My Wired Sternum Keeps It Together… Seriously!
December 29th, 2007“OOOOHHHHHH MYYYYYYY GAWWWWD!!!”
That was my first reaction when I learned that I would need open heart surgery.
“YOU ARE KIDDING ME, RIGHT?!!!”
That was my second reaction when I learned my sternum would be broken, my heart would be stopped, my aortic and pulmonary valves would be replaced, and then my chest would be stitched back together with sternal wires.
Now… Here comes the good part of the story. 
It is two years after my double valve replacement (aka the Ross Procedure)…
And…
During the past week, I had the great, and somewhat miserable, pleasure of moving into a new house with my wife Robyn.
I HAVE TO TELL YOU…
MY HEALED CHESTPLATE FELT NO PAIN OR DISCOMFORT AS I LIFTED 5,000 BOXES UP 25,000 STAIRS – IN ADDITION TO 3 DRESSERS, 4 BEDS, 2 REFRIGERATORS AND 5 SOFAS.
(Okay. I’m exaggerating some. That’s what men do when the machismo comes out. And, so you know, there was some discomfort in the days after our move.)
However, the point I’m trying to make is critical for all patients and their caregivers.
Your broken sternum can heal. Your heart can heal.
Open heart surgery is not a curse!
Open heart surgery is a medical blessing!
Happy 2008!!!
Keep on tickin!
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| About The Author: Adam Pick is a double, heart valve surgery patient and author of The Patient's Guide To Heart Valve Surgery. This unique book integrates clinical research with the personal experiences of 135 former patients to help future patients and their caregivers better understand the problems, the opportunities and the realities of heart valve surgery. To learn more about Adam and his heart valve surgery book, click here. |
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