As a 66 yr old hiker and wanna be solo backpacker - you have truly been an inspiration. Best wishes to you through your upcoming surgery, Rev. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Thanks. Hopefully after surgery (which went well) and recovery, I’ll be able to be back out on the trail. I’ve got some great plans for next backpacking season.
Rev, It sure seems that you have been blessed many times through life - ministry(s), wife, family, friends, hiking, backpacking, running out of steam on a 4 mile out-and-back trek, etc. We all pray for your successful procedure and speedy recovery.
Michael, please make sure you keep the Class of 71 updated on your upcoming surgery! It was great seeing you at the reunion last April and we want to see you at the birthday party next year !! Sending you good thoughts and lots of positive energy! Mary J.
Your story is inspirational. In January 2023 I was taken by ambulance after a heart attack to place a stent in an artery that the doc said was 99.9% blocked. It was a life-or-death situation, but I am fine now and in May 2023 I set foot in Hawaii Volcanoes, Haleakala, and the National Park of American Samoa to complete my bucket list of seeing all 63 US national parks. God is good-- all the time! May He continue to bless you with adventures in His amazing creation.
I too wound up having heart issues. I didn’t have a heart attack but I did end up having a triple bypass. It was during my recovery that I decided to go back to doing what I love to do, backpacking. I had not been backpacking since the early 1990’s. This happened in April of 2021. I’m planning my first ever thru hike this fall. Life is what we make of it. What could have been a killer of life turned out to be a life changer. Thank you for all the great video’s. I’m praying all goes well for you.
Glad to hear you are recovering, Rev. Im just a bit older than you are with 4 TIAs under my belt and I know how stamina becomes a real worry. Sending good wishes. "If we live we are the Lord's and if we die, we are the Lord's. So whether we live or die, we are the Lord's." This is good to know!
My Prayers are with you Rev. Like many of your subscribers I am your age. Our lifestyles are similar and as I grow older I realize how important it is for me to spend time on the trail. Your positive attitude truly inspires me. I seize every day that I'm hiking/backpacking. This is a WONDERFUL video. I cannot thank you enough for sharing. I am certain you have thousands of trail miles ahead of you. God bless and Hike On.
As a ‘hiking rev’ myself (retired pastor from Seattle who hikes almost daily in the summer and skis daily in the winter), I’m on your team!! Prayers for your healing, and I’d love to send you a book I write about hiking through the Alps 8 years ago, from Italy to Germany, called “The Map is not the Journey” - I’m just trying to find a way to reach you!! All the best friend!
Hey Rev, what an inspiration you are. I just climbed Mt Katahdin at age 67. Inwardly I wonder how long I can keep this up. I draw a lotta confidence from your videos and hope we have many years of hiking ahead of us. Take good care and I'll see you on the trail
You and I share a similar story. I’ve never been a long distance hiker but rather one that covers maybe 5 - 7 miles a day. Fortunately I live in an area where this is easy to accomplish. In July, I was on the North Country Trail in the Allegheny National Forest. It was then I knew there was a problem. I began seeking medical treatment but was getting nowhere with our local healthcare providers. Well, on September 24, 2023, I had a heart attack. Now, one blockage and one stent later I am back at it at 62 years of age. Only 3 weeks after the placing of the stent, I went solo on a 17 mile two nighter. My wife wasn’t too thrilled about it but I approached it cautiously and had no problems. I’m still not a high mileage guy but those few miles are better than no miles. Thanks for sharing your experience. You are an inspiration indeed.
My Brother, in times of trouble we can be assured of the intervention of our amazing Father in Heaven. Whats more, its not down to us but down to His unfailing promise. Psalm 91 says this Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honour him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” Hold on to this my friend. for God is for you and not against you. Blessings Dave
I had a triple A repaired 5 years ago now and feel as healthy as before. Hike many times in a week and bike over 1000 miles a year mine was the size of a pop can and extended up and beyond both braches going to the kidneys as well. A special stint was ordered from Australia and the surgery went well and I was back out and about in a couple weeks. All this was done 5 years ago and I'm now 73 years old. The best thing you could do for your health.
I will be praying for you. I am 83 and hike up Kennesaw Mountain 3 times a week and just had 4 stints in arteries leading to my heart. I in the past have done a lot of backpacking as you have and that also probably saved my life. Good luck and God bless you.
You encourage me as I have a family history of heart disease as well. While taking a break from PCT visiting son I had an incident of A-fib serious enough to be hospitalized. It destroyed my confidence in my physical body and they took months to do a stress test and clear me to hike again. Now I have to get back in shape and convince my family I am okay enough to hike alone or at least with another person. I am hoping to return to the trail next year and give it another go.
Hi Rev, I am a 70-year-old hiker who was told I had blockages in the smaller vessels in my heart that were causing me exhaustion during hilly tracts. The cardiologist told me my body had grown some new vessels that bypassed the blocked ones. I informed the doctor that it was God's hand that did it, not this old body. My vessels were too small to install stints. The cardiologist said to take the nitroglycerine tablets he gave me when I hike the Foothills Trail next month (77-mile hike) and if possible the AT in late March (2023). Of course, I'll be sick as a dog to ever take one of the tablets I am praying for your health daily and I hope you are able to safely keep hiking.
Praying for you Rev and hoping for a speedy recovery. You have been my inspiration to start my PCT hike hopefully when I retire at age 62. Hope to see you on the trail someday! God Bless!
Thanks for explaining this, Rev, it's amazing you were able to return from your heart attack so quickly and now this aortic issue. You've got this handled and I'll be here quietly watching when you're back.
