Steven's Guestbook

Thanks for the update. Glad you were able to enjoy some warm Florida sunshine!  We, your family, are cheering you on every step of the way! God's got you - He brought you to it and He will get you through it. Praying for you, little bro. ❤️

Steven,
The best to you as you head for surgery May 23rd.Imagine the knowing you're doing 
this to move ahead will bring life a new healthy focus on your destination!
Take care heart Brother!

Thanks for the update. You know your big sis needs to know all about it....We, your family, are here for you, cheering you on every step of the way! Proud of your progress so far. You CAN do ALL things through Christ who strengthens you! We love you! 

Steven, with catheters, you will be amazed how easy it will be.  It is scary to think about.  But try to focus on the other side.  I had the big surgery, full open heart.  I had full confidence in my doctor..at Cleveland Clinic..They were totally honest with me.  I wanted to know the worst and best of what to expect. I got honest answers. For me, it amazingly was not real painful at all.  The biggest issue was being weak and tired for awhile. They explained that if I just follow directions for exercise, and diet, and rest when needed, in time I will be better, way better than when I went in. All of that is true.  Focus on how well you will be when you go back to golf. It is really worth it..Honestly, I have never regretted my surgery which is bigger than  doing catheter surgery... Ask your doctor exactly what to expect. I had no surprises, and just kept focusing on the future, where I am now.   Now adays heart surgery in most cases is very routine, and very few have any complications. Best of luck to you!  You will be so happy when you know you are healthy, with no valve issues.

I love you!!! I’m sorry you’re going through this ☹️ Thanks for starting this journal and keeping us updated! I’m here for whatever you need, whenever. You have a huge support system behind you. If you need some Gussy cuddles you just let me know! Stay positive and know you have a lot of prayers being sent your way ❤️ ❤️ 

Welcome Steven. I am also in the process of moving to surgery. I have been finding a lot of great information, as well as, wonderful fellow heart warriors to share my journey.

Hi Steven! 

Glad you found this site, I think it'll be helpful to you. I'm celebrating my 8th anniversary with my On-X valve. I haven't had any problems/complications. I was 42 when I got it, and was diagnosed with BAV when I was 32. I didn't have any aorta issues, but they do run in my family.

I think the best way to get the most out of this site is to ask questions. A lot of questions.

My biggest recommendation for recovery is owning at least 1 travel pillow, so you can sleep in a recliner and not have to worry about holding your head up.

Welcome again, and good luck!

Meredith
Oak Ridge, TN

Hi Steve,

  I also have a BAVD. I just found out about mine at 49. My acending aorta is also enlarged to 4.8 cm. 

    I was told by my Doctor, at 51, that a On X Mechanical Valve would be my best bet, as they should last 25+ years and the INR level (Warfrin) can be a lot less. 

He informed me, a Bio Valve, (Cow or pig) last on average 7 to 12 years, depending on your age and fitness level. So i would need 2 or 3 more surgerys, with a pig or cow Valve. But no blood thinners....if all goes well. Some people end up on blood thinners with a Bio valve also. 

 What bio valve did they tell you would last 15 to 20 years. I like to know so i can look into it.

Thanks Steve