Hi Misti!

Sorry to hear you're having both physical and insurance problems.

Dean's quick return to work was wonderful but not the norm so I wouldn't plan on being back in 2 weeks. I also had my aortic valve replaced with minimally invasive surgery at the Cleveland Clinic and I didn't go back to work for 11 weeks although, to be honest, I could have gone back around week 8 if I had needed to. But I wasn't at all ready before week 8. I AM older than you appear to be (I'm in my 50s) but I'm in good shape with no other medical problems. Everyone's recovery is different (if you read through the journals you'll see that) and you should take yours as it comes. (Rushing into physical activity usually has consequences.)

I wouldn't worry about possible complications from the surgery. Again, everyone has a different experience. Most people have a relatively complication-free experience (some bumps in the road are normal . . .) and anticipating what COULD happen will just make you tense.

It sounds like you've found a good surgeon and will sonn have a good cardiologist. Put yourself in their hands and relax.

Good luck!!
Ricki Shine

Misti, I hope this surgery gives you some relief from all the heart issues you have experienced.

I had surgery Jan 7th of this year and was back at work in two weeks. This is considered fast but when your otherwise healthy you can bounce back fast.

Do your surgical homework. I had a minimally invasive procedure which is a 4 inch incision vs the traditional 8 - 10 inches. This smaller incision made recovery much faster. The Cleveland Clinic did the surgery. I had three other places say minimally invasive was not an option. The moral of the story is: Get more than one opinion !!

Best of luck to you Misti. Dean Muglia