My moms brother died from the same thing. He never knew it was an issue. This happens in 1977 and then my mom and her two siblings were tested for the issue. My moms sister and brother both had the issue and they both had the same procedure performed. They never had any issues after that. Last year I got checked for the same issue and tested fine. I am happy you got a warning, my uncle did not. It happened much like a heartache. My dad had a massive heart attack back in the 70s and they performed a triple bypass, he never had any issues with his heart. I am wishing you the best. Take care
Wow Rev, again quite the story! You are such an inspiration to me to always try to get back on the trail, even with health problems. Sending my very best wishes to you and hoping for a speedy recovery. I’d love to see you on the trail, but I’ll wave to you from across the pond.
Hi Rev, I’m sorry that I just got to view this video. I truly hope that you are well and continue to hike moderately. My family doesn’t have a history of heart issues but unfortunately I smoked years back (2pkg/day) which I did develop asthma. I stopped smoking about 30+ yrs ago but the damage was done. I do carry an inhaler but only for emergencies. Since then, I do hike moderately to stay active. Rev, I’ll keep you in my thoughts and prayers as you continue to get stronger in the 2024. Bless you and Mrs. Rev🙏🫶
I know this is a year old and you are well past the AAA surgery so I hope things went well on that front. My dad had one when he was in his late 60's and he had to have emergency surgery as his was at the danger point. But the doctor said his was caused by his heavy smoking habit. That is the leading cause but also contributing is over 65 white males plus heredity. All that being said, you have renewed my drive to get out this year for my first backpacking trip on the AT at age 70. You and hikers like Grandma Gatewood and Nimblewill Nomad are my inspiration. Happy Trails!
Thanks. My cardiologist said that my heart and vascular issues were strictly hereditary. Neither diet or lifestyle had anything to do with the problems. As long as you’re in good physical shape…go for it.😁
Rev - I've only just come to your chanel as I recover from a stroke. I'm 66 yrs of age and learning to walk again. You walking and back packing inspire me to push my rehab hard and get out on trails here in New Zealand. All the best for surgery and I wait with interest your rehab walking plans. Stay strong ( in the native New Zealand Maori language "Kia Kaha " stay strong ").
Well! As you probably faintly recall, I hike too but in SC and NC. The Sierra Nevadas are coming late fall '22. And for me to now know that you presently have 3 stents, we are in the same "club" as I have 3 stents in my heart area as well! You will surpass me in a couple of weeks and in a way you'll leave me behind having more stents than me. But seriously, you will be in the best hands for your procedure with the best Physician watching over it all! Amen to that, Rev! Praying for you daily now. May God continue to bless you and those you touch with your heartfelt words of encouragement. We're all looking forward to you putting this surgery behind you. See you down the trail!
So sorry to hear about your health struggles Rev. You will be in my thoughts and my family prayers as you go through this procedure and recovery. You are such an inspiration to us all and I hope to see you down the trail soon.
Good luck to sir on your upcoming surgery. It is humbling to do things to maintain health - hike, bike, exercise and eat healthy, and still be impacted by heath problems. However, it is much better to try to live a basically healthy life, as this can help to lessen, avoid, or at least postpone many issues. Unfortunately, we are not able to select our genetics so we need to do our best to care for ourselves. I am 67 and I realize that my clock is ticking down faster every day. ( Both of my parents died in their early 60s from health issues - stroke and cancer.) My mother's mother lived to 98, so we never know.
Ya know Rev there's so much quality TV programming these days I don't know why you wouldn't be happy just kickin back on the couch and enjoying life..... OH MAN! just about vomited in my mouth after sayin that! You're a total inspiration and living out your days as I hope to be able to in the near to far out future of my life. Take care of yourself and look forward to seeing what's next for you.
Hey Rev. Sorry to hear about the health problems. Glad yours still positive. I am an overweight 68 year old who had 4-way bypass 6 years ago, then started hiking again to lools weight & get in better shape. I started watching your videos & others & really appreciate the knowledge & inspiration. Thank you. I hiked much of the PCT this year, but had to drop out with back issues in Washington. Wouldn't change many things about my trip. Wonderful. Good Luck to you & looking forward to an update.
Thanks for sharing your story! I’ll be praying for your speedy recovery. I just finished the CT on 8/1 and often thought of your PCT journey. It was inspiring.
Thank you for taking the time to share your journey. Praying for a successful surgery and rapid recovery so you can return to the outdoors and continue to inspire so many of us !
You are in my prayers dear friend. I have giving you some information in the past about Health and Hard and all that. I’m pretty sure you remember me. It’s a good thing to hear you’re still hiking unenthusiastic about outdoor activities. I hope that one day, after your surgery, we can meet and go hike together some trail. Until then, be blessed and may the faith of Jesus Christ shine on you and please peace in your heart. God bless you.
Best wishes on your surgery, Rev. I'm tickled that you are worried about your hiking ability when going into a major surgery. I once had a major neck surgery, and it was sobering thing to hear the doc talking about the possible outcomes. Then I was hobbled for 13 years with ME/CFS and just returned to backpacking this year. A lesson I learned was that you can always make adjustments as long as you are not totally disabled or bed ridden. Good luck with your surgery and I'll look forward to seeing your next video.
Prayers for a quick and complete recovery. In 2018 I had a complete failure of my mitral valve. It was a genetic issue. Several chords had ruptured. I was sent to the Cleveland Clinic and they repaired my valve. In the process I learned I have zero blockages in my heart. No buildup at all. I was expecting bad news as heart disease runs in my family. I still exercise every day and hike as often as I can. And I thank the Lord for guiding the hands that cured me.
Got back into hiking/backpacking just before Covid. I have a similar "minor" problem that was noticed several years ago. Fortunately my doc has seen no growth, but it is on my mind occasionally. I'm 74 and other than slowing down a bit (one of your videos!) I'm doing fine. With the new medical procedures everything should work out fine! You'll be in my prayers. Us 'old guys' gotta stick together! All my best!👍
@@TheHikingRev Thank God for Medical advances!! My Grandmother had one at 89, back in the day, and her chances were 80% negative for surgery so she just lay in hospital and waited for the inevitable. Today's outcomes are much brighter!
