I'm looking forward to the three of us going swimming.
'Huggie Bear'
On July 25, 2011...
I'll be rootin' for you! -- DVB
On July 25, 2011...
Hi darlin' guess who? You have a restful night and Ipray that all will be well in the am. What did u do all day, while waiting for tomorrow?
love ya, MJ Hey, I am walking w/o my cane ,now, yeah! 27 days later.
On July 25, 2011...
Hi, Shirley, will miss you again tonight as we sign. Lori is off on the grand adventure if Bob's back holds out. Pam and I will meet and try to sign alone. I know we will talk too much but... You are in my thoughts and prayers! Jo
On July 25, 2011...
Another day in Cleveland with our mother. This place reminds my of a crazy hospital, everything is so white and modern and omg crazy clean.... Mother is definitely in good hands here!!!!!!!
On July 25, 2011...
Hi Shirley,
Your response to my guestbook post got cut off. You were just about to tell me where you live in the Denver area.
You are a KICK!! I love your attitude and it will go a long way to making this whole process a lot more bearable.
You are in my thoughts - keep smiling!
Anne Shannon
Shirley Howerton You are so sweet....thanks...I still want to write you more...A real nice CPA---(physician's Assistan ... Read more
Shirley Howerton You are so sweet....thanks...I still want to write you more...A real nice CPA---(physician's Assistant) just came in to give me the scoop on tomorrow. I'm first round..thank goodness..I'd get too hungry waiting till later!
On July 25, 2011...
Oh, Shirly, my dear HVJ friend....I had the same thing happened to me. I had done all of my primping the week before.....got my mani-pedi, a facial, a 2 hour massage, and my outfit for the hospital. Felt like I was getting ready for the prom....and then I received that call moving my date to the next day....got flashbacks of when Bobby Fedderson cancel our date to the Homecoming dance the day before. (It turned out better for me since I got to go with a friend of my brother who was a senior). And,it was the same with my date being moved....I had more time to tie up loose ends.
I hope you are staying calm!!
Sheila Garrison
On July 24, 2011...
Hey Shirl's,
Good luck tomorrow.
LOVE and PRAYERS for you.
ac
Shirley Howerton Thanks, ac...papa moose. Dillon will keep in touch....your cell phone.
On July 24, 2011...
Dear Shirley,
Here's wishing you peace and calmness on the eve of your surgery. You'll continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Sheila Garrison
Shirley Howerton Thank you so much Sheila. So nice to know that people like you are thinking about me and offering pr ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Thank you so much Sheila. So nice to know that people like you are thinking about me and offering prayers. God bless you.
On July 24, 2011...
Hi, Shirley baby, Itis so hot today. I will be thinking of u on Monday and I can not wait for Dillion's message as to how u are doing .
Shirley Howerton Thank you....I had fun trying to guess who wrote this....not too many people call me Shirley Baby. I ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Thank you....I had fun trying to guess who wrote this....not too many people call me Shirley Baby. I love it....maybe you are one of my "secret admirers" or my kids. Jusr being funny! If Dillon said he'll let you know, he will. Thanks Sweetie..hee hee
On July 24, 2011...
hey my girlfriend you will never be fat--really looking forward to your Mesa visit--yes you will be a new spring chick- ha--can not wait see you Shuffling--you take care, just be at Peace and know everything will be okay--after all we all need you to teach us signing--dancing--Face painting--Clowning--Cooking--Would love to see you in your clown make-up soon-- We love you Missy---
On July 23, 2011...
Hi Shirley,
Sounds like you're having fun in Cleveland! We will be thinking about you on Monday. What time is your surgery? Happy you like you're doctor. See you on Thursday. I know you will come through just fine! We all love you. Your onliest true sister, Maxine
Shirley Howerton I'm so glad you are coming to be with me. I feell a lot btter after talking to the surgeon and seein ... Read more
Shirley Howerton I'm so glad you are coming to be with me. I feell a lot btter after talking to the surgeon and seeing first-hand how efficient the nursing staff iis. They are wonderful. See you soon. Love ya, shirley
On July 23, 2011...
Hi Shirley!
Dr. Sabik replaced my aortic valve in May 2010 . . . he and his entire team are the best! You are in great hands so relax this weekend and you'll soon be on the road to recovery.
