Courtney's Journal

Kimberly Biddick  When you made the appt with Dr McCarthy's office, did you tell the person scheduling the appt that your cardiologist said three months? Maybe if you pressed his office with that, he could see you sooner? Just a thought :) I know the wait is scary... but it will be a huge relief when you see him and your date is scheduled!! Until then, take it easy and don't push yourself :)

Enrique K  Hello Courtney, Kelly is right I would press the office and let them know you would like to see him ASAP. What was your diagnosis, mild, moderate or severe valve regurgitation or stenosis when you went to see your cardiologist? Do you have symptoms? Is this the only opinion that you have gotten on surgeons OR do you have 2-3 recommendations for top surgeon in your area? Good luck with everything.

Courtney Kerfoot  Yes I definitely pressed them about the importance of everything. They have reassured me that scheduling surgery after will not be an issue. In my area McCarthy is definitely the most experienced and the way to go. My diagnosis is bicuspid with mod-severe regurgitation. I have no symptoms.

Emily Rowley 
Hello Courtney.
My Cardiologist said the same thing I need it done very soon, yet it took a month or so just to get into to see my new Surgeon. When I arrived there she said need it done within 6 months, so at 3 months she will do it (or earlier but timing wasn't right for me). So you can see here the change in perspective. With all my symptoms I too worry my valve won't last me til my Surgery. However a Cardiologist visit (with a different one) said it will definitely be fine, I'm in good health otherwise and valves don't wear out that fast-it's a slow process. If you're still concerned I would definitely say it's urgent or get your Cardiologist rooms (they phoned on my behalf and chased the Surgeon's rooms to book me in an appointment asap) to phone your Surgeon.

All the best,
Emily.

Courtney Kerfoot  Thank you guys for the responses! This definitely makes me feel better! I figure they know what they are doing, but I can't help but overthink when it comes to such a serious condition. I'm so thankful to have found this community because I have no one in my friends and family that have been through this.

Emily Rowley  They do know what they are doing, even if they are slow. My Cardiologist took forever to get back to me, he had the test results and wanted to explore every avenue before coming to the conclusion of having my mitral valve replaced. Then suddenly rang up requesting an urgent appointment with him face-to-face explaining it to me.

Sometimes medical persons need a push by the individual or family (very important) for them to take action sooner.

I know it's incredibly hard not to worry. It would be taking up all of your thinking. Same goes for me and probably us all on here with upcoming Surgery.

You're welcome Courtney 😊 We are all here for each other including for you.

Take Care,
Emily.