Lisa's Profile

My condition is aortic stenosis as well as a bicuspid aorta valve. I have known about my condition since I was born. Over the years I have been monitored with cardiology appointments annually. At age 60 now I am beginning to have symptoms, shortness of breath and palpitations. At first I thought it was anxiety (I have general anxiety disorder) as well as other physical conditions such as ulcerative colitis. I located a surgeon and requested my family physician refer me. One week later the surgeons office called and I booked an appointment. My intention was to find out what the next step would be. As I already have extreme anxiety disorder I thought it might help ease the anxiety if I knew what was really happening and what my options would be.. There has been a lot of research on my part, reading everything I could get my hands on and the one thing I found out was the internet is a scary place (adding to my anxiety) . One thing I did learn that was helpful was stick to research on the Mayo Clinic. :) I read everything I could to learn about the TAVI artificial valve. It appeared to be a less evasive procedure so with that info on hand I went to my surgeon to discuss. As it turned out, I was not a candidate for the TAVI valve due to my colitis. The TAVI valve would require blood thinners which I cannot be on. A bit of a disappointment to say the least..as I discussed the options with the surgeon we decided the best valve for me would be a bovine (cow) valve. With the surgeons information, I booked a follow-up appointment form6 months later and went home to discussed this info with family. In addition, if my symptoms changed I was to call the surgeon right away for an earlier assessment ... Six months passed without change and at this point I was prepared to move forward in 6 month time with the surgery. As advised by the surgeon it's best to do the surgery while I am strong and healthy than to wait for a crisis, agreed with the plan for surgery in January 2020. All required tests and pre-admission done, healthy and prepared now, waiting is definitely not as easy as I thought it would be but I am committed to the plan. Surgery date now confirmed for January 13, 2020. Now it feels real.