In a revelation that has touched the hearts of fans and onlookers alike, TV host and model Rachel McCord is set for a life-changing medical procedure.
Rachel McCord, facing a degenerative heart condition known as mitral valve prolapse, is preparing for urgent open heart surgery slated for February 27th amidst years of battling symptoms that have severely impacted her life and her young family.
This diagnosis comes after years of experiencing alarming symptoms such as fainting, breathlessness, and fatigue, which have affected not only her daily activities but also her ability to care fully for her three-year-old son, Jude.
Rachel McCord, who is widely recognized for her roles on television and her work as a model, has lived with the undiagnosed condition for years, with symptoms beginning to appear six years ago. It was not until December that she was officially diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse, a condition that causes the heart valves to malfunction and disrupt normal blood and oxygen flow.
This diagnosis shed light on the years of distress and confusion she faced, often feeling misunderstood by the medical community until a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) confirmed her condition. In her own words, Rachel described the overwhelming nature of her diagnosis and the prospect of open heart surgery.
I'm riding the waves of just bursting into tears, thinking about what the surgery is like. I have a three-and-a-half-year-old, and chasing him around when I am panting for breath has been intense.
The family has played a crucial role in Rachel's journey to health. Her sister, actress AnnaLynne McCord, along with her husband and son, Jude, have been pillars of support. Rachel has used her family's experiences, such as Jude's tonsillectomy, to help prepare her son for her upcoming surgery, making the process more relatable and less frightening for the young child. This approach underscores her commitment to her family and her determination to face her health challenges with bravery and openness.
Mitral valve prolapse affects a small but significant portion of the population, with about 1.2 in every 100 people diagnosed. While many cases do not require treatment, Rachel's condition has progressed to necessitate surgery. The surgery aims to correct the valve malfunction by opening her chest and involving a heart-lung machine—a procedure not without risks but one that offers a chance for a more normal life.
Rachel has been vocal about her condition, her surgery, and the expected recovery process. She shared, "It takes three months for your heart to heal because it's got to correct blood flow." Despite the daunting prospect of surgery and a lengthy recovery, Rachel finds solace and strength in her love for her family and her religious faith.
Throughout her health ordeal, Rachel has remained an advocate for understanding and compassion for those facing unseen battles. She is co-CEO of Launch Viral and founder of the McCord List, initiatives that focus on female empowerment and entrepreneurship. These platforms exemplify her commitment to using her voice, experiences, and talents to uplift others, especially women navigating their challenges.
"If something happens to me and I wake up in heaven, instead of in a recovery room, then - at the end of the day - even though it might be hard for the people around me, I know that good will come from that," she said, showcasing her fearless approach to her surgery and the uncertainties that lie ahead. This statement not only highlights her personal strength but also her unwavering belief in the power of positive outcomes, even in the face of adversity.
As Rachel McCord's surgery date approaches, her story has become a source of inspiration and a reminder of the fragility of life. Her experiences illuminate the importance of steadfastness in the face of adversity, the power of family support, and the profound impact of faith. Rachel McCord's journey, marked by vulnerability, courage, and love, underscores the complexities of living with a chronic condition and the resilience required to overcome it. With her surgery imminent, the thoughts and prayers of many are with Rachel and her family, hoping for a successful outcome and a swift recovery.
