About Me (In My Own Words)
My leaky tricuspid valve was discovered in 2004 when I survived a catastrophic car accident. After 10 years of followed care and 4 healthy babies, it was determined that it was time to fix the valve. So at 34 years of age and with 4 children under 7, I underwent tricuspid repair, Kevlar chordai & an annular ring. This was my 2nd sternotomy, which made the procedure a tad more complicated than a first timer.
By the grace of God, the surgery went as perfectly as it could have gone. After 5 days in Erlanger hospital, I headed home to my boys and my new life.
I'm closing in on 6 weeks post op. I've recently been cleared to drive and begin cardiac rehab. Regaining strength & energy has been a slow process, but pain has been manageable and help has been immeasurable.
This experience has taught me to appreciate the little things and that all of the "stuff" that plagues normal life is really just stuff and is irrelevant to what truly matters. Being surrounded by love & support and covered in prayers really does sustain you.
After another 6 weeks on warfarin, I should be able to discontinue that therapy & monitoring. My only abnormal symptom is an elevated heart rate. I wasn't prescribed a beta blocker upon discharge due to blood pressure concerns. My blood pressure runs a little low normally. I've been afforded the opportunity to let my fixed heart find its new normal naturally.
As ready as I am for life to get back to normal, it is my hope to remain in this season of appreciation and thankfulness.
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Henagar, Alabama
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My surgery date is:
June 5, 2015
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I was diagnosed with:
Tricuspid Regurgitation
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My surgery was:
Tricuspid Valve Repair
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My surgeon is:
Dr. James Zellner
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My hospital is:
Erlanger
