Pam's Profile

Most of my life I had been told I had a heart murmur. They told me it was Mitrial valve prolapse. Then about 7 years ago the cardiologist told me it was aortic stenosis. She said I would need to have it replaced when I was in my 70s. I did not believe her and did not worry about it. Most years I did go in for my annual Echo but skipped last year. I am now 58 and it has progressed to severe stenosis. I do not have any symptoms and that made it all very hard to accept at first. Since last August I have had 2 Echograms and a treadmill test and 3 consults with the top cardiologists and surgeon in my area. They all say I need to have my valve replaced now. Last week I had a TEE because I still was not convinced that the ECHOs were correct. The TEE confirmed that my valve is very calcified and I have a bicuspid valve. My cardiac cath was perfect. No problems with the arteries. My surgery is scheduled for Feb 23rd. I am very scared but I am finally starting to accept what I need to do. I am so glad that I found this site. I think it is going to be wonderful to have all the support and so that I can give support as well!!