“I’m starting to think about what I want to do in my 70’s. It’s exciting to be able to look forward to the future again and start planning for all the things I want to do.”
Since 2001, Debra David, 68, has been managing a connective tissue disorder, Marfan’s Syndrome, which has led her through a long history of heart procedures, including five open-heart surgeries.
Her most recent surgery was her first at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC), and Debra shares, “I could immediately tell this experience was going to be different. I was really impressed by the level of care I received while I was there.”
“This surgery has given me a new outlook on life. I honestly didn’t think I’d make it to 69, but now they’re telling me I should be good for a while,” Debra adds. “I’m starting to think about what I want to do in my 70’s. It’s exciting to be able to look forward to the future again and start planning for all the things I want to do.”
A few months ago, Debra started having severe difficulty breathing. After extensive medical testing, she was referred to Dr. Ioannis Loumiotis, MD, Director of Aortic Surgery at RWJBH Northern Division and a member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, for further care.
“Debra had a complicated surgical history with four previous open-heart surgeries already. At this point she had a large pseudoaneurysm (aneurysm created at the anastomosis from previous operations) and a leaky aortic valve. The combination of two is very deadly,” says Dr. Loumiotis.
It was determined Debra would need to have an extensive aortic reconstruction to fix the aortic root/valve as well as a repair to fix a pseudoaneurysm in her heart. An extensive work up was initiated, and Debra was brought in for consultation.
Debra recalls, “Dr. Loumiotis really took his time with me and had me go through hours of preoperative testing. No one had done that before and it assured me that he was truly looking into my case. He was very caring and easy to talk to which made a huge difference.”
As for after her successful surgery, Debra shares, “The Cardio Thoracic Intensive Care Unit (CTICU) nurses, the CTICU Step Down unit, and everybody stopping by to check on me were really easy to work with, nice, helpful, and I enjoyed talking to them. They made me feel comfortable.”
Reflecting on the challenges of her past surgeries at different locations, she admits to being surprised by how quickly she recovered this time. “I was discharged after seven days, where my last surgery had me in the hospital for over a month,” says Debra.
After surgery, Debra appreciated how Dr. Loumiotis emphasized the importance of a personalized recovery plan to her. “Her recovery went as expected, and we monitored her closely to make sure she could safely continue healing at home. Every patient case is unique, and our goal is to support them every step of the way,” shares Dr. Loumiotis.
“At our Aortic Center at the Northern Division of RWJBH we have developed the expertise to perform these extremely challenging cases that most of cardiac surgery programs would not perform. Debra had a successful fifth cardiac surgery operation and her recovery went great!” says Dr. Loumiotis.
Debra also credits daughter’s support for getting her through the recovery process. “She’s been so kind and good to me through all of this, along with her large group of friends has made such a difference.”
With surgery behind her, Debra is looking forward to getting her energy back, resuming life, and going back to her job as an architect. “Before, I couldn’t even breathe properly. Soon, I’ll be able to go out with my daughter and enjoy the spring weather by working in my backyard again,” she shares.
Debra also works with the Montclair History Center, serving on The Board of Trustees. Having missed the last two months, she is looking forward to spending her Friday mornings there.
About CBMC’s Heart and Vascular Care
No one plans on heart problems, but everyone should have a plan for them. Make a plan for your heart health at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. Our multidisciplinary team of experts provide comprehensive, compassionate care. Learn more about our programs and specialties, which include diagnosis, treatment, and continued support for people living with cardiovascular and thoracic conditions.