Our story started with the traggic loss of my Uncle Joe from a dissecting aortic aneurysm in July of 2019.  My mom, MaMaw, found out she had a bicuspid aortic valve with a dilated aorta.  This is a potentionally lethal condition that requires frequent monitoring and may require early surgery to prevent dissection.  MaMaw underwent open heart surgery to repair her aorta and replace her valve on Feburary 16, 2022.  She is now as good as new!!

 

In the fall of 2023, we found out that Paul and Lena also have the same condition, which we now call MaMaw's Special Hearts!!  They both will require yearly monitoring, and Paul is even on medication already.  Surgey is the only effective way to prevent dissection or rupture, and that could be in their future.  

 

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is the most common congenital heart defect, affecting .46-1.37% of the population.  About 1 in 3 people with BAV also have a dilated aorta. 

 

We Walk to Save Lives!

 

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