In 2015, Carin survived a Type A aortic dissection. This means the inner layer of the aorta tore. The aorta is the main artery that carries blood throughout the entire body.
After recovering from open heart surgery, Carin realized there was a lack of support for individuals who have experienced this near fatal event so she became a co-founder and president of the globally recognized non-profit Aortic Hope. Aortic Hope focuses on providing support to survivors and caregivers during the recovery and management of Aortic Disease. In addition, they provide much needed support to individuals who have lost loved ones as well.
Carin hopes everyone shares their medical history with family and doctors. If anyone in your family has/had an aneurysm, condition that is inflammatory in nature or passed suddenly, having a scan to check the size of your Aorta could be beneficial. It is important to note that Aortic disease is usually genetic in nature. Aneurysms, which are asymptomatic, may lead to a dissection or rupture if undiagnosed or untreated.
Carin had Crohn’s disease and received an ostomy in 2018 which put her into remission. However, she is more than her chronic health conditions. She is a daughter, sister, wife and mother. She loves painting, ballroom dancing and musical theater. Carin subscribes to the idea that it isn’t whether the glass is half empty or half full because it is refillable. She makes sure to thrive everyday and not just survive.
Aortic Hope has promoted Rare Patient Voice throughout the aortic community and more.
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If you are interested in being featured as a Weekly Warrior, please contact Stacey Haines at Stacey.Haines@rarepatientvoice.com.
