At six months old I contracted RSV, which is not uncommon in infants. It affected me more severely than most, landing me in the hospital for six days. My pediatrician discovered my heart was enlarged, so I was sent to a cardiologist. I was diagnosed with an Atrial-Ventricular Septal Defect, which are holes in the heart, and my valves weren't fully formed. I also was diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve.
Four weeks later the holes in my atrial chamber had healed and the diagnosis became VSD as I still had one large hole that needed fixing. I had open heart surgery at MUSC, but, I believe through prayer, I was almost fully healed when I got there! I did still need the hole repaired, but my valves had formed and required no reconstruction!
I am fortunate to have lived a pretty normal life with minimal impact to my overall health (aside from contracting PVCs thanks to Covid). I am forever grateful for my pediatrician, cardiologists, and the staff at MUSC for saving my life.
I still see my cardiologist annually to monitor my bicuspid aortic valve and any changes that could possibly occur, but I know just how lucky I am. The American Heart Association works to help others like me dealing with heart disease have these same resources to help navigate them, as well as provide others with the knowledge that could save someone's life.
We're all tied to heart disease and stroke in some way. We have to change that. Will you help me?
Your donation will fund groundbreaking research that literally keeps hearts beating and helps people have longer, healthier lives.
