Peter's Guestbook

Peter, I just read you're story and we sound very similar. I too have a bicuspid aortic valve and will be getting it replaced Thursday as well as repairing my aorta. I've known about it since I was old enough to understand and the time has come. I can look at you're story and only pray for a similar path. Thanks for posting!

Best wishes on your surgery. May each physician and nurse know exactly what to do and say. I pray for a speedy recovery for you. May your family feel comfort.

Peter, best of luck in your surgery. Your journal resonated with me; we have a lot of similarities - our aortic stenosis and pre-surgical gradient (high - 70 - 80), profession (attorney); and outlook in general, I think. I also played sports against my doctor's orders as a teen and through 20s, 30s and into my 40s, running 5Ks through marathons, and it turns out it was good I did, and the protocol has now changed to allow children to play sports with this condition. One thing I can advise - I was glad I kept a journal before surgery and during my recovery, to recall the things I value most and to remember the discomforts and overcoming them, day by day. Trust in yourself, your decisions, and your progress, and reach out when you need to. Everyone's recovery is different, but the body really does have an amazing ability to heal itself. You have the best medical attention available, and I know I still feel grateful for how lucky I was for that. All my best for a healthy and healing 2016 to you (and your family).

Hi Peter, As a caregiver to my late wife( she had multiple open heart surgeries). She also had both tissue and mechanical valves. Warfarin was always a challenge, since it required constant monitoring. You are a young man, and possibly having a tissue valve, thus avoiding blood thinners, might be a good idea for now. All I ask of you is to pray to God for direction, and put all your trust in Him. He knows what you need. God is in complete control, and has you in the palm of His hand. I will keep you in my daily prayer.

hi Peter....sending positive thoughts and prayers your way as you prepare for your upcoming surgery. I had my mitral valve repaired on November 11 at Cleveland Clinic. I am very pleased with the outcome thus far and care I received while I was there. They were also very good about accommodating my husband as well! Blessings to you!

Hey Peter- Saw your note on alcohol consumption. I mainly stick to beer and rarely have drinks Monday through Friday but will have the occasional beer or two at night. On the weekends, I'll drink 3-6 while watching football on either Saturday or Sunday. My weekly average is about 8-10 beers a week. I haven't had any problems maintaining a consistent INR. A few times I've let loose a bit and had a few shots/extra beers.. again no problems. Alcohol consumption was my biggest concern with warfarin too but after speaking to some friends who are Pharmacists, it's not a concern for younger patients as long as you keep it consistent. Additionally, the concern with alcohol and warfarin is putting yourself in an intoxicated state and running the risk of falling and bleeding. I drink in moderation so this hasn't been an issue for me.