Just got out of the back country and saw your latest video . My prayers go out to you for the coming surgery and a quick recovery. Videos like this are important to those of us who have issues but with the concurrence of our cardiologists keep doing what we love. Blood thinners for me are worrisome since I usually go solo. Were there any concerns expressed by your cardiologist about taking blood thinners and being in the back country where help may not be immediately available. All the best.
Thanks for the reply. I carry a coagulating wound dressing and since taking a fall in the scree a month ago i took it as a wakeup call and now stay very aware of my foot placement.
Good day Rev' ! Without sounding like a copycat I too had a heart attack just last Tuesday. It was also the right coronary. So, I had a stent put in and they also did my left due to some narrowing in it. To say your video is encouraging would be an understatement. I tried hiking the PCT this past Spring but had to quit due to nausea after only one week. I suspect my heart was trying to tell me something. Similar to you my issues are definitely hereditary. Now that I am home I feel fine, albeit with a slightly reduced energy level. Nothing would please me more than to get back out on trail next spring but let's see what the winter brings. Thank you again for posting this video it has certainly helped improve my disposition. Stay safe and God bless.
Hey…I feel your pain. It took me several months to recover and get back to normal hiking. JUST BE PATIENT! Your energy and stamina will come back…eventually.
Rev, Wow! Thank you for your update. Prayers arising for your smooth medical treatment and uneventful, smooth and complete recovery! Looking forward to your further videos and hearing your good news! All the best, Richard Curtis Japan
Oh Rev... My heart goes out to you. My husband had the exact same AAA. His was actually an accidental find. When it reached 2.4" he had the surgery done. All went well. He woke up, gave the nurses all their days. (Unlike you he lived a life of smoking, some drinking, a bad diet and a very high stress job in Afghanistan.), but he's out and about doing what he does best... Living life to the absolute fullest. I have absolute faith that you'll be doing the CDT next. (crossing fingers & #HikersDreams...🤞😇😊) All the best, you'll ACE this challenge!
5 weeks ago I had a surgery on Aortic Dissection, and very very luckily I survived and had a chance of near-full recovery! After regaining my spirit and endurance, I think of your video on heart attack and reviewed that as well as seeing this. Obviouly you recovers well from the aneurysm since there are quite a few recent videos you posted! It's very inspiring to me too! Best wish.
Thank you so much Broomhandle. I don’t think that my situation was as life-threatening as yours. Just be patient and you will be back doing the things that you enjoy doing.😁👍❤️
All the best to you in regard to the stint surgery, etc. Like you, I'm glad to know, provided that all goes well, you'll be able to continue your active lifestyle in the back country. I'm going on 69 years old, and I continue to do a good deal of backpacking, and I want to continue doing that as long as I am able. So I empathize with you, my friend. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers! You'll be back at it before you know it! Happy trails!
,Hi Rev hope you are feeling well after all your health problems.Its been wonderful looking and listening to you.I don't do much hiking myself now but I love looking and listening to hiking videos.I suppose I can hike along with the person involved.You have been a great inspiration to me especially seeing how positive a person you are.I have had a few problems myself in the last year and I struggle with the mental side more than the physical.Listening to you speak has inspired me so much.Bless you and may God give you the strength to hike for many years to come. Peter. ( Ireland)
Thank you Peter. I’ve often said that hiking is more mental than it is physical. As long as I can put one foot in front of the other, you can come hike with me anytime.
Rev. I just found your channel. I turned 68 a month ago and have decided to start hiking again as I have not really done it since I grew up on the ranch. You are such an inspiration. I will keep you in my prayers and thank you again. It just occurred to me that you know you are getting older when the term stoned has an entirely different meaning. Now for me it to my kidney stones and gall stones. Keep on truckin.
Rev, I'm praying for your healing and for wisdom for you to make good decisions. May God keep his hand on your life and on the lives of your family members!.
Wow. As a retired EMT, your recap certainly got my full attention! Several yrs ago I had a blackout while on my road bike resulting in a hip fx. Completed recovery within 3 mos to continue my annual BPing mainly due to over 70 yrs of being active. The psych of not been 100% sure of the cause was troubling. None of the tests were conclusive. Final Dx= vaso vagal event. By now I assume ur 3A procedure is over & ur planning more BP trips like I am 🤞🤞🤞
@@TheHikingRev Glad ur recovery is on track. Can’t let our (Senior) #s dwindle 😂. Only saw a handful at Trail Days. As a Snowbird, I’ll be in the SW by Nov looking for training hikes until April. Interested? Maybe Marmalade & Hammer will join in 👏🤞
I had a similar experience. I finished the PCT in 2018 and in 2019 experienced ocassional shortness of breath. We were traveling around the East coast and I had attributed it to the humidity. Fortunately I eventually listened to my wife and we went to emergency at a hospital in Lake Placid, NY. They immediately sent me off to a bigger hospital in Plattsburgh, NY where within 3 hours and after an 80 mile ambulance ride I then possesed two stents that corrected two 99% blockages on my central heart arteries. The next morning I was released and I drove back to California. Not at all what I thought a heart attack was like. No pain before , during , or after. Love modern health science. Happy trails!
Hey Rev! I am an avid hiker in Virginia and I just had my first (and last) heart attack. Thanks for being an inspiration as I will keep on hiking! See you on the trail!!
