Jeff's Heart Valve Journal

Michele Tracey posted a note for Jeff that says: Hi Jeff, how long were you in surgery and what did you have done? Thank you!

Joan posted a note for Jeff that says: Hi Jeff
Everyone is different, I had my son for the first week and my other son for second
week, everything went well and you must get up and walk but no lifting the 2 little
ones. You will be fine and don't forget to breathe in that blue thing, I had a great
surgeon and no pain after the surgery, i also had a valve replacement, as my mom
and sister no worries, you are in my thoughts and prayers

Jeff Lashins posted a note for Jeff that says: Hey Jeff - I don't know how often you check this site anymore. I noticed you had migraines as a symptom of your heart dysfunction. Did the migraines go away after surgery? I've had a chronic migraine since March of last year. I am really hoping that it is connected to my aortic insufficiency, but I guess I won't know till after Friday. I've been on amitriptyline for several months now and I it has reduced the intensity of the migraine, but it is still exists slightly every day at a low level.

Julia Hsu posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff,

I am 12 weeks post surgery. I have shoulder & chest pain still. I understand the chest pain. Do you know why OHS gives us shoulder pain?

Also, I still have trouble sleeping. When was your sleep back to normal?

Carol Jackson posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff,
So glad to hear you are doing so well. I remember well 1 year ago on Sept. 1 that I found out I would have to have the same surgery that you had. I followed your journal which helped me so much to get ready for my surgery on Oct. 8, 2013. I could not have prepared for surgery and recovered from surgery without this site and your journal. So you have some shoulder pain? I still have some chest tightness which usually happens when I don't exercise and/or stretch everyday. Do you feel the same way ...that you are glad you are on the other side of surgery? I sure do. Take care. I can't wait to update my journal on my anniversary on Oct. 8! I'm glad you are celebrating your 1 year anniversary.

John O'Neill posted a note for Jeff that says: Hi Jeff
I also had a bicuspid aortic valve, aneurysm and needed one bypass. I started cardiac rehab two weeks after surgery at Rice Hospital in Willmar MN. My heart surgery was at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester MN. It was really helpful that they monitored me and guided my getting back to normal ASAP. I walked my first 5k thirty days after surgery,ran my first 5mile road race 3 months after surgery. I then did my first marathon 13 months after surgery. My wife was worried I would hurt myself recovering so she was relieved that cardiac rehab was there to guide my recovery and return to normal. That was almost 5 years ago and the mechanical valve is still clicking away with no sign of wear. I monitor my INR weekly at home as my work load and diet are anything but consistent. I'm a 62 year old full time farmer.
Happy recovery

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Jeff that says: Did you go through a wormhole or a time machine? The previous post in November you were 16 weeks post surgery and now this last post just a couple of weeks later you are 18 MONTHS post surgery. My how time flies! :D

Keep up the boring healing process.

Chris K posted a note for Jeff that says: Glad to know how boring it is--what a good sign of progress!!
I still have some soreness near the right side of my incision, and especially if I roll over at night, or push myself in the gym--but it is getting better.
But it is all worth it to have a healthy heart!
Thanks for keeping us posted and--Take care!

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff
Remain medically boring! I want the same thing - no complications or lapses and continued healing. Real glad you are doing well. Keep healing, big guy!

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Jeff that says: Have a good Thanksgiving and eat planety of turkey to help you heal well.

Chris K posted a note for Jeff that says: I too still have tenderness/soreness around my incision and right side of my chest and shoulder. It makes it hard to sleep though the night, so I am still taking sleeping pills. I find it hard to twist to my right or to swim using my right arm. But it is slowly getting better. They use clamps to hold your chest open during surgery and I think the soreness is from the clamps.

My surgeon also said he didn't think I needed cardio rehab because I am in reasonable good shape. Nonetheless the hospital referred me and I am glad. You don't know how far and how fast to push your heart. There are guys in my class with Afib and the PT and Nurse keep having to tell them to slow down and pace themselves. They monitor your heart rhythm for the first few sessions like in the hospital, then move you to a wristband heart rate monitor. They record your levels each time and slowly move you up, while monitoring your heart. And you feel good after each class and it is nice sharing stories and experiences with those who have been through the same kind of surgery. I would highly recommend it.

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeff that says: Hey Jeff
Great report! So glad you missed complications. I asked my PCP about cardiac rehab this week and he was adamant that I should do it. So I will. Perhaps you could sign up? Best.

Higgy posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff,

Rehab has benefitted me the most nj knowing how far I can push myself. The workouts are strenuous, but I have noticed a marked improvement of my overall vitals since they have me hooked up with a monitoring system as I work out. My heart rate has dropped from the 150's when I started on the treadmill to under 125. Let me know what you decide to do.

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff O!!!!!!!

