OutrunningMyShadow.com by Keith Ahrens, CFT

This Blog Has Moved To www.KeithAhrens.com

2010-11-17T15:14:00.000-08:00

Keith's blog has moved

www.KeithAhrens.com or www.OutrunningMyShadow.com

The new blog / site has much more content. You can easily follow the new Blog by subscribing and getting the most current posts.

Thanks, Keith

www.KeithAhrens.com www.OutrunningMyShadow.com

The Best Time For Your Heart? - Keith Ahrens

2010-10-27T16:05:00.000-07:00

“When is the best time to exercise? Is it morning, noon, or night? How about 3am, 3pm, when the sunrises or the stars shine? The correct answer is -- The best time to exercise is the time that you WILL exercise! Find your niche, find your time but make activity and exercise a daily heart healthy priority.” - Keith

Are You Prepared?

2010-10-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

“Recertified for my CPR – AED Adult, Child and Infant Training today. It’s always good to get the practice using AED devices and Performing CPR. You never know when you’ll be called upon or have to step in to save a life. Being prepared can make a scary situation seem less scary. Are you ready? Please visit the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross web sites for classes in your area.” - Keith

An Ounce of Prevention .....

2010-10-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

"Why don’t we get check ups? Many people are in a state of denial, have fears, too busy, don't want to know if there's a problem, hate doctors, afraid of blood work, may feel embarrassed to discover a problem etc..... I could go on and on about excuses I've heard. But at the end of the day, they're just excuses. Get a check up! Save your life!" - Keith

Confidence - Feel It

2010-10-17T14:23:00.000-07:00

“Have confidence in someone else. Have confidence in yourself. I know what its like for people have confidence in me. Other people’s confidence has brought me through some very difficult times. Today I share my confidence in you. You deserve it. Feel proud and empowered to know that someone, somewhere is confident in you.” – Keith

Proud, Very Proud

2010-10-15T19:54:00.000-07:00

Team "Outrunning My Shadow" So far - $2785 raised, #1 Community Team, #5 overall team. Way to go team and contributors. Also, as last years AHA Lifestyle Change Award Recipient, The AHA asked me to present the award to this years recipient.
Las Vegas American Heart Association Heart Walk October 16, 2010

1st Place Going Into The Final Stretch

2010-10-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

Here we go. Team "Outrunning My Shadow" is the top Community Team as of today in our fundraising efforts for Saturday's Heart Walk. We've exceeded our team goal and want to go even higher.

It's still not too late to donate and help make a difference. Lives will be saved. The money goes directly to research, grant funding, and awareness campaigns. Follow the link below for more information.

Thank you so much for your Heart Healthy support. Keith

“Headline: Heart Disease Researchers Find A Cure?” - Keith Ahrens

2010-10-10T16:49:00.000-07:00

“HEADLINE: Heart Disease Researchers Find A Cure” ???

Well, maybe not yet, but if I have my way I’ll see this headline in my lifetime. I try every day to do something to rid this planet of this terrible killer.” - Keith

Las Vegas Health - Keith Ahrens

2010-10-08T20:26:00.000-07:00

Heart Disease, Obesity & Sleep | Las Vegas Health Magazine

Click on the above link to read the article.

Las Vegas Health Magazine. An Article by Sharon Chayra, October 8, 2010.
Sharon interviewed me for this article on heart disease and obesity. She's a terrific writer and health advocate. Enjoy.

I Like It In The "___________"

2010-10-08T17:19:00.000-07:00

“I like it in the loft and doing it in public. Of course, I’m talking about exercise. Where do you like to do it? Location should never be an excuse not to get in some daily exercise or activity. Fitness is the least expensive and most effective “natural-medicine” we can take. In addition to helping your heart with daily exercise and activity, this is also breast cancer awareness month. Get your checkup and routine screenings.” - Keith

Team Outrunning My Shadow

2010-10-05T14:50:00.000-07:00

Team Outrunning My Shadow has raised over $1000 for the American Heart Association. Our walk is October 16 in Las Vegas. Any donation, large or small is appreciated and heart felt:) The link above will take you directly to the donation page and give more information. Heart Healthier Days Ahead. Thanks for the support.

Here's 10 For You:)

2010-10-03T17:02:00.000-07:00

“10 minutes of exercise for everyone. When I work out, I’ll do an extra 10 minutes thinking of everyone that needs a little push and encouragement to get moving. Knowing that I’ll do 10 minutes thinking of you, will you match it and do 10 minutes thinking of yourself? Remember, we all started somewhere” – Keith

Is Your Glass Half Full?

2010-10-03T16:04:00.000-07:00

“Hostility, pessimism, and cynicism can hurt your heart health. I believe everyone deserves to be happy and healthy. Studies have shown that an optimistic and positive way of thinking reduces the risk for developing heart disease. Optimistic people seem to make better lifestyle choices. Optimism may lead to lower blood pressure and reduced stress. It appears positive thinking just may save your life.” - Keith

Interesting?

