As an avid long-distance gravel and mountain bike cyclist, Robert Seitz began noticing a consistently elevated heart rate compared to fellow riders, an observation that ultimately led to a life-changing diagnosis. In 2018, he consulted cardiologist Dr. Markus Porkert, who identified a bicuspid aortic valve and an associated aortic aneurysm, both of which would eventually require open-heart surgery. What follows is Robert's firsthand account of his journey from diagnosis to recovery — and back on the bike.
As a long-distance gravel and mountain bike cyclist, I began to notice that my heart rate consistently ran higher than my riding companions’. Concerned, I decided in 2018 to consult a cardiologist, Dr. Markus Porkert. After an office visit, CT scan and ultrasound, he diagnosed me with a bicuspid aortic valve and an associated aortic aneurysm — both of which would eventually require open-heart surgery.
Dr. Porkert explained:
“A bicuspid aortic valve, having two leaflets instead of the normal three, is one of the most common heart defects people can be born with. It usually doesn’t present itself until later in life (around 40–50 years), as the valve functions normally but deteriorates faster than normal. It can be associated with aneurysms of the thoracic aorta. It usually presents with a murmur heard on an exam. We closely monitor these once discovered as they can lead to problems with the heart and aorta before they cause symptoms, and we want to intervene at the right time to avoid problems later on. Usually, symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue or mild chest discomfort with exertion.”
Looking back, the diagnosis made sense. Some of the symptoms I had attributed to allergies, like shortness of breath, were side effects of the bicuspid valve. I also had a lower resting oxygen saturation and occasional leg cramping, both tied to the condition. One of my first questions to Dr. Porkert was, “Will this be the end of my hobby?” He reassured me that it wouldn’t be.
He began monitoring the aneurysm closely, and for the next five years, I underwent a CT scan or ultrasound every six months. By September of 2024, the latest scans showed the aneurysm had enlarged to the point where surgery was necessary. Dr. Porkert referred me to his first choice for a surgeon, Dr. Daniel Winston.
From our first appointment, my wife and I knew we were in the right place. Dr. Winston’s demeanor was calm, confident and reassuring. Naturally, I asked again, “How will this impact my cycling?” He told me I’d be back on a stationary bike within weeks and riding outside shortly after.
Throughout the entire process — from pre-surgery prep to hospitalization and post-op care — Dr. Winston and his team were extraordinary. Logan Crumley, Lauren Brooks and the ICU nursing staff were attentive, compassionate and consistently went above and beyond. Dr. Winston’s bedside manner was uplifting and genuine. He took time to answer every question and ensured my family and I were informed and comfortable at every step. Logan was constantly present during recovery, and Lauren was invaluable with scheduling and support. Even when we had to call after hours one evening post-op, the on-call physician responded within minutes and addressed all our concerns. The whole team felt like family.
Just as Dr. Winston promised, about five weeks after surgery I was back on a stationary bike several times a week. By early December — seven weeks post-op — I was back on the gravel with friends, logging a 23-mile ride on my first outing. While the rides were shorter and less intense than I was used to, I was back in my element.
Now, I no longer experience the shortness of breath that used to limit me, whether on a ride, walking or climbing stairs. The leg cramps have also disappeared. I'm still recovering and pacing myself, but on March 1 — just 4 1/2 months after my valve replacement, aneurysm repair and aortic root graft — I completed a 62-mile gravel charity ride in South Georgia with a buddy. My fitness still has room to grow, but I'm feeling strong and optimistic.
Thanks to my surgical team's incredible talent and dedication, the ongoing prayers of friends and family, and a deep love for the ride, I’m back doing what I love. And I’m looking forward to many more miles of dirt roads ahead.
Learn more about Northside Hospital Heart Institute.
*The health story shared here is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Patients should consult with their own physician before making medical decisions.
