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FINDING STRENGTH IN ADVERSITY: LAQUITA LLOYD’S PATH TO MANAGING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
By Ava Salina
Laquita Lloyd’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of self-advocacy and the strength that comes from faith. As a corporate professional, wife and mother, Laquita balances the demands of daily life while managing a chronic condition that has shaped her entire health journey: atrial fibrillation (AFib), a heart condition that causes an irregular and rapid heartbeat in the upper chambers of the heart. Diagnosed with a hole in her heart as a child, Laquita has faced health challenges from an early age, but her story is one of overcoming adversity, living with purpose and inspiring others along the way.
Born with a congenital heart condition, Laquita underwent surgery at just four years old to address a malfunctioning mitral valve. “I learned early that taking care of my health was no joke,” she said. However, it wasn’t until 2019, at the age of 44, that Laquita was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. The diagnosis was a new chapter in her ongoing health journey, one that required even greater vigilance and lifestyle adjustments.
For Laquita, AFib has become more than just a medical condition. It has shaped her perspective on health, reminding her to live with purpose, mindfulness and gratitude. “AFib is a balancing act that touches nearly every area of life,” she said. “But it has also made me stronger. It has taught me to advocate for my health, listen to my body and embrace each day with a grateful heart.”
A NEW CHAPTER: MANAGING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION WITH MINDFULNESS
When Laquita was first diagnosed with AFib, she struggled with anxiety, constantly monitoring her heart rate and becoming hyper-aware of every irregularity. “It was an adjustment period, one that taught me how to manage my health without letting it consume me,” she said. The constant tracking, while reassuring in some ways, only intensified her concerns. But over time, Laquita found a way to turn this anxiety into a source of empowerment.
For Laquita, the foundation of managing AFib has been a shift in perspective. Her faith became a central pillar in helping her overcome fear and uncertainty.
“Each day is a blessing,” she said, emphasizing how her spirituality anchors her through the ups and downs of living with a chronic condition. Beyond faith, Laquita also embraces a proactive approach to managing her health, one that includes careful attention to her diet, exercise and stress management.
TAKING CONTROL: LIFESTYLE ADJUSTMENTS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Living with AFib requires a delicate balance of lifestyle choices, and Laquita has learned to make every decision count.
“I focus on eating heart-healthy foods—lots of vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats,” she said. She has also learned to avoid known triggers like excess caffeine, alcohol and high-sodium foods. “I miss my Stella Rose,” she said with a smile, reflecting on the small sacrifices that come with managing her health.
Hydration is another crucial element of Laquita’s routine. She makes sure to drink plenty of water to support heart function, while being mindful of her caffeine intake. In addition to dietary adjustments, managing stress is key. “Stress directly impacts heart rhythm, so I use mindfulness techniques and deep breathing exercises to stay centered,” Laquita said. Physical activity is another essential part of her strategy, with daily walks serving as both a way to stay active and reduce stress. “I aim for at least 10,000 steps a day, walking around the Lake Murray Dam five times a week. It’s light, but it works.”
Quality sleep is also nonnegotiable for Laquita. She prioritizes seven to eight hours of restful sleep each night, ensuring that her sleep schedule is consistent and free from electronic distractions. “This consistency helps regulate my heart rhythm,” she said.
Navigating Medication And Medical Care
While Laquita prefers managing her condition through lifestyle changes, she is open to using medication when necessary. To manage her AFib, she takes four medications: Eliquis to reduce the risk of blood clots, Tikosyn to regulate her heart rhythm, Losartan to control blood pressure and Farxiga to support heart function. “These medications are an essential part of my comprehensive treatment plan,” she said. “I work closely with my healthcare providers to ensure the dosages are tailored to my needs, and I never hesitate to ask questions if something doesn’t feel right.”
Laquita’s approach to her care is all about partnership. “I’m not afraid to challenge my doctors or ask for clarity. I want to be fully informed,” she said. This selfadvocacy has been a cornerstone of her health journey, allowing her to feel in control even in the face of uncertainty.
ADVICE FOR OTHERS: EMBRACE YOUR JOURNEY
Having walked this path, Laquita has advice for anyone newly diagnosed with AFib. “First, stick to your medication regimen like it’s your own personal life anthem,” she encourages. “Each pill and each healthy choice is a little prayer for your future health.” She also emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy. “Speak up about your concerns, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You deserve to understand what’s happening with your body.”
Equally important, Laquita suggests embracing faith. “Turn those scary moments into times of gratitude. Each beat of your heart is a reminder of the fragility— and the strength—of life,” she reflects. “And lastly, remember that this is a journey. Every day is an opportunity to do something good for yourself.”
While AFib can be a constant challenge, it has also become a source of personal growth and resilience. “Living with AFib has shown me the power of being proactive, quirky and fully engaged in my own journey,” Laquita said. If her story can inspire even one person to take charge of their health and live with intention, then she considers it all worthwhile.
For anyone facing a similar journey, Laquita’s message is clear,” You have the power to live fully, no matter the challenges.”
