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Health Podcast Library
Episode 3

Surviving a ‘widowmaker’ heart attack, with Carolyn Thomas

Apr 1, 2025
30:13

Episode Description

Carolyn Thomas was having a heart attack when an emergency room doctor diagnosed her with acid reflux and sent her home. For two weeks, she continued experiencing symptoms while attempting to live normally—all while her heart was in crisis. She tells this extraordinary story of survival, and talks about how it turned her into an advocate for women’s heart health. Also in this conversation: gender bias in cardiac care, why our awareness of heart diseases is actually worse than it used to be, and specific strategies women can use to advocate for themselves in medical settings. 

My Heart Sisters blog: https://myheartsisters.org/

A Woman's Guide to Living with Heart Disease: https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/title/11800/womans-guide-living-heart-disease

What to listen to next: Surviving a brain aneurism.

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Overlooked tells powerful stories about women's health conditions that don't get enough attention. The show is hosted by Golda Arthur, an audio journalist and producer. Learn more about the show here: www.overlookedpod.com

DISCLAIMER What you hear and read on ‘Overlooked’ is for general information purposes only and represents the opinions of the host and guests. The content on the podcast and website should not be taken as medical advice. Every person’s body is unique, so please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions that may arise.

Our music is licensed through Blue Dot Sessions.

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