Mike's Guestbook

Mike... Best of luck tomorrow... Hoping you'll have a smooth surgery and an uneventful and full recovery. Blessings and prayers sent. Keep us posted. 🙏🏻💞

Hi Mike, I just saw that you're heading in for surgery with Dr. Barnhart next. Great job finding him. He's a great guy and an excellent surgeon. Strangely enough, I coincidentally sat next to Dr. Barnhart on a airplane flight. Small world. You're going to do great! For those not familiar with Dr. Barnhart in Seattle, here's some more info about him - http://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/surgeons/dr-Glenn-Barnhart-Seattle-Washington.php.

Hey Mike, I was 42 when I got my mechanical aortic valve. Looking back through my journal, the worst part truly was the waiting. I tried to keep as busy as possible, and still... the few moments I was alone were disastrous. I had mashed potatoes for brains and felt I had to write down EVERYTHING. You won't be able to pick up your kids for a couple of months, but you'll sure be able to snuggle with them. Don't get me wrong, recovery from surgery ain't easy. But it's easier than the waiting, in my opinion. Between now & your surgery, you'll find a source of calm that will just pervade everything you do. Things will fall in to place, and you'll be prepared. I thought the hardest part would be standing and sitting without using my arms. It's not difficult - go ahead and try it now! What other questions do you have? -Meredith

Hi Mike, Like you, I'm in my 40's with three children. I had open heart surgery on February 10th, 2016 for the same reasons you are. Since I had six weeks to wait for the surgery date, I scared myself into panic attacks for the first time in my life. Please don't overthink this - it is severe, but the risk is so low and the surgeons are brilliant! You are young, healthy, vibrant, you will bounce out of it in no time - but don't push it. (Personally, I don't mind people bringing over dinner!) Best of luck and prayers for you. Everything will find a way to work out although you and others have to make adjustments for a time being. Erin