Daneen Douglas
Aortic Stenosis
April 22, 2024
Scott Thomasson
Mitral Regurgitation
April 23, 2024
Pam Dahl
Aortic Stenosis
April 23, 2024
Dr. Alfredo Trento is a heart valve expert having performed over 4,000 heart valve repair and replacement operations during his career.
http://www.amazon.com/Children-Through-Parents-Serious-Illness/dp/B0044KN0TK
Introduce that you're not well early (can't do X because..) and then explain surgery closer to the date. I drew the heart correctly (so not to associate the heart symbol with my op) and then explained my valve was like a floppy banana skin and the doctor was going to fix it, mummy was going to take a time to get better but then I'll be able to go to the park etc. I also drew a red line on me to show the scar which shocked me more than them. They will be scared but if you seem calm and confident, then they will be guided by your reactions.
Do explain who is going to look after them during this time and prepare them for any changes to routine - I used this as a positive as my parents visited for 3wks so my op paled into insignificance!
They have been both very caring and a wonderful tonic during my recovery. My aim has been to give them a positive experience as I unfortunately don't know if they have EDS and will potentially face the same surgery.