Adam Pick Hi Amy! Thanks so much for the kind words!!!! It's an honor and privilege to be part of this communit ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Amy! Thanks so much for the kind words!!!! It's an honor and privilege to be part of this community!!! If you need anything, please let me know.
I agree! Adam, you are great and this site helped me stay sane before, during and after this crazy ex ... Read more
I agree! Adam, you are great and this site helped me stay sane before, during and after this crazy experience.
On March 24, 2016...
Jan McClain posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam, do you know any heart surgeons at UCSF, or have any other contacts there? If there is anything you can do to help Barbara Laurie now, or advice you could give her, we would all be very grateful. She has been treated abominably by UCSF schedulers, and deserves a personal apology from her surgeon, the cardiac surgery department chairman and the hospital chief of staff. And she should have her surgery without further delay!
Adam Pick Hi Jan, Thanks for writing me about Barbara. Unfortunately, I am not familiar with any of the surgeon ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Jan, Thanks for writing me about Barbara. Unfortunately, I am not familiar with any of the surgeons at UCSF. The surgeons I know in the SF area are Drs. Castro, Gaudiani and Khan. What happened to Barbara? Actually, don't answer that. I'll go check her journal. Sorry, I can't be of more help. Adam
Nicola Laker Sorry but this site doesn't always let me post on people's journals so I have to hijack other people' ... Read more
Nicola Laker Sorry but this site doesn't always let me post on people's journals so I have to hijack other people's posts. 😣 This is what I wanted to post. ☺
Hi Adam. I'm trying to find where I can order a heart pillow. I'm in the UK and all the ones I have found on the Internet do not ship to the UK.
We only get a rolled up hospital towel and I would love one of these pillows for when I have my surgery at the end of April and for my surgeon to sign. Can you help me? X Also I have bought your book and its great. Thank you! 😆
On March 19, 2016...
Michele McMinn posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam. A few weeks back your news letter had an update about the FDA approval of the Perceval valve. I would like to know if it is possible to get one if you have an aorta aneurysm ?
Michele
Your video of Dr. Lewis was one of the main reasons I got interested in Dr. Lewis and Princeton Baptist. It is a great video.
After being there, I can say that they have a wonderful program at every point. Since they have high volume of surgeries their skills are excellent. Because it is a relatively small hospital the doctors, nurses, and staff all have great relationships that allow them to provide the best patient care.
Thank you also for all of the love and care that you express for all of the people in this community. It meant a lot to me.
Adam Pick Thanks so much Robert! You just made my day. I'm so glad to hear that the video Dr. Lewis was instrum ... Read more
Adam Pick Thanks so much Robert! You just made my day. I'm so glad to hear that the video Dr. Lewis was instrumental in helping you along this journey. Keep on tickin!!! Adam
Robert Frederick Adam: I also noticed that you added Princeton Baptist on your hospital list in December.
Robert Frederick Adam: I also noticed that you added Princeton Baptist on your hospital list in December.
I was trying to get it cited on the "my valve story page." It isn't on the pull down menu yet, so I tried to add it by hand and could not get it to work.
I am so proud of all of them, I wanted to be able to include it. Perhaps there is an update on your end that could be worked out in the future.
On January 20, 2016...
pino correale posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam, i would like to thank you for the brilliant idea in building this important blog. I have gotten a lot back since i have joined. Great human beings at ""heart"". Now i have noticed that whenever i tune in your blog, the page comes out differently than before. Before i was able to add a comment right away, in the last few days i see a new format, where you have to comment directly at that person. Did you just change the format or am not in tune with everything. Thanks for taking my question and continued success.
On October 28, 2015...
Steven A Husted posted a note for Adam that says:
what a heart brother you are i can not thank you enough for your book and this web site what a blessing you are to the heart valve surgery community we all love and pray for you to keep up the very good work you are doing yea yea heart brother and keep on ticking
Jeanette Davidson posted a note for Adam that says:
Wow!, Adam that's really exciting! I feel so honored that you want to share my story! Thank you for your support during this journey ! ❤️ I believe I've done so well because I received such support from the site thanks to you .
Adam Pick Hey Jeanette, Yay! So glad that your journey has been enhanced by this project!!! ❤️❤️❤️ ... Read more
Adam Pick Hey Jeanette, Yay! So glad that your journey has been enhanced by this project!!! ❤️❤️❤️ Fyi, I'm sorry for the delay in getting back to you. It's been a long day. Your Facebook post is going up tomorrow. Again, sorry for the delay! Stay tuned!
On July 17, 2015...
