Guestbook of Cristen Marzula

My Guestbook

On January 16, 2016...

Michele posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hi Cristen! Hope you're recovering well!!! Did you have a root replacement too? Did you have any post op complications? Thank you!!

Like |

Cristen Marzula Hi Michele –

Thank you for the well wishes! My surgery consisted of a repair to my unicuspid aortic valve (now bicuspid), and a repair of an ascending aortic ... Read more

Cristen Marzula Hi Michele –

Thank you for the well wishes! My surgery consisted of a repair to my unicuspid aortic valve (now bicuspid), and a repair of an ascending aortic aneurysm. My aortic root was and is still healthy.

I didn’t have any major complications post-op. Like most OHS patients, I experienced severe chest pain (muscular and skeletal) during the first 4-5 months of the healing process. Months 5-12 have been intermittent pain that also involves my neck and right shoulder.

I do experience pre-ventricular contractions (PVC) that my surgeon and cardiologist determined as benign. I don’t drink caffeine and rarely drink alcohol in an attempt to avoid PVCs.

Feel free to let me know if you have additional questions = ) Having the support of fellow patients has really helped me through this journey!

On May 25, 2015...

joan duncan posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hi Cristen- I've followed your story here with great interest. My husband has been diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm at the root. Surgeons have told us he is a candidate for the David Procedure with minimal repair work to his aortic valve. We're finding that there are only a few surgeons out there who do this surgery via a mini-sternotomy. Did you have the David Procedure? Sounds like your mini-sternotomy was a success. Thanks for any feedback!

Like |

Cristen Marzula Hi Joan - My aortic root was healthy and didn't require surgical repair. If possible, I would highly suggest that you consult with a cardiologist and surgeon ... Read more

Cristen Marzula Hi Joan - My aortic root was healthy and didn't require surgical repair. If possible, I would highly suggest that you consult with a cardiologist and surgeon at a facility of excellence (Cleveland Clinic, Mayo, etc). These specialized procedures (on high risk patients) are performed daily at top facilities.

On February 14, 2015...

Peter Willard posted a note for Cristen that says:

Cristen that is a great story we are lucky to be born when we did because years ago they did not have these operations.I had a bovine valve in 2010.
Good Luck
Pete

Like | 1 person likes this

On February 5, 2015...

Adam Pick posted a note for Cristen that says:

Cristen, I could not resist sharing your pictures and your incredible story with our community across Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and my blog. Absooooolutely amazing what Dr. Roselli did to your unicuspid aortic valve! Thanks for sharing! http://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2015/02/05/incision-healing-after-heart-surgery/

Patient Q&A: How Fast Does A Heart Surgery Incision Heal?

http://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2015/02/05/incision-healing-after-heart-surgery/

I often receive the question, "How fast does a heart surgery incision heal?" It's a great question. Unfortunately, I don't have a precise answer considering

Like | Cristen Marzula and 1 other likes this

On February 2, 2015...

Teddy posted a note for Cristen that says:

Pulling for you on the regular... Here's to "bad days" being few and far between in the coming weeks and months! Stay strong, Bearcat!

Like |

On January 27, 2015...

Amy DiGiovanni Noack posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hi Cristen! How are you doing? I'm up on Monday and I'm a ball of nerves...I'm supposed to get the confirmation tomorrow. How has your recovery been so far? Hope all is well:)

Like |

Cristen Marzula Hi Amy! Thank you for checking on my progress = ) This past Thursday marked 6 weeks post-op. I had my follow-up appointment on Friday with my cardiologist, ... Read more

Cristen Marzula Hi Amy! Thank you for checking on my progress = ) This past Thursday marked 6 weeks post-op. I had my follow-up appointment on Friday with my cardiologist, Dr. Tuzcu of the Cleveland Clinic, and received GREAT echo and EKG results. That's definitely a first for me in 30 years!

