SunHorse Wildcraft Apothecary

"I am currently dealing with some major heart trouble. My condition is called Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, it causes a short circuit in the heart, resulting in heart arrhythmias, palpitations, flutters, skipped beats, & in my case causing my heart to suddenly beat at up to 275bpm & more, with irregularities. Which has the potential to cause cardiac arrest. I've had 2 surgeries for this in the past, but it keeps coming back. I've had to go to the ER when it gets really bad. I'm waiting to see a new cardiologist, but there isn't a quick & easy solution to this disease. I've been living with this since the first episode came on when I was just 22yrs old. Unfortunately, it has now gotten to the point where I may have to have an artificial pacemaker put in. The doctors have also told me that I'm very anemic right now, which is adding to the issues.

I am not physically able to work. The major symptoms I'm having right now are: heart arrhythmia, palpitations, skipped beats, pounding heart, anemia, extreme exhaustion, blacking out, poor circulation, chest pain, shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness, nausea, anxiety, pain & numbness in extremities, disorientation, just downright feeling crappy, etc.. All it takes to trigger a dangerous arrhythmia is going up steps, walking uphill, or sometimes just from getting out of bed. Which makes it impossible to do much except lay down with my feet elevated & rest. The rest of my body feels fit & ready to take on the world, but the one organ that powers it all is teaching me the meaning of Surrender.

The heart is very important, please take care of yours, you only have one!

I am in the process of finishing my application for disability. I have not been able to work a regular job for over a year now.

When my symptoms escalated I had no idea what to do, I felt lost. How was I going to take care of myself? What was I to do with my business plans, goals & dreams? How was I going to buy food without physically being able to work?
I have been asked about when I will do the Wildcraft walks again, or if I will have another Apothecary booth at the growers markets.
I honestly don't know. No one knows this, but there were times when the heart issues happened while I was teaching on the trail and while I was working the booth at the market. Stubbornness & denial almost cost me my life.
One of my biggest wishes is to be well enough to share wilderness medicine with you all again, but I have to get myself well.

I know there are others going through the same or worse, & I know I have a good chance of still living a long happy life. The difficulties seem insurmountable at times, especially when I think of all the plans I had that are no longer possible. But I know that everything has a purpose, I will face each day with my head high & happiness in my heart.

When I posted about my scary heart condition & shared the fundraiser, I had no idea the amount of support & love that would come pouring in! Family & friends have been personally coming over to help, & many others have been generously donating!  My sweetheart made me good herbal medicine that has helped a lot & I have a best friend who opened her home for me to have a place to stay.
I feel blessed & am so very grateful.

So my priorities for life now are Hug more! Laugh everyday! Make the most of every Moment & always remember to carry a sweet song in my heart.

I am taking life one day at a time & enjoying all the little things as much as possible.

I'm doing my best to reach out to friends & family to let you all know how much I Love You!!

Your gift will help me with: nutritious food, basic needs, transportation to doctor appointments, herbs & medicine  for heart health, acupuncture therapy, sound therapy, etc.. I humbly receive with an open heart of Gratitude.

Thank you from the depths of my fireheart for your support, encouragement, & for believing in me!

❤ Namaste Mahalo!"  - Chell Fireheart

Your donation makes a big difference & is much appreciated!