So glad you pulled through Tim! Seeing those ER scenes made me have flash backs to when I was also on the ER bed with my HOKAs still on (I had a PE this summer). Stay strong with the recovery and I wish you and your family all the best!
Thank you so much for sharing and being so vulnerable with us, Tim. I can’t imagine how hard this experience has been for you and your entire family. You’re an inspiration to all of us who follow your + Rinny’s journeys, and we’re so grateful that you’re doing alright.
Hey Tim, I was on the other side of this. My dad passed away from a Heart Attack at the age of 46. From no symptoms, strong person, never complained about aches or pains. One day he woke up in the middle of the night, told my mom to take him to the hospital, he walked towards the closet in his room to get his clothes, and didn’t make it. I gave him CPR for a long time before the ambulance got to our house. He was gone before he made it to the hospital. It’s tough to have to go through. Thank you for sharing and I’m glad you were given a second chance at life. Sending prayers to you to keep recovering and getting healthier and to your family. God bless.
In our sport, we are continually told winners “ignore the pain” because “the brain is weak”. Your story highlights that it’s not always best to ignore the signs that something is wrong and if it kickstarts a wider discussion you’ll have done a lot of good by sharing it. Thanks - and all the best to you and the family, Tim.
In 2014, at the age of 54, 65 miles into an 80 mile routine bike ride, had a heart attack at the Seal Beach Pier in southern California. 90% blockage of the LAD. In to health center on a Saturday, stent put in on sunday morning, and released Monday afternoon. Advised NO hard activity for a month, then start easy, and listen to your body. 3 months later I was back to where I was before the attack, and 6 months later, better than EVER! Had ridden the San Diego Century in May of 2014, Heart Attack in August of 2014, and back to do the San Diego Century in June of 2015, beating my previous time by 20 minutes. Am now celebrating 7 years since the attack on the 23rd of August, 2021. Am cycling longer and stronger than ever, off ALL meds except baby asperin every morning. Wish you the best. Thanks for sharing.
Tim, I had the exact same thing happen to me 2 1/2 years ago. 80% blockage in my LAD (widow maker) that landed me in the hospital with a heart attack. The last thing I ever imagined I'd face at 47 years old. So thankful I'm also one of the ones who beat the odds. I'm now at the point I will carefully ramp my training back up and compete in a 70.3 race next year. You obviously don't know me, but you and your family are well loved and respected and I'm so thankful you are still with us. Lots of good thoughts sent your way.
Tim and Rinny (and kids) - it takes courage to share a vulnerable part of yourself, especially to the entire world. Good on you for having the stones to share this! In March of 2020, one year exactly before your event, I went for my first training run (for a 70.3 that was later cancelled) after having been ill for a couple of weeks. Turns out it was COVID, and turns out I suffered a severe pulmonary embolism. While I can't say I've been exactly where you've been, I absolutely know the feeling of being stuck in an ER, suddenly weak and mortal when just yesterday you were the most fit in the room. The look on your face and the quiver in your voice hit me like a dump truck, because I know the worry and shock you felt as a dad and as a husband. Despite the shock of it, I'm very happy to see someone with a global platform share this story. It can only help others, including myself, to have that new perspective on life you speak about. My story is over a year old now and I'm back, in better shape than ever and ready for that deferred 70.3 to happen next month in Washington. You'll be back, and I can't wait to hear about your journey. Best of luck to you and your family!
@@TOinTRI Thank you Tim and Colin for sharing your stories. Isn't it crazy how quickly our lives can suddenly change. It's a sobering wake up call for all of us that our health can never be taken for granted, no matter how seemingly fit we are. Life _is_ a gift indeed! Tim I look forward more than ever to hearing updates from you and your lovely family, especially your new perspective on life and how that possibly changes/shapes things for you going forward. Also would value and appreciate any insights you may wish to share in the future with regard to heart health (that you've learned). We celebrate you and thankful you came through this strong and healthy. You clearly have a greater purpose and much more to do! (edit: none more important of course than being a husband and father to your precious family). Take care 💗 🙏
Thank you for sharing your story. I had a similar experience while competing in triathlons. I was diagnosed with Atrial Fribilation. I had 3 cardio ablations procedures done in the last 7 years and finally thank God my heart is in stable condition now and without the need of taking any medications. My Electrophysiologist and cardiologist had advised me to stop pushing myself and do everything in moderation. I'm 58 and just started learning how to longboard surfing. I still miss racing the local races here in Socal. The hard part is not being able to push me because of my competitive personality. but I'm just totally grateful that I can still enjoy exercising but everything in moderation. I'm still here with my lovely family and very blessed. Life is good! take care of yourself and your beautiful Family. \m/
Take care Tim, You guys are legends of our sport and wonderful people, with the most awesome little ones. Health is the most important thing we have this was a hard watch and love how positive you both are, hope the recovery goes well and just take care man. Thoughts with you all. God bless
Glad to hear you survived. I had exactly the same episode on the 31 January 2021 in a sprint triathlon finishing with a big PB but had weird fluttering in my heart while on the bike. My friend and training partner took me to the ER where they diagnosed the blockage and a stent was put in. Unfortunately my mate who saved me, suffered the same episode on the 6th March 2021 at a half distance race 13km into the run collapsed and died. All the best with your recovery, your perspective on life certainly changes and I also have been pushing Heart Health Checks to anyone who will listen.
Hi Tim, I was a very modest triathlete in the 80s, avid biker, and I suffered a severe heart attack at the age of 36 year old, in France. I remember me literally smiling at the ER doctor when he told me I just had a heart attack. I really thought he was kidding. It was the last thing I could expect considering the physical condition I was in at the time. I also remember a little bit later asking another doctor what would be my life expectancy. Of course, he wouldn't give me an answer. Well, I turned 60 4 days ago, and I'm doing very good. The myocardial necrosis left me with a good portion of my heart ineffective, but I still can run, bike, and swim faster than the majority of guys my age. Don't worry, we can still do surprising things with half a heart! 🤣 I wish you a speedy recovery!
A friend of mine lost his dad due to a heart attack while the dad was cycling alone. He was also your age and loved cycling. Thank you for sharing your story.
Tim (and Rinny & fam), I wish I could give more than a "thumbs up" to your story and message. You are two pros who have been so gracious and welcoming when I have seen you at races, that if something had had happened...I can't begin to explain how devastating that would be to this and many of your other fans. Please take care of yourself and know that your fans are in your corner all the way. #blessed.
Unbelievable. My stomach was just churning the whole time, choking up watching this, hearing how close a call that was for you. So thankful for you and your amazing family that you dodged this one. Dude powers through to finish the race (whether that was smart or not is up to debate, lol). But eventually you listened to your body. ;) Hug those kids and that partner every chance you get, because you never know. Nothing but love and support for you all!
Tim, I know exactly what you went through. I had My LAD blown out on the operating table and was put on the heart machine for 3 days in an induced coma. August 25, 2011 i was 49 . I went in for a minor stent and ended up with the LAD blowout on the table. Glad you and I can see our families. Enjoy you blessed days ahead. PS 5 years later i did a 70.3 with my Cardiologists blessing.
Tim, always enjoyed your videos, thanks so much for sharing. Your video could not have been posted at a better time. I was just diagnosed with blockage in my LAD and I'm going in to have a stent installed at the end of the month. I was in a bit of denial of my condition. Cardiologist said because I'm in shape, the blockage was difficult to detect since I don't have any of the symptoms such as shortness of breath and tiredness. Said "you're in the best shape but, you can't escape genetics." I thank you for this video because it really hit home the seriousness of my condition. I look forward to seeing your journey to recovery and if you desire, your return to racing again. It'll be my inspiration since I really enjoy training and racing. Best wishes...
