Donna's Profile

Diagnosed in late June with Severe Mitral Valve Regurgitation symptomatic shortness of breath and swelling of ankles. Up until the diagnosis I was very active 3 times a week going to my favorite Inferno Pilates Class! I also work full time as a special education preschool teacher ...that's a workout in itself lol! I also have the BRCA 2 gene mutation so I had prior preventative surgeries one of those surgeries was a bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction (direct implants) Due to the implants, I am not a candidate for a minimally non-invasive surgery. I even told my surgeon I would have the implants taken out but he said it is an unnecessary surgery plus insurance wouldn't cover it! He reassured me the scar will allow me to still wear v-necks. My surgeon also said he's 95% sure it will be a repair. Thanks for allowing me to share my story! I love reading all your successful stories, helpful tips, and never ending love and support from this amazing community❤️‼️ Update 2/23/23 Surgical procedures Mitral valve repair (36 mm Physio I ring) Closure of patent foramen ovale Removal of ascending aortic mass/embolus