Jeanette Davidson posted a note for Adam that says:
Thank you Adam for helping , guiding and creating such meaningful resources for all of us! I will be forever grateful!❤️
Tammy Pilcher posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam, thank you so much for including me in your "Patient Success Stories"! I really appreciate all of your kind words! You are the "Original Rockstar" for writing your amazing book and starting this amazing website! I'm just trying to give back a little of the support and encouragement that was so generously given to me by you and the other wonderful people in this super community! Thank you with all of my grateful heart! God bless you!
Adam Pick Thanks sooooooooo much Tammy!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
On June 17, 2015...
Jackie posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam,
Please review the latest guestpost for Dan D, written by Fadir? I think it should be removed if possible. Thank You🌸
Adam Pick Hi Jackie. All taken care of. Thanks! Adam
On May 14, 2015...
Summer Lane posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam, I've seen Ross procedure on here a few times but I have NO idea what it is. Can you explain it to me.
Also, has anyone here had any issues with their glue not falling off and having to have it removed?
http://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - Learn the advantages of the Ross Procedure surgery for patients with aortic valve disease in this special video with Dr....
On May 14, 2015...
Kristy f posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam, my husband was originally diagnosed and being treated for cardiomyopathy. I got him a second opinion for this and discovered problems with the valve besides the thickened muscle. He will having surgery Tuesday at the intermountain heart institute in Murray. .. I hear they are very successful and his surgeon stephen clayson is great. .my husband is now at the point where its hard to catch his breath and he says he he's a lot of pressure on them this week.
On May 12, 2015...
Kristy f posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam, my husband is going in next week to try and repair his mitral valve, which the Dr says is not a typical case. He also will be having some thickened muscle cut out that is causing some obstruction. .. I guess I'm just grasping for any hope and advice you can give me. .. I'm scared to death for him. . We have little boys as well. My husband is our while life. He's 36 and works hard on the family orchard, but he has declined fast the last few months. Kristy. Pickleskk@msn.com
Adam Pick Hi Kristy, Thanks for posting to my Guestbook. Did you get a second opinion from a surgeon at a mitra ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Kristy, Thanks for posting to my Guestbook. Did you get a second opinion from a surgeon at a mitral valve repair reference center? Adam
On May 8, 2015...
Dave Van Buren (DVB) posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam! Been a while. Just at 4 years post OHS/MV repair and finished my annual walkabout in celebration. A technical question regarding the journals: it used to be possible to embed html and I made use of that in my journal for links, photos, graphics, and so on. The new formatter just presents verbatim the html instead of, well, formatting it. So it doesn't display nicely. Rather ugly actually. Got any ideas for how I can edit my old journal entries to format properly? Thanks -- DVB
Adam Pick Hi DVB, Congrats on the 4-year mark and the walkabout! Awesome. Regarding your technical question, w ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi DVB, Congrats on the 4-year mark and the walkabout! Awesome. Regarding your technical question, we added an auto link recognition feature to help our community members easily share information. For example, here's a link to your journal. I hope that helps! Sorry, it will not convert convert your prior HTML code. We don't have the resources to create the code to go backwards. Hope that helps!! Adam https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/journals/user/davevanburendvb
Meet other patients with heart valve disease who are preparing for or recovering from surgery.
On May 5, 2015...
Ben Schraegle posted a note for Adam that says:
Hello Adam! Ben Schraegle here; it has been 4.5 months (Dec 17,2014) since my heart valve surgery; had my mitral valve and aortic valve surgically repaired by Dr. William Brinkman here in Plano, Texas at The Baylor Heart Hospital. I have been doing great; even ran a 5K two weeks ago! Well, I went in for a cold last week and my GP took my vitals (he was the one who discovered my heart murmur) and my heart rate was 150. They took me over to the Baylor Heart Hospital ER and it was discovered that I have Atrial Flutter. Last Thursday I had a TEE and then my heart was shocked to get my pulse back to the normal zone (60-90). I am now on Xralto (za-rall-to) and will be until I go in for an "ablation." My cardiologist, Dr. Charles Levin here in Dallas told me that this is just a "bump-in-the-road." You know, I thought I was done with this "stuff" and now this; your comments and feedback please Adam, I appreciateit and what you do for all of us! Regards, Ben Schraegle
Kimberly Biddick Ben, were you able to feel your heart racing that fast? My prayers for you that this will be resolve ... Read more
Kimberly Biddick Ben, were you able to feel your heart racing that fast? My prayers for you that this will be resolved quickly and easily. So sorry for this setback!
