Thank you for your encouraging response. After an anxious weekend--and a spike in blood pressure--I was able to see my cardiologist this morning. I'm going to have a transesophageal echocardiogram next week with a follow up in Sept. I had a good conversation with my doctor and am feeling much better. I'm getting used to the idea of surgery down the line, but I'm not one to sit quietly if I need something. I'm getting more feisty in my old age. Ha. The squeaky wheel and all that. I've found that just being nice and cooperative while asking all the questions helps too. Good luck to you. Aren't we learning a lot, eh?--P