Susan Smith posted a note for Lynn that says:
Lynn, each post you do brings new insight in, not only you, but myself. Thanks for sharing with us your experiences. Please have a very Merry Christmas and and Happy healthy New Year. God bless you and your family.
On December 19, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says:
Ah, Lynn, you are graduating! Congratulations!
I am so glad that you are at this point. Well done. It has been my pleasure getting to know you and going thru this together. I'll miss you but I am delighted you are at this point and know you will do extremely well.
Now as they say "Go live your life!".
FYI, I will continue posting thru my rehab period to finish the story.
The best to you and your family and a very special holiday season!
On December 18, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Lynn that says:
I think if my bovine valve fails, and I need a replacement, I may go with a pug valve.
Lynn Ennis Then plan on sleeping all day, snoring , eating whenever possible and farting a lot!
Lynn Ennis Then plan on sleeping all day, snoring , eating whenever possible and farting a lot!
I eat almonds all day...even carry them around in my pocket...I think I have a squirrel valve :)
On December 18, 2013...
Philippa Morrison posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hi again Lynn,
So pleased to read that you are coming along so well.I do think those tears had to come...the way I describe it to my patients is...we are a bit like pressure cookers...we have feelings and emotions which well up inside us..they simmer away quite well for the most part while we deal with life's troubles and traumas,trials and tribulations.BUT, every now and again,we must let that valve go at the top of the cooker and let off steam....once the steam is released we can simmer away nicely again.
SO pleased you sound as if you are simmering away nicely!
I wish I were!! LOL
Anyway wishing you all the very,very best for a fabulous and very Happy Christmas.Much love to you and Steve,Erin,Matt and Chloe and all the best for 2014.
4 mile walks sound pretty good for anyone .......never mind someone who has just been through heart surgery so GO LYNN!
Take good care
Philippa xxoo
Lynn Ennis Thanks Philippa! It has been an ordeal for sure but it seems to be breaking up now into very manageab ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thanks Philippa! It has been an ordeal for sure but it seems to be breaking up now into very manageable pieces! I knew it would be difficult but i did not anticipate so much physical,pain...! Anyway, the worse is over now:) thank you for your kind words and support. I know this year has been full of changes and challenges for you too ...well,done you! So strong and determined! Lots of love to the wide spread clan this holiday season !
On December 17, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Lynn that says:
Lynn,
That's so nice that you could deliver cards and gifts to everyone on the hospital floor. I wish I could have done that. Since I live 3 1/2 hours away from Mayo I could not go back and see everyone. I did send thank you notes individually to as many people that I could remember.
Glad to hear you are doing so well. Things just keep getting better and better for you!
Lynn Ennis I felt like I have come full circle going back to my floor Carol...how different it all looked to me ... Read more
Lynn Ennis I felt like I have come full circle going back to my floor Carol...how different it all looked to me this time! It has put an "end" stamp on this part of the experience..I really feel like I am looking forward now. Glad you are also,doing well:) Happy Holidays!
On December 17, 2013...
Barb Brooks posted a note for Lynn that says:
My mistake!!! I DID have an Echo. It's that small machine that takes less than 3 minutes to administer. I was thinking of the stress echo with the gel. Sorry!
I found the Scar Away strips. I could only find them in a two month supply. Will it take that long? I also found it in a serum. What are your thoughts?
I'm feeling great!
Lynn Ennis I think,you can buy them at Walgreens...I am using them 12 hours a day...I hope they help....they act ... Read more
Lynn Ennis I think,you can buy them at Walgreens...I am using them 12 hours a day...I hope they help....they actually feel good to wear. Maybe the serum is for later? Maybe they won't make any difference at all!
On December 17, 2013...
Barb Brooks posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hi Lynn! I never had a post-op Echo. I'm starting to feel like I was left out!
