Speaking of Blood Clots | Awareness, Advocacy & Lifestyle Education for Women

1,220,000

Estimated number of blood clots (DVT, PE AND VTE) in the United States, annually. 1

Up to 50%

Percentage of a FIRST VTE considered unprovoked. 2

12%

FOUR lifestyle areas (obesity, Western diet, sedentary lifestyle and smoking) have been linked to a reduction in unprovoked VTE. 3

Lifestyle is an underutilized tool

"Why is lifestyle so often overlooked when it comes to blood clots? It's time to change that.

Speaking of Blood Clots is about empowering women with the knowledge to understand how lifestyle choices can truly make a difference in prevention, recovery, and creating a path forward to a healthier life.

It's about strength in community, sharing experiences, knowledge, and encouragement as we navigate blood clots, mid-life (hello, menopause!), and beyond."

~ Val Conley, Blood Clot Survivor and Founder of Speaking of Blood Clots

Main Content

Lifestyle and Blood Clots | What Science Tells Us

Join the Blood Clot Conversation on YouTube

Reduce Your Blood Clot Risk: 6 Key Lifestyle Areas for Women

Plant Based Tofu Bowl

Eat
Woman Lifting a Barbell

Move
Alarm Clock

Rest
Post It Notes on Computer Monitor

Manage
Group of Women Connected in Conversation

Connect
Planning Blood Clot Recovery and Life After Blood Clots

Plan

Hi. I'm Val.

I almost died in 2016 from a massive saddle pulmonary embolism, with right ventricular heart failure—it was terrifying.

My blood clot was labeled 'unprovoked,' (no apparent cause.)

But honestly, I think "unprovoked" often just means we haven't dug deep enough and connected all the dots.

Dots like obesity, diet, not moving enough, stress, even sleep—they all play such a huge role in reducing blood clot risks.

But these lifestyle factors aren't just about blood clots. They're the foundation of women's health and wellness.

But during my recovery, I felt like there was a missed opportunity to discuss how lifestyle could support my healing and minimize future risks, not just for blood clots, but for my overall health as a woman navigating a complicated healthcare systems as a blood clot survivor.

Then, I had another PE, and it just clicked:

Women need a solid starting point for understanding how lifestyle impacts blood clots risks and their broader health.

That's the whole reason I started Speaking of Blood Clots - to close those communication gaps and help women become true partners in their own health.

I'm so glad you found me here. I'm truly passionate about this work, and I'm looking forward to connecting with you and supporting you on your journey to better health.

Val Conley