday you do some training, 2, 3, 4 times per week)
I've got a pretty busy schedule, so training and racing can be a little bit of a challenge. I'm in medicine and currently applying to graduate programs to become a Physician's Assistant and get my Masters in Public Health. Work, volunteering (which I do a lot of), and grad school applications take up a lot of the day, but I like to use the phrase "work hard, play hard". My long runs are on the weekend and I try to sneak in a spin class or evening run a couple days a week. Summers are hard here because we're already at high humidity and temps reaching the high 90s in the day. Some have snow and ice, we have HEAT! At least you can layer for the cold, with heat, you can only get so naked.

8) What is your favorite food? Either generally or after a workout. For me there is nothing better than a Chipotle Burrito...
I'm a definite food lover, so to pick just one would be too hard. When I was in Europe, I ate everything in sight! Always on my list are sushi, Chipotle salads, and a good hotdog ( I know! i know! Not healthy . . . but I have a favorite joint in Charleston that serves up the BEST dogs! Also ballpark hotdog can be pretty fabulous too! I'm a big Cubs fan!) :)

9) If you could go some place to visit and explore, where would like to go? Humm . . . good question! I LOVE to travel! Languages and culture are such a gift! I try not to act like a typical American when I'm abroad. Eat what they eat, do what they do, and soak it all in. Africa and New Zealand are next on my list. My family hosted a Bishop from Uganda last year and I promised him that I would come do medical mission work once my doctors cleared me to fly that far. Try breaking a promise to a Bishop! :)

10) What would like to say to someone who is going through a clotting episode, perhaps very similar to yours? How can people return to do what they enjoy? Tells about your concerns and what you look out after as you got back.
My best advice would be to talk about it! You feel like you're all alone and no one else could possibly know what you're going through. Sadly, there are too many people out there that know EXACTLY what your going through. Support groups and education people has been my saving grace. Knowing that my story might prevent one persons DVT episode and increase funding to spread the word about coagulation problems and veinous disease. Surviving the unsurvivable is a heavy load to bear and getting back on the horse is scary and difficult. You've got to live in the light and not think about the "what if's" too much. Yes, be smart. I'm not advocating you do something foolish and risky, but returning to what makes you happy is part of your recovery. Blood thinners aren't a prison sentence, they just need a little extra precaution. Wear your RoadID or other form of identification. Don't let fear rule your life. Pray, eat healthy, exercise, and live life to the fullest! Oh, and don't forget . . . STOP THE CLOT! :)

That is correct Katherine - STOP THE CLOT is what we are all about as we need to spread the word and let as many people know as possible so that we don't have any more close calls such as yours.

Thank you for your willigness to share your story. Without a doubt is great inpiration to all of us!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

June Athlete of the Month - 2nd year of postings about people that INSPIRE us all!

2010-06-16T18:49:00.000-07:00

Remarkable!

Outstanding!

Hard to believe!

Two years = 24 postings = A whole lot of inspiration to all who have had a blood clot and want to return to do whatever is that they love.

To celebrate the Second Anniversary of the Athlete of the Month Postings I want to introduce to you someone I got the chance to meet thanks to the magic of the web. I hope that I can someday meet her in person just to see if some of her abundant energy can rub off on me just by being around her...

Please allow me to introduce you to KATHERINE SIRON. Hers is a very interesting story of survival that was possible thanks to her being in shape. This time around I will start my post with an article that was written about Katherine that explains her ordeal much better than I can ever can so please read on... "That Katie Siron survived for weeks, backpacking through Europe as two massive blood clots took hold in her lungs, astonished her doctor after her return to the states. And if she hadn’t been in above average cardiovascular condition before her trip, training for the Chicago Marathon, she might not be here to tell her story.
It begins with an overnight flight from Charlotte to London in the spring of 2008. After staying awake for the first hour and a half of the flight, then 24-year-old Katie took an Ambien and slept hard until it was time for landing, even as she wound up in an awkward position.
As she traveled with her and her friend from high school through England, France and Germany, she never noticed anything wrong in her lower body, just the aches you would expect after backpacking several miles a day and climbing stairs to explore sites like the Louvre. But by the time the pair hit Italy, Siron’s cough started, and she felt like she was coming down with something. Then at her hotel in Assisi, she sat up in the middle of the night and couldn’t breathe. “I had this stabbing pain in my back, almost as if I had pulled a muscle or had a pinched nerve.”
She pressed on, taking Ibuprofen for the pain, but it was still so severe she couldn’t lie down and she struggled while walking. After 48 hours without sleep, she went to a hospital in Rome, where the doctor noticed her backpack, dismissed her problem as muscular and gave her a prescription for anti-inflammatory medicine and muscle relaxers.
The medicine masked the problem, allowing Siron to stick it out, visit the Vatican and, amazingly, ride to the top of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps. It would be several more weeks, before a CAT scan in Columbia revealed the bilateral pulmonary emboli as well as the tissue that had died in her lungs as a result.
“Katie,” Siron remembers her primary care doctor telling her, “You should have come home in a box.”
A Doppler scan did not show any evidence of clots in her legs. Her doctors suspect the clotting may have started in her pelvic region before migrating to her lungs, and they decided to quickly insert a filter in her inferior vena cava to stop any other possible clots from reaching the heart and lungs.
While Siron is seeing Charleston hematologist Dr. David Ellison to determine any blood disorder, it’s apparent that her blood is prone to clotting faster than most people. As a result, she no longer takes birth control pills, which were intended to counter a history of ovarian cysts, but likely elevated her risk. In fact, she took the heavily marketed Yazmin birth control, which has been linked in lawsuits to blood clots.
Now she takes an aspirin every day to thin her blood and the anticoagulant Heparin when flying for more than three hours. She wears a heart monitor when running, but she still intends to enter the Chicago Marathon someday, and it’s as important for her to stay active now as it ever was.
She also plans to become a physician’s assistant and get her master’s in public health. Along the way, she hopes to help educate people about the dangers that blood clots and a pulmonary embolism can pose.
“She considers her story a miracle, but realizes that others who are suddenly stricken by deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism aren’t always as fortunate.
“God has given me a tremendous gift – the opportunity to tell my story and help others. Take charge of your health care. Be educated. Know your risks. And never assume it won’t happen to you.”

If you are not satisfied by the article above then keep on reading to learn more about the amazing Katherine!

1) What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it?
Such a tough question. I grew up playing multiple sports (volleyball, basketball, softball, tennis, golf, etc) I never concentrated on one thing. Since high school, I've had to readjust to staying athletic and finding alternatives to a once "team sport" junkie. Running and triathlons have been my love since 2002! Triathlons are a great way to stay fit, injury free, and allow an athlete to find one of the three disciplines a strength. Mine is the bike. I've never been a fast runner, but I'm a decent swimmer and can crank 20+ mph on the bike. Running is on the list because I love a challenge. I lost lung function after my PE's and it's almost a game for me to find out how to better use my remaining lung capacity. Yoga, swimming, & running are the best. Or so I'm told by my doctors. :)

2) How did you get started in that sport?
I saw my first triathlon in 2000 in Kinston, Ontario and watched a woman complete in the race with one arm and no hair. She apparently had suffered or was suffering from breast cancer and they had removed her entire right arm. I had never heard of a triathlon until that day and I remember thinking "If she can do it, anyone can." I came home inspired, bought a bike, and started training in all three disciplines. My first race was two years later, the summer before starting college.

3) What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve? (Long bike ride, some race coming up or that you did)
I just completed the San Diego Rock 'n Roll Half Marathon and I'm registered for the Chicago Half Marathon in September and the full Chicago Marathon in October. I'm also doing the Charleston Triathlon Series this summer.

4) Tells about your clotting episode. Are you on blood thinners now? How long were you out of commission?
My story is a pretty unique one. I was 24 years old when I left for Europe on a backpacking trip with a close friend of mine. I wanted to avoid "jet lag" and was given a sample of Ambien to take on the way over, considering I've always had trouble sleeping on planes. He also gave me several prescriptions, per my request that would cure just about anything I could possible encounter (several antibiotics, anti nausea/vomiting, etc) You get the drift. Ironically, I had everything except for the one thing I'd need on my adventure. I took my Ambien, curled up to the window seat on my giant Airbus plane, and slept from Charlotte, NC to London's Gatwick airport. I arrived refreshed and ready to hit the town. That first day, we walked at least 1o miles touring London. We were full of adrenaline and life seemed perfect. About ten days later, in Venice, Italy, I felt as if I was coming down with a cold. My body ached all over (especially my back), but seemed manageable with a little ibuprofen. The next day we were off to Assisi, a short overnight before hitting Rome. Upon arriving in Assisi, we went to Mass at the St. Francis Basilica and then crashed at our hotel. That was the night everything turned for the worse. I woke up gasping for air and had pains shooting down my back. I had trouble finding an English speaking doctor, so I headed to Rome and found the Rome/American hospital where they dismissed me as having back pain due to muscular strain and sent me on my way with a prescription for a pain medication and muscle relaxer. When I arrived at the pharmacy, barely able to walk, I was given two boxes of vials and a box of syringes. My medications were inter-muscular injections that I would have to give myself. I was in so much pain at that point that I didn't even care. I hadn't slept in three days and there wasn't a big enough shot in the world to keep me from feeling better. I started feeling relief after the first round of injections and continued my "four times a day" routine until I got home. During that time I went to the top of the Alps, saw the Vatican, and continued my trip throughout Europe, only by cab instead of by foot. When I got home, I made an appointment with a local orthopedist to rule out my back being severely injured. He did some tests and several x-rays and told me that my chest xray looked "a little funny", like I had contracted a viral pneumonia while on my trip. That made perfect sense to me and I figured that's where my pleuritic pain was coming from. He dismissed me and told me to follow up with my primary care physician. While leaving the office, I called my internist, told him the story, and he worked me in. After taking my history, he told me that I was going to need to go downstairs to their imaging center and have a CT scan. I went downstairs, drank some berry flavored barium, IV in my arm, wondering why he was doing this test. I remember asking the tech why they were looking for and she said "He's ruling out blood clots in your lungs." I thought that was the most ridiculous thing I'd ever heard! "Who get's those!" I thought. Once we finished the test, the tech sent me directly back upstairs and told me my results would be ready shortly. When I walked in the office my doctor and his nurse were waiting there with a wheelchair and told me to get in. Apparently the radiologist was shocked that I was even walking an immediately called upstairs before I could even get out of the elevator. I had blood clots in both lungs and a pulmonary infarction (dead lung tissue from the clots). My clots were HUGE and my doctors only comment was that I "should have come home in a box." I was rushed to the hospital where they started a heparin drip and put me on immediate bed rest. After 24 hours, an interventional radiologist put in an IVC filter to prevent any further clots from making it up to my heart, lungs, or brain. I still have my filter today and I like to refer to it as my "safety net." I'm now considered high risk pregnancy, can no longer take birth control pills, and must use Lovenox shots while traveling, immobile, or pre/post surgery. My doctors feel comfortable keeping me off Coumadin since I have a filter in place, but if I encounter another clotting episode, I've "bought it for life" as they like to say. When you have medical professionals coming to your hospital room asking to see "the miracle child" and realize you survived something incredible is the most humbling feeling imaginable. So many do not survive and don't get to tell their story. I have been given a second chance and plan on using it to live everyday to the fullest, run like I've never run before, and spread the work about this silent killer than affects so many people. Blood clots may not be in the mainstream media, but they are mainstream in the population.
Take charge of your health care. Be educated. Know your risks. And never assume it won’t happen to you.

