Debbie's Profile

I was diagnosed with a heart murmur 12 years ago. Ten years ago I starting seeing a cardiologist and he told me I’d have to have a valve replacement in about 8-10 years. I stayed at the same practice when this doctor retired 2 years later. And I love my cardiologist, Dr. Campos. Every doctor or nurse who has listened to my heart has commented on my heart murmur. My cardiologist assured me it was louder than it was bad. Fast forward to this past summer of upheaval with: a death in the family with lots of traveling to and from the Midwest, I stepped in a hole and broke four toes and am still in a boot from late July, and I just finished having cataracts removed in both eyes. This was definitely not my summer. Even though I didn’t think so, my family agrees I am showing symptoms of aortic stenosis and I have to admit I have used the phrases ‘I’m just getting older (I am 64)”, “I’m not in as good of shape”, “I’m only out of breath because it’s hot in Texas and this boot is heavy”, and “there does not seem to be enough oxygen on this airplane”. After reading Adam’s book, I guess I’m not exactly asymtomatic. I finally met with my cardiologist yesterday and he set up an appointment for me to meet my surgeon next week. I don’t know what happens from here. My cardiologist is thinking my surgery might have to be postponed until my big toe heals. It hasn’t healed at all since late July. The orthopedist won’t do surgery to put a pin in it because of my heart. All these unknowns are so stressful. So is facing open heart surgery. All I want to do is live my simple life as a retired high school math teacher - now a Math specialist and still tutor students in the evenings. I want to play with my 13 grandchildren who give me such joy. I want to continue to travel with my husband and/or my daughters and their families. Right now, I can’t even think straight...