Cardiac Surgery Patient Testimonials

Meet David who underwent extensive open-heart surgery at our Concord Medical Center in 2024. Today, he proudly calls himself "a classic car with a rebuilt engine, ready to tackle his 70s." After years of routine cardiology check-ups, David was diagnosed with mitral regurgitation—despite feeling great.

With the expertise of his cardiac team, led by Dr. Christopher Wulff and Dr. Ramesh Veeragandham, David embarked on a journey to repair his heart and reclaim his health. During recovery, David found solace in writing, capturing his experiences and reflections: “Writing helped me process the roller coaster of emotions. It gave me a way to document not just my challenges but the gratitude I feel for my care team and my second chance at life.”

Through weeks of recovery, courage, and determination, David’s heart found a perfect rhythm—beep, beep, beep—a beautiful reminder of the power of expert care and unwavering support. This journey gave me a new, more grateful look at life. I’m inspired to seek out goodness and beauty in the world.” Join us in celebrating David’s recovery and the exceptional work of our cardiovascular care team at John Muir Health. Together, we’re transforming lives—one heartbeat at a time

Larry’s life took an unexpected turn after seeking care for what he thought was severe congestion caused by allergies. He was shocked to learn he had a rare and complex cancer that started in his sinuses and spread to his brain. Larry was referred to a surgical team at John Muir Health using advanced techniques that improve outcomes and the patient experience.

Neurosurgeon Dr. Max B. Merkow and ENT Skull Base Surgeon Dr. Jeehong Peter Kim collaborated to remove Larry’s cancer through his nose. This approach avoided traditional brain surgery, which would have required a large opening of his skull. This endoscopic, minimally invasive surgery meant a safer, scarless procedure with less pain and a quicker recovery. Larry was able to leave the hospital just a few days after the operation.

“Drs. Merkow and Kim are amazing – being able to do what they did through the nose, wow!” Larry said. “John Muir Health is a very caring place – the nurses were responsive and took great care of me.”

This complex surgery required close collaboration between two highly specialized surgeons. We are fortunate to have the expertise of Drs. Kim and Merkow, right here in the East Bay.

Meet Puneet, a dedicated technical product manager, loving husband, and proud father. His heart health journey began at just 10 years old when he underwent surgery to treat a narrowing aorta. The procedure allowed Puneet to live an active and fulfilling life. But several years later during a routine cardiology checkup, Puneet’s doctor discovered an aortic aneurysm—one that had grown to twice its normal size.

Although Puneet had no symptoms, the news left him feeling anxious and uncertain about his future. Fortunately, he was in the care of a compassionate and highly skilled cardiothoracic surgical team. Puneet’s surgeon worked closely with him, taking the time to explain the treatment plan in detail: an aortic valve repair, where the damaged aorta would be replaced with a synthetic graft, while the root and aortic valve were carefully preserved. This intricate approach offered Puneet the chance to live a healthy, normal life once again. The surgery was a great success, and Puneet is forever grateful to his care team for “giving [him] a new life.”

Today, Puneet is back to enjoying life with his young son and wife, working full-time, and even volunteering—living proof of the power of expert care and hope.