Uncle Rick and aunty Pat š« posted a note for Colette that says:
šColette. Soo soo glad all is going so well. We continue to pray that it continues. Still try not to over due it. š we sure miss seeing you. Take care.
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Aunty pat and uncle Rick posted a note for Colette that says:
O my goodness this is all great news
You are such a trouper. We think of you every day and pray for you to get stronger and back to normal.
Love you lots
Colette McDiarmid Thanks for the message. Sure wouldn't have gotten through it without you guys. Thinking of you guys lots right now. Hope to see you all soon.
Love Col
On September 5, 2014...
Heather Vegh posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi Colette, Nice to hear from you. I am glad you are doing well. I know you are missed here at work. I have heard rumblings in the corridors along the lines, "if Colette was here, I could get you everything you need" (Rod/Wayne .. lol!), Or requests like, "can you send me Colette's home email address?". Enjoy the strength coming back and the rest of the path to recovery. Talk to you soon. :)
Colette McDiarmid Awe thanks Heather. It's nice to be missed and to hear from you guys now and then. Definitely picks up my day. Hope to see you all soon. :)
On September 5, 2014...
Shelina posted a note for Colette that says:
Great to hear your feeling stronger and enjoying the walking.
I would love to plan another walk with you now that things seem to be getting into some semblance of order around here. lol
Mia (Mary) posted a note for Colette that says:
Colette, Do not let this get you down. We know egger will.be little bumps in the road. You have made it over the big one!
Enjoy your naps. I need to make sure I get mine in. I hope to start tehab in another two weeks.
I just feel.it will be nice having someone recording your ever move. I do.a lot witj aqua fitness and am anxious to get back in my routine.
Judy posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi Colette ... congrats on starting rehab. you sound like you are doing great.
I had my surgery about a month before you.
I am, like you, one of the few Canadians on this website. In fact, we live not that far apart.
would you be interested in meeting in Abbotsford for coffee and chat one day before or after your rehab ??
Colette McDiarmid Sure Judy. I would be happy to meet with you. Maybe the Tim Horton's at Sumas exit on Tuesday next week? Around 9:45
Colette
On August 8, 2014...
Trish Alsip posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi Colette,
It was great to run into you the other day. You look so good! So glad to hear about your progress. One day at a time. You are amazing and have come so far so keep up the hard work as you'll be 100% in no time. Miss you here at work:)
Colette McDiarmid It was so nice to see you too. I hope you enjoy the camping this summer. The Oregon Coast is soooooo nice.
I am missing everyone at work. Might have to ... Read more
Colette McDiarmid It was so nice to see you too. I hope you enjoy the camping this summer. The Oregon Coast is soooooo nice.
I am missing everyone at work. Might have to stop by for lunch.
Have a great time camping.
Colette
On August 8, 2014...
Mary (mia) posted a note for Colette that says:
Good morning heart sister Colette. My name is (Mary) Mia. I had a mitral valve stenosis.y procedure was done 7/29/14.
I came homw on the 7th! Amazing how good home sweet home is!
Everyday my strength improves. Our community of heart brothers and sisters are amazing. I thank God evetyday for eacj snd everyone of them.
The post about rehab is helpful. What day was your surgery?
Have a wonderful day. Would love to keep in touch! Sending butterfly kisses and eskimo hugs!
Colette McDiarmid Hi Mia,
I had my surgery on May 21st, 2014 open heart and just started physical rehab two weeks ago. At the end of July. I was a little impatient but I ... Read more
Colette McDiarmid Hi Mia,
I had my surgery on May 21st, 2014 open heart and just started physical rehab two weeks ago. At the end of July. I was a little impatient but I realize now that you have to let your sternum heal well before starting. The clicking/rubbing and sternum pain were gone before I started and the exercise specialist has modified the weight training to ensure it continues to heal.
Wish you all the luck. And I agree the best part of all of this is coming home.
Colette
On July 21, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Colette that says:
Colette- I am happy to read of your continued progress since your surgery and appreciate the input you have had from Family, Friends and especially your Husband.
I am fortunate to have married as wonderful a Man as yourself and I know how important to my recovery He will be as he has been so supportive every step of the way. I am wondering if you two have any "pointers" to give us?! I am scheduled still for Aug. 20th and will be very glad the wait is over.
