In July, 2007, I had open heart surgery to replace a congenitally deformed aortic valve and to repair an aortic aneurism. They gave me a cow valve and a long piece of dacron hose where my ascending aorta used to be.

I never had a symptom. I ran marathons. I played competitive basketball. I was averaging about 100 miles a week on the bike when they told me I need open heart surgery. It was pretty scary.

A year later, everything is good. I'm riding better than ever, at age 58, almost 59. I don't have to take any meds. Somewhere between 10 and 20 years, I will likely have to get another new heart valve, but until then, I'm going to do my best to wear out the one I"ve got now!

Screw all the doctor stuff. Do what you can, push it if you can, and don't let any of them tell you to take it easy!

John