About Me (In My Own Words)
My gp detected my murmur 11 years ago and sent me to a cardiologist who diagnosed aortic stenosis stemming from a bicuspid aortic valve. He told me that eventually it would need to be replaced but likely not until I was in my 60s or 70s. I’m 56 and found out 3 weeks ago that it’s time. It was a shock to hear but I also think not knowing it was so imminent was a bit of a gift because, apart from my yearly checkups, I never thought about it at all. Since then, I’ve had my initial echo and blood work and this coming week a transesophogeal echo followed the next day by an angiogram. I don’t have a partner or other close family nearby other than 2 disabled brothers who depend on me greatly. It’s meant I’ve had to get my Will updated and call on good friends to be on hand when I’ll need help, something I’m not used to asking for. I’m also berating myself for not being in better shape for this surgery—I’m 50 lbs overweight. Maybe this was the wake-up call I needed—I only hope it won’t make for a rougher recovery. My Christian faith helps me in the low moments, and friends have been very supportive, so just trying to make positive changes now and stay in the moment. I’m so grateful to have found this community!
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Toronto, Canada
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My surgery date is:
June 10, 2024
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I was diagnosed with:
Aortic Stenosis
Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Tricuspid Regurgitation
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My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Replacement
Tricuspid Valve Repair
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft
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My surgeon is:
Dr. Maral Ouzounian