I was just at Boulder 70.3 and was hoping to see you on the course. Now I understand why I did not. I’m sure it was difficult for you and Rinny to open your home to the world, thank you for doing so. You’re a very lucky man!! Wishing you a speedy, and full recovery!!!
Thank you for sharing your experiencing, Tim. You're very courageous, friend. You said it well - life is a gift. Your experience has caused me explore with yet another physician heart issues of my own. Congestive heart failure runs in my family. My Dad's dad died from it at 53. I've been having a multitude of symptoms since March 2011 that I initially thought was an intestinal disorder. But, after seeing nothing amiss, the GI doctors just said it's IBS (because they really didn't know what was going on). Have been active my whole life. Experienced an uptick in health went going vegetarian over 10 years ago. Health was at its peak at the end of September 2010 after finishing Branson 70.3. Went to the medical tent after the race because I did not feel well. The EMT gave me two IV bags of sodium chloride because I had hyponatremia (diluted sodium levels) and blood pressure was like 60 over 40. I was also nauseous, had a swollen abdomen and lost my appetite. After the IV, I felt amazing. All the symptoms dissipated. Six months later while out for a bike ride, something felt heavy in the area between my sternum and navel. Weight increased 15 pounds in a month. Over the years, some doctors thought it was IBS, but no amount of various diets, supplements, mental therapy, etc. gave relief or resolved it completely. Weight gradually increased and body got thicker overall. Endurance efforts became much harder. From March 2020 to February 2021, weight increased 45 pounds. I had to stop running completely last year due to the severe abdominal swelling and heaviness in the legs. As of today, have TMJ (what you said about having lockjaw really hit me), tinnitus, severe chronic fatigue, swelling in the feet and blurrier vision. Any exertion, even fast-walking across the street has me struggling because I can't breath well. I'm also suffocating as soon as I began to eat because I can't breath well just through my nose (since my mouth is closed). No matter how much I sleep, I awake unrefreshed and have a swollen abdomen, arms, legs and feet (feet sometimes turn purple). I appreciate you sharing because I'm checking with a physician about congestive heart failure as we speak because it does run in my family. I've had so many tests the last 10 years and all of them came back "normal." Yet, my health continues to worsen. Thank you again for sharing, Tim. So happy for you, Rinny and your family, and that your health has turned the corner. That is a miracle, friend. God blesses you all. :)
Unbelievable! I can’t imagine how hard it must be to share an experience so personal with the world. So thankful that you survived and can be there for Rinny and your children. I appreciate you opening up and letting us get a glimpse not only into this event but into your life. Prayers for a continued complete recovery. Life is a gift, thanks for reminded me of that!
Im a Paramedic. My good friend, an ER physician and I were on a ride. Got home and he started having chest pain. He took a shower and tried to just forget it, got to the point that he was concerned. Went to the local urgent care, STEMI. LAD MI, same as you. Happy to hear you are better!!!!
I salute Tim for posting this. LAD survivor here (MI 16 months ago) shocked three times before docs were able to get a stent in place. I’m only here today because I had the ridiculous good luck to be in the lobby of a world famous research hospital when it happened. While I’m no triathlete i had been running 3 -4 miles five times a week so in pretty good shape for my age (66 at the time). Long recovery time but I’m now able to walk/jog 3 miles every day. Due to quick medical intervention, my heart muscle was barely damaged. Ejection Fraction (EF) now 60% - well within normal range. Lucky, lucky man I am. Free advice: learn the symptoms and do not hesitate to get help!
Wow. Take good care of yourself TO. Being a dad myself I can relate. It is different if you fear not just for your own life but for what it would mean to the family you love. You seem to be one of the nicest guys in Ironman racing (which has a lot of nice characters). Thank you for sharing this difficult part of your story. All the best to you, Rinny and the kids so you will have many more years and decades together.
Tim - it’s a blessing that you pulled through. This was difficult to watch. You, Rinny, and the kids are in my prayers! You’re a motivation to many, Brother.
I'm a 49 year old Cat 4 cyclocross racer with a terrible family heart history. I had a stress echo done when I was 40 and I've been discussing with my wife about getting another one soon. I was going to wait til 50, but I probably shouldn't. This has cemented that I'll discuss it with my primary doc this Thursday at my annual physical. Glad you made it and that you're on the way back. It's terrifying to know that fitness doesn't prevent this.
Thanks for sharing. I just had one in June. I was 16.1 miles into a 20 mile ride when I called for the ambulance and locked up my bike. Keep sharing this info. My pain was slightly off to the left of center in my chest and radiating outward and down the back of my arms. Difficulty breathing and really thirsty. I just started cardio rehab and hope to be riding again as soon as I get the go ahead from my cardiologist. Good luck and keep spreading the word.
Oh boy... 😢 I follow you and Rinny for a while now Tim, and i really like your honest, happy, down to earth attitude. You are a real rolemodel. Such an event is lifechangeing, when you have responsability as a husband and dad, even more. I hope you can recover fully from this, physically and mentally and be assured - you have nothing to prove anymore. In case of the slightest doubt, please be careful. Life is more important than a few more races at that point of the career. I am glad you took this 12% chance and made it, champ! This was the most important victorty in your life. Stay strong, we are with you, whatever your plans are from here on... 👍
Tim Rinny and family thank heavens Tim survived. Thank you so much for opening your lives up to us you guys are my family goals. Every-time I watch a show i can tell there is so much love and positivity that emanate from your family! You guys are truly wonderful and have had huge positive impact on me and the world. Thank goodness Tim is still here!
Thank you for sharing your story. It highlights the importance of being in tune with our bodies (athletes shut out those red flags at times), having a health team and the fragility of life
Tim: so happy you are alive. I’m in my 40s with kids, and I totally know the 2 worst fears…them dying and us trying to live on, and the other is us dying and the kids navigating their childhood with no father. Awful thoughts, but you made it through and will be a better man because of it. So what’s next with Tri? Finishing a tri battling the widow maker is a heckuva story, but you know what’s better? A comeback story. Everyone loves a comeback story. Give us one!
I can totally relate Tim! I too had a LAD blockage this past January. While I am not a professional triathlete, I have done many tris from sprints to half-irons, I'm a SCUBA instructor and a vegetarian. Surprised this happened to me as well, as you would think the physical nature of my job and tris and the scope of my diet would've prevented it. I worked hard through exercise and medication for the past 7 months and last week did my first sprint tri since the heart attack, and I recently got clearance from my cardiologist to begin diving again! Thanks for your story and looking forward to hearing more about your recovery and your racing!
After experiencing 300+ bpm rates in 1991 I was diagnosed with Wolf Parkinson White Syndrome and got a RF ablation. First Ironman distance triathlon 3 months later. It happens to do many. Thank God you are ok!
Five years ago, I had emergency open-heart surgery to replace my aorta and aortic valve that had been destroyed by a bacterial infection (endocarditis). His reaction at 7:00 is EXACTLY how I feel every time I think about how close to death I was, and how extremely lucky I am to still be here in the world with my family, and how fortunate I am (after a hard road back) to still be able to pursue my life-long sports and activities. There aren’t many days that go by that I don’t think of the benefits of modern medicine and all its practitioners that got me back into life!
Everyone has already conveyed similar thoughts to mine. However, from one retired vet to another, I just want to say say I love you man and THANK YOU for being in all our lives as one of the best in our sport and more importantly one of the best role models as a father and person. 💪🏾
We stand with you Tim. Many people in the same boat. I fainted during exercise two years ago. Damaged heart valve and artery due to radiotherapy. Two stents and OHS later better now. It can happen to anyone, anytime. Best wishes and smooth recovery. Fergal .
