Guestbook of Donna Carlson

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Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1422 days ago

Kristine Schroeder posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna. Hope your recovery is going well. Was your mitral valve repair a robot assisted surgery?

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1479 days ago

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Ruth joy posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna ,
Welcome to recovery . You are doing really well

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1480 days ago

Timothy Andre, Donna Carlson reacted to this

Deena Z posted a note for Donna that says:

Thinking of you, Donna. Hope all is well and you are beginning to walk the unit. I know you are exhausted, but it will get easier.

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1483 days ago

Donna Carlson, Miriam Alejos reacted to this

Will be praying for your surgery tomorrow to go well and your recovery will be smooth. 🙏❤️

Kristine Schroeder Praying for you Donna. Stay strong! You got this!!

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1484 days ago

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Ruth joy posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna ,
wishing you good luck for your surgery .

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1484 days ago

Donna Carlson reacted to this

Miriam Alejos posted a note for Donna that says:

Praying for a successful surgery and speedy recovery for you!

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1484 days ago

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Timothy Andre posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna, I want to send you the best of luck with your surgery on the 26th. You will do great. Take a deep breath, trust in the process and your team of... Read more

Hi Donna, I want to send you the best of luck with your surgery on the 26th. You will do great. Take a deep breath, trust in the process and your team of health professionals. See you on the recovery side soon

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1484 days ago

Donna Carlson reacted to this

Deena Z posted a note for Donna that says:

Thinking of you Donna. You're almost there. I also had a mitral valve repair last year.
You will get through this; you will be alright; you will live a lot... Read more

Thinking of you Donna. You're almost there. I also had a mitral valve repair last year.
You will get through this; you will be alright; you will live a lot longer and in a couple of days be so happy the hardest part is over. Godspeed

Miriam St.Clair

Also thinking of you, Donna.

Donna Carlson Thank you Deena, I am trying to focus forward 🙏
and thank you Miriam ❤️

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1484 days ago

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Howard Powders posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi, Donna,

According to Medifind, Dr. Brown is distinguished in mitral valve regurgitation
surgeries. That’s what you want. My surgery in ...Read more

Hi, Donna,

According to Medifind, Dr. Brown is distinguished in mitral valve regurgitation
surgeries. That’s what you want. My surgery in Sarasota is June 10th and sometimes, it feels like a death sentence, but it’s really a LIFE sentence!

Best of luck!!🙂

Howard Powders

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1485 days ago

Donna Carlson reacted to this

Cheryl Mann posted a note for Donna that says:

Donna,

I see you are in the home stretch waiting for your surgery. Hang in there- this is absolutely the worst part - you will be so glad ...Read more

Donna,

I see you are in the home stretch waiting for your surgery. Hang in there- this is absolutely the worst part - you will be so glad to be on the other side of surgery! You are in good hands. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Donna Carlson Thank you so much, Cheryl. I know this, but I am having a hard time not becoming tearful at the drop ... Read more

Donna Carlson Thank you so much, Cheryl. I know this, but I am having a hard time not becoming tearful at the drop of a hat. And yet another part of me is completely calm. Such a pendulum swing of emotions…

Cheryl Mann There is nothing wrong with tears. I think it is probably good to let them go - definitely better th ... Read more

Cheryl Mann There is nothing wrong with tears. I think it is probably good to let them go - definitely better than bottling them up inside.

Marie Myers My emotions were all over the place post op. I was doing the tearing up/ crying at the drop of a hat ... Read more

Marie Myers My emotions were all over the place post op. I was doing the tearing up/ crying at the drop of a hat thing after surgery, not before. I was mostly just anxious prior to surgery, and I can say my fears and worries were overblown.. The whole surgical experience was not as awful as my worrying mind would have me believe. Wishing you a smoother than expected journey through surgery and recovery!

