Subject: Things you really want to hear (Tri is good for you) "You have a strong and healthy heart. You're cleared to do all physical activities. I think you're crazy, but good luck trying to become an Ironman." That's what I heard yesterday from my cardiologist. I had been thinking about going and getting a complete workup, having turned 50 in February. My PCP agreed and wrote the referral. I didn't expect to find any problems, but there were a couple things circulating in my find. First was the two deaths at Philly Marathon last year, especially Chris Gleason, who was a seasoned triathlete and passed away on the course about 5 minutes after I finished. The second was my brother-in-law, who is in great shape, plays and coaches hockey, and found out he had mitral valve prolapse and needs surgery. So I was nervous for no reason after all. Plus I didn't mind taking my shirt off for the cute resident who examined me. I'm 50, in excellent health, and am going to begin my quest to become an Ironman at Lake Placid, 2013. I guess I become half an Ironman this year, but I see no reason to rush, I am definitely in this for the long haul. I love this lifestyle! |