Paul's Profile

I am 37 years old, married to a wonderful wife, Sara, and dad to 2 boys, William age 9 and Andrew, almost 7. I enjoy many outdoor activities, sports and home improvement projects. I was diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve at the age of 18 after having a stroke. At that point, I was told I would need surgery in the future. I went on with life as normal, swimming on the varsity swim team and pitching for the varsity baseball team at Penn State University. Then, in 2002, I was told my heart had enlarged and it was time for surgery. I had a Ross Procedure in Danville, PA with Dr. Christian Gilbert. Now, 12 years later, I have an aortic aneurism and may need a Ross Reversal (depending upon how my valve looks to Dr. Pettersson in surgery). He recommends a mechanical valve, but I am hesitant due to my active lifestyle.