I can’t express my happiness when I read this Facebook post; with the family permission , I’ll share with you

“This morning, my Illinois family and I walked the 2020 5k Head for the Cure, virtual walk to raise money and awareness for Brain Cancer in honor of my nephew, who by the way is doing great!”

My mom, Dolores Lenz ( 85 years young) walked the entire race. So proud of her!!!!”

I have known Dolores for more than 15 years and she has been not only my patient , but a good friend. I’ve always hoped to surround myself with her sophisticated and yet simple elegance as I grow older.

Dolores started to “slow down”over the last two years , due to progressive aortic stenosis. The Good Shepherd hospital team decided to proceed with TAVR , the new aortic valve replacement, without open heart surgery. I was grateful to make this decision together with Dolores and her entire family , having the expertise of Janet Lenz , her daughter in law, my very good friend , and one of the best heart failure specialist in our area.

Dolores went through the procedure easily , without any complications, reminding me of her peaceful and aristocratic way of speaking and behaving.

Here we are today ,about one year after Tavr ,joining a family gathering for a 5K walk.  One year ago Dolores was limiting her activities to walking around the house , due to significant shortness of breath.

Thank you , Dolores, your recovery is the best gift !

Thank you , Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital and the TAVR team led by Dr. Jeffrey Freihage