Update on my Health

Well, it has been two weeks and not much has changed. To update, on May 1, I had a MIBI and treadmill/stress test that showed no detectable problems with my heart. The treating doctor reduced my blood pressure medications and advised I take it easy for a week and see if this adjustment improves my blood pressure.

On May 9, I met with my doctor for re-evaluation. My blood pressure was still extremely low (97/51). My blood pressure would drop even lower after standing up from a seated position (90/45) which also still caused dizziness and a narrowing of my vision. The doctor this time ceased all blood pressure medication and advised me to use caution when driving, climbing stairs and doing anything strenuous.

Another series of EKG/EEG and blood work all showed normal. I have been charting my blood pressure now for three weeks and it remains extremely low. My resting pressure hovers around 90/45 most days and has been as low at 85/38.

I am not taking any medications at this point to regulate my blood pressure. My next appointment is on Wednesday the 21st.

At this point it does not look good for me getting back on the trail for a thru hike of the PCT. I am hoping I can get my blood pressure under control and be able to at least do some serious sections of the PCT. I am thinking of hiking from Kennedy Meadows to Echo Lake. That would be doable if I am able to get back in June. I would need to do some shorter hikes at lower elevations first to prepare, but everything else is in place.

I appreciate the calls, emails and well wishes from everyone. I wish my update was more positive and that I could get back on the trail. But having just retired and wanting to live long and enjoy my retirement, I am proceeding with an abundance of caution and taking one day at a time.

I will provide more after the 21st. Until then.... Enjoy each day and cherish life.