Susan smith posted a note for Tracy that says: Tracy, teachers are unsung hero's no one knows what it is like until you are in their shoes. Take a deep breath and move forward. I know you will do extremely well. keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Carol Jackson posted a note for Tracy that says: Boy can I relate! I taught middle school and elem. school for many years. In fact when I found out 5 years ago that I had this anuersym, I was beginning to be really stressed out with teaching: all the paperwork, testing, more meetings, etc. I was fortunate to be able to take EARLY retirement so I could focus on my health.
I wish you the best as you teach, plan for surgery, get everything organized, etc. That's tough. That doesn't surprise me what your principal said to you. Does she realize what a major surgery it is? Just remember you have sick leave, you have subs, etc.
Take care of yourself! I will keep you in my prayers for the last few days of work and your upcoming surgery. Take care.

Jim Jones posted a note for Tracy that says: You got it, Tracy. Monday for me. Good luck on Wednesday!

Jim Jones posted a note for Tracy that says: Hey Tracy
Job number 1 is you. The rest of the stuff will sort itself out. The funny thing is that in the grand scheme of things it is temporary stuff that is really not that important. Folks will respond in different ways to your news. It's odd for sure. Invest yourself in supportive, calm, caring and positive people. That, in my opinion, is most helpful for all of us pre-surgery. All the best.

Penny posted a note for Tracy that says: This is not really an elective surgery. It's a life saving surgery and you needed to get on your surgeon's or schedule. Your job is an important and well respected one, but your life is your priority right now! Hopefully, your principal will understand that you had no choice!!! Good luck!!

Lynn Ennis posted a note for Tracy that says: Tracy,
Don't let the small things get to you...otherwise they will constantly tick you off! I had some similar feelings...people mean well..they just don't get it right all the time! I have OHS next week...I am closing shop...not talking to many folks, not opening all my email,etc, just trying to quiet the background noise and distractions. Its working for me so give it a go as your time comes close.Best,

Tara McCallister posted a note for Tracy that says: Tracy, I know what you mean when people call it a "procedure", It's like NO, this is Major surgery. Hoping everything goes well for you in yours. Mine is scheduled for the 21st of this month.

Jim Jones posted a note for Tracy that says: Tracy:
I get you. Perhaps you could send them links to some of Dr. Adam's surgery videos? That will sober anyone up pretty quick! I hope you are working thru your to do list and that everything is proceeding well for you. I have noticed that the pace is picking up for my wife and me this week. We are out of here on Saturday with pre-tests on Monday and Showtime on Tuesday. Will watch the NYC marathon Sunday. I think it goes right by the hotel. Stay well, Tracy!

Carol Jackson posted a note for Tracy that says: Ya! People think its really no big deal until you tell them how long the surgery is(6 hours!), your ribs are spread out, be on the heart lung machine and that there will be an 8 inch scar. Even then they don't understand. After the surgery they finally do understand and realize what a strong courageous person you are! It will be good for you to be on the other side of surgery! That's why this web site is so important to all of us because people on this site understand.good luck.

Jim Jones posted a note for Tracy that says: Hey Tracy:
Great to hear about shopping! That is essential, you know! I think Joe K is using Mt. Sinai for cardiac rehab. Drop a message in his journal. I'm sure he could help you. Keep up the good work. Best.

Jackie posted a note for Tracy that says: I was told to sign up for rehab after, not sure that it would matter. I am trying to clean and get everything in order, my surgery is Tuesday. I am just now starting to get nervous, I will be glad when it's this time next week"!

Lynn Ennis posted a note for Tracy that says: Hi Tracy,

I have a pile of new stuff for the 'event' plus a few things I just wanted! I figure since I will be house bound for a month or so I will save a ton of money!! It feels very good to feel prepared in that way. Plus my family and friends are with me too.
Mentally I feel strong and calm. Physically, I have started a hi protein, gluten and dairy free diet; nothing too hectic.So I am ready, but not very happy. I feel sad about all this. I think that's ok, it's a huge deal we are about to embark on. You are one week after me so I will be following you too!