2010-09-29T17:13:00.000-07:00

“Could the worst news about your own health, or a loved ones, actually be the best news you’ve ever heard?” - Keith

One More Hug

2010-09-27T11:05:00.000-07:00

“Is it possible to get someone to do something healthier for just a hug? When you ask your spouse, kids, or a friend to do something that will make them healthier, tell them you’ll give them a hug. What may not seem like a big deal today, may mean the world to them tomorrow. What would you give to hug a family member or friend just one more time that has passed away?” - Keith

No Charge, Really! - Keith Ahrens

2010-09-24T15:55:00.000-07:00

“A Good Attitude is Free. No Charge and You Make it For Yourself. It’s an easy recipe that's definitely Heart Healthy. It’s the bad attitude that costs us.” - Keith

Keith's Golden Rule

2010-09-21T16:44:00.000-07:00

“We all know the golden rule, “Treat others as you wish to be treated”. I say, “Treat yourself the way you treat other people”. We often treat our family and friends much better than we treat ourselves. Why? Put yourself at the front of the line when it comes to heart healthy lifestyle changes. You deserve it. I’m a big believer in putting yourself first. The impact it’s had on my life and how many people I’ve been able to help and influence has been immeasurable.” - Keith

American Heart Association Heart Walk - Keith Ahrens

2010-09-18T17:02:00.000-07:00

Keith's Heart Walk Page - Click Here:)

The Heart Walk is coming up on October 16th. Please support me or any one of the members on team "Outrunning My Shadow" at this years AHA Heart Walk.

It's easy to donate and takes just a few minutes. $5, $10, $20, or whatever you can donate will help saves lives.

Thanks you so much your continued support:) Heart Healthier days Ahead:) - Keith

Misdiagnosed?

2010-09-18T11:00:00.000-07:00

Misdiagnosis? I’ve heard from several people recently about them being misdiagnosed by their doctor. I haven’t done much research on this topic. Perhaps this is more common than I thought. I’m a big believer in 2^nd or even 3^rd opinions. I’m not speaking about simply not liking what the doctor says, but actually misdiagnosing a condition that has become a much bigger issue. Thoughts? - Keith

Just a Small Change Makes a Big Difference

2010-09-12T14:47:00.000-07:00

“We can create a Heart Healthy Week. Ask yourself, “What behaviors can I change this week?” Make a small commitment and stick to it.

Some ideas: No eating after 6pm and no nibbling while cooking. If your watching TV, move during the 2 minute commercial breaks. Take the stairs at work. Park the car just a little further away. No finishing the kids’ meals. Drink a little more water. Eat an extra piece of fruit or serving of veggies. Take a look around and identify a few behaviors you can change this week. Make at least one small commitment of change that will help your heart health. - Keith

A Better Doctors Visit

2010-09-12T14:44:00.000-07:00

Keith’s 7 tips for a better Doctor’s visits:

1. Introduce yourself to the doctor, shake hands, and make eye contact when they come in the room. Remember, It’s about YOU.

2. Always have a pen and paper with you. The doctor will see that you’re paying attention to what they say and know that you are taking notes. Besides it's often hard to remember some of the little things.

3. Before your visit, if possible, write down exactly how you're feeling and what the symptoms are. Write down any questions you have also. We tend to forget things when we're sitting in the doctor’s office. After we leave it's no time to say, "I wish I remembered to tell him/her that".

4. Be as specific as possible. I found out that there can be a huge difference in what patients are able to communicate with their doctors as they go further up the specialty ladder.

5. If you have time before your visit, search the symptoms you're feeling on the Internet. Some words you discover might more accurately describe your symptoms.

6. For routine visits I bring my old numbers such as total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, ratios, triglycerides, blood pressure, and pulse. It allows me to write the new numbers side by side so I can see a snapshot of improvement.

7. Always have written down any medications, exact dosages and frequency for all medications and/or vitamins you may be taking. Share this information with your doctor. This alone could save your life.

Remember, you're in charge of your own medical team:) Keith

Putting It In Perspective

2010-09-08T13:29:00.000-07:00

On a radio interview from southern Texas, we were discussing Heart Healthy Lifestyle Changes and the host said to me, “You don’t eat fried chicken anymore?” I told him “not any more”. He said, “I could never give up my fried chicken. That would be way too extreme.” “Extreme”, I said. “To me, extreme is an eleven-inch scar on my chest.” To that he responded, “Well, I guess I can cut way back on my fried chicken”. - Keith

Giving Back From The Heart

2010-09-06T09:32:00.000-07:00

Please watch the video and learn about someone making a difference. Get your checkup and screening. The life you save may be your own. Thanks Holly for your tireless efforts to save lives and prevent Sudden Cardiac Arrest.
KTLA Heroes at Home: Athlete Dedicates Life to Fighting Sudden Cardiac Arrest -- ktla.com

