Susan Lucci, best known for her role on All My Children, recently attended an awards event where she gave an update on her health after undergoing two heart procedures in the past four years. At 76 years old, she is doing really well and continues to keep a close eye on her health.
Last year, Lucci discovered that she had an 80% blockage in an artery due to cholesterol. She underwent a procedure to insert a stent, and so far, everything is going well. However, her journey to heart health has not been without its challenges.
In October 2018, Lucci started feeling intense pressure and pain around her ribcage. Like many women, she initially ignored the warning signs, thinking that she had too much to do and hoping the symptoms would go away on their own. It wasn’t until later that she realized the severity of her condition when a scan showed a 90% blockage in the main artery to her heart.
“I didn’t realize how close I came to a fatal heart attack,” Lucci admitted. Her condition turned out to be genetic, requiring emergency surgery. As an ambassador for the American Heart Association, Lucci wants to remind women not to ignore their health and put themselves first on their to-do list.
During the pandemic, like many of us, Lucci found solace in comfort food. However, her unhealthy eating habits eventually caught up with her. She started experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, and jaw pain, but she hesitated to visit the doctor, even after her previous procedure. Finally, she mustered the courage to get checked again, only to discover another major blockage caused by cholesterol, this time at 80%.
Lucci felt ashamed and initially didn’t want to discuss it publicly. But she realized the importance of being open and honest about her health journey, as a reminder to be vigilant and take care of ourselves.
Sadly, just two months after her second procedure, Lucci’s husband passed away. The loss was devastating, and she felt that nothing else mattered. However, she found support from friends who made her laugh and encouraged her to keep moving forward.
“It’s so important that we take care of ourselves,” Lucci emphasized. “While we want to put others before ourselves, if we don’t watch our own health, who will make sure we are okay?” Let this serve as a reminder to not delay visiting a doctor at the first sign that something may be wrong. Early detection and proactive care can make all the difference in our health and well-being.
