John's Journal

In 2021 I went for a physical and learned shortly afterward that I had two different, but related, heart issues: an ascending aortic aneurysm and aortic valve stenosis. As I was completely asymptomatic, both conditions were monitored for a couple years and the valve got to the point where something needed to be done. I found Dr. Joseph Lamelas, MD at the University of Miami who has pioneered a minimally invasive way to deal with both issues (The Miami Method. Google it). Last Friday I checked in for my surgery and returned home Monday with a new valve and rebuilt aorta. While this was not the way I would have planned to spend Father's Day, I feel fortunate and blessed to have gone through the experience. The staff at the University of Miami Hospital was exceptional, and made my entire time there absolutely the best that it could be given the circumstances.

For those facing surgery for similar issues, you will get through it. Go into it controlling the things you can control, and set yourself up for the best recovery possible. Give the rest over to the ones trained to to the work.

Here's to life on the other side. I cannot wait to get to live it!