Although the MitraClip was recently recalled, one of our favorite patient success stories continues to be Kato Pomer from Los Angeles. As you might recall, Kato underwent a MitraClip procedure two years ago following a quick onset of severe mitral regurgitation.

Kato Pomer, 94, Mitral Valve Repair Patient

Yesterday, I learned that Kato just celebrated her 94th birthday. That said, I wanted to wish Kato a very, very, very happy birthday!

Keep on tickin’ Kato!

When diagnosed with a life threatening illness, such as severe heart valve disease, patients often confront uncomfortable emotions. Personally, I remember feelings of fear, anxiety and confusion. How me manage those emotions is often a test of our character, our courage, our self and our love for life.

One patient who just passed this test with flying colors is… Matt Fountain from Sarasota, Florida.

I first learned of Matt’s story six weeks ago. In an email, Matt told me that he was scheduled for an aortic valve replacement and an aortic root replacement surgery due to severe aortic stenosis and an aneurysm.

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In my opinion, this is quite inspiring and extraordinary…

I just spent some time at HeartValveJournals.com — our social network created for heart valve surgery patients and their caregivers. While there, I clicked on Judy Fridono’s journal to see how she was doing after her mitral valve replacement and quadruple bypass operation.

Judy Fridono – Mitral Valve Replacement & Quadruple Bypass Patinet

I was happy to see that Judy is continuing to recover after her surgery. At 12 weeks post-op, Judy writes, “I guess I’m feeling pretty good. I’d say I’m 90% back to normal. Unfortunately, I don’t have more energy than I did pre-surgery.”

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It is an unexpected privilege and honor to support the patients and the caregivers of this community.

When I started this online project five years ago, I never thought my inbox would receive empowering stories from so many people including Bill Easton, Margarita Easton and Dr. Allan Stewart.

Bill, 86, and Margarita Easton

To this point, here are excerpts from a recent email exchange with Margarita. As you will read below, Bill, her husband is now in the early part of his recovery. Margarita writes to me:

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For those of you following the story of 5-year old Sarah Weir… I have great news to share!!!

Sarah’s mitral valve repair surgery was completed by Dr. Pedro Del Nido at Children’s Hospital Boston on Wednesday. After some minor post-operative issues (blood pressure, swelling), Dr. Del Nido is very happy with the results!

Sarah Weir – Two Days After Mitral Valve Repair Surgery

As for Sarah… Pam, her mother, writes, “Sarah is mad as hell – but doing GREAT!!! She wants to go home! I ask New York??? She says NO – HOME – THE FOUR SEASONS.”

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