Helen's Profile

I am a 50 year old female. My doctor heard my murmur when I was 16 years old. DId not think much of it, but I was told that I needed antibiotic every time I went to the dentist. About 10 years ago, my internist heard the leak and told me to go see a cardiologist. I did and he said there was nothing that can be done at that time. 2 years ago my Dr heard the murmur and said it was loud and asked me to go see my cardiologist again. They did an echo and told me I had a leaky valve. They recommended I get an echo every 6 months. After 3 echos, I was sent to the surgeon. Dr David Adams at Mount Sinai told me that my valve is 100% repairable. I was happy that they can fix it, but very nervous since it is an open heart surgery. Throughout the whole process, I did not tell a single soul. I just kept it to myself since I did not want to worry my family. My closest family members know now and I like to keep it that way. My surgery is scheduled for Feb 13.