On November 3, 2022...
Ruth joy posted a note for Adam that says:
On November 3, 2022...
Greg Lewis posted a note for Adam that says:
Hey Adam. Just finished reading your article on pumphead. It was very interesting. I had major anxiety for about 8 months. It was bad. Wasnt sure if i would miss Christmas. Didnt like to be around people. Even family. Also i could NOT watch a TV, couldnt even look at it a little bit, it drove my anxiety through the roof. Ever heard of the TV thing before? I was told it was all due to the anasthetic, because i had to have so much of it. Which i accepted, until i read about pumphead. Very interesting, all the things that can also come with a heart surgery.
Adam Pick  Thanks for letting me know about that TV issue Greg. I have not heard of that before. Hope you are d ... Read more
Greg Lewis  Oh ya, much better!! Its been a rough year, but i think the end is in sight! You know, i would encou ... Read more
On October 27, 2022...
Andrew Dial posted a note for Adam that says:
Hey Adam. Is there ever an annual meetup of all these wonderful people? Like a meet and greet kind of thing? Would be really fun, being that we all have this amazing thing in common. -Andy
Klara Čičić  Great question, Andrew! That would be so wonderful.
Adam Pick  Hey Andy, Wow! What a great idea. It would be wonderful to get everybody together in person. 

I hav... Read more
Susan Lynn  I'm totally in!!
On October 27, 2022...
Earl Brigham posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam - Your site is wonderful.  Thank you so much!

Can you tell me how the hospitals that you list in your Heart Hospitals section are chosen? Are they ones that have contacted you and paid to be listed?  Are they hospitals that are nationally ranked by some organization?  I'm just curious to understand why those have been identified.

Adam Pick  Great to hear you are enjoying the website Earl!  I loved learning about your experience with Paul at UW Medicine.  After I saw that, I sent Paul a note thanking him for his support of you.  I also loved seeing Andy jump into the conversation to help out!!!

Yes, the hospitals in the Heart Hospitals section are our sponsors. Before the hospitals become sponsors, we meet with each hospital to learn more about their medical teams and their dedication to heart valve therapy.  Each hospital is also required to complete a questionnaire so that we better understand their commitment to heart valve therapy.

So you know, this is all done organically.  We have no sales team or business development groups.  We're basically a "mom and pop" minus the "mom".   So far, this approach has proved advantageous for our patient community as we get to know and work with leading cardiologists, surgeons and hospitals that specialize in heart valve disease therapy. 
... Read more
Greg Lewis  Full agreement, Earl! .. Adam, I am very glad i became a part of this! You and the site are appreciat ... Read more
Rose Madura  Earl, that was a very good question. BTW, I think that this site is perfect just the way it is. My ... Read more
Adam Pick  Greg and Rose, Thanks so much for the very kind words about this website!!! This just got my weekend... Read more
On October 27, 2022...
Patricia Garner posted a note for Adam that says:
Thank You again Adam ,  Sharing with others who do understand means so much.  Just the action of others answering in our community when we post is encouraging.  I am Thankful and I wanted to say it directly your making a difference.  Patricia
On October 26, 2022...
Kimberly Eisenhut posted a note for Adam that says:
Hello,

I am not sure what is happening, but the past few days, the journal portion is not loading, it is just blank for everyone.

Hope you have a wonderful day, and thank you again for this site and the advocacy you have created to help us all!

Blessings,

Kim
Adam Pick  Hi Kimberly, Thanks for letting me know. We are fixing this right now. So sorry about that! 
Adam Pick  Quick update: This issue should be fixed. If you still experience an issue with the Journal, please ... Read more
On October 13, 2022...
Ruth joy posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam ,
Wonderful news !!!
I hope you ‘re all celebrating the fabulous news!!!
Adam Pick   Oh yes Ruth!!! My wife, son and I will be celebrating tonight!!! 

