March Athlete of the Month

WELCOME TO MARCH

BLOOD CLOT AWARENESS MONTH

Let's CLIMB FOR CLOTS!

Come on and join me to make a difference.  Climb more than me in March and get your choice of a performance CLOT BUSTER #StopTheClot polka-dots Trucker Hat or Visor courtesy of this Clot Buster! Let's CLIMB ON!

https://secure.qgiv.com/event/climbforclots2018/

March is very special month to spread even more awareness about blood clots and blood clotting disorders.

Also March is very special because we continue to celebrate ALL BLOOD CLOT SURVIVORS and remember those we lost along the way.  We should not have to EVER lose anyone so that is why this effort continues to make this condition preventable every time.

As crazy as it sounds blood clots are also linked to INSPIRATION TO OVERCOME.  This is the positive side of having blood clots.  The incredible will to beat this challenge deserves all of our admiration.  I am so lucky to have the opportunity to share these personal accounts with you every month.  Every single one of them provides me with a spark to overcome.

This month MICHELLE M. is sharing her personal experience with us.  THANK YOU Michelle for your willingness to share your story.  Your experience will resonate with someone who is need of answers and guidance.  Every word below has the power to provide someone that spark that can and will provide hope to get them through the challenges of a clotting incident.  READ ON...

What is you sport/activity of choice? Why do you enjoy it?
How did you get started in that sport?
This has changed back and forth between my “story” and an injury, but it has always been running.  I have always struggled with my weight and after the birth of both my children it became clear that I needed more than just nutrition.  I started taking a spin class at my gym and learned that I really liked it.  The rush was like no other and the calorie burn was amazing.  That obsession grew.  Within a few months I was starting to run short distances on the treadmill and learning that running was an even bigger “high” for me than spinning.  It didn’t take me long to begin racing.  I started out with a biathlon, a few 5k’s and then it grew from there.  I also fell in love with trail running.  I wasn’t very fast but being able to conquer the trails and terrain was a bigger accomplishment for me than the actual speed.  Before I knew it, I had signed up for my first marathon.  I would plan family camping trips around races and they were extremely supportive of my passion.  I was a runner and enjoyed my time alone and strength that it gave me.

What is the latest milestone you achieved or plan to achieve?
Well, this has been altered due to my health issues.  I had major hip surgery in September 2017 and was told I should NOT run again until I have a full hip replacement (hopefully in 7 years).  My hip has never been shaped “normal” due to being born with some dysplasia but running on it like I did created even more issues.  So, today 4 months post major hip surgery, my accomplishment is making it to spin class 2 times a week and hoping to sneak in an extra from time to time.  

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

No one’s clotting episode is “normal” now that I have learned about PE’s and mine was far from the normal.  I had suffered for about 18 months with abdominal pain.  I took many trips to the doctor, ER, urgent care, etc.  I had been tested for gallbladder issues (which they ultimately removed), possible appendix attacks, and the list goes on.  I had been pushed around, looked at like a drug user just looking to get pain pills, but never got any answers.  Finally, in May of 2016, I went into the ER for severe pain and they found a large fibroid had formed on my uterus.  I followed up with the OB/GYN and was on the operating table less than 30 days later.  Due to the size of the fibroid, I would have to have a full cut abdominal hysterectomy.  This was considered a major surgery and would be about an 6-8-week recovery.  I had the surgery, all was fine, uterus was removed, and the healing began.  About 10 days post op, I woke up and felt like I was getting a cold or the flu.  I was achy, clammy and just felt off.  I went in to see my doctor and he said not to worry, it was probably just a virus and it would pass.  Day by day, the aches got worse, I could barely get up from the couch.  I hurt from the tips of my toes to the top of my head.  I went to see my general practitioner and told him how I felt.  He advised me that I had had major surgery, and this was just a part of the recovery.  I explained I felt different, but I really couldn’t pin point what that feeling was.  During the exam, the doctor noted a dry cough.  In addition to lab work, he ordered a chest x-ray to make sure the cough wasn’t anything serious.

I wasn’t home from this appointment for more than an hour and the nurse called and said I had pneumonia and the doctor would be treating me with antibiotics and steroids.  I was blown away.  I didn’t have any true symptoms of pneumonia.  How could this be?  The next morning, it was a Saturday, my doctor called me.  This seemed odd because number 1 it was a Saturday morning and 2 he NEVER calls himself.  He explained that the x-ray found a spot on my right lung and even though they were not 100% sure it looked to be pneumonia and I should start that treatment, which I did. He also mentioned that my blood work showed some elevated numbers but was very vague about those and didn’t provide a lot of details.  Everything was blown off to being a part of the recovery process. 

