Episode 05: ”I Consider Myself Lucky” — Al’s Story

In this episode, Al Hurren discusses his familial and personal experience of having a bicuspid aortic valve and being treated for an ascending aortic aneurysm. As a self-proclaimed optimist by nature, Al shares his experience of discovering his condition in his thirties, managing it through lifestyle choices, and undergoing surgery with a positive outlook.

When asked what he would say to someone who may have recently been diagnosed or who may be overwhelmed by their condition, Al encourages listeners to think about this experience as being the start of a new chapter and to look beyond their surgery or diagnosis and approach it with a positive perspective. He highlights the benefits of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, connecting with others who have similar lived experiences, and taking the time to learn about your condition so you can be informed of the risks it may pose and how you may be able to mitigate such risks.

For more on cardiovascular risk factors, visit canetinc.ca/cardiovascular-health/ To connect with others who have similar lived experiences, join the CANet Community of Patients & Caregivers at www.facebook.com/canetinc