Sent: December 8, 2010

To: Adams, David

Subject: Thank You

Dr. Adams and Dr. Varghese,

It has been five months since my surgery and I wanted to let you both know that I am doing very well. It's not easy to find out at 30 yrs old that you need open heart surgery but thanks to you and your team I had the best experience possible at Mount Sinai. When I found out I needed surgery I spent hours on the internet looking for the right doctor. When I saw that your website was devoted entirely to mitral valve repair and not replacement, I knew that you were the right doctors for me. Initially I was concerned about having the surgery via thoracotomy because I was afraid it would be more painful. I was surprised to find that I had only mild pain after surgery. Three days after I was discharged my husband and I were enjoying a July 4th BBQ with our friends. I am signed up to run my first road race in two weeks, hopefully a few minutes faster than before my surgery. I have included a picture of me from my best friend's wedding in October, in a black dress that I felt comfortable wearing because of the thoracotomy. I hope that the pictures will help other people feel good about the choice they make to have mitral valve surgery, it really is worth it. I will never find the words to thank you for what you did for me and my family.

I would also like to thank you for recommending Dr. Martin. He is an excellent doctor and says that my repair looks as good as it did the day after surgery. All the best to you and your staff, and thank you again.

Jennifer B.