In 2001, without warning, I was struck with a life altering chronic illness: cardiomyopathy. This refers to a permanent enlarged and weakened heart muscle, and there is no cure for this disease. And yet 5 years later, in spite of this unfortunate event, I was able to return to college, enjoy the birth of my 3 grandchildren, and become an accomplished photographer. I did this because I decided back then, to take control of my life. I wasn