Best wishes to you. I am 67 and have had three heart attacks over the last 17 years. 3 stents in 2005, triple bypass in 2017, and another stent in 2021. I was told after the first heart attack that before the next heart attack, I would have similar symptoms to what I had before the first heart attack. This has been true. So pay attention in the future. Doing so has kept me alive. In 2017 I told the cardiologist I had a problem. They did tests and said you are fine. I insisted that I wasn't. Because I had a heart history they agreed to send me in for a angioplasty. On the table the Doctor said Oh my, this isn't going to work, (not really what you want to hear). So they transported me to another hospital for the open heart bypass. You may know you have an issue before your Doctor does. I asked the Doctor why different people have different symptoms during a heart attack. They said that there are no pain sensors in the heart, so it sends a chemical signal for something else to hurt or show symptoms. Different people will have a different reaction, but for them it will tend to be the same each time. My symptoms were similar to yours with shortness of breath and a burning sensation in my lungs. After a fall on ice I also had blood in my urine. I had tests done and never got a conclusive answer, (there are like 15 different things that can cause it). It has not returned, so will have to hope for the best.
We so appreciate your channel and all your super helpful advice. We’ll be thinking of you and your family, and hope that everything goes successfully with your upcoming surgery so that you can get back to doing what you love ASAP!
One of my best friends had the same procedure done. All went well and he is back to hiking and kayaking and feeling fine. I hope yours is just as successful!
![Heart Surgeon's Shocking Red Meat Opinion! [Phillip Ovadia, MD]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/FT18fL9OopQ/mqdefault.jpg)
As a 66 yr old hiker and wanna be solo backpacker - you have truly been an inspiration. Best wishes to you through your upcoming surgery, Rev. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Thanks. Hopefully after surgery (which went well) and recovery, I’ll be able to be back out on the trail. I’ve got some great plans for next backpacking season.
Rev, It sure seems that you have been blessed many times through life - ministry(s), wife, family, friends, hiking, backpacking, running out of steam on a 4 mile out-and-back trek, etc. We all pray for your successful procedure and speedy recovery.
Thank you John. Yes I’ve been blessed.
Michael, please make sure you keep the Class of 71 updated on your upcoming surgery! It was great seeing you at the reunion last April and we want to see you at the birthday party next year !! Sending you good thoughts and lots of positive energy! Mary J.
Thanks Mary. I will definitely keep you updated.
Wow Rev. You're an inspiration. You've got my prayers for a successful surgery and a full and speedy recovery 🙏!
Thank you so much. That means so much to me.👍
Your story is inspirational. In January 2023 I was taken by ambulance after a heart attack to place a stent in an artery that the doc said was 99.9% blocked. It was a life-or-death situation, but I am fine now and in May 2023 I set foot in Hawaii Volcanoes, Haleakala, and the National Park of American Samoa to complete my bucket list of seeing all 63 US national parks. God is good-- all the time! May He continue to bless you with adventures in His amazing creation.
Wow…that is amazing! Thanks Thomas. Only those who have had a myocardial infarction can appreciate the possibility of a second chance at life. 😁
I too wound up having heart issues. I didn’t have a heart attack but I did end up having a triple bypass. It was during my recovery that I decided to go back to doing what I love to do, backpacking. I had not been backpacking since the early 1990’s.
This happened in April of 2021. I’m planning my first ever thru hike this fall.
Life is what we make of it. What could have been a killer of life turned out to be a life changer.
Thank you for all the great video’s. I’m praying all goes well for you.
Thanks. Congrats. I hope your Thruhike goes well. “Life is what we make of it.“ So true!
I have, and will continue to pray for you and the medical staff.
Thank you so much. That means a lot to me.
Glad to hear you are recovering, Rev. Im just a bit older than you are with 4 TIAs under my belt and I know how stamina becomes a real worry. Sending good wishes. "If we live we are the Lord's and if we die, we are the Lord's. So whether we live or die, we are the Lord's." This is good to know!
Thanks Wendy. Great encouraging scripture.
You are inspiring to all us seniors! I’m 75 as on the 2nd. I keep on trucking with hikes and E-biking. Take care Rev!❤
My Prayers are with you Rev. Like many of your subscribers I am your age. Our lifestyles are similar and as I grow older I realize how important it is for me to spend time on the trail. Your positive attitude truly inspires me. I seize every day that I'm hiking/backpacking. This is a WONDERFUL video. I cannot thank you enough for sharing. I am certain you have thousands of trail miles ahead of you. God bless and Hike On.
Thank you so much for the encouragement Bill.
As a ‘hiking rev’ myself (retired pastor from Seattle who hikes almost daily in the summer and skis daily in the winter), I’m on your team!! Prayers for your healing, and I’d love to send you a book I write about hiking through the Alps 8 years ago, from Italy to Germany, called “The Map is not the Journey” - I’m just trying to find a way to reach you!! All the best friend!
Thank you Richard. My mailing address is; 6382 Arlington Blvd., Richmond, CA 94805.
You are an encouraging light at the end of that mountain. Stay strong mate, you've miles to go yet. Greetings & prays from Australia.
Thank you so much Unfi 6798 for your greetings and prayers from Australia.😁👍❤️
Hey Rev, what an inspiration you are. I just climbed Mt Katahdin at age 67. Inwardly I wonder how long I can keep this up. I draw a lotta confidence from your videos and hope we have many years of hiking ahead of us. Take good care and I'll see you on the trail
Thanks Nolan. Congrats on your climb. 👍
You and I share a similar story. I’ve never been a long distance hiker but rather one that covers maybe 5 - 7 miles a day. Fortunately I live in an area where this is easy to accomplish. In July, I was on the North Country Trail in the Allegheny National Forest. It was then I knew there was a problem. I began seeking medical treatment but was getting nowhere with our local healthcare providers. Well, on September 24, 2023, I had a heart attack. Now, one blockage and one stent later I am back at it at 62 years of age. Only 3 weeks after the placing of the stent, I went solo on a 17 mile two nighter. My wife wasn’t too thrilled about it but I approached it cautiously and had no problems. I’m still not a high mileage guy but those few miles are better than no miles. Thanks for sharing your experience. You are an inspiration indeed.