I'm still sleeping in the recliner. Not because I have to, but because I love it! I find that I sleep much better with my back supported, rather than sleeping on my side in bed. Eventually my husband will kick me out of the recliner.. LOL
What are you using for your scar? I read your suggestion somewhere, didn't write it down, and now I can't find it.
Glad you're doing well!!
Lynn Ennis What?! No Post Op Echo???? I am sure one is in your near future...
Lynn Ennis What?! No Post Op Echo???? I am sure one is in your near future...
Watch out, your husband will get rid of the recliner one day when you are out!!!!
I am using a medical grade silicone product called Scar Away which I got online. It's silicone on a flesh colored fabric band aid. One 7 inch strip is good for 7 days...you can wash it everyday. From what I read, silicone flattens the scar...we'll see, mine is pretty fresh still...it's great on the top but raised towards the bottom. How are you feeling now?
On December 17, 2013...
Cheryl Shute Walter posted a note for Lynn that says:
So very glad to hear about your post-op echo. Wishing you continued good health!
Gabi x posted a note for Lynn that says:
So happy for you Lynn! Congratulations to you and your loving team. You have given me a reality check with the 12 month marker! I don't seem to get it though to myself that it is only 5 month since this mammoth surgery took place. I overdo things then suffer for next few days. I will just step back and go with da flo!
Lynn Ennis Yup, I believe it is a 12 month gig. So, you are almost 1/2 way there! Our hearts are seriously re-bo ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Yup, I believe it is a 12 month gig. So, you are almost 1/2 way there! Our hearts are seriously re-booting so it takes time. These days, when I get tired, I get EXHAUSTED!!! Like I cannot take another step tired. I don't sleep during the day but need to rest every 3-4 hours if I am up and about. ..just put my feet up for 1/2 hour does the trick. I hope you are feeling well Gabi xox
On December 17, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says:
Lynn
Wonderful result! Take it, you have earned it. So glad the echo went well. I also had an echo yesterday. Echos for mitral valve repairs have a few moving parts I think. I will write a few posts about it. A quick one today and a more detailed one on the weekend once I can analyze the data from the July, Nov. and Dec. echos.
Understand a bit how you feel about a new valve. I have a metal, plastic and cloth ring, Gore Tex cords and lots of stitching. I am hoping everything just holds together. Hang in there and good news on echo!
Lynn Ennis Thanks Jim! I was happy to hear the news. I am interested to hear about yours. I am sure are parts wi ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thanks Jim! I was happy to hear the news. I am interested to hear about yours. I am sure are parts will not get recalled!
On December 17, 2013...
Judy Hatch posted a note for Lynn that says:
Best wishes, Lynn. I have thoroughly enjoyed your comments and it gives me hope that when my time comes I'll be better prepared.
Marcia posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hi Lynn, I enjoyed reading your story and it brings hope to me. I'm to have my aortic valve and one arety replaced Jan 3 2014 at Kaiser in SanFrancisco. As with you i was shocked to find out that i needed this done i too have had a heart mummer and no one ever said any thing was wrong. I was planning to have knee surgery and was starting all the preop things and this came up.I have tryed to take this as a blessing but I'm scared to death. I know that these are done each and everyday and the out comes are wonderful but at the same time it's me going throught it. I have found a support group and I hope that will help me along with my family and friends. I hope we can keep in touch.
Lynn Ennis I know how you feel Marcia. I cannot praise Kaiser SF enough…from start to finish, they were great! I ... Read more
Lynn Ennis I know how you feel Marcia. I cannot praise Kaiser SF enough…from start to finish, they were great! Its not easy to do but you can and will do it and be ok.Its like a factory over there…they do SO many, they are totally prepared, efficient, they get you in and out with a minimum of fuss. Plus the nurses are the BEST! If you want to have a private chat, email me at dee_family@hotmail.com and I can be more specific.
On December 17, 2013...