5) When were you able to get back into your activity? How did it feel that first time?
It took me a while before I was allowed to be active again. I felt like a caged animal and wanted nothing more than to go outside and run 'til I couldn't run anymore. It's one thing to not run and a completely other story to be told that you CAN'T run! I had been training for the Chicago Marathon before my trip and went from running the race to watching the race. That was torture! My first run was two months after Chicago and I was in tears when I laced up my shoes for the first time. My cardiovascular fitness was gone, I was starting from scratch, but I was outside and able to run! What an incredible feeling. A second chance!

A second chance indeed...

But don't fear this post is not over yet. Second part of this post to follow I just want for you to enjoy this post and look forward to the second part..

GET INSPIRED TO GET BACK AND STOP THE CLOT!!!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

First Triathlon of 2010 coming up...

2010-06-08T18:22:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe but at last the first triathlon of 2010 is finally here...

I will be racing in the Wendy's Triathlon this coming Sunday...

I hope that I remember how I should be doing this. Am I in shape? I think that I am but I guess that we will find out. You never know during the frist race you have to shake off the rust.

I am very looking forward to racing you don't have any idea. Hopefully the first of many races that will end up with racing a Half-Iron distance race in September up North in Sandusky...

As you may remember back in June of 2009 I had the opportunity to feature a good friend of mine as the Athlete of the Month - JIM FENTON. This year Jim was able to arrange his racing schedule to participate in the NATIONAL BLOOD CLOT ALLIANCE Athlete Fundraising Program... Please checkout his page here >>> www.firstgiving.com/jimfenton

Although, it is been a while since I posted anything and I will keep trying to post updates through Twitter... these days 140 characters is all I can afford these days.

Ian just turned 2 and he got not one but two bikes he needs help learning how to ride so stories of his trials I am sure will be abundant. For instace today we had a little battle trying to agree on the use of the helmet. Ian has only had his tricycle less than three days and already he is going down our driveway enjoying the speed. So, a helmet on that head is a MUST. Pictures to follow once available...

So, on we go with the training and fitting it in whenever possible...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

May Athlete of the Month

2010-05-15T18:51:00.000-07:00

On my previous post you learned about the bike race I participated in during the middle part of April.

You also learned that, as always, the NATIONAL BLOOD CLOT ALLIANCE polka-dots came out to the event and as expected they drew some attention towards me. This attention generated some conversations and in the process of of talking to several different folks I met Mr. Steven Greene.

Although we were there to race bikes and talk about our "war" stories from past Little 5 races my conversation with Mr. Greene headed a different way once he learned the real meaning of the polka-dots and the reason behind wearing them. I am amazed about how easily a connection can be made by simply talking about the silly polka-dots I wear at the races... but enough about the power of the polka-dots and let's learn more about my new friend Mr. Steven Greene...

picture below first from the right.1) What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it?

I do enjoy many sports: basketball, running, tennis, racquetball, weight lifting, downhill skiing, but cycling is my activity of choice. Since I was in school, cycling has been a way to cross train while participating in the main stream sport programs, football, wrestling, baseball. It gives a great cardiovascular workout and you get to see the countryside at the same time. When I hit DePauw the Little 5 caused the interest to explode into USCF races, etc.

2) How did you get started in that sport?

It started when I was in Jr. High and Mr. Thompson (our counselor) had the idea of a Little 5 race between the Jr. Highs in Elkhart, IN. Mr. Thompson attended Ball State which also has a Little 5, and was on a team that changed the race strategy forever. They were one of the first teams to have the riders train to be able to ride 5-6 laps at a time instead of changing riders every lap. Our race was on a cinder track (Very Messy if You Crash!) and we shared the bike. We trained both on the road and on the track. I bought my first 10 speed at that time, a Schwinn Varsity. (I road that bike into the ground by the time I was out of High School.) We also had to master the art of the bike transfer which was an adventure each and every time. It is kind of like being in the pits in a NASCAR race. I was able to participate in the race for two years. It was 3 years before I would get back into serious bike racing when I got to DePauw, but in the mean time I was still riding out on the road.

3) What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve? (Long bike ride, some race coming up or that you did)

My milestones are to keep riding in the MATTS Time Trial Series in the Chicago area, and doing some longer rides occasionally. We have done the 75 mile Swedish Days loop, and I would like to repeat this year. There is a 100 miles in 5 hrs. or less 5 man TT for Parkinson’s Disease that Kent Billingsley is trying to talk us into which would push me to the limit I’m sure. It is in early September which gives me some time to try and train. I also try and make the Illinois Special Olympics Pumpkin Peddle Charity ride every year which is about 28 miles long to help out Area 2 which my son is a part of. And of course getting through another Little 5 at DPU is always a goal for us.

4) Tells about your clotting episode. Are you on blood thinners now? How long were you out of commission?

Oddly enough my injury occurred while I was enjoying one of my other favorite sports, downhill skiing. We were at the Illinois Special Olympics Winter Games in early February 1995 or so, and we had some down time between my son’s events (Downhill, and Giant Slalom). It was a bit warm and the snow had a layer of water forming on the surface. Now I have been to Colorado a number of times, so skiing in the Midwest again has always been a let down. In order to try and make up for that I was pushing my speed to try and get the same feeling as out West. Big mistake! As I shot over a ridge at about 35 mph. or so I realized that I was running out of ski slope quickly. We were at Chestnut Mountain and the runs end at the Mississippi river edge in Galena, IL. I tried to stand on my edges, but had to pull off a cut back to keep it on the slopes. As I made the turn I caught my right ski tip and instantly was flipped head over heals. The force of the crash pushed my boot top into my right calf. The new boot styles are taller and help distribute the blow without breaking your ankle which is a good thing according to my physician. I was laying there thinking, “I wonder if it is broken?” Of course the Ski Patrol had seen everything (they are everywhere) and a gentleman skied up and asked if I was alright. At that point I was pulling myself up and hoping my leg didn’t fold under the weight of my body. As a guy you never admit you are hurt or that you didn’t mean to do that, so I told him “Oh that’s OK I’m fine.” Meanwhile I’m thinking, “Damn my leg hurts!” My leg seemed to be otherwise functioning normally, so I put my skis back on and skied down to the chair lift. Wouldn’t you know it that right as I was about to board the lift it shut down. I stood there for about 5 minutes as they got it back up and running. I really didn’t need that much time standing, and by the time I was finally on the lift my leg REALLY hurt. I did admit to my wife that I had a small fall, and that my leg hurt a bit. I indicated that I may not ski in the afternoon. I decided during lunch that I better put some ice on the calf since it was starting to swell up. I managed to get through the night with a lot of ibuprofen and more ice. I hobbled around the final day of the Winter Games, and when we got home I went to the ER to have it checked. There were no broken bones, but the physician said she didn’t like the look of the calf and scheduled an ultrasound for the next day. Upon examination they determined that I had the clot. CIGNA has a slightly different treatment regiment whereby they have you stay at home and they send in a nurse to check your clotting factor. I had to give myself 6 injections of Lovenox per day until the Cumaden oral blood thinner took effect. Due to some diet mistakes (spinach and salads) it took me 11 days to get the clotting factor where they wanted it, so I had a lot of holes in various places around my body. Being on blood thinners while having a major bruise was very difficult, and it took quite a while for it to heal to where I could begin to get active again. I was on Cumaden for 4 months, and only after I stopped taking it did I begin to try and work out. It was a year or so before I felt like I was completely healed. I am not on blood thinners at this point which I am very thankful for.

5) When were you able to get back into your activity? How did it feel that first time?

It was about 9 months after the fall that I got back onto the bike. It was difficult getting my wind back when I did start riding. The leg was a bit sore and the muscle is still deformed to this day compared to the other calf.

6) What is your favorite piece of gear for your favorite activity? (Bike brand, running shoes, perhaps a running singlet or the Clot Buster's Running Polka-Dot Technical Shirt...)

My favorite bike is either of the new ones I have. My Trek Madone road bike, or my Scatante TT bike ride about the same. I ride with Sidi shoes, and a Bell helmet. I would gladly don the Clot Buster’s uniform if offered.

7) How much are you getting out doing your sport? (Everyday you do some training, 2, 3, 4 times per week)

I usually try and ride every other day at least, and lift weights/ run on the off days.

8) What is your favorite food? Either generally or after a workout. For me there is nothing better than a Chipotle Burrito...

My favorite food after riding is usually some yogurt and a sandwich. My weakness is also Mexican food (spicy veg. fajitas) and some hard cider to wash it down.

9) If you could go some place to visit and explore, where would like to go?

If I didn’t think it would kill me I would like to ride some of the tour de france routes, or maybe a ride across Colorado. Hawaii would be fun if you could get a decent bike to ride while you were there.

Blood clots are devastating to you and your schedule. It takes over your whole being. You feel completely compromised as soon as you begin taking the blood thinners. You have to watch what you do, and where you go. As my doctor said to me, “No major projects, God help you if you fall off the roof or cut yourself with a chain saw.” Even with all this going on it is important to never give up, and work as hard as you can on your physical therapy. Don’t allow yourself to say that I can’t be the same as I was before the clot. If you do the Clot wins. It is your enemy, fight it with every cell of your body. Find a good doctor and listen to their advice. They can be there to listen to your concerns and frustrations as you fight your way back to what you love to do. Start slow but give yourself goals and challenges to achive and before long you will be back to your old life and loves.

Mr. Greene - THANK YOU very much for sharing your story. I am very lucky to have had the chance to cross paths with you and meet you at the Alumni Little 5. You are truly an inspiration to everyone out there reading this blog and wonder if it is possible to get back to what they love doing.

Once I get around to get the new Clot Buster's kits with the new NATIONAL BLOOD CLOT ALLIANCE logo I will be sure to have one sent your way so that you can also spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders across the events that you do.

It was a PLEASURE to meet Mr. Greene at this year's race and I will be sure to make it a point to get out there again next year and by then maybe have the two of us racing with some polka-dots kits... I have a full year to work on this so I definitely will make it happen.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Picture Update of my last two events...

2010-05-10T18:13:00.000-07:00

This time around the pictures took a little longer than the updates themselves... just could not get around to get the pictures up until now.

The first set of pictures belong to the bike race I went to during the weekend of my birthday at DePauw University which is one of my two Alma Maters. We were celebrating the Alumni version of a very popular bike race that takes place every year on campus called the "Little 5". Back in the day (the better part than 10 years ago) the race was much different than what is now... you can find more about the race and it's evolution HERE.

One thing remains and that is that race takes place on the track which brings a whole new dynamic to the event... at any rate, it was sweet to get back and see the campus and experience racing on the track again. The polka-dots came out to spread the word about the National Blood Clot Alliance...they were not very fast to contend for the win, as I got lapped a few times, but I was not last just not in shape yet...The next set of photos belong to the VERY SOGGY Flying Pig Half-Marathon I ran two weekends ago... outside of the rain the only other highlight of the day was the debut of my very own "running shorts" which I have to say I enjoyed while racing but I need to wear more often to even up the tan on my legs...Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

Survived... but I am still drying off...

2010-05-03T19:00:00.000-07:00

Key word here... survived.

Although, it was only a half-marathon it was a challenge.

I am not sure what made this race so hard...

My lack of trainging as I recovered from my plantar issues?

The rain when we got out of the car?

Perhaps, the rain as we ran down to the start line?

Maybe, the rain as we waited around 14 minutes to make our way to the start line because we found our selves WAY back in the crowd?

Or the thousands of people I passed and dodged on my way through 13.1 Miles in which I was never alone?

Or lastly, the very hilly miles 5, 6, 7, and 8?

