Stanford Adult Congenital Cardiologist Visit

I loved the cardiologist I met with on Thursday, March 1st. Levi liked her too. She created pictures on the computer of what my heart looks like and explained how it works. She understood and could explain when and why my body hurts like it does. She showed pictures of the machines and explained how they keep me alive while the organs are outside of my body. She suggested possible treatments to do while waiting for the transplant to continue or improve my quality of life. She said she'd love to talk with Dr. Poku to support him in continuing to care for me.

She's beyond impressed with my attitude and persistence. She loves that I push myself and encouraged me to continue do so. She loves that I’ve pushed my health boundaries with scuba diving, climbing waterfalls, etc.

I was sent home with a heart monitor to wear for the next 2 weeks.

Here are some of the questions the cardiologist and her colleague answered.

• They will keep my heart for further research with my consent.

• My transplant will take about 15 hours due to needing more time for reconstructive surgery.

• There are others out there with the exact same combination of heart defects as me. Most have had corrective surgery. Few have not like me. My heart defect is still rare and unique.

• I get to see my heart/lungs after my surgery and can take pictures of them.