Annie Slocum
Annie Slocum shares her blood clot diagnosis as a teen
Annie Slocum is 17-years-old and is already making a mark as a dedicated advocate for blood clot awareness.
Living in Pleasantville, New York, in the United States, Annie’s journey began with a health crisis that she never imagined could happen to someone her age. A competitive athlete since the age of eight, Annie had been a swimmer for most of her life and later took up rowing.
Yet, despite her active lifestyle and strength, an unexpected diagnosis would change her life and lead her to a mission of awareness and advocacy.
The shocking diagnosis
Annie’s first encounter with thrombosis came in eighth grade, during a swim practice. She recalls how her shoulder discomfort, previously labeled “swimmer’s shoulder” by physical therapists, suddenly took a drastic turn.
“Out of nowhere, my arm became very swollen and turned orange,” she said.
Doctors were initially surprised, attributing her symptoms to possible inflammation from physical activities. However, an ultrasound confirmed the unexpected: Annie had a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in her subclavian vein, located near her collarbone and first rib.
The diagnosis of venous thoracic outlet syndrome soon followed, revealing that her blood clot was caused by compression of her subclavian vein—a condition that can develop in athletes who use repetitive overhead motions.
Annie and her family were stunned by the news. She went on to undergo several medical procedures, including two venoplasties to improve blood flow and a resection of her first rib to relieve compression.
A recurrence and renewed strength
In the summer of 2024, Annie faced a second DVT, again in her subclavian vein, while rowing.
“This time, my arm lost feeling and became slightly swollen while I was exercising,” she shared.
Though the recurrence was disheartening, Annie remained resilient. She resumed treatment, including another venoplasty, and continued on blood thinners. Her condition is well-managed today, though the experience has reshaped her understanding of health and personal strength.
Raising awareness through action
Annie’s journey hasn’t just been one of overcoming health challenges—it’s sparked a passion for raising awareness.
“The most surprising aspect of my experience was that I never thought that I would develop a clot as a very healthy teenager. After my experience, I have come to understand how doctors are unaware of the prevalence of thoracic outlet syndrome for teenagers and the syndromes association with blood clots,” she said.
Annie first discovered World Thrombosis Day while doing advocacy work with the National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA), an organization she now actively supports.
She created an initiative called Pots for Clots. It combines her love for plants with her advocacy efforts, offering succulents as a thank-you gift to those who donated a certain amount to the NBCA. This unique fundraising campaign helped her raise more than $8,000, and Annie is now planning a second fundraiser.
Earlier this year, Annie also ran the NYC Half Marathon to honor her journey and to raise funds for the NBCA.
“I hope I can inspire other blood clot survivors to make light of their experiences and help raise awareness,” Annie said.
The impact on her life and loved ones
Living through two DVT episodes as a teen has shaped Annie in profound ways.
“This experience forced me to discover what is truly important to me, my strengths, and what I value,” she reflected.
For her family and friends, Annie’s blood clot journey has been an emotional rollercoaster. Facing a condition that is rare among teenagers has underscored how serious thrombosis can be for people of any age.
Her experiences have given her a sense of purpose, motivating her to be vocal about thrombosis awareness, particularly for young athletes.
“I would encourage all athletes to get assessed for thoracic outlet syndrome,” she says. “This condition is becoming more common, and awareness can save lives.”
Learn more about Annie’s advocacy work on Instagram at @annietslocum.
