Gary's Guestbook

Hi Gary, I was there that day as well for a post surgery follow up, but never did get to see him as I was told he was called in for emergency surgery. My appt. was for 1pm but I didn't end up seeing anyone (nevermind Dr. Byrne) until almost 2:30pm. You must have gotten in earlier before the backlog. I had him repair my mitral valve on 9/24 so I'm only a couple of weeks out. He did a mini right thoracotomy (small incision under my right breast). I've done really well so far and felt that BWH was absolutely phenomenal. I received excellent care there. I too found out just recently (July) that I needed the surgery and didn't know up til that point that I even had a problem with my heart. It does take a while to sink in, but what helped me was making as many plans and decisions as I could so as not to feel like I had no control over what was happening to me. The other thing that helped was knowing that I have access to some of the best hospitals/doctors in the world here in the Boston area. Feel free to read my journals and story and ask any questions you might still have. Best wishes and welcome to the community here. Lots of helpful info and supportive people who have or are going through the same thing.

Hey Gary: Welcome! Yes, I think we all have that same reaction. Heart surgery, me?Now? I live in Wellesley, MA, just down the road from you. Dr. Byrne is popular. HVJ member Carol Foster just had her surgery and Barb Brooks will have her procedure in a few weeks. Both Dr. Byrnes. I suggest you check out their HVJ journals and leave notes. I will have MVR on 11/05 so you and I will be recovering at roughly the same time. Folks on this site are great. Ask any question you may have and you will get answers and support. We are all in this together, Gary. All the best.