Ben Schraegle Thanks Kimberly, appreciate your comments. Going to see my cardiologist tomorrow for a check up and ... Read more
Ben Schraegle Thanks Kimberly, appreciate your comments. Going to see my cardiologist tomorrow for a check up and i think all is going to be well; let you know. God Bless. Ben
Cheryl Batzing Ben, hey again! I was having surgery about the same time as you at Baylor Heart Plano! So sorry to he ... Read more
Cheryl Batzing Ben, hey again! I was having surgery about the same time as you at Baylor Heart Plano! So sorry to hear about your Atrial flutter. I had that plus afib while I was in the hospital, and they cardio converted me before I came home. I have gone back into it a few times...and gone to see my cardiologist. I'm on amarodione (spelling?) to keep my heart in sinus rhythm. They wanted to get me off that a month or so ago, but said it wouldn't hurt me to stay on. I had 2-3 week of episodes about a month ago, then stopped. Then had one episode last week for about an hour, then it stopped. Bumps in the road seem to be common for all of us...just different. My cardiologist said once my heart goes into the atrial flutter/afib, it "remembers" that rhythm and tries to go back that way, unless helped with drugs, etc. He said the further we get away from surgery date without issues, the more likely to not have them. I also had an ablation for tachycardia 7 years before my OHS and it was a piece of cake. I'll keep you in my prayers for your upcoming ablation.
On April 20, 2015...
Joaquim Cimoes posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam,
Thank you for your attention, this site was very important for me.
Hugs from Brazil.
Is there a way to un-follow a member of the community. I keep getting emails that a member has updated his journal and there has not been an update. And it's not just one email at a time, they come sometimes in 10 or more at one time. I assume there is another glitch in the system and I tried to stop receiving these emails but the link within the email that would allow me to stop receiving updates for that individual doesn't work either. That link takes me to a surgeon spotlight page. Is there no option to un-follow someone? At this point, the only way I can stop the repetitive emails from coming in and taking over my inbox is to block all email communications from the site by sending them to my Email Spam Folder so that's what I did. I emailed you with regard to this problem but have not heard back so I assume you are busy and will check into when you have a moment. Until then, my Spam folder will get a good workout. :) Karen
muhammad basharat sir send me i am patent of biscupid aortic valve plz advise medicine i am very painfull 03036214708
On April 10, 2015...
Joaquim Cimoes posted a note for Adam that says:
Dear Adam,
In the USA do you need to wait for a valve to Ross procedure or you have a bank of valves? We waited for 7 months for a donor to replace the valve of Joaquim. How to function the valve bank?
On April 5, 2015...
Hi Adam....I just wanted to say I read your book in two days...and it is very informative and helpful. Thank you! I think it is so awesome that you created this website and wrote your book to help others with upcoming valve surgeries. I have a sister in WA, who will be needing her mitral valve repaired. She was wondering if your book is also available on CD.
My surgery is one month from tomorrow. I can't wait to be on the recovery side!
God Bless You...and Happy Easter to you and your family.
Pamla Moeller
Adam Pick Thanks so much Pamela. You just made my day. Unfortunately, the book is not available on CD. If you o ... Read more
Adam Pick Thanks so much Pamela. You just made my day. Unfortunately, the book is not available on CD. If you or your sister need anything else, please let me know.
Thank you!
On March 17, 2015...
Virginia (Ginger) French posted a note for Adam that says:
Blessings from one of the Family!
Adam, I have been doing a bit of reunion by visiting the journals of some of the people I was closest to during the Pre- and Post-Op periods of my HVR. I have made some friends who feel truly like family, whom I would trust to make decisions for me, should it come to that.
This site, Community, Family, is so much more than I could ever have imagined, and it (or more accurately the people who participate, as well as all of the educational materials) really have been a tremendous blessing to me.
I wish you all good things, and that you and your family live in health and joy.
This is one of those times when saying "thank you" doesn't even touch it. May God continue to bless you in all you do, Ginger
J Blair posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam I an new to this site and just learning how to navigate through it and also learn of other's heart stories. I am desperately trying to find someone that has had their aortic and mitral valve repaired with both mechanical valves. Alternatively anyone who had the same valves replacedceith tissue. I have yet to read your entire story but were your to valves replaced with mechanical ? Hope to hear from you. Thanks for cresting this site I am from Canada and trying to make connections. You have crested a wondeful vehicle to learn and share with others experiencing heart valve issues
Edith Dim posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam, I made a comment beneath Stella's TAVR success story. When you have time, I would Appreciate if you would read it. I realize now that I should have typed it here.
Thank you. Edie
On February 28, 2015...
Tammy posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam,
I had a bicuspid valve replaced about eight months ago. It was my 50th Birthday present. The surgeon looked at me like he had seen a ghost when he came to my room to visit. He said he had no idea how I was actually breathing. I thought I was getting better, and things have gotten worse in the last month. Have you heard of anyone having breathing issues eight months after surgery? I also have terrible fatigue. They think it might be something with my lungs.
