Home / News / Coping With Blood Clots – Pat Koppa, DVT Survivor, Part One

Coping With Blood Clots – Pat Koppa, DVT Survivor, Part One

Coping With Blood Clots – Pat Koppa, DVT Survivor, Part One

September 15, 2013

Pat Koppa discusses her personal story with DVT.

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Advancing blood clot awareness, prevention, diagnosis, and successful treatments to #stoptheclot.

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️ Season 2, Epis

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️

Season 2, Episode 8 of Taking a Breath: A Stop the Clot podcast is now available on all major podcast platforms.

In this episode, listeners hear from Aaliyah Walker and her husband Brady Arnold, parents of three from the Washington, DC area.

Last September, immediately after giving birth to twin girls via C-section, Aaliyah told Brady: “I can’t breathe.”

She had blood clots in her lungs and heart and fought for her life in the hospital for nearly a month. After her recovery, she posted a TikTok video of her story that went viral, spreading blood clot awareness to more than one million people.

Aaliyah also participated with NBCA on Capitol Hill last month to urge federal backing for blood clot awareness and education, highlighting that Black women experience elevated rates of maternal mortality due to blood clots during pregnancy and within three months postpartum.

Thank you, Aaliyah and Brady, for sharing your story during Black Maternal Health Month and all you continue to do to spread awareness for the entire blood clot community.

Listen at the 🔗in bio or wherever you get your podcasts.

@authentically.aaliyah #StopTheClot #BloodClots #PE #PulmonaryEmbolism #BlackMaternalHealthWeek #BMHM2025 #TakingABreath #BloodClotPodcast #BloodClotSurvivorStory #Childbirth #Csection #BloodClotAwareness

After a DVT at 29 and a second clot with a pulmona

After a DVT at 29 and a second clot with a pulmonary embolism years later, Brandon was diagnosed with a genetic clotting condition requiring lifelong blood thinners. Now 37, he’s focused on staying healthy, managing anxiety, and embracing life with greater presence and gratitude.

Swipe through to read Brandon's story and view video version at the link in bio.

If you've experienced a blood clot, did it change your outlook on life?

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #VTE #DVT #PE #SafeTravel #HealthyTravel #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotSurvivor #Prothrombin2 #GeneticClottingDisorder #Thrombophilia @brandonrkh

♀️ In recognition of Women’s Health Month, w

♀️ In recognition of Women’s Health Month, we’re unpacking the blood clot risks that women face throughout their lives during our next PEP Talk on Tuesday, May 13 at 7 p.m.

Women not only have certain risk factors, they also experience unpleasant side-effects of anticoagulants that may include heavy menstrual bleeding.

But as Dr. Anna Parks, hematologist at the University of Utah and member of NBCA’s Council of Emerging Researchers in Thrombosis (CERT), explains in this clip from a previous PEP Talk, heavy bleeding on blood thinners can be remedied.

Other topics will include contraceptive choices; medical gaslighting of women in healthcare settings; managing mental health after diagnosis; whether hormone replacement therapy is safe for individuals with a history of blood clots, and much more.

In today’s environment, where women’s health rights are under increased scrutiny, it’s crucial that we all understand how to protect ourselves and make empowered decisions about our health.

We hope you’ll join us! Register: bit.ly/May2025PEPTalk (🔗 in bio)

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #peptalk #bloodcloteducation #bloodclotawareness #womenandbloodclots #pregnancy #birthcontrol #estrogen #menopause #bloodclotprevention #womenshealthmonth #peptalk #VTE #PE #DVT #thrombosis #postpartum

For Black Maternal Health Week (April 11–17), we

For Black Maternal Health Week (April 11–17), we’re honored to share Jennifer’s story of survival.

After giving birth via C-section, Jennifer faced life-threatening complications—including a severe infection and a pulmonary embolism. More than a decade later, a second blood clot after knee surgery tested her strength once again.

Black women face a higher risk of maternal complications, including blood clots—one of the leading causes of maternal death in the U.S.

Jennifer’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the urgent need to address inequities in maternal health.

🔗 Learn more about Black Maternal Health Week at the link in bio.

