Embracing My New Normal
Amazing what 6 weeks recovering does!
A couple of weeks since my last progress report… Wow it's been 6 weeks! It’s incredible how much has changed in such a short time, and I’m excited to share some updates with you! Spoiler alert: things are definitely better!
Started my Cardio Rehab Program
First off, I’m officially one week into my cardio rehab program, and wow, what a journey it’s been! Those initial educational sessions felt a bit like a crash course in being kind to my heart. Physically, they started me slow, introducing me to the gym equipment—think of me and the treadmill looking like an awkward two step dance —but slowly but surely, I’m getting the hang of it! There’s something almost euphoric about breaking a bit of a sweat for 45 minutes.
I’ve also kicked up my personal workouts a notch by walking twice a day. I am easily now at 3.5 miles a day (Dog is happy!) and I hope to re-engage in lap swimming again.
Funny story: great group of people helping at the rehab sessions! One particular story to call out was the Stress Educational Session. The speaker had one slide : 3 visible stressed out gold fish inside a plugged-in blender. She said they are worried about someone pressing the start key! – I laugh so hard. Good one!
The Cardio Rehab Program is all about rebuilding your physical, mental and dietary confidence again and providing you with the tools you need to manage them all. Very interesting!
First Solo Drive
It’s a small thing but an accomplishment, nevertheless. This past Sunday, I took my first solo drive trip into Phoenix to meet with my daughter and her boyfriend for a Flamenco Show. Not going to lie, I felt a hint of nerves driving alone, but once I was going, it was all good! – The small things you take for granted!
I realized how much I missed these little adventures and how vital they are for my soul. With all due respect to my amazing wife, I think it is independence that I miss a lot.
BTW - The show was Authentic Flamenco and it was amazing – we enjoyed the music and the dancing. VERY different and highly recommended. Five people 2 dancers, 2 singers and one guitarist! Loved it!
Back to Work – It is time to Start!
Just yesterday, my wife commented that I seem to be back to my old self with my return to my computer lifestyle, which she says is already a bit too much. (Been working on a new project – more below!)
This weekend I celebrated my 15-year anniversary at the company I work for. So very grateful. It is an incredible company and people I work with, and it is crazy to think it’s been that long, but I love what I do! Today I’m heading back to work! Honestly, I’m a little nervous, but more than anything, I’m excited. This recovery has shown me that retirement is nowhere near on the horizon for me—I still feel I have so much to do, especially as so many of us (companies and people) adopt Artificial Intelligence! Who knew a month of recovery could feel both refreshing and like a mini eternity? Let’s just say my productivity has missed me! I can’t wait to reconnect with my colleagues and jump back into the projects ahead. It’s going to be a wonderful change of pace for both me and my wife, but all so different!
The One Challenge at Hand Still: Food and Blood Sugar
I am feeling so much better watching carefully what I eat. Eating clean quality food was not high on my radar. It is now 100% better (no more cookies for one!) After seeing what sugar and carbs do silently to my body, I do not want to go back there again. This is a positive challenge because now, I am having to watch for low blood sugar levels. I encourage you to look at this YouTube from the late Dr. Sarah Hallberg from back 11 years ago. Everyone should read it
My wife and I are learning a lot in the process! Testing what makes sugar go up and for how long, and also what it does not affect it. For example: If I eat brown rice alone, my sugar level goes up and stays up for a long time. Now if I combine the rice with black beans the sugar levels do not go high (just normally low) and they do not stay up! – Amazing, as I happen to love rice and beans!
It will take a while to adjust; it is definitely a journey. Although it is challenging, the good news is that I have reduced one of my meds already in half – YEAH!
A New Project: Tiny Story Time
And in true Jorge fashion, I couldn’t resist embracing my creative side while in this recovery journey. I’ve launched a new Substack publication called Tiny Story Time. It’s a space where I’ll be sharing short stories made for children ages 3-8 (with a little twist). Writing has always been a passion of mine, and this new project feels like the perfect outlet to channel my technology background and my writing passion. I’m excited to tap into this and share that with you! Please let me know what you think!
I hope you’ll check it out, join in and/or share it with others!
.Looking back on the last 6 weeks, I've felt a whirlwind of emotions, from fear and uncertainty to gratitude and hope. It’s amazing how resilience can blossom from the most unexpected places. I’m surrounded by so much support from family, friends, and all of you reading this, and it’s made all the difference.
As always, I want to remind you to take care of your health and always keep an open conversation about it. Our lives can change in the blink of an eye, and I'm grateful to be on this journey of healing and growth. I share my diary and other stories here, but I also post on my website, jorgep.com, particularly the Heart and Health section, where I’m sharing more detailed of my recovery experience and resources that could help you or someone you know.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me! Together, let’s keep celebrating life, chasing dreams, and supporting each other! Hope you share some stories as well!
Good vibes to you all! Hope this helps a little! If you are new here, please subscribe - and if you are already a subscriber, THANK YOU.
Love this!
God bless you. I’ve been through similar experiences and would be happy to talk anytime. Bill