#turtletroop

Starting my latest audio book today and looking forward to this one #turtletroop https://www.instagram.com/p/CJ05ePyFYyj/?igshid=rfh0dbushq1y

Last few weeks have been manic and stressful, both with work and the new meds. This arrived today from @jade__rebecca and put a massive smile on my face. It also motivated me to get out there and start getting back with not my steps and fitness routine. Thank you so much Jade, you are one in a million. #turtletroop #kindness #thoughtfulness #truefriends (at Edinburgh, United Kingdom) https://www.instagram.com/p/CI_NaBzFjol/?igshid=rgyioa5hjd9x

Some intense reading on @flipboard with content from @garyvee #stevesjourney #turtletroop #entrepreneurlife #learning #bizdev https://www.instagram.com/p/CHDjg2BlioM/?igshid=1o96ymrlnr1kv

Breakfast - don’t be put off by the colour, tastes goooooood #stevesjourney #healthylifestyle #turtletroop (at Edinburgh, United Kingdom) https://www.instagram.com/p/CG9aIwylAGp/?igshid=7utiwpm1oaao

Almost never got up today but then I realised I’d never reach my goals. #healthylifestyle #exercise #walking #stevesjourney #turtletroop (at Edinburgh, United Kingdom) https://www.instagram.com/p/CGzG1IsFlp4/?igshid=m2rsa616zgo2

An early night or what I should say is becoming the norm. Keeping my chimp in check #turtletroop #stevesjourney #choices #sleep #recharge (at Edinburgh, United Kingdom) https://www.instagram.com/p/CGyL1Iln1Qq/?igshid=1n5awn0pxfnzx

I wanted to share this to explain what part of my journey involves.  In 2019 I was diagnosed with Severe Heart Failure.  A massive shock to someone who has been relatively fit for most of their lives.  After being on meds for months, in July 2020 an MRI scan showed that my heart ejection % was - 36% In mid September I had signed up for a research program about a new drug that involved taking a series for ECG’s and MRI scans. The study was aimed at anyone with a % below 40. At my initial ECG they recorded an ejection fraction of 45% and increase (in the right direction of 9%). The doctor said my meds must be working but they had not changed since the July MRU which showed 36%. The only thing that had changed dramatically was my lifestyle: 1. More exercise - at a level that suited me - gym workout, long walks, cycling. 2. More sleep - increased from 5hrs per night to 7hrs. 3. Better eating - not a diet but more about looking at what I was eating.  I watched my calories, watched my macros and still enjoyed a lot food I loved, including takeaways.  It was all about choices. I’ve lost 14lbs in 2 months 4. Switched from caffeinated soda drinks to caffeine free (a big move for me, trust me). 5. Less stress in my life - reading and listening to books by various authors showed me how to change my mindset. 6. Family time - more time with the people I love and that love me. 7. Supportive friends - people who don’t judge you. All of the above, working together is what I believe has improved my health.  I’ve still got a ways to go to get over that 50% marker though.