About Me (In My Own Words)
In my early 20s, I had a gum graft get infected and developed endocarditis, which damaged several of my heart valves. I'm in my 60s now, so was able to hold off on surgical intervention for quite awhile.
My valves got worse during covid, but I didn't see a doctor in person for quite awhile. My primary care doctor wanted a new Echocardiogram done, once he listened to my heart again, in person. Dr Rose Freeman at UW read my echo, and personally called me that day to discuss additional testing. It was amazing to have her call me like that.
However, I ended up going to Cedars Sinai (Los Angeles) with Dr Chikwe. They had the best outcome stats on the West Coast, and fortunately, it was in network with my insurance.
I have not been able to do cardiac rehab so far, as our local program closed. We don't have an online option at this time. I'm hoping to travel to the Seattle area for cardiac rehab this summer (depending on what's happening with covid).
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Juneau
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My surgery date is:
July 27, 2021
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I was diagnosed with:
Mitral Regurgitation
Tricuspid Regurgitation
Atrial Fibrillation
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My surgery was:
Mitral Valve Repair
Tricuspid Valve Repair
Maze Procedure
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My surgeon is:
Dr. Dr Joanna Chikwe
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