Brud Bavera

Brud Bavera discovered he had a bad heart valve in the summer of 2004. Brud, a photographer and farmer, began to notice that he easily ran out of breath, when he exerted himself. He visited his doctor and underwent a stress test, which revealed his heart’s condition. He decided to have his valve repaired so that he could continue his active life on the farm without having to rest constantly or alter his work habits.

		Before having the surgery, Brud was determined to find a surgeon whom he liked and trusted. One day, Brud met a lady who worked in Public Relations for a cardiac group and asked for her opinion on the best cardiac surgeons in the Pittsburgh area. She recommended Dr. Dan Pellegrini because he had repaired both of her parents’ hearts. Brud and Dr. Pellegrini met, talked about Brud’s condition and options for treatment, and became friends. They agreed that, if possible, Dr. Pellegrini would repair Brud’s heart valve. If repair was impossible, Brud’s valve would be replaced.
Brud’s surgery was successfully performed at Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on April 23, 2007. Brud’s mitral valve was repaired with a Carpentier-Edwards Physio annuloplasty ring. The surgery was followed by a recovery that was “no walk in the park” and “seemed to take forever.” However, one day during the eighth week following the surgery, Brud “felt great and was ready to go. It was like magic!” On two occasions prior to his heart valve repair surgery, Brud tried and was unable to climb Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park. In August 2007, Brud visited Yosemite again and was able to successfully complete the climb. “The climb was difficult at best, but I was able to do it. Physically, I feel better. Mentally, I am more confident. Life in general is much better.” Brud credits Dr. Pellegrini with his new lease on life. “These cardiac surgeons, such as Dr. Pellegrini, are so good at what they do. They’re able to ensure the quality of your life. What a noble profession.” Brud will be forever grateful.