Mended Hearts Open Forum

Hi--I'm a newbie to the group. I have had  ongoing crazy blood pressure issues, crappy family history, lots of med changes and finally had an echo; found out I have an ascending aortic aneurysm- 3.7.  I was diagnosed literally a week before all the COVID stuff shut everything down, so have just been dealing with reading lots of info online and sorting out priorities. I had my second appointment today and told my dr that I've been having a few times where its hard to breathe (but it could be COVID and masks or anxiety), and also some swelling in my feet and lower legs. I have never shied away from anything and was all ready to kind of push to an earlier surgery ( I'm only 63), but my dr was pretty up front about the dangers of surgery vs possible danger of dissection, so am resigned to the wait and see, get an echo, wait and see game. Lots of anxiety, and pretty sure no one really gets how serious this is. Am I crazy or did others feel under-appreciated with this diagnosis? Thanks--Melissa

------------------------------
Melissa Karr
Business owner/musician
Iowa City IA
------------------------------

Hi Melissa,
i just came across your post from last year. I've got a similar story. 63 years old, ascending aorta dilation of 4,2 from a CT scan. Interestingly enough they sent me for an echo too and that showed the dimensions at 3.9. I met with cardiologist who is sending me on to a thoracic surgeon to be followed. I have that appt in 2 weeks.  Everything I've read says that your size is mild. It may never grow beyond the current size, which is the hope. I'm just wondering how you are doing and has anything changed with your diagnosis? I'm not seeing any other posts or replies attached to this thread but I'm having trouble using this forum. Thank you!

------------------------------
Cindy M
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 9/7/2021 8:40:00 AM
From: cindy meredith
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa,
i just came across your post from last year. I've got a similar story. 63 years old, ascending aorta dilation of 4,2 from a CT scan. Interestingly enough they sent me for an echo too and that showed the dimensions at 3.9. I met with cardiologist who is sending me on to a thoracic surgeon to be followed. I have that appt in 2 weeks.  Everything I've read says that your size is mild. It may never grow beyond the current size, which is the hope. I'm just wondering how you are doing and has anything changed with your diagnosis? I'm not seeing any other posts or replies attached to this thread but I'm having trouble using this forum. Thank you!

------------------------------
Cindy M
------------------------------

Melissa and Cindy,

I never had your condition but I have had open heart coronary artery bypass surgery.  I'm here to tell you that you should consider it a blessing that you're being told to wait, monitor and see if OHS to correct your aneurysm is ever warranted.  While we tell people this on this forum who are about to have OHS for whatever reason that this surgery has become routine, it's performed every day and so on, believe me, if you can avoid having the surgery you are lucky.  However routine it may be for the doctors to perform, it's neither routine nor fun for the patient.  And I'm speaking from the viewpoint of a guy who made a complete recovery, an "amazing" recovery from the viewpoint of my cardiologist.

If you ever need the surgery, I'm sure that you will be fine but, in the meantime, count your blessings that you can avoid it for now, maybe forever, and just go about your life with a periodic monitoring visit/test. And as for fears/anxiety about what the future may bring, I personally have found that meditation helps me stay in the here and now, appreciating every moment of the borrowed time on which I am living for the past 3 1/2 years since my heart attack and emergency OHS when I was 67 1/2.  Learning to smell the roses has been the greatest gift I could have received from my heart attack and surgery.

I wish you both good luck and good health and happiness.

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 09-07-2021 08:39
From: cindy meredith
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa,
i just came across your post from last year. I've got a similar story. 63 years old, ascending aorta dilation of 4,2 from a CT scan. Interestingly enough they sent me for an echo too and that showed the dimensions at 3.9. I met with cardiologist who is sending me on to a thoracic surgeon to be followed. I have that appt in 2 weeks.  Everything I've read says that your size is mild. It may never grow beyond the current size, which is the hope. I'm just wondering how you are doing and has anything changed with your diagnosis? I'm not seeing any other posts or replies attached to this thread but I'm having trouble using this forum. Thank you!

------------------------------
Cindy M
------------------------------

Thank you 🙏 so much for your sharing. My name is Long Tran, 68 1/2 years old, living in Omaha, Nebraska, CT scan just found out 9 days ago that I had 4.2cm thoracic aortic aneurysm and chronic dissection in my abdominal aorta, also have some calcium build up in my heart. I'm very nervous about the position of my AAA because it's right in front of the heart. Today I'm going to see a cardiologist, I pray 🙏 for my heart. I don't know what to do? 
Thank you for reading my post. 🙏

------------------------------
Long Tran
retired
Omaha NE
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 09-08-2021 08:20
From: Ira Reid
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Melissa and Cindy,

I never had your condition but I have had open heart coronary artery bypass surgery.  I'm here to tell you that you should consider it a blessing that you're being told to wait, monitor and see if OHS to correct your aneurysm is ever warranted.  While we tell people this on this forum who are about to have OHS for whatever reason that this surgery has become routine, it's performed every day and so on, believe me, if you can avoid having the surgery you are lucky.  However routine it may be for the doctors to perform, it's neither routine nor fun for the patient.  And I'm speaking from the viewpoint of a guy who made a complete recovery, an "amazing" recovery from the viewpoint of my cardiologist.

