Bicuspid Aortic Foundation View From Here

May 5, 2006

Sitting in a waiting room recently, I found myself included in a wonderful "support group" that formed spontaneously. None of us had met before, but we all had something in common - something called "stroke". Like myself, some were accompanying a family member that has suffered a stroke. Others were actual stroke survivors themselves. I was amazed at how quickly we bonded. There was instant understanding. We were all focused on the best possible recovery, on regaining our lives. Yes, stroke does that.....it joins together suvivors who are determined to live in a climate of hope.

How is it that those with BAVD or some other form of TAAD find themselves amongst stroke survivors?

Stroke or "brain attack" causes injury to the brain in one of two ways, through either bleeding or blockage of blood vessels in the brain. Those with Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease and Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm may be at risk of stroke for several reasons.

"Embolic stroke", caused by particles blocking the blood vessels of the brain, might seem to be the only risk for those with BAVD and TAAD. It is true that blood clots, calcification, and plaque are potential sources of particles that might cause stroke if they reach the brain. In Richard Houchin's experience we see that aortic tissue fragments may travel to the brain during aortic dissection. My husband's stroke (see February 2006) resulted from valvular strands. Yes, there are numerous reasons why those with BAVD and TAAD might experience this type of stroke. But they are not exempt from the risk of bleeding in the brain either. There is an association with BAVD and brain aneurysms, introducing the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. Carrie Mettler's story is shared to encourage those with BAVD to be checked for brain aneurysms.

I have learned a great deal from those who live each day with the affects of stroke. Encircled by some of them in that waiting room, I felt honored to be among a very special group of survivors. Their wisdom is so costly, their love of life contagious! Listening to their words, along with expressions of the very real fear and devastation associated with stroke, I also heard determination, courage, hope, love and joy. I was very grateful for their inspiration that day. And again I was reminded of how much each of us can do to create a climate of hope.

In sharing our experience, may we always create a climate of hope.

With very best wishes to all,

Arlys Velebir

Chair, Board of Directors
Bicuspid Aortic Foundation

Contact Us

Bicuspid Aortic Foundation
30100 Town Center Drive, Suite O-299
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Telephone
Toll free in the US (888) 310-HOPE (4673)
or
(949) 495-0027

Fax: (949) 606-0413

Email: contactus@bicuspidfoundation.com

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