On February 19, 2015...
Peter Duplin posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam it is my friend Sandra Trotta on the 23rd at Morton Plant Hospital in clearwater Fl. They have it listed as Peter Duplin Adam I would really like to get Sandra name on the list but because I have been keeping and helping her with the journal they used my name.Adam could you please help me with this as it is so important thankyou PeterDuplin.
On February 7, 2015...
Peter Duplin posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam I want to personally thank you for creating this incredible site.As a friend of someone who is having OHS for the second time I found this incredible site where I can be accepted and vent my feeling my downfalls and my frustrations, and also have this incredible wealth of information at my finger tips thank you Adam. You have truly put your heart and sole in to creating this priceless website. Warm regards Sandra and Peter
Adam Pick Hey Peter, Wow. Thanks. You just made my day, my month, my year! It is so nice to wake up to a messag ... Read more
Adam Pick Hey Peter, Wow. Thanks. You just made my day, my month, my year! It is so nice to wake up to a message like this.
That said, there really is no need to thank me. In fact, it is I who should be thanking you and the other wonderful members of this community.
It is a complete honor and privilege for me to be of service to this special community. I can't begin to express the joy this project has brought into my life. So... Thank you!!!!!!
Now, let's focus on getting Sandra ready for a successful surgery and recovery! If you or Sandra need anything, please let me know.
Keep on tickin!
Adam
Peter Duplin Adam thank you for your kind words and "Lets go getting attitude "Sandra and I will definitely let y ... Read more
Peter Duplin Adam thank you for your kind words and "Lets go getting attitude "Sandra and I will definitely let you know if Sandra and I need any assistance in the days upcoming before her surgery.God Bless Sandra anPeter
On February 6, 2015...
Hi Adam,
I hope all is well with you and your family.
I have two questions.
First, I would love to have the link to the commercial when you are ready to share. I would like to share it with my family for sure.
Second, do you have any posts from people who have suffered from pericarditis? At 5 months, go figure, I feel great, no fatigue, no pain, no swelling, but I still feel my heart sticking to my breast bone at every single breath. I had a CT scan done recently and Dr. Stewart looked at it, and my cardiologist is going to see it next week along with a chest x-ray, and an echo was done. Nothing is concerning anyone at this point, except me, although my cardiologist has not seen the images. Prior to this he reviewed the echo and I had to push for some help or a solution. Everything I read says it goes away after 3 months, (cleveland clinic included) but I am worrying about why the inflammation is still there, what can it cause, if anything long term, and why am I feeling the same exact way, at 5 months. I feel like no one has this, but me, which probably is not true. My cardiologist wants to give me a lot of ibuprofin, which I am not taking, and I found something else that is an entirely different approach (holistic - and backed up by a lot of research) to combat inflammation in general, and is used in place of ibuprofin, without any of those nasty side effects. It is being shipped and I will have it next week to take. I noticed you listed posts on lack of sleep and was wondering if you have any for what I am feeling. Thank you. (can you tell I am at the end of my rope with this)?
Adam Pick Hi Christine, Great to hear from you. I hope and your daughters are enjoying your new home. Regarding ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Christine, Great to hear from you. I hope and your daughters are enjoying your new home. Regarding the video, it is in final review. I'll get you a link as soon as it is available. Sorry for the delay.
I just received a very interesting question from Bernie about the pericardium and heart valve surgery. Bernie writes, "Hi Adam - At 51 years old, I need to r
Thanks, Adam. Chases comment is probably who I identify with the most.... I see ibuprofen knocked it ... Read more
Thanks, Adam. Chases comment is probably who I identify with the most.... I see ibuprofen knocked it right out, which it is suppose to.
Please no apologies needed for the time of the release for the commercial. ( I would secretly love to bring it my cardiologist who never shared the repair option with me). Famous last words.... Christine, you will just have to live with a mechanical valve and take cumiden and adjust to your new life. Really? I don't think so. 😊
On February 4, 2015...
Curtis Jones posted a note for Adam that says:
Thanks for the warm welcome Adam, yes I guess we are neighbors . Glad I found your site, what a wonderful support system. I may take you up on answering some questions should they arise. I was to see the surgeon yesterday for q&a and scheduling but he had emergency surgery, so I guess it'll wait a week.
