Dan Carrasco, 50, was visiting his doctor to discuss recent bouts of dizziness and breathlessness. His doctor tested his heart and discovered he had a heart murmur. He was then diagnosed with
arterial stenosis, and told he would eventually need heart surgery. A few months later, Dan was back at the doctor's for a knee scope and to prepare for back surgery. He was given a stress test and heart catheterization, when the doctors determined that he needed valve replacement surgery.
Two months after that, Dan had the valve surgery at The Medical Center of Aurora and has been on the upswing ever since. Dan's experience changed his perspective on life and how to live it best.
"It was not until I almost lost my life that I realized how critical it is we take care of our health every day. If I had died, it would not have only ended my ability to achieve my goals on this earth, but it would have significantly affected the quality of life for my beloved wife and my children and grandchildren. That is not okay. The responsibility I have to myself and my entire family is very clear to me now."
Visit the
Museum of Heart on Saturday, May 16, from 10 AM - 3 PM, the general public is invited to discover all things heart at The Museum of Heart, hosted by The Medical Center of Aurora.
The Museum showcases the original Jarvik-7 artificial heart and DaVinci Surgical Robot among in addition to learning how the human heart works, watching live demonstrations of lifesaving technologies, and much more.
The exhibit also will include an interactive kids zone hosted by the American Heart Association and will feature artwork by local students, grades K-12.
For more information about this event visit
www.museumofheart.auroramed.com