I had a Type A aortic dissection on June 28, 2015, at age 50. I underwent emergency open-heart surgery where they replaced my ascending aorta and part of the arch with a Dacron graft. Like you, I had been very active before the event, so the shift in physical expectations was tough to absorb.

After surgery, I was told to avoid any activity that causes strain or Valsalva-like pressure—no heavy lifting, no breath-holding while exerting, and no deep twists or isometric strain. No deadlifts, no planking, etc. The weight restriction I was given was 30 pounds max, indefinitely. But more important than the number was the how—slow, deliberate movement, exhaling during effort, and always listening to my body. I was also strongly advised to keep blood pressure under tight control, especially during activity. I am still very active. I have built several decks on my house, throw with the dogs, and go up and down lots of stairs in my house where I office all day. I do NOT snowblow or shovel (my uncle died of an aortic dissection at 67 snowblowing in LI, NY in March).

Being a lifelong weightlifter, I imagine you're recalibrating everything now. It's hard, but knowing about the risk means we get to live smarter and longer. Feel free to ask anything about recovery or how I’ve adapted. Here's how I try to pay it forward: Volunteering to check people in to the Red Cross Blood Drive every 2 months. Peace.