A Great Day to Share

2010-09-03T20:05:00.000-07:00

“Today I delivered the Keynote Speech for the Howard County Public School System education conference. There were 150 Health and Physical Education teachers in attendance. The break out sessions were focused on nutrition, obesity prevention and physical fitness and technology. These great teachers are on the front line of the obesity epidemic and need our support. The heart health of our children depend on it. They positively impact the lives of every student they work with. One teacher told me that my speech could impact as many as 50,000 students. What a feeling:)” - Keith

Slow and Steady = Results

2010-09-01T09:57:00.000-07:00

“Most experts agree with me that small shifts and small lifestyle changes lead to long-term success for losing weight and maintaining weight loss as well as improving our physical fitness. The diet industry is a $60 billion industry built on failure. When is the last time you saw a weight loss product on TV that said you could lose 3 pounds over 3 weeks?” - Keith

Turn It On

2010-08-30T13:22:00.000-07:00

“Everyone needs to find the inspiration and motivation that can flip the switch that will lead to the heart healthier life that we deserve. The thing is that you have to reach for the switch and flip it yourself. Others may inspire and motivate you, but you have to make the first move. I say, Turn It On” - Keith

A Hard Day Will Pass

2010-08-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

“Unfortunately, I know first hand what its like to have heart disease and open-heart surgery as a result of not taking care of myself. It can be a hard and challenging journey for many of us to a healthier life. The one thing I've learned is that the hard days last as long as we allow them to last. We can change our habits and make the right decisions on activity and nutrition.” - Keith

Something to Think About

2010-08-26T16:35:00.000-07:00

“Why should you be doing something to improve your heart health? I want you to think about what's in it for you? Ask yourself this. What one thing would you like to do or feel that you can't do now or haven't felt in years?” – Keith

Anniversary

2010-08-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

“August 23, 2007, is the day I had my open-heart surgery. I remember as if it were yesterday. I would imagine all survivors could relate to how I feel. I’m more alive today than I’ve ever been. I’ve lost over 200 pounds (without surgery) and feel great. I exercise and try to eat heart healthy everyday. Each day presents new challenges and obstacles but I do my best. Everyday is the greatest day of my life.” - Keith

A Day at a Time

2010-08-22T15:39:00.000-07:00

“Tomorrow's a new day as is the next. We decide how that day will go by our actions. Plan ahead the night before. Think Heart Health for the day and keep it in your mind. Use little reminders such as notes to yourself to help keep you on track. Make the right decisions and the momentum builds 1 minute, 1 hour, and 1 day at a time. Make it your day:)” - Keith

Now, Today, Tomorrow and Next Week

2010-08-20T23:37:00.000-07:00

“For many people their first Heart Attack or Stroke is their last. Sad … but true. Education, Awareness and Prevention are the tools we have to combat the deadly and often preventable diseases that cause heart attack and stroke. Do something now; today, tomorrow and next week to positively impact your own life. It’s a gift you will cherish forever.” - Keith

Sticking To It

2010-08-15T15:19:00.000-07:00

“If losing weight were so simple, there would be no obesity epidemic. There are no quick fixes and fads don’t work. Believe me, I’ve tried most them. The fact is that losing weight is very difficult for most of us. It’s hard but the rewards of shedding the excess pounds (even a few) have unparalleled health benefits. The best diet or fitness program is the one that you’ll do and stick with that is nutritionally balanced and safe.” - Keith

Stressed Out?

2010-08-11T19:22:00.000-07:00

“Stress is certainly a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Reducing stress may be as beneficial as exercise and diet in preventing these diseases. Exercise, even short walks, and getting enough sleep may dramatically reduce stress in your life.” - Keith

The Good Fight

2010-08-09T18:57:00.000-07:00

I HATE Heart Disease!

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home (live @ kcrw)

2010-08-09T01:52:00.000-07:00

This song makes me feel great:) I love the lyrics "Home is wherever I'm with you." Did it put a smile on your face? - Keith

Choices

2010-08-06T21:39:00.000-07:00

“It's more challenging to eat healthier when healthier choices are not readily available or simply unaffordable. We must simply do the BEST we can under the circumstances. Because healthier choices are more expensive we must strive to make the BEST choices we can.” - Keith

The Wrong Direction

2010-08-06T16:37:00.000-07:00

“According to a new report by the CDC, Obesity rates went up 1.1% between 2007 and 2009. In the past two years, 2.4 million people have joined the ranks of the obese. More than 70 million people are obese which is just over 26% of the population. The percentage of “overweight” adults is much higher. Heart disease and other related illnesses are surely expected to rise. I just want to scream” - Keith

