My Guestbook

On April 25, 2018...

Matt Hamann posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi Jeff!

I'm scheduled to undergo the Ross procedure with Dr. Stelzer next month! I had already made this decision when I came across your story... so it was good to confirm what I believe will be the right choice. Secondly, I appreciate you taking the time to write the very detailed personal Journal entries! They are a tremendous help at a time when I'm trying to remain confident while minimizing nerves and anxiety. Your suggestions around guided visualization and the Peggy Huddleston book (I ordered today) are extremely helpful and quite frankly good advice I've not read anywhere else. So thank you for all of your help... to this point and for what I'm sure will be a big help in the coming weeks and months! - Matt

Like | Gina Fiorentino and 1 other likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Matt,

Thanks for writing. I am happy to hear that my journal was helpful to you. And yes, the guided visualization was amazing and SO helpful. This one ... Read more

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Matt,

Thanks for writing. I am happy to hear that my journal was helpful to you. And yes, the guided visualization was amazing and SO helpful. This one is awesome and the main one I used pre-surgery"

https://www.healthjourneys.com/audio-library/surgery-prep-recovery/successful-surgery

This one I used post surgery and included healing affirmations and visualizations. I literally used it in ICU as soon as I could.

https://www.healthjourneys.com/audio-library/surgery-prep-recovery/two-guided-meditations-for-cardiac-icu-rehab-config

Best thing you can do is be healthy mentally and physically. My recovery, as you have read, was nothing short of spectacular.

You are truly with the best surgeon and human being in Dr. Stelzer and he is 6 years more experienced now than when he did mine. I am so glad he is still doing surgeries. Amazing! Please say hello from me and send him my best. He is a special guy.

If you would like to speak just shoot me an email and I will send you my cell number. jshebovsky11@gmail.com

Best of luck to you. It will be tough at first but you will be amazed at how fast recovery speeds along. Just look at where I was 6 days post op walking the streets of NYC and where I was even 2 weeks post. Hard to believe.

I am still doing GREAT now just past 6 years. Zero issues. Play baseball, work out, work like crazy. It truly is like this surgery never even happened.

I look forward to welcoming you to the Ross family.

Again, good luck and I am here if you want to talk or email.

Jeff

Meditations to Promote Successful Surgery

https://www.healthjourneys.com/audio-library/surgery-prep-recovery/successful-surgery

This award winning, highly researched meditation for surgery preparation and recovery, was found in double blind, placebo-controlled research to dramatically lower pre-op anxiety and pain, speed up healing, cut length of hospital stay, lower use of medication and reduce blood loss. Put the meditation CD or the Playaway in your overnight bag or the MP3 on your phone, and you will be more set for successful surgery and recovery than you could ever imagine.

On March 29, 2017...

Ken Sawicki posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi Jeff, it's Ken - we chatted a bit right after your Ross.... Glad to hear everything's going so well! I was Stelzer's Ross #201 (in 1998, at Beth Israel). Having both valves replaced (again) next week at Yale, along with part of the aorta. If you'd like to chat, I'll leave you my e-mail address. Congrats on your new lease on life!

Like | Jeffrey Shebovsky likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Ken,
Wow, having both replaced. yes would love to chat about this. Email me at jshebovsky11@gmail.com with your number and we can set something up.
Jeff

On March 9, 2017...

Al Cinamon posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

I'm in my 15th year since surgery. So, yes, it's like it never happened. Wishing you long life, my dear friend.

Like | Matthew Russo, Jeffrey Shebovsky likes this

On March 8, 2017...

Larry Ring posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi Jeff...
Enjoyed reading your posts and your anniversary updates.
I'm four weeks out post-surgery...so my anniversaries are measured now in months, rather than years.
I had a question to ask you...as a clinical chiropractor...
How long after my OHS should I wait before resuming my maintenance treatments with my chiro here in CA?
I am a bit paranoid about any adjustments anywhere near my sternum (as you can imagine)...LOL...
But I am feeling some tightness and pain in my scapula (primarily right side) that seems to be positional. If I consciously pull my shoulders back and keep my head erect, I can alleviate the scapular pain...so I'm imagining is a slouching/postural issue at this point in time.
Anyway, thanks again for the updates...
And any insight you have on when I can resume treatment would be much appreciated.

