Keri Pratt, an Edmonton woman in her early 30s, discovered a serious health issue during her annual physical when her doctor detected an unusual sound in her heart. This led to further investigations, resulting in a diagnosis of a bicuspid aortic valve, a congenital heart defect that affects the aortic valve's normal function, causing blood to flow improperly. Such conditions are more prevalent among the aging population but can occur at any age, affecting over a million Canadians and necessitating medical intervention through valve repair or replacement.

At age 39, after monitoring her condition and its progression, Pratt underwent a Ross procedure — a complex surgical technique that involves replacing the damaged aortic valve with the patient's own pulmonary valve while substituting the pulmonary valve with a donor valve. The procedure is designed to ensure proper blood flow within the heart, significantly improving the patient's quality of life and reducing the risk of severe complications associated with untreated heart valve diseases.

Pratt's experience underscores the importance of routine health checkups, as early detection can lead to life-saving interventions. Awareness about congenital heart defects and their implications can empower patients to seek timely medical advice, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and preventative care among the population, especially in younger adults who may overlook heart health.