It has been 162 days since I was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy and LVBBB.

My travels had been restricted to the local neighborhood, occasional commute to work, shopping, and various kids activities.  I might have ventured 20 miles away from the house at the most, and I was always within quick access to medical attention … if needed of course.

I’ve always known that I would need to engage in regular travels soon, venturing further away and get comfortable with flying again.

Part of being a parent means you need to travel frequently for kids activities and stray further away from the comforts of the house, and that places more strain on your body.  Not in a negative way, but you are on the go much more.

Also, part of my job requires me to do some travel, visiting other offices and staff, ensuring we have a great team and deliver results.  Staying away from home several times a year is a norm in my role, which means taking long-haul flights, stay in hotels and being social many hours.

The anxiety I had developed as a result of my heart challenge has made me rather anxious about the flights.  Not only flights but also being away from my wife and in locations where I might not know how or where to get medical attention … if needed.

• Would my heart rate increase?
• What if I panicked?
• Could I get to my medication?
• Are cabin crew trained in CPR?
• Would there be a doctor onboard like in all movies?

My wife decided it was time to celebrate our health achievements and travel to our beloved Ireland for a long weekend.  The aim was to meet friends, ex-colleagues, and family, and see the wonders of Dublin.

To get there, we would, of course, have to fly.  Just the thought of traveling my plane made me anxious, and when we bought the tickets I could feel my blood pressure go up slightly.

Yes, I have developed Spiderman senses as a result of my heart scare.

On the day of traveling, and driving to the airport, I could again feel the anxiousness creep in.  Nothing I could really do about it except trying to be calm.

Well. I had to face my fears and boarded the plane with my lovely family.  The rest is history and we made it there and back again with absolutely no problems.

The morale of the story – face your fears, be brave, be positive and trust your body.  If the doctors have given you the green light to resume normal activities, if you feel stronger, then engaging traveling will help you become stronger.

You will realize that traveling, especially with family, can be relaxing and enjoyable.  This will allow you to heal your heart.

No need to do long-haul flights if you are not comfortable.  You can travel by plane, train or automobiles.  As long as you get away from the daily routines and get a chance to enjoy yourself for a few days.

Hope this helps!