Nancy Scott posted a note for Lynn that says:
I just left my 10 month checkup and still have to have an echo, but all is well. My dr wishes I would walk 4 miles! You should feel so good about yourself! Keep up the good work and merry Christmas!
Lynn Ennis Well, my 4 miles is a straight, quiet, residential road, parallel to awesome mountains so its easy. P ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Well, my 4 miles is a straight, quiet, residential road, parallel to awesome mountains so its easy. Plus its pretty flat which helps a lot! I took on walking as my new job…nothing interferes with it…it is the best part of my day :)
merry christmas to you too!
On December 16, 2013...
Jim E. posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hi, Ty :)
We are so relieved that your health is returning. Please give our love to all the Dees. Your habit of walking has dramatically affected your recovery. It is amazing how the human body can mend itself. Be well, sis.
Love and Cheers,
Jimmy and Bob :)
Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says:
Lynn
I will start rehab in January. I had my post op echo today and await the results. On Wednesday I have a stress test and meet the nutritionist. I met the nurse last week. Next week I meet the therapist. It is a very formal process. I will let you know about rehab. I would say I am at 60% also. No real breakthroughs yet.
Hi to pug!
On December 16, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hey Lynnster
I also am slowly getting better. This is taking much longer than I anticipated. I was willing to give it two weeks for total healing but my body refuses to cooperate! What the heck is that all about!??
Heal fast and heal well, partner!
Lynn Ennis Dear Jim,
This has been without question the most difficult experience of my life and I am no wimp. R ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Dear Jim,
This has been without question the most difficult experience of my life and I am no wimp. Recovery, smooth as it has been, has also been hard....today is the first day I don't feel terrible...it's like a 20 ton stone has been lifted off me. I am still at about 60% of normal so....but just a change in my status quo is so welcome. It's hard to go slow, but we are actually getting better. I am sorry to miss cardiac rehab...have you started yet?
On December 16, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says:
Jeez, Lynn, I'm jealous! You are doing so well. (I feel like a piker!) I am delighted that you've turned the corner. It makes sense that all your energy was focused on healing. I am not sure we fully appreciate what our bodies require to heal.
Keep it up. You are making me proud, partner!
Lynn Ennis It's about time I started to feel a bit better! Honestly, it's been a long, chronic 6 weeks- amazing ... Read more
Lynn Ennis It's about time I started to feel a bit better! Honestly, it's been a long, chronic 6 weeks- amazing to feel like myself again!
On December 16, 2013...
Joseph Kusiak posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hello Lynn,
So very well stated and so true. And if you can believe it keeps getting better. I am so glad you are feeling better.
Susan Smith posted a note for Lynn that says:
Lynn, I feel like I have walked every step with you. You have a great way of describing what is going on with you and how you are feeling. I mean really feeling. This chapter in your journal is terrific. Yes your life forces in full bloom and going strong. You have done it! Congratulations and keep it up. Blessing to you and yours along with a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful healthy New Year.
Lynn Ennis Thanks Susan, it has been quite an experience!
On December 13, 2013...
Maureen Hoganson posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hi Lynn--Hope you are doing well! Wanted to ask you--what kind of valve did you get? I am just two weeks post op--and have a Trifecta (bovine) valve. At age 46--I just didn't want to have to take Coumadin for the rest of my life! Doing well so far--and wish it was warmer outside so that I could walk more! My dog looks at me kind of funny when I walk circles in the house! Best to you and your recovery!!!!
Lynn Ennis I got the bovine tissue one....Coumadin for life is not a good deal....lets hope they can replace val ... Read more
Lynn Ennis I got the bovine tissue one....Coumadin for life is not a good deal....lets hope they can replace valves by catheter in 10 years time!
On December 11, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says:
Happy fifth week after surgery Lynn Ennis!!! I hope tomorrow is a good day for you. This is an ultramarathon for all of us. I am confident you are heading for a podium finish! Hi to the family and my best to Ms. Pug! ( do not forget her Christmas gifts!)
