Peter Lawrence
In August 1988, Dr. Keon replaced my aortic valve with a metal one. Of all the challenges I faced while recovering, the greatest was an emotional and mental one.
It was very difficult immediately after surgery for me to get my head around the idea of getting well and exercising again. However, I stuck to my challenge and thanks to the help of the Heart Institute doctors, nursing team, and admin, I have successfully built my fitness and stamina. I currently swim three times each week and teach a group of 24 children (ages 8 to 14) to play water polo as a certified coach with the Water Polo Canada organization.
Thanks to the Ottawa Heart Institute, and especially Dr. Keon, I’m back to leading a healthy, active life.
