Second valve, second chance
More than 20 years after open-heart surgery to treat aortic stenosis, Len Parry’s valve was failing. At 91, what options would he have?
“I’m coming through this.”
Rena was 58 when she learned that she had lived her whole life with a congenital heart defect — a bicuspid aortic valve. Determination and a positive attitude helped her face an uncertain future and eventual open-heart surgery.
“It didn’t seem like this could happen to me.”
At age 27, the meaning of that murmur became clear when Cole was diagnosed with severe aortic valve disease. He shared his insights as both a heart valve patient and a healthcare professional.
“I don’t have to be an old man at 67.”
Bill Power figured he was just getting old when he started experiencing fatigue and chest discomfort while doing some of his favourite activities. But what he thought were normal signs of aging turned out to be symptoms of heart valve disease.
“I always believe in hope”
Len never gave up hope. Cancer treatment had left his faulty aortic valve with further damage, and surgery to replace the valve was considered risky.
Sister act
After a successful valve replacement on the same day her sister had heart surgery, Lise urges women to pay attention to their hearts.
“I didn’t know what heart valve disease was”
After a blackout led to his diagnosis with heart valve disease, John Hartill wants more people to be aware of subtle symptoms.
“A stethoscope check can save lives”
After he was diagnosed with valve disease, Dave Smith urges his friends to ask their doctors for a stethoscope check.
“I’m a new man after TAVI”
After a minimally invasive valve replacement procedure, Peter was back home quickly — and back to playing his beloved golf.