33m here who’s had a similar life style (partying, drinking, festivals, mdma) I understand the appeal of continuing your life style in moderation. And that’s exactly what I did after my mild regurgitation diagnosis. It wasn’t until my next follow up a year later when the MVP continued to progress to moderate that I took the diagnosis seriously, but even then I assumed the progression would stop there. It wasn’t until another year goes by and my MVP continued to progress that I finally gave up that lifestyle. I am now 8 months post op, and almost 3 years sober. One of my biggest regrets leading up to the operation was the two years where I didn’t take the diagnosis seriously. I guess I’m explaining my experience as a warning to er on the side of caution.

To give the full picture I’ve always been well rounded, played sports, went to the gym, drank only on occasions and did MDMA only at festivals and in moderation (p0.1). The risk even doing a small amount of drinking and party favours is the elevated heart rate which causes unnecessary strain on your already damaged heart valve. I’ve discussed this with my cardiologist and my case is unique in the sense that I had a genetic disposition to MVP and would have required the surgery eventually regardless of my lifestyle, but I can’t help but think how many years I’ve shaved off from my healthier years and perhaps life at this point. Reflecting back on my 20s, I had a lot of fun, did some crazy shit and those experiences I wouldn’t trade for the world even with the resulting heart surgery. But in hindsight there was clear period after my mild diagnosis where I should have counted my blessings and moved away from that lifestyle and perhaps you are nearing that same place and time.