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Name: Sophie Thatcher

Age: 19

Which SADS condition do you have? Long QT Syndrome

How are you treated? Beta blockers

How were you diagnosed?

In 2018, as a junior in high school, I decided to try out for my school’s water polo team as a completely new sport. On the last day of pre-season, I had my cardiac episode and after months of testing and not being able to participate in any team sports, I was diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in living with your diagnosis?

The hardest part for me at the time was the change in my routine. I had been an athlete my entire life and my heart condition questioned if I could ever be on a team again. Luckily, I was able to play lacrosse in the Spring which is my favorite time of the year.

What is one positive thing that has come out of your diagnosis? 

I think the biggest challenge but also the most positive part, I have learned with my heart condition to listen to my body. It has forced me to take the time everyday and at every workout to listen to how my body is feeling. Before my diagnoses, I had the headspace of go, go, go. Now, It has changed the way I think, in a good way. 

What encouragement or advice would you give someone who has just been diagnosed with your condition?

I think the best advice to give to someone in a similar situation think that everyday is a refresh on the day before. If I am feeling down, than tomorrow is a fresh day. If I felt bad during my workout than tomorrow is a new day. All people can do view this as a day by day situation.