Glad to hear you are doing so well. I wonder if you took a Tylenol before you hit the sack if that would help you sleep through the night in bed? Although you might wake up feeling sore.

I started cardiac rehab this week. They've got me going slower than I was doing on my own, which is probably where I should be. I tend to push things too quick. You may be past needing rehab, but then again it may do you good. Ask your regular doctor and see if he agrees with the cardiologist.

Carol Jackson posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff,
Good to hear you are doing so well. Like you I feel so blessed that I have not had any significant problems since leaving the hospital. ( Although I know I'm only 6 weeks out and things could still happen) Since I did have 1 day of atril fib in hospital my cardiologist said he still doesn't want me drinking caffeine for awhile. (I can do that!)

As far as cardio rehab, it just gives me more confidence. They also have me doing more upper body exercises which has strengthened that area and it seems not to be as tight or hurt as much. Also they have the monitor on me and also check my BP 4 times while i am there. As I said before since my diagnosis code was only the repair of my aneurysm, insurance wouldn't pay for it so they made me a deal....6 sessions for $200.00 which is worth it to me.

So how was your energy level when you went back to work?

Hope this helps. Thanks so much for all your ideas and suggestions before my surgery. It really helped.

Joseph Kusiak posted a note for Jeff that says: Hi Jeff,
You and I had our surgery about the same time. I did the cardiac rehab, 24 sessions starting in week 5. They helped tremendously not only with the chest pain but also the mental and emotional concerns. From cardiac rehab I learned what I could do safely and gained confidence to do more but at a regulated pace.
It is so worth doing. I strongly suggest it.

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Jeff that says: Update you bastard!!!

Hope you are doing well.

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Jeff that says: I got another small bill in the mail today. Looking forward to my last surgery bill.

You're doing great. You are a TANK!

Rebecca S posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff, that's a good feeling, I know. I was amazed at how much was charged but how much they actually allowed. Big big difference. If all added together, I think would be more than $200,000 to $250,000. I don't think I have paid more than maybe $2000 out of pocket. A real blessing.
Congrats!!!

Chris K posted a note for Jeff that says: Thankfully in Canada we don't have to worry about such bills.
But I am being charged $100 for 8 cardio rehab sessions.
Glad to hear you are doing so well. It must have inspired me to get out in the yard and dig up some of my dahlia tubers to store for the winter!

Carol Jackson posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff,
That's funny about your bills. When I got home from surgery I had a Mayo statement every day which had been filed with insurance. I think they got everything sent to me since there has been nothing from Mayo in the mail for 3 days! Interesting to see how long it takes for everything to be settled with the insurance company.

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff
Congrats on paying your last bill. That is huge! BTW, What did you say your address is??? Jeff, if you receive any valve-related bills in the future with my name on them could you please pay them? I am sure you and I can settle up at some point after I have my wits about me! Have a good one, big guy.

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeff that says: Hey Jeff, you are an animal! Great recovery. I am so pleased you are doing this well. I have always known Midwesterners are tough! Keep healing and posting. All the best.

Aubrey posted a note for Jeff that says: Great progress. Keep it up and we will all be talking about feeling like it is just a memory in a few months.

Chris K posted a note for Jeff that says: Wow! You are doing great! Working and mowing the lawn! I am doing some gardening but nothing heavy-duty like mowing the lawn.
I still have soreness in my chest and it is most bothersome when I go to bed. So, I am taking 1/2 of a sleeping pill to help me get to sleep and that gets me through the night.
As with you, I am generally doing better each week.

Rebecca S posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff, so glad you are doing well. Keep up the good work. I will probably be back at work next week.

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Jeff that says: HEAL!!

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeff that says: Hey Jeff:

I bet you are in the middle of fall weather in WI. In New England, fall has arrived. (And our Red Sox are still alive!) I am glad to see you are seeing progress. It seems like 12 weeks is a key milestone to feeling well. I hope the next week will be a good healing one for you, Jeff. Best.

Chris K posted a note for Jeff that says: Hi Jeff:
I just discovered your journal after seeing your post in my guestbook. Nice to have a fellow HVJr with the same surgery date. And it is reassuring to know that I am not the only one with some pain at 9 weeks.
I also read about the other challenges you faced with a tornado hitting your community and downing some trees around your house, and with your kids having a car break down en route to the hospital. Hope all is well with your home and your car, as well as with your heart!
Looking forward to your next post.

debbiej posted a note for Jeff that says: thanks Jeff

Thought I would have been immune to this depression thing but I guess not. Hoping we are both doing great next time we chat. Are you pretty much back to normal now?

Aubrey posted a note for Jeff that says: Thanks for posting about the 5 week setback. It is a great reminder that even at 4 weeks post op, I need to be very careful for weeks to come. Take it easy and keep leading the way for us all.

