Michael's Posts

Today is the 8th anniversary of my mitral valve repair. The day falls on a Sunday this year so I will not take the usual holiday from work. I am here to say to anyone with the procedure ahead of them that my heart function is something I rarely think about. My cardiology checkup every year is routine and I hope for the same for you. My old best friend in my profile photo passed at age 15 about 4 years ago and now I walk 3-4 miles a day with my new best friend. He'll be 3 next month and I'm looking forward to years of walking together.

I'm checking in today exactly three years from the day I had mitral valve repair surgery. I'd like to be a supportive and encouraging voice to those awaiting surgery or in recovery by saying this: heart surgery does not loom large in my life today. I rarely think of it! The diagnosis and events surrounding the surgery was only a moment in time and there have been countless moments since. Some happy, some sad, some with feelings of success, some accompanied by frustration... all to say that life post surgery is just plain normal. Global pandemic notwithstanding, of course. My very best to everyone on this path.

On February 3rd, 2018, I had OHS to repair my mitral valve. My 60th birthday occurred in May and today, exactly six months after the surgery, I tell people that I feel stronger at 60 than I have felt for the last few years. The decline during my 50s had been gradual but the improvement was immediate because the day after surgery was when I first noticed that I could stand up from a laying position and not feel lightheaded. I had several weeks of cardio rehab, which I recommend highly, and returned to my desk job at the end of April. My thinking was still a bit fuzzy then but it's crystal clear now. 12.5 mg. of Metoprolol a day keeps my resting heart rate below 100. It's odd, but my resting pulse used to be about 65. After the repair it became elevated, but still of little concern to my cardiologist. Valve repair was one of the most exciting, interesting and life-changing events I have experienced. I'm grateful for Adam's demystifying book, for this community and for the many knowledgeable and skilled professionals in whom I placed my trust.