
TAD (thoracic aortic disease) or TAAD (Thoracic Aortic Anuerysm and Dissection) do
not have a familiar sound to us. Perhaps it is because the aorta has not
received very much attention. Centuries of writing about the origin of love have given the heart an elevated place in society, although science and medicine may consider it simply a pump in the chest. But where is the attention, who is the voice, for an extremely vital part of us that is also in our chest - the aorta? The aorta is much more than a simple tube leaving the heart. It's health and function are so vital to the body, it can appropriately be called the river of life. Like the great rivers of the earth, it's course through the human body, and the vessels that branch from it, are essential to life. This September, the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation again is bringing attention to this great artery, in particular the "thoracic" aorta. In many ways it remains a frontier that challenges individuals, families, and their doctors. We know that TAAD affects a large number of people - perhaps some day, when it is no longer confused with heart disease, we will know how many there truly are. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation is holding its Fourth Annual Conference through the web this year in September, and we hope it will enable many people to learn about this great river of life. We will be talking about the aorta, what aneurysm and dissection mean, other arteries in the body that may have "special tissue" also, and heart valves. All of these topics are related to this great river that begins in our chest. If you wish to join the September sessions, this Conference page gives information about the topics and registration. Contact Us Bicuspid Aortic Foundation 30100 Town Center Drive, Suite O-299 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 Telephone Toll free in the US (888) 310-HOPE (4673) or (949) 495-0027 Fax: (949) 606-0413 Email: contactus@bicuspidfoundation.com Copyright © 2004 - 2009, Bicuspid Aortic Foundation. All Rights Reserved. The information on the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation website is provided for general informational purposes only. This information is not professional, legal, or medical advice. Any medications, products, or treatment mentioned are presented as information only and do not constitute any recommendation, approval, or endorsement. Any information is general in nature and is not a substitute for medical care. You should contact a physician or other qualified medical professional for advice about all health-related conditions. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation, including its officers, directors, volunteers and any others acting on its behalf, individually and collectively, make no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the contents of this website, including its accuracy, completeness, or reliability. Any links or references to other websites provided on the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation website are made available as a convenience only. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation has not reviewed all of the websites linked to this website and is not responsible for the content of these sites or your use of them. |
Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease |
All aortic aneurysm and dissection in the chest |
For families and medical professionals, by families and medical professionals |

Creating a climate of hope, an atmosphere of caring, and a source of information for
all who are touched by thoracic aortic disease and the medical professionals
who care for them. |
Creating a climate of hope |
BICUSPID AORTIC FOUNDATION |
is Awareness Month! |
Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection (TAAD) Awareness Month September 2009 |

Photo Credit: US Fish & Wildlife Services |
2009 Theme: The River of Life |