Really, I am thrilled that I was able to participate and finish this race. More than anything that my heel held up nicely and today as I am writing this there is no pain. This is GREAT news for me as I can look forward to race some triathlons later on this summer as long as I keep up with my stretching and other treatments.

So, all things considered I am delighted and looking forward to continue improving.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Returning to the Flying Pig on Sunday!

2010-05-01T05:43:00.001-07:00

It is been two years since I toed the line at the Flying Pig Marathon and completed it... First Marathon EVER and still my best time.

This Sunday I am returning to the race but only doing the Half-Marathon as I am making way back from the heel issues I was facing at the start of the year.

I don't have a clue as to how my body will hold up as I signed up for the race without much training under my belt... now, this can be a good thing or a bad thing... I will let you know on Monday.Regardless, I am very excited to get the NATIONAL BLOOD CLOT ALLIANCE polka-dots out there again... If you see the polka-dots give a me a shout! When I did the marathon here, about Mile 19 I passed this little kid, could not be more than 4 years old, who turned and said to his mom..."Mom, there goes LADY BUG MAN"... so say what ever you want to me!

First race of 2010... ready or not here I come!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

P.S. The weather forecast for Sunday in Cincinnati does look very promising... it may end up being a very wet race... Don't worry the polka-dots are water-proof.

April Athlete of the Month

2010-04-20T19:06:00.000-07:00

This month's athlete of the month was a difficult selection for me as I had a number of candidate at my disposal that I would have liked to honor with this feature.

But after pondering this for a while it was evident that I should only focus on one person in this post based on the fact that she has come a long way in so many ways that it is simply time...

Can you guess who is "APRIL's Athlete of the Month"...?

Well, it is something very dear and close to my heart... someone who has been involved with NATT since the very beginning and today continues to be very much a part of the organization holding some key positions that are guiding NATT - well now the NATIONAL BLOOD CLOT ALLIANCE - into the future.

Also, goes without saying that aside from being one of the leading member of the organization she is a FINE ATHLETE and one that can be a serious inspiration for everyone.

By now you know who I am talking about... but if you still don't know let me introduce you to APRIL's Athlete of the Month = My Lovely Wife Mrs. CLOT BUSTER or as she is known by others ELIZABETH VARGA.

Her dedication to the organization along with her discipline and commitment to her workout routines is legendary. She is without a doubt a HUGE inspiration for me to keep at it and make it happen.About two weeks ago she completed in the St. Louis Marathon and now she (and all of us in this house) is a very proud Marathon Finisher. Running the marathon was a huge challenge that she was able to take head on to complete in tremendous fashion.

Although she was never suffered from a blood clotting episode we are always concerned because she is a carrier and under the right combination of circumstances she could develop a clot.

You can read more about Liz's story at the following link http://www.stoptheclot.org/patient_stories/elizabeth_varga.htm

I am very proud and honored to have the opportunity to share Mrs. Clot Buster with all of you out there. I am constantly amazed of what she can do and how far she has come. We have been together the better part of 12 years and let me tell you that I am looking forward to spend the next 50 years along side her...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Mrs. Clot Buster - CONGRATULATIONS!!!

2010-04-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

If you followed my twitter posts over the weekend you probably already know...

Mrs. CLOT BUSTER = MARATHON FINISHER

26.2 Miles >>> 3:54.16

She finished in 11th place in her age-group which had 119 participants!

We are VERY PROUD OF HER!!! and she is not even sore anymore... I cannot believe that...

CONGRATULATIONS Mrs. Clot Buster! You did an awesome job!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Marathon Preparation Week...

2010-04-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

Here we are at the door step of another marathon.

Mrs. Clot Buster is about to get introduced to the fraternity of the 26.2 Miles.

She is about to find out how amazing and painful it can be to finish those 26.2 Miles.

We ran together yesterday and her stride feels strong and confident.

I am looking forward to cheer her on on Sunday and I hope you follow along as well.

Heading to St. Louis on Saturday AM and Junior and I will do what we can to keep her off her feet.

We are VERY PROUD of her and look forwar to learn how it goes for her.

The first time is just very exciting.

As we do in the Clot Buster household the she is representing the NATIONAL BLOOD CLOT ALLIANCE and as such she is fundraising so that we can continue to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

Checkout Mrs. Clot Buster's page here >>> http://www.firstgiving.com/lizvarga

I will post updates on twitter as much as I can.

Sunday is going to be a sweet day!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

3rd Annual - DVT Awareness Month AUCTION

2010-03-23T05:21:00.000-07:00

March is the month to be aware of Blood Clots and Blood Clotting Disorders.

March is the month to learn all there is to learn about Thrombosis and Thrombophilias.

March is the month to learn all of the symptoms of potential blood clots.

March is the month to help the NATIONAL BLOOD CLOT ALLIANCE (formerly known as NATT... yes we are changing our name!) by participating in the 3rd Annual - DVT Awareness Month Auction...

Thanks to the help to the kind folks at DPM Sports, this month I am auctioning off a Spiuk KRONOS helmet.

The auction opens at $115.00 (which is much less than half of it's retail cost...) Don't miss your chance to get this nice helmet while you help a very worthy organization that is trying to educate, prevent, and create awareness about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

Please email me your bid at polka40@hotmail.com. I will post the bids as they come in. The bidding time is set to start on Wednesday March 24th and set to close on Wednesday March 31st. To make this auction more attractive the shipping of the helmet is on me!

So, send your bids and get prepared to look awesome and ride faster at your races this season!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

March Athlete of the Month

2010-03-10T12:34:00.000-08:00

As part of the celebration of March being DVT Awareness Month I am honored to have the opportunity to introduce to you a truly inspiring story of coming back from a clotting episode to take on some massive events.

I love having the opportunity to have this blog and to start the polka-dot movement which has afforded me getting in contact with some incredible people and their stories of survival. Well, meeting Mr. MARTY BUSEKRUS was not different as I believe he read about me through my blog and looking for the chance to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders. But better yet he agreed to share his story with all of us as I know you will find it as inspiring as I did.

Please follow along to learn Marty's answers to the series of questions I like to ask all of my guests...

1) What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it?

Triathlons/marathons - I enjoy them because I'm terrible at them. Running does NOT come natural to me. I've always been a decent athlete, but could never run. I stayed with two friends of mine throughout 2005 who would get up every morning and go for a run. I thought they were nuts! I was slightly overweight and lethargic so I decided to see if I could run a mile. I couldn't. I realized it was a lot harder than it looked, so I started running because it was very challenging for me. Then in 2006 I had my first child. Since my father died when he was 39 and I was 12, I knew I really needed to get in shape and stay in shape for my son. Running seemed to be a decent avenue for that and I was perplexed at how hard it was! My friends were running 5 miles at 7 minute mile paces and I was just flabbergasted that anyone could do that! My 5 mile time was about 11 minute miles on a really good day. I did a marathon, suffered through that, but learned a lot. Then in 2008, a friend of mine convinced me to do a sprint triathlon. The swimming came natural as I had swam all my life semi-competitively. Biking was pretty easy for me, but the run was still my weakest point. I did it anyway and loved every second of it.

2) How did you get started in that sport?

Another friend of mine (shown in one of the attached photos) had done a few short tri's and he talked me into doing one with him. I said "sure" and that was it really.

3) What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve? (Long bike ride, some race coming up or that you did)

I'm signed up for my first full ironman (2.4 miles swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run). 4 years ago I knew that the people that did those races were out of their minds! I feel the same way now that we're out of our minds, but I have SO much more respect for those that accomplish the full Ironman because now I know what it takes to compete and it's A LOT more than I had initially thought being an outsider. If I finish, that will be the biggest milestone of my life.

4) Tells about your clotting episode. Are you on blood thinners now? How long were you out of commission?

First blood clot was when I was 17, playing collegiate volleyball for Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. All of the doctors thought it was a pulled hamstring, so no one even thought it could be a clot. After weeks of hobbling around and it getting worse, finally one doctor suggested I get a venogram (where they shove that HUGE needle into the top of your foot and inject the dye). After passing out during the test at the sight of the needle, I woke up to the news that I had a HUGE blood clot that ran from my ankle to my groin. 10 days in the hospital on heparin, then 6 months of coumadin and I was back in business. I never really had any other issues, I wasn't on blood thinners, I didn't wear compression stockings, etc. Then, in September of 2008, nearly 13 years later while I was increasing my running mileage, I started to feel those pains again. Long story short, I had the sonogram test done (thank goodness it wasn't that needle) and ended up back in the hospital for 2 weeks this time getting rid of a 2nd clot in the same leg. Got out of the hospital and 10 days later did a sprint triathlon. Looking back, it probably wasn't the best idea as I did terrible and still had some type of respiratory thing that I must have caught in the hospital. The 2nd clot was slightly different because this time I had a LOT of superficial blood clots that get inflamed every once in a while. When I run in very cold weather, I really have to be careful s they don't get inflamed even 2 years later now. I am on 12 mg of Warfarin/Coumadin and wear my medical grade stocking every day. I also wear the athletic compression stockings when I exercise and race. They help out a TON! Not to plug any one brand, but I'm kind of partial to the Zensah sleeves. Outside of normal swelling I don't seem to have any long term side effects though.

5) When were you able to get back into your activity? How did it feel that first time?

I kind of tricked my doctor a bit I think. When I got out of the hospital in 2008, I asked if I could ease back into biking/running, etc. He said yes I could ease back into it. I asked if about an hour would be okay and he said "yes." What I didn't tell him is that it was an actual race that I'd be doing and my goal time was a little over an hour. My leg felt okay, but just had some respiratory problems from something I picked up in the hospital from laying there for 2 weeks.

6) What is your favorite piece of gear for your favorite activity? (Bike brand, running shoes, perhaps a running singlet or the Clot Buster's Running Polka-Dot Technical Shirt...)

I wear my clot buster racing shirt at most of my races and even during my training. I often get asked about it. I also wear the clot buster arms bands that have the polka dots. Very cool. My bike is excellent. I bought a used Quintana Roo Tri-bike for $700 and then have changed out almost everything on it with the exception of the frame. The one thing I couldn't live without is the ISM Adamo racing seat. Again, not to plug anything specific, but that seat with the split nose just rocks.

7) How much are you getting out doing your sport? (Everyday you do some training, 2, 3, 4 times per week)

I have a gym by my office that opens at 5 am. I am standing outside the door at 5. I do about a half an hour-45 minutes of weights followed by at least an hour and a half during the off season and up to 3 hours of cardio 5 days a week. Then on weekends I do an additional long day which is either a 3-4 hour run or a 4-5 hour bike. As long as I've got my compression gear on to help the bloodflow to my right leg, I'm fine.

8) What is your favorite food? Either generally or after a workout. For me there is nothing better than a Chipotle Burrito...

I can't seem to eat enough pizza and french fries combined with Mich Ultra. although a Chipotle Steak Fajita Burrito sounds perfect right now for breakfast! This is my downfall. I eat terrible. I have a high metabolism because I work out so much, but if I ate like most athletes do I'd lose that extra 10 pounds and look like one of those tri guys on the covers of the magazines. Just not ready to give up my pizza, fries and beer.

9) If you could go some place to visit and explore, where would like to go?

Europe. Pack my bike, spend about 2 weeks biking Europe. Sounds like a nice get-away to me. I'd probably sign up or a race there to, just to say I ran the Paris Marathon or something like that.

