Dianne's Guestbook

Paul Pierce posted a note for Dianne that says: Dianne,
I was reading your post. I have to have my Mitral valve repaired either partial sternotomy or full. I was wondering what happened to the lady you mentioned that never left the hospital. Was she an Elderly lady? I just cant figure out why she never made it through.

Michael Andreas posted a note for Dianne that says: My OHS (bovine valve and aneurysm repair) was my first hospital stay, I didn't think about sleeping. I am also a side sleeper but when I rolled on my side while sleeping, the sound of my heartbeat woke me up. I finally bought an adjustable bed. At about 11 months all is back to normal.

Patricia posted a note for Dianne that says: Hi Dianne, Sleeping on our sides seems to be one of the top 5 goals in early recovery. I was so stiff and sore from sleeping on my back. I could hardly stand it until I asked my doctor about it. Cardiologist said that trying to sleep on our sides before 6 to 8 weeks can put weight on wires used for surgery and permanently bend them into an inverted V shape that could cause lifelong arthritic type pain. This is from one doctor, so check with yours. I had OHS/AVR and I am 5'4, 135lbs - so it was not an issue of size or weight. Keep feeling better each day.

Patricia posted a note for Dianne that says: Loved your cartoon, Dianne. Dealing with bacterial infection that has caused dementia like symptoms. I felt like I was losing my mind adding this to OHS. Blessed to have a doc who knew right away what it was. Your drawing is just perfect! Still giggling. Thanks

Julie M posted a note for Dianne that says: It's so good to know you're moving right along, Dianne! I have been praying for you since before your surgery, and will continue to pray throughout your recovery. Love your "expectations/reality" graphic, haha.

I don't have a date yet for my mitral valve repair (most likely replacement, I'm told, but will know more when I meet with the surgeon on March 11th). Like everyone, I feel scared, but it's so encouraging to read about the experiences of others going through it before me. This website is a godsend.

Paul Pierce posted a note for Dianne that says: Hello Dianne,
I am going to need Mitral valve repair soon and I am in the Orlando area. I was thinking of going out of state for surgery. But if I could find an experienced well practised mitral vale repair surgeon in florida it would be such a relief. How was your experience with dr Accola?

Vern Ahlo posted a note for Dianne that says: Diane,
Positive thoughts and prayers for you and your family while you Rock this surgery!

Tom McDonald posted a note for Dianne that says: Dianne,
wishing you all the best on surgery day tomorrow , and for a speedy recovery!

Jeff W posted a note for Dianne that says: Hi Dianne! Sending prayers for your surgery tomorrow 😊

Kaaren Carone posted a note for Dianne that says: Best wishes for smooth surgery and quick recovery!

Mava Reif posted a note for Dianne that says: Your story is so much like mine! I found out I needed surgery to repair/replace my mitral valve just last fall, and my surgery was Feb 5th. Dr Kevin Accola is my surgeon, and he is just wonderful! Also, Adventhealth and its staff, is such a great hospital. You are in excellent hands! Prayers for your successful surgery, Dianne.

Susan Lynn posted a note for Dianne that says: Dianne - Wishing you all the best on Tuesday! We'll be here awaiting your good news! ❤

Lisa & Glen Smith posted a note for Dianne that says: Dianne
Sending positive thoughts your way. I have the same diagnosis and was curious how long it took you to get an appt with Dr. Accola. I was diagnosed Feb 8th and just had my cardio cath Feb12th. I am seeing my first surgeon (locally recommended by my cardiologist) appt on Feb 20.

Charles Renner posted a note for Dianne that says: Dianne, wishing you a quick recovery. It has been less than 2 weeks since my surgery and feel much better than prior to the surgery.

Dianna Hamman posted a note for Dianne that says: Hi my name is Dianna and I had my surgery in 2009 I'll be praying for you let me know how recovery goes God bless you

jennifer jacobs posted a note for Dianne that says: Dianne you got this. You will do great. Think of all the things you want to do afterwards. You are in my thoughts and prayers for your surgery and recovery
See you on the Recovery side.

John Isham posted a note for Dianne that says: Dianne....all the Heart Warriors have you on their Radar Screen for your Surgery tomorrow. We are all here in support, prayer, hope and encouragement. Remember to get Physically, Mentally and Spiritually prepared today.
We prayer for a very successful surgery tomorrow and an absolute incredible recovery!

Prayers for the smoothest surgery and recovery possible, Dianne!

I haven't posted a story yet but was told on Jan 16th that I need valve repair (hopefully not replacement) for mitral valve (with moderate to severe regurgitation) that has already caused moderate to severe enlargement of the left atrium. Have known about my MVP since my 20s (I'm 67 now). My tricuspid valve also leaks, I'm told. Expecting a call from the surgeon's office to schedule consultation.

No idea what to expect but taking one step at a time ....Just discovered this site & hope it will be helpful... Hadn't thought about post-surgery fevers and fluid retention until reading posts. Lots to process.... They didn't give you much time for that! Could be an upside to that...

I'm in Daytona, not far from you... Stay strong & positive; it won't be long before the hardest part is behind you! I will be holding you in prayer and watching for your posts on your progress.

Steve Corkhill posted a note for Dianne that says: Two days to go, Dianne. Good luck from here in the UK.
Try to keep it in perspective. Yes, it's frightening. But consider the alternative. This is worth it. It's a positive attempt to get you back to what you were.
Take the time to get better. Allow your body to recover, but push it and encourage it every day. I went through three clear phases: recovery from the operation itself, recuperation after that and then a definite rehabilitation period.
Talking with others and reading stories on the boards here, consistency is the key to recovery. You will go through some ups and some downs, and if you can use your mind to believe that the overall trend is in an upward direction, the downs won't feel so severe.
Good luck. Be positive and have faith in your ability to recover.