My journal is in desperate need of an update - I found it really difficult to keep up with the abundance of communication outlets and just focused on relaxing and recovering. I will admit that the pain the first 3-4 weeks following surgery was definitely a challenge! My appetite also struggled, which effected my initial healing. Around Day 12 I really pushed myself to start eating small meals and snacks every hour.

As my surgeon Dr. Roselli told me, expect to have "bad days," but know that the next day WILL be better. It has been quite the physical, emotional, and spiritual journey! I will definitely keep you and your family in my prayers tomorrow. I hope that you're able to find peace and a moment of calm as you enter the operating room. Wishing you a successful surgery AND recovery.

On January 20, 2015...

Emily Shively posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hey Cristen! Thanks for the message. Yes, I noticed that our stories are very similar so I've been following your surgery and recovery closely! Hearing how good your experience was gives me hope. I hope you're continuing to get stronger and get back to normal. I'll be so glad when this is all over!

Like |

Cristen Marzula The greatest advice I received was from my surgeon. Upon our initial consolation, Dr. Roselli made it very clear that there will be "bad days" during the recovery ... Read more

Cristen Marzula The greatest advice I received was from my surgeon. Upon our initial consolation, Dr. Roselli made it very clear that there will be "bad days" during the recovery process, but to trust that the next day will be better. The other bit of simple, yet informative advice was to "take it slow." It's quite easy to compare our recoveries to other patients. I didn't walk out of the ICU, and I certainly didn't jump on a treadmill 4 weeks post-op! This has definitely been the most physically challenging experience. Celebrate the small accomplishments of each day - it might start with getting out of bed on your own or the first time brushing your teeth. Baby-steps = )

I certainly will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers! I can't wait until you feel well enough to post about your successful surgery.

Emily Shively Thanks for the advice! I went for my pre op testing this morning, and I'm curious about sonething. From one young heart patient to another - are you always ... Read more

Emily Shively Thanks for the advice! I went for my pre op testing this morning, and I'm curious about sonething. From one young heart patient to another - are you always the youngest person in the waiting room? I always am - by far. Even the nurses are always surprised by my age. I guess that's just part of having a bicuspid valve! :)

Cristen Marzula Haha that definitely tends to be our norm ; ) I also had several of the medical staff comment on my "young age." More now than ever, I feel VERY fortunate ... Read more

Cristen Marzula Haha that definitely tends to be our norm ; ) I also had several of the medical staff comment on my "young age." More now than ever, I feel VERY fortunate that my valve actually lasted 30 years!

I recently saw a young patient wish herself a Happy Birthday, and comment that she was also celebrating her new valve being 14 days old. I love that idea = )

On January 13, 2015...

Ron Shaw posted a note for Cristen that says:

I praise God for your successful surgery and the strength that he has given you , it seem you have a great support group with , My prayers will continue to be with you and your family , May the blessing of God continue to be upon you . be bless my friend . I miss yah !

Like |

On December 26, 2014...

Terri Alberta posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hi Cristen, thank you for posting! I have been following you because my son Cole (age 37) is scheduled for surgery with your surgeon Dr. Roselli on Jan 7. He is going to have his mitral valve repaired and his bicuspid aortic valve repaired or replaced. I am so glad that your surgery went well and you are now home with your family and on the road to recovery. We have not met with Dr. Roselli so it has helped us so much to follow you. Happy New Year! Best, Terri

Like |

Cristen Marzula Hi Terri! I'm so happy to hear that my posts have been beneficial for both you and your Son. Prior to my initial consultation with Dr. Tuzcu (cardiologist), ... Read more

Cristen Marzula Hi Terri! I'm so happy to hear that my posts have been beneficial for both you and your Son. Prior to my initial consultation with Dr. Tuzcu (cardiologist), I had already watched Dr. Roselli's white-board discussions on CC's website. (I highly suggest viewing all of Dr. Roselli's videos on YouTube) As soon as Dr. Tuzcu confirmed that I required surgery and would next meet with Dr. Roselli, my anxiety was replaced with excitement. Dr. Roselli was just fantastic! He explained my surgical options, and quickly discussed the pros and cons of each procedure before focussing in detail on the one that would benefit MY lifestyle. Just like watching his videos, Roselli will clearly illustrate his plan for the surgery through a series of drawings. I'm certain that your Son's experience will be as positive as mine. Please feel free to ask me any questions = )

Jim Kelly-Evans Dr. Roselli's videos are wonderful as are the other videos on the CC site.