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeff that says: Hey Jeff:

Great news about work! And, hey, isn't doing too much at times part of recovery???! Get well, guy.

Aubrey posted a note for Jeff that says: Good luck from here. Some pain, a little work to start getting around, focus on what they tell you and you can move forward with a good and steady recovery.

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff
So glad that 4 weeks post op you are doing well. I am enjoying reading your entries. Continue healing. Best

Ernie posted a note for Jeff that says: Update? Photos? GROG crack whip!

Shelly Poluka posted a note for Jeff that says: Hi Jeff,
Glad to hear all went well with your surgery. Change of plans with my husbands, we decided to go with the
first surgeon we consulted with at NYC
Presbyterian Columbia with Dr. Craig Smith doing the surgery. We are ever so
grateful to him and his team and for certain the Lord for allowing this to transpire. You are about 2-weeks behind
my husband. I noticed a big improvement this past week, my husbands 1 month mark. Take care walk, walk, walk it is so good for the body.
Prayers to you,

Ernie B.S. posted a note for Jeff that says: Did you get lost Jeff? No posts for awhile.
Hoping to hear you're recovering quickly and doing well.

Ernie B.S. posted a note for Jeff that says: Where's that $20 you me?!

Adam Pick posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff,

Great to hear you are back up to 80%.

Wishing you all the best in your recovery!

Keep on tickin!

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff
So pleased to hear you are on the other side of the procedure. Looking forward to hearing about the details when you are able to post. Good to hear you are 80% back after a week. Here's to daily improvement now as you continue recover.
All the best:

Deb Ziegler posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff,
You will be in my thoughts and prayers today. Hope your journey is peaceful and uneventful.
Godspeed and good luck!

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff
Here is to great success and a wonderful outcome tomorrow.
All the best:

Ernie B.S. posted a note for Jeff that says: Quit kidding us. We all know that you're REALLY going in for penis enlargement surgery. You should have gone with the equine instead of the bovine replacement.

You're going to do great!

Good luck and heal like the wind!

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeff that says: Ah, Jeff, you and the dog may want to be cautious when your wife suggests a car ride! Another trick is to offer to drive the both of you for some ice cream - I have fallen for that one several times!
I suspect once you get into the hospital schedule tomorrow your "waiting" anxiety will be replaced by more stimulating activities. All the best!

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff:
I bet you are ready to get 'er done. The very best of success next week with your surgery! (The nice thing is when I have my surgery in November you'll be talking about how much better you are feeling!)
Safe travels and all the best!

Bill Bard posted a note for Jeff that says: Hey Jeff
All will be well. You aren't going to believe how it wasn't as bad as you (and I) had feared. I'll be waiting to hear that all went well as it is certain to do!
Bill

Ernie posted a note for Jeff that says: Cardiac Cath is a walk-in-the-park. Expect some bruising and a little swelling, but hardly any pain. Not sure if I was groggy from anesthesia or from staying up too late the night before, but I mostly just napped during the recovery when I had to sit still for several hours. Time goes by quick when you're just napping.

Stay positive, you're going to do fine and be even finer after you recover from surgery. Something to look forward to.

Sue S. posted a note for Jeff that says: Hey Jeff, I'll be following you every step of the way. And I know you will do great. Of course you are nervous and scared. How could you not be? But you are in great hands and have so many people supporting you and I'm sure it will be so good to be on the other side of this and recovering. Best of luck. My thoughts will be with you.

Deb Ziegler posted a note for Jeff that says: Hi Jeff,
I remember how surreal it was going to Cleveland for my surgery. I just couldn't imagine how I was going to get through it all. I had worried about it 24/7 for a whole year, and when I got to Cleveland I sort of found a new strength. I received so much love, support and well wishes from family, friends and people on this site just before surgery day, and it was a HUGE boost to me emotionally. I had so many people rooting for me that I just knew I would be okay. While I was terrified, I was also confident. By the time you get to surgery day you will be ready.......ready to be on the other side and on the road to recovery. It is an amazing experience that will give you a new perspective on life. I know you may think so right now, but it truly is a life changing gift!

You will be in my thoughts and prayers in the days ahead. I hope you can find peace as you prepare for your big day.
Godspeed and God Bless,

Sandy Wummer AVR 5/9/13 posted a note for Jeff that says: Jeff, if you weren't nervous at this point you wouldn't be normal. I would wake up in the middle of the night before mine shaking. and im a pretty calm person. i am more than 3 months post surgery and cant believe how far ive come. there are days i forget i had anything done. I think waiting is the hardest part. pick your hospital and surgeon and then put yourself completely in their hands and don't look back. I found this site to be helpful, positive and supportive. come here when you have fears and those of us on the other side. (and we have all done very well( will be able to encourage you)..