Joey's Posts

Hello all! First an apology. I have been very unfaithful to this community. I am actually amazed its been so long since I have posted. This community supported me and I should be giving back and supporting all of the folks prepping for their surgeries. I will try to do better! Hopefully, this will be an encouragement to many. Its been 7 years and it amazes me. I had my aortic valve and ascending aorta replaced at Duke with Dr. Jeff Gaca. I got the Edwards Inspiris Resilia Valve. Recently had all my tests/scans and everything looks "perfect" in the words of my cardiologist. I have gained too much weight even though I am still exercising regularly but I am going to work on the diet side of the equation and drop about 25 over the next 6 months. I have transitioned from running to power walking over the last year or so, mostly because of my knee. Cardio-wise, I can still run. I typically get 40 minutes to an hour in at least 3 times a week. Still working but see retirement approaching. Enjoying my grandson who is turning 2 in a month. To those that have just been through it: Keep the faith! It gets better and better and truly will be in the rearview mirror sooner than you think! For those approaching your procedure: Do not fear! I know its easier said than done. The surgeons are so incredibly blessed with great skill. I was so well cared for leading up to and after surgery. Do your prescribed rehab! I cannot stress enough how important this is. I didn't miss a rehab session and wished I had another few weeks of it, honestly. I started mixing in my own workouts toward the end of rehab so I transitioned over pretty easily. Thanks to all the heart warriors here that encouraged me, hope you are all doing great!!!.... and thanks to Adam for his vision starting this wonderfully motivating and comforting place. Love and prayers to all!

Greetings, heart warriors!! It has been quite a while. I missed last years update and must apologize for my hiatus. I have no real excuse. Just busy with life and becoming a grandpa recently (or more accurately a "Papa Joe"). I pray all of you are doing well and those approaching their procedure have a peace about it. Hard for me to believe but 5 years ago this past June, I had my aortic valve replaced along with my ascending aorta. I have the Edwards Inspiris Resilia Aortic Valve. It was done at Duke with Dr. Jeff Gaca. Just had an echo and all is normal and working fine. Still getting out for (almost) daily walks or run/walks intervals. Now I have a 20 month old Golden Retriever that goes with me. 😊 Trying to get 3-4 miles each time. Gearing up for a 5K next month and then a 4.1 miler the week of Thanksgiving, which I think is always so perfect because I truly am thankful my defect was discovered and I am able to complete a 4.1 mile race for what will be the 5th time now since my replacement. Don't fear the procedure. Look forward to the improvements and attack your rehab (always do the prescribed rehab - so important!) You'll be amazed at how quickly its in your rearview and you are feeling better. Take care everyone!! I will honestly try to not be so scarce around here :-))

3 Year anniversary! Well, I'm late again, as usual. BUT - It was roughly 38 months ago that I had my Aortic Valve and Root replaced. The last year I have felt very good. I have some PVC/PAC beats. I had a few hours of afib not too long ago and they put me on a blood thinner. I'm actually hoping that they will let me come off of it soon since it was a short episode. I'm still running. Mostly indoors since its so hot but I get outside in the evenings. I've run a few 5K's and have another on the schedule in November. Playing some golf. Might pick up pickle ball soon since that doesn't require as much movement as tennis :-) I went with a bioprosthetic so I know there is a lifespan to the valve. I am hoping to get 12-15 years out of it. I set myself up to be able to have a TAVR replacement when the time comes. I am excited about the advancements in that area of heart valve surgery. I check in from time to time and hope and pray you all are doing well. This is the best place for anyone preparing for heart valve surgery. I cannot tell you how much information, advice, comfort and confidence I received from all the wonderful people on this site. I'm very grateful to Adam for his passion for helping people. Starting and maintaining this site is a true blessing to so many. Keep the faith!