Like | Matthew Russo, Jeffrey Shebovsky likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky You can get the neck done anytime (unless you are on blood thinners still). For the mid back area I would say 3 months. And ask the Chiropractor if they can ... Read more

Jeffrey Shebovsky You can get the neck done anytime (unless you are on blood thinners still). For the mid back area I would say 3 months. And ask the Chiropractor if they can do an "anteriority" adjustment rather than "P to A". As of the mid back/scapula issues, I know that all too well. After my surgery that was killing me. I would say get massage. I was getting it 3 days a week for my mid back area. You can have them do it seated. (you obviously do not want to lie face down yet) If they have their own chair, you can lean gently into it with a pillow on your chest if needed. Best of luck with your recovery, the hardest part (the waiting for surgery) is over and done. Let me know if you need anything else.

On March 8, 2017...

Marcia Meshel posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Congratulations! I can't believe it's been 5 years. Even though I never knew at the time of your surgery that you were a Republican, my best wishes for your health and the health of your family, have always and would always be the same. Love you Jeff.

Like | Jeffrey Shebovsky likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Marica. Love transcends politics. (well at least with us it does :)

On March 8, 2017...

Peter posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Glad you are doing well! Peter

Like | Jeffrey Shebovsky likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Peter.

On March 8, 2017...

Reba Hill posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

So happy to hear you are still doing well after your heart surgery. Robert and I are doing well, also. He just had another heart cath in December and all his stents are working like a well-oiled machine. During my visits with you I have learned that all doctors are not created equally. Thank you for helping me "see the light"!

Like | Marie Myers, Jeffrey Shebovsky and 1 other likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks for writing Reba. Glad to hear all is well with you and Robert.

On March 8, 2016...

Tina Maroon posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

So so glad to hear of your success with your surgery. It is very encouraging to everyone and to me as well. I had my surgery June 2015. So I enjoy hearing your updates and positive stories.

Like | Jeffrey Shebovsky and 2 others like this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Tina. Hope you are also doing well

On March 8, 2016...

The Rictors posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hard to believe it's been four years already! How encouraging your story has been so others yet awaiting their Ross. Keep up the great work at being available to both the Ross patients as well as your own patients. Proud to know you!

Like | 1 person likes this

On March 8, 2016...

The Rictors posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Like |

On July 16, 2015...

Lisa Heinen posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi Jeff - would love to have some questions answered about your Ross decision. Both surgeons I have met with - one in Sioux Falls, SD and the other at the Mayo clinic both tried to discourage me from the Ross for the same reasons you were told - making a one valve surgery into two. I am 47 with bi-cuspid aortic valve with severe stenosis and an ascending aortic aneurysm of approx. 5.1 so need to make decisions sooner rather than later. I have been in contact with Dr. Stelzer and he is willing to accept me as a patient and has said I am a candidate - for which I'm grateful. Any advice for me?
Lisa

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hello Lisa. I would be pleased to answer any questions you have. Please email me at: jshebovsky11@gmail.com and I will send you my phone number

Jeffrey Shebovsky On a sidenote. It will be worth every penny to fly up and meet Dr. Stelzer in person and interview him. You'll be sold as I was after meeting him. I have other Dr. Stelzer references for you as well.

On April 11, 2015...

dj rosa posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi Jeff,
DJ Rosa, Male, 44, 6 foot 1 ,245lbs..active but right now out of gas as you might expect
Am scheduled for hart valve replacement on the 24th. Im very anxious and was just wondering if you hav any advice and how are you feeling?
Thank you!

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi DJ,
Advice? I have lots I am sure. Try not to stress over it. SO many go through this and SO many do so well. Odds are in your favor. Try some guided visualization/imagery. I did a couple. This one was very good:

http://www.healthjourneys.com/Store/Products/Successful-Surgery-Health-Journeys/29