Hey David. Great story! My wife wasn’t too excited either. I guess that’s why God gave them to us. 😁
My Brother, in times of trouble we can be assured of the intervention of our amazing Father in Heaven. Whats more, its not down to us but down to His unfailing promise. Psalm 91 says this
Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;
I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
He will call on me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honour him.
With long life I will satisfy him
and show him my salvation.”
Hold on to this my friend. for God is for you and not against you.
Blessings
Dave
Thanks Dave. Great Scripture! One of my favorites…Psalms 91. 👍
Positive thoughts for you Rev ✨️
Thanks. 👍
I’m glad you’re taking care of yourself.
We’ll keep you in our thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery.✌️
Thanks.👍
I had a triple A repaired 5 years ago now and feel as healthy as before. Hike many times in a week and bike over 1000 miles a year mine was the size of a pop can and extended up and beyond both braches going to the kidneys as well. A special stint was ordered from Australia and the surgery went well and I was back out and about in a couple weeks. All this was done 5 years ago and I'm now 73 years old. The best thing you could do for your health.
Wow. Good for you.😁
You will be fine, sir! Get well and looking forward to more inspirational videos.
Thanks for the encouragement.👍
I will be praying for you. I am 83 and hike up Kennesaw Mountain 3 times a week and just had 4 stints in arteries leading to my heart. I in the past have done a lot of backpacking as you have and that also probably saved my life. Good luck and God bless you.
Thanks James. I think you’re right. 😁
You encourage me as I have a family history of heart disease as well. While taking a break from PCT visiting son I had an incident of A-fib serious enough to be hospitalized. It destroyed my confidence in my physical body and they took months to do a stress test and clear me to hike again. Now I have to get back in shape and convince my family I am okay enough to hike alone or at least with another person. I am hoping to return to the trail next year and give it another go.
I’ve learned to just keep putting one foot in front of the other…if you can.
Many prayers headed your way. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Thanks Patty.👍
The best of luck with your operation. Hope you are back on the trail soon. You inspire all us “codgers”!
Hey Michael. Yeah us codgers need to stick together.,
Hi Rev,
I am a 70-year-old hiker who was told I had blockages in the smaller vessels in my heart that were causing me exhaustion during hilly tracts. The cardiologist told me my body had grown some new vessels that bypassed the blocked ones. I informed the doctor that it was God's hand that did it, not this old body. My vessels were too small to install stints. The cardiologist said to take the nitroglycerine tablets he gave me when I hike the Foothills Trail next month (77-mile hike) and if possible the AT in late March (2023). Of course, I'll be sick as a dog to ever take one of the tablets
I am praying for your health daily and I hope you are able to safely keep hiking.
Thank you Phil. That is amazing.
Keep on keeping on Rev! You are in my prayers.
Thanks Craig.👍
Praying for you Rev and hoping for a speedy recovery. You have been my inspiration to start my PCT hike hopefully when I retire at age 62. Hope to see you on the trail someday! God Bless!
Perhaps soon. Thanks Brian.
Praying for your successful medical procedure and a complete recovery. The hiking community needs your inspirational travels. 🙏
Happy Trails. 👍
Thank you Mark.
Thanks for explaining this, Rev, it's amazing you were able to return from your heart attack so quickly and now this aortic issue. You've got this handled and I'll be here quietly watching when you're back.
I hope it’s just a temporary setback.
Prayers coming your way!🙏
Thanks Larry. That means so much.👍
Here's wishing you a speedy recovery, Rev.
Thanks.👍
Prayers and best wishes to you, Rev. Looking forward to your future videos. Take care and God bless.
Thanks Bob.👍
My moms brother died from the same thing. He never knew it was an issue. This happens in 1977 and then my mom and her two siblings were tested for the issue. My moms sister and brother both had the issue and they both had the same procedure performed. They never had any issues after that. Last year I got checked for the same issue and tested fine. I am happy you got a warning, my uncle did not. It happened much like a heartache. My dad had a massive heart attack back in the 70s and they performed a triple bypass, he never had any issues with his heart. I am wishing you the best. Take care
Thank you Scott. Yeah, my AAA was found by “accident.”
Praying for you Rev. We’ve never met but I appreciate your videos as a fellow “older” hiker. 🙏🏼❤️
Thanks Cristine. Perhaps maybe we will meet on a trail one day.
Godspeed Rev. My thoughts and prayers for you. Pura Vida!
Thanks. 👍
Praying for you. I'm 70 yrs old now and you are someone I will try to follow. God bless you and have a great recovery.
Thank you. I’m doing good now. I just completed a 350 mile Thruhike of the Pinhoti Trail. No problems. 😁
Wow Rev, again quite the story! You are such an inspiration to me to always try to get back on the trail, even with health problems. Sending my very best wishes to you and hoping for a speedy recovery. I’d love to see you on the trail, but I’ll wave to you from across the pond.
Thanks. I’ll wave back to you from the side of the pond. They keep patching me up and I keep getting back out on the trail.
Hi Rev, I’m sorry that I just got to view this video. I truly hope that you are well and continue to hike moderately. My family doesn’t have a history of heart issues but unfortunately I smoked years back (2pkg/day) which I did develop asthma. I stopped smoking about 30+ yrs ago but the damage was done. I do carry an inhaler but only for emergencies. Since then, I do hike moderately to stay active. Rev, I’ll keep you in my thoughts and prayers as you continue to get stronger in the 2024. Bless you and Mrs. Rev🙏🫶
Thank you Dave. I’m doing good now. So far, so good. 😁
I know this is a year old and you are well past the AAA surgery so I hope things went well on that front. My dad had one when he was in his late 60's and he had to have emergency surgery as his was at the danger point. But the doctor said his was caused by his heavy smoking habit. That is the leading cause but also contributing is over 65 white males plus heredity. All that being said, you have renewed my drive to get out this year for my first backpacking trip on the AT at age 70. You and hikers like Grandma Gatewood and Nimblewill Nomad are my inspiration. Happy Trails!