Everyone is different, so I shouldn't say this with 100% certainty, but blood clots don't hinder your life. They adjust it, that's all. After my first blood clot, I never really returned to competitive volleyball. I had gained a lot of weight while I couldn't play and then used the clot as an excuse not to return I think. If the blood clot stops you from doing something you love, my advice is get a different doctor that will fix the pain. Get rid of the pain and you'll be able to do what you want. I'm sure there are situations where this can't or doesn't occur, but don't let the clot be an excuse. If your activity or sport ha a risk of you getting injured and bleeding (i.e. crashing your bike) you NEED to get one of the road ID bands that tells people you're on blood thinners. Again, it shouldn't stop you from doing anything, but you do need to adjust and think before you do things.

Marty, THANK YOU for sharing your experience with us.

I wish for you THE VERY BEST on your Ironman... I can't believe that you will be doing that... I admire the distance, I follow it, and I probably know more that I care to admit but to ever race that distance I think it will not happen any time soon... so Marty you got the STOP THE CLOT polka-dots to carry for 140.6 Miles! Just think about pizza and beer that will be waiting for at the finish. Without a question I will be rooting for you and enjoying the same pizza and beer upon your finish of the race.

Who knows someday we may be able to race together and double the effort to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

I am about to get on my trainer to ride some because people like Marty make me push that much more.

Get inspired and STOP THE CLOT!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

March = DVT Awareness Month

2010-03-07T17:32:00.000-08:00

I hope that those of you stopping by to read my blog are reading my updates through the Twitter page on top of the blog... these days chasing after "Junior Cacheton" pretty much limits me to 140 characters...

But March is a very special month for the Clot Buster and everyone associated with the STOP THE CLOT movement. During this month we try to bring some extra attention to our cause because we need to spread the word as far and wide as possible.

So far this month, through my Twitter feeds I've been posting some random facts about Thrombosis and Thrombophilia that we should all know about.

I have a very inspiring "Athlete of the Month" coming soon.

I plan on having two auctions this month for some nice prizes that you will not want to miss out on. STAY TUNED!

On March 17th and 25th I will be speaking to a total of about 300 people from my company about blood clots and blood clotting disorders. Read here, that my wife (the brains in the family) is doing some serious coaching on this just so that I have all of my facts straight... very excited about this opportunity to spread the word in my company and hoping that I get the chance to speak some more.

So, as you can see there is lots of stuff going on to celebrate and spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

As always I invite you to take some time and stop by NATT's website >>> www.STOPTHECLOT.org to get details on all things related to thrombosis and thrombophilia.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

February Athlete of the Month

2010-02-12T13:37:00.000-08:00

Greetings from the Clot Buster!

I hope that you are following along my tweets as 140 characters is all I can type now days before I am off going after Junior... it is a blast but time is limited since from reading books we go to build lego things. From there on to truck pushing and finally ball chasing. So, as you can imagine I am earning my polka-dots...

But on to more serious and inspiring business.

February's Athlete of the Month features a very special person who has been associated with NATT since the very beginning. He has witness the birth and the constant growth of the organization as a vehicle to provide people the awareness they need about blood clots and blood clotting disorders. Little that I know that this gentleman back in the day used to rock the trails in the North-East on all sorts of mountain bike races until his clotting incident placed him on the sidelines. However, he is not done. As I understand he still getting out there when possible to show all of us that it is possible to continue living your life despite a clotting incident that could very well keep you down.

Please let me introduce to you Mr. TOM HOGAN and get inspired by the answers he shared with me below...

1) What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it?

My choice of outdoor activity is Mountain Biking. For me Mountain Biking was a way to get back into the outdoors after spending months deployed on board Submarines while I was in the U.S. Navy. It was also a good way to exercise and burn off some calories while yet enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. Growing up in the Mountains of New York where there was an abundance of hiking trails and trout streams, I truly lived in the outdoors. When I joined the Navy in 1982, I left the mountains for the ocean. When I started Mountain Biking in 1992, it brought me back to my roots. Over the years I've really enjoyed the camaraderie shared between the Mountain Biking community and enjoyed riding the trails in some of the Northeast's most spectacular scenery.

2) How did you get started in that sport?

Someone I knew competed in Mountain Bike races throughout New York and New England back around 1991. Mountain Biking was in its infancy in our area so the idea of riding a bike throughout the forest was intriguing; after all I loved hiking so what a better way to navigate throughout the forests then on a bike. From that moment on, I was hooked. In 1992 I organized an all-Navy Mountain Bike race team at the Naval Submarine School in Groton, Connecticut. Our team competed in races from New York to Maine in both the Eastern Fat Tire Race series and National Off-Road Bike Association series.

3) What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve?

I retired from the racing scene back in 1997 after two separate blood clots, a pulmonary embolism, and a broken collarbone. I started to ride recreationally and even helped to start a Chapter of the New England Mountain Bike Patrol in one of the State Management Areas. Around the 2006 timeframe I started having problems with constant hip pain which was thought to be the result of splitting and stacking firewood. As the years went on it became more and more persistent. In December 2008 I had hip replacement surgery. As a result of this, I haven't been riding my bike as much and have gotten out of shape. For 2010, it is my goal to get back on my bike and do some riding with my son who is now taken interest in the sport of Mountain Biking. I'm hoping to have my son and I participate in at least one of the New England Mountain Bike Associations organized rides this summer.

4) Tells about your clotting episode. Are you on blood thinners now? How long were you out of commission?

My history of clotting started back in 1992 towards the end of the bike season. I had just transferred from a Submarine to shore duty and started training for the next race season. I started having severe calf pain in my leg which the doctors attributed to a torn muscle as a result of biking. After several days the leg had swollen immensely and the doctors no longer viewed it as a sports related injury. A venogram was ordered which revealed a clot had extending from my hip to my ankle; I was immediately hospitalized. While undergoing treatment, the doctor became increasingly concerned with my resting heart rate. A lung scan was performed which revealed I had additionally suffered a Pulmonary Embolism. I was told at that time: (1) I was lucky to be alive; (2) I would never regain full use of my leg due to the anticipate damage. The cause of the clotting episode was not determined so I was on Coumadin therapy for six months. Right at the end of that treatment period, the bike race season began. I finished ninth in my class in the New England Mountain Bike race series that year and competed in the National Off-Road Association (NORBA) National Championships up at Mount Snow, Vermont. The following year I also enjoyed a successful race seasons which continued until August 1995. I had competed in day one of a two day race up at Sugarloaf, Maine. On Saturday I raced the downhill race where I finished in fourth place. When I awoke Sunday morning I had a pain and burning sensation in my leg which was all to familiar. I pre-rode the course and it felt a little better so I decided to race in the 30 mile Cross-Country race that day. Mid-way through the race I had to drop out due to the severe pain. I suffered a second blood clot; this time to my opposite leg. Just like the first time, the cause of the clot was undetermined. After being sent to the Navy's top hospital in Bethesda, Maryland they still could not find a reason as to why I kept developing these blood clots. Finally in 1996 I was referred to Harvard Medical where a doctor discovered I had Factor V Leiden (homozygous). This time I was on Coumadin for about two years before I was taken off it. In 2001, I was asked to participate in a low-intensity warfarin trial (PREVENT) taking place which looked into a low target INR range for patients who were high risk. Since that time, I have remained on low-intensity Coumadin therapy and will remain on it for life.

5) When were you able to get back into your activity? How did it feel that first time?

After my first blood clot I really was not sure what to expect. Being that the doctor told me I probably would not regain full use of my leg I didn't have high expectations. But as I trained I found that the disability from my Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS) was not as bad as I anticipated. Yes, my leg felt as though I had five-pound weights on it, but it didn't hurt. In 1995, following my second clot, I found that my other leg also developed PTS. In 1996 I raced my last Mountain Bike race up at Sugarloaf, Maine. Though I no longer race today, I really look forward to participating in several organized rides this year; though I will need to get back into shape.

6) What is your favorite piece of gear for your favorite activity? (Bike brand, running shoes, perhaps a running singlet or the Clot Buster's Running Polka-Dot Technical Shirt...)

I would say my favorite piece of gear has to be my Performance Gel Shorts. Laugh as you may but more so then anything else on the bike if you not comfortable sitting it makes for a bad ride. And of course I have to give due credit to John Willis of Ray Willis Bikes in Westerly Rhode Island. This bike shop sponsored our Navy race team from 1992 through 1996.

7) How much are you getting out doing your sport? (Everyday you do some training, 2, 3, 4 times per week)

My goal is to ride at least three times a week; maybe more as the summer approaches and the daylight provides opportunity for after work rides.

8) What is your favorite food? Either generally or after a workout. For me there is nothing better than a Chipotle Burrito...

Pizza; yeah its not good for you but it tastes so good.

9) If you could go some place to visit and explore, where would like to go?

I've always wanted to bike the Moab Trail in Utah. Maybe when my son gets older we'll try it. Another ride I would really like to participate in is the Continental Divide Trail which extends from Montana to New Mexico.

My first advice would be to see a blood clot specialist; even if it only for a single visit. My biggest word of encouragement is "there is life after a DVT/PE". When recovering, takes things easy, listen to your body and your doctor. In time things will get better.

Tom THANK YOU very much for your willingness to share your story and thoughts with us.

It is a pleasure to know you will be out in the trails this year and for many more years to come! When I get around to visit out East I will be sure to ask you to take me around your favorite routes. I just hope that I don't eat it bad out on the trails. I am pathetic when it comes to mountain biking...

I just realized that both January and February Athletes of the Month have the same last name... I don't believe there is a relation here just a coincidence. What are the chances of this happening?

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

2010 is here... Now What?

2010-01-06T18:26:00.000-08:00

I know that I will not be running any marathons this year...

I know that Mrs. Clot Buster will be running HER VERY FIRST ONE in April at the St. Louis Marathon... the site of my very first Half-Marathon race. Coming full circle I guess. Watch as she may just qualify for Boston on her first try at the distance...

I know that Junior will continue growing up, smiling, babbling, and running circles around us...

But I don't know what races should I do this year... Any suggestions?!?!?

Definitely looking to do triathlons whenever possible but I think that I am going to stay within the short distances as I don't have much time anymore to traing for long distances. I mean chasing after Junior is a great deal of fun for me and plenty of effort that I need to train for...

For sure whatever we do the polka-dots will be out there spreading the word about the STOP THE CLOT movement...

So here we go wishing everyone out there a great 2010 and if you see the polka-dots out there let me know!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

P.S. = It is been a while since I've been able to post anything as January has been full of family visits and other business that has been keeping me busy... hopefully back at it and stay tuned for February's Athlete of the month.

Janurary Athlete of the Month

2010-01-03T12:17:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Here is wishing all of you who come around reading this blog the VERY BEST in 2010. Let this new year give all of the chance to continue spreading the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders so that we can STOP THE CLOT!!!

I don't think that there is a better way to start the year with some true inspiration that will get us all going. This month's Athlete of the Month definitely provides that inspiration as she is very determined to continue chasing her dreams despite surviving a clotting incident just this past year.

Please let me introduce you to KELLY HOGAN - running machine from New York City, NY.

Be prepared to get off that couch and start running as you read Kelly's responses to my questions below... ENJOY!!!

1) What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it?

RUNNING! Not only is running is a great time for thinking and reflecting, but it allows me to push myself to my physical limits. In running, you are often competing only with yourself and can always strive to be better, faster, and to go longer. I run alone most of the time, but I also love racing and being around so many other runners and realizing the impact the sport has on so many people. There is also nothing like the runner's high!

2) How did you get started in that sport?

I was a competitive gymnast for 10 years, and once I entered college I needed something to fill the void that not being able to do gymnastics left - physically and mentally. I went to undergrad in Boston, and there's no better place to start running! Once I started I was hooked.

3) What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve? (Long bike ride, some race coming up or that you did)

I want 2010 to be a great running year for me. I'm planning on racing the NYC Half Marathon, which is being held in March this year for the first time (it has been held in August the past few years). I'll also be racing various distances throughout the year - NYC is a great running city and New York Road Runners has races at last a few times a month. More long term, I'm running the NYC Marathon in November - this has been a goal of mine for a long time. I have guaranteed entry in 2010 because I was unable to run in 2009 due to my clot(s).

4) Tells about your clotting episode. Are you on blood thinners now? How long were you out of commission?

My episode happened in September 2009 - I had returned from a great vacation in London/Dublin and felt some pain in my calf. I thought it was running related and tried to "tough it out" as we runnners are known to do, but it kept getting worse. I had also felt some shortness of breath when trying to run and work out but thought it was just some sort of cold. I went to the doctor for my leg after the pain kept getting worse - in the back of my mind I wondered about a possible clot but thought it would turn out to be some sort of muscle tear. I was shocked to hear I had two DVTs - I was put on Lovenox and Coumadin and sent home. At this time I was breathing normally but not working out; however, I kept feeling like there was something in my lung, almost like I needed to cough. I was very anxious and a week after my diagnosis I went to the ER, where a large pulmonary embolism was confirmed in my left lung. It was, to say the least, the scariest moment of my life. I was hospitalized for three days and given a Heparin drip through IV. So far, my doctors have found no genetic abnormalities through blood testing and attribute my clots to a combination of birth contol pills, the long flights and being dehydrated. Now, three months later I am only on Coumadin for at least another three months. I'm making great progress and have never been more thankful for every day.

5) When were you able to get back into your activity? How did it feel that first time?

My third and last day in the hospital I asked my doctor when I could get back to running (did I mention I am a little crazy??), and he gave me the go ahead to get started slowly. I couldn't wait to get back into it - I think the total amount of time I took off was about three or four weeks. The first time I went on a real run I could not stop smiling - other runners probably thought I was crazy! I also couldn't stop thinking that the sound of my shoes hitting the gravel on the Central Park bridle path was the best sound I had ever heard.

6) What is your favorite piece of gear for your favorite activity? (Bike brand, running shoes, perhaps a running singlet or the Clot Buster's Running Polka-Dot Technical Shirt...)

I love my Asics Kayanos, and I would love a Clot Buster's Polka-Dot Running Shirt!

7) How much are you getting out doing your sport? (Everyday you do some training, 2, 3, 4 times per week)

Right now I'm running about 4-5 days per week on average and cross training on the other days. I don't like taking days off!

8) What is your favorite food? Either generally or after a workout. For me there is nothing better than a Chipotle Burrito...

I love food - I'm studying for my Master's in nutrition at NYU right now. I've always loved cereal (high fiber), berries, any kind of vegetable and fish. After a run I love a good peanut butter and jelly sandwich on toasted whole wheat bread!

9) If you could go some place to visit and explore, where would like to go?

Oh my gosh, everywhere! I would love to go to Greece and explore the islands, Italy, Australia, New Zealand. I've also never been to Paris - but most of the exploring I would like to do there is at the flagship Chanel store (kidding!) :)

The most important advice I can give to anyone going through an episode similar to mine is to stay positive - it's easy to fall into a depression and wonder "why me?" By staying positive, I was really able to see the sun through the clouds and put everything into perspective. Everything happens for a reason, and how you deal life's challenges really defines you as a person. I think people should talk with their doctor's about when and how to return to what they enjoy - everyone is different so it's important to weigh the benefits and risks. Now that I'm back running, I get my INR tested every few weeks to make sure I'm within the recommended range (between 2-3), and make sure to eat a consistent amount of Vitamin K foods each day - this is important for people on Coumadin. Because I am at an increased risk for bleeding, I'm just a little more careful going about my day, and I make sure I know the signs and symptoms of bleeding just in case anything should happen.

New York City better be in the look out as Kelly is coming and she is determined to make 2010 a terrific year for her running. Along the way I know that she will be spreading the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders to all who need to listen.

So, are you determined to achieve a goal in 2010? Whatever that goal is the Clot Buster wishes you the best of fortunes to make it a reality! The Clot Buster will be out there again doing his thing again this year taking the STOP THE CLOT polka-dots to whatever race he is doing. Be in the lookout you just never know when you will see the polka-dots.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Here is wishing all of you...

2009-12-23T18:35:00.000-08:00

... A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY SEASON!!!

May 2010 bring us the opportunity to continue spreading the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders to all who need to know.

I very much look forward to the opportunity to see more people out there wearing the STOP THE CLOT polka-dots in many more events out there as the NATTHlete program continues to expand.Thanks for reading and following along in 2009 and come along in 2010 for some more fun in the adventures of the Clot Buster.

All the Best,

The Clot Buster

Clot Busters in Action over Thanksgiving

2009-12-18T18:23:00.000-08:00

Well, you know from a previous blog that I took the Clot Buster polka-dots out for a run on ThanksgivingDay for an all time best performance on my 11th year during the race.

But what I am sure you did not know is that other Clot Busters also were busy over Thankgiving and they too took the polka-dots out for a run...

Well, let me show you on the following pictures Clot Buster - Jim Fenton rocking the polka-dots at the Greensboro Gobbler 5K... THANK YOU JIM for spreading the word about STOP THE CLOT!!!

If you or someone you know rocked the polka-dots at a Thanksgiving Run or anyother run for that matter please let me know so that I can bother you for a picture and get you on this blog for all to see in action.

This year I am done with any racing but looking to what I can do in 2010. If you have any suggestions for me please send them my way. One thing is for sure, no marathon in 2010 as I need a break from all the pounding...but I will definitely consider a half marathon or two... but of course triathlons are definitely in my future. So, send on your suggestions to see what races I will venture doing!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

December Athlete of the Month

2009-12-11T09:48:00.000-08:00

Finally with most of my christmas shopping done and with ample time at home since the Subaru is at the shop getting repaired I can finally sit down and prepare the post for December's Athlete of the Month.

This month's athlete is someone that is very busy during this time of the year pushing people around and helping his team reach the playoffs and make a run deep into post season. I am amazed that this gentleman got through a clotting episode not too long ago and he still continues to perform the duties of his job remarkably. Please let me introduce to you Mr. BRIAN ROBINSON - Defensive End for the Minnesota Vikings.

I wish that I would have the opportunity to meet Mr. Robinson in person to see if I could get him to wear the Clot Buster polka-dots and see if I had any chance against him in arm wrestling...

Please read on below to learn more about Mr. Robinson's story as it was featured on NATT's most recent holiday email...

"Those of you who are NFL fans likely know that Brian Robison is a defensive end for the Minnesota Vikings. In the best shape of his life, 25-year-old Brian was shocked, when, after a big game, his leg "swelled up," a common sign of DVT. Fortunately, the Vikings' team doctor recognized that Brian's symptoms suggested a blood clot, and ran tests that detected two clots in his leg. Brian and his wife Jayme were understandably stunned when they realized the severity of his DVTs, which required immediate surgery. Had Brian not sought medical attention, his clots could have travelled to his lungs which are fatal in one out of three individuals.

Brian was wise to get his leg checked out and fortunate that his doctor recognized the signs of his potentially life-threatening blood clot. He continues to play professional football today and looks back on his blood clots as an "eye-opener," not only for himself and Jayme, but for the community as a whole. As Brian puts it, "I want to help raise awareness and tell people that they need to pay attention to their bodies whenever they sense that something isn't quite right. Don't wait and expect symptoms to get better - get in and get things checked out." "

Mr. Robinson is very lucky to have had the quick response from his team doctors that potentially saved his life. This is just another example that blood clots can affect anyone at any time regardless of what do. It thrilling to know that we know someone in the NFL who has had a clotting incident and is back in action showing all of us how it is possible to do it.

I came across the following video about Mr. Robinson please check it out...

http://video.aol.co.uk/video-detail/brian-robinson-speaks-about-blood-clots/989945451

A blood clot is not going to hold Mr. Robinson down nor are 300+ Lbs lineman that are trying to protect their QB from him! Mr. Robinson - THANK YOU FOR THE INSPIRATION!!! Best of luck to you and your team! I am a fan of the Colts, I have been ever since I came to States but now that I know about Mr. Robinson I am also rooting for the man in purple.

Here is wishing all of you out there ALL THE VERY BEST IN THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!!!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Thanksgiving Day Race - 11th Year Running - PERSONAL BEST!!!

2009-11-28T06:31:00.001-08:00

10K >>> 41:53 >>> 6:45 Pace >>> FASTEST EVER!!!

I still can't believe it!

The dissapointment from the marathon earlier this month is finally fading away. I feel somewhat validated that I can still go at it faster than before.

Looking back at 11 years running this race I can't believe how fast I've come in running. When I think back that I only started running so that I could score a date with Mrs. Clot Buster... yep, as a former soccer player running just for the sake of running was only a vehicle to spend some additional time with Mrs. Clot Buster. I guess that I can thank her for giving me the chance to explore new challenges... from 5Ks, 10Ks, Half-Marathons to full out Marathons. I can't see myself stopping any time soon as I need to do what I can to try to keep up with her.

So, I improved in the 10K arena over Thanksgiving, I got a new personal best in the Half-Marathon distance back in April so all things considered I am very satisfied with my improvements. I guess that I am getting better with age. Maybe when I am 35 or 40 I may qualify for Boston...

At any rate, for now I just have to follow Junior around as he is running around grandma's house.

Thanks for Reading,

The Clot Buster

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2009-11-26T13:08:00.000-08:00

Where has the time gone...

2009-11-24T18:34:00.001-08:00

I've been wanting to post here for a long time now but life just seems to get in the way... I mean when having choice about playing with Junior and blogging 100 times out of 100 I will choose to play with my son. It does not matter what we do I can't believe the transformation he has gone through in no more than a few months... I LOVE IT!!!

Keep following my tweets as you can because I can update those a lot easier these days...

Checkout some of the pictures I was able to find from the Indianapolis Marathon I did a few weeks ago... slowly my ego is healing from my personal dissapointement with the time I completed. Eventually, I will crawl out of it but for now I don't want to have much to do with marathoning...

These pictures are pretty funny as you see the progression of my suffering throughout the race... as my face changes you can see how my pace also changed to get slower...

Well, it is all in the past now... I will remember the 3:36 for a long time until my next time facing the 26.2 Miles...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

November Athlete of the Month

2009-11-12T19:16:00.000-08:00

Are you ready to be inspired?

Are you ready to read about someone who has truly overcome some HUGE odds?

Do you think you can keep up with this lady?

Well, please let me introduce you to HOPE GALLEY one of the most amazing individuals I have ever met while associate with the STOP THE CLOT movement.

I had the pleasure to meet Hope virtually and got to ask her my usual questions so that all of us can get inspired and get out to continue doing what we do and spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

1) What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it?

My outdoor sport is Handcycling. The reason why I chose handcycling is because prior to my cancer and blood clot, I was a marathon runner. I missed competing and I missed crossing the finish line and I knew I needed to find a way to get back in the action. I met some soldiers through my volunteer work at Walter Reed Medical Center and they introduced me to the sport.

2) How did you get started in that sport?

The soldiers at Walter Reed and Geoff Hopkins, who works with Disabled Veterans introduced me to the sport.

3) What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve?

I finished first in the women’s handcycle division for the Army 10 Miler in October 2008. I also completed the NYC Marathon in November of 2008. I’m planning on participating in the Army 10 miler again this fall and would like to do another marathon in the spring.

4) Tells about your clotting episode. Are you on blood thinners now? How long were you out of commission?

