Here is wishing you...

THE MOST WONDERFUL HOLIDAY SEASON.

MAY THE NEW YEAR BRING YOU 

MANY POLKA-DOTS 

ALONG WITH GOOD HEALTH,

 HAPPINESS, 

AND GOOD FORTUNE!

December Athlete of the Month

How did we arrive already to the end of this year...?

I was just getting started on this MilesStone Year for me.

But with 2017 coming to an end a new set of possibilities will come with 2018.

Certainly 2018 will be another MilesStone Year for me and this very blog.  Stay tuned for more information as it will be time to celebrate!

Speaking of celebrating let's get this season going with sharing the insights of this Clot Survivor which, I am sure, you will find unique and inspiring.

Please allow me to introduce to you my very first Stair Runner Clot Survivor MELISSA HINOJOSA.  Without a question Melissa's input will be one you can value after all she always go high and to the top.  I sure hope she takes the elevator down once she reaches the top...

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

I love stairs! Vertical running is a little known sport with many health benefits. There’s also the thrill of looking at a building knowing that you made it to the top!

2)  How did you get started in that sport?

I was in my mid 40s and looking for an indoor winter sport when I came across the 2015 Fight for Air Climb Detroit. Although I’m a marathoner it was quite a challenge! I've increased my speed and endurance over the past couple of years with the help from supportive climb mentors.

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

This April I climbed CN Tower’s 144 floors in Toronto, Ontario. It’s my favorite climb, and I’m currently training for the 2018 event. My dream is to one day win the Empire State Building Run-Up lottery!

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

In August 2016 I felt faint while running with a Detroit Marathon training group. I chalked it up to slight dehydration. Over the next two weeks my right leg ached, but assumed it was due to training. Shortly before leaving for a California vacation my right leg was swollen. Once again I wasn’t too concerned. While climbing Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook in Los Angeles I was out of breath and needed numerous breaks. By the end of the trip walking on the beach was exhausting. After a red-eye flight back to Detroit my leg was more swollen and in extreme pain. Two hours later I was in the ER being diagnosed with three large DVTs. One clot went from below the calf to the groin area. The ER team placed me on Eliquis and stressed how lucky I was to have survived the California flights. I was eventually sent home to rest, which I didn’t do. The following week I was coughing uncontrollably and had shortness of breath during a staff meeting. An hour later I was back in the ER with several PEs in my lungs. It was 8 months before I was able to get back to a normal workout routine. During that time there were endless tests for blood clotting disorders and autoimmune diseases. All tests came back negative and the fourth doppler ultrasound showed clots had dissolved. I was taken off blood thinners, but do suffer from Post-Thrombotic Syndrome. Thankfully I’m able to be physically active most days without much pain.

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

After a month I walked my first (SLOW) mile at the YMCA indoor track. It took 8 months before I was back to my normal routine, but those first steps felt amazing!   

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’ll be sporting my new Clot Buster’s technical tank in stairwells soon, but my favorite running shirts are Team Playmakers apparel. I’m a member of the Michigan running store’s fun and supportive team.

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

On a typical week I climb twice, go on a group run once, and strength train once or twice. During the Midwest winters spin bike classes with my husband and/or strength training with friends are a welcome change of pace from outdoor running.   

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

After a good workout nothing beats Mitten Munch P B & J Trail Bars! Of course I also wouldn’t turn down a Drummond Island, Michigan pasty!

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

I’d love to explore the Bisbee outdoor staircases in Bisbee, AZ.

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.

Be your own advocate and seek a second opinion if something doesn’t seem right. Listen to your body and take recovery at your own pace. It’s perfectly normal to suffer some emotional setbacks as well. There are wonderful online support groups to help you through the process. It takes time to get back on your feet again, but always remember that you are a survivor!

Many Thanks Melissa for your willingness to share your story. One day I hope to try one of those stair running races as long as the way down is via the elevator.

Here is looking forward to see the CLOT BUSTER #StopTheClot polka-dots climbing stairs and reaching new heights!

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

November Athlete of the Month

ONE DOWN... ONE MORE TO GO for TEAM #STOPTHECLOT

After successfully completing the grueling effort of 26.2 Miles at the Marine Corps Marathon Team #STOPTHECLOT is moving on to take on the challenge of the New York City Marathon where there will continue their mission of spreading awareness about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

Look Out! The STOPTHECLOT polka-dots could be running along side you...