Donna Carlson ❤️❤️thank you ❤️❤️

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1487 days ago

Donald Houdek posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi,
It looks like you have a few more days until the operation. I remember those days prior to surgery, I sat down and found some of my old books that I ...Read more

Hi,
It looks like you have a few more days until the operation. I remember those days prior to surgery, I sat down and found some of my old books that I had not read in years, so I started reading as much as I could. It really helped to keep from constantly thinking of the upcoming operation.

Oh, and after the operation make sure you do all of the things recommended for therapy. My son decided to work from home.... my home and made sure I walked, and walked, and walked each day. I need to get back into my Exercycle riding in front of the big screen TV here in my office. I have been slacking off again. I will be watching to see how everything went.

Don

Donna Carlson Don, thank you so much! I truly appreciate it. I have taken to ripping the house apart with spring cl ... Read more

Donna Carlson Don, thank you so much! I truly appreciate it. I have taken to ripping the house apart with spring cleaning- windows, blinds, floors, rugs. Cut the grass yesterday, I’ll be doing some planting and getting all my houseplants outside, getting the laundry all caught up- I will be working and praying all the way in, lol. Say a prayer for me, and continued good luck on your road to recovery!Donna

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1487 days ago

Donna Carlson reacted to this

Kathy G posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna, I too had mitral valve regurgitation. The best place for heart surgery ( rated number 1 in the country ) is Cleveland Clinic. My insurance covered ...Read more

Hi Donna, I too had mitral valve regurgitation. The best place for heart surgery ( rated number 1 in the country ) is Cleveland Clinic. My insurance covered everything but the hotel (because we live on the west coast) and flights. Dr Gullinov is head of mitral valve surgery. I recommend him highly! Expert in the field. I never will have to have another mitral valve surgery because the put in a ring and did not do a replacement

Donna Carlson That is wonderful news! I am hoping for the same outcome- fingers crossed!

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1487 days ago

Robert Bach posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna. I had open heart surgery to repair my mitral valve four years ago. I got the diagnosis a month after I retired, and it hit me hard. I was asymptomatic ...Read more

Hi Donna. I had open heart surgery to repair my mitral valve four years ago. I got the diagnosis a month after I retired, and it hit me hard. I was asymptomatic and never had any big health problems. I have friends who helped me through it. I'm 70 years old now and feel great. I work out at the gym several days a week and go for long walks through downtown Chicago where I live. I had no problems during recovery and don't require heart meds. My cardiologist told me there should be no impact on my lifespan. I'd have to say the experience made me more grateful for life in general. You'll get through this and will have a long and happy life, too. I know it!

Donna Carlson Robert, this is exactly what I need to hear. Thank you so much.

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1488 days ago

Donna Carlson reacted to this

David Pearl posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna ! Wishing you a good next 5 days before your surgery on the 26th..Let me know if you need any support...Blessings and good wishes---David

Donna Carlson Thanks so much David!

David Pearl Sure ! How did it go ?

Donna Carlson I made it through the fire! Two weeks post op yesterday, getting stronger by the day !

David Pearl Good god amazing how are you adapting to the new valve-are you aware of it ?

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1489 days ago

John H. posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna, I had my Mitral valve replaced on 3/25. Like you, I really wanted it to be repaired if possible. My surgeon was very good and made ...Read more

Hi Donna, I had my Mitral valve replaced on 3/25. Like you, I really wanted it to be repaired if possible. My surgeon was very good and made the point that sometimes complex repairs may not always be the best option if there is a increased possibility that the repair might not last. In my case, my valve simply was beyond being repaired, and I am thankful that I had a good replacement that should last. I also experienced the same sense of grief and sadness that you expressed. It was strange and unexpected. How did I deal with it? In my case, I am part of a faith-based community of friends that came around me, listened, encouraged and prayed for me. Despite the emotions and fears, I felt well covered in prayer which made all the difference in how I managed my concerns and anxieties. I hope you have something similar to help you through this time. Blessings to you and I will be praying that you will be comforted as I was. Lastly, I am 3+ weeks into my recovery. I am doing well and I know you will too!!

