After several rounds of tests at the heart Dr's orders, echocardiogram and doppler on my carotid (sp) arteries and a stress test today it looks like I am going to make it after all. I have some blockage in the carotid arteries and blood pressure is high. No salt when cooking and no salt but on food after it is served, have to buy blood pressure monitor and take it twice a day and go back in 4 months.