When Slow Became Serious — But Didn’t Stop the Ride

I’ve always thought a low heart rate was a good thing. We’re told that athletes often have slower pulses, which can mean your heart is “efficient.” But what happens when that slow beat isn’t a sign of fitness — but of something far more serious?

Last fall (2024), my life underwent a change I never expected. I was diagnosed with heart failure after months of fatigue, shortness of breath, and a heart rate that seemed to keep dipping lower and lower. I brushed it off at first — “I’m just tired,” I told myself. “Maybe I’m dehydrated.” But deep down, something didn’t feel right. I told myself several "reasons" or "explanations" of why my heart rate is so low:

2001 Diagnosed with Enlarged Thyroid with multiple nodules (Ultrasound every year since)

2013 Diagnosed with a Brain Tumor, followed by emergency Brain Surgery

2013 Diagnosed with Vertigo & Equilibrium/Balance Issues

2014 Diagnosed with Chronic Migraines

2023 Diagnosed with Bradycardia (WARNING SIGNS - IGNORED)

2024 Diagnosed with Heart Failure - Cardiomyopathy

2025 Diagnosed with Thyroid Disease - Hashimoto

The Warning Signs I Missed

Looking back, the clues were there. My resting heart rate had dropped into the 30s. I’d get lightheaded walking up stairs, and naps became less of a luxury and more of a necessity. But, like many of us, I explained it away. Life was busy.

Then came the day I couldn’t ignore it anymore.

Facing the Diagnosis

Hearing the words “heart failure” felt surreal. I thought that was something that happened to other people — older people, people who didn’t take care of themselves. But the truth is, heart failure can happen to anyone, and it doesn’t mean your heart has stopped. It means it isn’t pumping blood as effectively as it should.

For me, it was linked to a dangerously low heart rate — bradycardia — which had caused my body to slow down in ways I didn’t even realize. My doctors explained that when your heart rate stays too low for too long, your organs and muscles don’t

get enough oxygen. It’s like running your life on half power.

The Road to Recovery

Since that diagnosis, every day has been about learning — learning what my body needs, how to listen more closely, and how to manage heart failure without letting it define me. I’ve had medical procedures, changed medications, adjusted my lifestyle, and had to slow down in ways that sometimes frustrate me.

But I’ve also learned to be grateful for the slowdown. It forced me to pay attention. It reminded me how precious every steady heartbeat really is.

Why I’m Sharing This

If you’re reading this and you’ve noticed your heart rate dipping lower than usual — or if you’ve been feeling constantly tired, dizzy, or just “off” — please don’t ignore it. Get it checked. What seems like a small issue could be your body’s way of sending an urgent message.

Heart health isn’t something we can take for granted, and “low” doesn’t always mean “healthy.”

Last year, my slow heart nearly stopped me in my tracks — literally. This year, I’m choosing to move forward with awareness, gratitude, and a stronger sense of purpose.

But here’s the thing: I didn’t let it stop me.

The Road Still Calls

Even with a heart that’s been through the wringer, the call of the open road is something I can’t ignore. Riding has always been "OUR" therapy — the rumble of the engine, the wind against my face, the freedom of endless miles ahead. It’s where I feel most alive, and no diagnosis is going to take that from me.

Since my diagnosis, we’ve still traveled and clocked long miles and shown up at rallies and events that keep our biker family connected. There have been days when I’ve had to rest more, hydrate better, or take things slower like Sturgis, for example... I think I was in bed for the entire 2 weeks :( But the point is, I’m still doing it.

Because life doesn’t end with heart failure. You just learn to live it smarter, to listen to your body, and to ride with even more gratitude.

Moving Forward in 2026 - we have BIG plans with The Ornery One, Support2UP Motorcycle

Riding & Elements of the Old Soul, as well as our new homestead: Gritstone Acres.

Riding with a New Perspective

Every mile means more now. Every sunrise ride, every late-night rally, every moment shared on the road feels like a victory. I’ve learned to appreciate the balance — to take care of my heart and feed my soul.

Yes, I have to plan ahead more. Yes, I have to stay mindful of my limits. But when I’m out there on two wheels, heart beating steady beneath my jacket, I’m reminded that I’m still here. Still strong. Still rolling.

My Message to Anyone Facing the Same Battle

Don’t let fear or a diagnosis steal what you love. Adjust, adapt, and keep chasing the things that make you feel alive. Whether that’s riding cross-country, attending rallies, or just feeling the hum of the engine beneath you — hold onto it.

My heart might have slowed down, but my spirit hasn’t. And as long as I can throw a leg over the bike, I’ll keep moving — one mile, one heartbeat, one adventure at a time.

I can't wait to meet YOU at the next rally!!

Because even with a heart that’s had to work harder, I’m still here. Still beating. Still living.