Once again blood clots can affect ANYONE at ANYTIME.  Some are luckier than others unfortunately but in the end they are preventable.  Everyone who learns about the signs and symptoms of blood clots simply because they checked out STOPTHECLOT.org potentially is a life that we have been able to save. 

But spreading awareness is not only our only goal... Volunteer runners (most of them) wear the polka-dots because THEY ARE SURVIVORS and we celebrate with them that THEY CAN...!

ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE FOR BLOOD CLOT SURVIVORS!!!

Here are our runners looking to take on the 26.2 Miles of the NYC Marathon... WISH THEM GOOD LUCK!!!

DAVID PINSONNEALUT  = March 2017 Athlete of the Month

https://www.crowdrise.com/nationalbloodclotalliancenyc2017/fundraiser/davidpinsonneault

CHARLIE WHITFIELD

https://www.crowdrise.com/nationalbloodclotalliancenyc2017/fundraiser/charleswhitfield

EVAN BROVENDER

https://www.crowdrise.com/nationalbloodclotalliancenyc2017/fundraiser/evanbrovender

SALLIE CRAWFORD

https://www.crowdrise.com/nationalbloodclotalliancenyc2017/fundraiser/salliecrawford

KELLI BUTENKO 

https://www.crowdrise.com/nationalbloodclotalliancenyc2017/fundraiser/kellibutenko

KELLY ADAMSON

https://www.crowdrise.com/nationalbloodclotalliancenyc2017/fundraiser/kellyadamson

Here is wishing the whole team the BEST OF LUCK in taking on this incredible challenge.

I am beyond excited to see more polka-dotted individuals taking on this incredible race in NYC.  Enjoy every step of the day while you take on the sites and sounds of that unique backdrop.  You will never forget running down the streets of NYC.

If you see the folks in the Team #STOPTHECLOT polka-dots please cheer them on! They will appreciate the words of encouragement.

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Our creations for this year...

Enjoy the Spooky Day!

October Athlete of the Month

Although summer is finally departing and my heart sinks for a moment...

But then I snap back to reality and I AM VERY EXCITED because this is  season in which Blood Clot Survivors and Family/Friends of Blood Clot Patients get to inspire us all by volunteering and participating in various fundraising marathons... 

You read that right VARIOUS...! 

Team STOPTHECLOT fundraising has expanded from the New York City Marathon to now also include the MARINE CORPS MARATHON.  This is an Outstanding job by the fine folks at The National Blood Clot Alliance! I am so proud of what they have been able to accomplish.

Look Out! The STOPTHECLOT polka-dots could be running along side you...because the CLOT BUSTER Team #STOPTHECLOT polka-dots are heading out to our volunteer runners...and there are many of them!

Once again blood clots can affect ANYONE at ANYTIME.  Some are luckier than others... The Blood Clot Survivor you are about to meet is a perfect example of this... So glad that we can use her runner talents to to help us spread the word.  After you read her story feel free to browse of her fundraising page and help her achieve her goal... READ ON!

https://www.crowdrise.com/margaret-paul-stop-the-clot

"Hello! 

My name is Margaret Paul and I am proud to be apart of team Stop the Clot for the Marine Corp Marathon this coming October 2017!! woohoo! :) 

Two years ago, on October 22, 2015, I had my first encounter with blood clots. I was a healthy, 20 year old collegiate track sprinter, who was scared out of my mind to say the least. One clot formed superficially in my left arm, while another formed deep within my left leg, stretching from my IVC all the way down to my popliteal vein in my knee. 

After three surgical thrombectomies, four days in the ICU, and a week total in the hospital, the doctors on my case recommended that I withdrawal from school to reside in the Portland area for the remaining of my fall term for follow-up appointments and physical therapy. Countless blood tests were done, and the doctors concluded that I have Leiden FactorV clotting disorder. The trauma to my leg from the clot and thrombectomies caused severe nerve damage and I was not able to walk for a month after the clot episode. As a track runner, this was one of the most difficult parts of the process. I rehabbed, physical therapy 3 times a week, and finally started walking again. 

In February of 2016, though out of sprinter shape, I headed back down to school, laced up my spikes and competed in my first race on a track again. I was alive, I was well, and I was running again, it was an absolute miracle. I could not have gotten through the long days in the hospital and months of rehab without my family by my side, which is why I want them to run this marathon with me. They have supported me through countless doctors appointments, blood tests, surgeries, and now, we want to give back together. 