Keeping It Real

2010-08-05T14:41:00.000-07:00

"I had 3 radio interviews today. One host asked if I prayed about not overeating to stay healthy. Well, I don’t talk religion or politics. I did tell her I said Keith’s prayer. When I wake up I say “Help Me Make It Through The Day And Keep The Food At Bay”, and at night I say “At The End Of The Day I Kept The Food At Away”. - Keith

Spices Keep It Heart Healthy

2010-08-02T15:47:00.000-07:00

“I get asked what spices I use. Looking in my pantry I have pepper, garlic powder, paprika, smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, sweet basil, parsley, rosemary, crushed red pepper, cumin, tumeric, coriander, oregano, and chili powder. I use a lot of fresh herbs and garlic too. What do you use to keep it tasty?” - Keith

Nurses Are The Best

2010-07-31T02:11:00.000-07:00

“I went to a wedding reception and there were 3 Cardiac ER nurses there. One of them said that this was the safest party in town and that there was no way anyone could die there. She said that if something were to happen the patient would surely survive at least until they got to the hospital. It was the funniest and truest thing I have heard in a long while. Nurses are the greatest. They do what the doctors can’t” - Keith

We Are The Cure!

2010-07-30T10:32:00.000-07:00

We are the Cure. Since 1999, the death rate from coronary heart disease has decreased by 23%; the death rate from stroke has been reduced by 19%; and high cholesterol prevalence was reduced by 20%.Much of this success in fighting cardiovascular diseases and stroke is due to the research, public education efforts, medical training and community health programs funded by the American Heart Association. Source: AHA

Blood Is Thicker Than Water.... But Mostly Water

2010-07-29T16:12:00.000-07:00

“Pumping from our heart, It takes blood about 20 seconds to circulate throughout the entire vascular system. Blood is approximately 78% water. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of plain water. Water is key to good health and weight control.” - Keith

Do You Have A List?

2010-07-26T13:10:00.000-07:00

“Shop with a list. No list, No grocery shopping. This has really helped me keep the garbage (unhealthy) foods away and out of the house. Impulse buying for me is almost non-existent. Add heart healthy foods to your list and stick to it. Keep a grocery list on the counter and add items throughout the week. Remember, If it doesn’t go in the cart, it can’t hitch a ride home.” - Keith

Heart Walk Coming Up

2010-07-24T22:30:00.000-07:00

Please join team "Outrunning My Shadow" for the 2010 American Heart Association Heart Walk. Feel free to donate or sign up and walk with our team. If you are out of state you can certainly sign up and be a virtual walker. I understand how rough the economy is for many. Feel free to join the team even if you can't donate at this time. I would be honored to walk for you or in honor or memory of a loved one. This year I will be walking again as a Heart Attack, Open-Heart Surgery and Obesity Survivor. I will also be walking in memory of my co-captains brother Michael, who lost his life to a stroke this year. Everyone suffering or that has been affected by Heart Disease and related illnesses will be with me in spirit. Thank you for your support and remember even a $5 donation makes a difference in the prevention, awareness and research to defeat these diseases. Heart Healthy Days Ahead, Keith (a safe link to my Heart Walk page is below)
Link to my American Heart Association Heart Walk Page

Choose Fruit

2010-07-21T15:36:00.000-07:00

“The Heart Healthy benefits of fruits are enormous. Fruits are rich in fiber, natural minerals, and vitamins to name a few. Choose a variety of colorful fruits and snack away. I’ve had some fantastic nectarines, blueberries and red seedless grapes in the last couple weeks. Look for what’s on sale to tell you what’s in season and fresh. What great tasting fruits have you had lately?” - Keith

Let's Get On The Ride

2010-07-18T15:30:00.000-07:00

“A Lifestyle Change can be like a roller coaster. We’re nervous and scared before we get on it. The biggest fear is when it starts. After the first drop we feel relieved and catch our breath, although there may be some more ups and downs. When the ride is over we say it wasn’t as bad as we thought it would be. We’re usually happy that we can say, “We Did It”. Start your Heart Healthy ride today.” - Keith

A Big Thank You

2010-07-15T18:19:00.000-07:00

“A big “Thank You” to the medical students at Touro University for having me speak and share my journey and fight with Heart Disease and Obesity. Your questions at the end made the presentation even better. You will each save and change many lives for the better. Heart healthy Days to you and best of luck in school.” - Keith

The Best Hospitals in the World

2010-07-15T13:04:00.000-07:00

US News Best Hospitals List (Link to US News Report)
The Best Hospital List is out again. Congratulations to my friends and doctors at Johns Hopkins Medical Center and The Cleveland Clinic.

Yes I can Do It!

2010-07-14T15:41:00.000-07:00

“I didn’t know I could do that. We’ve all said those words? They’re true until we actually take the action to do what we thought we couldn’t do. Our lives can only move forward based on the action we take. What we need to realize is that for any challenge we face, we hold all the answers and solutions within ourselves. Yes, I can do it.” - Keith

A Name Change

2010-07-14T15:39:00.000-07:00

"The title to my book was originally, “I Can And I Did”. I changed the name when “Outrunning My Shadow” came to me at 3 in the morning." - Keith

Yes or No?