Lynn Ennis I am finally better....not stepping on the pug in the dark anymore....her fault.....it has taken 6 we ... Read more
Lynn Ennis I am finally better....not stepping on the pug in the dark anymore....her fault.....it has taken 6 weeks for me to be able to say I feel better. I hope you do,too partner!
On December 7, 2013...
Heather St Pierre posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hi there LYNN
I am glad to.hear you are doing so well. I will be following your story with interest as I too am a runner .
I am sure it has felt like an eternity since you ran last but you sound.like you are becoming one step closer every day!
TAKE CARE
Heather st. Pierrr
On December 6, 2013...
Kevin Woodard posted a note for Lynn that says:
Lynn,
Thanks for sharing your experience with us. The good and the not so good. Post like this help people like me that are getting close to going in and want to know how life will be after surgery. I will make sure to remember your advice! Glad to hear you are feeling better and able to get 4 miles in. Good for you!
Lynn Ennis It's a serious mission but I can attest that you DO come out the other side.I wish none of us had to ... Read more
Lynn Ennis It's a serious mission but I can attest that you DO come out the other side.I wish none of us had to go through this but it saves outlives so.....
On December 5, 2013...
Cydne B. posted a note for Lynn that says:
I'm pleased to read that your surgery went well and that you are recovering.
Barb Brooks posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hey Lynn!! It gets better every week. I, too, find the recliner extremely comfortable, and still sleep in it. I did try the bed for a few nights, but woke up to the cat sleeping on my chest. Not good. Imagine your pug on your chest :-). Glad you're doing ok!
Lynn Ennis I am part pug at this point! We have the same life! But her on my chest? OMG, no way! I don't know wh ... Read more
Lynn Ennis I am part pug at this point! We have the same life! But her on my chest? OMG, no way! I don't know when I will abandon the recliner....it's like my home base...my husband can't wait to donate it to someone but i have other plans :) I may stay till my sternum heals. Go well Barb!
On December 5, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says:
Steve has a marathon on Sunday? Good for him! Please tell him good luck. Have him run a mile for me! Please let me know how he does. Will you have a chance to see any of it?
Lynn Ennis I may go up to Sacramento overnight with him . Depends on how cold it will be! I usually am there at ... Read more
Lynn Ennis I may go up to Sacramento overnight with him . Depends on how cold it will be! I usually am there at the finish line:) He has been running marathons since college.
On December 5, 2013...
Dan Sinclair posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hey Lynn,
Four miles, that is awesome, now I have something to shoot for. Post surgery I enjoyed my five mile walks along the St Petersburg waterfront and I am soooo looking forward to that again in the near future. I think Jim is right, it will not be long before you are running those trails.
Happy Trails to you, until we meet again, happy trails to you, keep smiling until then.....that's all I remember of that song.
Take Care!
Lynn Ennis Walking is easy...I just go on and on..mind you it's pretty flat so that makes it easier. I feel very ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Walking is easy...I just go on and on..mind you it's pretty flat so that makes it easier. I feel very wiped out later...almost like flu...achy all over ....but I know it's making me stronger. Happy trails to you too!
On December 5, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says:
Lynnster
Wonderful post! A lot of progress in only 4 weeks. I know this is SLOW, SLOW, SLOW but I think you are really doing well. At least we are heading in the right direction. Keep up the good work. (hey, I bet we will actually lace them up and run at some point. What do you think?)
Lynn Ennis Thanks Jim! I have to walk before I can run I guess!
I am OK with slow...I want to get this right...w ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thanks Jim! I have to walk before I can run I guess!
I am OK with slow...I want to get this right...we have come a long way in only 4 weeks, considering. It's a marathon! Steve is about to run the California International Marathon this Sunday , fresh off a plane from South Africa.
On December 5, 2013...
Gabi x posted a note for Lynn that says:
Dear Lynn, how you have improved in just 4 weeks! You are a dynamo pocket rocket dear girl. Blessings to you and Steve.
