Heart Valve Surgery Success Story: Veronika Meyer
Mountain Climber Phenomena
The story of Veronika Meyer is extraordinary. A heart valve replacement recipient at age forty-six, Veronika has a unique mountain climbing hobby. Actually, mountain climbing is more than a hobby for Veronika. It’s more of an obsession for the scientist from St. Gallen, Switzerland.
Since receiving a St. Jude Medical Mechanical Heart Valve in 1997, Veronika Meyer’s mountain climbing accomplishments include the ascent of Mount McKinley, the highest mountain in North America, and Aconcagua, the highest peak of both the Americas.
In 2003, Veronika Meyer attempted the ultimate mountain climbing challenge - Mount Everest. Unfortunately, Veronika’s first attempt was not a success. Veronika was forced to turn back just below the famous Second Step landmark because of a heavy storm.
Although disappointed, Veronika was pleased to have climbed to 8,600 meters or 28,215 feet—her "personal best" altitude. 
Then, in 2005, Veronika Meyer made her second attempt to summit Mount Everest, but had to turn back at 7800 meters because of unpredictable weather conditions. Although two members of Veronika’s team reached the peak, a third member tragically died during that expedition.
Veronika experienced three failed attempts to climb to the top of the world, located at 8,850 meters (29,035 feet) above sea level.
However, in 2007, on her fourth attempt, Veronika conquered Mount Everest. By all known accounts, Veronika Meyer is the first mountain climber implanted with a mechanical heart valve to successfully ascend Everest.
“Conditions were excellent this year with a lot of snow, but in addition, all of us were strong,” Meyer said.
Since New Zealander Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay first reached Everest in 1953, about 2,000 climbers have scaled the mountain. Another 205 people have died on its dangerous slopes.
“Veronika’s amazing accomplishment should offer inspiration to millions of heart-valve patients around the world,” said George Fazio, president of St. Jude’s cardiovascular division. “Despite living with a heart condition for many years, she has refused to accept limits and has pursued her goals with tremendous courage and determination.” > NEXT: To read more patient success stories following heart valve surgery, please click here.
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