On December 22, 2014...

Darby posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hello Cristen! I'm so happy the 2nd surgery went well! I just wanted to let you know that I'm keeping you in my thoughts and prayers! Please let me know if you need anything, Happy Holidays to you and your family, your post only is an awesome present! Keep your spirits up and take care. Darby

Like |

On December 21, 2014...

Torsten Brandt posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hi Cristen,
just heard about your heart problems today. My thoughts are with you. Stay strong! How are you doing now?

Like |

On December 20, 2014...

Rafael Martinez posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hi Cristen, how you doing. You didn't post any other news. Good luck to you Girl.

Like |

Cristen Marzula Hi Rafael - I'm 4 days post-op and finally had the energy and focus to post. It was very difficult to properly communicate for the first 3 days. Thanks for ... Read more

Cristen Marzula Hi Rafael - I'm 4 days post-op and finally had the energy and focus to post. It was very difficult to properly communicate for the first 3 days. Thanks for checking in. Recovery is certainly a slow daily process with many baby steps.

On December 18, 2014...

Jim Hernandez posted a note for Cristen that says:

Thinking of you and wishing you the greatest of success today! Looking forward to hearing all about the surgery and your recovery!

Like | 1 person likes this

Rafael Martinez Hi cris. Hope you ok. Let me know how you doing.

Cristen Marzula Thanks Jim! 1 giant victory on finally posting = ) Thanks for checkin-in!

On December 18, 2014...

Deborah Marcucci posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hello Mimi! I feel like I know you as your mother is your greatest supporter and over the years any conversation with her absolutely must include her babies -as it should. The power of a praying parent has worked for many years and at some point it is by your faith that God must work. How wonderful via events such as this that we learn that lesson.
Myself and a couple others have come into agreement with your mothers prayers. No need to re-pray for God is not deaf and he expects faith to accompany prayer and it I believe I must ask again for the same thing then where is my faith? So at 11:00 I began to praise God for working through the hospital staff for the wisdom, skills, and compassion he has instilled in them to serve you well.
I cannot imagine the fluctuating emotions at a time like this. You have always been a strong person per your mother's reports and that same strength, positive speech, and perseverance will assist in this leg of your life journey.
I look forward to speaking with your mother after your surgery and hearing of your awesome and beyond normal rate of recovery.

Like | Cristen Marzula and 2 others like this

tina fluhrer this is a beautiful post! Faith is accompanying my prayers as I watch my brother recover from valve replacement on Monday. I praise God for working through ... Read more

tina fluhrer this is a beautiful post! Faith is accompanying my prayers as I watch my brother recover from valve replacement on Monday. I praise God for working through the hospital staff for wisdom skills and compassion he has instilled to serve them well. Beautiful post!

Bob M Amen!!!

Cristen Marzula My Mommie is an incredible woman who truly loves her "babies." I wouldn't be where I am today without her! I'm convinced she has a direct connection with ... Read more

Cristen Marzula My Mommie is an incredible woman who truly loves her "babies." I wouldn't be where I am today without her! I'm convinced she has a direct connection with the Holy Spirit ; )

Thank you so much Debbie for your kind words and prayers. My mom thinks that I'm going to become this incredible athletic champion on my road to recovery - always my #1 fan! Haha

Happy Holidays and best wishes for a wonderful 2015!

On December 18, 2014...

Rich Sandberg posted a note for Cristen that says:

I was thinking of you my friend and know this will be nothing but a bump in the road for you. Your one tuff cookie, recoup quick!!!

Like | 2 people like this

Cristen Marzula I hear that bumps in the road are best resolved by another trip to Vegas ; ) Thanks Rich!

On December 18, 2014...

