Matt's Profile

I was diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve as well as an ascending aortic aneurysm (5.0) in the spring of 2016 (age 38). The surgery took place soon after on 6.21.2016. I had the Bentall procedure to correct the aforementioned issues. I have a St. Jude mechanical valve. I take Coumadin daily, and have now officially accepted it as a life long vitamin. It's not as scary as the web makes it out to be...just monitor your INR regularly. [*side note: I've split my finger down to the bone and treated it like I would have pre-op, applying pressure, etc. All was fine.] After being discharged from the hospital, I returned three days later due to pericardial effusion. This was a tough time. I was hospitalized for seven more days after already being in the hospital for eight days after the surgery. I was scared for a minute. Let's just say I prayed A LOT. Now I'm almost to my one year anniversary date - I can't believe it. God is good! Thank you to all of you who have posted your personal stories - they gave me strength when I thought I didn't have much left. A special shout out to you Adam - I am so thankful for this wonderful website you created. Powerful!