Hi, I'm actually the mom of a 24 year old son scheduled for an aortic valve repair. He was diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve at 19. We knew surgery would ...Read more
Hi, I'm actually the mom of a 24 year old son scheduled for an aortic valve repair. He was diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve at 19. We knew surgery would be "down the road", but thought the road would be a little longer. Although he's still asymptomatic, his aortic regurgitation is worsening and his left ventricle is starting to enlarge. Consensus between his cardiologist and the surgeons we've seen is that there's no benefit in delaying surgery. It appears his valve is able to be repaired, and he's scheduled for surgery at Mount Sinai with Dr. Stewart on January 13.
I'm hoping this site helps me to help him. He's been very healthy and is very active. Despite all the appointments and consults, he really has no idea what's in store for him. At 24, you think you're invincible. I, on the other hand, am the mom who, as a nurse, knows enough to be a little crazy. This site has given me a lot of guidance as we've started this process. I hope to continue to learn from all of you.
Tammy Pilcher Welcome Lissa, I too had a bicuspid aortic valve that was replaced on Oct. 31 this year. I've done r ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Welcome Lissa, I too had a bicuspid aortic valve that was replaced on Oct. 31 this year. I've done really well. Being the mother of two sons, ages 24 and 21, I know it would have been a lot harder for me if it were one of them going through this. So, I can really feel for you! You are welcome to read my journal and I will help in any way I can. I'll keep your son and you in my prayers. Best wishes, Tammy
Tammi Gunwall Lissa, welcome to this amazing heart community! You will most certainly find much guidance here, but ... Read more
Tammi Gunwall Lissa, welcome to this amazing heart community! You will most certainly find much guidance here, but just as important is the support, prayers and rallying together. I suggest getting a copy of Adam's book (found on this site) for your son to read. It is an easy read but very informative. Adam speaks to the patient as a patient himself (and medical research) so it's very eye opening to the steps that he/you will soon come upon. I have made all my family members read it (including my two oldest kids 23 & 22yrs old) so there are hopefully no surprises. Best wishes to you both!
Cris Dykeman Definitely get Adam Pick's book!!! I mad a decision (that was highly supported by my doctors) to no ... Read more
Cris Dykeman Definitely get Adam Pick's book!!! I mad a decision (that was highly supported by my doctors) to not Google things. This book was the only thing i read, although i asked a ton of questions, and it truly helped prepare me.
The one statement that stuck w me from the docs was that tge younger you are the more it will hurt, but the quicker you. will heal.
I am from: Trumbull, , CT
The one statement that stuck w me from the docs was that tge younger you are the more it will hurt, but the quicker you. will heal.