Garrett's Journal

Almost the full 2 years post op, and am having alot of discomfort and random sharp deep pain in the center of my sternum when i say pull heavy things like doors or wrenches... is this what a non union feels like or is it wires?

So my question is this.. i was born with a bicuspid aortic valve, my surgeon discussed mechanical valve with me but if the opportunity to repair my own valve was given to try that first, anyways my question is what is the life expectancy of a repaird human valve vs a mechanical? Will i require a surgery in the next 10 yrs with my own valve?

Anyone experience heart beating closer to the chest wall while deep breathing after a sternotomy and if so does it go away? It feels like anxiety atack but its just my heart beating throughout my entire chest when i take a deep breath... never used to be like this before sternotomy.

Time has gone by fast, nov 9 was officially 1 year since i was cracked open... the first 6 months was hell honestly  between the physical  pain 😫 and the mental  fog from being on pump i still have memory  issues  occasionally but here is to another year 

discharged nov 14 2022 6 months of recovery and gym time, walking track and biking working to get over 100 km goal. Felt great
Present day- I am currently back to work not the same physical demand but work no less, i am active taking my black lab for walks (somthing i took for granted) and i generally feel great. however Recently i had symptoms of a minor stroke and some eye issues that were a problem after waking up from surgery but since resurfaced and go some depression in regards to new limitations and my scar. Moving forward in life scares me alot more today then it did before my surgery because i have so many hurdles my way with marfans syndrome that most people cant grasp or appreciate and will never truly understand.. the anticipated likelihood i will need further surgeries of my aorta, valves and heart as i age is my new biggest fear... as i have seen first hand what my father struggles with his disection and the need for a mechanical valve all of what i dont ever want to go through... my surgery was the hardest thing i have ever had to face and i went into it with peace of mind but now, my mind isnt at peace knowing i may have to be opened up multiple times... Re living  that feeling  of disorientation fading in and out of consciousness after waking up  from surgery and the pain....

 yet i want more than  anything  the sternotomy wires in my chest removed as they cause so much discomfort...