Dan's Posts

Hard to believe it was a year ago today I have my Aortic Valve replaced. I can hear it clicking away. So far so good. I hope the warranty is good past 1 year. No issues with Warfarin and my INR stays in the target range. Biggest problem is weight gain. I've started hitting the gym again and working out has felt great. It was great to be able to play golf this summer. I check to see how things are going with others who had surgery around the same time when I get a chance. To those waiting, prayers and patience. I remember the waiting and just wanting to get the surgery over with. Once I had surgery, I can believe how quickly I started to notice that I was feeling a lot better. To those who are recoverying, I hope all is going well and only minor bumps in the road. I had a couple and it is frustrating when they pop up. I know I just wanted to be over it all and move on. Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Hi, Today marks 9 months since I have my Aortic valve replaced. Things are clicking along, as I hear the mechanical valve doing its thing. Only thing has been some minor ups and downs have been my INR numbers. For the most part, it really isn't an issue. I saw my cardiologist in early July and was told he would see me in 2 years, unless I felt like something wasn't right or my internal med doctor wants me checked out. He also told me to walk when playing golf, don't ride the cart and walk with the lawn mower, don't cut grass with my rider. It has been great being on the golf course again. I went 18 months due to various medical issues between rounds. Played golf with my son while he was home. He's now deployed in Afghanistan until May next year. Work has been good. A bit nerve racking as a big contract was awarded to another firm and it could result in a number of jobs lost. We had 2 people from our group reassigned to another group. Wait and see what else may happen. I'm enjoying a weeks vacation. For the first time in about 2 years, vacation time isn't being used for medical reasons. Working on staining the decks, getting some golf in, working on my RC helicopters and putting a few miles on my Harley. My hats off to the staff at St. Mary's Hospital, Dean Clinic cardiology and the rehab team I worked with to get back to where I am. Good luck to those waiting for surgery. A smooth and uneventful recovery for those out of surgery. I know it isn't always the case, but may any bumps in the path be small. Dan