The podcast I Am You is hosted by Dr. Nitza Alvarez, a board-certified cardiologist and bestselling author. Each episode is designed to empower women to take control of their well-being and become the CEO of their own health.

In this episode, Dr. Alvarez speaks with Julie Modercin, a long-time patient whose journey from caregiver to cardiac patient reveals the often-overlooked dangers women face when they downplay their symptoms. Julie’s story begins as she accompanies her husband—himself a heart attack survivor under Dr. Alvarez’s care—and evolves into a personal journey of self-advocacy and medical vigilance.

Julie opens up about her repeated experiences with pulmonary embolisms, a potentially fatal condition she initially dismissed as leg cramps or fatigue. Through honest reflection, she recounts how her role as a busy professional, wife, and mother led her to ignore symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath—not once, but multiple times. Even when pain struck during a trip to buy lamps, she resisted going to the hospital. Her husband insisted, and it likely saved her life.

Julie’s episode is a heartfelt reminder that chest pain and shortness of breath aren’t always signs of a heart attack—but they’re always signs to get checked. She highlights the importance of building a trustworthy healthcare team, asking questions, and making time for preventive care—even when life feels too full to stop.

This episode underscores a crucial truth: women must not delay care or deprioritize their health for the sake of others. Julie’s story is a powerful call to action to listen to your body, advocate for yourself, and unapologetically become the CEO of your own health.