from the PacMasters Update Email
Ross Shoemaker, RIP
1942-2007
Ross Shoemaker died suddenly at the Senior Games following one of his swims. Ross had collapsed on the deck, and was not able to be revived. It is a terrible loss - Ross was a longtime member of the San Mateo Marlins, a warm and supportive man, and a devoted swimmer with an encouraging word for everyone.
Ross coached at Chabot Junior College for many years. Services are pending.
I don't think I need to point out the frequncy with which these unfortunate events have been occuring recently. Should active swimmers be getting stress echos or something as they get older? Are simple BP and lipid screens simply not enough?
Parents
Former Member
It is true that there is no crystal ball when it comes to sudden death. However, there are things that all of us can do. Obviously, check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Don't smoke. Be consistent with regard to physical activity.
The vast majority of us under the age of 50 who don't have obvious risk factors or symptoms will be fine.
Once we get past that threshold, I think it is reasonable to get more information. In particular, you should ask your provider what your Framingham risk is. If they can't tell you, they can find it by doing a google search. If your risk by the Framingham score is less than 10%, don't sweat it. Most of us will have a low risk (i.e., less than 10%).
It is true that there is no crystal ball when it comes to sudden death. However, there are things that all of us can do. Obviously, check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Don't smoke. Be consistent with regard to physical activity.
The vast majority of us under the age of 50 who don't have obvious risk factors or symptoms will be fine.
Once we get past that threshold, I think it is reasonable to get more information. In particular, you should ask your provider what your Framingham risk is. If they can't tell you, they can find it by doing a google search. If your risk by the Framingham score is less than 10%, don't sweat it. Most of us will have a low risk (i.e., less than 10%).
