Hello friends!
I just wanted to tap a friendly "hello," from 65 degree weather!
I hear you all are getting hammered with snow up there, but I hope that it's not veering you from making it to class!
I wanted to let you all know that I was recently diagnosed with DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis). Basically, that's a blood clot in the leg. It's on the right side of my body, and it extends from my lower abdominals to my ankle. It's been a crazy ride to say the least! I guess it was a life-threatening condition, but I don't remember much of how I got to the hospital. My doctor and hematologist said that my case was pretty extreme for my age and condition. They think that it was genetic, but of course... they are not 100% sure. Either way, I'm feeling better now.
I'm out of the hospital and recovery will be a long, drawn-out process. The worst part is over... I was at a high risk of getting "pulmonary embolism" there for awhile. That's when a blood clot breaks off and makes its way to your lungs... not good... I think the statistic is that only 5% of people, that experience PE, live to tell the tale. No worries though. As the days go by, I grow less and less likely of getting it. To be honest, I have a new outlook on life and I'm getting healthier by the second! They are telling me that martial arts is "finito" for me... but, we all know better than that.
The main reason I'm writing is to thank Master J.E. Circle for helping me become a stronger man. I seriously believe that Koguryo Martial Arts Academy saved my life. If it wasn't for the mental and physical conditioning, I believe that I wouldn't be here today. Going into this God awful condition, I had strong lungs, continued my stretching drills, and practiced in my room at night, after work (student handbook nearby for the occassional light reading). My goal was to try and get to 80, 3-count "honches!" haha! Master Circle, you'll be happy to hear that "pre-DVT," I got up to 60.
Not bad for a yellow belt, if I do say so myself.
I saw my doctor today and he said that my legs are still swelling up. He has me on more medications and a low sodium diet. I'm still on light/limited duty, so I can't do any jaw-jarring exercises. I can walk, golf, and ride the stationary bike... slowly. I feel pretty good, but if my pre-DVT-condition was 100%, I'd say that my current condition is about 65%. It's a day-by-day type of life for me now. They say I'll be on blood thinning medications for the rest of my life, but again... I'm optimistic that it will only be a year.
So, kids... KEEP AT IT! Adults, take it all seriously and try to take the studies home with you. I hope and pray that none of you ever have to type something like this in your future; but, if you do... I hope your outcome is "at least" as good as mine has been.
With love and respect,
Leo