Michael's Journal

Has anyone had valve replacement in Sarasota, FL area? My 80 yr old uncle, in the hospital now with CHF, needs fairly urgent mitral and aortic replaced.

If you are athletic and are curious about life after OHS, then read some of the inspiring stories from my friend, Dave Watkins' Ironheart Foundation website, http://www.ironheartfoundation.org/members/

University Hospitals of Cleveland running a commercial in which they profile my heart journey. https://www.facebook.com/public/Michael-Shaughnessy. See post from Jan 24,2016.

I ask for prayers for the family of my friend Jim. He had AVR just 9 months ago and sadly died of complications from Afib last week. His wife is having a very hard time this holiday season. We are all fighters, but the reality is always there.

I received a Medtronic Freestyle AV (tissue valve). This is a nonstented valve. Essentially it is pure porcine (pig) and not fabricated from other tissues. I began light running 4-6 weeks after surgery and was putting in some heavier miles for me (>25/week) by 6 months. I ran several 5Ks in the first year and moved up to half marathons in the second. My first triathlons were in year two, along with an MS-100 bike ride. I had a set back in year three after getting hit by a car on my bike. I've battled through nonsurgical means of healing, but the fractured collarbone just wont heal. I was able to compete in 4 triathlons, a half marathon, and last weekends 10-miler; but tomorrow morning I go back to the OR for a complex repair, titanium plate, and bone graft. I strive to thrive and will persevere.

I am a 47 year old father, physician , athlete. I had OHS for bicuspid AV and ascending aortic aneurysm 4 years ago. Since then I have become more active and thankful for my second chance at life. My aneurysm was 6 cm at discovery, long past the wait and see size. I am lucky to be alive. Before my surgery, I was an average runner. Now I run almost every day. I have competed in half marathons, triathlons, 10Ks, and 5Ks. The diagnosis doesn't end the life you know, it inspires you to create a life of gratitude. We are all capable of more than we know. I was selected as a 2015 Medtronic Global Hero ,www.http:/Medtronic.com/global heroes/ . If you need inspiration, these are the people with the message. Every breath after heart surgery is a gift, embrace them all. The journey is not easy, but so worth it.