Holly’s life changed thanks to innovative heart valve procedure

Holly Herlitzke was born with a congenital heart defect that caused her aortic valve to narrow over time. Around her 32nd birthday, the active mom of two young kids faced an agonizing choice.

She could have a mechanical valve placed, which meant medications for the rest life and limits on physical activity.  Or for the best quality of life, she could travel to Madison for the Ross procedure, where doctors would replace her damaged aortic valve with her own pulmonary valve, and then give her a donor valve to take its place.

“After speaking with my cardiologist in La Crosse, I knew the Ross procedure was the right choice for me,” Holly said. “I’m so glad to have found leading experts on this surgery in my backyard.”

One of the best programs in the country, the UW Health Congenital Heart Program is a specialized referral center for this procedure and sees patients from across the United States.

“The Ross procedure is perfect for active adults under 50, in part because it does not often require medications like blood thinners that can make exercise and other daily activities more challenging or risky,” shared cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Petros Anagnostopoulos.

Since having the procedure in December 2021, Holly has been able to enjoy her favorite activities—archery and hiking with her family. She even ran her first 5K in late 2022.

“I’m so thankful for my care at UW Health,” she said. “Thanks to Dr. Anagnostopoulos and my whole care team, I’m able to live the life I love and even challenge myself with new activities like running.”

Share Your Story

Did UW Health or the UW School of Medicine and Public Health have a life-changing impact on you or someone you love? Be part of the Wisconsin Medicine story by inspiring others with your story. Share it now.