Hi everyone,

Earlier this year, Michelle Browning downloaded my book, The Patient’s Guide To Heart Valve Surgery, to help her and her husband better manage the heart valve surgery process. Since then, Taylor, Michelle and I have kept in touch. It has been amazing listening to Taylor as he proceeded through the operation. Actually, it’s been quite inspirational. Every few weeks, Taylor would send out email updates documenting his progress and his humor.

Well, the other day I received the note below. With his permission, I am publishing it here in this blog for you to read and reflect upon his amazing attitude and perspective specific to heart valve surgery.

Keep on Tickin! Adam

HERE IS THE FINAL EMAIL REPORT FROM TAYLOR 12 WEEKS AFTER HEART VALVE SURGERY:

Wow! What a journey! Although it feels like both yesterday and forever ago, it actually was twelve weeks ago that I was trying to fall asleep wondering what my “pre-op” appointments the next day would be like. In the back of my mind, I think I was also wondering when this would all be over! Now I know - It’s tomorrow and I’m going back to work!

After getting through the initial shock and a little bit of fear, I came to realize that this was an amazing and awesome experience. There’s nothing like a small dose of mortality to remind you to never take for granted an amazing wife, an amazing family and amazing groups of friends! Thanks to you all! And never underestimate the power of positive thinking and a world-class medical team. They help too!

Now that I’m feeling pretty darn close to my old self (with a better aortic valve and ascending aorta of course) I’m just looking forward to getting back to normal. But I plan on renewing my focus on two things I was reminded of during this experience: Enjoy every single day and don’t sweat the small stuff!

Taylor

[1] To learn more about Adam’s heart valve surgery book, click here.

Posted in [2] The Recovery