If you ever need the surgery, I'm sure that you will be fine but, in the meantime, count your blessings that you can avoid it for now, maybe forever, and just go about your life with a periodic monitoring visit/test. And as for fears/anxiety about what the future may bring, I personally have found that meditation helps me stay in the here and now, appreciating every moment of the borrowed time on which I am living for the past 3 1/2 years since my heart attack and emergency OHS when I was 67 1/2.  Learning to smell the roses has been the greatest gift I could have received from my heart attack and surgery.

I wish you both good luck and good health and happiness.

Ira

------------------------------
Ira Reid
Hoboken NJ
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-07-2021 08:39
From: cindy meredith
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa,
i just came across your post from last year. I've got a similar story. 63 years old, ascending aorta dilation of 4,2 from a CT scan. Interestingly enough they sent me for an echo too and that showed the dimensions at 3.9. I met with cardiologist who is sending me on to a thoracic surgeon to be followed. I have that appt in 2 weeks.  Everything I've read says that your size is mild. It may never grow beyond the current size, which is the hope. I'm just wondering how you are doing and has anything changed with your diagnosis? I'm not seeing any other posts or replies attached to this thread but I'm having trouble using this forum. Thank you!

------------------------------
Cindy M

Hi Melissa and Cindy,
I had a TAA in 2017 at 4.3 and we watched it until 2019, when it was 5.3 and time for surgery. I found the diagnosis unnerving; it made me anxious, like I had a ticking time bomb in my chest. My doctor was supportive, but no one can change the fact that it is YOU who has to deal with it. I found prayer (Contemplative Prayer) and yoga and meditation helpful. I also may have a little abdominal aneurysm; so small the doc is unsure. I tell myself that most people have something wrong with them. They usually don't know it.  I am thankful that we found my problem before it became a really big one.
By the way, my youngest brother has a TAA in the same place, and it is a 4.0 cm. Make sure you tell your sibs to get checked.
I am happy to share about my prep for surgery, and the whole Open Heart experience, if you have questions.
My best to you,
Andrea

------------------------------
Andrea Broding
School Psychologist Retired
Santee CA
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 09-07-2021 08:39
From: cindy meredith
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa,
i just came across your post from last year. I've got a similar story. 63 years old, ascending aorta dilation of 4,2 from a CT scan. Interestingly enough they sent me for an echo too and that showed the dimensions at 3.9. I met with cardiologist who is sending me on to a thoracic surgeon to be followed. I have that appt in 2 weeks.  Everything I've read says that your size is mild. It may never grow beyond the current size, which is the hope. I'm just wondering how you are doing and has anything changed with your diagnosis? I'm not seeing any other posts or replies attached to this thread but I'm having trouble using this forum. Thank you!

------------------------------
Cindy M
------------------------------

Hi Melissa and Cindy,

I am just the same- surprise diagnosis of Ascending aorta aneurysm (46mm) in February, investigations since and I meet up with cardiologist to discuss in three weeks.
I'm 52 years old and a busy farmer, everyday I am worried I am doing too much? I am not asymptomatic so would prefer surgery to get on an improving curve rather than a declining one.
I have a distant cousin who has been in 'watchful waiting for 8 years' he is now booked for surgery. so my time maybe a while!
Take care and look after yourselves

Darren

------------------------------
Darren Tebbitt
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 09-09-2021 13:04
From: Andrea Broding
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa and Cindy,
I had a TAA in 2017 at 4.3 and we watched it until 2019, when it was 5.3 and time for surgery. I found the diagnosis unnerving; it made me anxious, like I had a ticking time bomb in my chest. My doctor was supportive, but no one can change the fact that it is YOU who has to deal with it. I found prayer (Contemplative Prayer) and yoga and meditation helpful. I also may have a little abdominal aneurysm; so small the doc is unsure. I tell myself that most people have something wrong with them. They usually don't know it.  I am thankful that we found my problem before it became a really big one.
By the way, my youngest brother has a TAA in the same place, and it is a 4.0 cm. Make sure you tell your sibs to get checked.
I am happy to share about my prep for surgery, and the whole Open Heart experience, if you have questions.
My best to you,
Andrea

------------------------------
Andrea Broding
School Psychologist Retired
Santee CA
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-07-2021 08:39
From: cindy meredith
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa,
i just came across your post from last year. I've got a similar story. 63 years old, ascending aorta dilation of 4,2 from a CT scan. Interestingly enough they sent me for an echo too and that showed the dimensions at 3.9. I met with cardiologist who is sending me on to a thoracic surgeon to be followed. I have that appt in 2 weeks.  Everything I've read says that your size is mild. It may never grow beyond the current size, which is the hope. I'm just wondering how you are doing and has anything changed with your diagnosis? I'm not seeing any other posts or replies attached to this thread but I'm having trouble using this forum. Thank you!

