I just spent several days with several women who were savvy to the difference in symptoms of women’s heart attack and men’s. They knew heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women of all ages. They knew heart disease kills more women than any other life-threatening disease. They knew about diet, smoking, diabetes and obesity being major factors of heart disease.
What surprised me, however, was how few knew that when the symptoms are there, they should immediately call 911. Driving or asking anyone to drive you to the ER is life-threatening to oneself, the person driving and others on the road.
From the call to 911 and their getting you to the ER, you are in the hands of professionals. Forget all the reasons why getting there any another way is okay. Your life could well depend on it.
Leslea Steffel-Dennis
Vancouver