And if you have a nurse named Teresa Hill, please say hi for me.
You'll be in my thoughts on Monday.
Ricki Shine
Shirley Howerton Thank you Rick for the encouragement. It's good to hear from people who have "been there, done that." ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Thank you Rick for the encouragement. It's good to hear from people who have "been there, done that." Hey, my aortic valve is 13 years old and no problems I'll lkeep a heads-up for Teresa. Shirley
On July 22, 2011...
Okay girl! Behave yourself in Ohio! No wild parties while you're there! Bob and I are leaving tomorrow for Ouray. Will be thinking about you and keeping you in our prayers while we're down there photographing. Will be back August 2nd. I'm making Pam and Jo do extra sign homework while you're gone! I think they're glad to be rid of me! : )
Many hugs and best wishes and prayers for a successful surgery! Love ya!
Lori
Shirley Howerton Ouray is so beautiful. Bet you'll get some beeautiful photos. We just love your bomework assignment ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Ouray is so beautiful. Bet you'll get some beeautiful photos. We just love your bomework assignments....keeps us on our toes. Glad I don't have to do anything...tee hee. Thanks for your prayers. Hello to. Bob. Luv ya, shirley
On July 22, 2011...
HiShirley I hope everything is working well for ya at this time. I am praying for you. I know you will do well and we will be dancing up a storm. I am walking 95% of the time w/o the cane.So chin up and know I love you! MJ
Shirley Howerton Maryjane, Thank you for being you. What would I do without you? I'd starve to death without your c ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Maryjane, Thank you for being you. What would I do without you? I'd starve to death without your cooking and where would I go when I have nowhere to go? Nowhere, I guess. I'd just go get into mischief!! Wow..you're doing good with your knee. Can't wait for tht "dance storm." Tee hee. Thank you for the prayers. Shirley
On July 22, 2011...
Hello Good Lady Shirley, happy to hear you've had some time in Cleveland to relax & enjoy the grand kids.
Glad you won't be there in the winter.
It's time to wink at your surgeon and give him the OK, and let him know how strong and wonderful you are.
My thoughts & Prayers are for you to have a successful surgery,.
Lots of love from papa moose.
Shirley Howerton Ac, remember how much fun we had at the hospital with the staff when I had my ablations and cardio co ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Ac, remember how much fun we had at the hospital with the staff when I had my ablations and cardio conversions? I have that same confidence with this surgery....especially after metting and talking to my surgeon. Good thing you're not here, we'd have too much fun!!! Luv. you, shirlls
On July 22, 2011...
Hi Shirley,
I have your name on my calendar and wanted to let you know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers. I'll look forward to reading your post.
Blessings to you!
Sheila Garrison
Shirley Howerton Hi sheila. Thank you so much for writing. You've been such an inspiration to me. How nice to know ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Hi sheila. Thank you so much for writing. You've been such an inspiration to me. How nice to know that you care and are praying for me. I know you will continue to do good. I want to keep hearing about your progrss as well. Bless you. Shirley
On July 22, 2011...
Hi, Shuffles! With your attitude, you will be out and dancing in no time. Keep smiling! Whuffo
Shirley Howerton Thanks whffo. I am so excited to get this done and move forward. I have to admit, there were moment ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Thanks whffo. I am so excited to get this done and move forward. I have to admit, there were moments of anxiety, but I made myself snap out of it. I have absolutely no anxiety now. I've prayed for strength and the good. Lord has blessed me. Thank you for your support and friendship. Shuffles
On July 22, 2011...
I don't know where in Denver you live but I am in Evergreen. I went to South Denver Cardiology for Cardio-rehab. By all means do rehab! This is a lovely facility with a great staff and I recommend them most highly!
I'm sure you are in better shape than I was but I have made great strides in taking advantage of my new lease on life!
Anne Shannon
Shirley Howerton Thank you so much Anne for the sweat. and positive responses. I live in
Shirley Howerton Oops......live in NW Denver.... by SLOANES LAKE.....How fun it would be to meet you personally. I ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Oops......live in NW Denver.... by SLOANES LAKE.....How fun it would be to meet you personally. I have heard of South Denver Cardiology...I'll check them out...thanks.
