Show-Me State Times

Geri Lynn Arrindell, a 52-year-old attorney from University City, reached a significant personal milestone by completing her 100th half-marathon. Her journey was not without obstacles. In October 2020, she faced a hypertensive emergency that endangered her health, leading to hospitalization and severe health challenges, including short-term memory loss, diabetes, and physical disability. With medical support from Dr. Mustafa Husaini, a sports cardiologist at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, she embarked on a recovery plan tailored for athletes.

Arrindell started running half-marathons after losing her parents, completing her first race in Louisiana in March 2012. Despite facing an irregular heartbeat and undergoing cardiac ablation surgery in law school, she pursued running to overcome grief. Her determination led her to run half-marathons in each of the 50 states.

Her health detriment in 2020 paused her ambitions. After receiving treatment at the Washington University and Barnes-Jewish Heart & Vascular Center, Arrindell resumed her running pursuits under a personalized treatment plan. According to Arrindell, “Dr. Husaini evaluated my stress tests, monitored my blood pressure, provided heart assessments and a personalized treatment plan, and ensured my heart was strong enough to return to running.”

“He took a genuine interest in me as a patient, always asking about my life and showing that he genuinely cares,” Arrindell remarked about Dr. Husaini. This support allowed her to complete the remaining states on her goal list. Completing her 100th race in Louisiana, where she began, Arrindell symbolizes perseverance and resilience.

Now looking toward the future, Arrindell focuses on integrating strength training and nutrition into her routine. She is guided by her experience and medical support, demonstrating that health management can lead not only to recovery but also to achieving personal goals.

To learn more about the sports cardiology program at the Washington University and Barnes-Jewish Heart & Vascular Center or to make an appointment, call 314-362-1291.