Think only middle-aged men are at risk? Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women too, and under age 50, their heart attacks are twice as likely as men’s to be fatal. Meet three inspiring young survivors—and learn how to protect your own ticker.
“My doctor told me I would need a transplant.”
Amanda Daniels, 33
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA
IN 2003 I was 25, working as a group-cycling instructor and indulging my adventure-junkie side with paragliding and canyoneering. I had never felt healthier, even though I’d known for years that I had an arrhythmia, or “hiccuping heart.” My doctor had assured me that this condition is very common and often harmless, though it can interfere with the heart’s ability to pump blood.
*For the full article please refer to Shape March 2012 Issue