Rafael Martinez posted a note for Cristen that says:

I read your story and I'm 100% confident on you success.

Like | 2 people like this

On December 18, 2014...

Loni Cocca posted a note for Cristen that says:

Good luck today! I'm sure that everything will go smoothly and I'll be praying for a speedy recovery! You got this girl!

Like | Linda Crawford and 2 others like this

On December 18, 2014...

Katie Farrow posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hi Cristen. Sending positive thoughts and prayers your way today and in the future. Meow meow

Like | 1 person likes this

On December 18, 2014...

Jim Johnson posted a note for Cristen that says:

Best wishes for a smooth procedure and speedy recovery. Getting your heart fixed is an awesome Christmas present!

Like | Tammi Gunwall and 1 other likes this

On December 17, 2014...

Lisa Fuller posted a note for Cristen that says:

Best of luck to you today!

Like | 2 people like this

Tammi Gunwall We are are thinking and praying for you both today. You will do great!!! You have so many people out there that love you and are lifting you up in prayer as ... Read more

Tammi Gunwall We are are thinking and praying for you both today. You will do great!!! You have so many people out there that love you and are lifting you up in prayer as you enter surgery. Don't worry...God's got this. :)

On December 17, 2014...

John Noriega posted a note for Cristen that says:

Praying for you Cristen as well as your surgical team and your post-op support! Onward & Upward!

Like | 2 people like this

On December 17, 2014...

Tom Bender in KC posted a note for Cristen that says:

Cristen,
My thoughts and prayers to you, your family and surgron. I had the surgery 1 year ago. Had BAV since birth. Got it replaced at age 56. Feel great. Did not have many symptoms. My coworker who steered my to this website had it done 2 years ago in her 20s. God will take care of you.

Like | 2 people like this

tina fluhrer :)

On December 17, 2014...

ONeal Ray posted a note for Cristen that says:

Prayers to you and the doctors who will be performing this operation!! One thing I do know is your a strong women, your smile and energy is contagious and I know that will carry you through the tough days ahead! Love you girl!!!

Like | 2 people like this

Melinda Hacker Prayers for you my heart friend!

On December 17, 2014...

Amy DiGiovanni Noack posted a note for Cristen that says:

Sending positive vibes Cristen! All the best to you and your loved ones tomorrow. You'll be on your way to a healthy you in no time:) from one heart sista to another...God Bless

Like | 2 people like this

On December 17, 2014...

Tammy Pilcher posted a note for Cristen that says:

Cristen, I will keep you in my prayers for tomorrow. I hope everything is successful and you have a great recovery! Best wishes heart sister, Tammy

Like | 2 people like this

Joan Napier I will also pray for you tomorrow, Cristen. Please let us know your good news when you're feeling up to it.

On December 17, 2014...

Joey K. posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hi Cristen,

Oh my sweet friend. I'm sorry you're having to go through this. I truly love you so very much as a friend. I'll be thinking and praying about you in the upcoming days and weeks. You're strong and I know you'll overcome this obstacle. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.

Like | 1 person likes this

On December 17, 2014...

Jeff V. posted a note for Cristen that says:

Cristen - Good luck tomorrow and best wishes for a quick recovery! You will bounce back from this quicker than you think and I expect your experience in Cleveland will be awesome. Take care - Jeff V.

Like | Linda Crawford and 1 other likes this

On December 17, 2014...

Aljaz Britvic posted a note for Cristen that says:

Cristen, good luck with the surgery and get well soon!

Like | 1 person likes this

On December 17, 2014...

Verena (Germany) posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hey Cristen!
Probably my englisch is not good enough to tell you how much I care. I'm so sorry.
But I do.
So I know I'm really far away but I'm thinking of you. I would like to hug you right now. But I can't so I'm sending you all my love and all my prayers.
Thank you for this blog so even I, on the other side of the planet can follow your healing process.
Hugs and Kisses

Like | 1 person likes this

On December 16, 2014...

