Patty's Journal

Yesterday I completed the Cardiac Rehab program at IRMC. I know that many question the program at times for various reasons. I encourage everyone who has had cardiac surgery or an event to take advantage of this opportunity for optimal results! I am active and exercise regularly. I found the beginning sessions pretty easy. As I progressed and increased the intensity, I gained strength that I honestly did not realize I had lost. An extra bonus was the comradery with other patients. I was able to offer encouragement to new patients or those who struggled some with exercise. I will miss the outstanding cardiac Rehab team and my heart buddies😍 I am forever grateful to be making a full recovery❤️❤️

Last week I was signed off of home care and told that I was excellent. Over the weekend I walked almost 2 miles around my neighborhood. My oxygen level was at 98/99 when checked on Friday. I just hope this is encouraging to those who are waiting for surgery. I'll start cardio rehab next week, hoping to build a little more stamina and muscle to fill my petite frame❤️ I wonder if anyone experienced sleep issues? Last night was good, but for a few nights I felt like I was back on the crazy hospital sleep schedule as I woke at 4 took awhile to fall back to sleep and the awake at 6:30. No real reason for waking, just remembering the vitals check and early am X-ray tech before the medical staff did their routine. I am so happy to be doing well and wish the same for those who have surgery scheduled soon.

At three weeks out, I am feeling good and looking forward to beginning the rehab program at the hospital. I have been walking each day and doing some strengthening exercises with the therapist who comes 3 days/week.. I am basically released from the surgeon and will see my cardiologist this week. At this point, I really do not have pain, just some minimal discomfort, particularly when tired. My energy is decent although I did take a nap in my chair the past two days. I hope that is encouraging to those waiting surgery! My oxygen is at 98/99 indicating the repair and new valve are working well.

Two weeks post-op I walked @ 1/4 mi to the beach and back. The surgery is scary, but a positive attitude will get you through the first days as you look for a good recovery 😍 Let your support system be there for you. I also found that letting the nurses and aides know me as a person created empathy. I was fortunate to have a kind and professional staff who cared!

This is day 9 post surgery. I really do not have pain. The surgery was successful and I had the best of care at The Heart Center at Indian River Medical Center with Dr. Mark Malias and the SICU and entire cardiology team. I am home and enjoying pampering from my husband,friends,and family. Recovery seems to be going well with less anxiety😍