Lynn Ennis Thank you Gabi! I am lucky to have dodged some common post op complications. The walking is very good ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you Gabi! I am lucky to have dodged some common post op complications. The walking is very good. I hope you are managing the AF as best you can...the heart is a mystery...
Steve is in Johannesburg this week...he is South African...I am glad he is there the day Mandiba passed away. A truly great man.
On December 5, 2013...
Nancy Scott posted a note for Lynn that says:
Wonderful four-week summary! Walking 4 miles....amazing. It shows what good shape you were in ti start with. Keep it up!
Lynn Ennis Yes, my best advice would be to get in as best condition as possible pre- op. I think it really helps ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Yes, my best advice would be to get in as best condition as possible pre- op. I think it really helps post op.
On December 5, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Lynn that says:
Week 4 post op. You're doing great.
:)
Lynn Ennis Thanks Ernie, I am relieved its been so unremarkable thus far!
On December 5, 2013...
Maureen Hoganson posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hi Lynn, Thank you so much for your journal updates--I had my AVR replacement on Wednesday, November 27 and was released from ICU on Thanksgiving Day (46-year old healthy female)! Really appreciate your honesty--and can relate to much about what you have written. The whole experience went well overall--and I was able to go home on Day 5. Today is day 8--and finding there are ups and downs each day. This surgery was definitely one of the most difficult times in my life, but thankful that I have gotten to this point--and know that the help of family, friends and this community has helped me immensely. Please keep us updated--and we'll certainly keep you in our thoughts and prayers! Love that you went 4 miles! How encouraging!!!!
Lynn Ennis You will do better than you expected!just do not over extend yourself the first 2 weeks or it puts yo ... Read more
Lynn Ennis You will do better than you expected!just do not over extend yourself the first 2 weeks or it puts you backwards. The further away from your OR date, the smaller the bumps in the road. Good luck and I will keep you in my prayers.
On December 5, 2013...
Laurie Baquol posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hi Lynn, so glad to hear about your 4 mile walk. What a beautiful thing to accomplish!
Your journal entry has been very informative. Nothing like hearing from those going or have gone through the same ordeal.
Hope to hear more positives as the weeks go on!
Lynn Ennis Yes, this website was the most important thing to me pre op. I learned so much..post op too.
On December 4, 2013...
Karin Baloian posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hello Lynn: Have enjoyed reading your last posts and am so glad your recovery is going well. Wanted to let you know that I will be away from email for about a week but how you are doing will still be in my prayers.
It is a bit early but happy one month anniversary.
Lynn Ennis Thank you Karin...it has been wonderful for me to read your messages...thank you so much!
On December 4, 2013...
Janine posted a note for Lynn that says:
Dearest Lynn it is lovely to follow your positive news and I am so happy for you it is over and you sound well and happy. Take care and have a wonderful holiday Christmas with your family. With love Janine xxx
Lynn Ennis Hey Janine,
Thank you ...I am so glad it's over....I am getting stronger every day.That really was th ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Hey Janine,
Thank you ...I am so glad it's over....I am getting stronger every day.That really was the hardest thing I have ever been through...but now I am set. Happy Christmas to your clan!
On December 2, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Lynn that says:
Many smiles.
Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hey Lynn
Happy am to you! I was quite encouraged reading your post. You are really active given the fact you are not a full month after surgery. When will you start cardiac rehab? I will send the paperwork in today and then they need to fit me into the next opening. You see Mt. Everest and I see the start of a 5K. We will get there!
Lynn Ennis I am not ready for rehab yet.,I will continue on my walks for another week or two. By the end of the ... Read more
Lynn Ennis I am not ready for rehab yet.,I will continue on my walks for another week or two. By the end of the day my chest is really sore...even the weight of my arms hurt! There is no rushing recovery. I cannot wait to drive again!
On November 29, 2013...
