Penny's Profile

I was 65 YO in November 2021 when my internist heard a heart murmur during a regular checkup. He arranged for an echo, which I had on March 29 (!) after COVID backup delays. That night, I knew seeing "Severe Aortic Stenosis" (AVA is .61 cm2) in the report wasn't good. Through the help of my son, I got an appointment with a cardiologist at VCU Health Pauley Heart Center in Richmond, VA, on April 15. The cardiologist and the surgeon explained my options, both requiring surgery to replace the valve. Because I am in otherwise good health, a mechanical valve was recommended. The heart cath confirmed that my heart is in otherwise decent shape, and my surgery is scheduled for June 2.