Lisa’s Mitral Valve Repair, Blood Transfusions and… Christmas Shopping

Thanks for all of the comments. I have a TEE Jan 9 and then to the cardiac surgeon to discuss the repair/replacement of my heart valves which are leaking. Knowing what is ahead is helpful to me, and I appreciate all comments. I’ll add mine after the event.

Dear Barbara, although I had surgery for a congenital heart defect, I hope that I can share some notes on what I went through. My surgery was just nine days ago, and I believe that it is very important to meet with the physical therapist. Please do the breathing exercises with them and if you have any questions regarding getting into/out of bed or walking, please do not hesitate to ask them.

I had quite a difficult time breathing in the hospital and once I dedicated myself to the spirometry breathing exercise, I felt better.
I believe that if I can get through the surgery and begin healing enough to send you this note, then you most definitely will make it through this challlenging experience. Its challenging but not impossible to heal from heart surgery. I wish you and your family the best.
Happy Holiday.

Hi Lisa, and thanks for the info and pic. Sorry for you and fam/issues with blood loss, no doubt causing additional fears for all. God Bless, and thanks for families and grand friends! I’m pleased the remainder went well for you, thus far. I believe diet and health are so conditionally helpful in their own right as– in a small amount of life that we CAN control! Best wishes for you and your fam.
I have very little fam, but a pretty strong friend base, most gratefully, and,
am waiting for hear from Cleveland Clinic Financial Dept tomorrow.
Thanks for your bravery and update for those of us in the up- and coming- and-
I’ve been in various forms of health care for 27 yrs.- and it’s always a learning
experience no matter what side of the fence your on.– Makes us all more helpful- Ideally,— or there’s something wrong! Best Wishes Lisa and Co…!

So glad to have discovered this site. have been following WomenHeart and it has been helpful, but most there have had heart attacks, not valve problems–and I hope the issues here are different. I like the more positive attitude I see. I am scheduled for robotic mitral valve surgery on Jan 8th after a long process of diagnosis in the summer and fall. My case is unusual in that I am 71 and in spite of good medical case, the problem was either not noted or did not exist umtil resently. I have had separate cardio-cath and TEE and was told tht I had remarkably clear arteries for my age. I have always been careful about my diet–a little lax about exercise–yoga and some walking, but plan to do cardio rehab as soon as I can. Will see the surgeron for pre-op stuff tomorrow. Any ideas about what questions should be high on my list? Tnamks for your help Marilyn