John's Journal

It's been 4 3/4 years since I posted on this site and is quite a long post. Quite a bit has happened to me since then so I thought I'd share a new part to my story. After our move to Denison, TX we were in an apartment and thought we were going to live the apartment life for a few years. But God had other plans for us, we purchased a beautiful 4 bedroom-3 bath home and have been enjoying it. Four years ago I began a new trek in life by volunteering at our local hospital, Texoma Medical Center, which is approximately 2 miles from our home. There are three wonderful thoracic surgeons who practice here with a fourth coming on over the next few. months. It is a great program that was started 25 years ago by one of the thoracic surgeons. The criteria for becoming a Heart Mender is you have had to undergo open heart surgery. We volunteers visit patients prior to their surgery whether it is bypass or valve surgery. When we visit them we give them the opportunity to ask any questions of us. Our answers are to offer them the opportunity to see that the surgery works and we are living proof that. We also speak with any family members that are with them. We then have a desk in the surgery waiting area where we receive hourly updates on the surgery and inform the family of the progression. Once their loved one is brought to their room in the CVICU, we get permission from the nursing staff to bring them in for a short visit. The next day they have the pleasure of coming in and talking to the patient. It is a great program and I feel blessed to be able to participate in it. The families are also very appreciative because they are kept apprised of the surgery and it eases their minds. At the time of writing this I have 500+ hours of service.

Now I get to the latest part of my journey. In June 2022 I had and ECHOcardiogram done and everything was diagnosed that my heart valve was functioning as it should be and my heart as a whole was looking great. Then in December 2022 I caught the dreaded COVID-19 after 2 years of my family members having had it 2-3 times. Even my PCP said I must be a superman to have avoided it for so long. After diagnosis I was prescribed Paxlovid which knocked it out in 5 days. I stayed quarantined for the recommended length of time. Then, lo and behold, I got it again. This time I couldn't get the medicine again because I have weak kidneys. So I quarantined again for 10 more days. After that bout I kept having pains in my chest. I was told it is probably an after effect of COVID, or muscular, or skeletal pain. But I knew it had to be something else. It's one of those feelings when you know your own body is saying something and you'd better check it out. My daughter works for my cardiologist so she spoke to him and they squeezed me in for an exam. I then had a CT scan and they found two blocked arteries that they didn't see in the previous ECHO. I was scheduled to have stents put in on January 27, 2023. One (the widow maker) was 75% blocked, the other 50%. Prior to the procedure the 2 cardiologists conferred and noticed that the blockage was too big for a stent and that they would tear 2 other arteries had they performed it. I then became a candidate for a CABG (Cardiovascular Arterial Bypass Grafting). On January 18 I was at a volunteer meeting at the hospital when suddenly I felt very strange. I lost the room, the person who was speaking, got nauseous, dizzy and very hot. Then it disappeared as fast as it occurred.

I texted my daughter and told her something strange just happened to me and to ask at the office what should be done. My cardiologist was on duty at the ER - so the NP told her to get me to the ER STAT! she came to our conference room with a wheelchair and took me straight to the ER. Since my doctor was on duty, they took me right to a room. The nursing staff started working on me and my doctor came in with the ER doctor and they admitted me immediately. I was on the verge of a major heart attack and needed that bypass ASAP. I asked for one of the thoracic surgeons to be the one who performed the surgery. His schedule had an opening so he booked it. I then laid in the ER for what seemed like hours because there were no beds yet available. Then the charge nurse in CVICU (whom I know) heard I was in the ER. She told them that as a volunteer I was family. They had open beds and I was quickly transferred to the CVICU.

Being a Heart Mender volunteer has its privileges. I was treated as a VIP. I just never thought I'd be on the other side. The next morning the thoracic surgeon came in and said my labs showed my heart needed some help. So, off I went into the cath lab and had a balloon pump placed in my femoral artery to give my heart some rest. Then on January 20 I was scheduled for my bypass. When they finally opened me up (mind you, second time in 8 years), they found 3 blockages. Since I had had vein ablations in my legs and ulnar nerve repair on my right arm, they had to get an artery and vein from my left radial. The third blockage was having an artery rerouted from my heart to function properly. So here I am just over 3 months from a surgery I never anticipated writing this. I am happy to report that I lost 40 pounds since surgery. I am doing well and enjoying my life. I've even been back on my Harley and completed my cardiac rehab. Now, I have a new story to add when I am volunteering. It really gives the patients more to see and understand that bypass surgery works well.