I’m not on blood thinners now. However, the cancer I had was wrapped around my femoral vein. When the cancer was removed, the Dr’s made a decision to “tie” off my femoral vein because there was so much damage to the vein.

5) When were you able to get back into your activity? How did it feel that first time?

My cancer started with a blood clot which was diagnosed in June of 2006. I was out of exercise till June of 2008 when I did my first handcycle race in NYC, The Hope and Possibilities race through Central Park. The feeling of finishing that race and knowing I was still an athlete still brings tears to my eyes. The race was only 5 miles, but I didn’t care…I finished and I was BACK!

6) What is your favorite piece of gear for your favorite activity?

My favorite thing to wear when I’m doing my races is a race jersey which says ATHLETE on it. We often forget ATHLETES come in all shapes and sizes. My illness and disability has allowed me to meet some amazing people! The strength and courage of the disabled athletes truly inspire me!

7) How much are you getting out doing your sport?

I work out 4-5 times a week. I ride the stationary bike at the gym and I lift weights (primary upper body) 2-3 times a week. During the spring/summer/fall, I try and get out on my bike at least 2 times a week. However, that isn’t always possible. I travel a lot for work, and unlike running which you can do any where, it is difficult to find a hand cycle!

8) What is your favorite food? Either generally or after a workout.

My guilty pleasure is red wine and chocolate! After a long ride or hard work out, I always seem to find the wine and the chocolate.

9) If you could go some place to visit and explore, where would like to go?

I’m disappointed that my disability will not allow me to climb one of the great mountains. However, I know there are other things which I can do. I would like to go on a Safari, or hike part of the Grand Canyon, or maybe even jump out of a plane! I’m game for anything, but I do know my body now has limits.

I would first say, don’t wait to have yourself checked out. Blood clots are serious and they can be fatal. I would also say ask questions of your medical team. You know your body the best, so don’t be afraid to ask questions or discuss your fears. Finally, remember our bodies are amazing structures. Mine has taken me through 2 bouts with Cancer, a disability, a blood clot, and numerous other challenges….However, it has kept on going! Remember to love yourself. Take care of yourself, be your true to who you are …and don’t be afraid. With good medical care and self care, you will come out on top!

Hope, I am having chocolate and red wine right now as I am writing this... you even inspired my eating tonight... that is powerful!

Thank you for your willingness to share your story and your kind words. Many out there with blood clots can read about you and learn that although your body may have some limitations due to the clotting episode you still have the chance to keep on rolling.

Together all of us can STOP THE CLOT!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Indianapolis Monumental Marathon - 11/07/2009

2009-11-09T19:20:00.000-08:00

3:36.05

1st Split (10K) = 43:32

2nd Split (13.1 Mile) = 1:35.31

3rd Split (30K) = 2:22.50 (three miles later the wheels fell off)

THANK YOU to all who supported me and dontated to benefit NATT's STOP THE CLOT mission.

If you are ever interested in getting your own polka-dots and raising funds to STOP THE CLOT please take the chance and become a NATThlete by clicking HERE.

Someday I may do a marathon again but for now it is time to take a break and rest the legs from the pounding.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

HAPPT HALLOWEEN!

2009-10-31T18:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

After returning back to Columbus, OH from Caracas, Venezuela it is time to get back to business... I hope that you have been following along to my updates on Twitter that you can see on the right-hand side panel of this blog.

First HAPPY HALLOWEEN !!!

Junior sure looked adorable this year. It is very enjoyable to dress them up any way we want... for now anyway...

Second, I am a week a way from running my second marathon of this year. This second one is to celebrate the launch of the STOP THE CLOT NATThtlete program. This is a program designed to let individuals get theit own polka-dots and become Clot Busters for their event of choice. This is a great opportunity to spread the word about Blood Clots and Blood Clotting Disorders and to fundraise in order to allow NATT to complete their mission.

Check out my fundraising page @ >>> http://www.firstgiving.com/rolandtheclotbuster

I can't believe that I've been able to prepare for this second race. I am going into it just hoping to complete the race and to enjoy myself. If I can run under 3:25 or improve upon my previous personal best I will thrilled!

At any rate, I hope that your Halloween was a great one.

Keep an eye on my updates through Twitter and see how my marathon goes next Saturday.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

P.S.= If you are intersted in looking into participating in the NATThlete program please take a look at the following link >>> http://www.stoptheclot.org/events/natt_fund_raiser.html

Good Times in NEW MEXICO

2009-10-19T19:11:00.000-07:00

Weekend get away in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico... definitely an awesome place to visit with Fantastic Friends and plenty to do...!

Enjoy some of my favorite pictures from our trip including the Balloon Fiesta and more!I wish that we could still be out there playing...

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Mrs. Clot Buster in action October 18th @ The Columbus, OH Half-Marathon

2009-10-16T18:37:00.000-07:00

Check out the following link to learn about Mrs. Clot Buster's fundraising effort for her Half-Marathon...

http://www.firstgiving.com/lizvarga

She will be wearing the Clot Buster - STOP THE CLOT - polka dots all around Columbus, OH and you can help her reach her fundraising by clicking in the link above.

If you happen to be racing in Columbus this weekend be in the look for the polka dots!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Now that I stopped drooling...

2009-10-13T18:18:00.000-07:00

from following the IRONMAN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP in Kona I can type again...

What a race we all got to watch on Saturday. I very much enjoyed the coverage and seeing how these athletes get to duke it out from the morning all the way to midnight. I have nothing but the outmost respect for anyone who can cover that distance in any venue but doing itKona that is something very special.

Who knows someday I may get lucky enough and make it on the lottery and you better believe I probably see the scene below of the finish line at midnight...

Someday the STOP THE CLOT polka-dots will make to the Big Island and do the 140.6 Miles to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders that much more.

Anything Is Possible... for all clotters out there!

Thanks for Reading,

The Clot Buster

October Athlete of the Month

2009-10-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

As many triathletes out there know October is the month of the IRONMAN World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. Probably the single most difficult one day event in the world.

For many of us Kona is nothing more than a very far away dream since you can only get there by qualifying or getting very lucky on the lottery (shhh don't tell Mrs. Clot Buster but I am applying for the lottery again this year)...

But the race in Kona is not the only Ironman race out there, there are plenty of other Ironman races across the country and every single finisher of those races has my outmost respect.

This month one of those finishers is also a clot survivor and the first one I know of who has taken the CLOT BUSTER POLKA-DOTS to STOP THE CLOT in an Ironman Race... Please meet KRISTOFFER PERRY.

Kristoffer raced IRONMAN COEUR d'ALENE this past June 27th which is a remarkable achievement and one that can serve as a splendid inspiration for all of us.

Please take some time and read Kristoffer's account of the race below, you are going to like it!

"The mass start of the swim went smooth, I had no feet to head combat like I had anticipated. I swam my first lap right on pace like I had wanted, and the second went by mentaly faster with no problems other than a slight leg cramp as I got out of the water on my way to start the bike.

I had a hard time getting settled in and getting a strong rythm on the bike. We had aid stations every ten miles, just as I left the first aid station at mile 12, I got the worst nose bleed. I was surely not going to turn around, so I just gritted my teeth and toughed it out until i reached the second aid station. At the aid station I got a piece of gauze that was big enough to stop the bleeding of a missing a leg so I rode the majority of the bike with this gaint piece of gauze hanging out of my nose. I got some very good pictures of me and the gauze on the bike. From mile 60 thru 90 was by far the hardest part of the whole race. I was trying to stay positve but it was very hard with the discomfort, nausea (so I didn't eat or drink for this time), and fitigue. I just kept pushing on the pedals and when I hit mile 91, I found a new strength reserve. Getting off the bike and putting on a pair of running shoes made me feel like a million bucks.

I knew that there was no way that I could run the whole marathon so I decied to run two mintues and then walk two mintues repetitively. I did this in order to conserve my legs and to keep moving forward. I was walking at such a brisk pace that I was passing people who were jogging. For the first half of the marathon all was well until the rain. That started to make things cold, but lucky for me I had warm clothes in my special needs bag. The second half of the run was a little slower. I started to get nausea again and it was hard to walk longer than two mintues. When I started to feel better, my legs were so accustomed to the slower pace that they wouldn't turn over. I ended up walking the last 10 miles but i was able to run the last half mile until the finish of the race.Finishing the Ironman was amazing. With the family waiting and cheering and all the spectaors cheering, it was the best sight to see after such a long day. Also, it was three years and only a few days since I learned that I had Factor V leiden and Protein S defiency, and made a comentment to stay active by starting to run. Some how I ended up at the finish line of the 2009 ford Ironman CD'A. So saying the finish was like dream come true is an understatement. It is more like realizing that anything is possible even if I have DVTs.

P.S. the Poka dots were with me all the way, however Due to weather the ended up under a lot of clothes."

Kristoffer THANK YOU 140.6 times for your willingness to share your story with us and providing us yet another example about how everything is possible even after a clotting incident and your diagnosis of a clotting disorder.

Keep it up my friend and I am sure some day I will race you in an Ironam Distance Event!

Thanks for Reading,

The Clot Buster

Don't forget...

2009-09-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

If you get the chance please checkout my Twitter updates @

http://twitter.com/clotbuster

You can also see my Twitter updates on the right side bar of the blog... just look right...!

Plenty of random thoughts to follow as I try to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders under the STOP THE CLOT polka-dots.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Not all is training...

2009-09-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

This weekend the Clot Buster family took a little trip to Mohican State Forrest for a weekend full of good friends, good times, and incredible food.This was Junior's first camping trip and he did just fine... he did cried in the middle of the night and I am not sure the people around our camp site appreciated that very much... oh well, I guess that comes with the territory... either way we had a sensational time and I think Junior is looking forward to go out and enjoy nature some more...On a side note if you have the chance please take a look at the following link... http://www.firstgiving.com/lizvarga Mrs. Clot Buster is jumping on to help out fundraising herself! If you care to help her reach her goal please donate and help us STOP THE CLOT. I just need to get her to wear some polka-dots but I am told that she will wear her shirt if she reaches her goal... so if you have it in you let's STOP THE CLOT!!!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Septmeber Athlete of the Month

2009-09-16T18:29:00.000-07:00

The last few editions of my Athlete of the Month posts have gone all over the world as I get to spread the word to STOP THE CLOT. Well, last monthwe got to stay state side but this month we get to go to ICELAND via Deland, Florida...

I am please to introduce to you someone I am very proud to know because of her fighting spirit and for never giving up even after having gone through a very serious clootting incident... please say hello to Kolla Kolbeinsdottir.

She is been kind enough to let me bother her and share with us some of her thoughts about her clottting incident and how she is managing her life after going through a life changing event like this...

1) What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it?
My sport of choice is triathlon - and I love it because it challenges me in so many ways, both mentally and physically. With 3 sports rolled into one, it never gets boring. One of my favorite things about doing tris are other triathletes. My training buds are some of the most interesting, fun, crazy and talented people I know, never a dull moment when we get together to play. My other sport is skydiving - but I'll admit to be a bit of a "has-been" in that one, with about 1100 jumps under my belt.

2) How did you get started in that sport?
By complete chance. Some years ago a good friend said "lets try a tri, come on, it will be fun" - and I said "ok, sure, why not, how hard can it be...". At the time I didn't consider myself athletic, didn't even own a bike and couldn't run 100 yards without passing out. A couple of months later I was a proud finisher of a sprint distance triathlon and head over heals in love with the sport (except the running part).

