I too was anxious when I found out that I might need surgery this past summer. The anxiety between waiting for the next round of tests that would determine my fate was incredible. Once finding out in the fall that it was time…A huge wave of emotions struck me. I cried, I was angered etc. Then I came out of it and said no big deal. Then I met w/ the Surgeon in November…that night I lost all. I needed to. I had been on the brink of a major anxiety meltdown but was pushing it aside saying no big deal, but after the first meeting w/ the surgeon, I couldn’t hold it in anymore. With that being said, and tears being shed, I felt more in control. I felt I could face it better. Get a better grip. January 7th I had my minimally invasive mitral valve repair surgery. All went well. I laughed my way into the operating room - and laughed my way out on discharge day. (even though laughing hurts after surgery - it was a sacrifice I was willing to make.) I am recovering well. I feel so glad I went and had the operation. I’m sore sure everyone is sore after any type of surgery, but the outcome if I had not had the surgery….don’t want to think about it. Just feeling blessed my problem was found while I could do something about it. Just know that you are not alone. We are many. Take care.