Hi to all,
My name is Andrea (Andie). Seven months ago ( January 2019)I had a repair to my thoracic aortic aneurysm. The only symptom I had was moderate high blood pressure. My primary care physician was a blessing. He suggested a stress test and echocardiogram for some muscular pain, just to be careful. We watched the aneurysm for 2 and a half years. It was found at 4 cm and was 5-6 at the time of surgery. The surgeon said afterwards it was bigger than he thought once he opened me up.
it is about 7 months later. Open Heart Surgery was a shock to my system, and I needed help with dressing, etc, at first.
i started walking right away. When I was approved for rehab I started and worked hard. The people in the cardiac rehab center were so nice and helpful. It encouraged me to see all the heart patients working out. I completed my 36 weeks, and they gave me a certificate of completion and a t-shirt and clapping from everyone in the gym. It was so worth it!!!
I continue to work out at my local gym and feel stronger than ever.
My cardiologist suggested I talk to family members about being tested. Out of three siblings, one of them had an aneurysm in the same place at 4 cm. He is now being monitored. I feel so blessed that my brother and I knew about the aneurysms before they split.
Thanks for your listening ears! Stay in good health!
Andie
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Andrea Broding
School Psychologist Retired
Santee CA
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