Chuck's Profile

It's time. . . Back in 1982, during a routine physical for high school sports, my doctor heard a heart murmur. He sent me to a cardiologist who diagnosed a bicuspid aortic valve. He said there was some slight leakage and that I'd probably need a valve job by the time I was 50. Well, I'm 6 years early, but still not a bad prediction made when I was 14. I have a fantastic cardiologist, Dr. Marlene Blaise, who has been watching over me for 10 years now. Over the last year, my ascending aorta has dilated past the allowable size. That is the determining factor in this surgery. However with the large amount of regurgitation, I've also had a significantly reduced stamina over the years. As much as I don't like the idea of being cut open, I'm really looking forward to having an efficient heart for the first time in probably 15 or so years. While I have trouble keeping up with others my age, and especially my 6 year old son for now, I'm going to be much stronger on the other side of this adventure. When this is done, keep up with me if you can! ;)