August 1, 2024
Dear Friends,
I would ordinarily use Emet Mail as a place to share updates about Beth Emet and my vision as President of the Board. There is much that is meaningful and important happening at Beth Emet, which I will share in my High Holy Day message in the Chadashon. Today, however, I would like to share something more personal with you. On the evening of Wednesday, June 26th, I had a heart attack, which was caused by a blood clot that blocked 100% of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery, which carries oxygen-rich blood to 50% of the heart. This type of heart attack is commonly referred to as the widowmaker. Before this event, I had no ongoing medical issues such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or family history. Many have asked what happened and what it felt like. Although I am usually more private about such matters, my current voice at Beth Emet and my deep feelings for all of you have compelled me to share my story. I hope that the blessing of my renewed good health might benefit others who could find themselves in a similar circumstance.
My cardiac event came suddenly. A few hours before dinner, I felt discomfort in my chest, as if the shoulder belt in my car was tight against my body and not releasing. Beyond this tightness, I felt no other symptoms, no pain radiating down my arm or jaw, and no nausea—some of the signs we are taught to associate with heart attacks. You might agree that it’s human nature to say: “It’s nothing,” or “If I still feel this way in the morning, I’ll go to the doctor”. By acting quickly, not dismissing discomfort, and staying calm, I saved my life.
The talented medical professionals at Endeavor Health didn’t “miss a beat” (pun intended) and quickly worked to stabilize me, remove a blood clot, and insert a stent into my LAD artery. By noon on Friday, I was discharged and feeling as fantastic as always. Within a few days, I was back at work (both at Beth Emet and my design firm), attending weekly Israeli dancing (every Thursday night at Beth Emet, which I recommend for your Jewish spirit and body), and exercising. I hope my story captures the essence of this important Jewish value, Pikuach Nefesh, and that I can help others recognize critical signs and encourage them to act swiftly, potentially saving their own life or the life of someone they care about.
Karem Abdul Jabar, a Basketball Hall of Famer diagnosed with heart issues, represents a product whose marketing line is No Time to Wait. Please remember those 4 words and take control of your health and your life.
Gratefully yours,
Lee
