About Me (In My Own Words)
My story starts with a right ischemic stroke 3/16/2019. Thanks to quick response by the Hershey Medical Center Comprehensive Stroke Team, the deficits on my left side have resolved. So the search for the origin of the clot sucked out of my brain started. Enter...diagnosis of severely stenotic mitral valve thus producing the clot that got loose. The last 6 mos has been an amazing journey in healthcare. After being the nurse at the bedside for 45 years, I found myself on the receiving end of incredible care from every facet of the healthcare world. Truly humbling experience.
Prior to my stroke I had noticed getting winded with some exertion, but I chalked it up to age and a few more pounds than I should have had. Now I know this was all from this valve problem. My hypertension had been under control for many years and no murmurs detected on yearly physicals. Therefore I refer to my stroke as a "stroke of luck". Otherwise who knows how long the valve problem might have gone undetected and stressing my heart.
I began bridging with Lovenox this morning in preparation for my surgery in 3 days. Minimally invasive mitral valve replacement and left atrial appendage ligation. I'm told I will feel a great deal more energy post-op. Sure hope so...my husband has a list of crazy adventures for us, lol! I'll let you know how it all goes :-)
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Centreville, VIRGINIA
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My surgery date is:
September 9, 2019
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I was diagnosed with:
Mitral Stenosis
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My surgery was:
Mitral Valve Replacement
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My surgeon is:
Dr. Eric Sarin
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My hospital is:
Inova Fairfax Heart and Vascular Institute
