Listen "How My PFO Changed the Way I Live My Life"
Episode Synopsis
►► Download FREE Guide → How I lost 2 lbs a week as an athlete with asthma: https://www.athletewithasthma.com/healthy-living-guide
When I lost vision in my right eye during a workout, I had no idea it would lead to discovering a hole in my heart — a PFO (patent foramen ovale). This diagnosis changed my life forever.
In this episode of the Athlete with Asthma Show, I share how my PFO and CRVO diagnosis forced me to rethink everything: how I train, rest, eat, and live. From tracking my heart health and wearing a smartwatch for safety, to eliminating alcohol and managing stress — these habits became my foundation for peak performance and longevity.
If you’ve ever been told your body has limits, this story is proof that you can overcome them. I went from nearly losing my ability to run to winning a 100K ultra and feeling stronger than ever — physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Watch to learn:
How discovering a hole in my heart reshaped my training and mindset
The daily health markers I track to stay safe and perform at my best
Why quitting alcohol has become my biggest health cheat code - How rest and stress management protect your cardiovascular health
Why I’m more motivated than ever to serve athletes like you
🔗 Resources I Mention/Use in This Video:
Buy the Lightboard I Use for My Videos: https://elearningpartners.com/lightboard
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome to the Athlete with Asthma Show 00:51 Losing vision during a workout and finding answers 02:38 What is a PFO, and how common is it? 04:38 How I manage my health and training with a hole in my heart 08:07 The lifestyle changes that transformed my recovery and performance 10:25 Finding purpose, resilience, and the drive to serve others
▶️ Other Helpful Episodes:
I Drank for the First Time in 14 Months — Here’s Exactly What Happened: https://www.athletewithasthma.com/podcasts/athlete-with-asthma-show/episodes/2149094239
I'm Jonny Havey, the Athlete with Asthma, and I help people with (and without) asthma overcome their perceived limitations and achieve elite health and performance, without relying on quick fixes, crash diets, or constant inhaler use.
Here’s how I can help you:
Want 1-on-1 coaching or support? → Reach out here and let’s work together: https://www.athletewithasthma.com/contact
Ready to lose weight sustainably and keep it off for good? → Drop 30 and Keep It Off™: https://www.athletewithasthma.com/drop-30-and-keep-it-off
Start transforming your health in minutes → FREE Healthy Living Guide: https://www.athletewithasthma.com/healthy-living-guide
Learn more and get free resources at: https://www.athletewithasthma.com
DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS MY OPINION AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER. PLEASE CONSULT A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE.
More episodes of the podcast Athlete with Asthma Show
Why I Don’t Train Like Most Runners
31/10/2025
How to Build Endurance When You Have Asthma
12/09/2025
How to Turn Asthma into Your Superpower
15/08/2025
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