Brenda's Guestbook

Hi Brenda, My name is Jane and I will be in Richester this Thursday for more heart tests probably as you are having your surgery. Who is your surgeon? How has your experience been at Mayo so far? I have aortic valve stenosis too. Similarly to you, it went along not changing much for several years and then all of a sudden deteriorated quickly. I hope and pray that your procedure goes well and if you feel up to answering, I will look forward to hearing from you.

Good luck on your uo coming surgery, it sounds like uour mind us in the right place and you will feel and be so much better after surgery and recovery. 🙏

Hi Brenda I had a replaced aortic nov 2014. I just want to tell you I was shocked at how QUICKLY you recover. I personally have a TINY scar about 2.5 inches long. I opted for a tissue valve because I didn't want to be on blood thinners and tested every 2 weeks (for me its a quality of life issue). I have some suggestions. They never showed me how to use the little apparatus that improves your breathing. I suggest you get it asap and use it ahead of the surgery - see how it feels to blow hard into it and get a bottom line. For the hospital I took comfy headphones and carefully chose some medative music. it was a life saver for me - it helped me cut out all that was around me. I didn't walk enough once i got home. Having a 'few' dedicated walking buddys is helpful. Ahead of time learn how to use dictation on your phone and computer well, because typing is oddly painful/uncomfortable for a while and staying in touch is a must. The recovery is very manageable. By the sounds of it you will feel like new. Your photo reminded me of myself all the best