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Derek's Guestbook

Diagnosis: Bicuspid Aortic Valve, Aortic Aneurysm

Member Since: May 31, 2014

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Derek Owens got a guestbook from Emily Rowley

10 years ago (December 7, 2015)

Hello Derek, I saw your cow valve photo. How'd you get a picture of it? :) I had my first Repair aged 16 and now possible replacement aged 21, I'm concerned about how long a pig valve (or cow) might last in me being a young female and hearing yours'... Read more.

Derek Owens got a guestbook from Ann Jackson

11 years ago (April 19, 2015)

Derek, you are an inspiration to many people. Thank you for sharing your story. Many people of all ages will benefit from your experience and your positive outlook, as well as your appreciation of life.

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Derek Owens got a guestbook from Kathy Claflin

11 years ago (April 19, 2015)

Hi Derek, my 24 yr old Son, Tristan, also had a Bicuspid Aortic valve, but a month before his 19th birthday he had the On-X mechanical valve put in, so of course he'll have to take blood thinners for the rest of his life. I was just wondering, since you... Read more.

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Darlene Stoudt

Kathy, my son was 33 when he became ill with endocarditis, and also had a Bicuspid Aortic Valve where the bacteria decided to grow. His valve was also replaced with a mechanical valve for the same reason. The docs would not even consider it. Glad you asked this question, because... Read more.

Pat Bluemel

I'm 42 and got bovine because I am accident prone. I know it means another surgery in the future but given my activity level and medical history of situations that have caused bleeding in The past, we decided bovine is the best for now. There's always the hope that technology... Read more.