Each year, I "knock on wood" and... Read more
Great news! Dr. Vaughn Starnes just received his 100th patient testimonial at HeartValveSurgery.com!
On October 9, 2022...
Ruth joy posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam Pick  I agree Ruth...
On October 3, 2022...
Ruth joy posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam , that is wonderful  !!!
Adam Pick  Thanks Ruth!!!
On September 27, 2022...
Patsy Stewart posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam, first of all, your website is such a blessing to me. I absolutely love checking in and reading all of the support everyone shares with one another. It’s so important to know that you have others in similar situations cheering you on and that they’re truly there for you. I also am impressed with all of the information you provide. It’s so helpful! 
I’m having trouble with my profile picture that shows who I am. It’s not me. Just out of the blue, it changes to another person on the website.  I’ve changed it before, but thought I’d mention it in case it’s happening to someone else. Thank you! 
Adam Pick  Hi Patsy, I'm so glad to hear you are enjoying the educational information and the wonderful people ... Read more
Patsy Stewart  I have had it happen twice now. I do not sign out of the website. I stay signed in all the time. I ... Read more
On September 8, 2022...
John B. posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam - I had aortic valve replacement surgery approximately 3 1/2 years ago and fortunately am doing well since. I had the opportunity to read your book prior to surgery and found it very informative. I have followed your site since then but have never recorded a personal history. I am sure there are others like myself and I’m sure we all hope you keep up the great work. 
Adam Pick  Many, many, many thanks for the kind words John. You just made my day!
On September 1, 2022...
Jose Maqueda posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam I recently got my Ross procedure in mount Sinai about 1.5 months ago by Dr Ismail El -hamamsy I want to say thank you for all the hard work you do to bring awareness to the Ross procedure / and for helping me find Dr El-Hamamsy if it wasn't for your page / videos I would of never had my Ross / as tx doesn't perform them and it's a risky surgery thank you !
Adam Pick  Hi Jose, This just made my day! Thanks so much for these very kind words. I'm so happy to learn that... Read more
On September 1, 2022...
Ruth joy posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi adam ,
I hope you ‘re okay . You ‘ve been very busy
Adam Pick  Thanks for noticing Ruth!!! Yes, I have been doing my best to help all the wonderful patients in our... Read more
On June 10, 2022...
Erik W. posted a note for Adam that says:
Hey Adam thanks again for posting the video from Dr. Allan Stewart on MI procedures for aneurysm and valve replacement.  Would be great if you could also get Dr. Lamelas and/or Dr. Doolabh to do a video with you on their MI approaches and experiences to help get more information out there in the patient community on the evolving area of MI procedures.
Adam Pick  Hey Erik... Ask and ye shall receive....  https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/videos/minimally-inva... Read more
Go inside an actual operating room during the minimally-invasive aortic valve replacement surgery performed by Dr. Neelan Doolabh.
Erik W.  Thanks!
Adam Pick  No problem!
On June 9, 2022...
Ruth joy posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi adam ,
You started supporting people like us , because you knew there was a need for it , you have lived it .
It's a pleasure and this wonderful community has grown because of you
Adam Pick  Ruth, So very, very, very sweet. You just made my day!!! Thanks so much for being such a wonderful ... Read more
On June 7, 2022...
Yvonne Deane posted a note for Adam that says:
Thank you so much Adam! This website and all of the information herein has been a lifesaver! The connections we're all making because of your dedication is invaluable. My heartfelt gratitude to you!
On May 8, 2022...
Ruth joy posted a note for Adam that says:
That ‘s a very lovely photo Adam  .
 Your mum must be very proud of you !
Adam Pick  Thanks so much Ruth! And... Thanks for your amazing support of all the patients in our community!!!... Read more
On April 6, 2022...
Dan Rhoden posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam, hope all is well. I wanted to post a review on Dr. Gerdisch from my OHS on March 28. I've poked around and haven't found where that can be done.

Thank you

FYI - day 9 with new aortic valve and ascending aorta and doing well. A bit better every day

On April 5, 2022...
Ruth joy posted a note for Adam that says:

The updates are really clear and easy to use .
thanks adam
Adam Pick  Great Ruth!!! So glad you like the new updates!
On April 2, 2022...
Merle Wildschut posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam I had st Jude valves replacements 17years ago.was the aortic and mitral valve.

I am going on well to 63 yrs.
I am From south africa

Merle

I am on warfarin and,so far so good.






