Lilly's Posts

11 Years! wow! As I look back, I'm amazed I'm still here. I'm so grateful for my second chance at life! All we have is now! That's my motto. Every day I think about it as I look at my scar. It doesn't mean I forgot the past, it just means that the past is in the past and the future isn't here. We have less days ahead of us. So let's live now, let's have a good day today! Today is my 11th year anniversary! On December 10th, 2014, my aortic heart valve was replaced with a 23mm Edwards Lifesciences Magna Ease bovine aortic heart valve. My heart has been doing very well! No problems, no issues. Stanford Medical has done an outstanding job assessing my Echocardiograms and CTs. Walking is my go to exercise. I accomplish at least 5,000 steps every other day. In September I turned 74 years old. Most of the time I feel as if I'm in my 50s. I still work part time remotely which is great for my brain! and pocket book too. Last year however I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's. It is an autoimmune disorder which attacks the thyroid. I've been working hard in controlling the flares with diet. No gluten, no dairy, no sugar, no vigorous exercise, and I eat mostly plant based foods. I will continue with my healing journey! It has been difficult but I'm hopeful and I'm feeling a lot better! For those of you facing heart valve replacement, I wish the best outcome for you! You can do this! If I can, so can you. Walking is the best exercise which speeds up the recovery after surgery. Walking in nature heals the body and soul! Remember, all we have is now!! Stay strong! Take care of yourself, because you're #1!!

On 2/20/2007, 18 years ago today, I had my first open heart surgery due to an aortic aneurysm. It was called the Tyrone David procedure, a valve-sparing aortic root replacement using a Dacron graft. Most people with BAV who had an aortic aneurysm have it fixed at the same time as their heart valve replacement. I had my heart valve replaced 7.5 years later (December 14, 2014). If anyone has any questions about my aortic aneurysm, please let me know. Recently I had a CT of my heart, and I'm doing really well after 18 years! No issues, no problems with my heart! I'm so happy and grateful. I asked the doctor, "Am I still at risk for aneurysm?" The answer was -- No. Heart valve replacement typically eliminates the risk of aneurysm. For those who are facing HVS, I wish you the best outcome!! ❤️ Take care of yourself, listen to your body and do what's necessary to maintain your health. You are #1 !!! ❤️ 😊

Hi, All. I'm following up on my journal from December 2024. I have completed my tests for the Stanford Medical's Aortic Surveillance Program and I passed with flying colors!! I'm so happy! In preparation for the program, Stanford requested my most recent Echo and a CT Scan. On 01/20/2025, I had a CT Scan done of my heart and I sent them the Echo that was completed in August 2024. Today, 01/28/25, I had a virtual doctor's PA visit from Stanford to discuss the results. Great news! They haven't found any problems! My heart valve is performing very well. My echocardiogram ejection fraction (EF) of 65% is considered to be excellent. I also would be a good candidate for TAVR (valve in valve) when/if the time comes. Stanford will forward the results to my primary doctor and cardiologist. I honestly feel that I am set for the next 10yrs! I am so lucky and so grateful! In addition, we discussed baby aspirin. I began taking baby aspirin in 2007 when I was diagnosed with BAV and an aneurysm. I stopped in October of 2024 due to my Hashimoto's diagnosis. The PA agreed that it was time to stop the aspirin as I have had no heart attacks, clogging of the arteries, or stroke. I have had multiple gut flares for quite some time, which felt like my gut lining was inflammed. I was living on Oatmeal and bananas literally! I have stopped gluten, dairy and aspirin. I feel so much better! Flares are down considerably! I have a follow up with my primary doctor in March 2025. She will want a full blood panel. I'm hoping that my TPO will be normal or at the very least come down. It was at 6,204. (Thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO Ab) is an antibody that targets the thyroid peroxidase enzyme, which is involved in the production of thyroid hormones.) If any of you have any questions, please feel free to reach to me! I wish everyone great health, successful heart valve replacements, and an awesome 2025! Take care of yourselves, you are #1!!! 😊