Matters of the Heart: How Health Crises Can Lead to Unexpected Growth

In 1966, a routine physical turned my world upside down. At age 15, doctors diagnosed me with a coarctation of the aorta, a condition that thrust me into the then-nascent world of open-heart surgery. Little did I know that this was just the first chapter in a long and ongoing saga with my heart. I have now undergone not one, not two, but three open-heart surgeries, along with several other related procedures. During the last of these three surgeries, my heart was stopped for just under six hours.

Now, I know what you might think: “That sounds like a nightmare.” And you wouldn’t be entirely wrong. There have been moments of fear, frustration, and sheer exhaustion. But looking back, I realize that these health crises haven’t just been stumbling blocks — they’ve been unexpected catalysts for growth. They’ve taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, gratitude, and the importance of embracing life, even when it throws you a curveball.

A Young Heart’s Surgical Tale

My first surgery was a daunting experience. As a teenager, facing mortality head-on was, understandably, unsettling. I was fortunate to have had my surgery in the 1960s when pioneers were making great advances in heart surgery. I was hospitalized for about a week, then returned home for a longer convalescence. When I got back to school, gym class got a lot more interesting, as my scar got a lot of attention. I learned to deflect with humor as it was easier than explaining the complexities of congenital heart defects to my fellow teens, who were more interested in football scores than medical procedures.

Comedy albums became an unconventional form of therapy during my recovery. The Smothers Brothers and Bill Cosby provided much-needed laughter, which, unbeknownst to me then, aided my healing. Laughter, it turns out, is excellent medicine! Years later, I had the chance to thank Tommy Smothers in person. It was a surreal moment, a reminder that even the most unlikely sources can offer solace and healing.

The Beat Goes On

As the years passed, I lulled myself into thinking my heart problems were behind me. Then in 1995, I was invited to take part in a follow-up study at the University of Minnesota Heart Hospital. The results were sobering: I had three out of four long-term complications common among patients with my medical history. This news was a wake-up call, a reminder that my heart would require ongoing attention.

One of the most poignant moments in my life is when I realized that my heart wasn’t cooperating during a hike in New Zealand. For someone who always prided himself on keeping pace, this was a jarring experience. It was a stark reminder of my limitations and the need to prioritize my health.

Blossoming Through Adversity

So, how did I manage to “blossom” through these health challenges? It wasn’t always easy, but here are a few key strategies that helped me along the way:

• Embrace Humor: As I mentioned earlier, laughter is a powerful tool. Finding humor in even the darkest situations can lighten the load and make the journey more bearable.
• Cultivate Gratitude: Focus on what you have, rather than what you’ve lost has been essential in my life. I’m grateful for the medical professionals who have cared for me, my loved ones who have supported me, and the advancements in medicine that have made my survival possible.
• Accept Limitations: Recognize and accept physical limitations in order to adjust expectations and prioritize your well-being. It’s okay to slow down, ask for help, and say “no” when necessary.
• Find Purpose: Having a sense of purpose generates something to strive for and helps you stay motivated. Whether it’s writing, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing hobbies, finding meaning in life is crucial.
• Advocate for Yourself: Be proactive about your health. Ask questions, seek second opinions, and don’t be afraid to challenge medical advice if something doesn’t feel right.

Keep on Going

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or simply in need of a reminder that you’re not alone, I hope my story will resonate with you. From heart surgeries to blood loss, from bifocal vision to bouts of forgetfulness, my body has been through quite a journey. Each health challenge has left its mark, not just physically, but on my perspective of life. These experiences have taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of finding humor in even the most dire situations. They’ve shown me the marvels of modern medicine and the mysteries that still puzzle our best minds. Most importantly, they’ve reminded me to never take my health for granted.

Remember, even in the midst of the most challenging circumstances, there is always the potential for growth and transformation. So, take a deep breath, feel your heart beating, and appreciate the incredible machine that is the human body and the indomitable spirit that drives it.

Written by Steve Larsen

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Steve Larsen is a man of many dimensions. A serial entrepreneur who helped shape the digital age, his companies created technologies that would later power Facebook, Google, and Amazon.com.  Through three open-heart surgeries and the devastating loss of a son, he’s demonstrated the same fierce resilience in his personal life that propelled his entrepreneurial success. A natural explorer, Steve has carved his way through 18 countries and 43 states on two wheels, chronicling his motorcycle odysseys in top-tier riding magazines for more than two decades. His new book, My Heart Has Been in it from the Start, recounts his personal journey and highlights the power of the human spirit. Learn more at SteveLarsen.