About Me (In My Own Words)
This is my husband’s story, but I am here seeking support—something I desperately need right now. A few years ago, after beginning to experience symptoms, my husband was diagnosed with mild mitral valve regurgitation and prolapse. By November 2024, he was dealing with significant stress and high blood pressure issues. In December, his cardiologist updated his diagnosis to moderate to severe prolapse. Then, on December 22nd, he experienced severe chest pains and shortness of breath, and we rushed to the ER. Within 12 hours, we were devastated to learn that he was in acute congestive heart failure. One of the leaflets of his mitral valve had flipped open, causing blood and fluid to flood his lungs.
On Christmas Eve, his condition rapidly worsened, and we arranged for him to be transferred to a better hospital—Saint Louis University. By 4:30 AM Christmas morning, his oxygen levels plummeted, and he was intubated and sedated. By 11 AM, he was undergoing emergency open-heart surgery to replace his mitral valve. It was a terrifying Christmas, but ultimately, we received the best possible gift: he survived.
He was released a day before his 40th birthday. Now he’s home, and we are slowly adjusting to life after his surgery with our 12-year-old. He is in good spirits and focused on recovery and eventually returning to work. As someone with anxiety, the past few weeks have been incredibly challenging for me, and I find myself especially worried about the long-term effects and dangers of being on Warfarin for the rest of his life.
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Maplewood
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My surgery date is:
December 25, 2024
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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. William Ogle
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My hospital is:
Saint Louis University
