Mindy Currence posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Cheryl,
So glad to hear you are feeling better! I hope you had a great Christmas morning! Life here is good. I have had some wound issues, no infection, just coming open. This is a side effect from tissue damage post radiation treatments at the age of 11. The surgeon mentioned this could be a complication prior to surgery and it seems he knew his stuff. I am thankful it is not infected and fortunately, I feel pretty good. Doing more and more every day. I hope you are able to get your coumadin figured out, I know my levels are all over the place...can be quite frustrating! :|
Cheryl Shute Walter Merry Christmas to you, Mindy! Life here is also good. I've had to take it slow. Had some a fib right after I got home. I have also had a bit of a problem ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Merry Christmas to you, Mindy! Life here is also good. I've had to take it slow. Had some a fib right after I got home. I have also had a bit of a problem with my coumadin level. Just had my dose increased. Also let myself get very dehydrated, and all I did was sleep for a couple of days. But things seem to be back in track. Glad to hear things are getting for you and that your wounds did not get infected. That's the last thing you need. My sternum seems to be healing very well, and I'm thankful I haven't had near as much pain as I expected. Are you getting any home health care? I have a nurse come in once or twice a week, and that has been very reassuring. I go back to see my surgeon for the first time on Monday. I really just want to get my energy level back.
Keeping you in my prayers.
By the way, in addition to being moo buddies now, we are COWGIRLS!
Sophia Ridley Good to hear that you're both through some post surgery issues. Here's to a smoother recovery going forward!
Cheryl Shute Walter Sophia, I hope your a fib problems have settled down now. None of our health problems were exactly the same, so we will all recover differently. Happy New ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Sophia, I hope your a fib problems have settled down now. None of our health problems were exactly the same, so we will all recover differently. Happy New Year to you all! I am so glad my surgery is finally behind me and am so excited looking forward to 2016!
On December 12, 2015...
Mindy Currence posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Cheryl,
So sorry it has taken me so long to get a note to you. It sounds as though you had a rough go of it! I am so sorry. While my surgery went well, and I was home by Dec. 7th, I really struggled with nausea the first few days which made me a not so happy or pleasant person. We determined it was the pain medicine, so now I am only on ibuprofen and I am doing 100% better! How are you feeling? I am sorry you had to have a pacemaker, I am sure that added to the soreness quite a bit.
Have they been able to get your coumadin levels right? Mine was way too high on Tuesday, but I go back this Tuesday when I see Dr. Rhinehart. Who is your cardiologist? Do you go to the heart clinic at PHR on the Suite 300 of the heart center? Maybe I will get to see you! It would be neat to finally meet you! I hope you are feeling better and I will send prayers your way!
Mindy
Cheryl Shute Walter So glad to finally hear from you, Mindy. I was so worried about you. Only 3 days in the hospital? Good to hear that things have settled down for you. I have ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter So glad to finally hear from you, Mindy. I was so worried about you. Only 3 days in the hospital? Good to hear that things have settled down for you. I have improved so much since being home the last two days. I have signed up for home health care to get my coumadin levels taken. Haven't had any problems with that yet. The hospital had a hard time getting it level, which kept me there 2 more days. The pain isn't as bad as I thought it would be. I had really psyched myself out prior to surgery. Most of the pain was from the pacemaker.
My cardiologist is Barry Feldman, at Parkridge, my pacemaker was put in by his wife/partner Jennifer Feldman. My surgeon was Reid Tribble in Suite 300 at Palmetto Health Heart. I don't go back to see him until 12/28.
I see you live in Lexington. I had an antique shop in the Old Mill, but closed it in May. Did you ever stop in there? It was called Lake Murray Treasures, and I specialized in antique and vintage clothing, accessories and jewelry.
Sending prayers for your continued recovery!
On November 29, 2015...
Enrique K posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Dear Cheryl, Good vibes and thoughts are heading your way! Hoping all goes well with your upcoming surgery.
Cheryl Shute Walter Thanks Enrique! Read your journal and sounds like you are well on your way to a healthier life. So happy for you.
On November 29, 2015...
