I'm praying for you to make the best choice. cj

Laurie; This is a great way to stay in touch. We'll be pulling for you with our thoughts and prayers.
Judy and Ellen

Hi Laurie!

Welcome to HVJ. I had my aortic valve replaced at the Cleveland Clinic (Dr. Sabik) in May. I got a bovine valve because I did not want to be on blood thinners the rest of my life. (At the Cleveland Clinic most patients with tissue valves are never put on blood thinners; at other places partients are on blood thinners for several months after surgery.) I was very happy with my experience at CC - they're #1 for a reason!!

Best of luck to you as you prepare for surgery. This is a great community of people - please feel free to ask any questions you have.

Ricki Shine

Hi Laurie,
It must feel good to have that decision made.
I am also leaning that way, but will see what the docs think during consults. I am with you about not wanting to be on Coumadin the rest of my life.
Apparently you are a gardener...me too!! Can't get enough! You will be back to all that fun next season, so good for you!!
Good Luck and don't worry....
Nancy H.

Yea! You went for the pig! Here's to an amazingly colorful spring and dirt under our fingernails next summer! Wishing you a speedy recovery as your gardens await your special care! XOXO Kim

Hi Laurie. Welcome to HVJ. My aortic valve was replaced in July & I also chose tissue. Life has pretty much returned to normal for me now. Reading others' journals helps prepare for the surgery so I hope you'll use this resource for that. One journal you might want to take a look at is Anne Shannon's. She's also from Colorado (Evergreen) & went to the Cleveland Clinic for her surgery. I wish you the best with your surgery & recovery. Joy Vera