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I have known about my HOCM since 1987, but was not told of any treatment until 1996 when I was referred to Mayo Clinic. At that time Dr. Nishimura and his team suggested either a myectomy or a study program with Metronics and a pacemaker. I opted to go with the pacemaker which worked for about a year and then, as now, it is at it's limit as far as helping me. In January of 2002 my gradient had soared and by August was up to 146. At that time I was extremely uncomfortable and unable to walk more than 10 feet without stopping for a breath or two. My cardiologist and I decided it was time to do something. At this time I opted for the Alcohol Septal Ablation, due to my age (67) and stature. I also contacted and chose to go to Mayo Clinic, once again with Dr. Nishimura handling my case. I did have the ablation in October 2002 and one week later felt like I was given back my life. What a fantastic experience. and marvelous hospital. Now, February, I am walking on treadmill doing 1-1/4 miles, three/four times a week, taking less medication and still feeling great. The ablation only took away 3/4 of the muscle but that was enough. Hopefully the procedure will give me a longer and better life to look forward to. I hope to keep you informed and if I can give anyone helpful information they can contact me at my e-mail. Thank you for all of the support I have received from your organization, knowing so many people share my problem. I also have a twin sister with the same condition. Ruth Gordon
Find out more about Ruth Gordon
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I have known about my HOCM since 1987, but was not told of any treatment until 1996 when I was referred to Mayo Clinic. At that time Dr. Nishimura and his team suggested either a myectomy or a study program with Metronics and a pacemaker. I opted to go with the pacemaker which worked for about a year and then, as now, it is at it's limit as far as helping me. In January of 2002 my gradient had soared and by August was up to 146. At that time I was extremely uncomfortable and unable to walk more than 10 feet without stopping for a breath or two. My cardiologist and I decided it was time to do something. At this time I opted for the Alcohol Septal Ablation, due to my age (67) and stature. I also contacted and chose to go to Mayo Clinic, once again with Dr. Nishimura handling my case. I did have the ablation in October 2002 and one week later felt like I was given back my life. What a fantastic experience. and marvelous hospital. Now, February, I am walking on treadmill doing 1-1/4 miles, three/four times a week, taking less medication and still feeling great. The ablation only took away 3/4 of the muscle but that was enough. Hopefully the procedure will give me a longer and better life to look forward to. I hope to keep you informed and if I can give anyone helpful information they can contact me at my e-mail. Thank you for all of the support I have received from your organization, knowing so many people share my problem. I also have a twin sister with the same condition. Ruth Gordon
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Thank you for sharing your story with us Ruth
Knowledge is power ... Stay informed!
YOU can make a difference - all you have to do is try!
Dx age 12 current age 46 and counting!
lost: 5 family members to HCM (SCD, Stroke, CHF)
Others diagnosed living with HCM (or gene +) include - daughter, niece, nephew, cousin, sister and many many friends!
Therapy - ICD (implanted 97, 01, 04 and 11, medication
Currently not obstructed
Complications - unnecessary pacemaker and stroke (unrelated to each other) -
Ruth, It's so nice to read about your great results. It is sure to be an encouragement to many. LindaComment
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Ruth,
It is wonderful that the ablation procedure has given you back your life. We need ablation people here on the board to help out newcomers who are considering further treatment options. I'm sure you will be needed.
Bob HartwellCleveland Myectomy Crew
Member since November 2002
\"Chance favors the prepared mind!\"Comment
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ablation
Hi Ruth and welcome. I too had my Ablation @MUSC Jan. 21, 2003. It was a life changing event. I couldent walk from one end of my home to the next without feeling I was about to pass out.
I am so glad your quality of life has been given back to you. Keep us posted on your progress. ConnieThe BEST is yet to come !!Comment
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ablation
Ruth, glad you are feeling much better. I also had my ablation in Oct. 2002. You are correct when you said we have our lives back. All i really wanted to do was be physically able to run with my grandchildren again. God is so good!!! Take care. OH! By the way I,m 53 years young.JanisComment
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It's great to read these stories. We need continuing progress reports, and coming from those who've had such good results with any of the treatment options is a message of hope for others. Keep sharing! LindaComment
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