Cynthia's Posts

After a couple of stressful weeks, I have received great news. When my annual echo revealed that the pressure gradient across my aortic valve was critically high, I was dumbfounded. The next couple of days were a blur. The only words that resonated in my mind were the ones of my cardiologist informing me that the artificial aortic valve that I had implanted over 10 years ago would have to be replaced. Needless to say, I was upset but came to the realization that if surgery was required, I had no other choice but to succumb to the doctor's orders. My faith in God helped me overcome the anxiety and fear that loomed for the first couple of days. My family, friends and church family all prayed for me on a constant basis. I am certain that faith was my saving grace. I visited the surgeon late last week. After a subsequent echo and lab work, he recommended a TEE. At that time, the doctors discovered that I have a small perforation underneath the aortic valve. The combination of the velocity of the blood pumping through the valve and the perforation were what indicated a high pressure gradient. The surgeon informed me that surgery would not be required since the perforation is small, and I have no symptoms whatsoever. However, they will continue monitoring the perforation just like they do my artificial aortic valve. I can't even begin to describe how elated my family and I are after receiving such great news. We have an amazing God who does answer prayers. All we have to do is have faith in Him. God bless you all!