Gina H posted a note for Tracy that says: Hi Tracy!

I also had mild mitral valve prolapse and had regular echo's. Then, 2 summers ago at 45, I learned that I had severe regurgitation and would need surgery. I had my surgery with Dr. Adam's in June of 2012. You will be with the best! He was wonderful and the whole staff was wonderful! Best wishes to you!

Joe posted a note for Tracy that says: Hi Tracy,
Dr Adams did my surgery too and he is great. So is his entire team especially Terry, Teresa, Jose and Dr Arora who you will see everyday of your stay at Mt Sinai. Best wishes and prayers to you.

Lynn Ennis posted a note for Tracy that says: Hi Tracey,
Great that you like him! You are a week after me, I go in Nov.7th. There are quite a few of us November grads! I will follow you.

Jim Jones posted a note for Tracy that says: Hey Tracy
So glad it went well. Making the personal connections and learning about the surgery is really helpful. I will be there on 11/4 for my pre-admit stuff so perhaps we will have the chance to meet one another!

Susan Sevier posted a note for Tracy that says: Tracy...best of luck today. My initial consultation with the surgeon made all the difference for me. I hope you have the same experience.

Jim Jones posted a note for Tracy that says: Tracy
Best of success tomorrow with Dr. Adams tomorrow. Tell him I look forward to seeing him Nov 5th for my surgery! Great that your mother can be with you. It really is helpful to have someone with you. Be prepared to view two LCD screens during your meeting. It is quite helpful to see exactly what he is talking about. I saw my echo and what a healthy valve looks like. Please say hi to Terry King too if you end up visiting with her. She is great to work with and to have as an ongoing contact for questions. And questions will come up. All the best.

Leslie Holtzclaw posted a note for Tracy that says: Hi Tracy,

My surgery is October 24th. My cardio had been monitoring me for a few years and I'm in the same place as you, severe mitral regurgitation.

Surprisingly, all my siblings were checked and my brother had the same. He had his surgery on September 19th and is doing great!!

I'm anxious about the upcoming surgery but found a wonderful book and cd that I just started reading and is very helpful. http://www.healfaster.com/

Best to you! I know we both will feel great with increased energy. :D

Take care!!! Leslie

Brian Walsh posted a note for Tracy that says: Just read your entries and can very much relate to your thought process and shock. We have all been there. All feeling healthy, good and ready when you get that initial shock. Your in good hands going to Dr. Adams, let him know your desire to get it done this year and timing and he will get you in. I met him in Nov and he squeezed me into Dec. I was very thankful for that. All the best, you'll be 110% by the time this all passes.

Wes Phillips posted a note for Tracy that says: Tracy,

I too went in for a visit to the Cardiologist expecting a very quick visit and reassurance - - instead he told me I have severe Mitral Valve Regurgitation and needed open heart surgery. I got so mad I stopped listening and left his office. It took me two weeks until I could deal with the information and then returned to the cardiologist and started the process of testing, learning and preparing.

I was like you, very active and concerned about the ability to continue with that life style.

If you approach this with a "one step at a time" attitude, much like an active workout, you may be surprised at how well you take on this challenge.

It has been 17 months since my surgery and in my circumstance I feel I made the correct decision to have the repair done. I am back to all I was doing prior to surgery. I believe that there are many journals on this community that will provide sound insight that will help you with you concerns and uncertainty.

Wes Phillips
MVR 5/9/12

Jim Jones posted a note for Tracy that says: Hey Tracy
Welcome! Dr. Adams will repair my mitral valve on November 5th. I am looking forward to it. Good luck with your meeting with him in October. Your fitness will sure help your recovery. All the best.

Carol Jackson posted a note for Tracy that says: This website is wonderful. Hang in there and take care. My surgery is scheduled for Oct. 8.