Donna Carlson Thank you so much, John. Yes, I am surrounded by support and prayers, and it gives me so much strengt ... Read more

Donna Carlson Thank you so much, John. Yes, I am surrounded by support and prayers, and it gives me so much strength. I am so happy for your outcome, continued health and blessings! See you on the other side!

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1489 days ago

Rose Madura posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna. I read your story and hope you have success finding the right facility and your insurance cooperates. From a young age, I knew someday ...Read more

Hi Donna. I read your story and hope you have success finding the right facility and your insurance cooperates. From a young age, I knew someday I'd need surgery and I used to get real scared. Oddly, I felt more at ease after I had a hysterectomy. I know. Doesn't make any sense. But you kind of feel a mourning for your life when you didn't need surgery. Having said that, I'm so thankful I went through with it. I feel so much better than I ever have. You can do this! Trust God, do research, find a facility and a doctor you trust. And don't forget a 2nd opinion. I will pray for you to have peace.

Donna Carlson Thanks Rose. I did a ton of research and I am confident in both my surgeon and the cardiac institute ... Read more

Donna Carlson Thanks Rose. I did a ton of research and I am confident in both my surgeon and the cardiac institute in Morristown. They were my second opinion and I’m so glad I went that route. So now, it’s all about getting through…

Rose Madura Yes, waiting is the hardest part. But try to take it one day at a time. Do some relaxing things unti ... Read more

Rose Madura Yes, waiting is the hardest part. But try to take it one day at a time. Do some relaxing things until surgery. We are here to try to answer any questions you may have.

Donna Carlson Thank you Rose!

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1489 days ago

Donna Carlson reacted to this

Sandy Harvey posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna - Reading your story - I think before surgery is a difficult time. All kinds of thoughts do enter into the equation BUT, I will tell you I never lost ...Read more

Hi Donna - Reading your story - I think before surgery is a difficult time. All kinds of thoughts do enter into the equation BUT, I will tell you I never lost sight of my faith in God or trying every day to keep it positive. I hope you will too. You are going to be okay. God Bless.

Donna Carlson Thank you so much, Sandy ❤️

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1489 days ago

Ruth joy posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna ,
I hope that you ‘re doing okay .

Donna Carlson Ruth, I vacillate between pragmatic dealing with preparation and anxiety. But I am ready. Thank you f ... Read more

Donna Carlson Ruth, I vacillate between pragmatic dealing with preparation and anxiety. But I am ready. Thank you for the thoughts.

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1496 days ago

Donna Carlson reacted to this

Ruth joy posted a note for Donna that says:

Donna , you are going to be okay and you ‘re not going through it alone .
You have your family , friends and this fabulous community.

Donna Carlson Thank you, Ruth.

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1522 days ago

Frank Giovanniello , Donna Carlson reacted to this

Adam Pick posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna, I just saw your post about the emotions following diagnosis. I can relate and remember what you are going through. That said, I thought you... Read more

Hi Donna, I just saw your post about the emotions following diagnosis. I can relate and remember what you are going through. That said, I thought you might like to watch this educational video about the patient mind before and after surgery. I hope the helps bring you comfort.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfO5DTvNIkQ

The Patient Mind: Before, During & After Heart Surgery

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfO5DTvNIkQ

https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - Have you ever wondered what emotions patients experience before, during and after heart surgery? Find out in this educa...

Donna Carlson Thank you so much Adam! For this, for everything. This site and your videos are keeping me sane ❤� ... Read more

Donna Carlson Thank you so much Adam! For this, for everything. This site and your videos are keeping me sane ❤️

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1523 days ago

Donna Carlson reacted to this

Ruth joy posted a note for Donna that says:

Donna , that ‘s a gorgeous phot

o !!!