------------------------------
Cindy M

Thank you 🙏

------------------------------
Long Tran
retired
Omaha NE
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-04-2021 16:00
From: Darren Tebbitt
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa and Cindy,

I am just the same- surprise diagnosis of Ascending aorta aneurysm (46mm) in February, investigations since and I meet up with cardiologist to discuss in three weeks.
I'm 52 years old and a busy farmer, everyday I am worried I am doing too much? I am not asymptomatic so would prefer surgery to get on an improving curve rather than a declining one.
I have a distant cousin who has been in 'watchful waiting for 8 years' he is now booked for surgery. so my time maybe a while!
Take care and look after yourselves

Darren

------------------------------
Darren Tebbitt
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-09-2021 13:04
From: Andrea Broding
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa and Cindy,
I had a TAA in 2017 at 4.3 and we watched it until 2019, when it was 5.3 and time for surgery. I found the diagnosis unnerving; it made me anxious, like I had a ticking time bomb in my chest. My doctor was supportive, but no one can change the fact that it is YOU who has to deal with it. I found prayer (Contemplative Prayer) and yoga and meditation helpful. I also may have a little abdominal aneurysm; so small the doc is unsure. I tell myself that most people have something wrong with them. They usually don't know it.  I am thankful that we found my problem before it became a really big one.
By the way, my youngest brother has a TAA in the same place, and it is a 4.0 cm. Make sure you tell your sibs to get checked.
I am happy to share about my prep for surgery, and the whole Open Heart experience, if you have questions.
My best to you,
Andrea

------------------------------
Andrea Broding
School Psychologist Retired
Santee CA


Original Message:
Sent: 09-07-2021 08:39
From: cindy meredith
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa,
i just came across your post from last year. I've got a similar story. 63 years old, ascending aorta dilation of 4,2 from a CT scan. Interestingly enough they sent me for an echo too and that showed the dimensions at 3.9. I met with cardiologist who is sending me on to a thoracic surgeon to be followed. I have that appt in 2 weeks.  Everything I've read says that your size is mild. It may never grow beyond the current size, which is the hope. I'm just wondering how you are doing and has anything changed with your diagnosis? I'm not seeing any other posts or replies attached to this thread but I'm having trouble using this forum. Thank you!

------------------------------
Cindy M

Hi, my name is Michael  I have no one to talk to who has any experience with this problem, my doctor found a 4.8cm aortic aneurysm on the ascending he says I'm in good shape otherwise so he wants to wait till it's 5.5 I'm scared beyond anything I could imagine what should I expect, how long is life expectancy after the graft, how am I going to feel I have so many questions can you help me?

------------------------------
Michael Horan
retired
Cleburne TX
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 09-09-2021 13:04
From: Andrea Broding
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa and Cindy,
I had a TAA in 2017 at 4.3 and we watched it until 2019, when it was 5.3 and time for surgery. I found the diagnosis unnerving; it made me anxious, like I had a ticking time bomb in my chest. My doctor was supportive, but no one can change the fact that it is YOU who has to deal with it. I found prayer (Contemplative Prayer) and yoga and meditation helpful. I also may have a little abdominal aneurysm; so small the doc is unsure. I tell myself that most people have something wrong with them. They usually don't know it.  I am thankful that we found my problem before it became a really big one.
By the way, my youngest brother has a TAA in the same place, and it is a 4.0 cm. Make sure you tell your sibs to get checked.
I am happy to share about my prep for surgery, and the whole Open Heart experience, if you have questions.
My best to you,
Andrea

------------------------------
Andrea Broding
School Psychologist Retired
Santee CA
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-07-2021 08:39
From: cindy meredith
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa,
i just came across your post from last year. I've got a similar story. 63 years old, ascending aorta dilation of 4,2 from a CT scan. Interestingly enough they sent me for an echo too and that showed the dimensions at 3.9. I met with cardiologist who is sending me on to a thoracic surgeon to be followed. I have that appt in 2 weeks.  Everything I've read says that your size is mild. It may never grow beyond the current size, which is the hope. I'm just wondering how you are doing and has anything changed with your diagnosis? I'm not seeing any other posts or replies attached to this thread but I'm having trouble using this forum. Thank you!