Adam Pick  Great to hear Merle!!! So happy you have had a wonderful, 17-year success with the St. Jude mechanic... Read more
On March 31, 2022...
Joan gojkovich ventura posted a note for Adam that says:
Wonderful! I always wonder how long the aortic valve will last and no one really has the answer. Unless you do! 2010 was my aortic value replacement done at CMH in ventura by doctor Tedesco, who now is retired. He was great 




Deb Fisher  Adam which valve did you get? I am 62 and don’t want to be on blood thinners.
On March 30, 2022...
Ruth joy posted a note for Adam that says:
Bodie is gorgeous  .
Our , Rossie has his humans very well trained , I ‘m sure bodie will too !
On February 8, 2022...
Else Reed posted a note for Adam that says:
Thanks for maintaining this great site, Adam! Very grateful!
Adam Pick  Hi Else, Wow! Such a kind and wonderful post. Thanks so much!!! Fyi, there really is no need to thank ... Read more
On February 8, 2022...
Dan Rhoden posted a note for Adam that says:
Greetings Adam, posted this on my journal hoping to get resolved, no luck.

There was an "upcoming surgery schedule" on my news feed. I don't see it now, scrolled down a lot thinking it was hidden down below other posts.

Anyone know why? How to get it back? I'm thinking I may have deleted somehow, can't find a way to restore. I find it a good tool to support fellow patients on their upcoming surgery.

Thanks in advance for any assistance.

Dan Rhoden
Adam Pick  Hi Dan, Thanks for your note. Hmmmm. I just checked the system and each of the different viewports - ... Read more
Dan Rhoden  It was on the patient news feed, I did get a response from another patient that there's an "x" in the ... Read more
Dan Rhoden  Greetings Adam, had an opportunity to find out anything about this? Have yet to find a way to add it ... Read more
On February 3, 2022...
Dan Baltazor posted a note for Adam that says:
"Baby Aspirin After Heart Valve Surgery: What Should You Know?"
Thank You so much Adam for this information in the recent newsletter. I have been struggling
with GI issues due to the aspirin. I made the switch a month ago to the new Vazalore aspirin therapy designed to alleviate GI issues and it has helped, but I still remain with the question of taking this daily. I have an upcoming Drs appointment to discuss this exact topic, so your newsletter is timely and offers me more knowledge. Thank you for always advocating and giving breakthrough new information!!
Adam Pick  You just made my day Dan! Thanks for the very, very, very kind words. I am so happy that Dr. Gerdisch ... Read more
Learn important facts about the use of Baby Aspirin for patients who have undergone heart surgery for valve disease and aortic aneurysms from Dr. Marc Gerdisch
  Adam, thank you for sharing this very important information. I had a TIA in 2009 and was prescribed t ... Read more
Rob Sparling  Adam, thank you so much for everything you do every day. It matters. You know how strongly I feel ab ... Read more
Rob Sparling  Dan, sorry to hear about your discomfort. Smart to look for tweaks and novel solutions. Things change ... Read more
On December 5, 2021...
Timothy Stoner posted a note for Adam that says:
Hy Adam,
First off thanks for creating this very educational site. Secondly, I'm planning on having an 0n-x valve put in Wednesday (12/8/21). I'm happy your site opened my eyes to the Ross Procedure as I never heard of this before yesterday. I love science and understand how important it is to use our own valves/tissues. I'm 39 years old and have a very active lifestyle until a week ago when I started to experience dizzy spells. I know time is of the essence now with me but I do have a little more time and can put off surgery. The closest Ross specialist listed on your site is in North Carolina. What would you do if you were in my shoes? Thanks for your expertise. Tim
Adam Pick  Hey Thomas, If you are interested in the Ross Procedure, I would do everything you can to learn more ... Read more
https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - For patients with aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation and bicuspid aortic valves, the Ross Procedure provides many p...
Adam Pick  https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/surgeons/dr-Paul-Stelzer-New+York-New%20York.php
Adam Pick  https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/surgeons/dr-Ismail-El-Hamamsy-New+York+City-New%20York.php
On September 2, 2021...
Michael Brosnan posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam, thank you for welcoming me! I read your book in one sitting and I truly thank you for being such an inspiration and for being so giving. I have know about my valve problem for 30 years and it has deteriorated over time. Have an echo on the 13th and then visit the cardiologist on the 22nd. I am in the severe category now and I know it's just a matter of time for surgery. What gives me peace is that I now know I am not alone. Thank you for all the great info. If you or anyone knows of a great surgeon in san antonio I would appreciate that too. All the best! Mike
Adam Pick  Michael, No need to than me.... THANK YOU and everybody here for being such great members of this spe ... Read more
On September 1, 2021...
Jesse Althen posted a note for Adam that says:
Hello Adam, and thanks again for all the wonderful information and establishing this website and community for everyone dealing with heart value replacement and all the various stages and items to get through.

