Trust Yourself: Kayla’s Journey Through Tricuspid Valve Disease

Because sometimes, healing begins when you start believing yourself.

Some stories remind us just how much strength it takes to keep showing up when answers don’t come easily.Kayla’s journey with tricuspid valve disease began long before her diagnosis had a name — and her perseverance through years of uncertainty is a powerful reminder that advocacy often starts from the heart.

A devoted wife, mother, and HeartBridge Collective member, Kayla has faced more than a decade of challenges with courage and grace. In her own words, she shares what it’s really like to live with tricuspid regurgitation, to fight for answers, and to finally take that life-changing step toward healing.

Here’s Kayla’s story, in her own words 👇

My name is Kayla. I am a wife, a mother, and someone who has lived with severe tricuspid regurgitation for over 13 years. On September 11, 2025, I underwent surgery to repair my valve — a life-changing step after years of challenges and perseverance

The part of my heart journey that stands out the most is how hard it was to get help. Being diagnosed at such a young age was confusing and scary, especially because doctors couldn’t determine exactly what caused it. My symptoms didn’t look like the typical ones, which made it difficult for both me and the medical professionals to figure out what was really going on and how to treat it. It was a long process of trial and error, but it taught me a lot about patience, self-advocacy, and trusting the journey.

What helped me through my hardest moments was connection. Being part of groups like Heart Valve Voice US, HeartBridge Collective, and other online communities gave me a sense of belonging. They reminded me that I wasn’t alone. These spaces allowed me to ask questions, share my frustrations, and connect with others who were also navigating similar challenges and searching for answers

I want others who are going through the same thing to understand that your journey is your own—everyone’s symptoms and experiences are not always textbook. If something feels off, trust yourself and speak up. You know your body better than anyone else, and it’s important to advocate for yourself, even when doctors don’t seem to listen. Don’t be afraid to push for answers and the care you deserve. 

Kayla Wathal

Tricuspid Valve Patient and HeartBridge Collective member

Stories like Kayla’s remind us why it’s so important to listen to ourselves — and to each other.Her courage and honesty shine a light on what so many patients quietly face: the long road to being heard, believed, and helped.

At HeartBridge Collective, we believe no one should walk that road alone.

💜 Join us as we bridge hearts, minds, and innovation — one lived experience at a time.

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