3) What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve? (Long bike ride, some race coming up or that you did)
This year has been a bit quiet on the racing front as I got married last June. Trekking home to Iceland with my future husband and 20 of our best friends in tow - and then putting on a wedding in 7 days was an endurance event in it's own right, but very fun :) Triathlon wise, I have decided to dedicate this winter to fight my old nemesis: the run. I got a coach (funny enough, the same person who initially talked me into doing the first triathlon) and now I have high hopes that I will not be passed by quite as many 11-year-olds in future races. I am also planning on an Olympic tri in Miami in March and toying with a half IM in New Orleans in April.

4) Tells about your clotting episode. Are you on blood thinners now? How long were you out of commission?
I had my first clot (DVT) over Christmas 2006. I embarked on a long trip to see my family for the holidays in the Canary Islands, off the coast of Africa. At the time I was using birth control (Nuva ring) and training pretty hard for what was to be my first OL distance tri. The air travel was anything but smooth but finally after 36 hrs or so in cramped quarters we arrived. The following morning my leg felt a little stiff, but since I had slipped on wet tiles the day before I attributed it to a pulled muscle and soldiered on. The following day it was worse, so I tried hefty doses of ibuprofen, a long walk/jog, then a massage and a long hot bath, then finally a good few beers with my brothers. I'm still amazed that none of that sent the clot flying. My calf had not changed in appearance, there was no heat or direct pain, just stiffness. My mom actually suggested that I might have a blood clot and that I should get checked out, but I dismissed that and told her that was something that happened to old ladies. Certainly not me, being in such good shape and all. When it came time to return home, I was in a good deal of pain and not really able to walk - but we packed up and got on a plane back to Florida. We got home on December 31st and that night went to dinner at a friends house. The host is a nurse, so I had her take a look and after describing the symptoms she immediately said "go to the ER, this sounds an awful lot like a clot". I dismissed her and told her I actually thought it was getting better, but promised that I would go see a doc if it wasn't markedly improved by morning. She was not happy with that, but I'm stubborn. The following morning I finally went to a doctor and he immediately sent me for an ultrasound at the ER - where nothing was found. They sent me home with instructions to lay low and keep off the leg and go see my general doc to find out what was going on. The following morning the hospital called again to let me know that they wanted me to come back in for another scan right away, and that time around it jumped out at them. I spent 5 days in the hospital and was put on bloodthinners (Warfarin). I did not tolerate that very well and despite strict diet and huge doses was not able to thin out properly. I was then put on Arixtra injections which seemed to work better. The doctor wanted me to stay on blood thinners for a year, but several studies I got my hands on indicated that 9 months after first clot was adequate. We had some hefty debates over treatment but he did agree to the 9 months. I have been drug free ever since.

5) When were you able to get back into your activity? How did it feel that first time?
I started training slowly as soon as the doctor gave me the green light - which was about 3 weeks after being admitted. I started off with swimming and biking. I still had pain in the leg and some swelling and wore compression socks a lot. Running (well, jogging) was awful. Hurt during the run, but the real pain began after it was done. It was also scary to train whilst on blood thinners, I was especially careful in choosing my riding partners to avoid wrecking. It was a little scary going back, every little ache or pain brought thoughts of having another clot. It was a strange transition to go from feeling strong and healthy one day to a sickly little wimp the next day. I did some more reading up, joined internet forums and found out about an alternate "drug" called Nattokinase (Natto). It is an enzyme extracted from fermented soy beans (a traditional fare in old Japan) that seems to break down fibrin in the blood stream. I spoke to my doc about it and he vehemently opposed at first. The research behind it is not very strong as of yet and probably wont be for a long while, as this is not a treatment backed by the drug giants. After having spoken to many people that described good experiences with Natto, I decided I wanted to try it. Eventually the doctor gave me the ok to go for it. To me, Nattokinase was a wonder drug - within 2-3 weeks of taking it, I was free of pain for the most part except after the hardest of workouts. I stayed on the Natto for about 2 months and continued to improve. Since then, I have used it only when I feel something "funny" or am about to embark on a long travel. I waited to go back to jumping until I was off the blood clots.

6) What is your favorite piece of gear for your favorite activity? (Bike brand, running shoes, perhaps a running singlet or the Clot Buster's Running Polka-Dot Technical Shirt...)
My Orbea Ora bike is by far my favorite, I simply love the little beast! I'm just bummed that they didn't have the red and white colors out when I bought mine - would have made for a nice clot busting bike ;) It doesn't always love me back, but together we keep on getting faster and stronger :) One day I am pretty sure that a Clot Buster tri top will be high on the list too :)

7) How much are you getting out doing your sport? (Everyday you do some training, 2, 3, 4 times per week)
I've been a bit of a slacker this summer, it is hard to stay on it in the Florida heat during July and August. But now that I can sense a bit of cool in the air again, the motivation is coming back strong. A ideal week would be 2x swim, 3x runs and 2x bikes, but that is if everything goes according to plan, which it rarely does - so I guess I average it out with 4-5 workouts a week when I'm in training.

8) What is your favorite food? Either generally or after a workout. For me there is nothing better than a Chipotle Burrito...
I'm not much of a foodie, but a nice, ice cold Coke is my reward after a hard workout. In an effort to control my cola addiction and live healthier, I decided a few years to drink soda only on the weekends, so it tastes even sweeter to me now!

9) If you could go some place to visit and explore, where would like to go?
Nepal and/or Tibet - the terrain and culture are incredibly alluring to me. Seeing the Himalayas up close would be incredible.

10) What would like to say to someone who is going through a clotting episode, perhaps very similar to yours? How can people return to do what they enjoy? Tells about your concerns and what you look out after as you got back.
For most everyone having a blood clot means a huge change in lifestyle initially - along with a rude awakening to own mortality. I suggest trying to maintain a positive, "can-do" attitude and learn as much about your condition as possible. Explore your options, discuss them with your doctor, talk to other clotters - keep an open but objective mind. Having the goal of completing the triathlon I was training for was very important to me - it gave me what I needed to get off the couch, face my fears and start the journey back to good health. I consider myself very fortunate to have returned 99% to my former self - but it took taking 100% responsibility for myself and my actions. I immediately discontinued hormonal birth control (can I plug here the Lady Comp ovulation monitor? It's fantastic!), I pledged to live a healthy and active lifestyle and learn as much as I could about my condition (I am Factor V Leiden positive). It was scary at first and the thought of "the next one" loomed near. But little by little I got out of that mindset and today, nearing 3 years clot free, I feel I have come to a good balance in my life again. It saddens me when I meet people that have let the clot stop them dead in their tracks. Full recovery may not always possible, but for so many at least some improvements can be made over time. Never stop fighting!

NEVER STOP FIGHTING for sure!

THANK YOU Kolla for your willingness to share your story. Without a doubt your atttitude and awareness will take you everywhere you want to go even to Nepal and Tibet...

Kolla, please know that we are thinking about you and your father on these difficult times. You have learned a great deal through your clotting incident and this will only help to get you guys through. HANG IN THERE!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Update on August 2008 and June 2009 Athletes of the Month

2009-09-10T18:51:00.000-07:00

Greetings from the Clot Buster!

Having the Athlete of the Month series of posts has been a very incredible experience all around. The best part of it all is getting the chance to know the individuals featured and their journey during their clotting episodes and more importantly how they are coming back and continue to perform.

Just recently I got wind of some continued accomplishments by two of the featured Athletes of the Month...

FIRST - MIKE FRIEDMAN - August 2008 Athlete of the Month.

Just a couple of days ago he found himself on a day long breakaway at the Tour of Missouri on stage number 3. His break lasted about 100 Miles but it was not meant to be on a sprint finish at the end of the stage. We did not get to win but he was out there hammering away.

Good on you Mike!

SECOND - JIM FENTON - June 2009 Athlete of the Month.

This past weekend Jim participated and completed the Virginia Beack, VA Half Marathon. On his own words "It was a blast!".

I am very happy that he was able to train, participate, and complete the event as he had planned. He says that he is not fast but in the end that is not what matters, what matters is that he finished!

Jim CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Do you want to learn more about Blood Clots and Blood Clotting Disorders...?

2009-09-05T19:07:00.000-07:00

If you have some time to spare and want to learn more about blood clots please checkout the following link >>>

http://www.itvisus.com/programs/hbhm/episode_1301_Deadly_Blood_Clots.asp

Very good documentary about the very things we are trying to prevent and educate people about.

If you enjoyed the movie, please pass it on to friends and family. The more people know the better!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Greater Cleveland Triathlon Action Shots

2009-09-02T18:43:00.000-07:00

Here is some eye candy for all of you out there who love the polka-dots and can't get enough of them...

Looking good on the bike. The DOLAND HERCULES was a delight on this race... It likes to go fast and I am not about to do anything to slow it down...

Focus trying to make it home without melting away in the hummidity of that morning... this picture is close to the finish and I so want to get there ahead of the two guys in front of me...

I am gaining on them with every stride... always fun to have someone to go after... turns out neither of the guys were in my age group and according to the results third place by this point I had safely in the bag...

Look at my good friend Bill McIntosh going at it less than three weeks after completing in IM Lake Placid.. is he focused or what...?

If you are interested in getting your own polka-dots to spread the word at your races please get in touch with me and I will let you know all of the details.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

August Athlete of the Month - PART II

2009-08-26T18:20:00.000-07:00

As promised here is the second part of my introduction to you of Mr. Rick Fitzgerald... GET INSPIRED out thre because this 56 year old machine is an example to all of us!

1) What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it?
Running, bicycling and cross-country skiing are my sports of choice.

I consider myself to be primarily a runner. I love so many aspects of the sport:
The freedom of being able to run anywhere at just about any time. I run through neighborhoods and on wooded trails. I’ve used running to explore new cities and to make new friends. I love the atmosphere of running events. I love the feeling of accomplishment during races and the feeling of satisfaction after going on “just a run.”

Bicycling offers most of the same satisfactions, with the added benefit of being able to cover a lot more miles in less time. I get a kick out of being able to get myself from one town to another using just the power I can generate on my own.

Cross-country skiing is basically a much easier way to go trail running during a Michigan winter.

I enjoy these sports because they are accessible to “everyday Joes” like me.

2) How did you get started in that sport?
I got started running in the mid-1980s. We were living in Muskegon, Mich., a community along the Lake Michigan shoreline. I worked at the local newspaper and one of the community hospitals decided to sponsor a run. As a way to promote the race, they offered a beginning running clinic, with advice and group runs.

Running was one of those athletic endeavors I had tried to get going on a couple of times without much success. This time, I figured out a way to stick with it my committing myself in print. During the summer-long running clinics, I wrote a weekly column in the newspaper about what I was learning as a beginning runner. Our “graduation” was a 10-kilometer run in late August.

I’ve been running every since.

As for bicycling … First I have to say I am not a competitive bicyclist. I’ve never participated in a bike race. But my wife, Cathy, and I have done lots of week-long bicycle tours over the years and really enjoy spending time on our bikes.

3) What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve? (Long bike ride, some race coming up or that you did)
For the last seven years, I’ve used my bicycle to help raise funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan. Each year we pedal 300 miles in three days to help raise money for this organization that grants wishes to medically fragile children and their families. This year, about 700 of us raised $1.5 million during the last weekend of July. We had five family members on the ride this year.

One of the neatest events of the year is a trail run coming up in September. It’s called Dances With Dirt and it takes place in Hell, Mich. It’s a five-person, 50-kilometer relay race that takes us, literally, over the river and through the woods … and through the swamps and over sand dunes, and …

The guy who designs the course calls himself the Head Goat and he’s certifiably insane. The event is exhausting and an absolute blast.