On July 22, 2011...
Dear Shirley,
I too am from the Denver area and had surgery on 7/16/2010 at CC. Best place in the world. It's kind of like Spaceship Enterprise, isn't it?
My experience was so positive that I never shut up about it! One year later and I feel a million percent better. With your positive and upbeat attitude, I suspect you will do great. I love your bright and breezy journal!
On a really positive note, I met an 88 year old woman in Evergreen who, at my urging, went to CC for her aortic valve replacement. She had great results and was back at her apartment, living on her own, within three weeks.
I realize all situations are different but you will be in the best hands anywhere. From the ICU staff to the nurses to the people who take care of you daily, they are the best.
I have a journal if you would like to read it. If you have any questions, by all means, ask me or Ricki Shine or Barry from New Mexico.
You made the right decision to go to CC and I will send all positive thoughts your way!
Anne Shannon
On July 19, 2011...
Hello Mother,
Just thinking about you. You left this morning and we miss you already. Keep Dillon and Jadyn in line for us. See you soon I love you.
Your favorite daughter!! Katrina
Shirley Howerton Katrina, I think your son talked me into renting the mustang convertible. We had so much fun. with ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Katrina, I think your son talked me into renting the mustang convertible. We had so much fun. with it---cant believe he griped about my driving!! looking forward to seeing you Sunday. I miss you too. Love you, mom
On July 18, 2011...
Shirley, best of luck to you during your surgery. I know you will be in great hands at the Cleveland Clinic. I will be praying for you and really appreciate your posting to me when I was in surgery. I'm still home recovering but things are going well. I will be checking your posts and following along as you make your journey. Your friend Tammy Golchert in Dallas, TX
On July 18, 2011...
Hi, Shirley, just got your e-mail about this site. It will be a great way for all your friends to keep updated. Know I am and will continue to keep you in my prayers through the surgery and recovery. We need to keep those fingers flying! Jo Domokos
On July 17, 2011...
I'll be looking for you girl-- Mesa in Zumba and we'll be doing the "Shuffle" 'YOU GO GIRL' I know you will be in better shap than I--Shirley I can tell you what an inspiration, talented, fun loving, caring,imspiring person you are--YOU ARE WONDERFUL, I want some of that Spag. you are going to cook--now I'm hungry--Gloria is trying to connect you--told her to write in your Journal--Roxy and Lizzie send there licks Lots of Hugs--LOL
Shirley Howerton Hey you guys, YOU are the ones who are inspiring!! I sure miss you!! Who knows, maybe I'll come vi ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Hey you guys, YOU are the ones who are inspiring!! I sure miss you!! Who knows, maybe I'll come visit you in Mesa some day--but only in the winter!!
Thank you for all the compliments--wow--you make me feel so special!! I'll always remember how much fun we girls had shopping and playing cards. Oh, and of course, eating, drinking margaritas and talking girl talk!! What a life!! Love you guys. (and the doggies)!!
On July 17, 2011...
Shirley, we really have enjoyed your company
at the dances. We will be hoping and praying
for the best results from your surgery.
Shirley Howerton Thank you so much for your support and prayers. I'm going to miss going to the dances so much, but I ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Thank you so much for your support and prayers. I'm going to miss going to the dances so much, but I've set some high goals to get right back on the dance floor. I'm taking my dance shoes to Cleveland for motivation!!
You guys do a dance for me--Happy feet!!
On July 16, 2011...
My darlin shirley, You are the bestest friend. Thank you for everything and the time you have helped me, mom, and Johnny. We wve you. YOU MAKE ME HAPPY WHEN YOU TRIED TO BECOME AN ITALIAN BY MAKING MY RECEIPE FOR THE SAUCE. UMMMH GOOD! WHAT TIME IS DINNER WILLIS! I expect you to follow through with dinner on your return, CARLO ROSSI WILL BE THERE WAITING. I love you! Don't dissappoint me-- GET ON BACK HERE. Mary Jane
Shirley Howerton Dear MaryJane, No....thank you!! Thank you for being my "home away from home!" Thank you for being ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Dear MaryJane, No....thank you!! Thank you for being my "home away from home!" Thank you for being my best friend all these years...how did you ever put up with me and my nonsense? When I return I will make you "your" famous spagetti and we'll eat at your house, listen to your beautiful Italian music and celebrate your new knee and my mended heart!! But no dancing on the tables or clowning around!!!!!
