About Me (In My Own Words)
January 17, 2014, marked the beginning of the next phase of my life. I am in my sixth month after heart valve replacement surgery.
What happens if my valve wears out in fifteen years? Will I need a second surgery?
Despite my concerns, I am so grateful to be alive and to be able to function properly.
I was diagnosed during my Welcome to Medicare Exam. What an introduction to being a senior citizen!! But, here I am, thankful for each new day, grateful to be able to breathe, to exercise, even to take a walk.
January 17, 2017
I am celebrating three years post surgery. I have made friends with the ugly keloid in the middle of my chest. No matter what I try, it refuses to decrease in size, blend into my skin, or to become any lighter. I understand now, that I will be a heart patient for the rest of my days. I do not have heart disease. It was described as a congenital heart defect, that the doctors said was fixed with the surgery. Without my porcine valve, I might not be here and breathing today. I have been reassured that I will not need to have a second surgery.
Each new day is a gift from God.
July 20, 2018
Fours years and I'm ticking just fine. I'm still on the six month schedule, hoping to graduate to once a year. I will find out in August of this year, where I stand. My keloid remains unchanged. It still looks awful, and itches a lot, no matter what I try to make it any better. People stare at it. I am self-conscious. But, I can breathe, I can exercise, I can operate normally, without any extra effort.
I do not like the way I have to sign in through Facebook. Why cannot I not log in just using my email address?
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Greenville, Mississippi
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My surgery date is:
January 17, 2014
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I was diagnosed with:
Aortic Regurgitation
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My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Replacement
Aortic Valve Repair
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My surgeon is:
Dr. John Craig
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My hospital is:
Baptist Memorial Hospital east Memphis, TN
