Home > Adam's Blog > Patient Stories > Golfing, Heart Surgery And Dennis’ Hole-In-One

Golfing, Heart Surgery And Dennis’ Hole-In-One

Written By: Adam Pick, Patient Advocate, Author & Website Founder
Page Last Updated: June 9, 2025

I stunk at golf before heart surgery. Really, in thinking about it, that might be an understatement. Now, it is several years after my open heart surgery.

Guess what?

I still stink at golf!

But, that is not the point I’m trying to make. Here’s the point… Many patients head into heart surgery in a world of uncertainty with questions like “Can I do this activity post-surgery?” or “Will I be able to do that after surgery?”

All of these doubts are completely rational. I did the exact same thing when I was rolled in for my aortic valve replacement operation. But, I’m here to tell you, after a double heart valve replacement, that you can fully recover and you can restore your body to re-achieve whatever you set your mind too.

If golfing is your thing before heart surgery. Well, golfing should be your thing after heart surgery.

Here’s a quick story about Dennis. I met Dennis during my three-month cardiac rehab program. Originally from Scotland, the great-spirited Dennis is 72 years old and full of energy.

One day, Dennis walked into the cardiac rehab (at Torrance Memorial Hospital) and blurted out, “I went golfing this morning! I shot a HOLE-IN-ONE. My first time in over fifty years of playing golf!”

We erupted in encouraging shouts and applause for Dennis and his amazing accomplishment.

Trust me and Dennis… You can fully recover from heart surgery.

Written by Adam Pick
- Patient & Website Founder

Written by Adam Pick - Patient & Website Founder

Adam Pick is a heart valve patient and author of The Patient's Guide To Heart Valve Surgery. In 2006, Adam founded HeartValveSurgery.com to educate and empower patients. This award-winning website has helped over 10 million people fight heart valve disease. Adam has been featured by the American Heart Association and Medical News Today.

Ted Burgmeier says on August 18th, 2008 at 3:25 pm

Congratulations to Dennis. I am scheduled for a double valve repalcement this Thursday and can’t wait to hit the links next year. Best wishes. Ted

Dan says on July 20th, 2015 at 9:51 am

I had open heart surgery 4 months ago and I am having trouble playing golf.
I was a 15 handicap but now am a 29. I think that I have lost balance or rhythm in my swing. Also noticed being uncoordinated when playing ping pong and badmittion with grand kids. Can I be still affected by