Tayshia Hatcher: My name is Tayshia Hatcher.

Dr. Singer: Thank you for allowing us to share your story for educational purposes. You’re 69 years old, and you underwent open heart surgery just a few hours ago. Can you tell us what led to today’s operation?

Tayshia: In November 2025, I suffered a stroke. At first, doctors weren’t sure what caused it. Later, an echocardiogram revealed several small growths on my aortic valve. The concern was that one or more of those growths had broken loose and traveled to my brain, causing the stroke.

Dr. Singer: When we reviewed your case together, we agreed that those growths placed you at significant risk for another stroke. During surgery today, we removed four to five of these benign growths from your aortic valve and were able to repair your native valve without needing a valve replacement.

How are you feeling now?

Tayshia: Honestly, I feel great. It’s only about eight hours after surgery, and I have absolutely no pain while resting. I expected it to be much worse than it was.

Dr. Singer: Many people believe a traditional sternotomy always results in severe pain, but modern surgical techniques have changed that experience for many patients. Your incision is also quite small and positioned low on the chest, making it much less noticeable after healing.

Tayshia: I was surprised by how comfortable I’ve been. The entire experience has been much easier than I imagined.

Dr. Singer: The surgery went exactly as we hoped. We successfully removed the valve growths while preserving your own aortic valve. Because of that, we expect a smooth recovery, and you should be able to return home within just a few days.

How has your experience been at Jefferson Einstein Montgomery Hospital?

Tayshia: The care has been outstanding. Everyone has been professional, knowledgeable, compassionate, and incredibly supportive. I truly couldn’t ask for better care.

Dr. Singer: Tomorrow we’ll remove your chest drain, get you sitting up, and have you walking the halls. You’re an excellent example of how patients can undergo traditional open heart surgery, avoid another potentially devastating stroke, and recover comfortably with modern surgical techniques. Thank you for sharing your experience.

Tayshia: Thank you.