Steve's Guestbook

Hi Steve, First of all want to say congrats on getting your repair done! Sounds like your recovery is going well so far. I am new to this site, was just reading your story. It sounds like you had good doctors looking out for you, I was surprised to read that just out of the blue you had severe regurgitation. Did they say what caused it? I also need mitral valve repair, but am impatiently (no patience here, lol) waiting for my consult Nov 18. Any advice you have for me in preparing for consults and/or surgery? Wishing you a speedy recovery! Janelle

Good luck to you! I had the same type of surgery and yes, 5 days appears to be the norm for approval. If it should take longer, they'll work it out with the insurance company. Hang in there!

Hi Steve, I see you live in the same town I do! I commented on your last post also. I am curious to know if your cardiologist referred you to Northwestern in Chicago, since they are the best place for us to go if we need heart valve surgery. I know Northwestern in Huntley is a good Hospital, but going to a hospital where they do 1,000s of heart valve surgeries is very important. Just wanted to see if you've reached out to Northwestern in Chicago, since they really are the best choice for us. Dr. McArthy, Dr. Malaisrie, and a few others have many, many surgeries under their belt and that makes all the difference in outcomes for patience like us. My cardiologist I had in Barrington referred me to them when he found out my regurgitation had gone from mild to moderate//severe because he knew ot was the best choice for me. This all has happened since 2016, so I completely understand the axiety and just not being able to feel in control of your own life. It's hard to be in "wait" mode. I have moderate to severe tricuspid regurgitation as well as an aneurytic aortic artery that is 4.1. Tricuspid is very uncommon and is a little harder to figure out perfect timing for surgery, so I will be going back in November for a cardiac stress test and another echo in Chicago, (Bluhm cardiovascular institute) Can't hurt to get a second opinion either. I know it's stressful but it's worth it. Please keep me posted on your progress, and if you just need to talk, please do not hesitate to reach out. All the best, Kim

Hey Steve, welcome! You did just fine describing your story. Sorry you have to now be a member of our club but glad you found out about this issue now. You seem to be young which is an advantage. If you have questions please ask away, I’m sure one of our warriors will be answering them. Being anxious and scare is normal and as you have read some of our posts we have all been there. Let us know when your surgery date is and what procedure you are having. I will keep you in prayer for a successful surgery and speedy recovery. God bless you

Hey Steve, As the newest member of our patient community... Welcome!!! I hope the educational information and great people here will help guide you along your journey to a healthy heart! If you need anything, please let me know!