Thanks. My cardiologist said that my heart and vascular issues were strictly hereditary. Neither diet or lifestyle had anything to do with the problems. As long as you’re in good physical shape…go for it.😁
You are an inspiration Rev!! Many thoughts and 🙏s for a full speedy recovery.
Thanks Bruce.
Rev - I've only just come to your chanel as I recover from a stroke. I'm 66 yrs of age and learning to walk again. You walking and back packing inspire me to push my rehab hard and get out on trails here in New Zealand. All the best for surgery and I wait with interest your rehab walking plans. Stay strong ( in the native New Zealand Maori language "Kia Kaha " stay strong ").
Thanks David. I hope you recover and mend quickly.
I’d love to do the Te Araroa in New Zealand one day. 😁👍❤️
Well! As you probably faintly recall, I hike too but in SC and NC. The Sierra Nevadas are coming late fall '22. And for me to now know that you presently have 3 stents, we are in the same "club" as I have 3 stents in my heart area as well! You will surpass me in a couple of weeks and in a way you'll leave me behind having more stents than me. But seriously, you will be in the best hands for your procedure with the best Physician watching over it all! Amen to that, Rev! Praying for you daily now. May God continue to bless you and those you touch with your heartfelt words of encouragement. We're all looking forward to you putting this surgery behind you. See you down the trail!
Thank you David. After this next procedure I’m just going to ask the doctor “What’s next?”
So sorry to hear about your health struggles Rev. You will be in my thoughts and my family prayers as you go through this procedure and recovery. You are such an inspiration to us all and I hope to see you down the trail soon.
Thank you John. I hope that this is just a temporary setback.
Good luck to sir on your upcoming surgery. It is humbling to do things to maintain health - hike, bike, exercise and eat healthy, and still be impacted by heath problems. However, it is much better to try to live a basically healthy life, as this can help to lessen, avoid, or at least postpone many issues.
Unfortunately, we are not able to select our genetics so we need to do our best to care for ourselves. I am 67 and I realize that my clock is ticking down faster every day. ( Both of my parents died in their early 60s from health issues - stroke and cancer.) My mother's mother lived to 98, so we never know.
Thanks. So true. 👍
Ya know Rev there's so much quality TV programming these days I don't know why you wouldn't be happy just kickin back on the couch and enjoying life..... OH MAN! just about vomited in my mouth after sayin that! You're a total inspiration and living out your days as I hope to be able to in the near to far out future of my life. Take care of yourself and look forward to seeing what's next for you.
Thanks Jon. Hopefully this is just a “bump in the road.”
Hey Rev. Sorry to hear about the health problems. Glad yours still positive. I am an overweight 68 year old who had 4-way bypass 6 years ago, then started hiking again to lools weight & get in better shape. I started watching your videos & others & really appreciate the knowledge & inspiration. Thank you.
I hiked much of the PCT this year, but had to drop out with back issues in Washington. Wouldn't change many things about my trip. Wonderful.
Good Luck to you & looking forward to an update.
Thanks Bruce. Perhaps you can finish next year.
Rev!! Glad to hear the ticker is doing okay. Praying for you to have a good surgery and speedy recovery.
Thanks.👍
Sending prayers your way Rev that all goes well tomorrow. Praying you have a speedy recovery and that you will back on trail soon. 🙏❤️
Thank you Dorinda.
Thanks for sharing your story! I’ll be praying for your speedy recovery. I just finished the CT on 8/1 and often thought of your PCT journey. It was inspiring.
Thank you Timothy. Congratulations on your CT journey.
Thank you for taking the time to share your journey. Praying for a successful surgery and rapid recovery so you can return to the outdoors and continue to inspire so many of us !
You’re welcome Mary.
Best of luck young man. I am sure all will go well and you will be back on the trail soon.
Thanks Tom. I hope so.👍
You are in my prayers dear friend. I have giving you some information in the past about Health and Hard and all that. I’m pretty sure you remember me. It’s a good thing to hear you’re still hiking unenthusiastic about outdoor activities. I hope that one day, after your surgery, we can meet and go hike together some trail. Until then, be blessed and may the faith of Jesus Christ shine on you and please peace in your heart. God bless you.
Thank you so much. You’re very kind.
Best wishes on your surgery, Rev. I'm tickled that you are worried about your hiking ability when going into a major surgery. I once had a major neck surgery, and it was sobering thing to hear the doc talking about the possible outcomes. Then I was hobbled for 13 years with ME/CFS and just returned to backpacking this year. A lesson I learned was that you can always make adjustments as long as you are not totally disabled or bed ridden.
Good luck with your surgery and I'll look forward to seeing your next video.
Thank you TK. I realize that one day I won’t not be able to do what I can do today. I just hope it’s not tomorrow.
Prayers for a quick and complete recovery. In 2018 I had a complete failure of my mitral valve. It was a genetic issue. Several chords had ruptured. I was sent to the Cleveland Clinic and they repaired my valve. In the process I learned I have zero blockages in my heart. No buildup at all. I was expecting bad news as heart disease runs in my family. I still exercise every day and hike as often as I can. And I thank the Lord for guiding the hands that cured me.
Yes. That’s great Charles. Thanks.
