New dimensions

Michigan woman tells inspiring heart transplant story in new book

Kristy Sidlar was flying high in life, working as a popular young professional and fitness instructor. But, after collapsing during an aerobics class, everything changed. After a long series of tests and continued incidents, Sidlar found out she would eventually need a new heart.

“The doctors said it was going to get worse over time, and the more you exercise, the worse it will get,” says the longtime Troy resident. “Try telling someone very active that you can basically just walk and do some yoga! So, I had to make adjustments. But, I knew that over time, I would need to get a heart transplant.”

The opportunity for a new heart came in 2020, just in time. Sidlar says what got her through it was her strong social network of friends and family, as well as emotional wellness.

“I put together this Wellness Widget,

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KRISTY SIDLAR Troy resident Kristy Sidlar’s life was turned upside-down after collapsing during an aerobics class and discovering she had heart failure.

The opportunity for Sidlar’s heart transplant came in 2020at Henry Ford Hospital.