@blackmamasmatter #StopTheClot #BloodClots #BMHW25 #BlackMamasMatter #BlackMaternalHealthWeek #ReproJustice #BirthJustice #BirthEquity

As we observe Black Maternal Health Week (April 11

As we observe Black Maternal Health Week (April 11–17), a new National Institutes of Health study confirms what many already know: maternal mortality is rising—and Black women continue to be among the hardest hit.

From 2018 to 2022, maternal deaths in the U.S. rose by 27%. Black women remain nearly 3 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes — including blood clots — than white women. And now, the very agencies tasked with saving lives are facing devastating cuts.

Just last week, key CDC staff working on maternal and child health were placed on leave. Funding for critical research—especially in Black communities—has been rescinded. This is happening while maternal deaths are increasing and racial disparities persist.

This is not the time to pull back. It's the time to invest.

Black lives matter. Black mamas matter. Maternal health is public health.

@blackmamasmatter

Read more at the 🔗in bio.

#StopTheClot #BloodClots #BMHW25 #BlackMamasMatter #BlackMaternalHealthWeek #ReproJustice #BirthJustice #BirthEquity #BlackMaternalHealth #CDC

💔Brenda experienced classic symptoms of a DVT a

💔Brenda experienced classic symptoms of a DVT and PE, but no one was able to identify them as being life-threatening. Brenda lost her life to a PE in January at 36 years old. ➡️Swipe through to read her story, which her sister Vanessa is sharing to spread awareness in Brenda's memory.

🔗More stories at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #VTE #DVT #PE #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotFatality #FatalPE

CALLING ALL CYCLISTS — Are you ready to experien

CALLING ALL CYCLISTS — Are you ready to experience the thrill of cycling through all five boroughs of New York City on car-free streets?

TD Five Boro Bike Tour 🚴‍♀️
Sunday, May 4, 2025 📅
Help prevent blood clots 🩸

Ready to ride? Apply now at the link in bio!

#StopTheClot #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClots #VTE #DVT #PE #Thrombosis #BloodClotSurvivor #TDFiveBoroBikeTour #NYCBikeTour #CyclingNYC #BikeNYC #BikeForACause #CharityRide #PreventBloodClots #TeamStopTheClot

During our Capitol Hill Day last month, more than

During our Capitol Hill Day last month, more than 50 blood clot awareness advocates made an impact on Capitol Hill as we urged Congress to designate funding through the CDC’s Division of Blood Disorders and Public Health Genomics for a national blood clot education and awareness campaign, and another 600+ advocates sent in letters to lawmakers urging their support of this funding.

⚠️On April 1, nearly all staffers at the CDC Division of Blood Disorders and Public Health Genomics -- which works with states, patients, providers, and organizations like NBCA to reduce the impact of serious blood disorders, including blood clots -- were placed on administrative leave amid the mass layoffs and restructuring at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), effectively dismantling this critical division.

These cuts threaten vital data collection, research, education, and safety programs that the blood clot community relies on.

📢 The National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA) stands with the American Society of Hematology (ASH) and nearly 100 other organizations in a letter sent to HHS this week calling for the immediate reinstatement of the CDC’s Division of Blood Disorders and Public Health Genomics.

We can’t lose the progress we’ve made!

Read more at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #Fight4Hemtaology #Hematology #BloodClots #BloodClotFunding #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotAwarenessFunding #TakeAction

🎉 We’ve got something to celebrate! 🎉

We’re thrilled to share that, thanks to our collective voices, 6 cities, 17 states — and even the U.S. Senate — officially recognized March 2025 as Blood Clot Awareness Month! This national recognition is a significant step forward in educating the public about the risks, signs, and prevention of blood clots.

A heartfelt thank you to our unstoppable community of advocates who stepped up when we asked them to ‘Do Your Part to Stop the Clot’ in March, making this nationwide recognition possible. Your passion is driving real change and spreading life-saving awareness across the country.

Together, we are a powerful force—each voice, action, and declaration contributing to a future where blood clots are recognized, prevented, and conquered. Our strength lies in unity, and together, we're saving lives.

