Heart attack survivor lives each moment to the fullest

Surviving a heart attack is no small feat. It requires quick thinking, prompt action, and a bit of luck. For Amy Matson, August 1, 2020 was the day her life dramatically changed. It began with a routine lunchtime jog but ended in a way far from normal.

Amy Matson 004 — Amy Matson pauses for a break during hike along White River below Mount Hood.
Courtesy photos: Jay Wintermeyer

Amy Matson pauses for a break during hike along White River below Mount Hood.
Courtesy photos: Jay Wintermeyer

As Amy set out on her usual lunch run, she had no idea her life was in danger. After running about a quarter of a mile, she felt a heavy pressure in her chest, almost like a punch. Amy stopped immediately and tried to shake it off; maybe she was just dehydrated. But when the pain returned twice more as she started running again, she knew something was wrong.

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Amy Matson 001 — Amy Matson enjoys an active life. Here, she shows off a fish caught on Oregon's Rogue River.
Courtesy photo: Amy Matson

Amy Matson enjoys an active life. Here, she shows off a fish caught on Oregon's Rogue River.
Courtesy photo: Amy Matson

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Amy Matson 002 — Amy Matson, a heart attack survivor, is shown participating in the 2022 Heart Walk.
Courtesy photo: Jay Wintermeyer

Amy Matson, a heart attack survivor, is shown participating in the 2022 Heart Walk.
Courtesy photo: Jay Wintermeyer

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Heart attack survivor lives each moment to the fullest

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