Ken Gray, a 60-year-old from Naperville, experienced a life-threatening 95% blockage of the widow-maker artery. Despite this, he went on to become a national champion in obstacle course racing. Northwestern Medicine cardiologists assert that vigorous physical activity after a cardiac event is feasible with certain precautions.
Gray, a psychology professor at College of DuPage, utilized his training to manage anxiety following surgery to open the blockage and place a stent in his left anterior descending artery (LAD). He was determined to continue running obstacle courses.
“I was 52 years old and felt good after my procedure,” said Gray. “I had only recently discovered this great sport that combined running, swinging, and hanging. I felt like a kid on a playground again.”
Initially disheartened by his doctor's advice against racing, Gray sought out Dr. R. Kannan Mutharasan, a sports cardiologist and medical director at Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Palos Hospital.
“Exercise is good for the heart, so we do want people to get back to activity,” said Dr. Mutharasan. “However, there is an increased risk for those who have had a heart procedure or a heart attack. It’s important for open and honest communication between the patient and doctor to clearly understand the risks and benefits.”
Dr. Mutharasan provided Gray with a workout plan designed to gradually restore his previous level of activity and performance.
“I tell patients this isn’t a sprint; it is a marathon,” said Dr. Mutharasan. “We gradually build in more activity over one to two years while closely monitoring the patient. It’s important for the patient to have a clear understanding of what is happening with their body.”
Gray followed this advice meticulously, using a heart rate monitor that alarms if his heart rate gets too high and adhering strictly to medical guidance.
Less than a year after his cardiac procedure, Gray ran a 5K race.
“I didn’t go fully all-out, but I felt very solid and I knew I was on my way back up,” said Gray.
“It was the worst day of my life hearing that I would never race again. I thought a very important part of my life was closed off to me. It was amazing to compete again.”
Gray continued improving in obstacle courses, winning first place for the Male 60+ group at the 2023 OCR World Championships last October.
“I think I can get even better at obstacle course racing," said Gray. "I have a few ideas for this year to go faster."
He runs about 25 miles weekly and engages in obstacle course work and strength training three times per week at Hartfit HYBRID & OcRx gym in Plainfield.
“There is some danger in an ‘all-out’ sprint," cautioned Dr. Mutharasan. "Seeing Ken’s track record, as long as he continues to listen to medical advice, take his medications and undergo periodic testing, he can continue competing as long as it feels right."
“Ken is inspirational," added Dr. Mutharasan. "Competition and fitness are such big parts of his personality; it is wonderful to see him find the right balance to pursue his passion.”
