Miriam's Profile

I was in the hospital in February with viral pneumonia; while there, my attending physician ordered an electrocardiogram. He asked me if I knew I had a heart murmur and if I ever had rheumatic fever. I said no to both. Then he told me he was referring me to a cardiologist, that I had a mitral valve that needed immediate attention, but I had to recover first from the viral pneumonia. I was coughing and feeling very tired; my oxygen level was low. Once I got over the pneumonia, I went to the cardiologist who checked me over and referred me to another heart doctor who conducted a cardiac catheterization procedure which confirmed I needed a mitral valve replacement. That began my roller coaster ride. My children, who live in Oregon, helped me research doctors & hospitals and any and all information about heart surgery. I met Adam Pick through his book and website. Although I am from Acoma, New Mexico, I chose to have my surgery done by Dr. Thomas Molloy at Adventist Health Portland, Oregon, after having a one-on-one consultation. Initially I was scheduled for surgery on July 11, but labs & tests showed I was not ready. My new date is Aug 9 and things are beginning to happen in preparation. I am a 78-year old mother and grandmother. I have days when I am fearful and other times I tell myself I have no choice if I want to live longer. Only my Creator knows. I am grateful for everyone's help for helping me understand and learn about my heart. I am grateful to my family; they give me hope as well as their love & support.