By Sunday, I felt great!  My aches were minimal, I had energy again and even threw an impromptu pool party.  I was finally getting better and was ecstatic.  That feeling lasted until Tuesday morning and then I hit a wall again (the steroids had worn off).  The aches, the lethargy and just plain feeling of being “off” had returned.  I called the doctor and he once again, blew me off.  He told me I needed to see a specialist because I probably had the onset of arthritis. 

By Tuesday afternoon, I was in tears and felt lost.  Was I losing my mind?  What was wrong with me? I called a patient rep at our local health system and asked for help.  She couldn’t do anything but sympathize with my “pain”.  By Wednesday morning I called my OBGYN and learned he was on vacation.  Finally, after getting to his nurse, I spoke with another OBGYN and he explained that it sounded like my pneumonia had gotten bad and I probably needed to be admitted.  He got me into see a pulmonary doctor that afternoon (which was a miracle). 

The pulmonary doctor was very thorough and I really thought this was just another blow off.  I took my mom with me as my husband was at work and it didn’t take long to see the x-ray up on the screen and him to explain that he was convinced it was something more.  He sent me to the hospital where I learned very quickly that the CT Scan had discovered multiple clots in both lungs and a large infarction on my right lung along with pleurisy.  I was admitted immediately.

After a whirlwind admittance, a lot of doctors and a lot of nurses it was decided that because I was just about 4 weeks post op with a large abdominal incision, choosing the right thinner was imperative.  I was put on Eliquis due to its mild side affects and hopes that there would be less chance of bleeding issues.  I left the hospital 2 days later, lost, confused and angry.  Why had this happened to me and how do I move on?  No one could explain how it happened, why it happened and why it took so long to find. I had lost all faith in medicine and didn’t know which way o turn. I was instructed to stay on Eliquis for 6 months, be checked by my GP and good luck!

When were you able to get back into your activity?  How did it feel that first time?  
The first few weeks after my PE diagnosis, it took everything I had to just walk around the block.  Living in the Midwest and it being July, the humidity played havoc on my healing lungs, so my process was slow. I was out of work a complete 12 weeks due to healing of both the hysterectomy and the PE’s.  By fall I was ready to run.  That first run, I laughed, and I cried.  It felt amazing and I had a feeling of being blessed to just be alive and able to get back to my sport.  

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…
Today my favorite piece of gear is my polka dot running shirt paired with my old (and falling apart) Under Armor capris running tights and my spin shoes.  

How much are you getting out doing your sport?  (Everyday you do some training, 2, 3, 4 times per week)
Part of my PE recovery included learning the condition of my hip and the limitations that were included in that so, I have had to rediscover my passion for biking to preserve my hip.  Right now, I’m at the gym 2 – 3 times a week attending a spin class and strengthening my hip.  

What is your favorite food?  Either generally or after a workout.  For me there is nothing better than a Chipotle Burrito...
My favorite food is pizza.  I love pizza in all its many forms.  My favorite is fresh tomatoes, basil and mozzarella but am learning to make my own cauliflower crusts and use my own ingredients.  It’s a work in progress, but I’m getting close to perfecting my process.  Add some homemade sauce and a nice glass of red wine and I’m a happy camper.

If you could go some place to visit and explore, where would like to go?
I’m not a big traveler, but if I could go anywhere internationally it would be Italy.  Pizza and wine 😊 

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.
If I could tell anyone anything about my clotting episode is find a solid support system and depend on it.  If I didn’t have my husband and my mom to lean on, I’m not sure where I would be.  This is a disorder that is hard for others to understand because you cannot “see it” by looking at someone.  If you are lucky enough to survive the clots, find a way to embrace that.  There will be a number of “after effects” that follow and I’m about 18 months into my recovery and I still have a lot to learn.  I have learned that many of the issues I am facing are related to what is called PTSD.  I didn’t get in a terrible accident, I didn’t fight in combat, but I have been diagnosed with a disorder that will forever live within my subconscious and some days it haunts me more than others.  Physically, I’m clear of clots.  My lungs are healed and there was never a specific place identified that the clot came from. I’m still working through the mental side of things and I don’t think I will ever be 100% but I can tell you that I wake up every day and hope that I can help one person get through their day as a survivor.  This is a condition that I do not wish upon anyone but today as I write this, I am a changed person and although some days I don’t like that person, other days I am so very proud of the obstacles I have overcome, and I cannot wait to see who I will become.

We are all looking forward to see who you will become Michelle as you continue to navigate the challenges of the survival from your clotting incident.  Never Stop trying to overcome.  I am looking forward some day to share in a slice (or two or there... in case you did not know I can eat...) of your home made pizza pie!  I will be sure to bring the best vino I can get my hands on...

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

February Athlete of the Month

Here we go into the second month of the year and the cold still around.

The struggle for me continues but I must overcome as many people is doing right now... I hear you..."Suck it cup-cake!"

