Positivity, trust and determination are the key to a good recovery after major open heart surgery.

[survivorsguilt]

I am an 86 year old female but my aorta with a 6cms aneurism and the valve were replaced. I kept positive and, touch wood, five months on I am independent and well.

[Cliff_G]

Fantastic. You had some good care, there. 6 cms!

Although it sounds like you didn't dissect, much of our Patient Guide will apply to you. Happy reading. aorticdissectionawareness.o...

[survivorsguilt in reply to Cliff_G]

what do you mean by it sounds like I didn’t dissect?And yes I did have the best care. My surgeon was Mr Sabadi. fHe operates at St Thomas,s and London Bridge . As well as being a brilliant surgeon He was incredibly supportive

[Cliff_G in reply to survivorsguilt]

Hi. Dissection is when the aorta wall splits and lets blood in between the layers. You only mention an aneurysm, which is often a precursor to dissection. You're doing really well, so glad for you.

[survivorsguilt in reply to survivorsguilt]

Thanks for explaining. Apparently my aorta was so fragile it was within two or three weeks of bursting. I was incredibly lucky. I also had a small stroke during surgery and developed pneumonia but in spite of that I now walk unaided and was able to go up and downstairs within five weeks. I do have a bit of trouble typing but hope neuro physio might help that. Typing is a small price to pay though. My op was on October 7th. As I said, determination (and a brilliant surgeon) were the key for me. I do also have AF but during you thesurgeon

[Cliff_G in reply to survivorsguilt]

You were very fortunate. I knew about my dilated aorta for 20 years, was regularly monitored and it still dissected by surprise. Anyway, onward and upward, make the best of it. Best wishes.

[Rosie1066]

I totally agree. It like old age - it’s all in the mind. Keep going, doing everything you have always done and don’t change just because we are getting older.

[A246]

Well done that is great to hear, and you have inspired me. And you will also inspire others. I hope that you continue to recover well, and stay well.

[Plum53]

Really pleased to hear you are doing so well. Best wishes for your recovery going forward

[Larneybuds]

It's fantastic that your positivity has been at the forefront of your recovery and it's great to hear you are doing so well and are able to be independent. I hope you continue to make good progress and that others are inspired by your post. Xx

[survivorsguilt in reply to Larneybuds]

I cross my fingers and touch wood a lot!! cardiologist check up this evening, Good luck everyone and try to keep smiling. 😍😍😍

[Carercmb]

I agree our attitude plays and important part also support.

Well done . It helps others to read how well some people are doing . It’s not always bad news.

Good luck going forward.

[Jantech]

Thanks so much for writing this post!

I am 69 and female. I have been told I have moderate AR and am terrified as consultant said I will make 80 like it is then hopeless. You have shown me otherwise and I am so grateful for your wisdom. Maybe I have a future. Fantastic to hear. Thank you.