This Heart  Mender program is great for us as volunteers - it is paying it forward, gives the patients some ease of their nervousness and keeps the families calm. I think other hospitals should institute programs like this. My wife absolutely loved being kept informed throughout the surgery by the Heart Mender on duty and the anesthesiologist whom I personally know because of my volunteering. She was especially pleased because she didn't hear anything for 6 hours during my valve replacement 8 years ago. If you've read to this point, thanks for putting up with such a long post. I'm just glad to still be here and to enjoy the next 25 years of my life. God bless - Onward & Upward!

Well hello to my friends...I have not been on the site for almost 2 years. It's not that I have forgotten you...it has been hectic time. Much has happened in my life since my last post. Our son-in-law had a liver transplant in November 2016 which was a major feat in life. He is approaching his 2nd year with no signs of rejection. He does have some issues with gastroparesis which is a by-product of the genetic disease (amyloidosis) which was the reason for the transplant. It began to manifest in his system thus the need for a new liver. It is something he will have to live with for the rest of his life. On September 16, 2017, my wife and I celebrated our 50th anniversary. We had many family members and friends join us in celebrating. We rented a huge home in Lake Tahoe and had a week of family fun time. After we celebrated the holidays my wife & I made a major decision. After almost 50 years in California, we decided to move to Denison, Texas. We spoke with our daughters and received their blessing to do so. We started downsizing and put our mobile home up for sale. We priced to sell -- had an open house and sold it within a week. We closed the deal the end of June and arrived in Denison on July 6th. Life is sure different here from CA. "Small town" America -- about 20,000+ in the area. It is known as Texoma since it is about 10-15 minutes from the border of Oklahoma. We've friends that had moved here prior to us and have since met some very nice people. We have also found a great church which we attend. We're renting an apartment for now while we look around and decide what we'd like to do as far as living arrangements. We also have our granddaughter living with us -- she is going to attend college about 4 miles from where we live. we're also about 1.5 miles from Texoma Medical Center which is a state of the art facility and houses all of the doctors and specialists which I need and use. Before moving I had a prostate biopsy and was found to have a very early stage of cancer, but not enough for any real concern. Don't need a check-up on it until next April. Other than that all is going well...I'm feeling good...my last heart checkup was just great and my cardiologist wished me the best in my endeavors and said to keep up the good work. My next surgery is to remove a cataract in my right eye...I see my new ophthalmologist next Tuesday. I was pre-authorized for my surgery prior to moving. We put it off until after the move for obvious reasons...so pretty soon I'll be able to see better. Again...sorry that I haven't written in a while, but I will look in once in a while...I like keeping up with the stories and reading the successes that we have had. As always God bless you all and remember -- Onward and Upward, John

Wow! I just read Terri's post and it reminded me that I haven't been on this site for quite some time - so I figured I'd better write something new. First, on October 17th I celebrated my 2 year anniversary (birthday). I, as usual, prayed a prayer of thanks. I also mailed a thank you card to my surgeon which I decided to do every year as long as he is practicing medicine. In September I celebrated my 36th year of sobriety and together with my lovely wife - 49 years of marriage. Second, my son-in-law, Justin, had his liver transplant surgery last night/early today. Justin's surgery started at 11pm and he came out of surgery around 3:30am. All went well and he is in ICU for observation and he is resting! Prayers still needed as his body now gets used to a new liver! He is sitting up and taking fluids. Our daughter said this is the best he has looked in a long time. We also ask for prayers of thanks for the family who donated the liver of their loved one! Third, for all of our friends who are waiting for surgery just know that we are always thinking of you and praying that all goes well. For our friends who have already had surgery - glad we're all still her. The other choice is not a good one for me at this moment in time. I send my prayers to all of you and as we approach Thanksgiving I will definitely be thankful for you all and this site for its helpfulness. I am still riding my Harley and enjoying the freedom it gives. I just joined the K-LOVE Motorcycle Ministry whose vision is to serve the greater community. It's a great radio station and organization. I see my cardiologist on the 16th and expect a good report. I send my prayers to all of you, I will definitely try to get on here more often. Onward and Upward, John

