On March 26, 2013...
Hello Michelle!
So glad to hear you are home! The tube was the worst part of the whole thing for me. I too woke up with it and my hands restrained. I wanted it out, but every time I would fall back asleep I would forget to breathe. I remember feeling like I was choking but it was because it needed to be suctioned out. The funny thing is I tried to use sign language to tell my husband about needing the tube suctioned and I forgot he doesn't know sign language and why in the heck did I never teach him! :) I just thought if this is the worst part of the surgery, it's almost over. I was thankful when it was out!
So happy you were able to get your valve repaired! Every day is going to be better! Today is one month post for me and I am now driving, walking over 2 miles and have much more endurance and energy! Welcome to the other side! Continuing to pray for you and your family as this getting home thing is an emotional time.
Sophie Marsh
On March 26, 2013...
Hi Michelle,
Glad you surgery was successful. The breathing tube was the worst part for me too. I had hope to sleep through it all but my body didn't agree. I felt like I was truly traumatized by the whole experience. Hope you can put your memories of that in the past.
Let me know if you'd like to share horror stories. sometimes it helps to get it off your chest with someone who's been there.

Nancy B
MVR 6/4/12
On March 24, 2013...
Great News Michelle! welcome to the ex-regurgitator club. Take the recovery nice and slowly, your body will thank you. In no time at all you will be feeling much, much better.

All the very best

Paul R (EX-Regurgitator MV Repair 13 Jul 2012)
On March 22, 2013...
Michelle, I am sooo happy for you that it went so well! Though I canĀ“t be there physically, you are in my thoughts and prayers daily. Recovery should be a snap now that all the worrying is behind you! Love ya, Aunt Mary
On March 20, 2013...
Having prayers answered is a blessing, now it's time to rest and heal.
Prayers continue for you and yours.
Shelley
On March 20, 2013...
Yeaahhhhh!!!!

Adam Pick
On March 20, 2013...
Michelle,
Wishing you all the best for a strong recovery. These surgeries are quite miraculous these days. I'm on day 20 after my own mitral valve repair at St Mary's Rochester MN. I pray God will bless your Journey back to excellent health.
On March 20, 2013...
Hi Michelle and Karl,

Although we are not physically present with you and the family please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May He give you peace for these hours as you wait and may He give the surgeons wisdom to work a miracle for Michelle. We are waiting expectantly for any further updates in the hours and days ahead. Please feel free to contact us anytime. Our email address is abond2001@yahoo.com

Aida and Steve Bond

P.S. Steve had his mitral valve replaced on 01/31/2013.
On March 20, 2013...
Michelle, I am praying for you. May your recovery be swift! Blessings baby girl. I love you, Puddin
On March 20, 2013...
Michelle, Just want you to know you, your family, and your doctors are in my prayers.
I just know this will be a good day and you will finally be begin to feel better. Sure do miss seeing your smiling face. All will be well.
God Bless you!
<3 Shelley
On March 20, 2013...
Good Morning Michelle!
I am praying for you and your family. Waiting for an update. It's all behind you now. It will only get better and better, moment by moment, day by day. Praying you heal at Godspeed! Today may be a tough day, but by tomorrow it will get easier. God will give you and your family the strength needed.
Isaiah 40:29-31 -He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:29-31 NKJV)
Sophie Marsh
On March 19, 2013...
Michelle,

God has you in the palm of His hand - He knows how many hairs you have on your head and how quickly you'll recover. Stand with Him and watch what miracles He does in you and your family. You will be a big encouragement to many. God's blessings!
On March 19, 2013...
Michelle,

My name is Selwyn Davidowitz and I hail from Cape Town, South Africa. 5 months ago I had an aortic valve replacemnt done. It was a doddle and subsequent to the operation I have never ever felt as good in my life. My blood peressure, sugar levels, weight, level of fitness and all my vital signs are close to perfect. The clue to all of this happening was that I never felt scared before or after the operation after all I had a great surgeon whom I trusted implictyly as I am sure you do have too. Secondly I made up my mind that I was 100% determined to be the winner in all that happened along the way. As matters stand all has happened according to plan

I am retired but for fun I work as a tourist guide in Cape Town. Looking at the picture you have posted on Adam's page I can see that you visited the Bloukrans Bridge while on the Garden Route in SA. If you think that the bungy jump off this bridge was daunting (whether you did the jump or simply watched it happening) believe me your heart op will be much easier than this crazy feat. (-:)

I hope and trust that all will go well tomorrow. Sleep well during the operation and remember that just like the many others ahead of you who came out so well and healthy from the procedure you will, I am sure conquer all similarly, painlessly and very easily becasue let the truth be told "it aint that bad".

