About Me (In My Own Words)
My heart story began a little more than 3 years ago. On November 11, 2018 I suffered a TIA. I recall feeling fine until the right side of my face, a line right down the middle, went numb along with my right had and foot. My reaction was a bit numb, as well. I was scared but remained relatively calm focusing my attention on my higher power and gratitude for a life well lived. Fortunatlely, the CAT scan showed no major damage and I was wheeled into an observation room for cardiac monitoring. Within 8 hours my symptoms had subsided and I was discharged to return for an echo and stress test at a later date. Results of the test showed new vascular issues with a nearly occluded left subclavian artery and a 40% blockage in my right carotid artery. Interestingly, I was told I have an extra carotid branch. The first of several "abnormalities" to be discovered. The resulting echo showed mild to moderate aortic stenosis and murmur which we'd monitor. Skip forward to the fall of 2021 when I scheduled both vascular diagnostics and an echocardiogram. I was asymptomatic and hoping to get the "see you next year" report.
Vascular diagnostics showed an increase in carotid blockage to 60%. Recommendation was made to monitor a 6 month intervals. OK. Then the echo.
As I watched the screen during the echo even I could notice something looked wrong. A mass was clearly visible flapping along with the mitral valve. The technician, of course, made no comment, but I was immediately ushered off to see the cardiologist. He told me he was seeing what looked like a fibroblastoma and this was something that needed attention as it could break free and cause a major stroke. He told me these tumors are on the rare side. Great, I thought. He scheduled a TEE for further diagnosis.
My first TEE didn't go as planned. They gave me Fentanyl to help calm me for the insertion of the ultrasound tube. Even with the throat numbing spray my body was not responding as expected. I have one heck of a gag reflex. The test was cancelled and rescheduled. The second TEE was successful. This time gave me propofol. 3 seconds later I was out. I was pleased the test went well but concerned why the Fentanyl didn't seem to work the first go round. Was I heading into OHS with some abnormal resistance to opioids? As of this writing, I'm still worried about this. I've discussed with my surgeon and he reassured me of the options.
The TEE showed the tumor was fairly large and definitely causing a lot of turbulence. There was also a lot of turbulence associated with the aortic valve which showed the stenosis had also progressed. Not yet severe, but definitely progressing more rapidly.
We're a little ahead of the need for a valve replacement, but the tumors are driving surgery. Once you know something like this it's time to take care of it. I'm grateful we found this before a catastrophe and prayerful the tumors will stay in place for the surgery.
Next up would be a heart cath. The procedure went smoothly and amazingly showed absolutely no hardening on the coronary arteries. This baffled everybody with my other vascular issues. Thank you, God. I'm grateful. Side note, I did have a bad reaction to the contrast, rash everywhere and swelling. Not to disregard I took myself to the hospital where I spent a couple of days being treated and monitored. All ended well with the symptoms subsiding completely. No more shellfish for Jay.
So, here I am. I've taken care of things and prepared as best I can for home recovery. Surgery is scheduled for February 15. The plan is to replace the aortic valve and excise the tumor. My surgeon believes he should be able to remove the tumor and spare the mitral valve. He is planning a modified sternotomy. Less is more.
I'm numb, but resolved to be at peace and show strength and courage to my family, to this special family of warriors and angels. Thank you all. God bless and keep you.
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Buford, GA
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My surgery date is:
March 8, 2022
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I was diagnosed with:
Aortic Stenosis
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My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Replacement
Mitral Valve Repair
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My surgeon is:
Dr. Alan Wolfe
