Swimming World Magazine contributor and Open Water Swimming advocate Steven Munatones, who suffered a heart attack on May 13, released an update on his thoughts and experiences from the last two weeks.
A Go Fund Me fundraising page has been set up to help provide the Munatones family some relief from the medical bills and other expenses as Munatones continues to rehabilitate from the heart attack.
Steven Munatones Update:
Everyone,
Thank you very much for the bottom of my heart. I greatly appreciate all the words of encouragement and support during these trying times. It will take me time to thank each and every one of you, so this is the first step.
This is a short report on my mind, body, and soul.
MIND
I do not remember anything for 9 days before and after my heart attack. There were also periods of time after that when I occasionally interfused my dreams with reality (which made my wife either laugh or scratch her head). But my mind definitely seems sharper than normal now.
I notice small things now that I ignored before: the tone of a voice, the color of a flower, and the taste of food. Everything seems more in focus and “closer” now. It seem as if I am watching life on a massive HDTV or while wearing an Oculus Rift.
BODY
A week ago, I could not get out of bed by myself. Fewer than 4 days ago, I could barely move from the bed to standing up. It took a lot of effort and help. My core and legs were useless.
I cannot swim for at least a few months, which is one consequence of wearing a wearable defibrillator 24/7. I cannot run. I cannot ride a bicycle. I do not trust myself driving on the California freeways.
But I can walk easily now and do KAATSU. I am down to my college weight, so that is benefit. But the girth of my arms and legs has decreased; yet strength to my core and limbs is steadily returning.
The local paramedics, Dr. Carter, Dr. Torres, Dr. Gilmore, and the entire medical staff at Hoag Hospital are all heroes. Their training, education and the technology they use to keep someone like me alive are absolutely breathtaking.
All of this seems to make this road back to healthful longevity quite doable.
SOUL
Without a doubt, I was lucky. I had a heart attack at home when my family was there. I have a wife and son with a calm, focused demeanor who both saved me. My sister, parents and friends also never left my side. Your collective presence and prayers were powerful and undoubtedly gave me strength.
I just read everyone’s messages on Facebook, although it will take me more time to get through all the emails and text messages. Your words were incredibly beautiful and they greatly warmed my soul.
Your words, prayers, and actions gave me an additional insight and confidence in everyone’s innate goodness. I am deeply touched. Thank you very much again.