Frieda's Posts

Well its 11/5/11, and I am finally in a "step- down" unit! It is my own private room, with the Helicopter Landing Pad right out the window.... lots of activity! Dropping transplants off all day and night. It is amazing how people come from all over the world to the Cleveland Clinic! I know I am in very good hands here. The staff is outstanding, and you all know I have seen a few hospitals. This is an easy ride from home, and I would highly recommend it to all of you should you or anyone you know ever need this type of a place….God forbid. I am feeling pretty good, but still very weak. I am going to have to do some heavy rehab to get me back to where I was before the first operation. But with traveling to Florida in 4 to 6 weeks, it's all the encouragement I need. I can't wait to be walking the beaches again!!! Renee detailed all the procedures I had done, so I won't reiterate them. My Dr. Petterssen was just in and expressed some very encouraging words! I have already converted to sinus rhythm!! Happy days!!! But, as you can see, I am having a little trouble with spelling and word choices!!! lol! Have to get all these drugs out of my system. It will come back in time. So, all and all, I am feeling a little weak now, but positive! I have a lot of hard work to do in the next year... and then some, but I will do it. Doc wants me in physical therapy/rehabilitation for the next 6 weeks, daily. I am going to ask Renee to pick me up a beginner Salsa Dancing DVD. I will start with that here in my room! The three of us will have fun! It will be a challenge to Rich… but his wonderful humor will keep us all laughing! I have experienced many changes within a short period of time as of late. See you all soon! Thank you so much for all your thoughts, and prayers. I love you all so much. And the Beat goes on and on!!! Frieda

Hello, Just wanted to send out another update about my mom. It honestly has been a tough couple of days for her. My mom has comorbidities; one being pulmonary hypertension. The nurse explained that due to the fact that it was an issue prior to surgery, it is almost expected that it would be an obstacle after. The nurse explained that her pulmonary arterial pressure is remaining high. She is not breathing deep enough so CO2 is building up. They are giving her medication to aide in stabilizing her arterial pressure, as well as, making her wear a breathing mask. This is common for patients with the same condition. She will get through it, but she is very frustrated and uncomfortable. I can see it and feel it. We are all encouraging her to take herself elsewhere. When I see her focusing on her breathing and meditation, her number goes down. When she fusses and begins to become agitated, her number goes back up. Please send out soothing thoughts to her. I have been telling her about all the support she is getting and it makes her feel good. Love, Renee

Saw mom a bit ago. Her color looks great and her hair is shiny! She was happy to hear that! She is very groggy and it pain, but otherwise she said she is ok. They took her breathing tube out this morning, and the nurse said she may try to get her to sit in a chair today. Hopefully she will be able to go into the "step-down" unit tomorrow. It will be a lot more comfortable for her. Thankfully, the hard and scary part is over. Today is the second hardest for her. Hopefully, it will just get easier as the days go on. Thank you all again for your thoughts, prayers and love! Keep 'em coming! Xoxo Renee