Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, and Dean Giem, CIC’s personal story is a reminder of the importance of resilience and heart health. Please take a moment to read and reflect on these life lessons shared by Dean, who’s year started off differently than he had planned. #HeartHealth #LifeLessons #WellnessMatters #Resilience #ThursdayThoughts #Inspiration #Health #ParadoxInsures
You may have noticed that I was a little quiet earlier this year, even absent. It is time that I share a piece of why. I found myself in a situation I never anticipated. The photo below was taken on February 11th, the morning after I was first admitted to the hospital for what would become a life-altering experience. A bacterial infection was attacking my heart, leading to emergency open-heart surgery just days later (February 14th to be exact). The surgeon said I wouldn't be here today if we had waited another 12 hours. This experience taught me that life can change in an instant. Even though my health had always been good, I now find myself ineligible for life insurance—a situation I never imagined at my age. I am blessed though. In the big picture, my situation was a blip in time. Recovery has gone well, with a couple of minor hiccups, but I am not still in the hospital awaiting my fate from a terminal illness like so many we all know. If there’s one takeaway I want to share, it’s this: don’t wait. Let's talk about the importance of taking that trip you want to take, making an apology you have been avoiding, chasing a dream that you think is just out of reach. In truth, I woke up after surgery and was ready to sell my agency and buy an ice cream shop. You can always reach out to see what I chose to do with my new lease on life. There is a need for planning ahead and making sure you’re prepared for life’s surprises, but you also need to be a little spontanious and leave any regret at the door. ???? #TuesdayThoughts #HeartHealth #LifeLessons #LifeInsurance #ParadoxInsures