Love you bunches, Shirley
On July 13, 2011...
Hey Missy
This is so much fun and what a great idea that your grandson will keep us posted--Pics will be good cause we want to see that smiling face of yours :):) I know our minds can play tricks on us at times and be negative but you have a wonderful surgeon --what a successful track record--you're in good hands---you are loved by many :)- We are keeping you in our hearts and prayers--I want to see you in your clown make-up when you feel better--okay-- lol Janet
Shirley Howerton Thanks Jan and Arlan, you guys are soooo sweet and so enspiring! You're right about the great surge ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Thanks Jan and Arlan, you guys are soooo sweet and so enspiring! You're right about the great surgeons in Cleveland, I feel very confident about that! Yes, I can't wait to do more clowning....and dancing....I might even "Zumba" with you one day!! They don't call me "Shuffles" for nothing!!
lol and hugs
On July 13, 2011...
Hi Shirley Whirley,
Nice to talk to you again. Happy you are doing so well. Looking forward to seeing you. Love your journal. Happy you got to see our brother and that he is doing well. Love you and see you soon. Love, Sister Maxine
Shirley Howerton Oh good, you got on!! Isn't this modern technology wonderful? Grandpa would roll over in his grave! ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Oh good, you got on!! Isn't this modern technology wonderful? Grandpa would roll over in his grave! Remeber when I got him a keyboard because he had no piano and he couldn't figure out how to use it? Well, guess who can't figure out the keyboard now? tee hee!! Maybe you can when you come to Denver!!
Love ya lots, Whirley Shirley
On July 13, 2011...
Dear Shirley, My thoughts and prayers are with you always. I know you will come through with flying colors! All the Colorado Clowns miss you, and you know I am your Number One clown fan.
Frank "Whuffo"
Shirley Howerton Thanks Whuffo for the encouragement and prayers. I plan on getting right back in shape so I can 'cl ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Thanks Whuffo for the encouragement and prayers. I plan on getting right back in shape so I can 'clown around' alot more!! I plan on practicing twisting balloons while I'm recuperating.
Hugs and grins, Shuffles
On July 11, 2011...
Dear Miss Shirley; I am keeping you in my heart and my prayers and I just know you will be back here with all of us who love you dancing up a storm again sooner than your doctors will expect you to!!!! You can get to me at francucci@msn.com if you with to but I will keep checking up o you this way!
Love, love, love you. Maggie
Shirley Howerton Maggie, look on 'My journal' for my response--I finally figured this technical thing out--amazing!! ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Maggie, look on 'My journal' for my response--I finally figured this technical thing out--amazing!! I responded to you there instead of here! Thank you so much for writing!!
Love and hugs
On July 11, 2011...
Hi Shirls,
This is a great idea. You are in my thoughts & prayers.
I'm sure you are going to well, you're one tough but wonderful cookie.
I'm here if you want to talk.
love you,
ac.
Shirley Howerton Oh, I get it...dugh....this is where I respond..you know how slow I am, ac! Look on 'My Journal' fo ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Oh, I get it...dugh....this is where I respond..you know how slow I am, ac! Look on 'My Journal' for my response to you. Thank you so much for writing..you're so inspiring!!
Love ya
On July 11, 2011...
Hey girl!!!
Thought I'd check in on you to see how things are going. Have been keeping you in my thoughts and prayers! Thanks for sending me the link to your heart surgery blog. It will be nice to be able to keep track of you as you go through the process of surgery.
Bob is doing better since back surgery. He had a rough time with the anesthesia but once he got past that part, he has done well. Still has to be careful not to bend, lift or twist with his back but that is the main restriction for 6 weeks. After that I can have peace and quiet again! I can hardly wait!! : )
Will continue to pray for you, and will miss seeing you at sign class. When you are up to it, we will either come get you for class or meet you near your house.
Take care, and am thinking warm thoughts of you!