2010-07-11T16:29:00.000-07:00

“Remember, getting healthier and more fit is not a race or contest. HEART HEALTHY, YES or NO? Ask yourself this when you start to eat something or do something. I do it all the time. If you say NO, then you may do or eat less of it:)” - Keith

Small Wins

2010-07-11T16:21:00.000-07:00

“Winning the little battles against heart disease and obesity makes it easier to win the war. Start fighting now.” - Keith

Take 5 for Your Heart and Make it 20

2010-07-08T17:04:00.000-07:00

“5 turns into 10. 15 into 20. For many of us, the hardest part about exercising is just getting started. When I exercise it seems if I commit to 30 minutes of cardio it turns into 45-60 minutes. When I started exercising regularly, a commitment of 5 minutes turned to 10 then to 20 and so on. So just commit to 5 minutes of exercise or activity and watch it grow. So “take 5” and get healthier. Your heart will thank you.”- Keith

Join Our HeartWalk Team as a Virtual Walker or Donate

2010-07-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

Feel free to join Team "Outrunning My Shadow" as a virtual walker or please donate and join the fight to erase heart disease, stroke, and obesity.

3 Years Ago on July 6, 2007

2010-07-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

“The cardiologist put the catheter in my leg and moved it towards my heart. After injecting the dye, I remember his words of concern as if they were yesterday. He said, “Keith, this is not good. You have 3 completely occluded arteries. I’m going to talk to your sister.” That was July 6^th 2007. On this day I found out that I needed open-heart surgery to save my life.” - Keith

Excuses Be Gone

2010-07-05T15:49:00.000-07:00

“I know all the excuses we give ourselves not to exercise. I was the king of excuses. I think I’ve used most of them. It wasn’t until I realized that in the time it took me think of the excuse, I could’ve put on my sneakers and started to exercise. Excuses don’t help your heart—action does.” - Keith

2010-07-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

Have a Heart Healthy, Safe and Happy 4th of July
Rolling Thunder - A Marines Vigil

It's About You

2010-06-30T16:04:00.000-07:00

“Life is too short and your Heart Health is too important to worry about nonsense from others. Remember its none of your business what others think about you. Instead, use that energy to improve your own health and wellness.” – Keith

Never a Burden

2010-06-27T16:40:00.000-07:00

“Eating healthier, becoming more active, and taking care of your heart should never be a burden or feel like one. It’s an opportunity to live happier, healthier, stronger and longer.” - Keith

Because You Asked

2010-06-27T16:39:00.000-07:00

“Know your numbers and take action to improve them no matter how good or bad they may be. I have been asked how my numbers compare to when I had my heart attack. My numbers in a snapshot--April 12 2007 Total Cholesterol-300, LDL-245, HDL-33, Triglycerides-250, Ratio-9.09, June 23 2010 Total Cholesterol-110, LDL-56, HDL-41, Triglycerides-67, Ratio-2.68“ - Keith

A Risk Factor You Can Reduce

2010-06-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

“I was recently asked what my Triglycerides were before my heart attack and what are they now. In April 2007 my Triglycerides were at 250, which is considered very high. My levels now maintain around 67 and have been as low as 56. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood. High Triglycerides can increase your risk of heart disease. Lifestyle change and diet directly affect your levels. The following are ways to reduce your levels. Get regular exercise/activity, limit fats in your diet, reduce sugar intake, don’t smoke and reduce alcohol consumption and maintain a healthy weight. I have a link on my website “resources”>>”heart disease” for more info.” - Keith

Click Your Heals and Make a Change

2010-06-20T15:57:00.000-07:00

“I may have lost a battle or two with heart disease and obesity in my past. But now I’m confident I’m winning the war. If Dorothy had the power to go home all along by clicking her heals, then why would we think we couldn’t make a small change by clicking ours? Each of us has the innate ability to make small shifts, small changes if you will, to positively impact our lives.”

