Linking Heart Disease and Blood Donation

As a blood recipient and an advocate for blood donation, I am always concerned about the general health of everyone, especially family members. During my reign as Mrs. Virginia International 2011, I will continue my efforts with an unwavering passion and commitment while continuing to support the national platform of Go Red for Women with the American Heart Association.

Some have already asked how are they even related. And quite simply, prior to donating blood, you must have your blood pressure checked (among other vital signs) and it can determine if you are or are not a healthy donor. In the larger picture, heart disease has had an unwelcome long-term relationship with my family.

My maternal grandfather, Pop Pop, underwent quadruple heart bypass surgery; Aunt Lenoire had a stroke at the age of 37; my mother regulates her blood pressure with medication; great-grandfather, Pop (pictured at right), had several strokes before passing - and the family list continues.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, and it's a leading cause of heath issues in my family - Monitoring cholesterol, blood pressure, physical activity and overall health are important in daily life. Just like knowing the warning signs of a heart attack or stroke. Because we are aware of the signs, doesn't mean that you are - so here are the signals you should be aware of:

Heart Attack

-Chest discomfort(usually in the center of the chest lasting more than a few mins)
-Discomfort or pain in other areas of the upper body (arm(s), back, neck, jaw)
-Shortness of breath (with or without chest pain)
-Women are more likely to experience shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back/jaw pain

Stroke

-Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially in one side of the body
-Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
-Sudden trouble seeing with one or both eyes
-Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
-Sudden severe headache with no known cause


It's important to note that these are just some of the warning signs, and you may or may not experience any one of these symptoms. They can be just as unique as the individual.

Heart disease is something that will continue to affect my family and we will continue to fight it through healthy living, education and medical advice. By treating heart disease as a family, we are ensuring that we will be around for generations to come and that everyone will benefit from the experiences.

Heart disease doesn't have to stop life in it's tracks if you are prepared and educated. Take the time to review your family history and ask your doctor about your risks. Your family needs you around for a long time and with a healthy heart, you can keep donating blood to keep me and many others around just as long.