Mindy Currence posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Cheryl, I do not know how I missed you were having surgery here in Columbia! I will be across town one day later with Dr. Yarborough at Providence. I wanted you to know I am thinking of you and sending prayers your way. Best wishes for a speedy recovery!
Cheryl Shute Walter Hi Mindy! The list shows that you and I are both having our surgeries on Wednesday, 12/2. I have heard good things about Dr. Yarborough and know you are in ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Hi Mindy! The list shows that you and I are both having our surgeries on Wednesday, 12/2. I have heard good things about Dr. Yarborough and know you are in good hands at Providence. My surgery will be done by Dr. Tribble at Palmetto Heart. I will also keep you in my prayers and check with you as soon as I am able after our surgeries!
On November 3, 2015...
Lynn Jorgeson posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Hi Cheryl,
I just caught your note and wanted to wish you all the best with your surgery. I am waiting to hear about my own diagnosis, still kind of in denial.
Lynn Jorgeson
Cheryl Shute Walter Thank you Lynn. Don't be afraid for yourself. Since hearing of my diagnosis, I have spoken with so many people who have gone through similar diagnoses and ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Thank you Lynn. Don't be afraid for yourself. Since hearing of my diagnosis, I have spoken with so many people who have gone through similar diagnoses and surgeries. Please keep in touch and let me know how you are doing. :)
On February 7, 2014...
Judi Butler posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Cheryl -
The waiting can be hard and, yet, the longer you are waiting the better medical procedures become. I had to wait for either critical numbers for my bicuspid aortic valve tests or symptoms. Both came about the same time although the symptom was only the feeling of not being refreshed when I finished my walking.
You need to be comfortable about where you are going for the surgery, too. You are doing the right things for now.
Cheryl Shute Walter Judi,
I know what you mean about the waiting. It feels like I'm putting my life on hold. Yet you are right about improvements in technology and procedures ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Judi,
I know what you mean about the waiting. It feels like I'm putting my life on hold. Yet you are right about improvements in technology and procedures improving over time. This additional reprieve will hopefully give me the time to get this extra weight off, and to work on improving my new shop. I realize there will always be things I want to get done before this surgery, but my priority is staying alive. Thanks for your comments!
On February 6, 2014...
Sidney Nash posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Hey Cheryl!
I'm used to seeing people from NY and California, but glad to see another Columbian!
I had my valve surgery at Duke on October 3rd. I went through the process of determining who to see and what to do. It was overwhelming, but it turned out great. If you would like to discuss anything ( I had bicuspid also) please feel free to call me or email me. Good luck with everything.
Cheryl Shute Walter Hi Sidney! Thanks for your comments. Glad everything went well for you.
Are you in Columbia now? If so, I was just wondering why you went to Duke instead ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Hi Sidney! Thanks for your comments. Glad everything went well for you.
Are you in Columbia now? If so, I was just wondering why you went to Duke instead of Palmetto Heart Hospital or Providence, etc. Feel free to email me at lakemurraygirl@earthlink.com.
On February 6, 2014...
Jim Jones posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Cheryl
So pleased you had a chance to check in with your doctor. Now you can live your life. The very best to you in the months ahead. I hope you have a wonderful year. All the best!
Cheryl Shute Walter Thanks Jim! While I know I will still need the surgery, knowing it is not imminent has taken a great burden off of me. As you know, I recently opened my own ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Thanks Jim! While I know I will still need the surgery, knowing it is not imminent has taken a great burden off of me. As you know, I recently opened my own shop, and it has been such a success. This gives me more time to develop it and establish a good, regular clientele before being out of commission for a while. Life is good. I hope you are also doing well and getting on with LIVING the rest of your life!
On January 20, 2014...
Dora Chavira posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Dear Cheryl, I think I know how you are feeling. I meet with my surgeon 1/27, and surgery is 2/13. I too have moments of being anxious then try to focus on recovery, my family, grandchildren, future grandchildren, my daughter's May wedding and that helps me want to get this over with and on with my life. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Cheryl Shute Walter Dora, I hope the meeting with your surgeon went well, and that all the preparations are being made for your surgery on 2/13. I have that date on my calendar ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Dora, I hope the meeting with your surgeon went well, and that all the preparations are being made for your surgery on 2/13. I have that date on my calendar to check on how you are doing. I will keep you in my prayers!