Wishing you all the best and a speedy recovery Rev, glad you're being looked after and hope to see out on the trail next year sometime take care
Thanks Ewan. I look forward to it, my friend. 👍
Thanks for the update HR from Klamath Falls Oregon
Thanks David.👍
Got back into hiking/backpacking just before Covid. I have a similar "minor" problem that was noticed several years ago. Fortunately my doc has seen no growth, but it is on my mind occasionally. I'm 74 and other than slowing down a bit (one of your videos!) I'm doing fine.
With the new medical procedures everything should work out fine!
You'll be in my prayers. Us 'old guys' gotta stick together! All my best!👍
Thanks Dennis. Yes. It’s always on my mind as well. I felt like a ticking time bomb.
@@TheHikingRev Thank God for Medical advances!!
My Grandmother had one at 89, back in the day, and her chances were 80% negative for surgery so she just lay in hospital and waited for the inevitable.
Today's outcomes are much brighter!
Gods Got This!!!! Lifting you up in prayers for total healing! Said a prayer before posting this!!!!
Thank you Stephen. You are very kind.
I pray your surgery goes well and you’re back in the outdoors soon. 🙏🏻
Thanks Rodney. 👍
Just got out of the back country and saw your latest video . My prayers go out to you for the coming surgery and a quick recovery. Videos like this are important to those of us who have issues but with the concurrence of our cardiologists keep doing what we love. Blood thinners for me are worrisome since I usually go solo. Were there any concerns expressed by your cardiologist about taking blood thinners and being in the back country where help may not be immediately available. All the best.
Thanks George. Yes blood thinners or a big concern to the cardiologist. But he told me to be careful
Thanks for the reply. I carry a coagulating wound dressing and since taking a fall in the scree a month ago i took it as a wakeup call and now stay very aware of my foot placement.
Wishing you speedy recovery ❤️🩹
Thanks Eva. 👍
Good day Rev' ! Without sounding like a copycat I too had a heart attack just last Tuesday. It was also the right coronary. So, I had a stent put in and they also did my left due to some narrowing in it. To say your video is encouraging would be an understatement. I tried hiking the PCT this past Spring but had to quit due to nausea after only one week. I suspect my heart was trying to tell me something. Similar to you my issues are definitely hereditary. Now that I am home I feel fine, albeit with a slightly reduced energy level. Nothing would please me more than to get back out on trail next spring but let's see what the winter brings. Thank you again for posting this video it has certainly helped improve my disposition. Stay safe and God bless.
Hey…I feel your pain. It took me several months to recover and get back to normal hiking. JUST BE PATIENT! Your energy and stamina will come back…eventually.
Godspeed, Rev. I'll be praying for your complete recovery.
Thanks. 👍
My thoughts are with you! Stay strong and wishing you a speedy recovery!
Thanks Jason. 👍
Rev,
Wow! Thank you for your update. Prayers arising for your smooth medical treatment and uneventful, smooth and complete recovery! Looking forward to your further videos and hearing your good news!
All the best,
Richard Curtis
Japan
Thank you so much Richard. You’re very kind.
We've picked up backpacking at 50 and your channel has helped quite a bit, thank you Rev.
You’re welcome. I’m glad I could help.
Please keep us posted and know while I'm hiking in the sacred Sierra or just around our block I will pray for you. Tim
Thank you Tim. And I will keep everyone posted.
Oh Rev... My heart goes out to you.
My husband had the exact same AAA. His was actually an accidental find. When it reached 2.4" he had the surgery done.
All went well. He woke up, gave the nurses all their days. (Unlike you he lived a life of smoking, some drinking, a bad diet and a very high stress job in Afghanistan.), but he's out and about doing what he does best... Living life to the absolute fullest.
I have absolute faith that you'll be doing the CDT next. (crossing fingers & #HikersDreams...🤞😇😊)
All the best, you'll ACE this challenge!
Thanks so much Steph. That is very encouraging to hear. 👍
I will be praying for a successful surgery and recovery. look forward to seeing you back on the trail.
Thanks Bob. 👍
Pray all goes well
Thank you.👍
5 weeks ago I had a surgery on Aortic Dissection, and very very luckily I survived and had a chance of near-full recovery! After regaining my spirit and endurance, I think of your video on heart attack and reviewed that as well as seeing this. Obviouly you recovers well from the aneurysm since there are quite a few recent videos you posted! It's very inspiring to me too! Best wish.
Thank you so much Broomhandle. I don’t think that my situation was as life-threatening as yours. Just be patient and you will be back doing the things that you enjoy doing.😁👍❤️
All the best to you in regard to the stint surgery, etc. Like you, I'm glad to know, provided that all goes well, you'll be able to continue your active lifestyle in the back country. I'm going on 69 years old, and I continue to do a good deal of backpacking, and I want to continue doing that as long as I am able. So I empathize with you, my friend. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers! You'll be back at it before you know it! Happy trails!
Thank you Charles.👍
Prayers for a full recovery Rev from trekkers down under
Thanks.
Praying for you Rev. Richard in Houston
Thank you Dick.
Pulling for ya Rev! And look forward to your recent hike recap. Be well!
Thanks Lisa.
Keep Pushing Thru Rev! Way to stay positive and strong!! 🙏👣🙏👣🙏
Thanks Manny. You are a great inspiration to me.
,Hi Rev hope you are feeling well after all your health problems.Its been wonderful looking and listening to you.I don't do much hiking myself now but I love looking and listening to hiking videos.I suppose I can hike along with the person involved.You have been a great inspiration to me especially seeing how positive a person you are.I have had a few problems myself in the last year and I struggle with the mental side more than the physical.Listening to you speak has inspired me so much.Bless you and may God give you the strength to hike for many years to come.
Peter. ( Ireland)
Thank you Peter. I’ve often said that hiking is more mental than it is physical. As long as I can put one foot in front of the other, you can come hike with me anytime.