My very best for tomorrow from the city where the first heart transplant was done in the world - beautiful Cape Town.

Godspeed to you.

Selwyn Davidowitz.
On March 19, 2013...
Hi Michelle, I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers. I know everything will be fine. See you on the other side of the mountain. Good luck
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
On March 18, 2013...
Praying for your big day tomorrow!

Niki Dixon (wife of Chris Dixon AVR 2/27/12)
Michelle Wanke  Thank you!
On March 18, 2013...
Good luck and go with good cheer. People who do best are those who believe in their ability to heal, have confidence in their doctors, know the surgery will leave them better off and believe in a higher power. I went from terror to inner peace in the last days, and so will you if you see the steps I listed ... James Lucas
Michelle Wanke  Hi James,
I was glad to read that your surgery went well and I hope your recovery is going well too. ... Read more
On March 18, 2013...
Best of luck to you, Michelle! You have so many caring family members and friends cheering for you on the sidelines! You will do great! It's in God's hands, and He will take good care of you, so let your worries go (easier said than done, I know!)! We will all be anxiously waiting to hear from your kiddoes on the great progress you'll be making! Take it easy and get well soon!!!

Doris Reiley
Michelle Wanke  Hi Doris,
Thank you for your post and positive words of encouragement. I'm trying to stay positive a ... Read more
On March 18, 2013...
Micky: I will arrive in S A on Wednesday morning and come to ER.
Let me get this straight so I don't wander off in to oblivion, the hospital is the University in the Med Center?
Is there a special wing?
Hope to see you in recovery,
Love Dad
On March 18, 2013...
Dear Mic, knowing that the big day is just around the corner is met with mixed emotions I know. I remember when my heart cath moved from "seeing what's up" to "we are going to do a bi-pass tomorrow", you are 95% blocked. So I didn't have much time to contemplate what was to come. I remember so vividly as I was fixin' to be wheeled away all the beautiful, smiling faces that I held so dear. I told them, "if anything goes wrong in here, I want you all to know how much I love all of you!" The calm came over me like some warm, soft vail. Point being, you are so loved and have such a strong support system and so many prayers for you, that calm should be present for you as well and we will be there to let you know it. Love Aunt Mel
Michelle Wanke  Hi Aunt Mel,
I know you know how I am feeling having experienced heart surgery yourself. I'm trying ... Read more
On March 13, 2013...
Hey Michelle, All of your feelings now are so normal. You are going to fly thru this and feel great pretty soon. You will feel pretty calm going into the OR. A nice feeling of calmnet will come over you then it will all be done. You will wake up and join the rest of us on the other side of the mountain. It is wonderful over here as you go down the other side in your recovery. Good luck to you and I will keep you and your family in my prayers. God is good and he will be there watching over you..
Life is good
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
On March 13, 2013...
Hi Michelle,

I have been thinking of you! Glad to hear that you met with Dr. Sako. I hope he answered all of your questions. I know this is a very stressful and scary time but please try to focus on the goal of a new you :) My prayers will continue to be with you and your family to carry you all the way through to the other side of all of this. Please call me anytime.