------------------------------
Cindy M

Original Message:
Sent: 7/21/2022 6:02:00 PM
From: Michael Horan
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi, my name is Michael  I have no one to talk to who has any experience with this problem, my doctor found a 4.8cm aortic aneurysm on the ascending he says I'm in good shape otherwise so he wants to wait till it's 5.5 I'm scared beyond anything I could imagine what should I expect, how long is life expectancy after the graft, how am I going to feel I have so many questions can you help me?

------------------------------
Michael Horan
retired
Cleburne TX
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-09-2021 13:04
From: Andrea Broding
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa and Cindy,
I had a TAA in 2017 at 4.3 and we watched it until 2019, when it was 5.3 and time for surgery. I found the diagnosis unnerving; it made me anxious, like I had a ticking time bomb in my chest. My doctor was supportive, but no one can change the fact that it is YOU who has to deal with it. I found prayer (Contemplative Prayer) and yoga and meditation helpful. I also may have a little abdominal aneurysm; so small the doc is unsure. I tell myself that most people have something wrong with them. They usually don't know it.  I am thankful that we found my problem before it became a really big one.
By the way, my youngest brother has a TAA in the same place, and it is a 4.0 cm. Make sure you tell your sibs to get checked.
I am happy to share about my prep for surgery, and the whole Open Heart experience, if you have questions.
My best to you,
Andrea

------------------------------
Andrea Broding
School Psychologist Retired
Santee CA
------------------------------

To: Daniel O'Brien
i saw your response to the message from Michael and found it calming and heartwarming. It's great to hear from someone that has had this experience and had successful surgery. I have a 4.2 aortic aneurysm and sine it's being monitored my biggest concern is where to have the surgery. My cardiologist wants to assure me that I may never need the surgery, the the reality is what if I do, since it's not going away. If you don't mind me asking, where did you go for your surgery and who was your surgeon? I think that would be calming for me and perhaps for Michael. Thank you in advance.
Judye Conner

------------------------------
Judye Conner
Retired PE Teacher
Las Vegas NV
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 07-24-2022 21:43
From: Daniel O'Brien
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Michael,

 

I just had my ascending aortic aneurysm replaced in February.  When they first saw it, it was 4.9 cm and the surgeon followed me for 3.5 years.  Last year it grew to 5.1 to 5.2 cm and he recommended surgery then.. You will see many sites that might suggest having the replacement surgery when goes above 5.0.  The graft should last your lifetime.  Now I feel great and I recovered pretty well after the surgery.  Modern medicine is amazing.  I wish you the best.

 

Dan

 

 

Original Message:
Sent: 7/21/2022 6:02:00 PM
From: Michael Horan
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi, my name is Michael  I have no one to talk to who has any experience with this problem, my doctor found a 4.8cm aortic aneurysm on the ascending he says I'm in good shape otherwise so he wants to wait till it's 5.5 I'm scared beyond anything I could imagine what should I expect, how long is life expectancy after the graft, how am I going to feel I have so many questions can you help me?

------------------------------
Michael Horan
retired
Cleburne TX
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-09-2021 13:04
From: Andrea Broding
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa and Cindy,
I had a TAA in 2017 at 4.3 and we watched it until 2019, when it was 5.3 and time for surgery. I found the diagnosis unnerving; it made me anxious, like I had a ticking time bomb in my chest. My doctor was supportive, but no one can change the fact that it is YOU who has to deal with it. I found prayer (Contemplative Prayer) and yoga and meditation helpful. I also may have a little abdominal aneurysm; so small the doc is unsure. I tell myself that most people have something wrong with them. They usually don't know it.  I am thankful that we found my problem before it became a really big one.
By the way, my youngest brother has a TAA in the same place, and it is a 4.0 cm. Make sure you tell your sibs to get checked.
I am happy to share about my prep for surgery, and the whole Open Heart experience, if you have questions.
My best to you,
Andrea

------------------------------
Andrea Broding
School Psychologist Retired
Santee CA


Original Message:
Sent: 09-07-2021 08:39
From: cindy meredith
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa,
i just came across your post from last year. I've got a similar story. 63 years old, ascending aorta dilation of 4,2 from a CT scan. Interestingly enough they sent me for an echo too and that showed the dimensions at 3.9. I met with cardiologist who is sending me on to a thoracic surgeon to be followed. I have that appt in 2 weeks.  Everything I've read says that your size is mild. It may never grow beyond the current size, which is the hope. I'm just wondering how you are doing and has anything changed with your diagnosis? I'm not seeing any other posts or replies attached to this thread but I'm having trouble using this forum. Thank you!