This is kind of late in the day to post, but I have been very busy these past few weeks! I have been helping wiring, setting up a computer network, TVs, building a wall and loads of other types of work. We gave been working hard to get our brand new church building ready for Easter Sunday. Many hours put in by many people. We have been working since October 2015 for this auspicious occasion! The church is The Pointe Church (www.thepointe.net) in Antelope, CA. We had two fully packed services today and every weekend in April we will celebrate our Grand Opening. This has been a 7 year venture that has finally come to fruition! It's an exciting time for us as a community. We celebrated a family dinner with our daughters and grandchildren. Our son-in-law was not feeling well today. The good news on Justin is he has been placed on the CA & national transplant lists. He is seeking a live donor and already has 4 people who have qualified to be tested. Each potential donor is tested one at a time. If they do not meet test criteria, the next person gets tested. The first person to be tested will start the process next week. Here is the link for bring a live donor: www.ucliverdonor.org. The questionnaire is confidential and your information is not given out. The named recipient is: Justin Haury, DOB 3/25/1981. This is a video that the hospital recommends: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=pHihM5__4JU&feature=youtu.be. The wait for a cadaver donor is 2+ years in CA, that is why they are seeking a live donor. The amazing thing here is a liver will regenerate in 2 weeks. If you know anyone who might want yo be considered, please have them fill out the questionnaire. Upon completion, they will know if they are qualified. Thanks for any consideration. Anyhow, our family had a great time breaking bread today. As for me, I have been feeling real well. Still battling diabetes control, but getting better. I see my cardiologist in 3 weeks for my semi-annual checkup. I am not expecting anything out of the ordinary. Since my AVR I have become more involved in my ministry both at my home church and the biker church (www.thunderroadchurch.com) I attend on Thursdays. I am getting ready to start a motorcycle ministry at our church. Wow, I wrote a great deal of stuff! In closing, I pray you all had a great Easter. As always I pray for each of you daily. For those waiting for their surgery just know that we all care about you and wish you well. God bless and Onward & Upward -- John

Well, this is it the last day of another year. I am very grateful to have made it through this year wonderfully. I am feeling better, have taken some great trips, seen a couple of my favorite musical artists and enjoying life since my AVR! Had a great Thanksgiving and a wonderful Christmas with my family. My wife and I have made some decisions this past month financially and spiritually that will be our goal and accomplished in 2016! Since I fully expect another 25-30 years more, it's time to truly live the life He is providing me! This coming year our church is moving into its own building - an exciting new chapter in our church life. I am going to head up a motorcycle ministry as well! I am also starting the new year by preaching for a friend who is having eye surgery on Tuesday...so on 1/10-17-24-31 I get to start it in a role I love - sharing the Word! This is going to be a series titled, "The New Normal" - focusing on building our future on solid ground - finances, lifestyle, diet, spiritual well-being and so on. Man, this is going to be an even better year! I am super excited for what is to come. I wish for each and everyone on this new year an abundance of happiness and good health! May you all shine and enjoy the journey ahead of you! As always, Onward & Upward! I'll be in touch! God bless you!

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 NIV This is my second Christmas since my AVR so I wish a very Merry Christmas to all! May God continue to bless you!

To all of my heart brothers and sisters as I celebrate this Thanksgiving in a much different way I think of all of you who have had this same experience. I have a great deal to be thankful for - I am still alive & I have a very supportive wife and family. I also have all of you! The words I read in this blog both pre- & post-surgery helped me immensely. So, I wish for all you who have had surgery and those who are still waiting a very happy thanksgiving. God bless you all. Just keep on moving forward. Onward & Upward!

To all of my heart brothers and sisters as I celebrate this Thanksgiving in a much different way I think of all of you who have had this same experience. I have a great deal to be thankful for - I am still alive & I have a very supportive wife and family. I also have all of you! The words I read in this blog both pre- & post-surgery helped me immensely. So, I wish for all you who have had surgery and those who are still waiting a very happy thanksgiving. God bless you all. Just keep on moving forward. Onward & Upward!

To all of my heart brothers and sisters as I celebrate this Thanksgiving in a much different way I think of all of you who have had this same experience. I have a great deal to be thankful for - I am still alive & I have a very supportive wife and family. I also have all of you! The words I read in this blog both pre- & post-surgery helped me immensely. So, I wish for all you who have had surgery and those who are still waiting a very happy thanksgiving. God bless you all. Just keep on moving forward. Onward & Upward!

