In a candid revelation, Drew Carey shared a life-altering experience that many might not associate with the jovial comedian known for his role on “The Drew Carey Show.” During a recent episode of Ted Danson’s podcast, Carey recounted an alarming episode that unfolded while he was preparing to return to the stage after a summer hiatus in the early 2000s.
Carey, who had struggled with his weight for years, was determined to shed pounds and improve his health. He began jogging but soon experienced alarming symptoms that he later recognized as indicators of a heart attack. “I was really overweight,” Carey explained, reflecting on his misconceptions about heart health. Like many, he believed that a heart attack would manifest dramatically—like a cartoon character clutching their chest and collapsing. In reality, his experience was far more subtle, marked by a rapid heart rate and numbness in his shoulder.
As he jogged through his neighborhood, his heart rate soared to a concerning 160 beats per minute. Despite feeling the classic symptoms—tightness in the chest and overwhelming fatigue—he initially dismissed them. “I thought if you had a heart attack, you would go ‘ugh’ and fall down,” he recalled, highlighting a common misconception that can lead to dangerous delays in seeking medical assistance.
After a brief moment of apprehension, he decided to slow down and walk home. He called his girlfriend to share the unsettling experience, and in a moment that combined humor and denial, he asked for comfort food—specifically, chili spaghetti from Bob’s Big Boy—while promising to visit the doctor in the morning. This incident underscores a broader issue: how individuals often trivialize their health concerns, particularly when they do not fit the dramatic narrative they expect.
The following day, excitement filled the air as Carey arrived at the studio for a special taping. However, the joy of reconnecting with colleagues quickly turned to anxiety when he felt a tightening sensation in his chest once again. Acknowledging the severity of his condition, he retreated to his trailer and made a critical decision: “I think I’m having a heart attack.”
Carey’s instincts proved correct when he was hospitalized overnight, where doctors discovered that he had a nearly 95% blockage in one of his arteries. This revelation was a wake-up call, not only for him but for many who might overlook the subtler signs of heart disease. After a stent was inserted, he faced a grueling recovery process, feeling “weak as a kitten” but determined to change his lifestyle.
The transformation that followed was profound. With guidance from a doctor recommended by his friend Marc Vahanian, Carey began to overhaul his diet, dramatically shifting away from his previous habits. He recounted how meals that once consisted of steak, loaded mashed potatoes, and dessert transformed into healthier options filled with vegetables and salads. “I don’t even drink alcohol at all anymore. It’s wild,” he noted, emphasizing the significant lifestyle changes he embraced post-recovery.
Carey’s journey highlights the importance of understanding heart health, particularly for those who may not fit the stereotypical image of someone at risk. As recent studies emphasize, heart disease can present itself in many forms, and recognizing the subtle signs is crucial for timely intervention. According to the American Heart Association, many individuals experience atypical symptoms, especially women, underscoring the necessity for everyone to educate themselves about heart health.
Today, as Carey reflects on his past, he recognizes the stark contrast between his former self and the health-conscious individual he has become. His journey serves not only as a personal testament to resilience but also as a critical reminder for others: never underestimate the body’s signals and always prioritize heart health.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research