I had my heart attack June 14 of this year. I can so relate to your story. Like you, I was in excellent shape. It came with zero warning while laying in bed at night surfing the web. Me, of all people, a heart attack?? Now two months post, I am making huge gains in my recovery. I’ll be back hiking the mountains very soon. Stay strong and give her hell!!! You’ll come back even stronger than before. And with the added benefit of having a new perspective on life. 🙏🏻
TOTAL SAVAGE!! Has a widow maker heart attack on the bike and still finished the race!! I did IM Boulder in 2016 and got to meet you and Mike Reilly the day before the race. I really appreciated the advice and conversation! Glad you're doing better my man!
That is really incredible that you were able to finish the race having a heart attack…. Your video educated me about symptoms of a heart attack, thank you, I hope I won’t need that information later. Good luck with your recovery. You are a true champion Tim.
Love you all. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I have been wondering where you were these last few months. My dad died at the age of 71 of a heart attack and he had ignored symptoms up to a week before it happened. It is so important for people to listen to their bodies and for athletes especially, we seem to be more in tune to how we are feeling so when something is not right, check it out. ❤️
WOW. For someone that is super fit and have a super healthy lifestyle, having a blockage blows my mind. So glad you are open about this so others can be aware a realize what the possibilities are. Glad you survived and recovered. God Bless you guys.
A friend of mine shared this with me yesterday and it has really touched my heart. I’m not a pro athlete but an age grouper. In September 2019 I completed my 3rd Ironman Wales. Exactly 2 weeks to the day later I suffered I heart attack. I thought I was suffering from severe heartburn because after all I am ‘really fit’. Exactly the same as yourself Tim, it was an LAD and I had 4 stents inserted. We are both very lucky to be alive Tim. Thanks for sharing this with us because I understand how tough it must have been. My advice to you would be is that it’s a long road to recovery and don’t expect too much of yourself. I’ve had so many times when I’ve thought that I’m back to normal and then I’ve had a setback, so don’t rush things. You will struggle both mentally and physically buddy and will need the full support of that wonderful young family of yours to get yourself through. I can honestly say that it’s taken nearly two years to get to a point where I feel that I am fully recovered. Take care love and best wishes. Ralph
So glad you got to the hospital in time TO! You’re right, life is a gift. We too often get caught up in the day to day and forget that. Wishing you well on your road to recovery. Thank you for sharing your story.
Wow Tim, Im aER physician in my early 40s. I have seen hundreds of Heart attacks, still your story give me goose bumps. I’m glad that you are doing good. You and your family are lucky. I wish you all the best.
Tim great for you and family that you got the help you needed. I had a triple bypass -(have a loverly zipper for tattoo!!!) 5 years ago including 95% LAD blockage. 12 IM races completed including Kona, Service with Marines and Airborne, but still it hit me. If anything, our message to all is to keep a close eye on our internal health and take advantage of any testing your PCP suggest. Cheers to your recovery and bounce back.
Tim and family thank you for sharing. It goes to show no matter how fit you are anyone can be susceptible to a heart attack. Us triathletes at times think we're invincible! Take care and God bless. 🙏
Hi Tim, I’m know I’m no athlete but I’ve went from 130kg gym freak to cyclist due to having a quintuplet heart bypass. Im now having a great time cycling. I have KOMS from my local 65 mile race. You will get through this. Keep moving forward.
Hi Tim, so happy you're doing okay. I know what you are going through. At 64, back in Nov 2020 I had total blockage of the LAD, and blockage in the RCA, and blockage in the Circumflex. Although my competitive running ended long ago I had continue to participate in fun runs and trials. I love being "out there". I will tell you, even at 65 now, this has made me look at life a bit different. 4 stents later, I am out there doing easy runs again and feel great. I even push it a bit here and there lol. It takes a while but I'm sure you will be out there again too. God Bless you and yours.
Whoa, that was unexpected to say the least. It brought back memories of the day a good friend died from a heart attack just 500m from the finish line of the Phili Marathon. He was a young, strong, and a father of two young children. I raise a glass to him every year and it is also why I really hate the meme folks share about "turn off my Garmin if I collapse at the finish line". So thankful that you are OK and I wish you all the very best. Thank you for sharing this with us- even the emotional tough parts. A great reminder that this can happen to anyone.
I have an amazing amount of respect for you. I took part in my first triathlon a little over 3 years ago and certainly caught the bug, with plans of moving my way through the disciplines up to Ironman, However in Oct 2020 I suffered a very similar heart attack; STEMI, and while my fitness levels are nowhere near your standards it is encouraging to know that there is a genuine pathway back to a sport that I enjoy.
Please take care of you and yours. You and your family are a staple in my home. I look up to the both of you always have. Take care of that ticker !!!!!!
Thank you for sharing this with us all. A dear friend and fellow IronMan also just had a heart scare that led to a double bypass. You think you’re active, you don’t sit around eating cheeseburgers all day, you’re fine. I’m so glad you paid attention to your body and got to a hospital when you did!! Sending you and the family our love
Truly an honor to have met Tim and Rinny, two of the nicer/kinder people you'll ever meet. So relieved this story has a happy ending, the love of our family is what pulls us all through in the end.
As a Dad, and a below average athlete and Man I couldn't contain myself to relate to this story. Doesn't matter how fit you are, it doesn't matter how strong you are...we are ALL human! Glad everything went ok! Take care Tim and take care all of you!
3 years ago I had an issue out on a ride, just wasn’t feeling it. Went home, got worst. Off to hospital and got a stent for same thing 90% blockage. The stent failed 6 months later and then triple bypass was needed. It’s a real eye opener and really puts things into perspective real quick. I feel that I wasn’t a cyclist and just a normal Joe, I would be dead. Glad to see you’re doing good.
I'm glad you're better. We are the lucky ones. I survived my heart attack. My LAD was 100% occluded. It really puts your life into perspective, what's really important.
Tim, Rinny and adorable kiddos: my mom went through a very similar heart attack (although she isn't an Ironman champion like you, she too is very fit and young and a heart attack was seemingly unthinkable). I can't express how much this video resonated with me. Thank you for sharing your story, as you say it's more common than we think it is, and advocating for awareness is critical so that more people are able to get medical attention before it's too late. Wishing you and your lovely family the best, hoping you are able to take care of yourself and enjoy a long, long time with those you love. I know I'm forever grateful my mom is still with me, I'm sure that is exactly how your family feels for you.
Tim you are not only a role model and an incredible athlete but you are brave....thank you for sharing your storey. This reminds us all....athlete or not that we are human and anything can happen. Heal up for you and the family...we are rooting for you!
Hello Tim, sorry to hear about your cardiac event. I’m glad you’re still with us! Please know that you are not alone and that this problem has been happening to other seemingly ultra/healthy endurance athletes. In researching this subject for several years, it appears that cardiac blockages and arterial plaque rupture in healthy endurance athletes is very likely due to inflammation/damage to endothelial lining, brought on by ingestion of food products that are high in inorganic arsenic. Many of the popular energy bars and gels eaten by triathletes use brown rice syrup as their primary ingredient. Whether the brown rice syrup is organic or not makes no difference, it still contains high levels of inorganic arsenic. Dartmouth University performed a study several years ago and concluded that arsenic, particularly the inorganic variant, causes endocrine disruption and greatly hastens inflammation/damage to endothelial lining of blood vessels, including highly vulnerable cardiac arteries like the left anterior descending artery (LAD). The US FDA knows of this and other studies showing this danger yet still has not issued warning statement(s) to the public. What’s it going to take?!