I did it before and after surgery along with an after surgery affirmation one for healing. My recovery was quick and uneventful. Been just over 3 years now and its like it never even happened. Within a few weeks you won't believe how good you will be doing. The waiting and stressing is probably the hardest part. Make sure you also get a good "adrenal support formula". Google Dr. James Wilson and adrenal. He has some good info and also sells stuff. Heart surgery is a major stress to the body and the adrenal glands deal with stress. Many patients after heart surgery are VERY fatigued. You will see this over and over. I had NONE. Check out my posts. I believe the Guided Imagery and the adrenal formula helped me avoid that. Another thing is get a good meal replacement shake. Bring to hospital with a small magic bullet blender. I use Isagenix. This was helpful for me to get good nutrition especially while I had no appetite. Lots to consider. Write back if you want to correspond some more. Check out Damian Kudelka. He just had surgery like 6 weeks ago. He is on here. He can also give you advice, he just went through it more recently. Best of luck! - Jeff Shebovsky

Surgery Preparation | How to Prepare for Surgery | Health Journeys

http://www.healthjourneys.com/Store/Products/Successful-Surgery-Health-Journeys/29

Learn how to prepare for surgery by using guided imagery from Health Journeys. Let us show you meditation for knee, shoulder or hip surgery recovery.

On March 16, 2015...

Holly Pomeroy posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi Jeff, glad to hear you are still doing great, not that I expect anything less. It's always good to read the updates. Enjoy life, and thanks for all your inspiration!

Like | 1 person likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Holly. Hope you are well.

On March 9, 2015...

Mitch Friedman posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Love it! And love you man. Glad all of us are doing so well.

Like | 1 person likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Mitch. Hope all is well on your end

On March 9, 2015...

Jeff Tressler posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Wow! It seems like it was yesterday (or maybe a year or two ago). You are an amazing person. You are blessed and a blessing to so many in so many ways. You deserve all you have earned, including an Aruba vacation! Enjoy. Jeff

Like | 1 person likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Jeff,
Thanks for your support as always. I really appreciate the prayer you did for my before surgery.

On March 8, 2015...

Brenda and Stuie strauss posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi Jeff
Way to go!
God Bless You
We Love You
Brenda and Stuie

Like | 1 person likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Brenda and Stuie. Hope you are both well and hope to see you soon

On March 8, 2015...

Mollie Renforth posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Jeff,
So glad you're doing great! You were such a tremendous support for my family and me during my surgery. Congrats on your 3 years post Ross Procedure. Mine is in August. So grateful for this journal and for all of the generous people who are on it. Stay healthy!
Your Ross Buddy,
Mollie

Like | 1 person likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Mollie. Hope you are doing well too.

On March 8, 2015...

John posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi Jeff, Do you remember the size of your ascending aorta aneurysm when they recommended surgery? I was recently diagnosed with BAVD, moderate regurgitation, and a 4.9 cm aortic aneurysm, but am getting conflicting advice from the surgeons on when to have surgery. I'm 38 years old and healthy. Any thoughts?

Like | 1 person likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi John, as far as I know the usual triggers for surgery are 5.0 on the ascending aorta and less than 1.0cm sq on the valve area. Either one can trigger a surgical ... Read more

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi John, as far as I know the usual triggers for surgery are 5.0 on the ascending aorta and less than 1.0cm sq on the valve area. Either one can trigger a surgical recommendation and then at the time of surgery they fix both. What is your valve area and mean pressure gradient? On the ascending aorta, 4.9 is pretty darn close to getting a surgical recommendation. Of course I'm not a cardiologist :)

Daniel Spurgeon The three surgeons I saw all used 5.0 for aortic root as a guideline.

On March 7, 2015...

Kathleen F. posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Happy Anniversary Jeff! I hope you are feeling so healthy that you forgot the date! Thanks again for your honest and detailed journal; it was very helpful to me as I prepared for my own Ross Procedure 9 weeks ago with Dr. Stelzer (#567) and now, as I'm going through recovery and starting to be more active. It's nice to feel as if we're not doing this alone. Thanks again!

Like | 1 person likes this

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Kathleen. I'm in Aruba and wifi is not good so couldnt post yesterday for my 3 year anniversary. Glad you are doing well. Recovery goes quick and you make ... Read more

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Kathleen. I'm in Aruba and wifi is not good so couldnt post yesterday for my 3 year anniversary. Glad you are doing well. Recovery goes quick and you make qreat strides quickly. Stelzer was awesome I assume. I'm glad my journal was helpful to you. Keep up the great work and if you need anything don't hesitate to ask.

On October 17, 2014...

