Debbie 's Guestbook

You asked my opinion about Edward Chen. From my point of view he is a good mechanic - he replaced my bicuspid aortic valve with a pig valve and all seems to be going well. I'm 3 weeks out. Fatigue is my biggest challenge now. Now Chen has no bedside manner and communications with his office staff is non-existent BUT I did like his nurse practitioner, Kelly. I understand you had to go back in!!! If you feel like chatting, give me a call at 770-617-0629.

Hi Debbie. Glad to know you aren't too far from Greenville. Send me an email at dzeigler@zepco.net if you can and maybe we can manage to get together. I am happy to know you are doing well.

Hi Debbie.. I followed your story when I first got on the site. how are you doing? I still haven't had surgery but was wondering how things are going. you have a mechanical valve correct? I read you had questions about the clicking.. my fear is that I would hear that and it would drive me nuts.. I'd appreciate your feedback. thanks

Yes Debbie, you will get used to it and not even notice the heartbeat after a while. It took me about 6 months. Last year i had a week of jitters and pounding heartbeat That lasted about a week and had it again this year and both times checked out fine but after OHS we are allowed to get concerned when things seem different.

It was described to me that after OHS, the sac around your heart is cut and part removed. That sac acts as insulation and when gone, the heartbeat is felt more prominently. I have heard that mechanical Valves more so but you get used to it after a while......

Hi Debbie, Just read your post re: noise from mechanical valve. Would you consider trying hypnosis to help you reduce your perception of the noise? My friend has had a mechanical valve for the past 10 years and says he actually likes to hear its reassuring sound. Brenda Kelly

Debbie, I think the idea of a soft robe sounds great. Most hospital gowns are scratchy so I would imagine the addition of a soft fluffy robe even if it's overtop will be terrific! Your surgery is coming up soon and I would I think that maybe you are getting a bit nervous, I will pray for you and your recovery and peace of mind, and your children and hubby.... It will be over before you know it and be a thing of the past and you will be running after your kids again not even thinking about your heart, except as to how much you love them! Take care, Lise

I overpacked; I just wore the gown and another for a robe to go walking in the halls. Honestly you won't care! Let the nurses take care of you. I wore pj bottoms and a shirt that buttoned up in the front to go home. Button shirts are the best for the first weeks as you have to protect the sternum if open heart. I'm three weeks out from surgery and am doing very well; I wish you the same. I was woozy coming out of surgery but could write down questions or comments. The tube prevented me from talking but I still had plenty to say! I though I'd jot down things that week but didn't have the desire. It's ok not to care! Your kiddos look young so I'm going to say an extra prayer. It's scary to see someone with all the tubes and wires. I'm sure you have a super support system in place. Best wishes and patience!

Hi Debbie. How are you feeling today? Fyi.. My surgical procedures took place at St. Joseph Hospital. If you have any more questions re; my recovery; please fell free to send a message to theheartadvocate@comcast.net. Have a nice day Kim