------------------------------
Cindy M

Original Message:
Sent: 7/25/2022 9:41:00 PM
From: Judye Conner
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

To: Daniel O'Brien
i saw your response to the message from Michael and found it calming and heartwarming. It's great to hear from someone that has had this experience and had successful surgery. I have a 4.2 aortic aneurysm and sine it's being monitored my biggest concern is where to have the surgery. My cardiologist wants to assure me that I may never need the surgery, the the reality is what if I do, since it's not going away. If you don't mind me asking, where did you go for your surgery and who was your surgeon? I think that would be calming for me and perhaps for Michael. Thank you in advance.
Judye Conner

------------------------------
Judye Conner
Retired PE Teacher
Las Vegas NV
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 07-24-2022 21:43
From: Daniel O'Brien
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Michael,

 

I just had my ascending aortic aneurysm replaced in February.  When they first saw it, it was 4.9 cm and the surgeon followed me for 3.5 years.  Last year it grew to 5.1 to 5.2 cm and he recommended surgery then.. You will see many sites that might suggest having the replacement surgery when goes above 5.0.  The graft should last your lifetime.  Now I feel great and I recovered pretty well after the surgery.  Modern medicine is amazing.  I wish you the best.

 

Dan

 

 

Original Message:
Sent: 7/21/2022 6:02:00 PM
From: Michael Horan
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi, my name is Michael  I have no one to talk to who has any experience with this problem, my doctor found a 4.8cm aortic aneurysm on the ascending he says I'm in good shape otherwise so he wants to wait till it's 5.5 I'm scared beyond anything I could imagine what should I expect, how long is life expectancy after the graft, how am I going to feel I have so many questions can you help me?

------------------------------
Michael Horan
retired
Cleburne TX
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-09-2021 13:04
From: Andrea Broding
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa and Cindy,
I had a TAA in 2017 at 4.3 and we watched it until 2019, when it was 5.3 and time for surgery. I found the diagnosis unnerving; it made me anxious, like I had a ticking time bomb in my chest. My doctor was supportive, but no one can change the fact that it is YOU who has to deal with it. I found prayer (Contemplative Prayer) and yoga and meditation helpful. I also may have a little abdominal aneurysm; so small the doc is unsure. I tell myself that most people have something wrong with them. They usually don't know it.  I am thankful that we found my problem before it became a really big one.
By the way, my youngest brother has a TAA in the same place, and it is a 4.0 cm. Make sure you tell your sibs to get checked.
I am happy to share about my prep for surgery, and the whole Open Heart experience, if you have questions.
My best to you,
Andrea

------------------------------
Andrea Broding
School Psychologist Retired
Santee CA

Hi Daniel 
Thank you so much for your quick reply. I live in Las Vegas, but I will keep the information that you provided in my file.
Judye Conner

------------------------------
Judye Conner
Retired PE Teacher
Las Vegas NV
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 07-26-2022 07:53
From: Daniel O'Brien
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Judye,

I live in the Chicago area so I went to Loyola Medical Center with Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz. He has an excellent reputation for aneurysms and he had a very calming confidence that helped me. I also had my aortic valve replaced and this was my second OHS. My first valve replacement lasted 21 years.

Dan

Sent from my iPhone

Original Message:
Sent: 7/25/2022 9:41:00 PM
From: Judye Conner
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

To: Daniel O'Brien
i saw your response to the message from Michael and found it calming and heartwarming. It's great to hear from someone that has had this experience and had successful surgery. I have a 4.2 aortic aneurysm and sine it's being monitored my biggest concern is where to have the surgery. My cardiologist wants to assure me that I may never need the surgery, the the reality is what if I do, since it's not going away. If you don't mind me asking, where did you go for your surgery and who was your surgeon? I think that would be calming for me and perhaps for Michael. Thank you in advance.
Judye Conner

------------------------------
Judye Conner
Retired PE Teacher
Las Vegas NV
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 07-24-2022 21:43
From: Daniel O'Brien
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Michael,

 

I just had my ascending aortic aneurysm replaced in February.  When they first saw it, it was 4.9 cm and the surgeon followed me for 3.5 years.  Last year it grew to 5.1 to 5.2 cm and he recommended surgery then.. You will see many sites that might suggest having the replacement surgery when goes above 5.0.  The graft should last your lifetime.  Now I feel great and I recovered pretty well after the surgery.  Modern medicine is amazing.  I wish you the best.