Continued progress in your recovery and it won't be long before you are kayaking with your Family! (I know that is one of the things I have missed most and am looking forward to as well!
Take care-
I am wishing you well for your August 20th appointment. Thanks for writing in my Journal. Your fortunate to have a supportive husband, I couldn't ... Read more
I am wishing you well for your August 20th appointment. Thanks for writing in my Journal. Your fortunate to have a supportive husband, I couldn't have gotten thru this without mine. I do have a few tips that I hope may help you out.
-Tip number one...order the book....was an easy read and so very helpful.
- Next my husband stayed close to the hospital in the next town and was able to commute easily. He arranged to take a few weeks off from work right after the surgery. Having him there everyday was vital emotionally and physically.
-After 9 days and we knew I wasn't coming home right away I sent him home for a break. Your hubby will need lots of that.
-Each night while I was in the hospital he made sure I had some crackers and blueberries to eat during the night as I was nauseous on an empty stomach.
-I swelled up from the water retention during and for days after the surgery. You should ensure you have large loose pj's, undies and a larger bra size in case of the swelling. And really monitor and inquire about how much liquid you should be taking a day. I was taking in far too much which made the water retention worse.
-He bought me a electric recliner chair for home which I slept in for a number of days. Even if your able to borrow one it is totally worth it.
-You should get a heating pad, small one to help with any back pain.
-Prior to going for surgery I did ask my parents for a little help especially once my husband headed back to work. They came and cleaned my house a few times so he would at least come home to a tidy home with dinner made.
-You have to remember that your husband will be quite stressed about this ordeal so any ways you can ease the stress is helpful.
- I was a little surprised at how long the recovery is as I thought I was fairly young for this procedure. But you have to have patience.
-Take every opportunity for education and physical rehab they offer. There is so much to learn with food, emotions, fitness. And working in a cardio exercise program that is closely monitored is really important in getting back to a healthy life. Not only do you feel safer working out under the trained eye but you also are able to push yourself farther than trying to do it alone.
-Go for walks early in the morning before the heat kicks in.
Wow I have lots to write about.....sorry if I am rambling on.
Please let me know if you have any questions and we wish you both lots of luck.
Colette
On June 20, 2014...
Maureen posted a note for Colette that says:
Colette,
You are rockin' this girl!! So proud of you. You'll be back to work before you know it...be careful what you wish for...lol! Miss you lots! Hope to see you again soon.
Colette McDiarmid So nice to see you today. Now tell me the truth...you didn't really fall of your bike did you???
On June 19, 2014...
Louise posted a note for Colette that says:
It's so great to hear you are doing well Collette. I honked at you the other day while you were walking. You look fab.
Colette McDiarmid Louise!!! I was trying to figure out who was honking at me :) So YOU have the beautiful black vehicle.
On June 19, 2014...
Terri Krug posted a note for Colette that says:
Oh wow, you have been busy!! Good for you Colette, you seem to be on the mend and making strides! I really enjoyed your visit, it was such a nice surprise, and can't wait to come visit you:)
Colette McDiarmid Thanks Terri, I hope to stop by next week sometime. I will keep you posted so that I can catch up :)
On June 12, 2014...
Caryl posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi Colette, glad to hear that your getting better. Sorry we weren't able to visit this past weekend. Need more days off, less work days! Sally arrives on Saturday from the north, she will be seeing a cardiologist this Monday in Surrey, I've taken this week off to take her where ever she needs to be or do. Say hi to Craig and Duncan, and wish Craig a Happy Father's Day. Will call you, hopefully I can take Sally to visit.
Colette McDiarmid Hi Caryl,
So nice to hear from you. I hope Sally's appointment went well. We will certainly have to get together soon. I am recovering well just slow. Give us a call when you get a chance. Love Col
On June 12, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Colette that says:
Hello Colette. Good to read you are making progress and that day to day you grow stronger and healthier.
You responded to me awhile back when I was on my way for a consult.
Thank you.
It went well. Have a great surgeon with a sense of humor at my many questions
and had no trouble getting answers. I am scheduled for surgery on Aug. 20th. and can't wait to be going down the path of recovery.
Continue to get well!
Deb Bialecki posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi Colette!
Glad to hear you are home and doing better. I had my surgery on May 22 and was discharged on May 27 --- almost 2 weeks since my valve repair.