@@TheHikingRev Thank you so much Rev.Who knows we might meet up one day.God bless.🙏🙏
Wishing you the best Hiking Rev and looking forward to seeing you back on the trail.
Thanks. 👍
Rev. I just found your channel. I turned 68 a month ago and have decided to start hiking again as I have not really done it since I grew up on the ranch. You are such an inspiration. I will keep you in my prayers and thank you again. It just occurred to me that you know you are getting older when the term stoned has an entirely different meaning. Now for me it to my kidney stones and gall stones. Keep on truckin.
😂😂😂Thanks. It’s definitely tough getting old. 😁
Oh my gosh, sorry to hear about your health troubles. I hope you recover quickly and hang in there - the trail will still be there when you're ready!
Thanks Karen. I’ll have to ease back into it.
Rev, I'm praying for your healing and for wisdom for you to make good decisions. May God keep his hand on your life and on the lives of your family members!.
Thank you very much.
Prayers from my wife and I . Get healthy and rebuild your body🙏🙏🙏💜
Thanks Miles.👍
Wow. As a retired EMT, your recap certainly got my full attention! Several yrs ago I had a blackout while on my road bike resulting in a hip fx. Completed recovery within 3 mos to continue my annual BPing mainly due to over 70 yrs of being active. The psych of not been 100% sure of the cause was troubling. None of the tests were conclusive. Final Dx= vaso vagal event.
By now I assume ur 3A procedure is over & ur planning more BP trips like I am 🤞🤞🤞
Yes. The procedure went well and I’m back at the gym now easing back into my exercise regimen working on my endurance and stamina.
@@TheHikingRev Glad ur recovery is on track. Can’t let our (Senior) #s dwindle 😂. Only saw a handful at Trail Days. As a Snowbird, I’ll be in the SW by Nov looking for training hikes until April. Interested? Maybe Marmalade & Hammer will join in 👏🤞
Thoughts and Prayers for a successful procedure and speedy recovery Reverend...may His grace and mercy abound thru you!!!
Thank you so much.
Brother you will be in my thoughts and prayers for a successful surgery and recovery.
Thanks Lee. You’re very kind.👍
🙏 Praying for you Rev! Wishing you a speedy recovery and return to the trails. ⛺
Thank you. 👍
Best wishes and look forward to hearing from you after surgery!
Thanks Ralf. 👍
That stent will make you feel so much better! Praying for you and the docs.
Thanks Matt. I’m doing good so far.
Prayers for a quick recovery 🙏🙏🙏
Thank you Mark.
I had a similar experience. I finished the PCT in 2018 and in 2019 experienced ocassional shortness of breath. We were traveling around the East coast and I had attributed it to the humidity. Fortunately I eventually listened to my wife and we went to emergency at a hospital in Lake Placid, NY. They immediately sent me off to a bigger hospital in Plattsburgh, NY where within 3 hours and after an 80 mile ambulance ride I then possesed two stents that corrected two 99% blockages on my central heart arteries. The next morning I was released and I drove back to California. Not at all what I thought a heart attack was like. No pain before , during , or after. Love modern health science. Happy trails!
Thanks. Same experience. No chest pain just no energy running out of gas.
God has got you 🙌 a walking miracle ❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️praying for your health
Thank you very much.
Prayers for your upcoming surgery. May God guide the hands of those caring for you and give you a full recovery. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Thank you so much Ann. That means a lot to me.
Hey Rev! I am an avid hiker in Virginia and I just had my first (and last) heart attack. Thanks for being an inspiration as I will keep on hiking! See you on the trail!!
You’re welcome Anthony. …last heart attack?
Yes, I will take all precautions to never have another, as you know it sucks having a heart attack.
Best wishes to you. I am 67 and have had three heart attacks over the last 17 years. 3 stents in 2005, triple bypass in 2017, and another stent in 2021. I was told after the first heart attack that before the next heart attack, I would have similar symptoms to what I had before the first heart attack. This has been true. So pay attention in the future. Doing so has kept me alive. In 2017 I told the cardiologist I had a problem. They did tests and said you are fine. I insisted that I wasn't. Because I had a heart history they agreed to send me in for a angioplasty. On the table the Doctor said Oh my, this isn't going to work, (not really what you want to hear). So they transported me to another hospital for the open heart bypass. You may know you have an issue before your Doctor does.
I asked the Doctor why different people have different symptoms during a heart attack. They said that there are no pain sensors in the heart, so it sends a chemical signal for something else to hurt or show symptoms. Different people will have a different reaction, but for them it will tend to be the same each time. My symptoms were similar to yours with shortness of breath and a burning sensation in my lungs.
After a fall on ice I also had blood in my urine. I had tests done and never got a conclusive answer, (there are like 15 different things that can cause it). It has not returned, so will have to hope for the best.
Thank you Danny. That is great information.
Hi Rev, I am praying for a successful surgery and great healing. You are in His hands. You are in my thoughts.
Thank you so much Betty that means a lot to me.
Thank you for sharing, keep hiking! God will be with you.
Thank you very much. 😁
We so appreciate your channel and all your super helpful advice. We’ll be thinking of you and your family, and hope that everything goes successfully with your upcoming surgery so that you can get back to doing what you love ASAP!
Thank you Katherine. You’re very kind.
One of my best friends had the same procedure done. All went well and he is back to hiking and kayaking and feeling fine. I hope yours is just as successful!
Hopefully it is just a minor setback and a speed bump on the trail.
Prayers for a speedy recovery.
Thanks Eric.
You will be okay with Gods help & your doctors. Keep up updated!
I will. Thanks. 👍
🙏 Looking forward to you getting back out on the trail!
Thanks Andy. I’ll get back out there as soon as I can.
I am grateful for the inspiration that I receive from your journeys, physical and spiritual! Thank you. You are in good hands! 🙏🙏
Thanks Joyce. 👍