I have read alot of your journals but I must have missed the story that explains how you arrived at your decision to go with the Ross procedure versus all the other possible options. Is there any way we could have a short phone call sometime.

Jesse Althen
636-667-2910
Adam Pick  Hi Jesse! Sure thing. I'll give you a call later today. In the meantime, you might want to review thi ... Read more
Get advice from a patient about the advantages that should be considered prior to the Ross Procedure due to aortic valve disease.
Adam Pick  Also, have you watched our recent "Advantages of the Ross Procedure" webinar with Drs. Stelzer and El ... Read more
https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - For patients with aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation and bicuspid aortic valves, the Ross Procedure provides many p...
Adam Pick  Hey Jesse, I left you a message earlier today. When you get a chance, give me a ring back. Take care, ... Read more
Adam Pick  Hey Jesse, I left you a message earlier today. When you get a chance, give me a ring back. Take care, ... Read more
On August 27, 2021...
Jill Hughes posted a note for Adam that says:
I've been looking everywhere for information on life expectancy after open heart surgery and haven't had any luck. In 2019 I had an aortic valve repair and a mitral valve replacement after developing endocarditis as an effect of MRSA. All I can find is how long my biological valve is supposed to last, not how long I'm supposed to last. Can you point me in the right direction? BTW, your book has been very helpful!
Adam Pick  Hi Jill, I just posted this video with Dr. Chikwe. I'm hoping it might help you! https://www.youtube. ... Read more
https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - There is no doubt about it. Heart valve disease can be debilitating and life-threatening. Thankfully, there are several...
Jill Hughes  Thank you, Adam. I had AFib in the hospital after surgery, but it was treated so I don't expect to ha ... Read more
Richard Munson  Jill, i like the 3rd option better. A long fruitful life. Stay positive.
On June 26, 2021...
Jill Frey posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam, I just joined the group and your immediate welcome message along with the links you shared to help ease my anxiety were such a big help. Do you have any knowledge of Dr. Matthew Williams? He was referred to me by two other doctors but I have some reservations that are making this whole process even more stressful for me. He has done many TAVR procedures and TAVR research from what I gathered however there is NO doctor/ patient rapport. I certainly want the best plumber but also would like to be able to ask a question if I needed to. His NP is very knowledgable and does answer my questions. Am I expecting too much? I would hope he would come out after the procedure to let my husband and daughter know how it went but I am doubtful he will. Are you aware of anyone in this group who have used Dr. Williams? Should I be looking for another surgeon? I was told by people who cares if hes friendly as long as he knows the procedure well and I do agree with that but also feel a little bit of doctor patient rapport is important for someone with my high anxiety. Are there any surgeons who specialize with TAVR that you would recommend? This has been such a scary couple of months for me all I do is cry and worry about the upcoming procedure 24/7.
Kim McGee  I’m Back ! Had surgery to replace valve Thursday . Recovery is going welll
Adam Pick  Congrats Kim! That's great!!!
Adam Pick  Hey Jill, Glad to hear the videos helped you! Yes, I know Dr. Williams. Great guy and highly skilled ... Read more
Marie Myers  I would just like to comment that surgeons may have a great personality, but that does not necessaril ... Read more
Jill Frey  Thanks Marie, I appreciate your input.
Jill Frey  Thank you Adam, It helps to know that someone who is so well rounded in this area thinks highly of a ... Read more
Peter Linn  Great to hear from you Kim!!!!
  Welcome to recovery Kim! God bless you
Richard Munson  Jill, doctors come in all shapes and sizes. Some have sparkling personalities like me , others do not ... Read more
