Carolyn's Guestbook

To answer David's question, no I did not get the Maze procedure because I had not experienced any afib prior to surgery. But if I ever start up with afib again, I will definitely look into getting that done.

Hi Carolyn, My story is the same as yours. I'm 41 and just had my mitral valve repair 4 weeks ago; same place, same surgeon and same cardiologist. I'm sure you already know, but you are in very good hands. The medical staff at Northwestern is amazing. I go for my follow-up next week at NW. I'm feeling well! Best of luck to you on your upcoming surgery and recovery. You will do very well!

I hope you feel well. It’s over! Yay! I had mine 4/5/2017. Kind of ember those dates 😆. God bless and do what they tell you. You’ll be home soon.

Hi Carolyn, I had mitral valve repair in March 2020 (age 48). I see you had your surgery today and I just wanted to say I hope you are doing well and to give some advice. Sleep as much as you can in the first few weeks. Walk as much as you can tolerate every day. In the beginning that may be just walking to the bathroom a few times a day. You may develop some AFib after you get home which is pretty common so if that happens don't panic. Just be sure to let your doctor know right away if that happens. I had afib for 3 weeks after surgery and was worried I would have it forever, but with meds and time it has resolved. I mention it because nobody warned me and I was surprised and upset at the time. Please do not get discouraged on days you may not feel well, but stay positive that with every passing week you will be closer to feeling normal. It's been 8 months since my surgery and I didn't start feeling normal until about 6 months. But I noticed small improvements all the time, and my final hurdle was being able to take a deep breath when swimming. It seemed like forever but now I can do it. Just take it one day at a time. You will get there! Best of luck!

Hi Carolyn I had mitral valve repair 2 years ago. I went home in 3 days and back to work in 2 months. I have a job requiring me to stand on my feet and walk alot. I did 36 cardiac rehab visits and feel great. You got this! Don' t worry.

Hi Carolyn, I knew I had a murmur all my life (74) but over the past year I had two echo's done and they confirmed severe mitral valve regurgitation. On top of that, it was just discovered two weeks ago that I have some nearly blocked arteries and now I need 3-4 bypasses. I chose Dr. Sabat Hamish from Hartford Hospital who has a fine reputation for both surgeries I need. On top of all that worry is the spiking of Covid-19 across Connecticut and Rhode Island where I live. By the time you read this you will have had your surgery and be on the road to recovery. Congratulations on your bravery and I hope 2021 is a fantastic year for you.

It’s in the rear view mirror at last !! No more wondering is this the appointment they tell me I need surgery or can I wait a bit longer. The question was answered and you just started the journey to better health. All the best to you. As a fellow “former mitral valve resurger”, I say welcome to the club.

You are with an excellent doctor and a superb facility you will do great. Just rest, walk, keep hydrating and repeat. You will be so happy you had this done. In time you will feel like new!!!! Best wishes!