Pawprints on My Heart

When you're different, you stand out. But that doesn't mean you always want to.

By the time I was diagnosed with my heart condition in my late teens, I was already well on my way to reaching my full six-foot frame. Then, I started passing out while playing sports. Soon after, I received my diagnosis, was prescribed a slew of prescription medications, and was told I needed to be extra-careful... or I'd be at real risk for an early death.

I was devastated. Even without the diagnosis, I'd stood out amongst my peers. Now, it looked like there was no semblance of a "normal" life in the cards for me.

I felt helpless. Some days it bordered on hopeless. I could see no light at the end of my tunnel.

Until a dog named Goose came along, and everything began to change.