Jill Frey  Thank you Richard, I really appreciate your input. Its what I need to hear!
Richard Munson  My surgeon was purported to be able to do mitral valve surgery in his sleep. This is what you want. ... Read more
On June 4, 2021...
Nancy W posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam,
I wanted to thank you for this amazing forum. One aspect of my recovery from mvp repair has been the emotional component and lack of attention from the medical community ( surgeon’s team and cardiologist) regarding this aspect. All have been very kind and caring but really did not provide the information and possible support that a patient might need for emotional follow up. I live in San Jose, Ca and had my surgery at Stanford and surprisingly, no one prepared me for coping with the anxiety, sadness, grief, etc that was part of this ordeal. I’m a recently retired educational psychologist and have been thinking about contacting my doctors or other agencies to see about developing a program to facilitate the emotional component for heart surgery patients. Do you know of any programs or support systems in place around the country. Perhaps due to Covid, there was less attention paid to the emotional component. I’m curious about your thoughts about this. I’d be happy to speak with you more privately, as well.
Thanks
Nancy
Adam Pick  Hi Nancy! Wow! Thanks so much for these very kind words. You just made my day! Thanks again!!! Yo ... Read more
Mended Hearts is a non-profit organization that has been offering the gift of hope to heart disease patients, their families and caregivers.
Nancy W  Thanks Adam. I will check them out and keep you updated.
Adam Pick  Sounds great!
Joseph Heinzmann  HVS is always n open tab in my browser and this is the reason. I had a successful MV repair in Januar ... Read more
Nancy W  Joseph- the emotional roller coaster was so unexpected for me, as well. I’m going to check out this ... Read more
On May 12, 2021...
Dylan Kempers posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam! Just to let you know that heartvalvesurgery.com is now the #1 top heart blog and website per Feedspot https://blog.feedspot.com/heart_blogs. Well deserved!!
Adam Pick  What????? Holy Moly!!!!! Rubbing my eyes to make sure what I'm seeing is real!!!! Yep, it's true!!! ... Read more
On April 25, 2021...
Cheryl Mann posted a note for Adam that says:
Hey Adam - I was wondering - is there a way to mark certain posts that are especially helpful or have a special section for FAQs? It seems several people are interested in packing lists (for the hospital stay) and suggestions for diversions to keep from being anxious before surgery. It might be nice to have a link to a “packing list suggestions” area and maybe a “keeping pre-op anxiety at bay” so everyone can find those posts easily?
Adam Pick  Hey Cheryl, Great. great, great idea! Unfortunately, we don't have a special way to mark posts... Bu ... Read more
Deena Elani  It is a great idea, because I was clueless. Not sure if everyone knows about or uses the search func ... Read more
Cheryl Mann  Adam - love the idea! I think a packing list and a resource list w what helps w pre-op anxiety would ... Read more
On April 19, 2021...
Nancy W posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam,
I’m wondering if you’ve had experience or knowledge of hemolytic anemia post mitral valve repair? My hemoglobin has not come back to presurgery levels- I’m at the low end of normal and my reticulite count was higher than normal range. I’m wondering if any of the doctors or heart warriors here have had that experience. It’s very disappointing to me since post surgery, I have several issues and had no symptoms other than diagnosed severe regurgitation which prompted surgery.
Adam Pick  Hey Nancy, Great question. Fyi, I struggled with anemia shortly after surgery as you can read at the ... Read more
Deena Elani  I am about one month out from mitral and tricuspid valves repair. The Cardia Rehab Nurse Manager told ... Read more
Nancy W  Thank you. I’ll keep you posted.
On April 15, 2021...
Marshall Rader posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam , Heart valve and double bypass people fair ? I read 8-10 years afterwards !! Hm , what might your thoughts ?