Not just inorganic arsenic, but more importantly - high doses of sugar and processed carbs which in turn cause high levels of insulin to flow through a person's blood stream. See Ivor Cummin's video at th-cam.com/video/alZ47dgu3LU/w-d-xo.html
I cannot fathom HOW you completed the run with a near total occlusion of you LAD. Just incredible. Good luck with the recovery. Lesson for everyone though, listen to your body!
Thank you very much for sharing, in the interest of preventing this for others athletes out there, I was curious if you had any cardiac screening (stress test, coronary calcium scan, etc.) or high-risk markers (high cholesterol, c reactive protein score) prior to the heart attack? If your Dr had any feedback that these tests would have helped warn of the plaque build-up maybe it would encourage others, middle-aged male athletes, to get screened.
As a triathlete, about 10 days older than Tim who has had a heart attack scare complete with ER visit (it wasn't... but scared me enough to start thinking!!!), I am really curious here also. I would like to know of cholesterol levels were high to begin with?
Tim and Rinny - I'm so glad that the worst didn't happen. This is such an awful experience. Likely it's because of your physical conditioning that didn't make Rinny a widow. You are lucky and it sounds like you understand this. Live each moment fully. Good luck on your recovery! 💛
Tim - I'm 43, and had a heart attack right before Christmas last year. 90+ % blockage of my widow maker artery. Had to get two stints put in. Only knew something was wrong when I had chest tightness on 4 Zwift rides and had trouble keeping power up. Spending all year now struggling to ride with limited HR. Cardiologist banned me from any racing this year. Will see in December if I am released for 2022 racing at all. You are definitely not alone in this. Stay strong.
Thank you for sharing. I can relate from both sides of the incident and shed a few tears. My Dad had a heart attack as well - in front of me too - when I was a kid. I was training so that I don’t make my kids orphans. Great shape and I had a similar incident to yours.
This is super scary and I'm glad you're alright! To think that your diet and fitness is presumably in top form and this can still happen to someone like you. So crazy!
Thank You for sharing Tim and Rinny! Great Courage! I´m sure you´re going to be well soon and give your family all the love that they deserve and us fans some hell of great races to watch. Stay strong!
Thank you for sharing. I had mine on Christmas Day 2016. Every day of life since then has been a gift. I completed my first Post heart attack Sprint distance triathlon last weekend after rehabbing my body for a year. I’m planning on doing a few more and then up to Olympic level next year. Did I mention I’m in my 60s? When you come back, just take it slowly. Nice and easy. If your cardiologist tells you it’s ok then go for it but ease yourself back into your comfort zone. Did I mention I’m also a physician? I’ve already told my family that if you find me dead on some Sprint course or open water swim I want you to know I’d rather die like that than to be discovered in a bed covered with flies and maggots a week later. Take me out on my shield. Good luck brother!
I hope you make a serious consideration about retiring from competition. There is so much more in life beside triathlon. Wish you all the best in your recovery.
Thank you for sharing this Tim! really happy you're doing alright and nothing more happened to you. This type of transparency and honest video are very valuable!
Isn't it interesting how we smile and laugh through the retelling of the hardest moments of our lives? Maybe it is just an example of the joy to have survived to tell the tale. Love and prayers to you all. #besttrifamever
I had a blockage in my LAD leading to a heart attack in June last year while riding my bike. I was 43 at the time. The hardest part of recovery is getting your mental right. The physical is easy, but the toll it takes on you, and your family, mentally is the real challenge. Be well and share your story. If it leads to even one person getting a check up and avoiding the same experience by getting treatment before a heart attack, then it is a story worth so much.
@@TOinTRI I’m sure you’ve helped a lot more than one. Please look into what they feel caused the blockage so we can all look at preventing the same. Obviously it’s not smoking or exercise in your case, so is it diet? Could it be the high concentrations of sugars in nutritional gels? Is it more meat or fat related? Knowing what caused the plague build up is going to help thousands of people. Cheers and thanks so much for the video, all the best to you and your family.
Similar to both Tim and yourself Rocco an LAD heart attack. Completely agree, the psychological aspect has been by far the hardest thing to cope with. I was 56 at the time of my heart attack and it did take me quite some time to recover physically but the mental side has been really tough.
I had 4 blockages. The mental game is real but there is definitely a physical aspect too. You have to really really pay attention to everything in your life as you are on a new set of medications and are in a place you've never been before. Lifestyle is key moving forward. This means diet, stress, exercise, etc. Be well guys. From a fellow who's in the same club as you!
Tim, as others have said, thanks for sharing. This is an important message. I have had serious injuries that have taken me from 100 miles an hour to 0 in an instant, and it’s not easy, but focus on your health. You have the most amazing family…cherish it.
Tom, my best wishes for you and your family, this video is a gift for all of us amateur Triathletes, looking after to improve our health. Thanks God your family have you back.❤️
OMG! Tim and family - wishing you all the best. What you told me after my ACL replacement was, "See you back on the course soon! ". So right back at ya brother with that same message. Take care. We're thinking of you.
Thanks for sharing. I’m a 60 year old 7 X IM Finisher. I’m getting ready to check out of the hospital now after finding out I had 95% blockage in my LAD artery and getting a stent during a heart cath yesterday. I ignored some signs at St George then Chatt 70.3 earlier this year. Started having all the symptoms a couple weeks ago during my workouts and took the necessary steps to find out what was going on including stopping my training. Thankfully my primary care physician caught the abnormal readings on my ECG and immediately referred me to a cardiologist. I’m looking forward to racing again next year. Good luck!
Tim, Rinny, Izzy & Finn...Gosh, just saw your Video and am so glad to hear that you are doing well. Much white healing light and good vibes heading to you and your wonderful family from us in 🇨🇦. Thanks for sharing your experience, you were very lucky. Onward, from a 70-74 age-grouper who has ‘raced’ with you several times. You are an inspiration.
TO: Thanks for sharing your experience and don't apologize for getting emotional. You are the best! I do believe you will save someones life by sharing your experience. I am so happy you made it! You are inspiring as a triathlete, but more inspiring as a good person.... Best of luck going forward.
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So glad you pulled through Tim! Seeing those ER scenes made me have flash backs to when I was also on the ER bed with my HOKAs still on (I had a PE this summer). Stay strong with the recovery and I wish you and your family all the best!
Thank you so much for sharing and being so vulnerable with us, Tim. I can’t imagine how hard this experience has been for you and your entire family. You’re an inspiration to all of us who follow your + Rinny’s journeys, and we’re so grateful that you’re doing alright.
Hey Tim, I was on the other side of this. My dad passed away from a Heart Attack at the age of 46. From no symptoms, strong person, never complained about aches or pains. One day he woke up in the middle of the night, told my mom to take him to the hospital, he walked towards the closet in his room to get his clothes, and didn’t make it. I gave him CPR for a long time before the ambulance got to our house. He was gone before he made it to the hospital. It’s tough to have to go through. Thank you for sharing and I’m glad you were given a second chance at life. Sending prayers to you to keep recovering and getting healthier and to your family. God bless.
In our sport, we are continually told winners “ignore the pain” because “the brain is weak”. Your story highlights that it’s not always best to ignore the signs that something is wrong and if it kickstarts a wider discussion you’ll have done a lot of good by sharing it. Thanks - and all the best to you and the family, Tim.
Guess there is always a line in the sand to what a heart can survive ,
In 2014, at the age of 54, 65 miles into an 80 mile routine bike ride, had a heart attack at the Seal Beach Pier in southern California. 90% blockage of the LAD. In to health center on a Saturday, stent put in on sunday morning, and released Monday afternoon. Advised NO hard activity for a month, then start easy, and listen to your body. 3 months later I was back to where I was before the attack, and 6 months later, better than EVER! Had ridden the San Diego Century in May of 2014, Heart Attack in August of 2014, and back to do the San Diego Century in June of 2015, beating my previous time by 20 minutes. Am now celebrating 7 years since the attack on the 23rd of August, 2021. Am cycling longer and stronger than ever, off ALL meds except baby asperin every morning. Wish you the best. Thanks for sharing.
