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 Sherry Stewart, a 70-year-old woman whose determination to keep working full-time nearly masked a life-threatening condition. Sherry initially attributed her fatigue, back pain, and chest discomfort to stress, age, weight, and even a past car accident. For weeks she sought relief from her chiropractor, convinced her symptoms weren’t serious. But persistent pain between her shoulder blades, rising blood pressure, and an abnormal EKG signaled something more.

What began as denial turned into a journey that led Sherry to Dr. Alvarez’s office—where testing revealed major blockages in her arteries. Left untreated, these blockages could have resulted in a fatal heart attack. Instead, Sherry’s decision to listen, get answers, and accept treatment gave her a new lease on life. Today, she feels “ten years younger” and is grateful for the chance to continue her ministry and passion for serving others.

Sherry’s story is a powerful reminder that women’s heart disease symptoms often present differently than men’s and can easily be mistaken for stress, aging, or weight issues. This conversation underscores the importance of recognizing subtle warning signs, refusing to dismiss discomfort, and advocating for your health until you find real answers.

This episode highlights why every woman must take heart health seriously and become the “CEO of her own health”—leading with awareness, persistence, and proactive care to protect both quality and length of life