Nancy's Guestbook

I had my aorta valve and the aorta replaced on Dec 27th. It will be 5 weeks tommorow. I knew about since I was 8 years old. But that still didn't make it scary for a few weeks between the first consult with the surgeon and the week of surgery. But I knew that surgery was the only option, mostly because of the aorta aneurism. I had confidence in my cardiologist that the surgeon he sent me to would be the best intone area for my condition. When I shard with my closest church friends, I learned that at least one had his surgery with this surgeon. Both he and his wife were very satisfied. I later learned that two coworkers had this surgeon. And all the rehab nurses have nothing but praise for him. Having surgery right after Christmas was a little rough,but I think it helped. The music and having family around really helped. And one the morning before surgery while waiting for my daughter and hand daughter to get here and while writing my pre surgery journal, I heard 3 of my most inspirational Christian songs. At that point my fears were lifted and I knew I would survive the surgery. All the stories and guest book comments have just enforced my faith and I know there are many people that I will likely never meet in person that prayed for me and my family. I know that God will watch over you and the surgical team. Note: John Fox the Denver Broncos coach had his aorta surgery in Charlotte at the Sanger Heart and Vascular center.

Nancy, Welcome to this community. I had surgery Oct. 8, 2013 on my aortic aneurysm due to BAV at Mayo in Rochester, MN. Please read My Story and Journal. I could not have done it without my strong faith and all the prayers from my family, friends, church community, and this community. I hope you will inspired by my journal. Please feel free to email with any questions. Cbjackson13@aol.com Make sure you get a second opinion. Hope this helps. This community was and still is a lifesaver!

I first learned of my bicuspid aortic valve in November. The cardiologist thought I would have at least 5-10 years before needing surgery....until 12/26 when a ct scan found a very large aneurysm. I had surgery on 1/9/14. Still in shock at the sudden need for heart surgery. Good luck on your journey.

Nancy, welcome to the Community. We on this website are in various stages - some are pre-op and waiting, others are in the hospital and surgery and others are post-op and recovering. I am in the first category - pre-op and waiting. I go every 6 months to get an echo done and then I see the Cardio. My last time he talked about more test ( I have already had a TEE) and valve replacement surgery. So I expect things to move along after my next visit which is 3/7. I have know of my murmur for over 30 years and never knew or suspected it could end up in heart surgery. Like you I was shook up at first. I think you will find lots of good info in this Community. Read the other Journals . Take care and things will work out. I am a Christian too and really just share with your Pastor that you need prayer. I am sure he will pray with you and who knows how God will move in your situation. Take care and keep everyone posted as you progress.

Hi Nancy I remember the phone call from my doctor informing me that surgery was necessary. Like you I became numb but knew something was wrong because of the same symptoms that you have described. Having just celebrated one year since the replacement of my aortic valve, I'd say that the end results can be amazing. This forum contains a wealth of information and the members are such a valuable asset. Feel free to ask any questions.