Put on Your Red Dress!

 

Christi’s Story

 

When I was born, my doctors heard a heart murmur and found that my Aortic Valve did not fully open; I had congenital aortic stenosis.

 

Throughout childhood, I followed up with cardiologists and did not experience many concerning symptoms. My parents were told to watch for signs like shortness of breath, fainting and extreme exhaustion. I was even allowed to play whatever sport I desired.

 

It wasn't until I was pregnant with my first child at the age of 27 that I noticed any signs of concern. I began to have fainting spells and was strictly monitored throughout my pregnancy. I tolerated 22 and 1/2 hours of labor and a surprise c-section with no problems.  

 

When my son was about two, we decided to try for another baby. After a check-up with my cardiologist and some testing, it seemed the thickness of my aortic valve had increased, but not severely enough to prevent having my daughter. She was born September 2006, free and clear of any complications.

 

In January of 2009 I began to notice that I was incredibly tired. That was my first sign. Then, when I did something simple like walk through the mall, I became short of breath. That was the second sign. I was just not feeling like myself. Ultimately, that is what led me back to the cardiologist.

 

After several tests I got "the call.” My valve stenosis had escalated to severe, and I was facing possible surgery. June 11, 2009, at age 34, I underwent open heart surgery for a mechanical valve replacement. I spent the remainder of the summer of 2009 in the bed healing and praising God for signs I could recognize.  

 

By October 2009, I was carrying my sweet three year old girl across the neighborhood with ease! It was such a sweet gift; I had missed carrying her and watching my seven year old run and play. No more reasons to worry about Mommy now! 

 

Today, I am a happily married mother of three. We are a very busy household AND I have just started my own company, Christi’s Casseroles! I think it's safe to say there is definitely life after open heart surgery! I have made big adjustments, such as being on a blood thinner for the remainder of my life, but I am back and I feel great! Life with Aortic Stenosis gave me a new perspective on what is really important: my God, my health, my family! I consider it a blessing that I have seen life from these eyes.

 

Heart disease affects women of all ages. It is vital that women listen to their bodies, and act diligently when symptoms present themselves.

- More than 42 million women are currently living with some form of cardiovascular disease.

- More than 8 million women have a history of heart attack and/or angina.

- Five and a half million women will suffer angina.