Charla's Guestbook

Hi Charla, just wanted to say I know how you must feel with 2 days to go. I had a mitral valve repair and aortic valve replacement. We're all different, of course, but I was astonished to find that the operation (full cut) and recovery weren't nearly as bad as I expected. Certainly there were a few bumps along the way, but my pre-op imagination was WAY off course of the reality. And in case you don't know, the mortality rate for this procedure is between 1 and 2 percent--and many thousands of these procedures are done every year. (The patients in that 1-2 percent invariably have other health problems and/or advanced age.) Here's a tip that helped me incredibly: a couple of days before my operation, I switched from thinking, "This is happening to ME!" to (don't laugh) talking to my heart. I said, "You've been a faithful friend all my life and always helped me when I needed it. Now it's you who needs help and I'm getting it for you. I won't let you down." That switched me from feeling weak and vulnerable to feeling very strong and powerful--in charge! God bless, Charla, you're going to do just fine. Artie

Hi Charla! I have recently had a cardiac ablation and learned my tricuspid valve is quite leaky. I was trying to learn more and saw you are near me. I am from Yukon. Best of luck with your procedure! Really just wanted to introduce myself and say hi. This heart stuff is scary. Lolly from Yukon, Ok.

Charla, I wanted to say hi and wish you well. I spend a fair amount of time in Oklahoma because my son and 2 grandchildren live there. In fact I am recovering from my surgery 5 weeks ago and am looking so forward to being healthy enough to go back there this December. - Welcome to this site - I hope it comforts you as much as it did me.....

Charla, Welcome to the community...Thoughts and prayers being sent your way. Praying for surgeons and nurses, that you will get good care and bounce back quickly.