In March, I ran the 8 Tuff Miles rod race in St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands. It’s this amazing race where you run (if you can call it that) from one end of the island to the other. It’s uphill for five miles, then downhill for three. In spite of that, I finished faster than I ever thought I could. The views are amazing and the location is stunning. I highly recommend it.

4) Tells about your clotting episode. Are you on blood thinners now? How long were you out of commission?
I learned I had a blood clot when I had a pulmonary embolism in May of 2005. We were attending a community fund-raising event with a group of friends. We were enjoying a glass of wine and some appetizers as we browsed through a silent art auction. Suddenly I had this excruciating pain in the right side of my chest. As it got worse, I had a hard time moving. I propped myself against a wall and suggested to my wife, Cathy, that maybe she should go get the car.

We decided to head for the emergency room, where we spent the next 4-5 hours as I was poked and prodded; tested and retested. After getting the pain under control with some pretty powerful drugs, we were sent on our way with no clear diagnosis. Maybe it was pleurisy, the ER doc suggested.

I felt OK the next morning and went to work. About 10 a.m. a radiologist called. He was reviewing my tests and wanted me to come back for one more test. Sure, I said, I’ll leave work a little and come by. No, you need to come back to the ER now, the doctor said.

So I drove the 30 miles to the hospital. After checking in at the ER I was ushered to into a small, dark room where they administered a doppler test of my legs. It seems, the radiologist suspected a blood clot and, as I learned, the most likely location is in the lower legs.

Well, it didn’t take long before the technician found the clot behind my left knee. That led to a three-day stay in the hospital connected to an IV drip of heparin and then the switch over to warfarin therapy. I went home and in just a few days, the chest pain was back and I was back in the hospital. This time I checked in for a full week-long course of herparin therapy.

The hemotoligist who treated me said I had a really big PE and was lucky to be alive. While I’m thankful for that, I don’t believe it was all luck. I think running had something to do with it. I was healthy and strong and I believe that helped keep me alive. He was never able to completely explain why I got the clot. Tests did confirm that I had one abnormal prothrombin gene, but that’s it. No other risk factors, no big swollen leg that I ignored.

Fine-tuning the warfarin was pretty easy for me and I was back on the bike by the end of June. By the end of July, I was able to participate in that Make-A-Wish bicycle ride, although I did cut the first couple days a little short.

I stayed on warfarin for about 18 months, then went on an aspirin a day. That worked well, until this May. Sure enough, about four years to the day from the PE, I suspected I had developed another clot. And it was running that tipped me off.

I typically don’t run as much during the winter, so each spring it takes a little more to get back up to speed. This spring it seemed to take longer than normal, but some days were better than others, so I ignored it. I ran the Capital City Half Marathon with my daughter, Sara, in Columbus, Ohio, the first weekend in May. We ran comfortably and enjoyed the day.

The next weekend, we went bird watching at Point Pelee National Park on Lake Erie in Ontario. Canada. On the way home I had this strangely familiar chest pain. I called my doctor Monday and later that week, I got another one of those doppler tests. Sure enough, I had another blood clot.

Now I’m back on warfarin. This time it’s for good.

5) When were you able to get back into your activity? How did it feel that first time?
I got back to running about a month after that initial stay in the hospital. It felt great to be active again. It was especially good because that shortness of breath – that I thought was just my aging body complaining – was gone.

6) What is your favorite piece of gear for your favorite activity? (Bike brand, running shoes, perhaps a running singlet or the Clot Buster's Running Polka-Dot Technical Shirt...)
I love my Specialized road bike. I did the first three 300-mile rides on a hybrid bike. What a difference those skinny tires make!

7) How much are you getting out doing your sport? (Everyday you do some training, 2, 3, 4 times per week)
Dances With Dirt is looming on the horizon, so I’m working out just about every day. I’m focused on running now, but still try to get into the gym and get on the bike during the course of a week, too. I try to get out and run in the morning before work, but tend to head to the gym or ride the bike in the evening.

8) What is your favorite food? Either generally or after a workout. For me there is nothing better than a Chipotle Burrito...  
I’m a breakfast fanatic. Cinnamon-raisin French toast or blueberry pancakes. There’s just nothing better than one of those choices with an endless supply of strong black coffee. Run, then breakfast. Ride the bike to your favorite breakfast spot. There’s simply no better way to start the day.

9) If you could go some place to visit and explore, where would like to go?  
National parks. I want to visit them all. We’re hoping Glacier National Park will be coming up next. Yellowstone is one of the most incredible places on the planet.

10) What would like to say to someone who is going through a clotting episode, perhaps very similar to yours? How can people return to do what they enjoy? Tells about your concerns and what you look out after as you got back.
Shit happens. Get over it and get on with your life. Don’t let the clot define you. Take control of your life.

For me, eating consistently – a salad every day – has helped me maintain a consistent warfarin therapy level. As long as that number stays in the therapeutic range, I just go on doing what I love to do. I run. I ride. I ski. I never was one to play contact sports, so I never had to give them up. I may see it differently if I loved to play hockey.

The one thing I did learn through all of this was to recognize the warning signs and to take them seriously. I knew something was wrong when those chest pains returned. Sure, you could say I was dumb not to head to the ER on the way back from Ontario. But at least I didn’t completely blow it off.

It’s up to you take responsibility for our own health. It’s not your doctor’s job to keep you healthy. He’s there to deal with the bad stuff. You have to take care of yourself. For me, that includes staying active, eating right … and paying attention to certain warning signs.

========== ========== =========

Rick,

MANY THANKS once more for your willingness to share with us your story. I am very lucky to have had the chance to meet you in person and draw on the energy and love of live that you radiate. I saw you running here in Columbus, OH this year... maybe next year you will be wearing one of the Clot Buster shirts to help us spread the word!

It is almot 10PM and I want to get out there and ride my bike... but considering that Junior may decide to wake up around 1AM I better get to bed.

Good night to all.

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

August Athlete of the Month

2009-08-20T19:08:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the delay in getting around to post about August's Athlete of the Month but due to some technical difficulties and other delays outside of our control I will need to do a partial post of August's Athlete of the month.

This month I have the pleasure to introduce to someone that I admire very much due to his "never give up" attitude even after several clotting episodes that have tried to slow him down but have only managed to make him more determined. Please welcome Mr. RICK FITZGERALD as August's Athlete of the Month.

In a my next post about Mr. Fitzgerald you will learn a lot more about him but for now you need to know that this guy is a true example of how you can definitely bounce back regardless of the number of clots that you have suffered.

Just recently I learned that in a vacation trip to the US Virgin Islands Mr.Fitzgerald participated in one of the hardest run races in the planet... If you have ever been to the US Virgin Islands you know about how steep and twisty the roads can be. Well, this run race takes place in St. John and it is a race from one end of the island to the next. My legs start to shake just thinking about the difficulty of this race on how much it can hurt. It is not very long (8 Miles) but they are a brutal set of 8 Miles.

Mr. Fitzgerald continues to inspire with all the different activities he does even after his clots. Please stay tuned to my next post to learn more about this man and how we can teach us a thing or two about dedication and never giving up.Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

Did you hear the news...!?!?!

2009-08-18T14:00:00.000-07:00

Learn more about NATT's press release by clicking HERE.

This is something very special for me as I've come a LONG WAYS to get this to happen. If you can and wish to participate DON'T HESITATE. You will be doing Great Good by helping to spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

Pass on the word to others... let's get the polka-dots out there in full force!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

3rd Annual - Greater Cleveland Triathlon STOP THE CLOT Race and Raffle

2009-08-15T18:58:00.000-07:00

I can't say it enough... Mickey >>> THANK YOU for the opportunity to let the STOP THE CLOT and Clot Buster gang take part on your event and let us spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders while giving out some sweet prices...!
All things conisdered we had a tremendous weekend. Too bad the rain on Saturday scared a lot of people away and we could not sale that many tickets for the raffle... bad for NATT but GREAT to those who did buy tickets as their odds were much better thanks to the rain.

But regardless of the weather the polka-dots stood tall and battled the weather in order to give people the chance to get a ticket and a chance to learn about NATT's mission and a chance to win.

Also, a HUGE THANKS to the Deirdre, Bill, Liam, and Conor for hosting us, teaching us how to play Wii, and for providing Junior to older brothers for the weekend. I wish I could tell you how much fun it was for them as well as for Junior.

Once more Lake Eire threw a wrench to the Triathlon plans and converted the race into a big duathlon... 5K Run1, 40K Bike, 5K Run2. I surprised myself when I ran a 19:43 first 5K... do you know how long has it been since I've been under 20... too long to tell. The bike was a bliss on top of the Hercules... I sure was flying but with the wet pavement I had to be careful. The second run was solid enough to let me get into the THIRD PLACE in my age group. Definitely very pleased with that. Well Done! Congratulations to ALL THE RAFFLE winners and THANK YOU for stopping by to help NATT and to learn about STOP THE CLOT.

If Mickey takes us back again next year we will try and come loaded again with plenty of prizes and more inspirational stories like the ones you were able to read about at the booth. Those are the stories that keep the polka-dots going!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

P.S. = Did you notice antyhing different on the Clot Buster? If you did, drop me a line and let me know...

"What am I on...? Series Continued

2009-08-03T18:31:00.000-07:00

Little over 5 days to go for the STOP THE CLOT Raffle at the Greater Cleveland Triathlon weekend event in Mentor, OH. I am amazed that this will be the THIRD time the Clot Buster clan will find their way to Cleveleand - Mentor, OH and have a weekend full of polka-dots, STOP THE CLOT spreading, and of course triathlon racing...!

Over the last posts on this series I talked about my choice of footwear for both running and cycling which included some good looking high-top socks that I am still debating about...

So, I think that it is time to move on to the machine (or machines in this case) that allow the Clot Buster to blaze through the races or at least they let him believe that he is doing just that..

I have to begin by talking about the bike that has been with me the better part of 7 years and has taken me through all kinds of races pretty much all over the country. Please bow your head in respect to my beloved KESTREL TALON SL.

I can still remember the first time I laid eyes on this frame and fell in love with it. I did a lot of research and no matter where I looked and what I looked at I always went back to the smooth lines of the Kestrel Talon. The ride of course has been a dream since the day I bought the bike... simply comfortable from start to finish. This one has been a great bike to get into long triathlons as she is most responsive once you get in your big gear and you can hammer on flats or rolling hills. She just keeps the momentum and goes as fast as your legs can take once you get her moving. I don't feel the frame is responsive enough for quick accelerations but in our sport that is something we don't need. This bike has been a thrill to ride and I enjoy every ride I get to go along with her.

Now, like any bike junkie, you need to hear about my "other" bike. The newest bike in my collection the one that gets my heart rate going... this one is a dream machine for me... Please meet my DOLAN BIKES - HERCULES machine. This little slice of heaven in two wheels is my latest addition to my collection of bikes and it is without a doubt one that I am enjoying a great deal. Of course, you can't look past the attractive lines this bike has. You can't help but be glued to how smooth and simple they are. At first, it felt very strange to be riding a geometry of this kind. It took some trial and error to get dialed in but once the guys at DPM Sports and I found the sweet spot it has been a real treat to get on the Hercules and ride for hours on end. I love how strong and responsive it feels but how light it is at the same time. Definitely the bike I've been looking for and the one you will see me use at the STOP THE CLOT Raffle weekend at the Greater Cleveland Triathlon.

If you have any questions at all about this dream machine please don't hesitate to ask. If I don't know I will be sure to get in touch with the fine guys at DPM Sports and they will be sure to get all of your questions answered.

So there you have it... the machines I am on to spead the word about our campaign to STOP THE CLOT.

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster