Nationwide — Grammy Award-winning singer Toni Braxton has revealed that she is lucky to be alive seven months after undergoing emergency heart surgery for a blocked coronary artery. Braxton, who has been transparent in her battle with lupus, shared that she had fallen behind in her regimented precautionary care, which includes regular urine and blood tests. She was also experiencing chest pain, which she initially dismissed. However, after realizing the severity of her condition, she sought medical treatment.
Braxton revealed to People magazine that it was a traumatic moment for her, and she was in shock. She thought her chest pain was due to the sadness of her sister’s passing, but it turned out to be an underlying health issue. Braxton’s doctors said that she was “touch and go” for a bit after the procedure.
The heart attack, known as a widowmaker, is caused by a full blockage in the heart’s biggest artery, the left anterior descending (LAD) artery, which sends oxygen-rich blood to the heart’s left ventricle, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Braxton considers the experience a blessing in disguise, reinforcing the importance of regular screenings, which she now undergoes every three months. She shared that even if all she has to do for her lupus and kidney health is pee in a cup or get her arm pricked for some blood, she will not put off tests. She believes that knowing is empowering and gets her doctors on top of her lupus and kidney health, which is the most important thing.
Braxton acknowledges that not every day is perfect and that she has good and bad days. She hopes to have a long life and old age and has learned to listen to her body. On bad days, she takes it down and relaxes, knowing that she is not superwoman but a human who must listen to her body.
Follow her on Instagram @ToniBraxton