Well fellow heart travelers this Saturday October 17 is my first anniversary of my AVR? Yesterday October 14 I saw my cardiologist to get the results of my first ECHO since the surgery. He was extremely happy with how my heart sounded. He reminded me that I still had a slight mitral valve murmur, but more silent than before surgery. I've known about this since 1959...so no heavy duty concerns. Then he gave me the results. All chambers are clear and functioning properly...mitral valve is working well and as far as he is concerned the new valve is working perfectly. That awesome news made my day or should I say my year! He told me to continue losing weight...I have lost over 25 pounds...down to 195 and looking at 175 as goal! I don't have to see him for 6 months and no ECHO for 2 years! I am feeling more energized than over a year ago and am grateful that my Lord has given me a new lease on life. So, next week my wife & I are celebrating by going to Las Vegas to see Elton John. We've had a great year...saw Tony Bennett with Lady Gaga in Hollywood...went to Victoria, BC, Canada and a road trip through Washington & Oregon, plus I did a 300 mile motorcycle ride with a bunch of my buddies last Sunday around Lake Tahoe. Life is Great...1 down & 4 up! This Sunday I am substitute preaching for a good friend who is on vacation-topic: Prayer Is A Powerful Weapon. I have a lot to share about that! Can't ask for much more right now. As always my prayers are with those of us who have been through the process and definitely for those waiting. Keep the faith and may God bless you all! Onward & Upward - John

I just noticed I joined this forum on September 16, 2014. That was my 47th wedding anniversary and I was just able to celebrate my 48th with my wife on a marvelous vacation. We went to Washington state, Victoria, BC, Canada & Oregon. Had a wonderful and I felt great throughout the trip especially in the heights. It is still amazing to me that it is almost a year since my AVR! I am still in awe and assured that God isn't done with me yet! Onward & Upward!

This Wednesday I have my first ECHO since surgery. We'll see what results are in a few weeks when I see my cardiologist. I'm feeling real good, so I don't expect any weird or strange results. I'll keep you posted. Onward & Upward!

Went with a couple of heart brothers to our old cardiac rehab unit. We brought the ladies a nice plant and card signed by the three of us. Wow, what a greeting! They knew we missed them and we now know they miss us! They are a great bunch and we are happy to know that they truly care about what they do every day. The best part of the visit is that they noticed we have lost weight and kept it off! Sure made me feel good! We've also gotten in touch with another member of the club and we'll be having lunch together. A nice friendship has developed amongst us and we plan to meet at least once a month! Life is good! Onward & Upward!

On July 11th I posted a prayer request for my son-in-law and I wanted to update you. This is my original post with some updates: This may not be the place for this, but I feel the need to share it. Our son-in-law, Justin Haury, was just diagnosed with Familial Amyloidosis. This is a genetic disease which can be fatal. It runs in his family. His mother, grandmother, some aunts & uncles passed from this. It is possible that my grandchildren may have this. His brother, Jared Haury, has to now be tested - he also has 2 children. This is a very trying time for all the families, especially for Sydney, the oldest daughter who will be 15 in September. She was told last week and she saw what this disease did to her grandmother and will worry about her dad. She hasn't really spoken to anyone - she is processing it in her way at the moment. The other granddaughter, Camryn is 6 and Jacob, the grandson is 3. Please cover the families in prayer. We have also started a fundraiser for the family as we anticipate some HUGE medical expenses now and in the near future. Justin has used all of his sick and vacation time so when he calls in sick as he has 3 times this week, he loses pay and they cannot afford that. If you find it in your heart to contribute, you can do so using PayPal and use this email: hauryfamilyfunds@gmail.com. Justin has begun to see specialists and next week he has to have an EKG & an ECG to see if it has affected his heart. Then he has to have some tissue biopsies and most likely a liver biopsy since that is the main organ his strain attacks. Lots going on here! I, John, will be willing to answer any questions. Feel free to message me. We, the family, would greatly appreciate any financial contributions and prayers. Our fundraisers have received over $1200 in contributions since I posted this and both the Noriega and Haury families are very thankful for monetary contributions and prayers. Onward & Upward! Thank you, John & Aggie Noriega Justin & Catherine Haury hauryfamilyfunds@gmail.com

Just wanted to let you all know that I am applying for a position as a hospice minister and I ask for your prayers at this time. I feel the Lord calling me to use my degree and work with others who need this type of ministry. Onward & Upward!

This may not be the place for this, but I feel the need to share it. Our son-in-law, Justin Haury, was just diagnosed with Familial Amyloidosis. This is a genetic disease which can be fatal. It runs in his family. His mother, grandmother, some aunts & uncles passed from this. It is possible that my grandchildren may have this. His brother, Jared Haury, has to now be tested - he also has 2 children. This is a very trying time for all the families, especially for Sydney, the oldest daughter who will be 15 in September. She was told last week and she saw what this disease did to her grandmother and will worry about her dad. She hasn't really spoken to anyone - she is processing it in her way at the moment. The other granddaughter, Camryn is 6 and Jacob, the grandson is 3. Please cover the families in prayer. We have also started a fundraiser for the family as we anticipate some HUGE medical expenses now and in the near future. If you find it in your heart to contribute, you can do so using PayPal and use this email: hauryfamilyfunds@gmail.com. I, John, will be willing to answer any questions. Feel free to message me. We, the family, would greatly appreciate any financial contributions and prayers. Onward & Upward! Thank you, John & Aggie Noriega

Been out riding my Harley and loving it! Have been to the dentist for my first checkup since my AVR. Had to pre-medicate with antibiotics, but all went well. Good checkup - no cavities and no bad news. Now, we can get ready for my new partials. I was going to have this done before I knew I need surgery. Onward & Upward!