🔗See how we made an impact from coast to coast at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #BloodClotAwarenessMonth #BCAM #BCAM2025 #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotAwarenessResolution

Thank you to everyone who joined last evening’s

Thank you to everyone who joined last evening’s April PEP Talk on weight, blood clots, and GLP-1 drugs.

In this clip, Dr. Rushad Patell from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, shares insights from his research showing a potential link between GLP-1 medications and reduced blood clot risk.

Catch the full recording—and explore past PEP Talks—at the link in bio.

Mark your calendar: Our next PEP Talk is on May 13 at 7 p.m. and will focus on women and blood clots. Don’t miss it! Register: bit.ly/May2025PEPTalk

(Please note: PEP Talks are for educational purposes only and do not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.)

@bidmchealth #StopTheClot #BloodClots #VTE #PEPTalk #GLP1 #GLP1Community #GLP1WeightLoss #GLP1Journey #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotEducation #BloodClotWebinar

Corena’s journey with blood clots began when her

Corena’s journey with blood clots began when her leg pain during pregnancy was dismissed each time she visited the ER—until a caring PA finally listened to her and found multiple clots. Years later, chest pain revealed clots in both lungs—this time diagnosed promptly. Her story shows that a previous blood clot is a risk factor for future clots, and that self-advocacy and knowing the signs can be lifesaving.

➡️Swipe through to read Corena's story.

🗣️If you experienced a blood clot, what were your initial signs? Tell us in the comments.

🔗Read more stories at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #VTE #DVT #PE #Pregnancy #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotSurvivor #PregnancyComplications #WomensHealth #SelfAdvocacy

HAPPENING TONIGHT: Our April PEP Talk on weight, b

HAPPENING TONIGHT: Our April PEP Talk on weight, blood clots, and GLP-1 medications kicks off this evening at 7 p.m. ET.

As patients, we know how important this topic is. That's why we're excited to have Dr. Rushad Patell, hematologist at @bidmchealth and co-chair of NBCA’s Council of Emerging Researchers in Thrombosis, joining us to share his expertise and research on this critical issue.

We hope you can join us! Learn more and register at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #BloodClots #VTE #PEPTalk #GLP1 #GLP1Community #GLP1WeightLoss #GLP1Journey #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotEducation #BloodClotWebinar

🌍 This World Health Day (April 7), we're proud

🌍 This World Health Day (April 7), we're proud to support the World Health Organization’s campaign, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.”

This year-long initiative is dedicated to improving maternal and newborn health, urging governments and the health community to take stronger action to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths, while prioritizing the long-term health and well-being of women.

Pulmonary embolism—a blood clot in the lung—is one of the leading causes of pregnancy-related death in the U.S. Women are five times more likely to experience a blood clot during pregnancy or in the three months postpartum. That risk jumps dramatically—up to 100-fold—in the first week after childbirth.

👉 Learn more about how to protect yourself and your baby from these dangerous blood clots at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #WorldHealthDay #MaterialHealth #NewbornHealth #KnowYourRisk #BloodClots #PulmonaryEmbolism #BloodClotAwareness #HopefulFutures #HealthForAll

Paul was just 19 when he died suddenly from a pulm

Paul was just 19 when he died suddenly from a pulmonary embolism. His only symptom—shortness of breath—was mistaken for asthma. Now, his family shares Paul’s story to raise awareness and help others recognize the signs. Blood clots can happen to anyone, at any age. Know the symptoms.

Swipe through to read Paul's story.

Read more stories at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #PulmonaryEmbolism #PE Fatality #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClots

Blood clots can be life-changing, but you’re not

Blood clots can be life-changing, but you’re not alone. Our monthly newsletter delivers the latest community and treatment updates, patient-centered research, survivor stories, and expert resources to help you take charge of your health.

Join a growing community of survivors and advocates dedicated to raising awareness and supporting each other. Knowledge is power—subscribe today at the link in bio.

#stoptheclot #newsletter #bloodclotawareness #bloodclotnews #bloodcloteducation #bloodclotpatients #bloodclotsurvivors

Did you know that during an emergency, there is an

Did you know that during an emergency, there is an easy way to communicate that you have a history of blood clots and take blood thinners?

