- Bicuspid Aortic Valve
- Interviews
Mike's interview
How did all start?
From what I remember, I was about 15 and I went to the Drs with a chest infection. Whilst being checked out the Dr, who wasn't my normal dr asked how long I'd has my heart murmer. To which the shock set in, obviously I didn't know what he was going on about.
From that moment on a lot of tests were run and eventually a diagnosis.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Yes. It probably took about 6 months to eventually get an accurate diagnosis.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
Nothing as yet.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Information about the condition from lots of different places. Usually from other people with the condition.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
None really as yet
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
At first it was a bit worrying for my family until more was known about it, but in the main nothing has changed.
What things have you stopped doing?
I have no restrictions really. I just listen to the signs my body gives me.
What do you think about the future?
What will happen will happen.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
Not sure really
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Scuba diving
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Interesting but trying at times.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Always listen to your body. Try to give your body the best chance to survive should the worst happen. But don't sacrifice enjoying life. It's for living.