Still have good days and bad - but mostly good. The pain is subsiding more each day and getting off the prescription pain meds have made me more coherent than I was before.
I'm still napping during the day and a day like yesterday (2 dr appts) will still wear me out.
Here's hoping every day is better and better for you. Love the pictures - especially you and your son.
Sue S. posted a note for Colette that says:
All the very best to you Colette. My op was a year ago ( Dr. Verma at St. Mike's -Toronto) and I am 100 % now. Amazing, isn't it! Take care....day by day, stronger & stronger! You will be enjoying the summer days outdoors soon. Regards from the east.....I am in Montreal now, Grand Prix weekend. Life is great! Thanks to Adam Pick for letting us share ! Cheers!
Colette McDiarmid Thanks for sharing. Good to hear your 100%. Hope the Grand Prix was great.
On June 4, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Colette that says:
Hello Colette. I just finished reading your journal and hope this posting finds you getting stronger and feeling healthier! I want to thank you for sharing your experiences as well as your husband for helping out when you were unable.
I will be heading for my consult with surgeon tomorrow and it has helped to read your journal as I now have ideas on the questions I can ask the surgeon that I wouldn't have come up with had I not read your journals. Continued uphill climbing and good wishes to you and your Family who loves you so much.
I will take the strength you have shown and hitchhike off of it!
Colette McDiarmid Hope you had a good consult. Surgeons can be a little brief during their visits but mine was an excellent surgeon and every new doctor or cardiologist has ... Read more
Colette McDiarmid Hope you had a good consult. Surgeons can be a little brief during their visits but mine was an excellent surgeon and every new doctor or cardiologist has nothing but high regard for him. Nice to know we in good hands.
The book Adam wrote was invaluable. Really gave me a head start on what to prepare and what to expect. Worth every penny.
Good luck!
Colette
On June 3, 2014...
Lauren posted a note for Colette that says:
You need to take it easy in your new recliner!!! Don't over do it...feel better tomorrow! L & J
Colette McDiarmid Thanks for cheering me on Lauren and the visits. LOVE THE RECLINER :)
On June 3, 2014...
dora heward posted a note for Colette that says:
I sure hope you feel better soon. Glad to hear everything went well for you. Speedy recovery - enjoy the sunshine and smell the flowers. We miss you
judy posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi again Colette. Ah, too bad. None in Chilliwack ...only lower mainland. (and of course it should have read BC Biomed ... Not that other thing). anyway, congrats on being home !
Shelina posted a note for Colette that says:
It's great hear that your doing so well Colette. I've been sending positive thoughts and prayers your way and hoping you were able to enjoys this amazing weather. Looking forward to you being well enough for visits.
judy posted a note for Colette that says:
Hey Colette ... Glad you are home. From one BC gal to another ... Check for a Life Labs in Chwk instead of BC boomed ... Then you can make on line appointments. Easy least ...and really works !
Uncle Rick & Aunty Pat posted a note for Colette that says:
We were so happy to be able to help you out today. Glad we came at just the right time. You are looking great but remember 6 weeks and 12 weeks. Love you lots. Again baby steps.
Ginger (in the Land of Oz) posted a note for Colette that says:
Congrats Colette! Big step today! You will continue to be in our prayers. Please continue to let us know how you are doing!
Wishing you all good things,
Ginger
Sheri posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi Colette, If they are sending you home on warfarin... make sure to ask for a stat order to have your blood tested whenever you want and to be assured you will have the results within 1-4 hours on line. There is a site called My E-health https://secure.myehealth.ca/Login.aspx that you can access your own INR from home once the results are in. If your doctor wants to tweak the daily dose of pills, you will be able to e-mail your doctor the results and figure it out quite quickly from home. Jamie does this as well and it is so nice to be able to manage it ourselves. Fun times with the limited vitamin K diet!! Or if you must have it, keep the intake the same each day if possible. Glad to hear 'home' is in your sights!
Uncle Rick and Aunty Pat posted a note for Colette that says:
It was wonderful to see you again today. Looking great and stronger then yesterday. And you are hungry so that's a plus. Baby steps..... Really really enjoyed our visits. Love you lots. You always have such a contagious smile .
