ZombieZombie
Registered
A ScubaBoard Staff Message...
Very sad.
The issue of heart health is a tough one. I had a heart attack 6 years ago while doing a cross country run... the day before heading for our first trip to Cozumel. I was pushing my limits on the run- so I don't know if anything would have happened diving. Yet as an inexperienced diver there would have been lots of opportunities for high stress so who knows.
I get stress tested every year now and I am fit as a flea with no signs of ischemia or even heart muscle damage. I have no outward signs of heart disease at all, but I had a myocardial infarction before and can't exclude the possibility again. I've told my wife that if it happens- no regrets. Better to die living. The real tragedy is for those who have to deal with finding and recovering the bodies of those who perish. I would hate that anyone was ever traumatized finding me in the water, but I still dive. Given my regular health checks, I think the risks are measured as best as I can.
Should I dive? Like many in middle age, I just say no on the declarations and go dive. I am not looking to clean out a dive op if I don't come home, but is it unfair on those who might have to drag me out of the water?
Last edited by a moderator: