Three years ago, Lori Kubitz’s heart struggled to keep beating. In pain and gasping for breath, she was rushed to the hospital in the middle of a heart attack. “I had the kind called a widowmaker because it’s a 100 percent blockage of the LAD (left anterior descending) artery,” Lori said. “When that happens, usually only 5 percent of people survive.” Lori survived and is now passionate about living healthy and sharing her story of recovery.
Life before and after
There were warning signs for six months leading up to the heart attack – heartburn, neck pain, high blood pressure, a stomachache, and intense jaw pain. “I explained away every warning sign.” Lori was 54 at the time, a little more than 200 pounds, and had a family history of heart disease. “It was always in the back of my mind that it could happen. But when it did, I was in utter disbelief. It was eye-opening.”
As Lori recovered and dealt with the aftermath of her heart attack – including emotional stress and depression – she realized she wanted to make a life change. “They told me I would have depression problems. You go through lots of emotions. You have to get through those to find yourself and that’s what I finally did.”
Taking control of her health
Along the way, Lori discovered why she wanted to take charge of her health. But she struggled with trying to get healthy on her own. “What I needed was accountability.” Lori found that with Profile. With her coach encouraging and challenging her, Lori has lost more than 10 percent of her body weight and is learning lifelong healthy habits. “My life wouldn’t be the same without my coach.”
At her last doctor’s appointment, Lori received a clean bill of health. “My blood pressure was the best it’s been in a long, long time. I was excited about that.” Lori continues to focus on improving her health. Profile helps her stay consistent and accountable to her goals. The shakes, she said, have been a lifesaver. “I make them hot, which I know most people don’t do,” she said, laughing. “I put them in coffee and it’s just like a latte. I love them.”
Supporting others
Her passion now is to share. Lori told her story at a business conference, and it lit a fire in her to help others. “It was the best thing I’ve done. People came up to me afterward to talk and I’ve done it three times since. If I can make a difference to one person, it’s worth it. Obesity, cancer, diabetes, everybody deals with something. It’s a road. It’s a challenge.”
Lori’s near-death experience shaped the rest of her life – for the good. “My journey has been about coming home and what lies ahead and getting through it. That’s my message for other people, to realize how lucky you are and face the future. Be thankful you’re alive. I hope I make it a lot more years.”