new member

[Nancy]

Hi JD-

Welcome to the wonderful world of valve replacement. You've got enough time before surgery to learn all the ropes.

This is a wonderful group of people and we'll help to get you through your surgery.

My husband has had 3 valve surgeries. It is a big deal, but it's life-saving and highly perfected. Really a miracle. Imagine being able to actually correct your heart problems.

Wishing you all the best.

 

[fyrfytr]

Hey JD,
I think you can see that there are a lot of caring people here. Everyone is here to listen and help so join in.
Take Care

 

[ALCapshaw2]

I am currently in line to have my mitral valve repaired in September, I am asymptomatic but apparently have severe enlargment on the left side of my heart caused be the leaky mitral vlave. JD

Welcome to our world JD !

I am a confirmed believer that when symptoms appear, SOONER is BETTER, and an ENLARGED HEART is one of the more critical symptoms. If allowed to continue for a 'sufficient' length of time, PERMANENT Heart Muscle Damage may occur so I highly recommend you consult with a SURGEON ASAP since Surgeons prefer to operate BEFORE this damage is done to the heart as opposed to many (most?) cardiologists who often postpone surgery as long as possible, placing you at HIGHER RISK when you finally do go into surgery. SOME cardiologists are beginning to see the light on this issue, but definitely not all. Several of us got into surgery 'just in time' and some found that their valves were in much worse condition than pre-surgery testing suggested. IMHO, it is best to have to surgeon determine the timing of your surgery.

'AL'

 

[tobagotwo]

JD, Al makes an excellent point. The concern for permanent damage has to be a primary indicator for surgery. If there is a question, get another opinion.

Bryan, be sure to tell them about having your heart plopped out onto your chest to be worked on. I don't think they actually do that anymore, but it sure does shut some people up.

Then, offer to show the scar. That scatters the rest of 'em.

Best wishes,

 

[KathyH]

I found that when I told my co workers about my surgery, they were very supportive and along with my family and friends helped me get through the ordeal. Of course I had one co-worker that said "you are lucky you will be out of work for awhile", I replied, "Yeah I will be the one with my chest split open and my heart stopped"- that ended that conversation.
I feel that all the support and prayers I had from everyone and especially having VR family helped to keep my positive and helped with my recovery.
Good Luck and welcome to our family.
Kathy H