Adam Pick posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hey Jeff! Just saw your post to JH and had to send you a quick note. Great to see you back at HVJ. How is your Ross holding up? Everything else going good? Adam

Like | 2 people like this

On March 11, 2014...

Holly Pomeroy posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi Jeff! It was good to read your update and hear how well you are doing. It's hard to believe 2 years have gone by! Wow! So many experiences that have shaped our lives. Thanks for your inspiration and encouragement along the way. You have been a blessing to me and many other HVJ patients!!
Holly

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Holly. Hope all is well on your end.

On March 10, 2014...

Connie Jewell posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

2 yrs. post op. and doing great is GREAT news Jeff!! I'm awaiting my surgery date May the 12th. I'm still trying to decide which way to go. Biological valve, Mechanical valve or Ross Procedure. This is a hard decision to make, I guess one of the hardest decisions of my life so far at soon to be 53 yrs. old. Good luck with you're continued good health post op.

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Connie,
I faced the same very difficult choices. Let me know if you want to discuss anything. If you go Ross, I would ONLY have Dr. Stelzer do it. Get him while ... Read more

Jeffrey Shebovsky Connie,
I faced the same very difficult choices. Let me know if you want to discuss anything. If you go Ross, I would ONLY have Dr. Stelzer do it. Get him while he's still doing it. He's gonna retire in the not too distant future I would think. You would owe it to yourself to go to NY and at least meet him. Once you do, there will be no question who you will have doing your surgery.

On March 9, 2014...

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Thanks Jeff. Glad to hear things are going well. A couple more days and I will be 6 months post-op. Looking forward to reaching the 2 year anniversary like you. Good luck and good health.

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Ernie,
Time flies! Don't rush it. At 6 months you should be doing quite well. I hope that is the case. Good luck to you and thanks for writing.

On March 8, 2014...

Carol Jackson posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Congrats Jeff! I want to thank you for your journal which I thoroughly read before my surgery Oct. 8, 2013. You had such good ideas for me and you were so positive. It is wonderful to feel so good! The best to you!

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Carol (that is my wife's name too). Thanks for the feedback and I am glad my journal helped you out. Glad to see you are doing well too. Best of luck to you.

On March 8, 2014...

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Jeff:

Congratulations on your 2 year anniversary! May this next year be your best year yet.

To continued great health and a wonderful life.

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Jim. Same to you. I see you are doing well.

On March 8, 2014...

Janis Kielbasa posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi Jeff, I'm so happy you are happy & healthy. You were such an inspiration to me and many others. Our little group hit the 2 year mark and still going strong. Continued love, health and happiness for all the years to come, my friend. Cheers.

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Janis. Our little group rocked it! Thank god!

On March 8, 2014...

Adam Pick posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Jeff,

Congrats!!!!

Keep on tickin!

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Adam. Time flies. Had I not read your book and your story, I would not have known about the Ross. Thanks for that, the journal and all you do.

On December 28, 2013...

DVB posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi Jeff, thanks for your update. Sounds like you're good as new. If not better. Best to you in the new year.

Like |

On December 28, 2013...

Janis Kielbasa posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Jeff, Thrilled to read that you are doing so well. I too have been following Rachel's story (saw it on the heart valve face book site). It really gives one pause to realize how blessed we are to have sailed through our surgery and recovery. I wish you continued good health, love and happiness. Have a awesome 2014. Cheers, janis kielbasa

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Janis. We are blessed and can't ever forget that. Best wishes for a happy and healthy new year.

On December 28, 2013...

Susan Smith,pre-op and waiting. posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Jeff, it is always good to hear the success of others as some of us are in the waiting mode. Have a great healthy new year.

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Susan. Best of luck to you. If I can help in any way let me know.

On December 28, 2013...

Jim Jones posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Jeff
So pleased you are doing so well! I just read your journal. It was a pleasure. It is both positive and honest. I had a mitral valve repair by Dr. Adams at Mt. Sinai on 11/05. I smiled when I read your reports from the hospital stay. Every day I saw a large poster of Dr. Stelzer in 7 West as I did my walking rounds. His message was maintain top hygiene! He truly has a wonderful reputation.

I enjoyed reading about your recovery. It helps folks like me who are in the process of healing to know what great health await us. Thank you.

Happy New Year, enjoy baseball and enjoy life!