I actually had wondered where you’d been. Now I and we all know. Praise God you’re still with Rinny and the kids, and all of us!
Tim, I had the exact same thing happen to me 2 1/2 years ago. 80% blockage in my LAD (widow maker) that landed me in the hospital with a heart attack. The last thing I ever imagined I'd face at 47 years old. So thankful I'm also one of the ones who beat the odds. I'm now at the point I will carefully ramp my training back up and compete in a 70.3 race next year. You obviously don't know me, but you and your family are well loved and respected and I'm so thankful you are still with us. Lots of good thoughts sent your way.
Tim and Rinny (and kids) - it takes courage to share a vulnerable part of yourself, especially to the entire world. Good on you for having the stones to share this! In March of 2020, one year exactly before your event, I went for my first training run (for a 70.3 that was later cancelled) after having been ill for a couple of weeks. Turns out it was COVID, and turns out I suffered a severe pulmonary embolism. While I can't say I've been exactly where you've been, I absolutely know the feeling of being stuck in an ER, suddenly weak and mortal when just yesterday you were the most fit in the room. The look on your face and the quiver in your voice hit me like a dump truck, because I know the worry and shock you felt as a dad and as a husband. Despite the shock of it, I'm very happy to see someone with a global platform share this story. It can only help others, including myself, to have that new perspective on life you speak about. My story is over a year old now and I'm back, in better shape than ever and ready for that deferred 70.3 to happen next month in Washington. You'll be back, and I can't wait to hear about your journey. Best of luck to you and your family!
Thanks for sharing Colin and great to hear you are better then ever now! I'll absolutely share my journey back with everyone too!
@@TOinTRI Thank you Tim and Colin for sharing your stories. Isn't it crazy how quickly our lives can suddenly change. It's a sobering wake up call for all of us that our health can never be taken for granted, no matter how seemingly fit we are. Life _is_ a gift indeed! Tim I look forward more than ever to hearing updates from you and your lovely family, especially your new perspective on life and how that possibly changes/shapes things for you going forward. Also would value and appreciate any insights you may wish to share in the future with regard to heart health (that you've learned). We celebrate you and thankful you came through this strong and healthy. You clearly have a greater purpose and much more to do! (edit: none more important of course than being a husband and father to your precious family). Take care 💗 🙏
Thank you for sharing your story. I had a similar experience while competing in triathlons. I was diagnosed with Atrial Fribilation. I had 3 cardio ablations procedures done in the last 7 years and finally thank God my heart is in stable condition now and without the need of taking any medications. My Electrophysiologist and cardiologist had advised me to stop pushing myself and do everything in moderation. I'm 58 and just started learning how to longboard surfing. I still miss racing the local races here in Socal. The hard part is not being able to push me because of my competitive personality. but I'm just totally grateful that I can still enjoy exercising but everything in moderation. I'm still here with my lovely family and very blessed. Life is good! take care of yourself and your beautiful Family. \m/
Take care Tim, You guys are legends of our sport and wonderful people, with the most awesome little ones. Health is the most important thing we have this was a hard watch and love how positive you both are, hope the recovery goes well and just take care man. Thoughts with you all. God bless
Glad to hear you survived. I had exactly the same episode on the 31 January 2021 in a sprint triathlon finishing with a big PB but had weird fluttering in my heart while on the bike. My friend and training partner took me to the ER where they diagnosed the blockage and a stent was put in. Unfortunately my mate who saved me, suffered the same episode on the 6th March 2021 at a half distance race 13km into the run collapsed and died. All the best with your recovery, your perspective on life certainly changes and I also have been pushing Heart Health Checks to anyone who will listen.
Hi Tim, I was a very modest triathlete in the 80s, avid biker, and I suffered a severe heart attack at the age of 36 year old, in France. I remember me literally smiling at the ER doctor when he told me I just had a heart attack. I really thought he was kidding. It was the last thing I could expect considering the physical condition I was in at the time. I also remember a little bit later asking another doctor what would be my life expectancy. Of course, he wouldn't give me an answer. Well, I turned 60 4 days ago, and I'm doing very good. The myocardial necrosis left me with a good portion of my heart ineffective, but I still can run, bike, and swim faster than the majority of guys my age. Don't worry, we can still do surprising things with half a heart! 🤣 I wish you a speedy recovery!
A friend of mine lost his dad due to a heart attack while the dad was cycling alone.
He was also your age and loved cycling.
Thank you for sharing your story.
Tim (and Rinny & fam), I wish I could give more than a "thumbs up" to your story and message. You are two pros who have been so gracious and welcoming when I have seen you at races, that if something had had happened...I can't begin to explain how devastating that would be to this and many of your other fans. Please take care of yourself and know that your fans are in your corner all the way. #blessed.
This hit me. Damn Tim. You just won the lottery and won a second chance at life
Unbelievable. My stomach was just churning the whole time, choking up watching this, hearing how close a call that was for you. So thankful for you and your amazing family that you dodged this one. Dude powers through to finish the race (whether that was smart or not is up to debate, lol). But eventually you listened to your body. ;)
Hug those kids and that partner every chance you get, because you never know.
Nothing but love and support for you all!
Yah probably not smart on my part Ryan, haha! Hopefully there isn't a next time, but if there is I promise I'll stop!
Tim,
I know exactly what you went through. I had My LAD blown out on the operating table and was put on the heart machine for 3 days in an induced coma.
August 25, 2011 i was 49 . I went in for a minor stent and ended up with the LAD blowout on the table. Glad you and I can see our families.
Enjoy you blessed days ahead. PS 5 years later i did a 70.3 with my Cardiologists blessing.
wow Scott, glad you came out the other end ok too! Thanks for sharing and thanks for your support!
Tim, always enjoyed your videos, thanks so much for sharing. Your video could not have been posted at a better time. I was just diagnosed with blockage in my LAD and I'm going in to have a stent installed at the end of the month. I was in a bit of denial of my condition. Cardiologist said because I'm in shape, the blockage was difficult to detect since I don't have any of the symptoms such as shortness of breath and tiredness. Said "you're in the best shape but, you can't escape genetics." I thank you for this video because it really hit home the seriousness of my condition.
I look forward to seeing your journey to recovery and if you desire, your return to racing again. It'll be my inspiration since I really enjoy training and racing. Best wishes...
I was just at Boulder 70.3 and was hoping to see you on the course. Now I understand why I did not. I’m sure it was difficult for you and Rinny to open your home to the world, thank you for doing so. You’re a very lucky man!! Wishing you a speedy, and full recovery!!!
Thank you for sharing your experiencing, Tim. You're very courageous, friend. You said it well - life is a gift.
Your experience has caused me explore with yet another physician heart issues of my own. Congestive heart failure runs in my family. My Dad's dad died from it at 53. I've been having a multitude of symptoms since March 2011 that I initially thought was an intestinal disorder. But, after seeing nothing amiss, the GI doctors just said it's IBS (because they really didn't know what was going on).
