Today in Lake Norman – Wednesday – September 17, 2025
- Uncategorized
You could interpret this heading as several things. Scanned at the airport, scanned to get into your office building and certainly many others. Today, we’re talking about having your body scanned, specifically your heart and surrounding circulatory system. Heart disease and stroke are at the top of the list of issues that plague men in the U.S. Today, I ‘got in the tube’ to make sure my plumbing is intact! I’ll take you through the process and encourage you all to do the same.
What is it exactly?
I had heard of this test several years back. As someone with chronic high cholesterol, I took medication for years for my ‘high numbers.’ The meds didn’t help, so my PCP (Primary Care Physician) had the foresight to order this test. This MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is used for a multitude of tests to look beyond the surface and dive deep into your body without having to open you up with surgery. Having the visibility inside your body to look at your organs, bones and overall condition of your internals, has probably saved countless lives.
Today was my turn, again.
It started early at a local Imaging Center here in town. This is NOT a covered procedure with my insurance but it’s only $100. Well worth it in my opinion. Having that peace of mind and being sure that my heart is in good shape makes this a ‘no brainer’ for me.
When you arrive, there are the obligatory forms to fill out. Most of them are standard health and contact questions. After I place my signature on them all, my name immediately gets called. I exchange pleasantries with the technician as she walks me down the hall to a large room with a massive MRI machine. She guides me to the platform where I will lie down for the scan. I’m not nervous, I’ve done this before. It’s not a full tube like in the old days. It’s more of a donut that the bed slides through. Making this a much easier experience than that of the old claustrophobic versions.
She attaches a few contacts to my chest and neck and tells me to relax. Already there! I’m looking forward to 15-20 minutes of peace and quiet. But alas, after a few deep breaths, a few beeps and we’re done. Just like that, they have a 3D image of my heart and the surrounding arteries. Success, but frankly I could have used a little more rest…
“We’re done already?” “Yes sir, we got what we needed.” And just like that, I’m walking back to the waiting room where I gather a few last-minute forms. In and out in less than 20 minutes. When was the last time you could say that about an office visit?
So now we wait. I’m not really concerned since my last one 5 years ago was squeaky clean. No blockages or areas of concern. I expect a similar report this time.
As a 50, almost 60-year-old man, I have seen too many friends and relatives deal with heart issues, heart attacks and unfortunately strokes. My goal is to educate you all and hope you will heed my advice. GET SCANNED. It’s simple, easy, painless and incredibly affordable. This investment in your health is paramount.
How do I get my scan done?
Reach out to your doctor. I’m sure they have ordered these for many other patients. By the way, this isn’t just for men, women should consider this too. While heart issue may plague men more often, women are not immune. Knowledge is power. Having this information can not only avoid a catastrophe but it may answer some other health related issues you are experiencing. Your circulatory system may just be the most important system in your body. Take care of it. Call a brother and tell him this story. Get him to go as well. There’s no reason not to! If we can get ahead of chronic health issues early, I promise we’ll all live better, healthier and happier!
Take care of yourselves and your brotherhood!
Colin Furcht- Candidate for Cornelius Town Commissioner – BRO Beard Products CEO
Colin has been a long time Lake Norman resident and has been very active in the community. From Commissioner to founding the Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade to a featured Author and small business owner! His desire is to bring men together and encourage them to reach out. He has always said, ‘look out for yourselves and each other.’ All men need a Brotherhood.
Commissioner Page – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070548936173