Aida
On March 12, 2013...
Hi Michelle, I have been following your posts and was really touched by the message you shared the day you bought the boot cleaner. That was a sign from above. Everything will be fine. I will be in Austin visiting with a new cardiologist the last week in March and will be looking forward to reading about your recovery. You and your family are in my prayers always. Keep the faith, he will see you thru. Leticia
Michelle Wanke  Hi Leticia,
I hope you like the cardiologist in Austin. My surgeon is Dr. Edward Sako and he is very ... Read more
On March 12, 2013...
Hi Michelle,
I'm on Adam's email list and recieve his weekly emails and happened to catch your March 4 and most recent entry. I have MVP and had a MV repair on November 8 at Northwestern Memorial in Chicago. I absolutely can understand every emotion you are feeling right now. No doubt the 2 months leading up to my surgery were the most stressful ever but PLEASE take my word that having gone through it all in the relatively recent past, everything will be just fine! The first 2 weeks post surgery were a little rough ( I felt totally wiped out...kind of like I had the flu), but by Christmas, I was feeling really good, went to Hawaii in January, and today feel great...back to running, playing tennis, working out without any restrictions. I hope these words provide a little comfort to you. Best of luck and God Bless!
On March 12, 2013...
Good Morning Michelle,
I just read some of your updates. Two weeks ago today I was in surgery right now. I also had one of those panic moments you talked about. It all starts with a thought and next thing you feel is like someone's hands are around your throat. I was running with Geoff and he was ahead of me and went around a corner and then I could not see him. I thought at that moment what if he has to continue without me and raise our girls and then I could not catch my breath and felt like I was going to pass out. It was fear at its worst trying to stop me from trusting God. Eventually Geoff came running back and helped me calm down. It is so frightening.
Facing this will have some unavoidable anxiety. If we didn't we would not be normal.
I studied Jesus in the garden the night before the crucifixion and you will see he too was "sorrowful and troubled, overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death... (Matt 26:36-45)
He could not sleep, and at the end God gave him the strength to say "Let's Go." He will strengthen you too when it's time to go.
I loved reading about the boot polish bag. It's so true. I was also encouraged by Ezekiel 37:14 where it says " I will put my spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I The Lord have spoken, and I have done it, declares The Lord." I randomly opened my bible to that one morning when I was having a really difficult time and it was raining out and a shaft of sunlight lit up my bible on the kitchen table and I went outside and there was a rainbow in the sky which is a sign of his promises to us.
You are getting ready for a new beginning. Compare it to the birth of your children, because this will be a rebirth of you. You will feel better. You will feel closer than ever to your husband. You will look back and see this time as His grace poured out on your life.
It's hard to imagine that from where you are, but it will happen.
You and your family are and will continue to be in our prayers.
Sophie Marsh
Michelle Wanke  Thank you so much Sophie. I have read your journals and was so glad to hear that your surgery went w ... Read more
On March 8, 2013...
All right! You've gotten to that place where you are excited. And focusing on your recovery. Good job getting there, it's the best place to be. Peace. -- DVB
On March 8, 2013...
Hi, Michelle --

For me, the days before the surgery (mitral valve and tricuspid valve repair) were all about keeping my sense of humor and letting go of my need to control the outcome.

Once I finally got it through my thick skull that these people really know what they're doing, they do it every day, all day, and for them, it's no big deal (even though it is to me), I was able to just kind of move through the process.

It wasn't a walk in the park, but it wasn't nearly as bad as I imagined. I think the thing I complained about the most in the hospital was....the food!! :-) Tell the folks when you hurt, and they'll give you pain meds.

You'll do just fine and in a few months, like the rest of us, you'll be amazed at how great you feel.