Have been active my whole life. Experienced an uptick in health went going vegetarian over 10 years ago. Health was at its peak at the end of September 2010 after finishing Branson 70.3. Went to the medical tent after the race because I did not feel well. The EMT gave me two IV bags of sodium chloride because I had hyponatremia (diluted sodium levels) and blood pressure was like 60 over 40. I was also nauseous, had a swollen abdomen and lost my appetite. After the IV, I felt amazing. All the symptoms dissipated. Six months later while out for a bike ride, something felt heavy in the area between my sternum and navel. Weight increased 15 pounds in a month. Over the years, some doctors thought it was IBS, but no amount of various diets, supplements, mental therapy, etc. gave relief or resolved it completely. Weight gradually increased and body got thicker overall. Endurance efforts became much harder. From March 2020 to February 2021, weight increased 45 pounds. I had to stop running completely last year due to the severe abdominal swelling and heaviness in the legs. As of today, have TMJ (what you said about having lockjaw really hit me), tinnitus, severe chronic fatigue, swelling in the feet and blurrier vision. Any exertion, even fast-walking across the street has me struggling because I can't breath well. I'm also suffocating as soon as I began to eat because I can't breath well just through my nose (since my mouth is closed). No matter how much I sleep, I awake unrefreshed and have a swollen abdomen, arms, legs and feet (feet sometimes turn purple).
I appreciate you sharing because I'm checking with a physician about congestive heart failure as we speak because it does run in my family. I've had so many tests the last 10 years and all of them came back "normal." Yet, my health continues to worsen. Thank you again for sharing, Tim. So happy for you, Rinny and your family, and that your health has turned the corner. That is a miracle, friend. God blesses you all. :)
Unbelievable! I can’t imagine how hard it must be to share an experience so personal with the world. So thankful that you survived and can be there for Rinny and your children. I appreciate you opening up and letting us get a glimpse not only into this event but into your life. Prayers for a continued complete recovery. Life is a gift, thanks for reminded me of that!
Im a Paramedic. My good friend, an ER physician and I were on a ride. Got home and he started having chest pain. He took a shower and tried to just forget it, got to the point that he was concerned. Went to the local urgent care, STEMI. LAD MI, same as you. Happy to hear you are better!!!!
I salute Tim for posting this.
LAD survivor here (MI 16 months ago) shocked three times before docs were able to get a stent in place. I’m only here today because I had the ridiculous good luck to be in the lobby of a world famous research hospital when it happened. While I’m no triathlete i had been running 3 -4 miles five times a week so in pretty good shape for my age (66 at the time). Long recovery time but I’m now able to walk/jog 3 miles every day. Due to quick medical intervention, my heart muscle was barely damaged. Ejection Fraction (EF) now 60% - well within normal range. Lucky, lucky man I am.
Free advice: learn the symptoms and do not hesitate to get help!
Wow. Take good care of yourself TO. Being a dad myself I can relate. It is different if you fear not just for your own life but for what it would mean to the family you love. You seem to be one of the nicest guys in Ironman racing (which has a lot of nice characters). Thank you for sharing this difficult part of your story. All the best to you, Rinny and the kids so you will have many more years and decades together.
Tim - it’s a blessing that you pulled through. This was difficult to watch. You, Rinny, and the kids are in my prayers! You’re a motivation to many, Brother.
I'm a 49 year old Cat 4 cyclocross racer with a terrible family heart history. I had a stress echo done when I was 40 and I've been discussing with my wife about getting another one soon. I was going to wait til 50, but I probably shouldn't.
This has cemented that I'll discuss it with my primary doc this Thursday at my annual physical.
Glad you made it and that you're on the way back. It's terrifying to know that fitness doesn't prevent this.
Thanks for sharing. I just had one in June. I was 16.1 miles into a 20 mile ride when I called for the ambulance and locked up my bike. Keep sharing this info. My pain was slightly off to the left of center in my chest and radiating outward and down the back of my arms. Difficulty breathing and really thirsty. I just started cardio rehab and hope to be riding again as soon as I get the go ahead from my cardiologist. Good luck and keep spreading the word.
One of the most human, real dudes out there! Thank you T.O. for your vulnerability!
Oh boy... 😢
I follow you and Rinny for a while now Tim, and i really like your honest, happy, down to earth attitude. You are a real rolemodel.
Such an event is lifechangeing, when you have responsability as a husband and dad, even more.
I hope you can recover fully from this, physically and mentally and be assured - you have nothing to prove anymore. In case of the slightest doubt, please be careful. Life is more important than a few more races at that point of the career.
I am glad you took this 12% chance and made it, champ! This was the most important victorty in your life.
Stay strong, we are with you, whatever your plans are from here on... 👍
Has a heart attack, finishes the competition, lives to tell about it.. what a story! Thanks for sharing!!!
Tim Rinny and family thank heavens Tim survived. Thank you so much for opening your lives up to us you guys are my family goals. Every-time I watch a show i can tell there is so much love and positivity that emanate from your family! You guys are truly wonderful and have had huge positive impact on me and the world. Thank goodness Tim is still here!
Wish for a speedy recovery. As a rehab doctor I am looking forward to following your cardiac rehabilitation process and getting back to your best 🙏👍
Thank you for sharing your story. It highlights the importance of being in tune with our bodies (athletes shut out those red flags at times), having a health team and the fragility of life
If I can help one person pick up on an early warning sign, it would be worth it!
Tim: so happy you are alive.
I’m in my 40s with kids, and I totally know the 2 worst fears…them dying and us trying to live on, and the other is us dying and the kids navigating their childhood with no father. Awful thoughts, but you made it through and will be a better man because of it.
So what’s next with Tri? Finishing a tri battling the widow maker is a heckuva story, but you know what’s better? A comeback story. Everyone loves a comeback story. Give us one!
Holy shit! Crazy stuff. I wish all the best to you and the family! Take care
I can totally relate Tim! I too had a LAD blockage this past January. While I am not a professional triathlete, I have done many tris from sprints to half-irons, I'm a SCUBA instructor and a vegetarian. Surprised this happened to me as well, as you would think the physical nature of my job and tris and the scope of my diet would've prevented it. I worked hard through exercise and medication for the past 7 months and last week did my first sprint tri since the heart attack, and I recently got clearance from my cardiologist to begin diving again! Thanks for your story and looking forward to hearing more about your recovery and your racing!
After experiencing 300+ bpm rates in 1991 I was diagnosed with Wolf Parkinson White Syndrome and got a RF ablation. First Ironman distance triathlon 3 months later. It happens to do many. Thank God you are ok!
Get well! I hope you can get back out there. That's what guys like us live for. You're tough, you got this.
Take care. You will likely end up saving a number of lives by spreading the word. Hard to be a cautionary tale. You’re a legend.
Five years ago, I had emergency open-heart surgery to replace my aorta and aortic valve that had been destroyed by a bacterial infection (endocarditis). His reaction at 7:00 is EXACTLY how I feel every time I think about how close to death I was, and how extremely lucky I am to still be here in the world with my family, and how fortunate I am (after a hard road back) to still be able to pursue my life-long sports and activities. There aren’t many days that go by that I don’t think of the benefits of modern medicine and all its practitioners that got me back into life!
As a dad of 2 i can (perhaps) imagine how hard it would be. Really hope you are well and send you all the strengh and the best wishes from France
Best wishes from your home area. I just started triathlons this summer, Feb 2020 I weighed 375 pounds and find you to be an inspiration.
Be well.
Joe
Everyone has already conveyed similar thoughts to mine. However, from one retired vet to another, I just want to say say I love you man and THANK YOU for being in all our lives as one of the best in our sport and more importantly one of the best role models as a father and person. 💪🏾
We stand with you Tim. Many people in the same boat. I fainted during exercise two years ago. Damaged heart valve and artery due to radiotherapy. Two stents and OHS later better now. It can happen to anyone, anytime. Best wishes and smooth recovery. Fergal .
