Comments on: After Bicuspid Valve Replacement And Root Repair, It’s Softball Season For Kevin

By: Kevin

Kevin — Fri, 01 May 2009 02:43:41 +0000

Jimmy, my friends don’t believe me until they hear it ! Then they think I have a watch in my pocket. Great to hear you are doing well.

By: Karl

Karl — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 13:29:43 +0000

As a teammate and friend of Kevins, I’ll vouch for him that he hasn’t missed a beat (no pun intended) on the softball field and in life. His entire story is an inspiration for all of us and I’ve been motivated by his hard work and resiliency. Keep it up Kev! – HK

By: Jimmy Beville

Jimmy Beville — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 02:51:31 +0000

Kevin,
I had my aortic valve replacement and aortic root repaired on Oct. 27 2008. Im also 39 years old. I had my surgery done in Atlanta, GA. I also chose the mechanical valve. Small world!!! I agree with you, knock on wood, that Coumadin therapy isn’t the horror story that its talked about. I bet your clicking chest has been as much of a circus freak show, as it has been for me. All my friends want to hear it!!!

By: Sean

Sean — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:14:26 +0000

John, your recovery, like Kevin’s and mine, will probably be relatively fast and successful. I am convinced by my own and similar stories that being active and in good shape prior to surgery makes a huge difference. I’m 60, had aortic root and bicuspid valve replacement (bovine tissue) last August. I started cardiac rehab 3 weeks after surgery, and 12 weeks later I was back at the Y swimming laps and lifting weights. 6 months after surgery it was like it never happened – except for my sexy scar, of course! I chose a tissue valve because I didn’t want to be on coumadin the rest of my (very long) life.

By: Kevin

Kevin — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 23:54:51 +0000

John, you will be in good hands with that practice. If you would like, send your contact info. to Adam with permission for him to forward it to me, and I would be more than happy to get in touch with you to share more details about my experience about the doctor, the hospital, cardiac rehab etc. I wish you all the best !!!

Kevin

By: John Manning

John Manning — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 20:35:10 +0000

Kevin, congratulations on your recovery. I too live in Kalamazoo and am close to needing an aortic replacement. I have been an athlete all my life and have yet to read about an active person such as your self. Being 55 years old my valve choice is a toss up. I plan on having my surgery by the same cardiac office as you chose. Your story is inspirational and I thank you for sharing it. Best Wishes, John