Lynne Jeffreys posted a note for Cristen that says:

I know you have been very busy preparing and just so you know we're all thinking of you. Lots of prayers.

Like | 2 people like this

On December 16, 2014...

tina fluhrer posted a note for Cristen that says:

Its been nice to see the loving notes to you from your friends. I am praying for you too as you prepare for your big day and healing journey. ~

Like | Michelle MisoKarrer, Cristen Marzula and 1 other likes this

On December 16, 2014...

Tegs posted a note for Cristen that says:

Sweet and Happy soul, You are SO LOVED. I've been thinking about camps together and how you have this special way of turning a dull dinner into a fun adventure. I know that the childlike joy we got out of things and your brilliant art history background that made conversation worth having will carry you through the time at the hospital and will transform the sanitized halls into a resort your staying at for just a little while :)

Thank you for having this online space for all of us to keep up with you. I'll be thinking of you Thursday, and every day.

Love and Light - Sat Nam

Like | 2 people like this

Cristen Marzula You're a very sweet and kind soul, Tegan = ) Thank you for your support.

On December 16, 2014...

Ron Shaw posted a note for Cristen that says:

My sweet co-worker and friend , I am lifting you up in prayer , stay strong and be encouraged , I know that if God brought you to it, he will bring you through it ! you are one of the most positive women I have ever met ,keep that beautiful smile and continue to trust the lord , God is a present help in times of trouble . see you when you get back to them M " Isaiah 41:10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Like | Cristen Marzula and 2 others like this

Cristen Marzula YOU'RE THE BEST, RON! Everyone at Varsity is very fortunate to have such a positive and encouraging friend. I can't thank you enough for the years of kindness ... Read more

Cristen Marzula YOU'RE THE BEST, RON! Everyone at Varsity is very fortunate to have such a positive and encouraging friend. I can't thank you enough for the years of kindness and support that you've shown toward me! XoXo

On December 15, 2014...

Colby posted a note for Cristen that says:

Cristen, I just want you to know I will be praying for a successful/perfect surgery and for your speedy recovery. It sounds like you are in great hands with love all around. Hang in there, I will definitely be looking for you back in the office once you are back on your feet //big hugs

Like | Cristen Marzula and 2 others like this

Cristen Marzula Thank you Colby for ALL your help getting me prepared to work from home. My little computer is a well-oiled machine. Your prayers are GREATLY appreciated!

On December 14, 2014...

Ryan posted a note for Cristen that says:

The Salsgivers will certainly be thinking of you and we will possibly be able to visit you while we are in Cleveland. Good luck

Like | Cristen Marzula and 1 other likes this

Cristen Marzula Wooooo-hooo! A visit from the Givers would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks Ryan & Elizabeth

On December 14, 2014...

Amy DiGiovanni Noack posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hi Cristen! My prayers are with you for a speedy recover. I noticed you are in your 30's as well...I have a very similar heart condition and will be undergoing surgery in January. I am wondering what type of valve replacement you chose and why...all the best to you:)

Like | 1 person likes this

Cristen Marzula Hi Amy, my new fellow heart sister = ) Since I’m not a candidate for valve repair, my first choice was definitely a bioprosthetic valve replacement through ... Read more

Cristen Marzula Hi Amy, my new fellow heart sister = ) Since I’m not a candidate for valve repair, my first choice was definitely a bioprosthetic valve replacement through a minimally invasive procedure. I understand that the biological valve will eventually need replaced in 10-20 years; however, continued innovations in technology and medicine could potentially allow for procedures that aren't available at this time.

Dr. Roselli and I did discuss the pros and cons of the Ross procedure and mechanical valve replacement. I personally don’t like the idea of the Ross since it requires a two valve procedure (aortic and pulmonary) to solve a single valve issue. I also didn't like the mechanical valve option due to the required lifetime of anticoagulant medication.

I found the Cleveland Clinic’s website to be a valuable tool. Specifically, here is a link for understanding “Aortic Valve Surgery in the Young Adult Patient.”
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/heart/disorders/valvetreatment/youngvalve

Best of luck and well wishes for a successful surgery AND recovery!