I had my heart attack June 14 of this year. I can so relate to your story. Like you, I was in excellent shape. It came with zero warning while laying in bed at night surfing the web. Me, of all people, a heart attack?? Now two months post, I am making huge gains in my recovery. I’ll be back hiking the mountains very soon. Stay strong and give her hell!!! You’ll come back even stronger than before. And with the added benefit of having a new perspective on life. 🙏🏻
TOTAL SAVAGE!! Has a widow maker heart attack on the bike and still finished the race!! I did IM Boulder in 2016 and got to meet you and Mike Reilly the day before the race. I really appreciated the advice and conversation! Glad you're doing better my man!
Tim, absolutely floored when I heard this news. Hope you are doing well. Prayers Mate!
That is really incredible that you were able to finish the race having a heart attack…. Your video educated me about symptoms of a heart attack, thank you, I hope I won’t need that information later. Good luck with your recovery. You are a true champion Tim.
Love you all. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I have been wondering where you were these last few months. My dad died at the age of 71 of a heart attack and he had ignored symptoms up to a week before it happened. It is so important for people to listen to their bodies and for athletes especially, we seem to be more in tune to how we are feeling so when something is not right, check it out. ❤️
WOW. For someone that is super fit and have a super healthy lifestyle, having a blockage blows my mind. So glad you are open about this so others can be aware a realize what the possibilities are. Glad you survived and recovered. God Bless you guys.
A friend of mine shared this with me yesterday and it has really touched my heart. I’m not a pro athlete but an age grouper. In September 2019 I completed my 3rd Ironman Wales. Exactly 2 weeks to the day later I suffered I heart attack. I thought I was suffering from severe heartburn because after all I am ‘really fit’.
Exactly the same as yourself Tim, it was an LAD and I had 4 stents inserted. We are both very lucky to be alive Tim. Thanks for sharing this with us because I understand how tough it must have been. My advice to you would be is that it’s a long road to recovery and don’t expect too much of yourself. I’ve had so many times when I’ve thought that I’m back to normal and then I’ve had a setback, so don’t rush things. You will struggle both mentally and physically buddy and will need the full support of that wonderful young family of yours to get yourself through. I can honestly say that it’s taken nearly two years to get to a point where I feel that I am fully recovered.
Take care love and best wishes. Ralph
So glad you got to the hospital in time TO! You’re right, life is a gift. We too often get caught up in the day to day and forget that. Wishing you well on your road to recovery. Thank you for sharing your story.
Wow Tim, Im aER physician in my early 40s. I have seen hundreds of Heart attacks, still your story give me goose bumps. I’m glad that you are doing good. You and your family are lucky. I wish you all the best.
Tim great for you and family that you got the help you needed. I had a triple bypass -(have a loverly zipper for tattoo!!!) 5 years ago including 95% LAD blockage. 12 IM races completed including Kona, Service with Marines and Airborne, but still it hit me. If anything, our message to all is to keep a close eye on our internal health and take advantage of any testing your PCP suggest. Cheers to your recovery and bounce back.
For people we only know from afar, we love you guys. So very glad this worked out and wish you all the best. Sending prayers 🙏
Tim and family thank you for sharing. It goes to show no matter how fit you are anyone can be susceptible to a heart attack. Us triathletes at times think we're invincible!
Take care and God bless. 🙏
Hi Tim, I’m know I’m no athlete but I’ve went from 130kg gym freak to cyclist due to having a quintuplet heart bypass. Im now having a great time cycling. I have KOMS from my local 65 mile race. You will get through this. Keep moving forward.
You finished a 70.3 while having a heart attack... What a f***ing beast!! 😯 All the best with the recovery - thoughts and prayers with your family. 🙏
So sorry to hear this Tim, I had a heart issue only a few weeks after yours so have felt some of your fears etc. Stay strong and positive.
Hi Tim, so happy you're doing okay. I know what you are going through. At 64, back in Nov 2020 I had total blockage of the LAD, and blockage in the RCA, and blockage in the Circumflex. Although my competitive running ended long ago I had continue to participate in fun runs and trials. I love being "out there". I will tell you, even at 65 now, this has made me look at life a bit different. 4 stents later, I am out there doing easy runs again and feel great. I even push it a bit here and there lol. It takes a while but I'm sure you will be out there again too. God Bless you and yours.
Whoa, that was unexpected to say the least. It brought back memories of the day a good friend died from a heart attack just 500m from the finish line of the Phili Marathon. He was a young, strong, and a father of two young children. I raise a glass to him every year and it is also why I really hate the meme folks share about "turn off my Garmin if I collapse at the finish line". So thankful that you are OK and I wish you all the very best. Thank you for sharing this with us- even the emotional tough parts. A great reminder that this can happen to anyone.
I have an amazing amount of respect for you. I took part in my first triathlon a little over 3 years ago and certainly caught the bug, with plans of moving my way through the disciplines up to Ironman, However in Oct 2020 I suffered a very similar heart attack; STEMI, and while my fitness levels are nowhere near your standards it is encouraging to know that there is a genuine pathway back to a sport that I enjoy.
Please take care of you and yours. You and your family are a staple in my home. I look up to the both of you always have. Take care of that ticker !!!!!!
Tim and Rinny - THANK YOU .... for sharing. Gosh what a scary thing. Ugh .... really hits home. Hang in there Tim, Rinny, hugs to the family.
Thank you for sharing this with us all. A dear friend and fellow IronMan also just had a heart scare that led to a double bypass. You think you’re active, you don’t sit around eating cheeseburgers all day, you’re fine. I’m so glad you paid attention to your body and got to a hospital when you did!! Sending you and the family our love
I am speechless and crying with you over this 😢 I am so glad you are okay and wish you much health and happiness!
Truly an honor to have met Tim and Rinny, two of the nicer/kinder people you'll ever meet. So relieved this story has a happy ending, the love of our family is what pulls us all through in the end.
As a Dad, and a below average athlete and Man I couldn't contain myself to relate to this story. Doesn't matter how fit you are, it doesn't matter how strong you are...we are ALL human! Glad everything went ok! Take care Tim and take care all of you!
Rinny says: "Tim's not one to complain." Understatement of the century. I cannot believe he completed the race. God bless you and your family.
Tough as nails unless I have a cold...then the sky is falling, haha!
3 years ago I had an issue out on a ride, just wasn’t feeling it. Went home, got worst. Off to hospital and got a stent for same thing 90% blockage. The stent failed 6 months later and then triple bypass was needed. It’s a real eye opener and really puts things into perspective real quick. I feel that I wasn’t a cyclist and just a normal Joe, I would be dead. Glad to see you’re doing good.
Hi Tim! This is scary and am glad it has worked out well for you and the family! Please take care and keep us posted, stay safe and healthy 🙏
I'm glad you're better. We are the lucky ones. I survived my heart attack. My LAD was 100% occluded. It really puts your life into perspective, what's really important.
Tim, Rinny and adorable kiddos: my mom went through a very similar heart attack (although she isn't an Ironman champion like you, she too is very fit and young and a heart attack was seemingly unthinkable). I can't express how much this video resonated with me. Thank you for sharing your story, as you say it's more common than we think it is, and advocating for awareness is critical so that more people are able to get medical attention before it's too late. Wishing you and your lovely family the best, hoping you are able to take care of yourself and enjoy a long, long time with those you love. I know I'm forever grateful my mom is still with me, I'm sure that is exactly how your family feels for you.
Tim you are not only a role model and an incredible athlete but you are brave....thank you for sharing your storey. This reminds us all....athlete or not that we are human and anything can happen. Heal up for you and the family...we are rooting for you!
