Mitral Regurgitation, Joined February 27, 2022
Mitral Regurgitation
Joined February 27, 2022
Karen says, "Scheduled to have my heart catheter on April Fool’..."
Katherine says, "Since my AVR in 2023, I struggle with my vision. I ..."
Marie says, "I was scheduled to have a mitral valve repair or ..."
Dr. Vinay Badhwar is a heart valve expert having performed over 3,000 heart valve repair and replacement operations during his career.
I am thankful I found HVS.com after my diagnosis. Because of HVS.com and the wonderful resources and support it offers, I went into surgery optimistic, prepared, and confident. 5 days in the hospital flew by. There was a lot of resting, walking the halls, learning how to get in and out of bed and chairs, and the ever-present spirometer- every waking hour!
I recall my first glorious shower at home, the exhausting walks several times daily around my neighborhood, and feeling that absolutely everything tired me. Would I ever get back to "normal?" My appetite was temporarily non-existent, although oddly, I craved clam chowder and pineapple, of all things. . . Generally not my top food choices. After a Monday surgery, that Friday clam chowder at the hospital was the bomb though, and really got me hooked!
Cardiac rehab was delayed a bit due to a skin cancer diagnosis and a couple minor surgeries on my shoulder and face. Once I started, rehab was exhausting, but each week, I could do more, and I gained confidence in my abilities. Prior to my diagnosis, I'd run regularly, and been an avid gym goer. Post-surgery, I was winded doing a 15 minute mile on the treadmill! Week by week, I got stronger. For better or worse, my appetite and taste returned.
Gradually, life has returned to pretty much "normal" but better. Yesterday, my cardiologist called me with the results of my latest echo. "No sign of regurgitation. Everything looks great. Good as new!"
I am so thankful for my amazing surgeon, Dr. Asad Shah and his team, and all the staff at Hoag Hospital, Newport Beach. They treated me like family during my stay and have been beside me during my recovery journey. In addition, thank you to Adam and all the warriors here on HVS.com for your support and encouragement. It really does make a difference. I am grateful to each and every one of you. And to everyone awaiting surgery, use this awesome resource to educate yourself and get support. You can do it! Best to All!