Stephanie's Profile

I was diagnosed with Moderate/Severe Mitral Regurgitation in 2003 after a new GP heard a heart murmur during an annual physical. I had no symptoms and was only 30 years old so it was hard to believe I had serious heart condition. The first surgeon I met with recommended surgery immediately but was not confident my valve could be repaired. My cardiologist suggested a second opinion and sent my Echo and TEE to Cleveland Clinic. Doctor Cosgrove reviewed my information and while he was optimistic the valve might be able to be repaired, he recommended we watch and wait until I developed symptoms or the leak got worse. For almost 17 years I have been under the care of my cardiologist - getting regular checkups and echocardiograms and my valve had remained the same until now. My recent echo shows the leak is now severe. I exercise 3 times per week including a lot of cardio and still have no shortness of breath - but I realize "the time has come" to do something. My cardiologist who has guided me since day 1 has referred me to Northwestern where I am hoping to get a surgical consult with Dr. McCarthy. I was so happy to find this site and am so encouraged to see how many people are getting successful mitral valve repairs these days. I am hopeful mine will be a repair as well.