On January 10, 2014...
Kevin Woodard posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Cheryl,
Just wanted to say welcome to HVJ. This is a great site to get advice and questions answered. It helped me so much to be able to talk with people in similar situations and ask questions. Everyone on this site is more than happy to help you in everyway. Whether you have pre-op or post-op questions. Just ask!
I had my surgery on Dec 16 and thankfully all went well for me. I too had no symptoms but trusted the surgeons opinions and knew I needed to have surgery before anymore damage was done to my heart. I believe it is best to do it sooner rather than later and get on with you life.
I was very anxious before surgery and just wanted it all to be over so I could move on. Yes there will be a lot of things you have to do to prepare before but staying busy helps you to not think about it some much. However, make sure you stay positive and take care of yourself leading up. I hope your appointments go well and wish you all the best on your journey.
Cheryl Shute Walter Hi Kevin, thanks so much for your comments. I'm glad your surgery is over with and everything went well. I have no doubt that it will be the same for me. I, too, just wish it was over.
On January 4, 2014...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Cheryl,
Good luck with your surgical team. I also felt like I really didn't have any symptons, but I now realize I did. You can read my journal where I have listed helpful hints on the Nov. 22 journal.
It is 3 months since I've had my ascending aortic anuersym repaired. the surgeon decided not to replace my aortic valve since he said fixing the AA would make my valve work better---he was right. I am not out of breath anymore when I climb stairs or swim laps.
Also recovery is faster than I thought it would be. They get you up and moving. You will be fine. I hope this helps.
Cheryl Shute Walter Thanks for your support, Carol. I'll read your journal. I'm glad to use any help I can get, and am so glad I found this site. Everyone has been so supportive ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Thanks for your support, Carol. I'll read your journal. I'm glad to use any help I can get, and am so glad I found this site. Everyone has been so supportive of each other. Best wishes for your continued recovery!
On January 4, 2014...
Jim Jones posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Hey Cheryl:
As you know from many HVJ journals you are like so many - no symptoms but indications for surgery. I'd encourage you to take the long view. By having surgery you are setting yourself up long term for the best life possible. So many HVJs have, post-surgery, made that point.
BTW, I have found recovery to go pretty quickly with weekly improvements.
I hope you have a productive meeting with your surgical team and come up with the best decision for you.
Cheryl Shute Walter Jim, it is very encouraging to hear your recovery is going pretty quickly. I have already met with my surgical team twice, and each time they postponed my ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Jim, it is very encouraging to hear your recovery is going pretty quickly. I have already met with my surgical team twice, and each time they postponed my surgery 6 months. This time will probably be it. I really need to get this done so that I can get on with living the rest of my life! Wishing you and your family a happy New Year also!
On January 4, 2014...
Susan Smith posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Like you Cheryl I have BAV and have had some out of breath episodes and some chest pain (not sure if heart of heartburn), but no fainting or dizziness, but find that I am classified as severe. I am in the weight loss mode per Dr. instructions and so I am 37 down with 13 more to go to get to what he wanted. I plan on making goal by March 7th - D day (doctor day) . I believe that timing is a factor and as we all do, we must trust our Cardio dr. and his judgment call. You will do just fine. Keep us all posted on your progress.
Cheryl Shute Walter Susan, thanks for your encouragement! I could use to lose at least 50 lbs. myself (which I gained after I quit smoking - doctor's orders), but have not been ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Susan, thanks for your encouragement! I could use to lose at least 50 lbs. myself (which I gained after I quit smoking - doctor's orders), but have not been able to. I've had no such instructions from my doctors to do so. I was only put on Lipitor (?). Great job on losing your weight! If you can do it, then maybe so can I. With only 4 weeks to D Day, every little bit will help.
On January 3, 2014...