For sure Blood Clots Survivors overcome challenges everyday more than you can imagine.  Their inspiration and example is with me everyday.  As we continue to progress in 2018 and we approach March which BLOOD CLOT AWARENESS MONTH I wanted to draw your attention to the following event for your consideration.  Please check out the link below and if you have it in you please plan on participating and let's see who can climb the most...I hope to get my climbing legs going against yours!

https://secure.qgiv.com/event/climbforclots2018/

From the STOPTHECLOT.org website I found the story I am featuring below as a personal experience story that brings with it a message of awareness that we should all take the time to read.  Thank You Cristal for sharing your story which can and will provide guidance to others trying to figure out the challenges of their own clotting incident.

My Strained Muscle was a Blood Clot: Cristal’s Story

I am a female, in my mid-twenties, and I am very active. I experienced calf pain for about two weeks, which I attributed to a strain from uphill running, and other cardiovascular and weight lifting workouts. Towards the end of two weeks, the pain in my right calf was to the point where I couldn’t ignore it, and I found myself trying to prop my leg up under my desk. The pain was worse when I was sitting down, and it felt better when I started to run. I decided to pop into a nearby physical therapist’s office. I explained my symptoms, and the doctor recommended a few stretches. In hindsight, I did not experience what I would call typical symptoms of a blood clot. My leg pain wasn’t excruciating, but more of an annoyance, and I didn’t have any redness or swelling.

One morning, after a run, I sat down at my desk and noticed my back had a dull ache near the middle and right side of my spine. I thought I needed to drink more water. The pain gradually worsened throughout the day. By the end of the day, I decided to cancel my afternoon plans, and go lie down. By 8:00 p.m. my back pain had reached noticeable discomfort. By 10:00 p.m., I realized I was altering my breathing to not have to take full, deep, breaths, which were painful. I decided it was time to go to the ER. Going to the emergency room was not my usual reaction, and even though I still didn’t except anything serious, I figured if it hurt to breathe, it was better to err on the side of caution and get it checked out.

Once the doctor in the ER examined me, it was determined that I had a strained muscle from my workouts, and the discharge process was started. I’m not a dramatic person, but I know my pain tolerance is high enough to handle a pulled muscle, and I knew that wasn’t what I was experiencing. Thank God I pushed back on the ER doctor, and asked to speak to her boss.

A second doctor came in and said if we wanted to err on the side of caution, we could do a D-dimer blood test to check for increased clotting factors in my blood. I hate needles, but I knew at least my peace of mind would be worth taking the test. Shortly after the test, the doctor came in and said they suspected a blood clot, and I was taken for an immediate CT scan. The scan showed I had not one, but two massive clots in both my right and left lungs.

They suspected the pain in my calf was a DVT that travelled up my right leg, and split into both my right and left lung. The situation changed immediately, and I was told to minimize my movements, when just 12 hours ago I was in the middle of running five miles. Now, I was being told that I couldn’t even walk down the hall to go to the bathroom. The doctors brought me up to the intensive care unity (ICU) and started me on a heparin drip. That night they discharged me with a prescription for a new oral anticoagulant, which worked very well for me.

After the fact, we did several blood tests to determine the suspected cause of the clot. I had not traveled or had a recent surgery, and I do not remain stationary for long periods of the day. I am young, active, and healthy. I did not test positive for any genetic causes, and my family does not have a history of clots. I was on estrogen-based birth control pills for 8-10 years without any prior issues, but given that my particular birth control has been linked to blood clots, I determined that this was most likely the cause. My hematologist was adamant I never get back on a birth control containing estrogen.

After my experience, I called the physical therapist who first examined me, to let him know what happened, in hopes that he can help someone else in the future. I’m so thankful I listened to my body, when I knew something was off. I’m also very thankful to have stood up for myself and questioned the ER doctors about my situation. I hope my experience can help others.

BLOOD CLOT SURVIVORS CAN DO ANYTHING!

Cristal is overcoming the challenges and so can you.

Never stop trying.

I will see you out there in the CLOT BUSTER #STOPTHECLOT polka-dots spreading awareness and celebrating all blood clot survivors. 

Thank you for reading,

The Clot Buster

January Athlete of the Month

Another year begins...

Do you have any resolutions?

What are you looking to accomplish this year?

One goal?

Multiple Goals?

What are you going to do to accomplish whatever is you are looking to accomplish?

One of the goals I have for myself is to continue to CELEBRATE ALL BLOOD CLOT SURVIVORS who are doing everything that the can to overcome the challenges of their clotting incident.

I want to celebrate these folks because their dedication and taking action end up INSPIRING US ALL. 

2018 will be another interesting year... it already started challenging me with this weather for instance.. Who knows what else the next 360 days will bring along.  One thing I know is that I have the power of inspiring stories from clot survivors to keep my perspective grounded and moving forward...

