Bicuspid Aortic Foundation View From Here January 2008

As 2008 begins, the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation is working on a number of plans. Among them are the sessions for our Third Annual Conference, which will be held in July . A great deal of important information was shared last year, and we are looking forward with anticipation to this year's event. Please check the web site often for additional information.

It is encouraging to see new papers being published in the medical literature that indicate continued focus on thoracic aortic disease. Some papers are now referring to bicuspid aortic valve disease as a syndrome in recognition of a condition that goes beyond isolated valve disease. Aortic disease in the chest continues to be a focus at various professional meetings scheduled this year as well. The Aortic Surgery Symposium, which will be held in New York in May, specifically includes the bicuspid aortic valve among the topics for which papers may be submitted. This symposium is followed immediately by the 88th Annual AATS meeting in San Diego, where there are several sessions on thoracic aortic disease as well as cardiovascular imaging.

As I look at all of these important papers and meeting presentations, I remember my desperate search for information when we first learned about my husband's ascending aortic aneurysm. It was seven years ago this month, in January 2001. The abstract of one paper, by Dr. John Burks, gave an example of two young men with BAV - it was the first glimmer of light I found, explaining why my husband had developed an aneurysm in his chest. I will always be thankful for that paper.

Today I am encouraged that much more has been published to help families with thoracic aortic disease, but also very aware that many questions remain. Those who visit the Medical References page will find links to several papers regarding BAVD and TAAD..

As 2008 unfolds, the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation will continue to increase awareness and understanding of thoracic aortic disease through dissemination of accurate information. We also are here to offer support and encouragement to all who are affected by BAV and TAAD. Those of us who volunteer with this Foundation understand BAVD and TAAD because it is present in ourselves and/or our loved ones. We invite you to join with us and welcome your calls and emails.

In 2008, through accurate information and support,
we will continue to help one another,
creating a climate of hope.

Sincerely,
Arlys Velebir
Chair, Board of Directors
Bicuspid Aortic Foundation

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Bicuspid Aortic Foundation
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