About Me (In My Own Words)
In January 2024, I had an appointment for a physical for starting Medicare. My blood work showed that my cholesterol was high. My Dr wanted to put me on medication for it. I said, “Can’t I just eat more oatmeal?” She laughed and told me that I could get a CT heart scan, and if the result was zero blockage, I wouldn’t need medicine. The only thing was that Medicare wouldn’t cover the cost. Only $75 - I gladly paid for it. Well, the good news was that I scored a zero, but the bad news was that it showed an aneurysm! So after more tests, I was sent to my Surgeon. He told me about my bicuspid aortic valve present since birth, and a large (5.6 cm) aneurysm in my ascending aorta. He scheduled surgery asap. 3 weeks later, Feb 13, 2024, I had open heart surgery to remove and replace the aorta and remove the valve and replace it with a mechanical valve.
I am 6 weeks into recovery. Had some trouble with a racing heart beat, and pushed too hard and fast at PT resulting in no exercise until I see my cardiologist next week.
I am a very active person. I had absolutely no symptoms before the diagnosis! I am really hoping that my lifestyle will return to pre- surgery levels!
I am so thankful that this was caught and taken care of before the aneurysm burst or split. I consider myself very lucky.
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
-
I am from:
Deer Mountain, South Dakota
-
My surgery date is:
February 13, 2024
-
I was diagnosed with:
Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Aortic Aneurysm
-
My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Replacement
Aortic Valve Repair
-
My surgeon is:
Dr. Charan Mungara