Amy DiGiovanni Noack Thank-you for your feedback and the information! I'm still on the fence about Ross, and the more I read the more anxious I get about having to make this decision....sometimes I want to just put my head in the sand, but then I get light headed and I am reminded that this is a life saving surgery that we are fortunate to have available to us.
Your date is nearing and I send my positive vibes:) please keep us posted as I will be thinking about you and wish you a speedy recovery.

On December 13, 2014...

Teddy Gorman posted a note for Cristen that says:

Cristen-
Everyone at Stillwater is thinking about you and the loves of your life... here's wishing you a world of smiles before and after your procedure! We are with you! #ChargeOn

Like | Cristen Marzula and 1 other likes this

Cristen Marzula Thank you so much Ted & Nicole for your kind words and support! Luckily, my recovery coincides perfectly with Bowl Season ; )

On December 13, 2014...

Teddy Gorman posted a note for Cristen that says:

Cristen-
Everyone at Stillwater I'd thinking about you and the loves of your life... here's wishing you a world of smiles before and after your procedure! We are with you! #ChargeOn

Like | 1 person likes this

On December 13, 2014...

Melissa Dearfield posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hi there Sweety!
I am so glad you sent this email to me. It was very informative & I will follow your journal as time progresses. Us Dearfield's are cheering you on my dear & wish you the best of luck & a great recovery! This doctor sounds awesome! You are definitely in great hands.
You are in our thoughts & prayers as you undergo this Cristen.
You also have an awesome boyfriend(if I say so myself haha!) to be there by your side through this. As well as your wonderful family & friends.
God bless you sweety & I'll stay updated through this & Michael.
We Love you,
Melissa

Like | Adam Pick and 1 other likes this

Cristen Marzula I am very fortunate for such an AMAZING support group! Thank you for your kind words - it truly means the world to me. I must agree with you on the boyfriend ... Read more

Cristen Marzula I am very fortunate for such an AMAZING support group! Thank you for your kind words - it truly means the world to me. I must agree with you on the boyfriend ; ) I am blessed daily to have Michael's love! Soon enough, "Bearcat" will be back in action with the Dearfield Family! XoXo

On December 13, 2014...

KFun posted a note for Cristen that says:

Major prayers going your way, girl!! God is awesome and using this for GOOD! Just hang in there during it all! Love you!

Like | 2 people like this

Cristen Marzula Thank you so much Funston! I completely agree with you = ) I hope Bryant is on the "fast track" to recovery as well. XoXo

On December 13, 2014...

Jeff V. posted a note for Cristen that says:

Hi Cristen, I was just released from the Cleveland Clinic on 12/9 and had a great experience and result. I see that your surgery is coming up soon and thought I'd give you a shout out in case you wanted to read my journal as there may be some helpful info. Likewise, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask. Best of luck to you next week! Jeff V.

Like | 2 people like this

Cristen Marzula Hi Jeff! I actually came across your journal last week when your wife, Bridget was providing recovery updates. Upon further reading, I saw that your daughter ... Read more

Cristen Marzula Hi Jeff! I actually came across your journal last week when your wife, Bridget was providing recovery updates. Upon further reading, I saw that your daughter had a valve replacement at only 8 years old. What an incredible success story for Olivia! The recovery stories have been invaluable, especially from patients of the Cleveland Clinic. Thank you again for sharing your experience and well wishes. I admit that the past month has been both physically and emotionally challenging. The greatest relief is knowing that this surgery is taking place at the #1 cardiovascular center in the US - for that, we are all truly fortunate.

On December 13, 2014...

Bob M posted a note for Cristen that says:

Cristen, I pray that your procedure and recovery will be perfect! See you on the other side of heart surgery, heart sister. God bless and rise up! By the way, I have participated in 2 mission trips in Memphis staying at the Catholic High School downtown. My experience in Memphis was awesome!

