After Surgical Stroke & Three Heart Valve Replacements, Kirk’s Triathlon Passion Continues!
By Adam Pick on September 21, 2010
I just received an extraordinary email about Kirk Rose from his daughter, Angela. If anybody needs inspiration before or after heart valve surgery, I encourage you to read this:
Adam-
I just came across your website and noted that you mention Team Scar Trek of Oregon. So you know, my father was the organizer of this group and is currently on the comeback from his THIRD heart valve replacement.
Exactly three months and one day after his last surgery, Dad completed a triathlon and stood on the podium for his age group (60+). Since then, he has competed in 12 more races (from sprints to Olympic distances) and placed in the top 3 – in every event.
Just six months before his last surgery, Dad completed the Ironman Arizona in Tempe as our whole family cheered him on. A new bovine valve, a Dacron implant, a stroke during surgery and weeks of struggle – my Dad continues to inspire me as the bravest man I know.
Kirk Rose With Family – Thanksgiving, 2009
As Kirk recently told me, “It has honestly been a tough go, as I suffered from a stroke during the surgery and my left side has some residual problems. However, Triathlons have been a big part of my life and I enjoy the sport.”
To date, my dad has participated in 13 Triathlons since receiving his SORIN Bovine Pericardial Xenograph and Dacron implant. As part of his training, Kirk also completed 8 road runs — from a 5k to a half marathon. In April 2010, Dad also completed the 60-mile Metric Century Cookie Monster Bike Ride. Just last weekend, Dad competed in the Aluminum Man Triathlon here in Oregon. He took first place in his age group.
I believe Kirk hopes to someday conquer the Ironman challenge again. I hope to cheer wildly as he crosses the finish line!
Angela
Written by Adam Pick
- Patient & Website Founder
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Terry says on September 21st, 2010 at 6:06 pm |
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I wish Kirk the VERY BEST! |
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Bill says on September 21st, 2010 at 8:54 pm |
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Keep on truckin’ Kirk! |
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Joseph says on September 24th, 2010 at 1:40 pm |
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Dear Angela, What an incredible story. What an incredible man. The story referencing your Dad has got be the most inspirational story I’ve read thus far. Perhaps this is his purpose here on earth; to be an inspiration to all of us whom go after him into the OR. May I ask? You said that he had three [3] heart valve surgeries to date. may I ask how this was possible and in what time frame? I was under the impression that opening the sternum twice is not necessarily a safe thing to do. Was it the same valve? I must say that I am so, so impressed with his outcome. Please tell me more . . . Gratefully, Joseph |
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Katie says on September 30th, 2010 at 12:42 pm |
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That’s fantastic but I am very jealous! Take care |
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Joseph says on October 11th, 2010 at 6:37 am |
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Dear Angela, Not sure if you received my comment on your dad as I have not received any response to my query about his condition. I’ll send it again: Dear Angela, What an incredible story. What an incredible man. The story referencing your Dad has got be the most inspirational story I’ve read thus far. Perhaps this is his purpose here on earth; to be an inspiration to all of us whom go after him into the OR. May I ask? You said that he had three [3] heart valve surgeries to date. may I ask how this was possible and in what time frame? I was under the impression that opening the sternum twice is not necessarily a safe thing to do. Was it the same valve? I must say that I am so, so impressed with his outcome. Please tell me more . . . Camelot47@aol.com Gratefully, JosephPS. I go for my evaluation today. I wish I could hear them say, No Surgery! |
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Greg Betlej says on October 11th, 2010 at 1:52 pm |
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Adam.I’ve had aortic valve surgery at 61,last dec.Recently an eye Dr.told me after an MRI.that I had a T.I.A.during surgery affecting my vision.I can still drive thankfully.Do you know if this happens often.My energy level has not returned and I am still depressed.Thanks for your site.Greg Betlej |
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kirk rose says on September 4th, 2011 at 10:37 am |
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Greg, Sorry I did not get back to you sooner, i do not often look at the blog. Depression? Suffered after all 3 surgeries, and have had to deal with this constantly since the last surgery 2+years ago. I suffered a stroke during the surgery and dealing with that has been a challenge. I find that getting out and exercising seems to be the only thing that can distract me enough to get some relief… maybe other activities could do the same… but exercise is what is available to me. |
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Greg Betlej says on September 4th, 2011 at 9:33 pm |
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Kirk.Thanks for the support.Watching the Three Stooges helps my mood.Looks like you have a beautiful family.Stay healthy.Greg Betlej |
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