Journal entry by Nathan Helzer —
It has been just over 6 weeks since I had my cardiac arrest. It's been about 4.5 weeks since I had my defibrillator installed. Danielle and I have been home for roughly 4 weeks. To say it has been an interesting 6 weeks is an understatement. But...here we are!
I am about half way done with cardiac rehab and today I went back to work for 1/2 days. It was refreshing to talk with cardiac rehab about my heart capacity and that my heart is functioning as well if not better than the average 40 year old male. My heart rate is coming down quickly after working out, which they said was a good sign as well. It was great to be back at GISH today....to see staff and students. I was able to interact with kids in the hallways, visit teachers in their classrooms, and support students in my office.
I know that this transition will still take time, and there will times I'm going to need my butt kicked so I slow down. I have a lot of people reminding me to take it slow, and I feel like I have done a pretty good job of resting and relaxing. I don't know....Danielle may say differently.
I want to just say thank you again for all of those who have been thinking about us, praying for us, supporting us through venmo, etc. It has been really overwhelming to have the support that I have, so thank you so much! We will continue updates on big milestones but please know I am on my way to healthier, more balanced me!
Lastly, I have attached some pictures from my first day of school. Take note the second picture was taken after I came home from the 1/2 day. Clearly the transition will take some time 😏
I am about half way done with cardiac rehab and today I went back to work for 1/2 days. It was refreshing to talk with cardiac rehab about my heart capacity and that my heart is functioning as well if not better than the average 40 year old male. My heart rate is coming down quickly after working out, which they said was a good sign as well. It was great to be back at GISH today....to see staff and students. I was able to interact with kids in the hallways, visit teachers in their classrooms, and support students in my office.
I know that this transition will still take time, and there will times I'm going to need my butt kicked so I slow down. I have a lot of people reminding me to take it slow, and I feel like I have done a pretty good job of resting and relaxing. I don't know....Danielle may say differently.
I want to just say thank you again for all of those who have been thinking about us, praying for us, supporting us through venmo, etc. It has been really overwhelming to have the support that I have, so thank you so much! We will continue updates on big milestones but please know I am on my way to healthier, more balanced me!
Lastly, I have attached some pictures from my first day of school. Take note the second picture was taken after I came home from the 1/2 day. Clearly the transition will take some time 😏