One of the true gentlemen of the sport and a humble man. So glad you are still with us and with your family. Take care TO
Hello Tim, sorry to hear about your cardiac event. I’m glad you’re still with us! Please know that you are not alone and that this problem has been happening to other seemingly ultra/healthy endurance athletes. In researching this subject for several years, it appears that cardiac blockages and arterial plaque rupture in healthy endurance athletes is very likely due to inflammation/damage to endothelial lining, brought on by ingestion of food products that are high in inorganic arsenic. Many of the popular energy bars and gels eaten by triathletes use brown rice syrup as their primary ingredient. Whether the brown rice syrup is organic or not makes no difference, it still contains high levels of inorganic arsenic. Dartmouth University performed a study several years ago and concluded that arsenic, particularly the inorganic variant, causes endocrine disruption and greatly hastens inflammation/damage to endothelial lining of blood vessels, including highly vulnerable cardiac arteries like the left anterior descending artery (LAD). The US FDA knows of this and other studies showing this danger yet still has not issued warning statement(s) to the public. What’s it going to take?!
Not just inorganic arsenic, but more importantly - high doses of sugar and processed carbs which in turn cause high levels of insulin to flow through a person's blood stream. See Ivor Cummin's video at th-cam.com/video/alZ47dgu3LU/w-d-xo.html
I cannot fathom HOW you completed the run with a near total occlusion of you LAD. Just incredible. Good luck with the recovery. Lesson for everyone though, listen to your body!
Thank you very much for sharing, in the interest of preventing this for others athletes out there, I was curious if you had any cardiac screening (stress test, coronary calcium scan, etc.) or high-risk markers (high cholesterol, c reactive protein score) prior to the heart attack? If your Dr had any feedback that these tests would have helped warn of the plaque build-up maybe it would encourage others, middle-aged male athletes, to get screened.
As a triathlete, about 10 days older than Tim who has had a heart attack scare complete with ER visit (it wasn't... but scared me enough to start thinking!!!), I am really curious here also. I would like to know of cholesterol levels were high to begin with?
Tim and Rinny - I'm so glad that the worst didn't happen. This is such an awful experience. Likely it's because of your physical conditioning that didn't make Rinny a widow. You are lucky and it sounds like you understand this. Live each moment fully. Good luck on your recovery! 💛
Tim - I'm 43, and had a heart attack right before Christmas last year. 90+ % blockage of my widow maker artery. Had to get two stints put in. Only knew something was wrong when I had chest tightness on 4 Zwift rides and had trouble keeping power up. Spending all year now struggling to ride with limited HR. Cardiologist banned me from any racing this year. Will see in December if I am released for 2022 racing at all. You are definitely not alone in this. Stay strong.
Finishing a race while having a massive heart attack!! You are a warrior!!! I’m a huge fan so thankful you are doing well!
Thank you for sharing. I can relate from both sides of the incident and shed a few tears.
My Dad had a heart attack as well - in front of me too - when I was a kid.
I was training so that I don’t make my kids orphans. Great shape and I had a similar incident to yours.
This is super scary and I'm glad you're alright! To think that your diet and fitness is presumably in top form and this can still happen to someone like you. So crazy!
Thank You for sharing Tim and Rinny! Great Courage! I´m sure you´re going to be well soon and give your family all the love that they deserve and us fans some hell of great races to watch. Stay strong!
Thank you for sharing. I had mine on Christmas Day 2016. Every day of life since then has been a gift. I completed my first Post heart attack Sprint distance triathlon last weekend after rehabbing my body for a year. I’m planning on doing a few more and then up to Olympic level next year. Did I mention I’m in my 60s? When you come back, just take it slowly. Nice and easy. If your cardiologist tells you it’s ok then go for it but ease yourself back into your comfort zone. Did I mention I’m also a physician?
I’ve already told my family that if you find me dead on some Sprint course or open water swim I want you to know I’d rather die like that than to be discovered in a bed covered with flies and maggots a week later. Take me out on my shield. Good luck brother!
I hope you make a serious consideration about retiring from competition. There is so much more in life beside triathlon. Wish you all the best in your recovery.
Man after performing at that high of a level this must be mind blowing for him. Someone was watching over you man. ☘️
Thank you for sharing this Tim! really happy you're doing alright and nothing more happened to you. This type of transparency and honest video are very valuable!
Wow can’t believe you summoned the courage to share this. Glad you’re still here
Isn't it interesting how we smile and laugh through the retelling of the hardest moments of our lives? Maybe it is just an example of the joy to have survived to tell the tale. Love and prayers to you all. #besttrifamever
Glad you are still with us. Take care Tim.
I had a blockage in my LAD leading to a heart attack in June last year while riding my bike. I was 43 at the time. The hardest part of recovery is getting your mental right. The physical is easy, but the toll it takes on you, and your family, mentally is the real challenge. Be well and share your story. If it leads to even one person getting a check up and avoiding the same experience by getting treatment before a heart attack, then it is a story worth so much.
Amen Rocco, if we help just one person, it is a huge win. Agreed on the mental piece too, I think it is the hardest part of the return
@@TOinTRI I’m sure you’ve helped a lot more than one. Please look into what they feel caused the blockage so we can all look at preventing the same. Obviously it’s not smoking or exercise in your case, so is it diet? Could it be the high concentrations of sugars in nutritional gels? Is it more meat or fat related? Knowing what caused the plague build up is going to help thousands of people. Cheers and thanks so much for the video, all the best to you and your family.
Similar to both Tim and yourself Rocco an LAD heart attack. Completely agree, the psychological aspect has been by far the hardest thing to cope with. I was 56 at the time of my heart attack and it did take me quite some time to recover physically but the mental side has been really tough.
Mine has been 4 years I totally agree! The mental battle has been the toughest part. I still battle it.
I had 4 blockages. The mental game is real but there is definitely a physical aspect too. You have to really really pay attention to everything in your life as you are on a new set of medications and are in a place you've never been before. Lifestyle is key moving forward. This means diet, stress, exercise, etc. Be well guys. From a fellow who's in the same club as you!
Tim, as others have said, thanks for sharing. This is an important message. I have had serious injuries that have taken me from 100 miles an hour to 0 in an instant, and it’s not easy, but focus on your health. You have the most amazing family…cherish it.
Tom, my best wishes for you and your family, this video is a gift for all of us amateur Triathletes, looking after to improve our health. Thanks God your family have you back.❤️
OMG! Tim and family - wishing you all the best. What you told me after my ACL replacement was, "See you back on the course soon! ". So right back at ya brother with that same message. Take care. We're thinking of you.
Thanks for sharing. I’m a 60 year old 7 X IM Finisher. I’m getting ready to check out of the hospital now after finding out I had 95% blockage in my LAD artery and getting a stent during a heart cath yesterday. I ignored some signs at St George then Chatt 70.3 earlier this year. Started having all the symptoms a couple weeks ago during my workouts and took the necessary steps to find out what was going on including stopping my training. Thankfully my primary care physician caught the abnormal readings on my ECG and immediately referred me to a cardiologist. I’m looking forward to racing again next year. Good luck!
Speechless guys. Such an emotional video. Thank you for sharing.
Thank God you are ok, Tim! Praying for a fast recovery and hope to see you again soon on the road!
Tim, Rinny, Izzy & Finn...Gosh, just saw your Video and am so glad to hear that you are doing well. Much white healing light and good vibes heading to you and your wonderful family from us in 🇨🇦. Thanks for sharing your experience, you were very lucky. Onward, from a 70-74 age-grouper who has ‘raced’ with you several times. You are an inspiration.
TO: Thanks for sharing your experience and don't apologize for getting emotional. You are the best! I do believe you will save someones life by sharing your experience. I am so happy you made it! You are inspiring as a triathlete, but more inspiring as a good person.... Best of luck going forward.