Best,

Selma Kaplan
On March 8, 2013...
Now that's what I'm talking about! You go girl, happy days are ahead! Love ya, AP
On March 6, 2013...
Hi Michelle, I am 7 weeks post-op for the same problem, and like the others have said, waiting is probably your toughest part. The day of surgery you go in and the basically give you something to relax. The rest of the day is in the hands of professionals and they are great. You feel yucky for a couple of days, no pain, just drowsy. Walk when they tell you, it really helps you feel better. Laugh with your family and the nurses. Very important to keep a sense of humor. The pain after is manageable , make sure you maintain pain meds. You really will do great. Your age and general condition are a big benefit to you. Keep posting!
Michelle Wanke  Thank you for your post. I wish you would have left me your name so that I could read your story. Hop ... Read more
On March 6, 2013...
Dear Michelle: My name is Adrian; I had the prodcedure 4 years ago, June 11. I just read your blog posting of March 4. Sorry, but I am so busy now after my aortic replacement and single by-pass, that I only get to check into Adam's page occasionally. I think we have all had that dark night of the soul, that you experienced the other day. Boring as it may seem, that was normal. What is also normal (but kinda extraordinary) is for you to realize that you and your husband are ready for this. You have assembled the best team possible for the plumbing work, and you have a large and growing crowd of people who love and support and are praying for you. You are in good hands. Your part is to relax, let the surgeon's team do their work, and focus on your recovery. And while you are at it, tune in to the waves of prayer and love that are washing over you! You'll find it will lift you off the bed! Be well friend, and calm in your mind. You are loved!
Michelle Wanke  Thank you Adrian. I am pleased to read that you are busy now. That must mean that your surgery was ... Read more
On March 5, 2013...
I just read your post, and I had to respond. There is no reason to dread your surgery. I had AV replacement and reconstruction, and single cardiac bypass surgery on Oct. 10, 2012. I feel better now than I have in many years! I work out every day (a habit that I learned in cardiac rehab, which I HIGHLY recommend). The pain of the surgery and recovery period was very manageable--far less discomfort than I had expected. I remember thinking in the hospital that the medical professionals really knew what they were doing. They were cheerful, competent, and determined to have me running up and down the halls before I went home. Please do not worry. If your experience is like mine, you will be surrounded with love and care from everyone you meet. God is good and faithful, and I'm praying for you to be blessed beyond belief. I will pray that the next three weeks passes quickly. By then you will be home with your family and on the road to wellness. It is SO worth it!
Patty (in Texas) (:
Michelle Wanke  Hi Patty from Texas! Guess we are neighbors. I am thankful for your comments and words of encourage ... Read more
On March 5, 2013...
Hi Michelle, You are feeling all the same feelings we all get. No one wants this but when I hear of other health problems that people have I thank God that I had what I had. I know the chances are so good of gettine a new and better life. I also had those wild horrible dreams. People would ask me if I was scared, Yes I would be crazy if I wasn't scared, but I prayed and God took care of all of it. He will be there for you too. Right before I had surgery I felt Gods arms around me. It was wonderful. I am fine now and my life is so good. Im still in recovery but it is good. When you have your surgery you will be over the worse part and that is the waiting. Good luck to you and I will keep you in my prayers. Life is good.
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
On March 4, 2013...
Breath through your attacks Michelle, and keep looking for the blessings. They are all around you, lifting you up. Just think of all the people out there praying for you and feel the love. You are so precious to us. Blessings, Puddin
On March 4, 2013...
Michelle I know all about the panic attacks!!! All I could think of was what would happen if I die and what my husband and kids would do. Our brains play some crazy tricks on us but now 6 weeks post I can say that you WILL be fine!!! No matter how many times you hear that it won't make you feel better....but you need to hear it over & over. I will keep you in my prayers...

Michelle DeCarlo
Michelle Wanke  Thank you Michelle. Can I ask you how much pain you experienced after surgery? I'm so afraid of bein ... Read more
On March 4, 2013...
It is normal to have these feelings. It is normal to worry and fear especially in light of your upcoming surgery. However, try to set your eyes on the positive outcome of this surgery. Try to think of your options without it...We all have to come to terms with the reality that without this surgery we are taking a much higher risk with our lives. How I wanted Steve to change his mind before the surgery (had these fearful thoughts for a few days) but ultimately I had to accept that without it, Steve would not be with us. So, if he can go through it and make it, why not allow him to go through it? For his benefit and our family's we stepped out in faith. May you also find the assurance and peace to help you through this journey.

Aida
Michelle Wanke  Hi Aida,
I am so grateful for your help and guidance. Thank you for being here for me. How is Steve d ... Read more
On March 4, 2013...
Amen...your thoughts prior to surgery are normal....you are ib God's hand...PRAY HOPE AND DONT WORRY....
JOHN MADONNA
LAS VEGAS NV
On February 28, 2013...
I appreciate your honest journal entries. It truly takes faith and courage to go through something like this. I admire the courage to face a very challenging circumstance and say, 'God I give you my life, or in my case, I give you my husband'. God has answered our prayers and I trust He will not let your hand go as you go down this road. No matter how fearful we get or cast down He will not forsake us. That's His promise to all of us. God bless you and keep you.

Aida
On February 27, 2013...
Michelle, start watching for those little blessings, like the boot cleaner, you ought to be seeing a lot now. They are absolutely from God, and are seen and unseen.
Blessings and love from Puddin
On February 26, 2013...
Hi Michelle, I love your post and it is so true. When I found out about what was going to happen to me, I joined my church and got baptized. I felt so much stress taken off me and right before my surgery I could feel Gods hands around me along with my Dad who has passed away but had OHS. My daughter also had OHS and I could hear God saying to me that everything was going to be ok. So hold onto that message you just put on here and keep it close to you. God is so good to us and I feel so blessed. Life is good.
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
On February 26, 2013...
What a great message. That just can't have been a coincidence. You are being watched over by the angels! Love you, Aunt Mel
On February 26, 2013...
Very nice message ... thanks ... James L
On February 26, 2013...
Wow, what a powerful message you received! I love when God speaks to us in ways we never expect. What a blessing, Michelle! Love you dearly! Dee
Michelle Wanke  Love you too!
On February 26, 2013...
What a blessing that message was to you Michelle. It was not an accident that you went back to get the boot cleaner!

