I’ve chosen to turn a personal challenge into something positive by sharing my story here.
I recently experienced my second bilateral pulmonary embolism, with blood clots affecting both lungs. Recovery has also been complicated by pneumonia, making the journey back to health a really difficult one. Having experienced bilateral pulmonary embolism once before, in 2018, I understand how serious these events can be.
What continues to surprise me is how little warning there was. Both times, I didn’t have any of the symptoms people often expect. It started with a cough, and what seemed like a normal seasonal cold, or even asthma after a recent flight and then the heatwaves.
So, when I was told it was a pulmonary embolism, again, it came as a shock.
Because of this experience, I want to help raise awareness and encourage others not to overlook the signs.
By sharing my story, I hope to support the Rowan Foundation’s work to educate the public about blood clots and help others affected by them feel less alone. Every time we speak about DVT, thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism, we help build awareness and support people facing similar challenges.
Please remember: a blood clot does not always come with dramatic symptoms. Sometimes the signs are easy to miss, and early action can make all the difference.
