Susan Smith - Recovered From Heart Failure
Sue is our Athlete of the Month for November! She is one of StrongerLife’s greatest success stories and an inspiration. After battling heart complications, she has recovered from heart failure and is healthier and stronger than ever before!
What’s one thing you are now able to do that you didn’t think was possible before StrongerLife? There are so many but I get the most enjoyment from lifting heavy objects. I have the ability to grab the largest bag of dog food or lift the biggest pumpkin in the bin! Hardly a day goes by that I don’t silently thank SL for helping me achieve this confidence.
What would you tell others that are considering joining StrongerLife? Normally I’d say you have nothing to lose, but it’s just the opposite. You will lose your strength if you don’t challenge it. SL can help you build and preserve it in a fun, safe, and supervised environment.
What challenges were you facing when you started working with us? How did that make you feel? In an attempt to make a long story short, I was diagnosed with A-fib and heart failure last November. I had been feeling exhausted for months prior to joining SL in Aug ‘21. I underwent surgery in February ‘22 and after a 3-week recovery, my cardiologist advised me to begin exercising to strengthen my heart and lungs. Thankfully SL was there for me. I had really missed my SL ‘family’. I know everyone there has their own unique story but we all share a common goal to achieve the best life possible. My latest test results revealed my heart function has drastically improved. I’m no longer in heart failure and as for my lungs, my doctor’s note read, “She appears to have already compensated very well by conditioning accessory muscles of respiration, as the inspiratory muscle strength is supernormal at 130% predicted.” His advice "Keep exercising!"
What did you notice about us that was different from similar businesses you've worked with in the past? There is no pressure or no shame. You do what’s comfortable for you. The knowledgeable coaches will show you how to modify any exercise to meet your individual needs.
Think back to your first day at StrongerLife. How did you feel? I loved it. I felt welcomed and part of something I’d wanted to do for years. I knew I was in the right place!
StrongerLife hosts the best senior group fitness classes in Lexington, KY. We focus on improving people’s Physical, Mental, & Social health. Science-based programs led by professional coaches.
