Mended Hearts Open Forum

In 2012 I had open heart to replace an ascending aortic aneurysm, replace a bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) and three bypasses. The aneurysm was discovered through a $49 calcium scoring test offered through a local hospital. That test save my life and will always remain as the best $49 I ever spent. In addition, knowing that the BAV is a heritable condition especially with males, I encouraged (persistently nagged) my brothers and son to get checked. Only my son was discovered to have the BAV and the beginning of an enlarged ascending aorta. He has been under the watchful eye of a cardiologist since 2012. His aneurysm has now enlarged to the point where he will need open heart surgery to replace it. That is scheduled for the end of June. While we are all disheartened that at 42 he has to undergo this major surgery, we are so very grateful for the early awareness of this condition as it now provides him with the opportunity for this life saving surgery. Knowledge is a powerful tool.

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Kirk Mangold
New Whiteland IN
(317) 753-2580
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Hi, 

My son has a Bicuspid Aortic Valve. It was diagnosed as an infant. He has other heart defects as well, some of been corrected, others we are still waiting to have corrected (The BAV being one). Good luck to your son, and welcome to the community!

Andrea

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Andrea Baer
Director of Patient Advocacy
Mended Hearts/Mended Little Hearts
Grapeville PA
7243967820
Director of Patient Advocacy
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