Darlene posted a note for Lynn that says:
Dear Lynn,
I am so happy for you and your family that you came through this serious surgery so beautifully! What a blessing! You have been guided, protected and healed by the Holy Spirit. Prayers and healing thoughts continue to be with you in your recovery.
Love & Blessings,
Darlene W.
Aubrey Elmo Jones posted a note for Lynn that says:
Happy Thanksgiving and I am thrilled you made it to the group holiday you wanted to get to. Keep it slow and steady and it really shows a difference about week four. Hope you recovery confuse to go well and keep us posted. Don't eat too much turkey today, lol.
Lynn Ennis Hi Aubrey! I just got home..4 hours of controlled chaos...I did fine...wash it quiet it I don't think ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Hi Aubrey! I just got home..4 hours of controlled chaos...I did fine...wash it quiet it I don't think anyone. Noticed! Spent an hour in a big chair..very comfy...great to see friends who were relieved to see me look so well. I am ready for that 4week improvement mark I have heard so much about!
On November 27, 2013...
Sally posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hi Lynn, so glad to hear you're feeling well again. It just gets better and better as time goes on! Best to your and your family for Thanksgiving.
On November 27, 2013...
Karin Baloian posted a note for Lynn that says:
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
I am celebrating with you.
Lynn Ennis Thank you Karin! Happy Thanksgiving to you too!
On November 27, 2013...
Nancy Scott posted a note for Lynn that says:
Keep taking it one day at a time, and things will come together I am at 10 months and sometimes I can't believe it! Happy Thanksgiving !
On November 26, 2013...
Jim E. posted a note for Lynn that says:
Hi, Ty :)
I'm so glad that you're recovery is moving along nicely. Your blog has really lessened my anxiety about your procedure. Thank you for being proactive in this serious matter. While more scary, it really did pay to tackle this head on, ASAP, as you have done.
Please continue to rest and recuperate.
Love and Cheers,
Jimmy and Bob :)
Lynn Ennis Thanks Jimmy! As I told you on the phone, it's been difficult but everyone is helping me and because ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thanks Jimmy! As I told you on the phone, it's been difficult but everyone is helping me and because of that imam getting better every day!
On November 25, 2013...
Philippa Morrison posted a note for Lynn that says:
Great to see you are doing so well Lynn...apart from that wee hiccough with the temperature! Thank God for Tylenol!
Wishing you all the best for a super doooooper Thanksgiving with All the family...How lovely...I am SHrek coloured! You are blessed in so many ways.
Continue to take care and lots of love from across the pond
Philippa xxoo
Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says:
Excellent, Lynn! I am so pleased that you are doing well. Congratulations. Keep up the good work. You will me train running before you know it! Best.
Lynn Ennis I hope it continues! It was so great to see my cardio and have him say everything is great! Such a me ... Read more
Lynn Ennis I hope it continues! It was so great to see my cardio and have him say everything is great! Such a mental high point. The last time I saw him conditions were the opposite!
I feel like I can deep a nice relaxed deep breathe. Even the pug is more relaxed...if that's possible...it's hard to sleep 23 hours a day I know...but she still dutifully follows. Me from room to room.
On November 25, 2013...
Dan and Mary Si posted a note for Lynn that says:
Lynn,
You sound like you are good to go , we hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Enjoy the Family!
Lynn Ennis Thanks Dan, same to you and Mary and Fam.
On November 23, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Lynn that says:
Yep. The damned "recovery Train" is a roller coaster in the beginning. The highs and lows start to get smaller as time goes by.
Take it slow and heal quickly. Good health and good healing.
Lynn Ennis Thanks Ernie- I am trying- if I go much slower I will turn into,wood!
On November 22, 2013...
Jackie keys posted a note for Lynn that says:
Sorry your not feeling well, I too have been fighting a Nast cough for two weeks. Saw my cardiologist today and my heart is good to go. It's the other crap. Feel better soon.