One story that can get our year started down the right path comes to us from WES STUMBAUGH who wants to share his story because he knows that it can help others find a way to overcome the obstacles blood clotting incidents can cause.

Read on...

"There is so much power in sharing your story…

My name is Wes and I live in Spokane, Washington. 2017 started off just like any other year for me. Resolutions were made to get into better shape, be a better husband, and spend more time with my two boys. February came and a friend of mine challenged me to climb Mt. St. Helens in August. I figured it was an easily attainable goal. Permits became available in February and they filled up fast so we needed to get them right away. I quickly made the decision to hike this mountain and was excited.

I was introduced to cycling in 2015 through a friend of mine in Spokane. I instantly enjoyed it and was hooked. Being outside, with the wind in your face, turned out to be a great outlet for me. This year, 2017, I was planning on putting thousands more miles on the road bike and had the ambitious goal to ride in a few century rides around the area. In addition, I began commuting 20 miles round trip to work a few times a week. Throughout the day, I would walk up 30-45 floors at work. I was feeling great and was well on my way to hiking Mt. St. Helens.

The beginning of April came and I noticed some soreness in my right calf. It seemed to hurt more when I was climbing the stairs. I instantly wrote it off in my head as muscle pain, as it felt normal, so I did not think anything of it. After a few days, the pain persisted and I began to take notice. A week later I noticed an area on my calf turning red and there was some swelling. My calf and ankles would swell up a little from time to time in that leg, as I had ACL surgery in 2009, when I tore it playing rec league basketball. It didn’t really become alarming to me until the pain began to interfere with my ability to ride to work. When I was pedaling, or when I laid down to go to bed, my calf would not stop throbbing. Easter weekend came and I decided to go to Urgent Care (there may have been a little urging from my wife). The doctor on duty took a look at my calf and told me to head straight to the ER. Ultrasounds were done on my right leg and I was informed that I had a few small blood clots causing the irritation and swelling. They put me on Eliquis and advised me to follow up with my primary care doctor within the following two weeks.

I need to give kudos to my primary care doctor as he thought that this event needed to be checked out further, as this was an unprovoked clot. He referred me to a hematologist as he just wanted to be cautious and make sure this was a one-time event or if there was something else going on.  At this time, I had no knowledge of any family history related to a blood clotting disorder. The only family event I was aware of was that my grandfather had died of a heart attack at age 58. The hematologist ran quite a few different blood tests and called me with my results. I was floored with what she told me. My tests came back positive for Factor V Leiden and two R506Q mutations were identified (homozygote). She strongly advised me to stay on blood thinners and told me that if I had two gene mutations, then she was pretty certain my parents each had one copy of the gene. Because of that, she also encouraged me to have my parents and my sister tested. Throughout the next few months, my family had tests done and it turns out each one of us has Factor V Leiden. Upon further investigation regarding my grandfather, it appears the heart attack that killed him came from a blood clot to the heart. It was an eye opening experience for our whole family to say the least.

My world slowed down a bit after I found out the news. I was nervous about exercising while on blood thinners and I stopped climbing the stairs at work and didn’t want get on my bike for about a month. It was during that time that I found this blog and began reading all the inspiring stories about how each person featured in this blog shared their story and overcame blood clots. Each person you read about set a goal and accomplished it.  I found that so inspiring. I began to work up the courage to accomplish the goal that I set back in February… to climb Mt. St. Helens. The training continued. I was able to get back on the bike and I eased back into long rides. I went back to climbing flights of stairs at work and slowly regained the confidence to push forward with this goal. August 11, 2017 I was able to make it to the top of Mt. St. Helens and it felt so good. It wasn’t the tallest mountain in the world, but it turned into a bigger feeling of accomplishment than I was ever expecting. The feeling was amazing to not give up when a setback arose, and finish a goal that I set my mind to earlier in the year before this obstacle came up.

This next year, with the clotting episode behind me, I am looking forward to setting a few cycling goals for 2018. I have signed up for the Coeur d’Fondo (116 miles) next September and am planning on signing up for the popular Seattle to Portland ride (204 miles) in July when registration becomes available. I am looking forward to sporting the clot buster gear at these events as well!" 

For sure we will see you sporting the CLOT BUSTER #StopTheClot polka-dots during your upcoming events... I am looking forward to see pictures of you in action all over the West Coast!

So glad to have this story to get 2018 started.

THANK YOU once again to Wes for his willingness to share.

NEVER STOP as long as you take it one day at the time and overcome.  Anything is possible for those who believe!

Thanks for reading,

The Clot Buster

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Here is hoping that your 2018

is full of 

CLOT BUSTER #StopTheClot POLKA-DOTS!

Stay tuned for exciting news and promos to celebrate the 10th year of this blog running...

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