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

Upcoming Surgeries

Nancy Keshishian
Mitral Regurgitation
October 6, 2026
Seth McMullen
Aortic Regurgitation
October 6, 2026
Lori Williams
Mitral Regurgitation
October 12, 2026

Surgeon Spotlight

Dr. Joel Corvera is a world-renowned heart valve surgeon that has performed thousands of heart valve operations.

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Heart Hospital Map

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