A North Texas athlete is joining forces with NFL player Damar Hamlin to raise awareness about heart health. This collaboration comes after both faced serious heart issues.
Tom Hulsey, a Dallas resident and triathlete, can relate to Hamlin’s experience. Last year, Hamlin collapsed on the field during a game. Hulsey also faced heart challenges after competing in the Ironman Triathlon World Championship in Hawaii seven years ago. He began feeling chest discomfort and, after visiting his cardiologist, was diagnosed with severe coronary artery disease.
“I was shocked,” Hulsey said. “I was in great shape, and this really threw me for a loop.”
Hulsey underwent two procedures to have stents placed in his arteries. However, 11 months later, he experienced more symptoms and had to get three additional stents. While on the operating table, he suffered a heart attack and was later diagnosed with severe carotid artery stenosis, with one artery nearly 90% blocked.
Despite these setbacks, Hulsey, who is also a prostate cancer survivor, focused on maintaining a positive outlook. “These incidents have given me a real purpose in life, which is to help others,” he said.
Hulsey recently discovered that Hamlin is also committed to helping others. The NFL player has partnered with Abbott to create the HeartMates program, which offers support and raises awareness for those dealing with heart conditions.
“I’m proud of him for using his voice and platform to make a difference,” Hulsey stated.
Last month, Hamlin invited Hulsey to join him at a game in Buffalo, an experience Hulsey described as “really cool.”
During the weekend, Hamlin met with eight members of the Abbott HeartMates program. The group enjoyed the game from a suite, wearing jerseys that highlighted their cause. Hulsey emphasized the importance of community in addressing health challenges. “It’s critical to talk about it and have others around you who are your village,” he said.
Additionally, Hulsey has written a book titled The Winning Mindset That Saved My Life. He encourages those facing adversity to understand that they are not alone in their struggles.
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