### Living with Heart Failure During the COVID-19 Pandemic **By Katherine Romano, as told to Hallie Levine** Getting diagnosed with heart failure is tough, and it's even more challenging during a global pandemic. I was diagnosed with heart failure in October 2020, right after a massive heart attack. As a nurse, I knew how to care for others, but taking care of myself was a different story. Here are three things I learned about living with heart failure in a post-quarantine world. **1. Recognize the Symptoms and Seek Help:** I experienced classic heart attack symptoms while cleaning my house: severe upper back pain radiating to my left arm, nausea, and shortness of breath. Despite my hesitation to go to the emergency room during the pandemic, I realized it was the right decision. I was dizzy, vomiting, and in pain from the waist up. The doctors confirmed I was having a massive heart attack, which led to my heart failure diagnosis. **2. Embrace Rehabilitation and Exercise:** After being discharged from the hospital, I went through a 12-week cardiac rehabilitation program. It was scary to do this during COVID, but the center took all necessary safety precautions. The rehab helped me avoid another hospital visit. I also restarted my exercise routine, including walking and Zumba, despite the fatigue and shortness of breath caused by heart failure. Regular physical activity is crucial, even if it's just walking around the mall. **3. Stay Connected and Take Care of Yourself:** Social isolation is bad for the heart. After my husband's death, I began to take care of myself again, catching up on medical visits and tests. During the pandemic, I limited interactions with my children and grandchildren, but I now make an effort to stay connected. I attend my grandson's outdoor baseball games and video chat with close friends regularly. Human contact is invaluable for our hearts. Living with heart failure during the COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging, but by recognizing symptoms, embracing rehabilitation, and staying connected, I've learned to thrive.