Thanks
Adam Pick  Hi Marshall, You betcha! We're all family!! Fyi, a lot of patients in our community have concomitant ... Read more
Learn important information about coronary artery disease and heart valve disorders.
Learn important facts about atrial fibrillation, heart valve disease and the Maze Procedure from leading doctors and patient success stories.
Learn about aortic aneurysms and how bulging aortas impact patients with heart valve disorders.
On April 15, 2021...
Hector Romero posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam I haven't been here for a while it's Kathleen Hector's wife he finally got the surgery on April 13 2021 every thing went well he got the inspiris resillia valve today he is up and walking everything looks great
On April 4, 2021...
Vicki Schorr-Coben posted a note for Adam that says:
I want to send you a private email regarding my son who was just diagnosed with a Bicuspid Aortic Valve and Moderate Regurgitation. How might I do that?
Adam Pick  Hi Vicki! You can email me at adam@heartvalvesurgery.com. Feel free to send me a note at your earlie ... Read more
On March 26, 2021...
Marshall Rader posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam ,
Will a nurse be assigned to visit a patient's residency after OHS ?? I'm wondering how the INR is checked first week or so after leaving hospital ??

Thanks for the help 👍
Marshall
Joseph Heinzmann  Marshall, I can tell you my experience bearing in mind that it's not necessarily the same everywhere. ... Read more
Susan Lynn  Marshall - You may want to check with your surgeon's office. I was temporarily on blood thinners an ... Read more
On March 25, 2021...
Marshall Rader posted a note for Adam that says:
Helloi Adam my name is Marshall.

I'm a 60 year old veteran that was recently told I need OHS because of my stenosis on my bicuspid valve and repair on the 4.2 cm of ascending aorta !! I'm recently retired, and I live alone.

My question will be, is there a support number, or how do I deal with this pre-op anxiety. My close friends said I'll be fine since only weigh 155 and I eat healthy. Do you have any suggestions on support and this anxiety.?

Thank you very much Adam
Marshall
Adam Pick  Hi Marshall, Great to meet you. You raise a really important question about pre-op anxiety. I can re ... Read more
https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com -- Dr. Marc Gillinov, from The Cleveland Clinic, addresses patient concerns related to fear and anxiety prior to heart va...
https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - Have you ever wondered what emotions patients experience before, during and after heart surgery? Find out in this educa...
Learn the 5 steps to prepare for heart surgery from Peggy Huddleston, author of Prepare for Heart Surgery, Heal Faster.
Marshall Rader  Thanks Adam !! I really appreciate it !!
Adam Pick  No problem Marshall! If you need anything else, please give me a holler! I'm here to help!
On March 19, 2021...
Mike Ridenour posted a note for Adam that says:
thanks, for creating this site. I lost out on learning prior to my surgery because of how late I joined. At least I am learning more about my specifics and connecting with others that I share issues with. Learning every day and thankful for that. all of the different heart procedures and the different types of surgeries...the technology is incredible and very interesting. thanks again, best wishes.
Adam Pick  Hey Mike, Welcome to our community! Great to have you here with us. As you allude, there is nothing ... Read more
See patient reviews, physician biography, videos and contact information for Dr. Lars Svensson, heart surgeon, in Cleveland, Ohio.
Mike Ridenour  funny you mention him. In my meeting after testing locally, and my cath look-see. My local surgeon ex ... Read more
David Smith  I agree with Mike! Dr Svensson was awesome and made me feel at ease. He explained everything the day ... Read more
On March 12, 2021...
Moussa hojeij posted a note for Adam that says:
hello adam i hope you are doing well, i really have an important question, i got an aortic valve replacement with a mechanical valve( st.jude 23) valve and aortic aneurysm fixation 3 months ago, i'm asking if i can do an MRI safely? do you have any recommendations?
On March 10, 2021...
David Smith posted a note for Adam that says:
Hello Adam and greetings from Ohio!
I wanted to tell you that great minds think alike! I have been very pleased with the website and positive feedback for all that have posted their information here. It’s extremely helpful and supportive for someone that hasn’t been through this before and has been very helpful to me. In January 2021, I had this grand idea and I was trying to brainstorm how I could be, or even advocate to help people what they were going to experience and go through with open heart surgery and or valve replacement surgery as I knew mine was coming soon. I have to honest, you beat me to the punch! Great job! I realize you are very busy and with an ever growing number of patients joining I am sure it’s hard to keep up with everyone. If you get a chance, please read my story. My mother is 89 years old and she has lived a long and prosperous life, and still does. As a parent, this is her second time she has dealt with my heart surgeries. This second one of mine was a little easier on her to handle as the heart and vascular medical field has grown exponentially and has saved so many lives and continues to do so. I am very happy to know that there are people all over the world being saved by the very best talented surgical teams this world has to offer. I wish you only the very best in your future endeavors. Thanks again!