Patricia Garcia posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam...I see a few great hospital's and doctors mentioned on here. I just wanted to say that my surgeon Dr. Michael Acker from HUP in Philadelphia is amazing. He saved my life. My mitral valve was open only the size of a pinhead and I had a mural like clot on my left atrium. My 2nd surgery was at Cleveland Clinic and they were great too. They did not take my insurance this time around. I was on borrrowed time and went with HUP after going in the ER on 12/18/14. I am happy I did and just want others to know that there are great hospitals that are local. Some may be to ill to travel, no money or insurance issues to go to the best. HUP is #7 in the US for the heart. The nursing care at HUP is the best I have ever seen. I don't know if you know of Dr. Michael Acker, but I wanted to share that with you in case someone can't travel out of PA or the local area surrounding it.
Tammi Gunwall I'd like to add Dr Robert Saeid Farivar in MN as well. He did a fabulous job with my BAV replacement ... Read more
Tammi Gunwall I'd like to add Dr Robert Saeid Farivar in MN as well. He did a fabulous job with my BAV replacement and has an amazing and extensive background. He was/is very attentive and follows his patients closely after surgery. He took the time to really listen to my questions & concerns and made me feel very confident in my choices. My incision scar could not look more amazing either...literally flawless. Being a woman, I am pleased to say that it is barely even visible (even at just 4 wks post op). I'm sure you have a criteria for your list of recommended surgeons Adam, but I had to at least give props to Dr Farivar and his tremendous work. :)
Add your heart surgeon to the Heart Valve Surgeon Finder for patients.
Patricia Garcia Thanks Adam I will add Dr. Michael Acker to the list.
On January 31, 2015...
Mark Alafita posted a note for Adam that says:
Dear Adam,
I just wanted to send a quick note of thanks for both your book and this site. As I approach my surgery in two days, it is frightening to think of how lost I would feel without the information you have provided, and the support that this community freely gives. Don't get me wrong...I'm still nervous, but it would be foolish not to be. But at least I'm walking into this experience with realistic expectations instead of unrealistic fears. For that, I thank you deeply.
PS: When I met my surgeon at U of M for the first time and asked what I could do to get prepared for surgery, the first thing he mentioned was to read your book (which I had already done!). Now that's a ringing endorsement.
Edith Dim You will be in my thoughts and prayers for a successful surgery on Monday, Mark.
Adam Pick Mark, You just made my day, my month, my year! So you know, it is an honor and privilege to support y ... Read more
Adam Pick Mark, You just made my day, my month, my year! So you know, it is an honor and privilege to support you during this time in your life. Really. Thank you.
As for being nervous, I don't know many people who are not nervous before any surgery -- let alone heart surgery. The good news is that you are ready. You know what to expect and... we're here to help you and your family. :)
Tour the Heart Valve Center at Frankel Cardiovascular Center at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
On January 29, 2015...
Ole Bore posted a note for Adam that says:
Hey Adam. Have another bug for you for this site: Appears anytime someone comments on a story (i.e. profile update), it shows it in everyone's notifications... (Sorry can't help but to point it out, work in the Software/Cloud industry - and really want this site to be as good as possible).
Thanks again for all you do.
Adam Pick Hi Ole, Thanks for the heads up. I'm not sure I understand though. The way the system works is that w ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Ole, Thanks for the heads up. I'm not sure I understand though. The way the system works is that when a patient joins a thread (e.g. a journal, a guestbook, a photo, etc.), they are notified when an additional patient provides a comment to that thread.
That way, each patient can stay connected to the conversation as it evolves. Often times, we're seeing patients go back-and-forth with each other on a thread.
The notification system was designed to facilitate that communication. Is this what you are talking about?
In advance, thanks for helping me better understand the situation. Adam
Jennifer Anderson Love this site! However, I did notice that I get notifications saying "Jane Doe commented on your pr ... Read more
Jennifer Anderson Love this site! However, I did notice that I get notifications saying "Jane Doe commented on your profile update"... and when you click on it, it's actually someone else's profile update. No complaints at all, just trying to give an example of what I think Ole was trying to say.
Adam Pick Hi Jennifer, Thanks. Is that error happening just for the profile updates notifications?
Ole Bore It appears so. And only if someone comments on the profile update. It will say "Adam commented on you ... Read more
Ole Bore It appears so. And only if someone comments on the profile update. It will say "Adam commented on your profile update"
Sorry I would have posted a screenshot had I been on a computer.
Terrie Syvertsen posted a note for Adam that says:
Hello Adam,
Received a note from Robin Szymanski who Is celebrating her 2nd.yr. Anniversary of
her surgery today back in the Hospital and thought I would mention it to you as I already noted it in the updates in my journal today as She sent the message out that prayers would be appreciated by her! Thought I would mention it to you as I have the rest of the community as I am sure a word from you would go along way while they are checking her out and running their tests. Thank you for your time. Terrie
Adam Pick Thanks Terrie. I just left Robin a note in her guest book. My thoughts are with her during this very ... Read more
Adam Pick Thanks Terrie. I just left Robin a note in her guest book. My thoughts are with her during this very challenging time.