Ginger (in the Land of Oz) posted a note for Colette that says:
Colette,
This must have been the two steps forward! Sounds so great to hear cheer in your message! You continue to have all good healing thoughts and prayers from my direction!
Just remember to take care of YOU!
Blessings,
Ginger
Candace Forsberg posted a note for Colette that says:
Hey Sis,
Glad to hear you had a better day! Got a little crazy today at school, but will talk to you in the morning. I hear from others that the recovery is slow, but to see your pictures and hear your voice this morning, you sound much better!!! I planning on a visit this weekend. Let me know what you need. Must be getting boring! Need some more "penny awfuls" as Nanny used to call them? Can I smuggle in wine? While the men are away the girls will play! Okay maybe you can't drink wine, but I will enjoy a glass for each of us! Just kidding. Remember that each baby step moves you in the right direction!!! HOME!!!! TTY in the morning! BTW your 3 am posts on facebook CRACK me up!
Colette McDiarmid Thanks can looking forward to seeing you. No wine for this girl. I woke up at 3 again but went back to sleep pretty quick until 6am. Did my exercises and a lap. Need a shower :)
On May 30, 2014...
Carol posted a note for Colette that says:
WOOT WOOT!!!!!!!
Ginger (in the Land of Oz) posted a note for Colette that says:
Colette,
So glad you are having a better day both in mood and in your condition.
All the best,
Ginger
Heather Vegh posted a note for Colette that says:
Sorry you have to stay until Monday. Hopefully you get some time on that patio that you were talking about. Sunshine can do amazing things and it is supposed to be shining all weekend. I wish I could insert an emoticon - it would be one of those bright yellow large abnoxious smiley faces which would hopefully give you something to smile back at.
Sheri posted a note for Colette that says:
Hang in there, Colette! So tough to be away from family and the comforts of home and to be dealing with a health crisis on top of it all. Stay strong.... love your journal entries and love your courage to fight back. Good girl!! Hugs for ya!
Julia posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi, Colette,
Hang in there. I had the Ross procedure on 5/15. I thought I was progressing well, but then a dry cough set in & my whole chest (upto shoulders) are sore. My left leg is swollen again. Very discouraging.
BTW, I also have a son named Duncan. I am sure it's hard on them.
Patti posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi Collette-
Having had mitral valve repair at the end of February, I want to tell you it gets better. While others are sprinters we mitral valve repair folks are long distance athletes. Speed is not all it's cracked up to be. Without any pre surgery symptoms and jogging the day before, I thought my surgery and recovery would be faster than most-wrong. Despite doing everything I was told, it's two steps forward and one back which would bring tears. I now keep daily log to enable me to look back a week and remind myself I am improving and that the time between auras is greater, stamina is improving, meds are less etc To those of us a bit further along on the recovery trail with surgery further behind we read your note and know better days are ahead. Hang in there. You have lots of us rooting for you.
Jessica Clark posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi Colette,
I just caught wind of this amazing blog. It is great to hear from you and that you are doing so well! Thinking of you during your recovery - remember to take it one day at a time. :)
Ginger (in Land of Oz) posted a note for Colette that says:
Colette,
So sorry your morning was so difficult. Hope you have your chin up now. I am blessed with loving sisters. Patty says, "Two steps forward, one step back - that's the Farley cha cha cha!" (Farley is my maiden name.) And Colette, look how great your Tuesday was! My sister Beth used to tell her young son when he'd feel overwhelmed with school work: "How do you eat an elephant?" "One bite at a time!" Makes me laugh, but there is great wisdom in it. And sometimes our bites are big and sometimes they are smaller, but eventually more and more progress is made. So thanks to some of the Farley sisters, as their words are memorable and so encouraging!
Heather Vegh posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi Colette, I went to Al today to ask how you are doing? I have been thinking of you and had no idea about this amazing blog site which he shared with me. What a great way to communicate with everyone. I keep thinking of you and your family (who I don't know) but as we discovered by your cool maps downstairs live only a stone throw from our house. Take care during the rest of your recovery. We are looking forward to having you back. :)
Trish Alsip posted a note for Colette that says:
Hi Colette,
You are amazing. So happy to hear that your surgery went well and you're on the road to recovery. Thinking of you and your family and wish you the best. We miss you here and hope you are back soon. One day at a time :)Take care - Trish Alsip
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