Like | Bob M and 1 other likes this

Cristen Marzula Hi Bob! I think the Route of Santiago de Compostela would be an incredible feat to mark the success of surgery. This coming March will mark my 8th year in ... Read more

Cristen Marzula Hi Bob! I think the Route of Santiago de Compostela would be an incredible feat to mark the success of surgery. This coming March will mark my 8th year in Memphis. I do enjoy the urban culture of downtown, along with the history and character of the city. If you get the chance to return, "Memphis in May" is the best time to visit. Thank you for your words of encouragement! I wish you the very best on your road to recovery.

Bob M Cristen, actually, my son, father in law and mother in law will visit Memphis this summer. I will let them know about May. I pray that your surgery and recovery ... Read more

Bob M Cristen, actually, my son, father in law and mother in law will visit Memphis this summer. I will let them know about May. I pray that your surgery and recovery will be perfect. I am blessed that all went went well for me.

On December 11, 2014...

y2kfay@aol.com posted a note for Cristen that says:

I, too, was hesitant to share my story, which is similar to yours (BAV) and I will be creating a journal shortly, as my surgery for the Ross with Dr. Stelzer was just scheduled for the end of this month. Can I ask why you decided against the Ross, if it was an option for you, since you are young and athletic? It was the recommended procedure for me by everyone I spoke with, and I live right outside NYC so Dr. Stelzer and his expertise sold me on it, as well as the idea of living a life without need for blood thinners or reoperation. Thank you for posting your journal; I will be right behind you in surgery, and wishing you all the best.

Like | 2 people like this

Cristen Marzula First and foremost, I would definitely trust the knowledge and expertise of your thoracic surgeon and the recommendation that they provided for YOUR health ... Read more

Cristen Marzula First and foremost, I would definitely trust the knowledge and expertise of your thoracic surgeon and the recommendation that they provided for YOUR health scenario. Dr. Roselli and I briefly discussed the Ross procedure; however, he felt that the biological valve would be the best option for me. Personally, this surgery has been 30 years in the making - it's incredible where technology and medicine is now compared to 1984! In short, I'm comfortable and excited to see what my options will be in 10-20 years when the biological valve will need replaced; the current plan is a TAVR procedure when that time comes. I do wish you the very best as well with your surgery AND recovery!

Rob Wigley My thoughts exactly........meaning Cristen's response mirrors what I believe. The future surgical options will be far advanced from where they are now.

On December 4, 2014...

Welcome. We used to be neighbors, I was living in Germantown, TN but moved back to the northeast a couple of years ago. You are welcome to read my journal, I am 2 months post op and doing well, I had the same issues. Any questions, let me know.

Like | Adam Pick and 1 other likes this

Daniel Spurgeon I know that pre op is an anxious time, but before you know it you'll be on the other side. I had my aortic root replaced with a David procedure in late August ... Read more

Daniel Spurgeon I know that pre op is an anxious time, but before you know it you'll be on the other side. I had my aortic root replaced with a David procedure in late August and now I'm lifting weights again and bicycling in the mountains.

Melinda Hacker Christen, same here...you can read my journal to see how surgery went. I'm 6 weeks post op and doing great with my new bovine valve. I'm happy to answer any questions you have.

Jim Hernandez Welcome to our ♡ club... everyone here is fantastic and open with their situations to give you some comfort. ..

Cristen Marzula I must admit that I was at first very hesitant to share my story, but I already feel very THANKFUL for the initial outpouring of your support! I look forward ... Read more

Cristen Marzula I must admit that I was at first very hesitant to share my story, but I already feel very THANKFUL for the initial outpouring of your support! I look forward to reading ALL of your journals. Thank you in advance for the willingness to share your experiences.

Tammi Gunwall Welcome Cristen! You will find so much support, encouragement and strength from the heart family on this site. I too have a BAV with severe stenosis and my ... Read more

Tammi Gunwall Welcome Cristen! You will find so much support, encouragement and strength from the heart family on this site. I too have a BAV with severe stenosis and my surgery is scheduled for Jan. 7. Thank you for sharing your story with all of us. :)