I want to tell my story, showing that it is possible to overcome massive obstacles, fight on, and get back on your feet again (literally). I got my love for running from my mom. She is my role model and my best friend. My mom and brother have done a fundraising for charity for the breast cancer foundation for the New York City Marathon and raised over $4,000 each. My goal for fundraising for Stop the Clot would be to raise $5,000. In addition to running to raise funds for the National Blood Clot Alliance, I am also running for my Dad who struggles with A-fib (has had three cardioversions, one ablation, currently on Eliquis), knowing A-fib is a compounding factor in clotting disorders. And if that isn’t enough reason to run the Marine Corp Marathon and raise funds for the National Blood Clot Alliance, to top it all off, my Grandpa was a Marine, fought in the Korean War, and I would love to honor him and his service knowing he’d be watching from Heaven while I run past the Korean War memorial honoring him, and so many others that have served our country. 

My mom, and I are honored to represent Stop the Clot while running the Marine Corp Marathon. This will be my first ever marathon, and my mom's last marathon...and I couldn't think of a better way to run it - telling my story, fundraising for Stop the Clot, and bringing awareness for others. Thank you to anyone and everyone who contributes to my fundraiser, I couldn't reach my goal without you all! :)"

Without a doubt Margaret is navigating this journey with the best attitude possible. She will not let blood clots stop her... not even slow her down.

I can't wait to see her conquering the 26.2Miles in her STOPTHECLOT polka-dots!

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

September Athlete of the Month

Every year this is a challenging time for me...

Unfortunately the summer is ending and my hard earned tan lines will soon fade away...

But VERY EXCITED because it is the season in which Blood Clot Survivors and Family/Friends of Blood Clot Patients get to inspire us all by participating in our various fundraising marathons... 

That is right VARIOUS...! 

TEAM STOPTHECLOT fundraising has expanded from the New York City Marathon to now also include the MARINE CORPS MARATHON.  This is an Outstanding job by the fine folks at The National Blood Clot Alliance! I am so proud of what they have been able to accomplish.

Look Out! The STOPTHECLOT polka-dots could be running along side you...

Without a doubt you will get to see this fine individual at the Marine Corps Marathon coming up in October.  Straight out of from her fundraising page (which you can access in the link below...) please read on to find a truly inspiring personal account of overcoming the surprise and challenges of coming doing with a blood clotting incident... Never Ever stop advocating or yourself... It could save your life!

https://www.crowdrise.com/nancys-tenacious-audacious-journey-to-stop-the-clot/fundraiser/nancymello-miller?modified=1

"My name is Nancy and I'm a blood clot survivor.

In April of 2014 I joyfully learned I was pregnant with my 3rd child, after tragically loosing my daughter at birth that previous August. At the time I learned I was pregnant, I was training for a half marathon. The Dr's approved my continuing to run and in May I ran with a nagging calf pain. About a week after the half marathon, I visited my Dr to have my calf looked at, as it had not improved. My Dr asked me the basic questions I had been asked every single time I had gone in with a running injury- did I or my family have a history of blood clots? Had I travelled over 8 hours in the last two days? Satisfied with my "nos" my PCM declared it was just a sprain and to RICE. (Rest, ice, compression, elevation.) I followed his orders to a T, wearing compression socks and enjoying the break from running.

Two weeks later my calf was still not getting better. It was still a "nagging" pain that didn't ever seem to go away. My anxiety got the best of me, and I began to "DR GOOGLE" my symptoms. Every symptom I had pointed to a DVT, or a blood clot. I found www.stoptheclot.org and read story after story of people my age without a family history with similar symptoms being diagnosed. Armed with this information, I went back to my Dr. and insisted on an ultrasound. The Dr called me paranoid to my face, telling me I was over-reacting and my grief from my child-loss was getting the best of me. Still, he relented and ordered an ultrasound.

The first ultrasound was negative. I went home and rested. One week later, the pain still hadn't gone away. I went back in and they ordered another ultrasound. Again it was negative. (More "paranoia" the Dr told me.) They prescribed me Ativan to "help the baby" Another week later, the pain was still there and I was getting "hot spots".  The third ultrasound was negative. My PCM, OB both told me to have a glass of wine and drink more water. The stories from stoptheclot.org stayed in my head. I asked the Dr's if it was possible for an ultrasound to miss a clot. "But you have nice veins" one ultrasound tech told me. "It was very VERY rare to miss one," they assured me.

