Rob's Profile

I am a 48-year-old husband, father of four, and pastor from Maine. I have over the years had quite an health transformation loosing well over 100 pounds. Now I always tried to stay active, including regular strength training, so learning that I had severe aortic stenosis caused by a bicuspid aortic valve came as quite a surprise. As the condition progressed, I began experiencing shortness of breath during cardio exercise, occasional chest discomfort, ankle swelling, and a couple of near-fainting episodes on the treadmill. After further testing, my cardiologist explained that valve surgery should not be delayed. I recently met with my cardiac surgeon, and we are planning a Ross procedure. My surgeon is the only one currently performing the Ross procedure in Maine and regularly handles complex cardiac surgeries. My preoperative heart catheterization showed no coronary blockages, which was very encouraging. I am now completing the remaining testing and preparing for surgery. This journey has brought plenty of questions and some anxiety—especially for my wife and children—but it has also strengthened our faith and reminded us how much support we have from our family, church, and friends. I joined this community to learn from others who have walked this road, share my own experience, and hopefully encourage someone else along the way.