Mary Ann's Posts

My son suggested I write a note following my three year check up. I saw my cardiologist this week and Dr Faust declared me in good shape. He asked what I have been doing and I said, "Living my life." I rarely ever think of the surgery. One scar from the robotic incision is still bright pink but the others have faded. The numb breast is still numb. One of those things one just has to live with. Trade offs in life. We spent three weeks in England last fall and I was able to go out and about every day. Lots of walking. I felt fine. My valve is working good. Last year I questioned the necessity of a yearly echogram and this year did not have one. I am trying to do my part in saving medicare dollars. To all who are just beginning their journey, I send my best wishes and hopes that your results will be as good as mine. I am ever so grateful.

He said the echogram revealed a perfect heart. The trip to Rochester and the echo took several hours. The visit with Dr Suri took three minutes. I guess that is good. No severe complications to discuss. No meds. I am feeling fine. From now on I will do follow ups with my Sioux Falls cardiologist. I forgot to ask Dr Suri for a warranty. The road to Rochester takes us east. As a celebration of a good outcome after a difficult year, we are continuing east to see some of New England. I close by wishing all my friends, family and fellow journalist a happy heart. Mary Ann

One year ago today I was in St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester MN having my heart sliced open. I am trying to recall the day but am missing lots of pieces. Gene won't help me as he wants no part of recalling that day. We celebrated the anniv. of the day by taking a long walk, getting high on tulips, apple blossoms, leafing trees and green green grass. Tonight we went to a beautiful chorale concert and topped the evening with strawberry shortcake. It has been quite the year but I believe I have fully recovered. We just came back from a three week tour of visiting family and friends and I was up to all of it. By now my robotic scars are fading and my hair is thick again. My right breast is still numb and expect it will remain so. There is a sore spot on the right side of my sternum that doesn't go away. I am on no heart medications and am feeling fine. I will go back to Rochester on June 9th for a one year check up. I expect it will only be a routine. Just thought I should check in and say how great it is to be a year out and feeling so well. My best wishes to all the journal writers in whatever stage they are in. This has been a great source of love and support.