Judi Butler posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Hi Cheryl -
I know what you mean about asymptomatic and wondering why? But I was reminded that it has to be repaired at the right time so we can be the best we want to be and have the best valve. I am aware that there are new techniques and each day procedures are getting better and better. Keep the course. And the plan to keep busy is good. God helps us give Him the stress and reminds us that He is in control. Blessings, Judi
Cheryl Shute Walter Thank you, Judi ! I just wish I was eligible for the VRS through the femural artery, Unfortunately, this isn't approved in the U.S. yet for people my age. ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Thank you, Judi ! I just wish I was eligible for the VRS through the femural artery, Unfortunately, this isn't approved in the U.S. yet for people my age. It sure would be a lot easier to recover from. But I'm hanging in there. Yes, He is in control.
Best wishes for your continued recovery.
On December 17, 2013...
Judi Butler posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Welcome Cheryl -
I am a newbie too. But feel a part of this community. And it has been helpful. I am sorry about your Mom's passing. I miss mine. I believe when we are facing 'uncertain times' we do miss our Moms.
I, too, was asymptomatic and even now since my surgeon told me not to exercise find my fatigue is gone. He calls me atypical. So join the party. I am in the severe category. What is your valve measurement?
Cheryl Shute Walter Hi Judi. I felt a very warm welcome from some "regulars" when I joined this week, and have been reading several journals for a while now.
Cheryl Shute Walter Hi Judi. I felt a very warm welcome from some "regulars" when I joined this week, and have been reading several journals for a while now.
Even though I am overweight, I still feel physically strong. After my annual echo last year, my cardiologist told me that my valve measurement was not at the point where we needed to consider getting ready for the surgery. I can't remember what that measurement is right now. It hasn't changed in the year since, thankfully. In February I'll find out more.
Do you have your surgery scheduled yet?
On December 17, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Hey Cheryl
Welcome! I see you have met Ernie and Susan. They are both "good people". I am sorry for the loss of your mother. And congratulations on your new store. I hope you find this community as helpful and warm as I have. I had mitral valve repair on 11/05 in NYC at Mt. Sinai. If you want some fun reading please check out my journal. Folks on this site were incredibly helpful when I had questions and have been supportive throughout. Welcome aboard!
Cheryl Shute Walter Hi Jim. You sound like a character :v I'll check out your journal. Glad you also found these journals and this site useful. My doctors didn't tell me about ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Hi Jim. You sound like a character :v I'll check out your journal. Glad you also found these journals and this site useful. My doctors didn't tell me about it, but I found it on Facebook. Best wishes for your continued recovery!
On December 17, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Yay, I beat Jim Jones again to welcome you to the website.
Plenty of people have been through this, so you have plenty of journals to read to answer questions you may have. I learned so much from this website pre-operation. Come time for surgery I was plenty prepared and feeling confident for a successful surgery.
Cheryl Shute Walter Thanks Ernie! I've been reading about a half dozen journals, and even though I haven't found anyone with my specific medical situation, the journals have ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Thanks Ernie! I've been reading about a half dozen journals, and even though I haven't found anyone with my specific medical situation, the journals have been plenty helpful in preparing me for all kinds of post heart surgery situations. How long has it been since your surgery?
On December 17, 2013...
Susan Smith posted a note for Cheryl Shute that says:
Cheryl, welcome to the community. We are all on the same path to have a good quality of life. I'm in the pre-op waiting period. Glad to hear you have a surgery date. You will do fine. Keep us all posted.
Cheryl Shute Walter Hi Susan, thanks for your good wishes. I don't really have a surgery date yet, just another (3rd meeting) with the valve clinic doctors. Finding and reading ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Hi Susan, thanks for your good wishes. I don't really have a surgery date yet, just another (3rd meeting) with the valve clinic doctors. Finding and reading some of these journals have really helped. Do you have any estimated time period for your surgery yet?
Uploading your photo!
So glad to hear you are feeling better! I hope you had a great Christmas morning! Life here is good. I have had some wound issues, no infection, just coming open. This is a side effect from tissue damage post radiation treatments at the age of 11. The surgeon mentioned this could be a complication prior to surgery and it seems he knew his stuff. I am thankful it is not infected and fortunately, I feel pretty good. Doing more and more every day. I hope you are able to get your coumadin figured out, I know my levels are all over the place...can be quite frustrating! :|
Know I am thinking about you,
Your moo buddy :)
Keeping you in my prayers.
By the way, in addition to being moo buddies now, we are COWGIRLS!