 

Dan

 

 

Original Message:
Sent: 7/21/2022 6:02:00 PM
From: Michael Horan
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi, my name is Michael  I have no one to talk to who has any experience with this problem, my doctor found a 4.8cm aortic aneurysm on the ascending he says I'm in good shape otherwise so he wants to wait till it's 5.5 I'm scared beyond anything I could imagine what should I expect, how long is life expectancy after the graft, how am I going to feel I have so many questions can you help me?

------------------------------
Michael Horan
retired
Cleburne TX


Original Message:
Sent: 09-09-2021 13:04
From: Andrea Broding
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa and Cindy,
I had a TAA in 2017 at 4.3 and we watched it until 2019, when it was 5.3 and time for surgery. I found the diagnosis unnerving; it made me anxious, like I had a ticking time bomb in my chest. My doctor was supportive, but no one can change the fact that it is YOU who has to deal with it. I found prayer (Contemplative Prayer) and yoga and meditation helpful. I also may have a little abdominal aneurysm; so small the doc is unsure. I tell myself that most people have something wrong with them. They usually don't know it.  I am thankful that we found my problem before it became a really big one.
By the way, my youngest brother has a TAA in the same place, and it is a 4.0 cm. Make sure you tell your sibs to get checked.
I am happy to share about my prep for surgery, and the whole Open Heart experience, if you have questions.
My best to you,
Andrea

------------------------------
Andrea Broding
School Psychologist Retired
Santee CA


Original Message:
Sent: 09-07-2021 08:39
From: cindy meredith
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa,
i just came across your post from last year. I've got a similar story. 63 years old, ascending aorta dilation of 4,2 from a CT scan. Interestingly enough they sent me for an echo too and that showed the dimensions at 3.9. I met with cardiologist who is sending me on to a thoracic surgeon to be followed. I have that appt in 2 weeks.  Everything I've read says that your size is mild. It may never grow beyond the current size, which is the hope. I'm just wondering how you are doing and has anything changed with your diagnosis? I'm not seeing any other posts or replies attached to this thread but I'm having trouble using this forum. Thank you!

------------------------------
Cindy M

Hi Andrea
i just read your 2021 post and wondered where you had your surgery since we both live in the west coast area. I live in Las Vegas. I have a 4.2 aortic aneurysm, diagnosed a year ago. If you don't mind me asking, where did you have your surgery and who was your surgeon. I think I want a second opinion from a surgeon. How are you progressing.
Judye Conner

------------------------------
Judye Conner
Retired PE Teacher
Las Vegas NV
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 09-09-2021 13:04
From: Andrea Broding
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa and Cindy,
I had a TAA in 2017 at 4.3 and we watched it until 2019, when it was 5.3 and time for surgery. I found the diagnosis unnerving; it made me anxious, like I had a ticking time bomb in my chest. My doctor was supportive, but no one can change the fact that it is YOU who has to deal with it. I found prayer (Contemplative Prayer) and yoga and meditation helpful. I also may have a little abdominal aneurysm; so small the doc is unsure. I tell myself that most people have something wrong with them. They usually don't know it.  I am thankful that we found my problem before it became a really big one.
By the way, my youngest brother has a TAA in the same place, and it is a 4.0 cm. Make sure you tell your sibs to get checked.
I am happy to share about my prep for surgery, and the whole Open Heart experience, if you have questions.
My best to you,
Andrea

------------------------------
Andrea Broding
School Psychologist Retired
Santee CA
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-07-2021 08:39
From: cindy meredith
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa,
i just came across your post from last year. I've got a similar story. 63 years old, ascending aorta dilation of 4,2 from a CT scan. Interestingly enough they sent me for an echo too and that showed the dimensions at 3.9. I met with cardiologist who is sending me on to a thoracic surgeon to be followed. I have that appt in 2 weeks.  Everything I've read says that your size is mild. It may never grow beyond the current size, which is the hope. I'm just wondering how you are doing and has anything changed with your diagnosis? I'm not seeing any other posts or replies attached to this thread but I'm having trouble using this forum. Thank you!

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Cindy M

Hi Melissa I was also recently diagnosed with an ascending aortic aneurysm. I was expecting a lung issue so I was quite shocked by the news but heart issues run deep in my family. Like you too soon for surgery but it does feel like a ticking time bomb when I let my anxiety get the best of me. It helps to tell myself I've probably had it a long time and just didn't know. I've totally changed my diet and went on a statin. I've been told you can live many years without it growing it's just wait and see. I wish you well I'm the same age as you very frustrated that I thought I was in good shape but smoking in my youth and genetics got the best of me. My husband has had a heart attack he tried to compare it to my condition but he can't bc u can survive a heart attack but not a dissection so yea I feel folks don't get the severity of how vulnerable I feel. I wish you all the best thank God for the technology that allows us to monitor it. Thanks for posting. Diane 




