A florist and business owner, Shayai experienced a sudden, severe pain between her shoulder blades, nausea, and a strange aversion to food. Initially dismissing it as a minor issue, her symptoms escalated, including heartburn and jawline pain.
With a history of heart conditions, including supraventricular tachycardia and Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, she was rushed to the ER. Doctors quickly administered aspirin and nitroglycerine, and an EKG revealed serious concerns. She was airlifted to a heart hospital.
Upon arrival, doctors confirmed she had suffered a "widowmaker" heart attack - a blockage in a major artery. She underwent emergency angioplasty to insert a stent, saving her life.
Doctors later determined the heart attack was caused by excessive calcium production. This near-death experience prompted Shayai to re-evaluate her life, stepping down from numerous commitments to prioritize her well-being. She now focuses on her business and advocating for heart disease prevention among Native American populations, addressing historical barriers to healthcare and nutrition.
Her community is now incorporating heart-healthy options into traditional feasts and encouraging physical activity, celebrating their heritage while prioritizing health.