About Me (In My Own Words)
This August I will be 70. When I was 30 I was diagnosed with Mitral Valve Prolapse during a routine employee physical. I was advised to get a full cardiac workup which I did. After a 12-lead EKG, echo and 24 hour Holter monitor I was told that I had classic Mitral Valve Prolapse aka a Floppy Mitral Valve.
From age 30 to age 62 the only thing this meant to me was watching the face of the MD using a stethoscope. I'd wait, then smile, "It sloshes around impressively doesn't it?"
Seven years ago my PCP said, "I think there's something more going on here." and sent me for an echo which led me to a referral to a Cardiologist. For the past 7 years, every 6 months I check in for the echo, EKG and my Cardiologist's review of the results. Every 6 months it has been the same. I have considerable regurgitation. I have a very strong heart. I have no symptoms.I have no afib, no lightheadedness. I hike at 9,200 ft without any difficulty.
About a year ago I discovered this heart valve community. As a former Reference Librarian for me this is the Mother Lode of heart valve surgery information.
I bought Adam's book. I've followed many of the Patient News Feed Posts. As a result, when the time comes I have a short list of surgeons and hospitals. I have a Word doc "Helpful Tips" that keeps getting longer.
I am continually touched by the courage, support and openness of the HeartValveSurgery community.
A thousand thanks Adam for seeing the need and making it happen.
May 11, 2018 Six-month Echo and no change. Zero heart enlargement. Considerable regurgitation. Since my normal heart rate is 80-90 my cardiologist suggested we try to slow it down a bit. He prescribed a very small amount of a beta blocker. Other than that he wished me a good summer and book another appointment in 6 months.
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Tucson
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My surgery date is:
August 12, 2021
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I was diagnosed with:
Mitral Regurgitation
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My surgery was:
Mitral Valve Replacement
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My surgeon is:
Dr. Matthew Slater MD
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My hospital is:
St. Charles Hospital Bend OR