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Jim,
Thanks for posting. I just posted on your guestbook. Happy new year to you and best of luck in your continued recovery.

On October 13, 2013...

Heather St.Pierre posted a note for Jeffrey that says:

Hi there Jeff

Not sure if you will be on here anytime soon but I wanted to let you know how your story has given me a great peace of mind!

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hello Heather,
Just seeing this now, sorry. I have not checked here in a long time. I am glad my story could help you have peace of mind. I just looked you ... Read more

Jeffrey Shebovsky Hello Heather,
Just seeing this now, sorry. I have not checked here in a long time. I am glad my story could help you have peace of mind. I just looked you up and see your surgery date was for Dec 17th. I don't see any updates since so I wonder what is up. Hope that if you had it done, that all is well. Looks like you were maybe going to have a Ross Procedure?

On March 28, 2013...

Congrats on your 1 year anniversary, Jeff! I don't get on here often enough so I'm glad I saw your update. You and Chris were so significant in helping Jim and me decide on the Ross Procedure. I am forever grateful for your insight and generosity in sharing with us.
I still have your number in my contact info and I am going to surprise you with a call sometime :))
Happy Easter to you and your family. We both have so much for which to be thankful!!!
Mollie

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Mollie. Happy Easter to you. Glad all is well.

On March 19, 2013...

Jeff,

Glad to hear you are doing well. My wife is scheduled for a Ross with Dr. Stelzer next Wednesday. Any advice regarding going into the procedure or for recovery at Mt. Sinai?

Thanks.

Grant Goeglein
grant.goeglein@nmfn.com

Like |

On March 17, 2013...

Almost forgot. Hi and hugs to Carol!

-Mitch

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky OK. Will do

On March 17, 2013...

Way to go brother!!!!! Great update. but more importantly, great reality. We rocked this! Can't wait to see you in May. Time in NYC together, without a surgery (or recovery). What a concept!

-Mitch

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Rocked it we did! Can't wait to see you in NYC. Will be SOOO much different this time. Again, thanks for all your support. You were amazing!

On March 15, 2013...

Glad to hear that you are doing so well! Isn't it great to look back on the last year? My 1 year anniversary is coming up in April and reading your journal and the many others that had surgery during this time was so encouraging and such an inspiration to me. I couldn't have made it through without this website and journal! Wishing you many healthy years ahead!
Holly P

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Holly. It really is great to look back. Life is so normal now as compared to a year ago. It is truly amazing every time I think of it. Thanks for your ... Read more

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Holly. It really is great to look back. Life is so normal now as compared to a year ago. It is truly amazing every time I think of it. Thanks for your support and happy "soon to be one year" to you.

On March 13, 2013...

Jeff, I hit the send button before I signed off. My name is Melinda.

Email me at melindahacker1@gmail.com.

Btw, Adam posted my story on this site back when I became pregnant. You may be able to search this site if you're interested.

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky I will email you and get you my contact info

On March 13, 2013...

Jeff, I would love to meet you and talk about your story. I live in nearby Tampa. I am 43 with a bicuspid aortic valve with a dilated aortic root. I have semi-annual echoes to monitor my condition. My cardiologist thinks I'll be headed for surgery in 2 to 3 years, but we all know that can change real fast. I am leaning towards a bovine replacement, but really like the results I hear about with the Ross procedure.

I was running 4 miles 4-5 times a week until 4 years ago when I got pregnant with my one and only child. I had a high risk pregnancy with my heart condition so my cardiologist said no more running. I can walk or use an elliptical machine. My hope is that one day I will be free to run again.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Like |

On March 11, 2013...

Well, I for one never doubted than you would not pull through your ordeal with flying colors--as they say in South Africa.
Strong in all aspects--thats you.
What we need now, is a small class reunion--you, me, Rich , Tony. Lets set it up.
Call me anytime,
Marc

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thank you Marc. Thanks for all of your support. I truly appreciate it. Hope all is well with you. By the way, pulling through with flying colors is not ... Read more

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thank you Marc. Thanks for all of your support. I truly appreciate it. Hope all is well with you. By the way, pulling through with flying colors is not just a South African saying. I've found myself saying that often throughout my life. I think we do need a small class reunion. I'll get to work on setting something up.

On March 10, 2013...

