Pamela's Profile

After having a Pre-Op Echo for Sinus Surgery in late March, I was called by my Internist and told that the Echo showed that I needed an Aortic Valve replacement. I had just returned from snorkeling in the Carribbean for 7 day and was shocked. My previous Echo and Stress test indicated that I was fine - no problem but it was a poor Echo, the Stress test was fine.. After being terrified by my Cardiologist I recieved a 2nd opinion from an Aoric specialist at NYU.He said that I had severe stenosis - I was not in immediate danger but I should have the surgery in 4-8 weeks. So, I will have surgery at New York-Presbyterian in NYC w Dr Craig Smith on June 24. I am confident that I will be OK but I am praying a lot and meditating for relaxation as well. Just completed my Pre-Op yesterday and the NYPH Cardiac Surgery team was fantastic. Dr Smith is so well regarded that every Cariologist in my family feels that I am in very good hands. Will take a CATH on Thursday 6/16 -have never had this before so I am a little nervious. Will check-in later and before I go to the hospital on 6/24. Pam