Heidi's Journal

Ok 2 weeks ago tomorrow they cancelled my surgery and now tomorrow the day is finally here if all goes well will be in surgery at this time tomorrow. So many mixed emotions and feeling disappointed in myself because I felt so much stronger emotionally and physically last time and not so much this time. I realized though that I'm not the only one who has been here and shined through..so knowing where all of you are or have been or will be in the future I know I can do this too and together we are so strong!! They call us "heart warriors" for a reason! Let nothing stop me now on that note time to holler "Cowgirl Up!"

Was supposed to have surgery today but they cancelled last night a 7pm I was already in bed because I thought I was waking up at 4 am. I was already showered up with special soap...,hair braided .bag was packed...partner took day off... I guess this happens all too often. Finally got new date today 4/17.

Has anyone had TAVR in their 50's? I thought I decided on valve but family input has been making question my decision. I decided on Bio Valve with TAVR as needed in the future. Would appreciate any thoughts on TAVR thought this is usually for  those over 60 or for high risk patients???

Saw cardiac surgeon today  for my severe aortic stenosis no exact date yet for surgery yet but will be some time next month.  I decided on bio- prosthetic valve(via OHS) vs. mechanical valve due to that fact of not wanting to be on blood thinners for life, and that the mechanical valve you might hear it clicking all the time, and I already know I need to have additional surgery in the future to fix nasal valve collapse and will need some dental work also that may require me not to be able to take blood thinners for awhile and would have to face the risk of blood clotting problems ; In addition, I want to be able to lead an active lifestyle and not have to watch my diet as I love my greens. LOL But, In the future I will be able to have TAVR procedure as well and maybe by then medical technology might have so much more available to us.  It is a personal choice for everyone though.  Just thought I'd share my thoughts and that by doing so might help someone else understand that there are many choices available to pick from when trying to decide the  one that is best for you.

On another note, he did think that all the aches and pains and cold feet I have been having is most likely from my heart valve problem and the chest pain I have been having is probably to due the severe aortic stenosis and even though I have no blockage sometimes it can cause a pinching feeling too.  Hope this insight helps others.

My journey began back in July when I first went to ER because I just didn't feel right at that time couldn't find anything wrong with my heart other than my heart enzymes (troponin) level were elevated even my echocardiogram came back normal. I was referred to cardiologist and finally in November I was told I have severe aortic stenosis. Everyday since then has been such a struggle because my body aches all over more and more everyday and feet get overly cold and most days find it even hard to walk and not sure why. Unless, the body flow throughout my body is being reduced. I guess today I am really having a hard time trying to endure what my body is going through because I'm not actually sure what is causing my symptoms. I'm scared and overwhelmed and hoping when I see cardiac surgeon he can shed some light if the symptoms I am having are justified. Just needed to vent and get all of my words out because I think we tend to keep alot of our emotions in not wanting to upset those around us so thanks for those who read this and understand.

Does anyone have a rough idea on how long wait is for surgery once decision has been made on what type of valve you have? I know each person's experience is different just thought I would try to great rough idea any feeback appreciated.

Finally got an appointment with Cardiac Surgeon for 2/13. Feeling a little anxious because I don't have the best insurance but with the help of this site was able to find a little feedback. Hopefully I will be in good hands when I have to have surgery. Based on former heart warrior review.

Patient Recommendations (1)

"This surgeon was excellent. Fully explained the procedure and most importantly had the respect of the staff at the hospital. Any time a new nurse came in, they were told 'this is Dr. Biswas' patient' and I got excellent care. My results were excellent, and follow-up was excellent as well. Would recommend highly."Posted by Dan Stanick, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/10/2017

What a small world. Just found out recently that my neighbor is going to have surgery on Wednesday due to Mitral Valve Prolapse. Just thought I'd put some words out there in spirit fo rhim and hoping we could send some good vibes his way to wish him well on his upcoming surgery and recovery. His name is Andy.

Good News!! Had angiogram yesterday happy to report no blockages or anything ill findings with heart. Just confirmed heart valve needs to be replaced. I was worried about angiogram but wasn't a big deal but meds they gave to relax me knocked me out for the rest of the day...slept for 12 hours. Now just have to wait for authorization to come through to meet with cardiac surgeon...happy to being one step closer to getting the heart into better shape.

Just wanted to say I think it is amazing as I scroll through all the News Feeds and see the flooding of kind words from so many people supporting each other and the docs say there is something wrong with are hearts!! Lol We are amazing.

FFELING FRUSTATED ....was trying to figure out why I went to ER back in July with chest pain and when they did Echo ultrasound they found no aortic stenosis in either Mitral valve or aortic valve ...now fast forward to today 6 months later Cardiologist says I have severe aortic stenosis. Anyway, thanks for letting me vent. Just trying to be patient for Angio and Chest CT.