Father's Day Wishes

2010-06-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

“Happy Fathers Day to all the great Dads out there and in heaven and to the many Uncles and Brothers that stepped up when a dad may not have been there.” - Keith

Pay Attention and Don't Ignore Symptoms

2010-06-17T15:35:00.000-07:00

I had a tough day. I woke up at 4am to go to the bathroom. I had some discomfort on the left side of my back. Kidney area. The discomfort quickly turned to pain and kept getting worse. I couldn't sleep and knew something was wrong. Around 6am I was getting scared thinking it could be a kidney stone or worse. At 7am I couldn't take it any more and called the 24hr nurse line from the insurance company. We talked and I simply couldn't wait to go to urgent care (which opened at 8am) and decided to get to the emergency room. I went to St. Rose where my heart surgery was. Yes, I was in a lot of pain. After a shot of Dilaudid for pain they did a CT scan. It turned out I had a severe kidney infection that came on super fast with no warning. Antibiotic and Pain medication prescribed. The ER doctor and nurse were fantastic and the staff was great as well. I can't explain how I got it (either could the doctor) but I feel like the luckiest guy in the world. I'm in the best shape I've ever been in and I can deal with an infection. I was scared. It just goes to show you that things can and do work out for us. Now this wasn't a heart attack but my instincts told me it was too much for me to handle and I couldn't take a chance. I'm gonna get some sleep. Have a heart healthy night. - Keith

It's Just Routine

2010-06-16T16:29:00.000-07:00

"The big thing about a routine is that you get used to doing it and it then feels strange when you don't do it. Shifting your thinking just a little is what it takes. I used to have a routine of eating toxic fast food and sedentary couch sitting. I changed my routine and gained momentum by making small changes. I believe that it’s innate in all of us to do the same. The first step is what it takes. Then we need to repeat that same step the next day." - Keith

This Video Could Save A Life - Hands Only CPR - Be Prepared

2010-06-14T20:42:00.000-07:00

Hands Only CPR. Take the time to visit the link at the bottom of this article and watch the video. Share the video with people you know. It may be you who must act.

This is re-published from the AHA website - Keith

CPR. A lifesaving action.

When an adult has a sudden cardiac arrest, his or her survival depends greatly on immediately getting CPR from someone nearby. Unfortunately, less than 1/3 of those people who experience a cardiac arrest at home, work or in a public location get that help. Most bystanders are worried that they might do something wrong or make things worse. That’s why the AHA has simplified things.

Don’t be afraid. Your actions can only help.

It’s not normal to see an adult suddenly collapse, but if you do, call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest. Don’t be afraid. Your actions can only help. Take a minute and look around this site and invite your friends! Increasing the number of people who know about Hands-OnlyTM CPR will increase the chance that someone can help when an adult suddenly collapses, and more lives can be saved.

Hands Only CPR from the American Heart Association

What's The Best Exercise?

2010-06-13T16:32:00.000-07:00

“The best exercise is the exercise/activity that you can and will do. Forget the excuses and find something that you have fun doing. It should be fun and not an exercise/activity that you hate to do. Your endurance and momentum will build quickly. It’s much easier to make something fun part of a regular routine.” - Keith

Health Is Good

2010-06-11T15:55:00.000-07:00

“The side effects from being healthier and fit are the least of your problems.” My answer to an interviewers question about any problems I’ve encountered from losing over 200 pounds. - Keith

Skinny Scoopers Success Story Keith Ahrens

2010-06-08T18:19:00.000-07:00

Skinny Scoopers Success Story Keith Ahrens

SkinnyScoopers.com added me to their website. Thanks so much for the exposure Skinny Scoopers:)

A Little Adds A Lot

2010-06-08T16:40:00.000-07:00

“For each extra pound of weight we carry, we put between 4 – 5 pounds of pressure on our knees. It’s amazing how even just a little weight loss can make you feel so much better.” - Keith

Reduce Your Risk

2010-06-06T15:28:00.000-07:00

“Many studies have shown that a small weight loss of 5% to 10% of your current weight can dramatically reduce your risk of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and other potential medical problems.” - Keith

Keith - Towson Alumni Magazine

2010-06-02T14:57:00.000-07:00

Weighty Matters by Bill Sheridan
This article was written for the Summer 2010 Towson University Alumni Magazine.
Feel free to share this article with your friends.
http://www.towsonalumnimagazine.com/towson/2010summer#pg10

Obesogenic

2010-06-01T16:35:00.000-07:00

“We are living in an “Obesogenic” or “Fat Creating Society”. The odds are stacked against many of us. The temptations to not eat healthy and be sedentary are great. Finding and eating healthy foods and snacks challenge many everyday. The stronger the challenge, the stronger the fight, the greater the victory. I say, bring it on.” - Keith

Did the Motorcycle Get Bigger or What?

2010-05-30T18:02:00.000-07:00

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Pounds... I mean Words:)

Memorial Day Tribute

2010-05-30T15:06:00.000-07:00

“Just finished the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Day run. Well over 500 motorcycles. The run starts on the Arizona side of the Hoover Dam and rides across into Nevada to the Boulder City Veterans Cemetery. National Anthem, Green Berets, Air Force Honor Guard, and 21 Gun Salute. I also visited the grave of a close friend of mine. It was great to see and ride with my friends again. God Bless the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice and for those who currently serve and those who have served. I honor them” - Keith

