Closure decision

I am a 61 year young male with diagnosis of a PFO in March 2010. I have consulted with a well-known doctor here at Duke and wish to have this done so that I can get back to running. I was doing 2-5 miles, 5 days/week but now am afraid to continue at that pace due to a clot-related stroke in the fall of 2009.
For those of you who have had the closure, I request your advice and the thought processes you employed to make the decision to close.
After reading some posts here, I understand there are varied experiences during recovery. Advice in that realm would also be appreciated.
I have a friend whose 18-year old son experienced a temporary loss of his left side after a PFO-related stroke during a soccer game. I will in-turn pass on any of the advice received here, to him in hopes that he will consider a closure, as well.
Thank you, all in advance and Good Luck with your recovery for the future.
RW