I haven't posted in quite a while. I read with enjoyment the posts here and feel blessed to be able to do so. It has been just over 30 weeks from post-op and I am more excited each day as I continue to breathe. Since my surgery on October 17, 2014 I have never felt better. I am exercising regularly mostly cardio! My weight has gone from 220 to 195 and still dropping. The "worst" part of dropping the pounds is that I've had to use my 38 waist jeans as my "painting jeans." I've purchased 3 new belts over the past few months. My size 36 waist jeans are just a bit too big. I am at that in-between size and still don't fit into a size 34, BUT I will soon be there and will work to see that waist line continue to decrease. Been back on the Harley on a regular basis and enjoying the ride! My last ride we did over 140 miles and it was awesome! My wife, Aggie, & I have been working on our bucket lists. We've been on a few trips to check out whether or not I can handle high altitudes. I CAN & I HAVE! I've returned to Six Flags and ridden a few roller coasters. Yippee! Just last week we drove down to Hollywood to see Tony Bennett perform at the Hollywood Bowl with Lady Gaga. What a great show! Mr. Bennett has been on my list for 60+ years! It was an early Father's Day/birthday gift from my dear wife. In June going to see Eddie Money in Santa Cruz, CA. We went to grammar school together (he was in my brother's class). Haven't seen him in 50+ years! Then for our 48th wedding anniversary we're heading to Victoria, BC & Galliano Island in September with my brother-in-law & sister-in-law. After that heading to Las Vegas in October to see Elton John. Starting to plan some trips for 2016 as well. We both figured after my surgery that we need to stop and smell the roses. Life is shorter than we imagine. It's time to do the things you only think or dream about. As I stated above - I am feeling better and enjoying life as best as able. So, I say to all of you past, present and future - JUST DO IT! Enjoy yourselves to the best of your ability - LIFE IS GRAND! So, Onward & Upward!

Today marks 6 months to the day of my OVR. My energy is returning...I have been out riding my Harley...exercising regularly...enjoying life...taking trips and planning future trips. My wife has setup a trip to the Hollywood Bowl to see Tony Bennett (one of my all-time favorite performers & an item on my bucket list to cross off)...Going to Victoria, B.C. In September. My blood pressure has returned to a normal reading today after my exercising and cool down is it was 100/62 a I haven't seen that in a long time. Working on the diabetes....it's been a roller coaster for a while, but getting back to normal. Doctor changed my regimen and insulin - so working on it. I've also lost a few pounds...finally broke the 200 barrier on the scale. All in all I am feeling better and enjoying life as well as I can. Even my wife has stated that she can see my energy has changed. Today being the 6 month anniversary of my surgery I had this show up on my email as the verse of the day and found it apropos to this anniversary ---> "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him." James 1:12 Thinking of all of you have had your surgeries and those still waiting...I pray for you every day and wish you the very best in recovery and life. We are here to share a message of hope and that life can still be lived to the fullest. God bless you all. Getting ready to hop on the Harley and enjoy the day that the Lord has given. Onward & Upward!!!

Hi fellow heart travelers...just took my first long distance trip since AVR...SITTING IN Seattle visiting my wonderful brother-in-law and sister-in-law. Weather is beautiful which is a surprise for this area. Just relaxing and enjoying being away from home! I am so grateful that I can do this without feeling winded and tired. It's been just over 18 weeks and I am feeling much better. My BP is finally under control - took a while! Now we're working on glucose - doctor has changed my regimen and it's slowly getting better. Need to work on these things in order to enjoy the next 20-25 years. So, for all of you who are in the recuperation stage, like me, and those who will soon be - just let everything take its course, follow the doctor's orders and don't do anything to aggravate your condition. ALL WILL GET BETTER! This piece of advice is from a very impatient patient. Have a great one everyone, enjoy life as it happens and remember that I keep you all in my daily prayers! A verse for today: Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. (‭Psalms‬ ‭51‬:‭10‬ NLT)