Sincerely,
Dave Smith
Bremen, Ohio
Deena Elani  What a great compliment, Adam from David. I hear a bell ring.
Adam Pick  Hey David, WOW! DOUBLE WOW! TRIPLE WOW!!!! You just made my day with this post. Thanks soooooooooooo ... Read more
On March 4, 2021...
Kathleen Young posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam I'm hearing alot of good stories about the onx mechanical valve my husband doesn't want anymore surgeries after this he is 70 do you think he will be able to get a mechanical I know he will have to take blood thinners do they give mechanical valves for people in their. 70s
On February 24, 2021...
Kathleen Young posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam it's me kathleen hector's wife he is having his surgery at beth isreal deaconess medical center in boston his surgeon is kamal khabbaz April 9th 2021 is his surgey
Adam Pick  Hi Kathleen! Nice to meet you! I've heard great things about Dr. Khabbaz although I have not met hi ... Read more
On February 23, 2021...
Kathleen Young posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam is the tissue valve GOOD for my husband he is 70 years old he doesn't want another surgery he has aortic regurgitation his name is hector and my name is kathleen we are scared of open heart surgery
On January 15, 2021...
Charles Fettinger posted a note for Adam that says:
Hey Adam. Thx for your note. Very quick and much appreciated. I could use your advice and suggestions for the latest heart valve options. Regarding the Inspiris Resilia valve, what is the current estimated useful life? Considering that I only want to do this one more time, is the On-X the best available option?? Thanks!
Adam Pick  Perfect questions Charles!!! Really. Unfortunately, I don't have a perfect answer for you. Here is ... Read more
Learn important facts about the INSPIRIS RESILIA Aortic Valve in this interview with Dr. Lars Svensson from the Cleveland Clinic.
Charles P  Adam thanks for the information. I did see that and viewed the video that Dr. Svensson made showing i ... Read more
On November 6, 2020...
Steven Methot posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam,

Quick question here about the health of doctors. Two surgeons I am aware of in the center where I am likely to have surgery have had to end their careers very early due to problems with their necks. Would you know how common this is? My surgeon is "taking care" of his neck with a regimen of stretches and physical therapy, which would seem to indicate that this is a known issue. Are neck problems that prevalent among cardiac surgeons?
Adam Pick  Hi Steven, Great question. Unfortunately, I don't know the answer. Sorry!
Marie Myers  Surgeons, like everyone else, suffer the effects of imperfect posture . Your head is actually heavy, ... Read more
On October 28, 2020...
Paige Aguilar posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam,
I had my Ross procedure at 16 yrs old in 2007.
Recently my mom has stumbled upon a few webinars that you have hosted and sent me the links regarding the Bicuspid aortic valve program.
I knew your name and face were familiar, After reading your story I knew exactly who you were! My mom had bought your book for me, it really helped put me at ease especially being ae to relate with similar HD.
To see how far you have come in your outreaching is amazing! Thank you so much for doing what you do!

Adam Pick  Hey Paige!!! I can not thank you enough for the very kind words about this project. That really mea ... Read more
On October 19, 2020...
Jim Archer posted a note for Adam that says:
I am glad I found your site. Six months ago I had an eight hour Bentall procedure at Torrance Memorial in Torrance, Ca. John Stoneburner was the thoracic surgeon. I am doing well, just want to get off the flecanaide and Eliquis, but a little flutter is still there.

I had few symptoms, a bit of afib, some tiredness. The Cat scan showed a 6.8 cm dilation of the ascending aorta, so this became a bit of an emergency surgery in April. I will be getting on the blog to see how others deal with the psychological aspect of having these foreign parts in the body, the Edwards valve and Dacron repair of the aorta.

Jim Archer
Adam Pick  Hey Jim! Or, should I say "Howdy Neighbor!". I'm in SoCal too. Wow! 6.8cm dilation??? Glad that w ... Read more
Jim Archer  Hello Adam. I am starting to post my story here. I put in a bit of a preamble in "My Valve Story". I ... Read more
On October 16, 2020...
Justin Daniels posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam,

I hope you are doing well. My name is Justin and I had my 1st AVR at 24. Now at 31, I am in a position where my second AVR is just around the corner. While I have not yet scheduled a surgery, it is fully contingent in me selecting a procedure. I am trying to make a decision between a bio-prosthetic at Weill- Cornell (where and what I have now) or The Ross Procedure with Dr. Ismail El-Hamamsy at Mount Sinai. I find myself leaning towards the Ross Procedure but am struggling to get over the hump of full decision making.

The main reoccurring theme for me is almost a rhetorical question of , “ why would you take a failing aortic valve and now add the risk of a failing aortic valve and a failing pulmonary valve though the Ross”?

I have done research and I see the statistics (even if somewhat limited) are very receptive to the Ross Procedure. My current feeling in deciding between my 2 options is that the Ross has the highest “ceiling” or “best” potential out come but because it is really a double valve replacement it may also have the lowest “floor”.

If you would, I would greatly appreciate any insight you might be able to provide.

Thank you!

Justin
Adam Pick  Hey Justin, Checking in.... I know you saw my last message about the Ross. Please let me know if you ... Read more
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