The fourth ultrasound- Friday- this one was different. The tech stayed on one spot for a very long time. A supervisor was called in to double check, and assured me it was nothing.

Sunday- the pain was so bad I was in tears. I decided to go back to urgent care. The DR on call looked at my history and shrugged his shoulders "Why not?" I remember him saying as he ordered the ultrasound.  

The fifth ultrasound- the clot was found. I cried openly I was told- vindicated that my gut was right, and scared.  I immediately was put on lovenox for treatment. Drs were in such shock that a clot was found (and missed 4 times) that it was reviewed FOUR times within 24 hours by different Drs.

My new hematologist found a genetic mutation- MTHFR that (along with pregnancy and the calf sprain) amounted to the DVT.  I safely navigated the rest of my pregnancy and gave birth to a health baby boy in December of 2014.

The road forward has not been easy since my DVT. Diagnosed with post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) my calf will "ache" without rhyme or reason. My vein where the DVT was, is now damaged, perhaps permanently. The distance running that makes my soul soar is now hard to obtain. I have had many, many, false starts back into running- each time being sidelined by PTS and calf pain that lasts weeks.

I refuse to give up on what I love simply because of my DVT. I am finding ways to run distance- incorporating massage therapy, weight-training, and always, ALWAYS- wearing compression socks. My calf aches daily. Yet, I will not quit.

I am honored to be running the MCM for the organization that helped save my life. Without the stories on stoptheclot.org, I probably wouldn't have pushed as hard for repeated ultrasounds. Regardless what is thrown at me during this training, I will not stop. If I get truly injured, I will find another way to continue to train."

Without a doubt Nancy is Tenacious and she is navigating this journey with the best attitude possible. She will not let blood clots stop her... not even slow her down.

Looking at an update from Nancy's Fundraising Page she is going the distance getting up to 18Miles with about 7 weeks to go before the race.  Her confidence is soaring as she is working on her come back!

I can't wait to see her conquering the 26.2Miles in her STOPTHECLOT polka-dots!

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

August Athlete of the Month

It does not matter who you are...

Young or old...

Male or Female...

Athletic or Normal...

Soccer Player or Triathlete...

Blood Clots can happen TO ANYONE AT ANYTIME...!!!

You MUST BE AWARE of the signs of symptoms as it can save your life... 

Start learning by visiting STOPTHECLOT.org 

You will be glad that you did.

You will also be glad to keep on reading... This month's featured blood clot survivor certainly has a story to tell...You don't want want to miss it... so READ ON...

"Eye on the Prize: Maddies Clotting Story

My name is Maddie, and I am a junior neuroscience major and varsity soccer player on the pre medical track at Stonehill College, a small DII school in Massachusetts. Soccer is a huge part of my life, it has always been my escape, my stress reliever and my happy place. I wouldn’t give it up for anything in the world. Soccer season is the time of year where I feel completely content with the sport that I love.  However, during the 2016-2017 soccer season I found myself on a journey that changed my life.

The 2016 season was a special one. My team was the underdog of the Northeast 10 conference, and we had the intent to prove everyone wrong this season and to shock the nation. We fought our way through many tough games and constantly pushed ourselves to be the best we could can be; we had each other’s backs and gave it our all out there. We traveled on busses to different states to challenge tough opponents; we kept our eye on the prize, to strive to be champions of our league. I was a sophomore center midfielder at the time, my job involved a lot of running on both offense and defense in order to have my teammate’s back all over the field. Well, in October 2016 I learned how well my teammates had my back too, but this time off the field.

One day when I was walking back from class, I spontaneously developed this terrible pain in the left side of my head. It was easily the worst headache I had ever felt. With playoffs in mind I was a bit hesitant to go to my health center in fear of missing practice, but the pain was enough for me to get it checked out. I explained to my schools health center that I was a student athlete and had a history of migraines and this pain was atypical from any migraine I had ever experienced. They sent me to the local emergency room.

