Lisa's Posts

Lisa, if you are on facebook you might want to join the group "Hodgkin's lymphoma disease survival & late effects 1960-mid 2000's" where there are many like you. I had Hodgkin's in 1977 and heart valve surgery (aortic and mitral valves replaced, tricuspid repaired, pacemaker implanted) in 2015 due to the stenosis of my radiated heart. Your situation, like everyone's, is singular and personal. You need a surgeon who is familiar with radiated hearts and she/he will be able to guide you and deal with what they find when they see your heart. Sugery is not easy and recovery can be long when you have several valves worked on. I was exhausted and in discomfort for a few months. My heart is "fine" now, although I have had several cancers since then (more late effects from Hodgkin's). Take care.

Hi Lisa ,I'm in Mass also and I went to the Brigham but as Richard said, all of the hospitals in the Boston area are great. Start with who your doctor recommends and then get a few opinions. I got 3 before I chose. You need to be comfortable with who is doing your surgery. My doctors name was Prem Shaker, who is now at BI Lahey. He was magnificent. Let me know if you have any questions.. Best of luck.