Gerald's Profile

Since childhood i have had a heart murmur. This never interfered with anything I wanted to do. I spent four years in the Air Force, and 38 years working as a Registered Nurse. I have been married to my High school sweetheart for 42 years and we have two grown sons. Life has been really good for me and I have been blessed in many ways. I have always been very active and continue to be a devoted cyclist logging 100+ miles per week on the road. Two years ago after completing a 42 mile ride I collapsed and found myself in the Hospital. Diagnosis was Coronary Artery Disease(CAD), and I received two stents. My symptoms were silent, with no chest pain or shortness of breath or any warning sign. I survived what is known as the ("Widow Maker). Two months later I was back to work and cycling. Six months ago I started having mild symptoms of Aortic Stenosis. Completing a second Cardiac Cath and Stress Echo I was given a confirmed diagnosis of Severe Aortic Stenosis. I am scheduled to have Aortic Valve Replacement on August 8th with a valve made from cow tissue. Looking forward to getting back to cycling as soon as possible.