With my knowledge of how serious head injuries can be, I informed the doctors that I was a student athlete on a contact sport team and mentioned the possibility of a head injury and inquired about a concussion. I was surprised when the doctors dismissed my concerns saying I probably did not need a scan and it was probably just a bad migraine. However, I ended up returning back to that ER later that night when the pain, dizziness and vomiting severely worsened. Again I was extremely surprised when the doctors did not think I needed to be scanned, and was slightly insulted when they joked and insisted that my pain could have been alcohol induced. I explained that I was a serious student and dedicated athlete who would not want to miss playoffs for the world; so my coming into the ER twice meant that my pain was very real. They did a cognitive concussion test and asked me about my medical history. I was on oral contraceptives to treat another medical condition, but did not take any other drugs or drank alcohol. They again sent me back to school and said it was just a bad migraine.

The next few days were tough. I thought I was foolish and weak for going to the ER twice with nothing wrong. I tried going back to my normal life, including going to class and even trying to practice. I struggled. The dizziness and pain were bad and I felt extremely fatigued from not eating and drinking much because of nausea. Some of my teammates knew that I was not okay. These special ladies took extremely good care of me; they helped me finish my assignments, brought me food, and even held my hand during tough nights when the pain was particularly bad. A few days after my ER trip, my team had a game in Syracuse, about a four hour bus ride. I went with them. Although I wasn’t strong enough to play I wanted to be there to support them. My teammates continued to support me on this trip as they cared for me when I wasn’t feeling well at the hotel and comforted me when I had trouble on the bus. Two of my teammates agreed that the Monday after we got home from our trip they would drive me to a neurologist. When we got back from our trip that Saturday night, they put me to bed. However that night I woke in the middle of the night screaming with pain. I immediately texted my team and one of my teammates generously came and drove me to the ER. After they finally scanned me, the doctors were amazed to see the abnormality. They diagnosed me with Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis, which was a blood clot extending through four major veins in my brain. They immediately rushed me to the stroke and neurosurgery center of Brigham and Women’s Hospital where I was monitored. My team of doctors were amazed that I did not have a major stroke and suffered no neurological injury.

I was so confused on how a young healthy athlete could have clotting, especially to the severity that I had. The doctors explained that venous clots are actually more common in athletes than people think. For me the clots formed by the combination of being dehydrated, constant blows to the head with a soccer ball, taking oral contraceptives, and being stationary for long periods of time when traveling on the team bus. They said the terrible headache I felt that first day could have been when the clot was just forming, and it grew all that week following when I continued to travel, play, take my medicine, and remained dehydrated. I was shocked that even the doctors at the ER never considered a blood clot, and I was thankful that I advocated for myself and went back that third time even when I was told I was fine.

At Brigham I was treated with blood thinners, to prevent the existing clot from growing, starting with IV Heparin. Then I was bridged to Lovanox shots and began taking Coumadin pills. I stayed at the hospital for a few days. When I was released, the first thing I did was go with my family to my school’s soccer field where I was able to watch my team win their first playoff game. My team’s playoff experience was an amazing distraction for all of the crazy health stuff that was going on in my life. Although I wanted to play, I learned to accept a new team role as someone on the sidelines who was there to cheer and motivate my teammates. My team reached our goal and won our conference as Northeast 10 Champions, advancing to the NCAA tournament. I was lucky to be healthy enough to go with my team to the NCAAs; even though I had to get my blood tested when I was traveling to monitor how my blood was clotting.

 Being on blood thinners as a college student was difficult; I went from being a tough and active athlete, to wearing a medical alert bracelet and being extremely careful of even the smallest cuts or bruises in fear of internal bleeding. I felt as if I was a 19 year old trapped in a 95 year old’s body. The months followed included blood tests every few days, frequent doctor’s appointments and scans, and a lot of missed school work to make up. I had a lot going on at the time; I was trying to balance my new medical life with my life as a college student. I struggled with keeping up with the school while dealing with this head trauma. I am thankful however for the Academic Services team at my school for helping me through this time. I am also continually grateful some incredible teammates and friends who drove me around to these doctor appointments and who were there for me and supported me emotionally. By February my clots were almost gone and I was taken off Coumadin and switched to Aspirin as a blood thinner, meaning it was safe to start to do light play without contact. My eye remained on the prize; I wanted to do whatever I could to get back on the field. My neurologist had since also banned me from heavy lifting in fear of putting too much pressure on my blood. Despite these adjustments I was happy to be on the road to recovery and expected no more health surprises. 

However, in early 2017, I noticed that I was still having bad throbbing headaches, dizziness and started to notice some hearing abnormalities. I heard a whooshing sound that I found was rhythmic with my heartbeat called pulsatile tinnitus. I thought it was nothing, maybe a side effect from the Aspirin therapy or something. This sound was loud and agonizing; it was the sound of my pulse in my ear all the time. I always relate the maddening feeling to the story “Tell Tale Heart.” When the symptoms worsened, I informed my neurologist and he advised me to get an MRI just to be safe.

A few days later I was taking an exam in my chemistry class at Stonehill when my phone buzzed on my desk and my neurologist’s number popped up. Generously, my professor allowed me to take my doctors call. He told me that my scan was again abnormal, and this time they found something called Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas. These are very rare lesions around the brain that are sometimes linked with blood clots. My neurologist explained that there is a lot about fistulas that are unknown; he said that fistulas are abnormal blood vessel connections between a vein and an artery. My clot was so large and clotted so many veins, that my brain tried to compensate for the loss of blood to those areas by forming channels from my arteries to the veins that needed blood flow. These can be very dangerous and can cause bleeding or stroke in the brain.

There are two possibilities for these lesions: that they could either dissipate or they could grow. Mine unfortunately grew around my brain, and became larger as more abnormal vessels were constantly being recruited. In Boston and New York I met with several of the best neurosurgeons in the country. On May 24,^th2017 at NYU Langone Hospital, I had my first embolization, which is an endovascular neurosurgery to close off the abnormal vessels around the left side of my brain. Unfortunately, my surgeon said that my legion grew to be a “monster” and I had to have more treatments done. I had my second surgery on July 7^th 2017 to close off more vessels on the left side and to stop the ones that were extending to my right side. There may be more treatments to come, but my neurosurgeon is very supportive on getting me back to my normal life, which also means being able to be active and to play soccer.

The thought of playing again and getting back to the sport I love has definitely given me hope and motivated me. It has truly helped me stay focused on my recovery.  This road to recovery has been very long and challenging but I am beyond thankful for my family and friends who have supported me through this entire experience. I am grateful for Stonehill College’s Athletic Department, Health Services and Academic Services, which have all helped me adjust to each new obstacle. A big thank you to those teammates and friends in particular who made this year so much easier for me; you’ve held my hand through pain and tough news, came to doctors appointments and emergency room visits, and comforted me after surgery; I don’t know where I would be without your love and support. 

Although it has been beyond challenging to sit out and not be able to play the sport that I love, I am working hard to reach my goal of being able to play next season. My team of doctors at NYU are extremely supportive and understand that part of getting me back to my normal life includes being an athlete. I am so excited to say that my neurosurgeon has finally cleared me to play for the fall 2017 season. There is still a lot of recovering to do, and a lot of training adjustments to be made before next season. It is going to be challenging, with more obstacles to come, but I am determined to train hard and put in the work so I can step on that field as soon as I can.

 I am grateful for Team Stop the Clot and the National Blood Clot Alliance for constantly sharing survivor stories of athletes and inspiring other athletes like me to work hard to get back to the sports we love. Blood clots can happen to anyone of any age and any activity level, it is important to ask your doctor about your own risks for dangerous clotting, and to be informed on the ways to maintain a healthy life style. For athletes, things that can make our blood more likely to clot are dehydration, remaining stationary on long bus rides, and hormonal medications like oral contraceptives. The most common places for Deep Vein Thrombosis (blood clots) are in the legs and in the lungs, but can also be found in the arms or in the brain. Time is a big factor in treating clots as larger clots can sometimes come with more dangerous and life threatening complications like mine did. Every clotting experience is different so it is important to be well informed.

I have faced many obstacles this year, but am extremely grateful for the blessings as well. Both Dural Fistulas and Blood Clots in the Brain can be extremely dangerous and they often result in stroke, bleeding, and neurological damage; I was very lucky not to have experienced these side effects. There have been a lot of questions by doctors in both Boston and New York about if I would ever be able to play collegiate soccer again, or any contact sport for that matter, but like my soccer team last season, I am determined to prove everyone wrong and to shock the nation. This experience has taught me a lot, but most importantly it has reminded me of the key lessons that we are all taught as young athletes; to always listen to your body and to self-advocate, to appreciate and reciprocate the support of your teammates, to work hard and stay positive, to always keep your eye on the prize, and to never ever give up."

You cannot help but to wish Maddie the best of luck in her recovery and return to the sport she loves...She will be back BETTER THAN EVER!

Blood Clot Survivors CAN DO ANYTHING!

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

July Athlete of the Month

Since we are now in the middle of summer it is time to go big...

Big in Outdoor Fun...

Big in Training... Personally looking to improve on my result from Ironman 70.3 Wisconsin at the Ironman 70.3 Ohio...

Big in Playing with my boys...

Big in Spreading Awareness about Blood Clots and Blood Clotting Disorders by getting CLOT BUSTER #StopTheClot polka-dots shipped around the world...

Big in the feature of this month's athlete of the month...

It does not get any bigger than an Olympic Athlete...

Please read on and learn about KATIE HOFF's experience with blood clots as published on link below through STOPTHECLOT.org

https://www.stoptheclot.org/katie-hoffs-blood-clot-story.htm

Blood Clots can happen to anyone... even Olympic caliber athletes... It will always blow my mind...

Be on the lookout for CLOT BUSTER #StopTheClot polka-dots around you.. 2017 is shaping to be a record year for sales of polka-dot gear and I could not be more excited.  People out there PROUDLY wearing their polka-dots to celebrate that THEY ARE SURVIVORS or perhaps simply wearing the polka-dots to celebrate someone they know who is a survivor which in turns helps us spread awareness.

If you want your very own please go ahead an order through this blog and I will personally will process your order but I will not lick your envelope closed... I have industrial tape for that.

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

CLOT BUSTER #StopTheClot polka-dots in Madison, Wisconsin...

Two weeks ago I raced in my CLOT BUSTER #StopTheClot polka-dots in Madison, Wisconsin...

Wonderful opportunity to get the #StopTheClot message out there.

Got the chance to meet several folks who learned about the polka-dots and why they exist.

But above all, connected with Clot Survivors which always erases the pain of finishing this brutal event because it is likely that we will have more polka-dots racing in the future!

So as the recovery continues ahead of my next challenge at the of July keep an eye out for polka-dotted people racing alongside you... If you see any greet them because they overcame a monumental challenge... Surviving Blood Clots...

June Athlete of the Month

At last summer is here and the CLOT BUSTER #StopTheClot polka-dots are free to race far and wide...!

Very excited about all the places the CLOT BUSTER #StopTheClot polka-dots are getting shipped to... Many blood clot Survivors and friends are survivors are ready to help us spread the word about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.  While also celebrating Survival and being able to Overcome!

One of those Survivors is GAIL AVEDANO our June Athlete of the Month.  Poor Gail was inquiring about the polka-dot gear and little that she know she was going to be "interviewed" so that she could share with all of us her story of survival.

We are very lucky that she is willing to share her story as ANY OF US, regardless of age - race - physical condition, can suffer from this silent killer.  We have to always be aware of the signs and symptoms because it could saver your life.

Get reading and be inspired this summer to not ever give up if you are battling to overcome... because a come back to normal or almost normal is always within reach...

1)  What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it? 
I primarily do three different activities: running, Bikram Yoga, and walking my two dogs. I'm a huge proponent of cross training and find that these activities complement each other. They all help keep me sane in different ways. 

2)  How did you get started in that sport? 
In terms of running, I completed my first half marathon in 2007--intending to walk the whole thing. The day of the race, I got so caught up in the excitement that I ended up running parts of it and from then on, I was hooked. My story is the typical "mom runner" story. My three kids were young when I started running and running gave me the alone time I needed while also helping me to de-stress. I'm certain that running made me a better mom. I also learned early on that I needed to be signed up for an upcoming race in order to have motivation to run. That, for me was key.

3)  What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve?(Long bike ride, some race coming up or that you did) 
As of January this year, I've completed a half marathon in all fifty states. It took me ten years to do it, but it was a wonderful goal that kept me focused on my workouts and gave me a great reason to meet up with my best friend from college a few times a year. She and I completed the goal together and it was great to have her support and motivation through it all. Now I sign up for races I consider "fun" and don't care what state they are in. I'm still managing to keep my race calendar full and I'm looking forward to completing the Portland (full) Marathon in October.

4)  Tells about your clotting episode.  Are you on blood thinners now? How long were you out of commission? 
I'm on Xarelto after a trip to the emergency room on December 31, 2016. For about a month, I had a dull, nagging pain along my lower right side and was certain that I had pulled a muscle. After getting a massage, the pain subsided--confirming (I thought) that my pain was muscular. During the holiday break, I found that it hurt to lie flat on my back when I tried to go to sleep and the pain was worse when I took a deep breath. At no point would I say I had shortness of breath, though. I also never had leg pain so I'm pretty sure my clot did not start there.