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diane stewart
retired
briarcliff manor NY
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Original Message:
Sent: 10/6/2021 11:48:00 PM
From: diane stewart
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa I was also recently diagnosed with an ascending aortic aneurysm. I was expecting a lung issue so I was quite shocked by the news but heart issues run deep in my family. Like you too soon for surgery but it does feel like a ticking time bomb when I let my anxiety get the best of me. It helps to tell myself I've probably had it a long time and just didn't know. I've totally changed my diet and went on a statin. I've been told you can live many years without it growing it's just wait and see. I wish you well I'm the same age as you very frustrated that I thought I was in good shape but smoking in my youth and genetics got the best of me. My husband has had a heart attack he tried to compare it to my condition but he can't bc u can survive a heart attack but not a dissection so yea I feel folks don't get the severity of how vulnerable I feel. I wish you all the best thank God for the technology that allows us to monitor it. Thanks for posting. Diane 




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diane stewart
retired
briarcliff manor NY
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Hello Brett Temple,
After reading your store I feel much better for my heart conditions and my mental. You're very strong and incredible. 

Thank you so much 🙏

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Long Tran
Omaha
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Original Message:
Sent: 10-13-2021 11:51
From: Brett Temple
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

I know exactly how you feel. The worry, anxiety and the "not-knowing" what the future holds can be very hard to deal with at times. Having had three heart attacks, seven stents, triple bypass surgery and 14 heart catheterizations over the past 9 years, I've had numerous times when I've wondered if this will be my last day on earth. I've gone to bed wondering if I will wake to see the sunrise. Fortunately, and thankfully, I am doing good at the moment and hope it continues for some time but I have to say that Mended Hearts has been a tremendous blessing to me, and can be for you, as well. Having always been a very fit, positive mental attitude kind of guy, I was really struggling with anxiety and depression after my OHS, something I had never experienced before and something neither the doctors nor nurses had told me was common and that I should expect. It was only through my own search for a support group that I stumbled across MH. Reading other people's stories on here of what they are dealing with and the support and encouragement I received from the group really made a huge difference on my mental outlook. Although I still have days where I don't feel good and that can get me down a bit, I'm pretty much back to my old happy-go-lucky self. The best thing you can do is stay plugged in here, listen to your doctors and live each day to its fullest, making sure you never miss a chance to tell your loved ones how you feel.

Original Message:
Sent: 10/6/2021 11:48:00 PM
From: diane stewart
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi Melissa I was also recently diagnosed with an ascending aortic aneurysm. I was expecting a lung issue so I was quite shocked by the news but heart issues run deep in my family. Like you too soon for surgery but it does feel like a ticking time bomb when I let my anxiety get the best of me. It helps to tell myself I've probably had it a long time and just didn't know. I've totally changed my diet and went on a statin. I've been told you can live many years without it growing it's just wait and see. I wish you well I'm the same age as you very frustrated that I thought I was in good shape but smoking in my youth and genetics got the best of me. My husband has had a heart attack he tried to compare it to my condition but he can't bc u can survive a heart attack but not a dissection so yea I feel folks don't get the severity of how vulnerable I feel. I wish you all the best thank God for the technology that allows us to monitor it. Thanks for posting. Diane




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diane stewart
retired
briarcliff manor NY
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10/13/2021 3:03:00 PM
From: Long Tran
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hello Brett Temple,
After reading your store I feel much better for my heart conditions and my mental. You're very strong and incredible. 

Thank you so much 🙏

------------------------------
Long Tran
Omaha
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 10-13-2021 11:51
From: Brett Temple
Subject: ascending aortic aneurysm

I know exactly how you feel. The worry, anxiety and the "not-knowing" what the future holds can be very hard to deal with at times. Having had three heart attacks, seven stents, triple bypass surgery and 14 heart catheterizations over the past 9 years, I've had numerous times when I've wondered if this will be my last day on earth. I've gone to bed wondering if I will wake to see the sunrise. Fortunately, and thankfully, I am doing good at the moment and hope it continues for some time but I have to say that Mended Hearts has been a tremendous blessing to me, and can be for you, as well. Having always been a very fit, positive mental attitude kind of guy, I was really struggling with anxiety and depression after my OHS, something I had never experienced before and something neither the doctors nor nurses had told me was common and that I should expect. It was only through my own search for a support group that I stumbled across MH. Reading other people's stories on here of what they are dealing with and the support and encouragement I received from the group really made a huge difference on my mental outlook. Although I still have days where I don't feel good and that can get me down a bit, I'm pretty much back to my old happy-go-lucky self. The best thing you can do is stay plugged in here, listen to your doctors and live each day to its fullest, making sure you never miss a chance to tell your loved ones how you feel.

