About Me (In My Own Words)
I was shocked when I was diagnosed with severe aorta valve regurgitation. I am only 44 years old and I have always been healthy. I began scouring the internet for any knowledge in regards to my condition.
Most of what I found online had been all doom and gloom but I finally stumbled on a YouTube video with Dr.Chikwe from Cedar-Sinai. That video gave me hope. Dr.Chikwe seemed so knowledgeable and she had a kindness about her that came out even through video. Thus, when my local cardiologist asked where I would like to be referred for surgery I remembered that video and asked to be sent to Cedar-Sinai.
I prayed a lot after that. In my prayers I would ask God that the doctor assigned to me would be like Dr. Chikwe. A few weeks later I got a call that Dr.Chikwe would be my heart surgeon.
Fast forward to the day of my surgery. Saying I was scared is an understatement but the entire team at Cedar was amazing. From the very first encounter with the nurses in pre op to the anesthesia team; everyone was so kind and helped to put me at ease. During surgery the team kept my family up to date with what was happening. We couldn’t have asked for a better team or surgical experience.
During recovery at Cedar I had so many amazing nurses care for me. Nurses Kevin, Ashton, and Jessica in ICU were so kind and helped to make me so comfortable. They took the time to reassure me when I needed it and we’re on top of all my needs. I recovered quickly and was at home by day 5.
Today I had my final appointment with Dr.Chikwe and team. I can’t say enough good things about this team. From the surgical team to the office team where I had the pleasure of getting to know Mary, who’s super helpful and the Vivianne who lights up the room and brings a smile to your face! The entire team really builds relationships with their patients and is amazing.
I am so thankful for Dr. Chikwe and her entire team!!
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Visalia, California
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My surgery date is:
August 9, 2022
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I was diagnosed with:
Aortic Regurgitation
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My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Replacement
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