Wally's Story

My name is Waldemar Katzke but everyone calls me Wally. I am a successful 52 year old business man, happily married with 2 children and 2 beautiful grandchildren. I enjoy playing golf and am a self confessed sport fanatic.

So, my journey with heart disease started 9 years ago... While playing golf, I suddenly felt chest pains and experienced uncharacteristic shortness of breath. I immediately went to see a cardiologist and an angiogram was performed.

The diagnosis was a blocked artery and a stent was inserted into the artery.

After this procedure, I did not do much to change my bad eating habits or my poor lifestyle choices.

I was diagnosed with diabetes in 2004, after suffering severe shock when a truck crashed into my house and almost hit me.

One morning earlier this year, I experienced severe pain in my lower neck, shoulder and arm. When I went to see the cardiologist, he said I would need to undergo single bypass open heart surgery.

On the 2nd of August 2008, I underwent a very successful open heart surgery and this was the wake up call I needed to begin my journey to heart vitality.

My lifestyle changes:
Since the operation I have made a concerted effort to make better lifestyle choices. I am now eating a balanced and nutritious diet; I have quit smoking and decreased my alcohol consumption considerably. A controlled but strict exercise program keeps my heart healthy and strong.

These are not easy changes to make, but with the support of my family, great medical team and FLORA, I have been able to sustain the balance necessary to keep a healthy heart. My new found vitality has even inspired me to take on some exciting challenges.

My Lifestyle Changes

Since the operation I have made a concerted effort to make better lifestyle choices. I am now eating a balanced and nutritious diet; I have quit smoking and decreased my alcohol consumption considerably. A controlled but strict exercise program keeps my heart healthy and strong.

These are not easy changes to make, but with the support of my family, great medical team and FLORA, I have been able to sustain the balance necessary to keep a healthy heart. My new found vitality has even inspired me to take on some exciting challenges.

My Future Plans

I am really excited and looking forward to 2009! The goals I have set for myself will not just be physically challenging but will put my character to the test as well. My big goal for next year is to summit Mount Kilimanjaro in August, exactly a year after my surgery. This attempt will need serious preparation, part of which will be joining the FLORA Big Heart Walk and riding the Argus Cycle Tour.

My Message

My message is very simple, live a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Follow a healthy eating plan and exercise on a regular basis. Bad habits catch up with you later in life, so don't think, "It can never happen to me!"

I hope sharing my story with you; will help you make changes in your life today!