Just Saying Hello!

Hello Everyone!  I am new here and I just wanted to introduce myself.  My name is Stephanie and I am a 33 year old CHD Survivor.  I was born with Tetralogy of Fallot in 1987 and had my corrective repair in 1990.  I was fairly asymptomatic throughout adolescence and my condition wasn't necessarily a concern to me.   Early into adulthood, my cardiologist had noticed that my pulmonary function was deteriorating and I received a bioprosthetic pulmonary valve at the age of 21.  In 2011 my pacemaker/defibrillator was implanted.  This device allowed me to safely carry and give birth to my son, who is now six.

My only limitation growing up was contact sports, but I was never the athletic type, so that really didn't affect me.  When I was told I would need a new pulmonary valve, I was floored.  At the time, my energy had been low but I was also working full-time and carrying a full college course load.  I assumed I was just overworked.  Once my PVR was replaced I was amazed at how much energy I had!  I've always enjoyed hiking and the first thing I did was fly to the Midwest and hike throughout the major National Parks.  It was at this point that I really began to focus on my physical health.  I began running- SLOWLY- and became amazed at what my body was capable of.  With my family, I entered mud runs, 5ks, 10ks, and of course continued to hike.  

My husband and I married in 2011 and a few months later I began having dizzy and fainting spells.  Through the use of a holter monitor, it was discovered my heart was racing at random times.  My cardiologist explained that this is a common response to previous treatments for TOF and recommended I have a AICD (pacemaker/defibrillator combo).  It was probably the first time I remember feeling frustrated about my heart condition and what it could possibly mean for my future. Months after, we asked about the risks involved in carrying a child.  My cardiologist gave us a very cautious green light and I was closely monitored by him and a local high risk OB office.  Being a mother was always my dream and the fact that it was now a realtiy had me elated.  I loved pregnancy and did incredibly well through most of it.  Labor and delivery was very bumpy, cardiac wise, and due to this, we have decided to keep us a happy family of three.  

SO!  That is my story in a long winded nutshell.  I am looking forward to getting to know the members of this community and reading your heart stories!