I had an aortic value replacement and a single bypass in May of 2004, when I was 67. My heart disease was partially congenital because I was born with a bicuspid rather than a tricuspid value. Approximately ten percent of live births have this condition. I also knew that heart disease was in my family. My father died of heart failure at 76. Since I have a medical background (I’m a retired microbiologist for the FDA), I was aware that heart disease was something that would probably happen to me.

 

Prior to my surgery, I was asymptomatic and athletic, but also a smoker and on the heavy side. In 1996, my gynecologist noted my high blood pressure and sent me to a cardiologist. We controlled the HBP with meds and a low-salt diet for about three years. In the following two years, I had several echos and thalium stress tests, which revealed that my heart problems were getting worse. An angiogram in February 2004 told the full story: I was to prepare myself for an aortic valve replacement, the sooner the better.

 

I consider myself very lucky. I had plenty of time to make preparations and interview a number of doctors to find the most experienced one available. I also got to choose between a mechanical and tissue valve, weighing the pros and cons of each type. The mechanical valve meant taking Coumadin, an anti-coagulant, for the rest of my life but the tissue valve could wear out in ten years. My sister-in-law had to get her tissue valve replaced after eight years when she was 79. Normally, they do not replace valves at that age but she was in quite good health so she lucked out. I opted for the mechanical valve and Coumadin, even though taking it means constantly monitoring your diet and INR (the “thinness” of your blood), you bruise easily and cannot engage in risky physical activities.

 

I went into surgery with a very positive attitude. I was joking around with the doctors and nurses. You’re not supposed to wear any make-up or jewelry, but I had a pedicure just before the procedure. Later, the hospital staff remembered me, saying, “Oh, you’re the lady with the pretty toes!” My surgery went well and I was discharged after just four days.

 

After the surgery, my cardiologist proposed a course at a cardiac rehab center. I’d always been an active person, a tap dancer and tennis player, but I’d slowed down a bit. Now I’m an avid exerciser at the rehab center. Most women my age or older don’t continue with their rehab program. I figure maybe they’re embarrassed to sweat. But I embrace it. I’m proud that I can now keep up my heart rate for a vigorous workout three days a week for 40-50 minutes. I’ve also stopped smoking, lost fifteen pounds, and am enjoying eating a healthy low-salt diet. I feel wonderful!

 

My attitude about life is that you wait out the low points and relish the high points, knowing that neither will continue forever. So when the doctors told me I had to change because of my heart disease, I changed. I said to myself, “I have to do this. I have to take care of myself.” I hope you’ll do the same.