About Me (In My Own Words)
Less than 2 years ago a doctor casually asked me, "How long have you had that heart murmur?" Tomorrow it will be exactly 4 weeks since my aortic valve replacement. Whew. A lot can change in a short time.
I was shocked at how quickly my valve went from "mild leak" to "severe stenosis". Being an active, healthy woman in my early 60s, I didn't think my symptoms were significant. I had some shortness of breath and occasional "pressure" across my chest. I just attributed it to aging. I was on no meds, exercised regularly, and generally felt great.
My yearly echocardiogram was scheduled for early August. My husband and I were all excited about our late September dream vacation to Greece. My echo showed my valve was significantly worse, and because that caused me concerns about traveling, my cardiologist did a stress test. I failed. Big time. Not only did I need to cancel the trip, I needed to schedule surgery.
Just a few weeks later I had open-heart surgery and received my new Magna Ease cow tissue replacement valve. My surgeon, Dr. Park, head of cardiology at University Hospital in Cleveland, was able to do a mini-sternotomy, so my incision is only about 4 inches long.
I got released from the hospital after 4 days. The first 2 weeks at home weren't too much fun. Pain, exhaustion, etc. but I've made good progress and I feel much better now. Tomorrow is the 4-week mark. I walk about 1.5 miles outside every day and I'm hoping I'll be able to drive after I see the surgeon next week.
I am so grateful I was able to catch this before it was too late. I know I am lucky to be alive.
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Hudson, Ohio
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My surgery date is:
August 26, 2016
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I was diagnosed with:
Aortic Stenosis
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My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Replacement
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My surgeon is:
Dr. Soon Park
