- Bicuspid Aortic Valve
- Interviews
Christine's interview
How did all start?
I was found to have a heart murmur at 18 when l went for my first job, Nurse Training. Later on my Mum was diagnosed as having a bicuspid valve in her 70’s and had a replacement bovine valve. She was concerned about me and l had an echo in my 30’s which confirmed it was passed down.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
I had a diagnosis in my 30’s and remained mild until l was 58, it was classed severe. I have had a valve replacement late May 2018, at nearly 60, I had to wait 11 months for surgery.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Drawing on the experience of others
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Getting surgery in the first place
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
Friends and family have been my rock. Almost everything
What things have you stopped doing?
Almost everything! I am 10 days post op!
What do you think about the future?
I feel much more confident about my future, without surgery had very limited life expectancy
