New to Site, Surgery Scheduled 12-18

[harleygirl528]

I agree wholeheartedly with your decision and I am going the same way...with the bovine pericardial. I am not quite as young as you (41) but with the improvements to the bovine valve (anti-calcification treaments, etc.) we are probably pretty likely to get close to 20 years and I agree with your assessment of technology and the advances that are likely to take place by the time we need another valve. Also, with the research I have done about the correlation between mechanical valves and valvular strands that can break off and cause stroke, I think for me personally tissue just feels like a better choice. Ultimately, as you and others will agree, it is a very personal decision and you just know when you have reached the right one. I went back and forth but once I made up my mind I was certain it was the right one for ME.

Anyway, I am wishing you and your family a very joyous Christmas and I'll be praying for you! Hug your kids extra tight and thank God for the medical advances that give you and all of us with heart defects a second chance!!

I'm right behind you with surgery just 3 1/2 weeks away!!

TAke care and have someone send us a post to let us know how you are doing!

 

[Phyllis]

Started a new thread for you so that all the members will know you moved the surgery to the 26th. Glad you have made your decision and wishing you the very best.

 

[Susan BAV]

Hi TJ - You have my best wishes that all goes well for you. Take care and post again soon.