When we received the reports from this consultation, we read them carefully. We
compared them to previous records over the years. Going through our file of his records reminded me again of how important obtaining and reviewing medical reports are for all of us. As I write this, I am thinking of a grieving widow. After her husband's death from aortic dissection, she read in his medical record from the cardiologist's office that he had a probable bicuspid aortic valve and an aortic aneurysm. If only they had known when they went to the ER, perhaps the physicians there would have found his torn aorta before it killed him. I want to share an important resource with you, to help you understand how much difference this can make in your life and that of your loved ones. The link below is an interview with Dr. Laura Nathanson, who lost her husband to cancer. Although the condition her husband had was not thoracic aortic disease, the lessons she learned are important ones. Here is a link to that video Health Matters: Medical Misdiagnosis As we take positive steps to partner with our physicians, together we create a climate of hope. Sincerely, 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) or495-0027 Fax: (949) 606-0413 Email: contactus@bicuspidfoundation.com Copyright © 2004 - 2008, Bicuspid Aortic Foundation. All Rights Reserved. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation recognizes the importance of maintaining the privacy of individuals who use its web site. In using the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation web site, you are agreeing to the terms of this privacy policy. If you do not wish to accept the terms of this privacy policy, please do not access the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation web site. All personal information provided to the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation will be kept confidential within the Foundation, and will not be disclosed to any third party without the permission of the individual. Email and messages sent through the web site are not secure. Therefore, personal information you transmit to the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation may be intercepted by others and is done at your own risk. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation may contact you regarding topics of interest. If you do not wish to receive such communications, you may contact the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation and indicate that you do not wish to receive them. If at a later time you again wish to receive such information, you may indicate that by contacting the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation makes no representation whatsoever regarding the privacy policy of other web sites whose links are on the Bicuspid Foundation web site. Your usage of other web sites is entirely at your own risk. You should carefully read the privacy policies of all web sites that you visit. Please contact the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation regarding any questions you may have about this policy. The information on the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation website is provided for general informational purposes only. This information is not professional, legal, or medical advice. Any medications, products, or treatment mentioned are presented as information only and do not constitute any recommendation, approval, or endorsement. Any information is general in nature and is not a substitute for medical care. You should contact a physician or other qualified medical professional for advice about all health-related conditions. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation, including its officers, directors, volunteers and any others acting on its behalf, individually and collectively, make no representations or warranties, expressed or implied, regarding the contents of this website, including its accuracy, completeness, or reliability. Any links or references to other websites provided on the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation website are made available as a convenience only. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation has not reviewed all of the websites linked to this website and is not responsible for the content of these sites or your use of them. |
Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease |
All aortic aneurysm and dissection in the chest |
For families and medical professionals, by families and medical professionals |
Creating a climate of hope, an atmosphere of caring, and a source of information for
all who are touched by thoracic aortic disease and the medical professionals
who care for them. |
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Creating a climate of hope |
BICUSPID AORTIC FOUNDATION |
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Is Something We Create Together . . . .
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The View from Here . . . Medical Records - They're All About You |
Recently, I went with my husband to consult with a new physician. Before we left the clinic that day, he signed forms requesting that all reports be sent to us. There was a time when we did not understand how important it is to do this. For years, important information about my husband's aorta was filed away in a hospital. At the time his BAV was replaced, a bulge was noted in his ascending aorta. We never saw the report then, and we were never told anything at all. Day after day, year after year, his aorta silently bulged more and more - until the day it was discovered, in time for him to have the aneurysm lurking there removed. |