To one has-been to another....congrats brother! I share all your sentiments and let's continue to keep in touch. We are all part of a special club.
Happy Anniversary Jeff! Keep breathing through your eyelids!

JH Mattingly

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks JH. Your support through this has been priceless. I hope we can meet in person one day. Definitely keep in touch. I'm proud to be part of this special club with you.

On March 8, 2013...

Happy Anniversary Jeff! You did it and you did it right. What a journey. What an inspiration. A zillion happy returns of the day -- DVB

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks DVB. We will always remember you for your great wisdom and your "mysterious" ways. Hope you are well these days.

On March 8, 2013...

Hey Jeff, Happy Anniversary, It sure is nice to be saying this to everyone. I am also coming up to 6 months. Can't believe it has gone by so fast. We all have been so blessed and its wonderful, how lucky we all are. Enjoy life.
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks so much. We really are blessed! How you are doing well. REALLY well.

On March 8, 2013...

Jeff, Happy Anniversary. Needless to say I am thrilled that you are happy and HEALTHY. I knew you'd amaze and inspire us!! Continued blessing for love, health and happiness. Janis Kielbasa

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Janis. How are you? I hope you are well. I just realized I forgot to mention your name in my post. I totally apologize. You were also such a big support and great friend through all of this.

On March 7, 2013...

Happy Anniversary Jeff!! I have a few days before my 1 year anniversary on the 13th. I've been thinking about it a lot the last couple of days. Like you, I'm filled with all sorts of feelings and emotions, mainly gratitude and priviledge to have had such a great outcome. I haven't journaled in a while, sadly it's just not the same part of my life, but then again, maybe not sadly at all. Maybe that's the way it's supposed to be. I check in from time to time just to see how everyone is doing and offer encouragement when I can. Almost all of our "class" has "graduated" now. I decided not to go back to work, am spending my time volunteering in the cardiac rehab at my local hospital. Still get to exercise at a ridiculously low fee, still get to see the "cute little exercise specialist" every day and am really enjoying it. I feel better than I have in years and I wasn't having any symptoms (right). Off all meds except Lipitor and low dose aspirin daily. So life is good! Glad you are doing so well. Still hoping one day to get to meet face to face. I've never been to Disney World, so I feel like I HAVE to do that at least once before I kick off, so maybe I will take my grandkids down sometime this year. If that works out I will give you a call. I'm also determined to get up to NYC and meet that crazy, loveable Mitch! Take care and again, Happy Anniversary!
Linda THE Tiger, aka Linda Dixon, AVR 3/13/12

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Linda. Remember all that worrying we did? (you especially :) Now look at us!! Happy we are all doing so well. You know, I tried to set up a meeting ... Read more

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Linda. Remember all that worrying we did? (you especially :) Now look at us!! Happy we are all doing so well. You know, I tried to set up a meeting with all of us, but some never replied. I wonder if you even got those emails? Anyway, stay in touch and if you do come to Orlando, let me know. Keep up the good work.

On March 7, 2013...

YEA JEFF!! Welcome to the 1 year club brother. Can't wait to get together in NYC in May. Thanks for being there for me during this whole thing. We did it!!!!

Chris

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky We DID do it!! Glad we DID it together.

On March 7, 2013...

You are a true "Brave Heart." Delighted to hear of your progress and well-being. As I try to make known in the St. Francis newsletter, there is life after open-heart surgery.

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky So true. A long healthy life after open heart surgery. Thanks Al

On March 7, 2013...

Way to go, Jeff! What a blessing you have been in our lives! See you in May!

Niki

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Niki. Same here. Looking so forward to having fun with you guys.

On December 10, 2012...

Hey Jeff...love your 9 month update. Just know I am always jealous of you Floridians this time of year...I miss the warm weather already!
Get that toe healed up and get back on the mound bringing the heat!

Happy holidays to you and your family my friend.

JH Mattingly

Like |

Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks JH. You are welcome here anytime if you want to escape the cold. I sent you an email just now as well.

On December 7, 2012...

Hi Jeff, Its nice to hear from you again. I am almost 3 months from surgery and am so glad its over and I feel so great. The holidays do mean a lot more to us now and I am enjoying the moment even if I do over do it a little bit. But I got my reality check and slowed down. Hope you and yours have a wonderful holiday also.
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12

Like |