Hi, I am also a newbie to this group.  Thirteen years ago, by a fluke, I was diagnosed with an ascending aortic aneurysm via and Echo, it measured around 4.6 cm.  A follow-up Echo three months later, showed that it had grown.  I immediately made an appointment at the Mayo Clinic.   A CT scan confirmed the aneurysm, but the surgeon did not feel that there at been any growth in the aneurysm - it appeared that way because of the differing angles of the Echo.   But the surgeon, at that time, also discovered that I had a bicuspid aortic valve.   This began thirteen years of monitoring the aneurysm and the valve.  For the most part - everything continued to be stable until this past year when I developed Afib.   The Afib is an electrical issue because a Nuclear Stress Test showed that my heart is receiving good blood flow throughout, and my Afib has not yet changed the size of my upper chambers.  The aneurysm is now measuring 5 cm (by an Echo measurement) - which is the tipping point when the risks of the aneurysm outweigh the risks of surgery.  Also, in seeking to control the Afib, an oblation might cause a dissection of the aneurysm.  So my doctors are recommending I proceed with Open Heart surgery.   I will be back down to Mayo next week for a CT scan, blood work and an EKG 0 then a meeting with both my surgeon and my cardiologist.   At that time surgery will be scheduled.   The surgery will fix the aneurysm and clip off the appendage where blood clots can form - for sure.   It may also entail an oblation procedure.   I am not sure if they will do anything with the valve since it continues to function without any regurgitation.   At a recent meeting, I was told that it was functioning better than anything they could replace it with.   So, we will see if that has changed. 

I am certainly anxious about what is ahead of me, but I am confident that I am in good hands.  I am trying to gather as much information as I can so that I am as prepared as I can be about what surgery and recovery will entail.   I would appreciate any insights that any can share with me.    I would especially be interested in knowing about any other online support groups that might be available -  something in a Zoom format, maybe.  

 

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David Nelson
Annandale MN
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Original Message:
Sent: 1/29/2026 11:47:00 AM
From: David Nelson
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

Hi, I am also a newbie to this group.  Thirteen years ago, by a fluke, I was diagnosed with an ascending aortic aneurysm via and Echo, it measured around 4.6 cm.  A follow-up Echo three months later, showed that it had grown.  I immediately made an appointment at the Mayo Clinic.   A CT scan confirmed the aneurysm, but the surgeon did not feel that there at been any growth in the aneurysm - it appeared that way because of the differing angles of the Echo.   But the surgeon, at that time, also discovered that I had a bicuspid aortic valve.   This began thirteen years of monitoring the aneurysm and the valve.  For the most part - everything continued to be stable until this past year when I developed Afib.   The Afib is an electrical issue because a Nuclear Stress Test showed that my heart is receiving good blood flow throughout, and my Afib has not yet changed the size of my upper chambers.  The aneurysm is now measuring 5 cm (by an Echo measurement) - which is the tipping point when the risks of the aneurysm outweigh the risks of surgery.  Also, in seeking to control the Afib, an oblation might cause a dissection of the aneurysm.  So my doctors are recommending I proceed with Open Heart surgery.   I will be back down to Mayo next week for a CT scan, blood work and an EKG 0 then a meeting with both my surgeon and my cardiologist.   At that time surgery will be scheduled.   The surgery will fix the aneurysm and clip off the appendage where blood clots can form - for sure.   It may also entail an oblation procedure.   I am not sure if they will do anything with the valve since it continues to function without any regurgitation.   At a recent meeting, I was told that it was functioning better than anything they could replace it with.   So, we will see if that has changed. 

I am certainly anxious about what is ahead of me, but I am confident that I am in good hands.  I am trying to gather as much information as I can so that I am as prepared as I can be about what surgery and recovery will entail.   I would appreciate any insights that any can share with me.    I would especially be interested in knowing about any other online support groups that might be available -  something in a Zoom format, maybe.  

 

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David Nelson
Annandale MN
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Original Message:
Sent: 1/29/2026 12:18:00 PM
From: Daniel O'Brien
Subject: RE: ascending aortic aneurysm

David,

 

I have undergone two open heart surgeries, with the most recent being 2022 surgery for an ascending aneurysm that was being followed for a few years before that.  While it is a major surgery, the excellent heart hospitals have it down pat in my opinion.  I also had a bicuspid aortic valve that was initially replaced in 2001 by a homograft that was still holding up in 2022, but was replaced out of caution.  I recovered well from the surgery all things considered.  I now have a dacron tube and cow valve in my chest.  My best simple advice following surgery is to walk, walk, and walk some more in the hospital as you are recovering.  After that cardio therapy was very helpful in the recovery.  All the best to you. 

 

Dan O'Brien