I wanted to participate in this year's Race to Stop the Clot FUN RUN as a way to spread awareness about blood clots and try to raise money for the National Blood Clot Alliance.
In April 2022 I suffered multiple blood clots in my leg, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), as well as a life-threatening saddle pulmonary embolism (PE; blood clots in my lungs/pulmonary artery). I'm incredibly grateful for a medical team that listened to my concerns and got me the treatment I needed right away -- definitely always listen to your body when you feel like there is something wrong! The first few months were tough while I was recovering both physically and emotionally. My lungs were healing and I would get out of breath walking to campus or doing any sort of physical activity. It was stressful not knowing how far I should push myself while the clots were still present and getting accustomed to living day-to-day on anticoagulants/blood thinners that put me at risk for excessive bleeding.
I am immensely grateful that my doctor recommended a support group run by the National Blood Clot Alliance where I was able to hear about other people's experiences, learn how to navigate life with blood clots, and be encouraged by fellow survivors. The National Blood Clot Alliance has also hosted several PEP Talks ("Patients Educating Patients") that have provided great information on topics ranging from the risk of blood clots for women throughout their life cycle, discussing different anticoagulant options, and learning about different COVID-19 treatments for patients on anticoagulants. I definitely believe the National Blood Clot Alliance was a vital component of my recovery and will continue to be important for me as a patient with a blood clotting disorder (Prothrombin Factor II gene mutation).
To learn more about risk factors, symptoms, and prevention for blood clots, visit stoptheclot.org. Thank you so much for your support... and please don't forget to send this page to any friends you think might be interested in donating!