On January 24, 2015...
Amy DiGiovanni Noack posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam, I just read your response to Damian and I'm wondering how both your pulmonary and replacement valve are doing 9 yrs later? Is your pulmonary functioning at normal capacity in the aortic position? Do you ever feel and side effects? Thanks for any insight:)
Adam Pick Hi Amy, Great questions. After my Ross Procedure, both valves -- the replacement aortic and pulmonary ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Amy, Great questions. After my Ross Procedure, both valves -- the replacement aortic and pulmonary -- are functioning incredibly well. I feel no side effects.
The key with the Ross Procedure is to find a very, very, very experienced surgeon to perform the operation -- as it is very complex.
Interestingly, I think I may be in the best shape of my life, having just completed a fun health challenge with my neighbors.
Last night, I drove up to my house after a very, very, very lonnnnnng day of work. The past twelve hours were filled with hundreds of emails, several conference
Amy DiGiovanni Noack Thanks Adam! That's so reassuring to hear. I'm hoping I have the same outcome and longevity with my ... Read more
Amy DiGiovanni Noack Thanks Adam! That's so reassuring to hear. I'm hoping I have the same outcome and longevity with my new quilted heart!...I picture a bunch of patch work when I see the diagrams and it makes me think of a quilted blanket!!
My best to you!
Adam Pick Great. By the way... Excellent job finding Dr. David. He is a valve guru! :)
On January 24, 2015...
Hi Adam,
Edith Dim needs to get a hold of you. She is new to the site and learning how to navigate and her post landed on my site. She has some important questions for you.
Adam Pick Thanks Christine. I just responded to Edith. :)
Edith, sending a big hug back your way!
Ok, Adam. :)
Adam Pick Hey, How about me? Can I get a hug? I love hugs. :)
LOL , thanks for the laugh Adam, right before I head to bed in the middle of this crazy blizzard. I ... Read more
LOL , thanks for the laugh Adam, right before I head to bed in the middle of this crazy blizzard. I just sent you a big hug as well, I did not mean to leave you out! :)
On January 24, 2015...
Bob M posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam, this post is from Edith Dim:
Edith Dim Adam...I use listened to your video with Dr. Gillonov of of the Cleveland Clinic, and was so impressed, and frightened at the same time. I live in Scottsdale Az, a long way from Cleveland, and I am 88 years old. I have a surgeon here in Scottsdale who is highly regarded. He has performed hundreds of valve replacements as opposed to 4,000 that Dr. Gillonov has. My son would accompany me if I traveled, but I would then need a 24 hr. Caregiver for my husband, instead of 11 hrs per day.. If I were your mother, or an aunt... don't want to put you on the spot...would you think it wiser for to me to consider being close to home for the surgery? I know it is not fair to ask you that, but you are knowledgeable.
On January 11, 2015...
Patricia Garcia posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam, just wanted to know what type of valves you have?
Adam Pick Hi Patricia, I had the Ross Procedure performed on me. So, my aortic valve was replaced with my pulmo ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Patricia, I had the Ross Procedure performed on me. So, my aortic valve was replaced with my pulmonary valve. And, my pulmonary valve was replaced with a human donor valve. It was a little bit of musical chairs going on with my valves which is why the operation is also called the Switch Procedure. If you are interested, here's some good information and an educational video about the Ross Procedure. https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/ross-procedure-statistics.php
Learn about the Ross Procedure surgery for aortic valve replacement - its success, failure, re-operations rates and leading surgeons.
Patricia Garcia Thanks for the information. My problem valve has been my mitral valve. I had MVP as a child then it ... Read more
Patricia Garcia Thanks for the information. My problem valve has been my mitral valve. I had MVP as a child then it was MVP with regurg. repair for that with the Alfieri technique in 2001, but failed in 2006. In 2007 went to CC and had a porcine valve put in and now I have severe mitral stenosis. Tomorrow I will be getting my mechancial valve at Univ. of Penn.
Adam Pick My thoughts are with you Patricia. By the way, who is your surgeon at U Penn?
On January 10, 2015...
Don LaPorte posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam,
Thanks for intro into Baylor Plano, I have a 'heart clinic' on Tuesday, which at minimum will be a more updated Echo.(last one 4 months ago) Surgery still planned by Dr. Gillinov Feb 5 in Cleveland.
Elaine Foster posted a note for Adam that says:
Just wondering why my post yesterday to my journal did not show up on the patient news feed? Also, today I posted a note on patient news feed, and i don't see it either.
