I was born with a condition called bicuspid aortic valve. This is a defect that is found in the heart and I'm basically missing a small piece in my heart that helps control blood flow. Because of this, when my heart tries to pump out blood into the body, some of the blood doesn't make it completely out the heart and flows back in. Because of this I get tired easily because not all the oxygen that blood brings around the body doesn't make it all the way. Because of this my cardiologist told me that I wouldn't do too well in any sort of endurance sports, like Cross Country.
I was raised by very strong parents, especially my mom. Due to that, I hate ever feeling weak or the underdog. When I was kid I hated the fact that I was always caught in games like tag because I would simply tire out so quickly. I thought everyone just had an unfair advantage over. Another issue with this condition is that I also faint easily. However, it is only if I over exercise or if have any sort of extreme emotions, like being frightened. I've been able to manage with the emotions aspect of this condition; however, physically, I am working on it. I joined my schools Cross Country team. After three years I have been able to increase my endurance a lot and my doctor has now even told me that my heart seems to be working normally now. Before you would hear the wooshing of my heart's murmur, but now it's almost at the point where you can't even tell.
Jeffrey, you're the only one with a blog post, so I'm making you my first victim.............................................................................. Anyway. That's crazy, dude. I thought I was unlucky for having been born with elf ears and then I read this. Oh well, nice piece of writing.
ReplyDeleteI think that's cool how even though you have this birth defect, yet you never let it stop you. It's like me having asthma and I still run track and field...
ReplyDeleteAwkwardo I didn't know this. I think its really cool how regardless of what you're doctor said you run track and field and cross country and you're one of the best. When you're out there running no one can tell that you have this condition because you never let it show and I really admire your perseverance.
ReplyDelete-your bestie
I like how you didn't let that birth defect affect you(:
ReplyDeleteWow Jeffery. That birth defect didn't stop you from pursuing what you wanted to become. You took control of your life and not the other way around, that's very admirable.
ReplyDeleteYou are a great inspiration Jeffrey. It's crazy because you're one of the best runners in the track team and the condition hasn't stopped you from becoming a great runner. It shows dedication and courage.
ReplyDeleteJeffrey, I love how much information you were able to convey in such a small space. Combined with the candid observations and sincere tone, I can tell you are an excellent storyteller!
ReplyDeleteI hate you
ReplyDelete