David's Journal

Good day everyone. I stop by here from time to time. Today is a milestone for me. 3 years ago, June 2 2014, I had aorta valve replacement and aneurysm repair. Because I am a young buck, I went with the mechanical valve. Works fine and lasts a long time. But it is noisy. I will say after 3 years, I am getting used to it. I hope you all enjoy the same good fortune I have had these last three years. At first I felt un-lucky to have to go through this. Then I was reminded of the poor SOB that didnt know he had a problem and......... So thank your lucky stars that your doctor saw a problem and, like mine, probably saved your life. Have a good day all!

Had two year check up in August. My efficiency has improved since last year, from 58% up to 66%. (Always thought that sounded bad, but they say Olympic Athletes are 70-80%) Still fighting my weight. BP is slightly high, will probably make and adjustment in meds. I walk 3-4 miles 5-6 days a week. Feel pretty good. Just getting old. Not looking forward to winter. Hope you are all doing well. Dave

Hello everyone. Hope you are all having a good day. Today I celebrate my 1 year anniversary of AOV replacement and Hemi arch repair. My one year check up at Mayo was good. BP a little high but manageable. My weight is up and down. Working harder on the down part right now. Thanks to friends and family for making this a great year. The support has been very touching.

I check in here from time to time. Welcome all. I am a AVR (mechanical) and hemi arch replacement guy. 10 months post op. I struggle with my weight among other things. My 6 month check up was good. Dr. Said we would address weight latter. I walk 3 miles/day. I had a tunneling wound under my sternum after surgery. Took 12 weeks to close, finally with infant bovine tissue. That's why I say, everybody has hiccups in their recovery. Adam's story of recovery is good. I imagine a few have zero problems, but not most of us. My message today is, for the most part, it is not as difficult as you may think. I experienced a few difficult moments in Rochester, but over all, these are the best people you will deal with your entire life. A few details may try to trip you up, but it is not that bad. You get out of it, what you put into it. Keep on ticking. Dave.

Having been through this over 9 months ago, its odd thinking of what to say to those who are about to have heart valve surgery. My thoughts are: "I hope the surgeon and his team have a good day'! Hell, we just have to lay there. The hard work for us starts day 1 post surgery.

Is anyone else having issues with cold weather? I am 8 months post valve replacement and aneurism repair. I have a mechanical valve. Specifically, the cold weather of Iowas winters makes it difficult to breathe. Anyone else?

Happy new year to everyone. Last week I had my 6 month follow up at the Mayo Clinic Rochester. Dr. Espinoza is my new cardiologist. He is very pleased with my CT scan and the sounds my valve makes. It's a noisy sucker. I was worried I would catch hell for my weight, but that's a project for latter. Good luck one and all.

I have noticed an absence of Mayo Clinic patients. I could not be happier with my experience in Rochester. June 2nd 2014-new On-X valve and repair enlarged aorta root. Doin' good! Lets here from other Mayo Clinic success stories.