Adam Pick Hey Elaine, Hmmmmm. Have you checked your privacy settings? It sounds like you may have "opted out" f ... Read more
Adam Pick Hey Elaine, Hmmmmm. Have you checked your privacy settings? It sounds like you may have "opted out" from having your posts in the news feed. To have your posts in the news feed, please turn that setting to "Off". Let me know if that helps. Also... Guess where I'll be next week? Yep. I'm coming to Indianapolis to film an educational video with your surgeon, Dr. Gerdisch. Needless to say, I'm really looking forward to this! For the patients in our community, here's a link to help you learn about Dr. Gerdisch. Plus, there's a great video about mitral valve repair at https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/surgeons/dr-Marc-Gerdisch-Indianapolis-Indiana.php.
See patient reviews, physician biography and videos of Dr. Marc Gerdisch, heart surgeon, with phone number and address in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Elaine Foster Thank you Adam. That was the problem. All fixed. That is exciting to hear about the video you are ... Read more
Elaine Foster Thank you Adam. That was the problem. All fixed. That is exciting to hear about the video you are taping. One thing to keep in mind, since you are a California guy---it's really cold in Indiana right now, so pack plenty of layers! I had an appt with Dr. Gerdisch next week, but they changed it until the following week--hmmm wonder if your video is the reason? Thanks again for this website. God Bless you.
Don LaPorte posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam,
Thank you so much for putting together this Site. I live in Dallas area. I am currently scheduled for mitral valve repair Feb 5 in Cleveland with Dr. Gillinov(who I think you have met). In another post you mentioned several great surgeons in the Dallas area. Do you have any thoughts to share on traveling for the surgery, as the nurse in Cleveland advised I am fine as long as I stay for week past surgery as a precaution. I have a local GP and cardiologist, but what is your experience on follow on care in case of complications.(the biggest complication I am hearing is Atrial Fibrillation, which appears very common). Would I just be able to go to Baylor for follow on care if needed in your experience?
Thanks,
Don
Adam Pick Hi Don, If you type "Travel" into the search bar, you'll find several references but here's 25+ patie ... Read more
I just received a great question from Carol about traveling for heart valve surgery. She writes, I have concerns about choosing a hospital that is highly re
Adam Pick And, here's a great success story of Patrick, who traveled from Brazil to the Cleveland Clinic to be ... Read more
One of the critcal learnings from my heart valve surgery experience was: The patient (or their caregiver) must, at times, be tenacious. We must, at times,
On December 28, 2014...
Clay Rowe posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam. Thanks for providing a place for us to get info and support.
Did I misunderstand one of your replies to someone that you're looking at AVR again? Are you up for a redo?
Adam Pick Hi Clay, No redo going on here. Just celebrated my 9th anniversary. Doing GREAAAAAAT! as Tony the Tig ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Clay, No redo going on here. Just celebrated my 9th anniversary. Doing GREAAAAAAT! as Tony the Tiger would say.
On December 23, 2014...
alan holland posted a note for Adam that says:
Hey Adam, saw where you mentioned your left ventricle had dilated before surgery and was back to normal at 3 years postop. Note that my right ventricle was noted to be "very severely dilated" immediately preop before my tricuspid valve repair at Cleveland Clinic on 11/20/14. After surgery, Dr. Gillinov said the heart muscle looked good and was not scarred (believe he used the phrase "no fibrosis") and expected right ventricle to fully reverse remodel if valve keeps regurgitation low. A question or two:
1. How much dilation did you have?
2. Did it take the full 3 years to return to normal?
Note I also have some mild bradycardia/AV node dissociation that seems to have come on in the last year and I suspect the heart dilation may have disrupted the conduction system of heart. Maybe, with any luck, this will improve with additional reverse remodeling?
Merry Christmas,
Alan
Adam Pick Alan, Great topic! I'd have to go back and look at my pre-op echo. In the meantime, here's a little m ... Read more
I just received a great question from Sandra about heart valve disease, enlarged hearts and valve surgery. Sandra writes, Hi Adam, I read that you had an en
On December 17, 2014...
tina fluhrer posted a note for Adam that says:
Hi Adam, I saw Joey today ~ so nice to see him. ~ Day 2 post op. He walked the floor and shaved. He loved the shave! He is weak and I was only able to see him a moment. Just got a call that they will keep him in icu over night. Monitoring an irregular heart beat. Is this a typical challenge?
tina fluhrer I actually do not know if it is a irregular heart beat.... they said a concern came up on the echocar ... Read more
tina fluhrer I actually do not know if it is a irregular heart beat.... they said a concern came up on the echocardiogram. They ordered the move out of icu and then moments later changed their mind. ~ and just now a call came in as I was typing...........they will try to regulate his heart beat with medication and if that does not work they will need to put in a stint.......whew..................
tina fluhrer I just watched your video on afib...... Good info and timely for me. :)
On November 26, 2014...