Big, Bold, and Cold

2010-05-28T16:10:00.000-07:00

“Heart Healthy substitutes this picnic weekend. Make a Big, Bold and Cold fruit salad. Skip the potato salad and coleslaw. Grill the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a nice dry rub, low or no salt is best. Watch the alcohol, as they are just empty calories. Stay Hydrated. Drink plenty of water.” - Keith

It Saved My Life

2010-05-27T17:41:00.000-07:00

“An abnormal EKG diagnosis saved my life. Make sure an EKG (electrocardiogram) is part of a your routine annual exam. An EKG records the electrical activity of your heart. An EKG will assess your heart rhythm, diagnose poor blood flow to the heart muscle (ischemia), diagnose a heart attack, and evaluate certain abnormalities of your heart, such as an enlarged heart.” - Keith

My Boo Boo

2010-05-23T14:45:00.000-07:00

“I was at the park and kid asked me about my boo boo (the scar) on my chest. I told him I got the scar in the Canadian / American War. His dad looked perplexed and I told him I was stationed in Niagara Falls and we stopped the invasion before it hit the news. I continued my walk.” - Keith

He said What?

2010-05-18T15:50:00.000-07:00

“Its none of your business what other people think of you. Life’s too short and your heart health is too important to worry about nonsense from others. Instead, use that energy to improve your own health and wellness.” – Keith

Make Today Your Tomorrow

2010-05-14T16:29:00.000-07:00

“Do you want to have a healthier heart, exercise more, eat better? Are you putting it off for tomorrow? Think to yourself "If Not Today, Then When?" It needs to start now.” - Keith

Is Your Path Paved?

2010-05-11T16:24:00.000-07:00

“As far as seeing the path, I’m still trying to figure out what's next and make the right decisions. You see my path isn't paved all the way. I'm paving it myself as I move forward. I will always be fighting Heart Disease and Obesity in my own life. Each day brings new rewards and old challenges.” - Keith

Join the Team - Save a Life

2010-05-10T15:23:00.000-07:00

The American Heart Association asked me to start a team for the 2010 AHA Heart Walk. So I answered the call. Please feel free to donate. I would love to have you join team "Outrunning My Shadow". You can be a virtual walker if you would like. If you can't be there I will be honored to walk for you.
To Donate or Join Team "Outrunning My Shadow" Click Here and Click on Team Page and then "Join the Team"

You Gave Me Everything. Thanks Mom.

2010-05-08T22:57:00.000-07:00

“Happy Mother's Day to every Mom out there. I salute each of you for your unconditional Love of each child. Today is your day. A Heart is the greatest symbol of Love, so keep your heart strong. My mom passed on but I’ll celebrate and cherish Mothers Day as I did when she was with us. Thanks Mom for giving me everything I could ever want and more” - Keith

Stay Hydrated

2010-05-07T17:59:00.000-07:00

"I was drinking 6 - 12 soda's a day when I was killing myself:) As far as I know there's no medical benefit from drinking soda's. The artificial sweeteners in the diet soda's can have you craving more sugar. Thus negatively affecting any nutrition plan you may have." - Keith

Avoid Saturated Fats

2010-05-06T16:06:00.000-07:00

"Saturated fats are the biggest cause of high LDL “bad cholesterol” levels. Read labels, pay close attention to the percentage of saturated fat and avoid or limit any foods that are high. Saturated fats are found in animal products such as butter, cheese, whole milk, ice cream, cream, and fatty meats. They are also found in SOME vegetable oils -- coconut, palm, and palm kernel oils." - Keith

Tough Odds

2010-05-04T16:49:00.000-07:00

“It’s estimated that only 10% of the population will not develop risk factors for heart disease. This is one time I really wish I wasn’t following the crowd.” - Keith

It Should Be Said

2010-05-03T17:16:00.000-07:00

“Think of the ones you love. If you were to see them just one more time, what would you say to them? Say it the next time you talk to them.” - Keith

Heart Healthy Hydration

2010-05-02T17:03:00.000-07:00

“Studies have shown a strong connection between water intake and our heart health. Letting the body get dehydrated could be as hard on the heart as not getting enough exercise, eating poorly, and smoking. Plain water absorbs quickly in the bloodstream which can help naturally thin the blood which helps to prevent artery-clogging clots.” - Keith

A New Day and Month

2010-05-01T01:02:00.000-07:00

“Another opportunity for a Heart Healthy month is here. Did you accomplish your goals last month? We start with a clean slate today. Challenge yourself to improve your heart health this month. Make the commitment today.” - Keith

High-Fructose-Corn-Syrup-vs-Sugar

2010-04-28T18:09:00.000-07:00

High-fructose-corn-syrup-vs-sugar
This is a safe link to AOL and the article.

Laugh for a Healthier Heart

2010-04-28T16:32:00.000-07:00

A good laugh can send 20% more blood flowing through your entire body. When you laugh, your blood vessels expand and contract. When you watch a funny movie for example, your blood flow increases. Laughter’s a great stress reliever too. Laugh often and help your heart.