The American College of Emergency Physicians advises people to wear medical ID jewelry if they have experienced blood clots, or if they take blood thinners, which can pose bleeding risks.

Many online sellers offer customizable medical ID bracelets, silicone wristbands and necklaces. The alert should include your major medical conditions, such as a history of pulmonary emboli (PE), medications you’re currently taking, such as an anticoagulant, and the name and phone number of an emergency contact.

Do you wear medical ID jewelry? Show us a photo or tell us in the comments!

#stoptheclot #medicalidbracelet #medicalidband#medicalidband #medicalalertjewelry #bloodclotrecovery #bloodclotsurvivor #anticoagulants #bloodthinners

While on a business trip in a different country, N

While on a business trip in a different country, Nina suddenly felt chest pain, dizziness, and trouble breathing. She was diagnosed with a massive pulmonary embolism.

Her recovery led her to a new purpose—helping bring medicines to patients faster and raising awareness as an NBCA Thrombassador. Her advice is to know the signs and give yourself time to heal.

More stories at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #VTE #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotSurvivor #DVT #International #PE #Thrombassador #Travel #SafeTravel

Age is not just a number—it's a significant risk

Age is not just a number—it's a significant risk factor for blood clots, a risk that escalates exponentially with each passing year.

In a recent interview with @AARP, National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA) Volunteer President Leslie Lake shared her powerful story of survival after a sudden blood clot in her lungs (pulmonary embolism)—a story that highlights the urgent need for awareness, early detection, and advocacy.

“I was coming back from the dry cleaner near my apartment, coming up a little incline that I’d walked thousands of times before,” Leslie recalled. “All of a sudden, I couldn’t breathe. It literally felt as if someone had put their hands around my neck and squeezed all of the oxygen out of my body. I thought I was having a heart attack.”

Leslie’s terrifying journey to diagnosis took hours, and even after she was discharged, she left without any resources or clear direction on how to move forward. This information gap led her to the NBCA.

“I was given a second chance, and so I want to make sure that I can pay that forward,” she said. “I feel privileged to be in a situation now where I’m sitting here today in the hope that I’ll reach somebody and save their life.”

We are deeply grateful to AARP—a nonprofit dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older—for amplifying this critical conversation. Every story shared has the power to save lives.

Learn more at the AARP link in bio and share with anyone you know who could be at risk.

#StoptheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #AARP #BloodClotStory #PulmonaryEmbolismStory #BloodClotSurvivor #BloodClotPatient #BloodClotAwareness @lesliellake

Obesity significantly increases the risk of blood

Obesity significantly increases the risk of blood clots, like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

Our next PEP Talk on Tuesday, April 8, at 7 p.m. ET will explore the connection between body weight and blood clots, and how GLP-1 medications may help lower the risk.

Why is weight a risk factor for blood clots?

➡️ Inflammation: Obesity can lead to ongoing, low-level inflammation, which makes the blood more likely to clot.

➡️ Slower blood flow: Excess weight can put pressure on veins and slow circulation, raising the risk of clots.

➡️ More clotting proteins: People with obesity often have higher levels of proteins that help their blood clot, making clots more likely.

➡️ Metabolic issues: Conditions like type 2 diabetes, common in obesity, can further increase the clot risk.

➡️ Less movement: Limited activity, such as after surgery or long travel, can cause blood to pool in veins, increasing the chance of clots.

👉 Register for our April PEP Talk to learn more: bit.ly/April2025PEPTalk (Link in bio)

#StopTheClot #BloodClots #VTE #PEPTalk #GLP1 #GLP1Community #GLP1WeightLoss #GLP1Journey #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotEducation #BloodClotWebinar #PulmonaryEmbolism #Thrombosis #PE #DVT #KnowYourRisk

Taylor developed leg pain and a fever weeks after

Taylor developed leg pain and a fever weeks after giving birth. Initially diagnosed with sciatica, her symptoms worsened until a medication reaction led her to the ER, where tests revealed blood clots. She’s sharing her story to help others trust their instincts.

Did you ever have to advocate for yourself in a healthcare setting? Tell us about it in the comments.

More stories at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #VTE #DVT #PE #Pregnancy #Postpartum #CSection #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotSurvivor

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