The night of December 30th, I went to bed and could not get comfortable. The pain increased to the point where it was unbearable so I went to the emergency room--certain that I was having a gall bladder attack or something similar. I was shocked to learn that I had a clot that took up a third of my lower right lung. I was in the hospital for two days and took a week off of work, but I never had to be on supplemental oxygen. I credit my running and regular yoga practice for having strong lungs that could withstand the blockage. A sonogram on my heart showed no damage, and I was cleared to return to normal activities very quickly.

5)  When were you able to get back into your activity?  How did it feel that first time?
My 50th state half marathon was scheduled to take place less than three weeks after my emergency room visit and there was no way I wanted to give up my week-long trip to Hawaii. My doctor thought I was a bit overzealous, but said I could do the race if I walked most of it and didn't overexert myself. So, my last state race was--on one hand--a huge bummer because I had to do it so slowly, but--on the other hand--a huge relief and celebration that I was physically able to do it. I describe that race on my blog: https://halfsandhikes.wordpress.com/2017/01/28/aloha-series-50th-state/

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 look forward to wearing my new Clot Buster's hat in all of my upcoming races, but my favorite gear would have to be my Garmin Vivoactive HR+. Not only does it have a GPS tracker, but it also tracks my heart rate--something I never cared about before but now do.

7)  How much are you getting out doing your sport?  (Everyday you do some training, 2, 3, 4 times per week) 
Every day I either run, walk, or go to a Bikram Yoga class. I would say I generally run three times a week.

8)   What is your favorite food?  Either generally or after a workout.  For me there is nothing better than a Chipotle Burrito... 
My favorite post-race meal is a cheeseburger, fries, and a beer. In normal life, though, I try to eat much healthier than that.

9)  If you could go some place to visit and explore, where would like to go? 
I live in Utah, which has the most amazing hiking options. I could explore forever in my own backyard and never see it all. 

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. 
I would tell them to ask as many questions as they can and seek out information from reliable sources. I am lucky because my doctor's wife went through a very similar experience to mine and is now on anti-coagulants for life because she had two clotting episodes. I can't begin to tell you how understanding and helpful that made my doctor when it came to my situation. 

I also know, from reading so many stories, that everyone is different and people have different side effects. Shortness of breath and anxiety are common symptoms, but I haven't experienced either. I have, however, noticed that my heart rate spikes pretty quickly and I feel like I have to be careful about that. I started getting back into running by walking. I also know I will probably never get anohter sub two-hour time, but that's okay. Now, five months out, I am still taking walking breaks during my runs. I'm staying active, though, and that is helping to prevent future clots. Staying active also helps to strengthen my heart and lungs, and the fact that I was already in good physical condition when I got a blood clot is why I recovered so quickly.

My concern now is in looking ahead. I'm pretty sure my clot was caused by being on birth control pills so I now know any hormone replacement therapy is out of the question for me. I'm also pretty sure that means I will only have to be on an anti-coagulant for a year (my doctor's recommendation) since I can identify a known cause. I haven't had blood tests, though, to identify any clotting abnormalities in my blood and I plan to have those done when I can. Finding out I have Factor V Leiden, for example, might prompt me to be on an anti-coagulant for life.

I share the fear that others have regarding medication. I'm scared to be on it because of a potential bleeding episode and I'm scared to be off of it for fear I will develop another pulmonary embolism. You can't live your life in fear though, and you can only control so much. No matter what, I'll keep living one day at a time and putting one foot in front of the other on as many race courses as I can reasonably afford. 

How about that..?!?!? 50 Half-Marathons and one in each of the 50 States is an incredible feat.  Talk about dedication...

Certainly Gail is overcoming the challenges of blood clots with a remarkable positive attitude that is for sure contagious.  You can't stop her and blood clots can't even slow here down... There is a big world out there and probably a Half-Marathon available in every country... Never to late to start on a new goal...!

Here is hoping that I get the chance to share in a post-race cheeseburger and fries with Gail as I attempt to keep up with that energy and dedication.

Enjoy the Summer coming up!

If you see Clot Buster #StopTheClot polka-dots out there say hello and ask about their story.  If nothing else remember that StopTheClot.org is out there as a resource for you to learn about blood clots and be aware.

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster