Months of warning signs finally lead former basketball star to ER
Stefani Kopenec, American Heart Association News
Feb. 25, 2021
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For a couple of months, Ralph Lee wasn t feeling quite right. His wife, Janelle, urged him to see a doctor. His company-scheduled physical for executives was set for shortly after their upcoming vacation.
On the trip, Ralph – once a star Division I basketball player in college and now a 55-year-old human resources vice president – started sweating profusely after just a few minutes of warming up with his buddy for a pickleball tournament. He grabbed a sports drink and sat down.
Two days later, Ralph led a team of 50 co-workers on a fundraising walk for the American Heart Association representing Stark County, Ohio. As a board member for the event, he listened closely as heart disease survivors shared their stories. Then, he began the 2-mile walk.
Why experts say a good mood can lead to good health
Laura Williamson, American Heart Association News
Feb. 25, 2021
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It doesn t take a scientist to understand that laughter feels good, while anger feels awful.
But it does take one to explain why one of these feelings can boost the immune system, while the other can wear it down, damage the heart and increase the risk for dementia.
Simply put: Mood can influence your health, said Dr. Erin Michos, director of Women s Cardiovascular Health at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore.
Studies show negative emotions – including anger, hostility and pessimism – are linked to a higher risk of heart disease and lower chance of recovery from events such as heart attacks, as well as poorer cognitive health. Conversely, a growing body of research shows feelings such as happiness, optimism, gratitude, a sense of purpose, well-being or satisfaction in life lead to better heart and brain healt