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Melissa's Profile

Diagnosis: Aortic Aneurysm, Aortic Regurgitation, Aortic Stenosis, Bicuspid Aortic Valve

Member Since: March 16, 2026

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About Me

Hi all! I was born with a bicuspid aortic valve that was moderate my entire life. I never let this slow me down until about a year ago when I started dancing Salsa and Bachata, taking Pilates/yoga classes and started noticing more and more symptoms that were limiting me. Turns out my valve was severely stenotic and surgery was strongly recommended. I chose to proceed with the Ross procedure to avoid taking blood thinners with such an active lifestyle, and as of July 7th, 2026, I am a Ross warrior. Can't wait to connect with you all 🙂

I am from: Huntington Beach, California, United States
My surgery date was: April 9, 2026
I was diagnosed with: Aortic Aneurysm, Aortic Regurgitation, Aortic Stenosis, Bicuspid Aortic Valve
My surgery was: Aortic Aneurysm Replacement, Ross Procedure
My surgeon is: Dr. Richard Shemin
My hospital is: UCLA Health