Sometimes we need to let go and let God.

Love you, Janey
On February 26, 2013...
Thank you Michelle...that was beautiful
God Bless
JOHN MADONNA
Las Vegas NV
On February 21, 2013...
Michelle, just wanted to let you know all of us from Lewis Elem. are praying for you. You are always in my thoughts and pray that you overcome this illness with faith, strength, patience and understanding. Remember that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. (Philippians 4:13). At times, we don't understand why things happen the way they do but be confident that God is our refuge. We miss you greatly at school! Just this morning Jahz was asking for you. You will be happy to see just how great the twins are doing!
Jessica Salazar
Michelle Wanke  Hi Jessica,
I was so happy to hear from you. I miss y'all so much. Thank you for the prayers and wo ... Read more
On February 20, 2013...
Absolutely talk to Debbie and Shirley! Their spirits are still with you. Meme and Dodie and Aunt Kay, too. You are not alone in this at all. The only difference is that the ones still here can wrap our arms around you.
Hang in there, baby girl, you are very precious to us!
Love, Puddin
On February 20, 2013...
Good morning Michelle!
I went for my pre-op yesterday and have 6 days to go. I can't believe it, but I know God himself is strengthening me now. Don't try to do it in your own strength and please don't feel bad that your family has to go through this or blame yourself. You are getting ready for a new beginning and they have the opportunity to love and serve you through this and that is a blessing.
My surgeon believes that most valves (in the high 90 percent range can be repaired) my valve is prolapsed on both leaflets and is called a Barlow valve which makes it even more tricky. Figures. He is absolutely confident he will repair my valve. We did not spend hardly any time discussing the other options. Repair is the first priority for you!
In regards to the tissue valve: I have a friend who received the tissue valve for a different valve (her disease was so that repair was not an option) she is doing great! Last week I met a man who told me his wife had a tissue valve that lasted from when she was 16 until 46! That is 30 years. Unheard of, but happened.
Praying for you and your family!
Sophie Marsh
On February 16, 2013...
Hi Michelle,

We're right here with you every step of the way. We completely understand that this is one of the scariest times for anyone especially your loved ones. Please know that you are thought of and we are praying for you.

Aida
Michelle Wanke  Hi Aida,
Thank you so much for your prayers and support. Both have helped me immensely. I hope Stev ... Read more
On February 16, 2013...
Michelle,
Congratulations on your 26th anniversary! Not many couples these days that are that lucky! Having experienced fear living in a country gone crazy with violence and not wanting to leave my house, I finally have learned to live more "in the moment" and be grateful for each day and my many blessings and not let the fear take over. You are one of the strongest people I know and a real inspiration to all of us. I know you will come through your surgery with flying colors with all this positive energy coming your way and be here to keep inspiring us! Looking forward to seeing you and if I can help with your recovery, I am there! Love you, Aunt Mary
Michelle Wanke  Thank you for taking the time to keep up with my progress and for reminding me that I am a strong per ... Read more
On February 16, 2013...
Michelle know that I am praying for you, I have been in your shoes and have had heart valve surgery. It was 19 years ago and I am still here to talk about it. Know that God still performs miracle today through doctors and people who he placed in your life. I pray that God blesses you also with his miracles.
Daphney
Michelle Wanke  Hi Daphney,
How are you? Can I ask you what type of valve you chose as a replacement and what your he ... Read more
On February 15, 2013...
Good Evening Michelle,
Stay strong! You can do this. You have lots of support and prayers helping you get through this. We all want you around for a long, long time! The surgery is one more trial for you, but you can get through it. You will feel so much better when you recover. I am looking forward to seeing you on Feb. 20thwhen we gather with friends for dinner. We are all looking forward to am evening with you. Take care and know you are loved and cherished by many of us.
DeNette
Michelle Wanke  Hi DeNette,
How are you? I'm looking forward to dinner next week as well. Thank you for always help ... Read more
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