Julia Butterworth, a 53-year-old grandmother, experienced severe heart issues that led her to prepare for her funeral. Doctors deemed further valve replacements unsuitable, but a dedicated team at Leeds General Infirmary explored alternative treatments. They successfully performed a world-first keyhole heart valve surgery in September 2024, using an innovative valve sourced from India. Just eight months post-surgery, Julia is recovering well, having shifted from planning her end to embracing her future with family, citing her grandchildren as her motivation throughout the ordeal.
"It was a first-in-the-world procedure," the Gildersome, West Yorks resident said. "I wasn't scared of the operation, I think it was just the unknown...my inspiration was to get well for my family and grandchildren."
Doctors across the UK told them nothing further could be done. However, the medical team at Leeds General Infirmary refused to give up, and began looking into alternative treatment.
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