Lori and Bob : )
Shirley Howerton Lori, thanks for checking in. I'm so glad Bob is doing well-but you know how he is--he may be up to ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Lori, thanks for checking in. I'm so glad Bob is doing well-but you know how he is--he may be up to his old 'pranks' soon! Keep a close watch on him--tee hee! Thanks for your prayers and thoughts--the girls can practice praying for me in 'sign'. I hope to see you in church next Sunday before I leave.
Love and hugs....
On July 11, 2011...
Shirley, this is Emilyrae. Tomorrow I have mital valve regurgitation surgery tomorrow at ClevelandClinic, Dr Jaber is my cardiologist and Dr Marc Gillinov is my surgeon. I am also 68 and considered a fun "bubee" (grandmother) so I am ready to get onwith it but right now I am a little weak in the knees.
God Bless us both.Let's make 68 proud.
EmilyraeHelfen
Shirley Howerton Emilyrae, this is Shirley. Thanks for writing. I agree 100%. We WILL make 68 proud!! I've heard ... Read more
Shirley Howerton Emilyrae, this is Shirley. Thanks for writing. I agree 100%. We WILL make 68 proud!! I've heard so many good things about Dr. Gillinov--your are in good hands. I will be following you and praying for you. I can relate to "weak ing the knees!"
Aren't grandkids fun? Last week I just became a Great-grandma the 2nd time!! We will both have alot of years still to play and enjoy them.
God bless you,
Shirley Howerton
On July 6, 2011...
you are a special lady Ginger Rogers, I'll always call you that because of your style and grace on the dance floor :) Our prayers and thoughts are with you--Have peace-- he is holding your hand--Lots of Love from Arlan and "me" Roxy and Lizzie send you lots of hugs and licks---love reading your journal, you should be a writer--lol
On July 6, 2011...
Dear Shirley,
Thank you for dropping in and visiting my journal. It means a lot to me. I thought I was at peace with my approaching day (and for the most part, I am). But, once or twice a day, those negative & scared feels pop in and I have to stop, deep breathe & talk with God. I try and keep my heart filled with Him and that's why I'm doing fine 90% of the time.
I will be following your journey also and keeping you in my thoughts a prayer.
Sheila Garrison
On June 12, 2011...
I found your response just fine. You are doing everything right to me. Just to let you know, I wanted to get a robotic surgery but, my surgeon advised against it. He said robotic is still not quite what he wants it to be. So, I had a mini sternotomy and they opened me up, repaired my mitral valve and a hole in my heart and closed me up in 2 hours. I was in ICU for maybe 24 hours and then I walked from ICU to my regular room with a push roller walker. It wasn't a short walk but, I wanted to walk the whole way. Well, just wanted to share a few things about how my surgery went for you to compare with others. Wishing you well,
Robert Elliott
On June 11, 2011...
Hi Shirley,
Welcome to Heart Valve Journals!
Glad you're figuring out how to communicate with your support group and meet other patients!
Keep on tickin!
Adam Pick
On June 10, 2011...
Hi Shirley, my name is Robert Elliott. I had mini sternotomy mitral valve repair and am at 3 weeks after surgery right now. All has gone pretty well. Are you getting robotic or sternotomy surgery? Either way, I hope it all goes smooth for you.
Robert Elliott
On June 10, 2011...
Shirley, welcome to the site. You will find much information and support here. I read your story and ours are very similar. I am 68 also and having my mitral valve repaired at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio on July 12. I also have an afib ablation in 08 and pvc ablation in 09 - all successful and at CCF. By the grace of GOD I did not need a pacemaker and I am in NSR with no meds for afib. Years (10) of afib and pvcs took a toll on my mitral valve and I will be having it repaired in July. Trying to get all ducks in a row is hard with 10 grandchildren and 9 within 12 miles of us - lots to do always - they don't understand why Bubee has to go get her heart fixed, she is doing just fine with us, playing basketball, pitching & hitting ball with the 9 yr olds, on the road it seems all the time going from one event to another so yes, I am active but have noticed that it takes more out of me and more time to recover - my mother died at 85 of congested heart (valve disease) so........I feel blessed that there are these methods to fix things before it goes to far. GOD has blessed me good. You will be in my prayers and hope you will keep me in yours.
Emilyrae Helfen
I'm looking forward to the three of us going swimming.
'Huggie Bear'