Life is Unpredictable - Make Each Day Count

In the realm of health, personal stories have the incredible ability to change lives. As February and National Heart Month come to an end, we had the honor of talking with James Wolf from Minster, Ohio, who is celebrating the first anniversary of a day that profoundly transformed his life.

Can you share details about February 21, 2024? 

"I felt an unusual tightness in my chest that was foreign yet insistent, a pressure that just felt like a heavy weight pressing down, it was both alarming and confusing to me. I had never felt that feeling before. It was as though my body was sending me an urgent message, yet my mind struggled to grasp its meaning. I was at a basketball game and Wilson Health has an Athletic Trainer on staff, Kaitlin Sutter. I tapped Kaitlin on the shoulder and asked her to join me in the hallway. I could feel myself laboring to breathe, the air just seemed thick and heavy. Panic began to seep in, a stark contrast to the calm I had tried to maintain up to that point. I remember telling Kaitlin my pain tolerance is pretty high, but I felt really bad. I could sense my surroundings fading; Kaitlin and my wife’s voice seemed muffled and distant, like I was submerged underwater and then I collapsed and the fight for my life began. A family friend raced for the AED and Kaitlin immediately began CPR. To my understanding, the AED was administered a couple different times until the local EMT’s, Carol Albers and Kendra Sommer, arrived. They were able to get a pulse.  But on the way to Wilson Health, they lost me twice and had to bring me back. Kaitlin was instrumental during the critical minutes after I collapsed before the EMT arrived. The only effects from that night cognitively are just some short and long term memory loss and perhaps I am a step slower at work with multi-tasking. All in all I am extremely lucky to be where I am. Only 10% survive this event when outside of the hospital setting and Kaitlin was my angel that evening, no doubt about it."

Did you have any signs or symptoms leading up to the event?

"This is actually an interesting piece of this story for me. Still an unknown to this day, but I feel it had to be a warning sign. A few months prior, I was experiencing excruciating back pain. I went through chiropractic care with no relief. I went to a specialist for an evaluation and I can remember her telling me she just couldn’t put her finger on it, but something just didn’t seem right. She asked that I come back the next few days for another treatment. The next day is when I had my cardiac arrest. I spent a week in the hospital mostly in bed and never really stood much. When I was released however, my back pain and issues were completely gone. It has been a year and I have not had one issue since. In fact, my back feels better than ever.  Was this a sign? I just don’t know. Later I found out if I had indeed had surgery I could have been in grave danger of surviving it.  Wow! That made me pause for a second for sure. Just 5 months prior to my heart attack, I went hiking on two separate occasions in Colorado. I was able to handle 5 mile hikes in high elevations without much issue at all. I wasn’t on any medications either so I guess the visible signs were not present.”

It’s been 1 year since your heart event, how do you feel?

"Physically, I feel a little better every month to the point now where I have some pretty good days. I can handle a 4 mile walk without any trouble, but exerting myself up hills and intense physical activity is where I have to continue to build up my endurance."

How has your life changed since your heart attack?

"Since my heart attack, I’ve tried to embark on a journey of introspection and transformation. Physically, I've had to adopt a healthier lifestyle. I had to rethink my diet, I have completely given up soda and limit sweets and fried foods the best I can. Basically, prioritizing my cardiovascular health. This has not only improved my physical well-being, but also fostered a deeper appreciation for my body and its resilience. Emotionally, the event no doubt served as a wake-up call. It prompted me to re-evaluate what truly matters. I’ve learned to cherish relationships even more, to express love and gratitude more openly, and to prioritize. I’ve also become more mindful, savoring everyday moments that I previously didn’t take for granted per say, rather just didn’t realize they meant so much until they were almost taken away."

"Ultimately, my heart attack was a turning point. It stripped away the trivialities of life and illuminated what is essential: health, connection, and purpose. While it was a difficult time and still very much is, it has led me to a more intentional and fulfilling way of living."

If you would have any advice for those that are reading your story, what would it be?

"First and foremost, I would encourage everyone to prioritize your health. Get a regular check up, know your numbers, educate yourself on the signs and try your best to consume a balanced diet and get as much exercise as you can. While I still have challenges related to the cardiac arrest, I do feel much better than I did prior to the event in many ways. Exercise and what you put in your body makes all the difference in the world on how you feel. And, just remember to live with purpose. Find what brings you joy. If you have unfortunately experienced a similar life changing event, remember to just embrace the change, stay hopeful, and seek support if needed."

Are you still connected with Kaitlin Sutter, the Athletic Trainer?

"For sure! We see Kaitlin all the time as she continues to serve as the Athletic Trainer at Minster High School. My wife, Shelly, is a coach in the system and she sees Kaitlin all the time. Very sweet and humble young lady. She goes above and beyond for the kids. I really admire what she has done for the community over the past 14 years at Minster. Her time commitment with having two kids of her own, coupled with a great husband who supports her career, is very admirable. She will forever be woven into our family."

Can you share your experience at Wilson Health?

"Dr. Adel Yaacoub, Cardiologist, is the absolute salt of the earth. Not only did he assist in my life-saving effort that night, but he has been such a support to me over the past year. I have texted him at all hours of the day, typically because I was nervous or had a question about how I was feeling and he took my call every time. Weekends, off work hours, it didn’t matter. The Cardio Rehab team was amazing with some super nice and supportive professionals that really made the process go smooth for me. I can't say enough great things about everyone at Wilson Health."

Anything else you would like to add? 

"As I reflect on this past year, it’s the quiet conversations that have grounded me and are treasures I now cherish more than ever. Each day I wake up is a blessing. Every second spent with those I love is a gift that I will never take for granted. I am more aware now of the unspoken bonds that tie us together, and I hold them even more sacred. I want to encourage everyone to express your feelings, and never shy away from vulnerability. Life is unpredictable, make each day count! Lastly, I just want to thank my family and friends for being my pillars of support and my companions on this journey. I am blessed for sure."

If you or someone you know is unsure about their health, reach out to your doctor. A simple, routine check-up could be life-changing. To find a physician at Wilson Health, call (937) 498-9464 or visit Find A Doctor.