About Me (In My Own Words)
Hello to all!
I was born with a bicuspid aortic valve and have slowly progressed from mild to very recently, severe aortic stenosis. I am 53 years old.
I presented with high blood pressure in my late 30’s, when they found my aortic coarctation. This was the cause of my blood pressure differential between upper and lower extremities. I began and have continued taking BP meds to control my blood pressure, and take lasix to control swelling in my ankles and feet. The coarctation was not large enough for surgery.
I began having symptoms a few years ago. I found it difficult to exercise due to shortness of breath, and began having tightness on my chest when going up inclines, in high altitude, or carrying heavy objects like groceries or luggage. I am always tired, even after a full night’s sleep.
About 2 years ago I was diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm in my ascending aorta.
Within the last 6 months I began having angina, migraine headaches, coughing, and mild palpitations. In October I was informed that my stenosis is now severe, and was referred to a cardiothoracic surgeon to discuss surgery.
We met for a consultation for surgery at Thanksgiving time. He wanted to proceed right after the holidays, but I asked if I could wait until the beginning of May because I’m a teacher and that would be right after state testing time, lol. He agreed as long as my symptoms don’t progress further.
I will be getting a resection of my aorta with a Dacron graft to repair the aneurysm, and my aorta will be replaced with a Freestyle bio-prosthetic root/valve, if the root is also dilated, which is suspected.
It is surreal to know surgery is now for real, but I am anxious to return to better health, and have the ability to hike, walk, bike, Zumba, and explore the world again.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. If I can help anyone in any way, or if you have any words of wisdom I would love to hear from you!
Update 3/19/24- So, I met with my cardiologist and surgeon today. My surgery date is 4/22/24. I’m getting an aortic valve/ root replacement with the Freestyle and an aortic aneurysm resection. They will clip the left atrial appendage if it’s the right shape to do so. They will also repair the mitral valve if needed. I feel relieved to know my date!
Update 5/14/24- My surgery went well. My aortic root and aortic valve were replaced with a Freestyle bio prosthesis. Also, my aortic aneurysm was replaced with a Dacron graft. My left appendage was too small to clip and mitral valve did not need to be repaired yet. I do have mild regurgitation of my mitral valve. Apparently my surgery is called a biological Bentall procedure.
Update 6/15/24- I am down 18 pounds starting cardiac rehab and vestibular therapy for vertigo on 6/17. I see my surgeon a 3rd time next month and I’m released to return to work on 7/22. That will be exactly 3 months since my surgery! I’m feeling great overall and sometimes forget I had the surgery I feel so great. My stamina is improving every day!
❤️Daneen
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Mesa, Arizona
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My surgery date is:
April 22, 2024
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I was diagnosed with:
Aortic Stenosis
Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Mitral Regurgitation
Aortic Aneurysm
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My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Replacement
Aortic Aneurysm Replacement
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My surgeon is:
Dr. Michael Maxwell
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My hospital is:
Banner Heart Hospital