I’LL START TOMORROW

2010-04-27T15:41:00.000-07:00

I’LL START TOMORROW

By Mike Epstein

“I’ll start tomorrow”

“I think I’ll wait until Monday”

“I have a big event coming up next week. I think I’ll wait until after that”

“I hurt myself. I can’t do any exercise. I’ll wait until I’m better”

“I’m going to eat anything and everything tonight. I’m starting my diet tomorrow”

“Can’t eat anything tonight. I’m getting weighed tomorrow”

“I’d rather have a table than a booth”

“Wow, I don’t remember these booths being so tight”

“Oh jeez, the chairs have armrests. Do they all have armrests?”

“I don’t want to go to that restaurant. All the chairs have armrests.”

“Can I have a seat belt extender?”

“Can I have an aisle seat?”

“Can I have a seat in the emergency exit row?”

“What do you mean you booked me in a middle seat?”

“What do you mean I have to buy another seat on this airplane?”

“You want to weigh me? I don’t think so. . You have to have the extra 100lb piece you hang on between the 150lb and 200lb slots. I know because I have this scale at home”

“I’ll just pick a little something up on the way home to hold me over until dinner”

“You have to be kidding me. I won’t fit in that rental car. You’ll need the jaws of life to get me out”

“No thank you. I never eat dessert”

“Can I have skim milk with my coffee?”

“How can you be so big? I never see you eat”

“You really look hot. You’re sweating. Take off your shirt. Jump in. The water is great. “

“Different manufacturers make their clothes smaller. It’s really a 3X”

“We only make sizes up to 2X. Sorry.”

“No one over 300lbs can ride this ride”

“Sorry sir, if you can’t put the bar all of the way down, you’ll have to exit the ride”

“Daddy can’t do that, his leg hurts”

“Daddy can’t do that, his back hurts”

“Daddy can’t do that, he’s too fat”

“I was stuck in the seat, when I got up, the chair got up with me.”

“We’ll have to special order that for your size”

“Should you be eating so many carbs?”

“You used to be really handsome”

“I didn’t even recognize you”

“Man, did you get fat”

“I’m just big boned”

“I’ve got a lot of muscle underneath. It’s just an overcoat”

“Do you need help getting up?”
”You move pretty good for a big guy”

“ 2 egg McMuffins, 2 bottles of water ”

“Aren’t you embarrassed by the way you look?

”You can’t feel good about yourself”
”Don’t you want to be around for your kids?”

“I’ll start tomorrow”

“Today is the first day of the rest of my life! It is tomorrow! ”

Healthy Heart

2010-04-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

“Think Heart Health everyday this week. To me, everyday is Heart Health Day. What WILL you do this week that will improve your Heart Health?” - Keith

American Heart Association Heart Ball

2010-04-24T23:49:00.000-07:00

I had a great time at the American Heart Association Heart Ball. I met some incredible people and the generosity of the donors was an eye opener. I am so thankful for the invitation by the AHA.

American Heart Association Heart Ball

2010-04-22T20:05:00.000-07:00

I’ll be dressing like a Penguin. The 20^th Annual American Heart Association Heart Ball is Saturday Night at the Ritz Carlton. I was invited to be a guest of The American Heart Association. What an honor.

Extend Your Shelf Life

2010-04-22T15:53:00.000-07:00

“Our bodies don’t have expiration dates. We can, however, greatly extend our “Shelf Life” and “Best If Used By” dates by eating Heart Healthy and making Fitness a priority.” - Keith

Try It, You May Like It

2010-04-20T15:29:00.000-07:00

“When you go to the store, buy 2 new vegetables or fruits that you don’t normally eat, but have wanted to try. Think outside the box. By adding a couple of foods to your heart healthy eating plan you’ll feel like you’re getting something instead of having something taken away.” - Keith

New Website Is Up

2010-04-19T16:38:00.000-07:00

The new website is and replaces the old one. Please visit New website is up:) www.OutrunningMyShadow.com

Allergy Warning?

2010-04-18T16:29:00.000-07:00

“I found out that I actually didn’t lose over 200 pounds. I realized I had an allergenic reaction to fast food. It lasted for 23 years. As soon as I stopped eating fast foods the swelling went down and I started to feel great. Do you have the same allergy?” - Keith

"Start Your Heart"

2010-04-15T17:05:00.000-07:00

“It’s recommended that we get at least 30 to 60 minutes of moderately intense physical activity most days of the week. If 30 minutes seem too much it’s OK. Just start somewhere. Our heart benefits from any type of activity and duration. Don't give up. You can even break up your workout time into 5 or 10-minute sessions and still get benefits. Remember that gardening, housekeeping, taking the stairs and walking the dog count toward your total. You don't have to exercise strenuously to achieve benefits, but you’ll see bigger benefits by increasing the intensity, duration and frequency of your workouts.” - Keith