Donna Vedovelli Good luck with your surgery I know how you are feeling my date is 4/13 and I am also emotional cryin ... Read more

Donna Vedovelli Good luck with your surgery I know how you are feeling my date is 4/13 and I am also emotional crying at a drop of a hat. I need three valve two replacements and one repair. It is hard to find the strength. We can do it one step at a time

Donna Carlson So much love to you, Donna! I will be pulling for you, and keep you in my prayers!!

Donna Carlson Thank you Ruth!

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1593 days ago

Deena Z reacted to this

Karen Miller posted a note for Donna that says:

Hi Donna, I know how you feel I have been on an emotional rollercoaster since September when I found out I had a bicuspid valve with severe stenosis. This ...Read more

Hi Donna, I know how you feel I have been on an emotional rollercoaster since September when I found out I had a bicuspid valve with severe stenosis. This website has helped me by reading everyone's success stories and all of the support that everyone gives you. This week has been extremely emotional for me my surgery is scheduled for 1-11 the last thing I need to do is go for my Covid test on Saturday and make sure I have all of the last minute things buttoned up. I have a great surgeon and Cardiac team at Northwestern Medicine and I know I am going to be fine I wish I could tell you how to not be anxious but its just human nature to be. We are all going to feel so much better once our hearts are fixed and this will all be behind us. #newheartnewyear2022

Donna Carlson God bless you Karen, Northwestern is a premier program firm what I have researched. Good luck, I know ... Read more

Donna Carlson God bless you Karen, Northwestern is a premier program firm what I have researched. Good luck, I know you are in good hands, and I’ll keep you in my prayers. Let me know how it goes!

Donna Carlson God bless you Karen, Northwestern is a premier program firm what I have researched. Good luck, I know ... Read more

Donna Carlson God bless you Karen, Northwestern is a premier program firm what I have researched. Good luck, I know you are in good hands, and I’ll keep you in my prayers. Let me know how it goes!

Donna Carlson God bless you Karen, Northwestern is a premier program firm what I have researched. Good luck, I know ... Read more

Donna Carlson God bless you Karen, Northwestern is a premier program firm what I have researched. Good luck, I know you are in good hands, and I’ll keep you in my prayers. Let me know how it goes!

Donna Carlson God bless you Karen, Northwestern is a premier program firm what I have researched. Good luck, I know ... Read more

Donna Carlson God bless you Karen, Northwestern is a premier program firm what I have researched. Good luck, I know you are in good hands, and I’ll keep you in my prayers. Let me know how it goes!

Donna Carlsongot a new guestbook post

1594 days ago

Donna Carlson reacted to this

Janelle Hurst posted a note for Donna that says:

HI Donna, I was an emotional mess for 2-3 months after finding out I needed surgery. Once I found a surgeon that I felt comfortable with and had a surgery ...Read more

HI Donna, I was an emotional mess for 2-3 months after finding out I needed surgery. Once I found a surgeon that I felt comfortable with and had a surgery date I felt much more calm. I also have mitral regurgitation, with surgery scheduled for Feb. 11. I'm sure the anxiety will ramp up again when it's finally time for surgery. If you're not doing it already, I encourage you to do a lot of research on the surgery itself and various surgeons, get multiple consults if possible. Sounds like you want the BEST (I felt that way too). I live in FL but am going out of state for my surgery. Feel free to reach out for anything! Janelle

john roland Donna, the best thing for you to do is get all your medical records in order. In the meantime contact ... Read more

john roland Donna, the best thing for you to do is get all your medical records in order. In the meantime contact the hospital or Dr. that you want to do the surgery. Tell them what insurance you have and let them tell you if they take it or not. Do not trust or call the insurance company like I did. I contacted the Cleveland Clinic and they told me my insurance is accepted. You then send all your records in to them, or if it is close drive it to them for their review. Most importantly try to relax. These Doctors and their support staff perform miracles every day. You definitely want a valve center, they have the expertise to deal with it and give you confidence. Good luck

Donna Carlson John, thank you so much.