Adam’s Updates Blog - Page 15
By Adam Pick
“Will The Surgeon ‘Ice’ My Heart During Surgery?” Asks Alma
Written By: Adam Pick, Patient Advocate, Author & Website Founder
Page Last Updated: May 9, 2025
I just received an interesting question from Alma about a critical step during heart valve repair and heart valve replacement surgeries. Alma writes, “Adam – I’m going in for surgery next week. Thanks to your book, my anxiety has greatly decreased. I’m curious… I know my heart is going to be cooled and stopped during surgery. But, will my surgeon actually put ice on my bare heart? Alma”
“What Percent of Heart Valve Surgeries Are Re-Operations?” Asks Marc
Written By: Adam Pick, Patient Advocate, Author & Website Founder
Medical Expert: Kevin Accola, MD and Paul Stelzer, MD
Page Last Updated: May 13, 2025
I just received a very interesting email from Marc about heart valve surgery re-operations. He writes, “Adam, I’m an active 47 year-old just diagnosed with severe mitral regurgitation. I can’t help but think that I’ll need a 2nd surgery if I get a repair or a tissue valve. Do you know what percent of valve surgeries are re-operations? Are they primarily from surgical error or degenerative reasons? Thanks, Marc”
My Heart Remembers Scotty
By Adam Pick on September 11, 2010
As difficult as the memories of today can be, I always end up smiling in Scotty’s memory – his bubbly laugh, constant high fives and ability to see the good in everything around him.
Friday Fun: Blue Jean Diapers… Really?
By Adam Pick on September 3, 2010
Every once in a while I see a product that makes me think, “Huh?”, “What?”, “No way!”, “Can’t be!” and “Really?” The last time I had that thought was when the marketeers at Chia America released… Chia Obama.
My Blog Gets A Facelift… Your Thoughts?
By Adam Pick on August 25, 2010
Over the past 4 years, many of you have written me with excellent and innovative suggestions for improving this website. As a result, we have created some great new services including the Heart Valve Surgeon Database and Heart Valve Journals.
Off-Topic: World’s Most Embarrassing Typo?
By Adam Pick on August 13, 2010
Well, here’s something to make your old English teacher gasp in horror…
Rapid Growth Continues At Heart Valve Journals… Thanks To Trevor & Company!
By Adam Pick on July 7, 2010
If you have yet to visit our new social network, Heart Valve Journals, I would encourage you to stop by. Since launching this new community, thousands of patients and caregivers have used this online network to meet, support and stay in-touch with each other.
Be Still My Beating Heart…
By Adam Pick on July 2, 2010
I am a huge fan of all types of music – from classic rock to jazz to country to opera to new age. I even play a few instruments including the guitar and bass.
Thank You, Media Planet & The Chicago Tribune
By Adam Pick on June 30, 2010
As strange as this sounds… In today’s edition of The Chicago Tribune I find myself on the cover of an educational magazine titled “Cardiovascular Care”.
Friday Fun: Why Do Boys Need Their Parents?
Written By: Adam Pick, Patient Advocate, Author & Website Founder
Page Last Updated: June 7, 2025
As many of you know, I’m a newbie when it comes to parenting. As Ethan, my first child is 15 months old now, Robyn (my wife) and I are continuously learning about our new roles as “Mah-Mah” and “Dah-Dah” every day. Along the way, I think Ethan (shown below) may be learning a thing or two from us as well.
Now Shipping Paperbacks Internationally!
By Adam Pick on May 27, 2010
Over the years, I have received many patient and caregiver requests for paperback copies of my book from countries including Belgium, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Finland, Germany, Japan, Chile, Singapore, South Africa, New Zealand and more.
“What Does Mitral Stenosis Look Like?” Asks Ted
By Adam Pick on May 10, 2010
Ted just sent me a very appropriate question about mitral valve stenosis.
“Happy Mother’s Day!” Wishes From Ethan
By Adam Pick on May 9, 2010
Ethan, my one-year old son, wants to say “Happy Mother’s Day!” to all the moms and grandmas!!!
Video Reminder To… Embrace Life
By Adam Pick on May 8, 2010
Sam Swerdlow, a recent aortic valve replacement patient from Oregon, just sent me this incredibly innovative and thoughtful video. I hope you enjoy it and remember to… embrace life.
“Is Rheumatic Heart Valve Disease Common?” Asks Frank
By Adam Pick on May 2, 2010
I just received an interesting question from Frank about rheumatic heart disease and heart valve surgery.
Off Topic: Stop And Smell The Roses
By Adam Pick on April 21, 2010
Several months after my surgery, I started gardening. While I continue to lack a knowledgeable green thumb, I really enjoy the process of working alongside Mother Nature. Even with all my gardening mishaps, I am super lucky to have a springtime rose bloom going on right now.
Triva: How Many Times Do Your Four Heart Valves Open And Close Each Day?
By Adam Pick on April 11, 2010
Okay, here’s our heart valve trivia question for the day:
Special Announcement: Our $5,000 Donation To Gift Of Life!!!
By Adam Pick on March 31, 2010
Since starting this website four years ago, my primary objective was to help future patients and caregivers understand the challenges, opportunities and realities of heart valve surgery.
Upcoming Surgeries
Tricia Casey
Mitral Regurgitation
September 1, 2025
Jonathan Calleja
Mitral Regurgitation
October 1, 2025
Margaret Williams
Aortic Stenosis
October 1, 2025
Surgeon Spotlight
Dr. Chikwe is a world-renowned heart valve surgeon that has performed thousands of heart valve operations that include minimally-invasive techniques.