Ole Bore posted a note for Adam that says:
Hey there! Thanks for everything you do the community! I just joined your site today, but have been reading for about a month. When signing up, I went to edit my story. But, for some reason, I'm unable to save my surgeon's name, hospital, date and story. Any ideas?
Adam Pick Hi Ole, Great to meet you as well. Thanks for the kind words about this project. And, I'm glad you ju ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Ole, Great to meet you as well. Thanks for the kind words about this project. And, I'm glad you just signed up. Fyi, I just tried this and had no issues making those changes. Are you on a PC or a Mac? What browser are you using? Thanks! We'll figure this out.
Ole Bore PC and IE11. I was able to make the updates using my iPhone 6 and iOS 8.
Adam Pick Thanks. I'll pass this along to our programming team. Sorry for the inconvenience Ole! Glad to see it ... Read more
Adam Pick Thanks. I'll pass this along to our programming team. Sorry for the inconvenience Ole! Glad to see it worked with the iPhone. If you need anything else, please let me know.
Ole Bore Will do! And again, thanks for everything you do for this community.
On November 23, 2014...
Tammy Pilcher posted a note for Adam that says:
Adam, I want to wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving! Your website and book will definitely be on my list of things I'm most thankful for this year! Most grateful, Tammy
Joan Napier Adam, I agree with what Tammy said. You, your book and your website have been a godsend during this c ... Read more
Joan Napier Adam, I agree with what Tammy said. You, your book and your website have been a godsend during this challenging time of HVS. Thank you for all that you do to help us and our families. And a very Happy Thanksgiving to you and you family! Joan
Adam Pick Thanks Tammy and Joan!!!! You two just made my day. Thanks so much for the encouraging and inspiratio ... Read more
Adam Pick Thanks Tammy and Joan!!!! You two just made my day. Thanks so much for the encouraging and inspirational words. Again, many, many, many thanks! Happy Gobble Gobble! Adam
Ruth Valenzuela Thank you Adam and Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.
On November 22, 2014...
Mary posted a note for Adam that says:
I am impressed, you did post your Halloween picture! Hope you and your son had a blast!!!
On November 17, 2014...
Jim O'Brien posted a note for Adam that says:
Hello Adam, I met my surgeon for the first time today. He said that he had interacted with you on some things and that he thought your site was excellent. His name is Dr. Jeremy London in Savannah, Georgia. Do you remember him? I hope you and your family are well this almost Thanksgiving season.
Adam Pick Hey Jim, Hmmmmm. I don't remember meeting Dr. London in Georgia. I don't have the best memory. Maybe ... Read more
Adam Pick Hey Jim, Hmmmmm. I don't remember meeting Dr. London in Georgia. I don't have the best memory. Maybe we connected at a conference? Sounds like you had a good meeting with him?
On November 5, 2014...
Elaine Foster posted a note for Adam that says:
Just wanted to let you know I met with Dr. Marc Gerdisch yesterday. He is a very knowledgeable surgeon. As I was leaving his nurse handed me your book! I told her I already have it, and have learned alot, but I took the one she offered to give to a fishing buddy of my husband who had AVS. Thanks again for your work to keep this site up and running. It is such a blessing.
Celia Werner posted a note for Adam that says:
If you are ever on the west coast of Florida I would definitely would like to Thank you in person for the best book ever written. I Live in the Pinellas County area.
Adam Pick Tom, That was awesome. I'm amazed they were able to achieve an 85% forecast success rate for the test ... Read more
Adam Pick Tom, That was awesome. I'm amazed they were able to achieve an 85% forecast success rate for the test group.
Needless to say, that is very, very, very encouraging as a means to prevent unwanted (and potentially tragic) cardiac events.
Thanks for sharing!
Adam
P.S. No need to ever thank me. It's an honor and privilege to be a part of this community.
On October 28, 2014...
Joaquim Cimoes posted a note for Adam that says:
Dear Adam, I would like to know more about Ross operation in children, could you help me? We are waiting the homograft to Joaquim.
Adam Pick Hi Renata, Here is some great information about the Ross Procedure that should help you. Fyi, I had t ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Renata, Here is some great information about the Ross Procedure that should help you. Fyi, I had the Ross Procedure performed almost 9 years ago. It's not for everybody. But, the procedure has been very successful for me and many other patients in our community.
Thanks for creating this website. It is a tremendous resource.
Amy