Lydia's Guestbook

I had the same problem with the mitral valve (regurgitation) and shortness of breath (AFib). I am so glad I was able to have the surgery. I had this problem all my life. Good luck!

I was 57 when I had my open heart surgery two years ago to replace a leaky aortic valve and my ascending aorta. Be patient. Allow yourself to heal. Walk, walk, walk. Sleep on your back. You will be fine.

I'm in Tucson and had my mitral valve repaired in October 2016 at the age of 62. I, too, travelled out of town to have my surgery. I was fortunate to be able to have minimally-invasive robotic surgery at Cleveland Clinic. I did have to travel by myself through O'Hare on my way back, which is a nightmare airport. Make sure they help you! Will you have someone travelling with you?

Wishing you well in your Mitral Valve surgery, I lived in Las Cruces many years but now am in Santa Teresa New Mexico. I am going through test at this time for Aortic Stenosis, hoping to be cleared for Taver surgery. Will be thinking and praying for your successful surgery and recovery.

Lydia, I know this is pretty scary. I would be scared also. It is a big deal. But I just checked out your surgeon. I am so happy to know he is the best doctor you could possibly have. I'm not sure how you've been dealing with your allergies so far but talk to your doctor(s) in Las Cruces about your concerns before you head out to Chicago. Also, write out your thoughts and worries and happy thoughts. Like do diary entries. Don't worry about this being too much about you. Anyone who knows you knows otherwise. But right now, this is the time you do need to think about you, with your goal being to get better and feeling healthy again. Your friends and family love you, and we all want that for you.

Hi Lydia welcome to our community. Being nervous about surgery is totally understandable but I am glad to read your positive attitude to look forward to feeling better. May your surgery be successful and keep us updated on your journey. God bless you