I was diagnosed with one hole in my heart more than 20 years ago, and the second one in 2007—one ASD and one PDA. By this time I was in my early 70s and experiencing dizziness, breathlessness, fatigue and fluid retention. I lived in a small condo and had trouble breathing just from walking from one room to another. Getting dressed was difficult and I could not do much of anything.

After the second diagnosis, my doctor wanted to do this procedure right away. Both holes were closed with Amplatzer devices at Evanston Northwestern Hospital in Evanston, Illinois. I was surprised that I did not have to be put to sleep for the procedure.

I feel so much better. My life has completely changed. Before, I was very limited. I can walk up and down three floors in my current home, and I no longer need assistance with everyday tasks. Within two weeks after the procedure, my sons came to Chicago to go to a Cubs game. We had to park far away, but I was able to walk to Wrigley Field—and all over—with my sons. I feel younger, and everyone tells me I look younger. I can now enjoy being active with my 8-year-old triplet grandchildren, volunteering at church and being independent.