Kim's Guestbook

Kim Shuba  Thank you Lorraine. Today was the first day of lifted restrictions, I did some sweeping and swiffer mop, started to feel it. Maybe just do a little at a time instead of all at once? It is nice to know I am not alone along with how or what I feel is normal.

Kim Shuba  Ok, well I looked to see if private messages in here, couldn't find it. Check in and parking for surgery- in the garage next to ER. While waiting, Dr. Kathuria will come and talk to you, ask if you have any addition questions and how I am feeling. I told him nervous and scared, He said it is normal and he promises to take good care of me. You will also meet your RN that will be in the operating room, and the anesthesiologist. Then before you know it, being wheeled into the room. I started to tear up, the nurses said I will be ok, the anesthesiologist, said it's going to be ok and here comes my cocktail. that is the last thing I remember until I woke up in ICU. Dr Kathuria checked in everyday, along with one of his assistants, the one I saw was "Bill" he is terrific. They do check in with family and friends while they are waiting, they know what and when. Yes, he does want you up and moving ASAP. First thing was getting me to the chair, then from there, I started walking.

Kim Shuba  Hey, sorry it took me awhile to get back with you. I do not know what size you are but I found some at Catherine's. 91st and Northern shopping center, next to Target.. They have big breasted sizes . I got the one with a zipper front, I went up a size just so it wasn't rubbing against the incision. very comfy. I love it.

Kim Shuba  I am doing well, still a little sore, some days have more energy than others, but I was told that is normal and not to push myself and to listen to my body. How are you? When is your surgery?

Rondus Bennett  Hi Kim...I unfortunately had an accident and broke my lower leg, so I have to wait till it heals to have surgery. ? what was the hardest part of this journey so far?

Kim Shuba  Oh, I am sorry to hear about that. What has Dr. Kathuria said? The anxieties and fears of the unknown. I really do not recall, but I was told that I had a really bad gagging reflex in ICU, due to the breathing tube; they had to give me something to calm it. Recovery, I am today- 3 weeks post op. I saw Dr. Kathuria yesterday. Such a wonderful man, Dr and surgeon. I am done seeing him unless issues with incision, so that was a little sad, the same with Christine. Isn't she fantastic? For the last 3 months, him, Christine, the office became a very big part of my life and now it's done. Hard to explain but I will miss them. The hardest part for me really isn't any pain, soreness, I can deal with that. I have a shower chair I borrowed and use that, I also got a hand held shower head, so easier for me, and just letting the water beat on my shoulders and back helps. The hardest part is people telling me I am not doing enough, I should be stronger, better. I am not healing correctly. Playing with the mind. Dr. Kathuria calmed all that down for me and said I am doing fantastic and not to listen to anyone except for him and other Dr's. Do you have a Facebook? I would like to figure out a way for us to communicate better than only here. Keep me posted and talk to you soon.

Kim Shuba  Let's take this as a good sign, I am from Cleveland, actually the East Side, and yes Clevelander"s understand that one :) I have to be at the hospital at 7am, surgery is at 9:30 Good luck tomorrow and prayers sent.

Michael Zernell  Its too bad your not here we could have recovered together and our families can give each other support

Brenda Bryson  Kim I hope you have a speedy recovery. Prayers coming your way. I too am a Cleveland girl but I live in Wyoming now.

Kim Shuba  I am having my valve replaced and I do not qualify for minimally invasive, Thank you for sharing the video. It was really interesting.

Kim Shuba  After about 10 days being discharged, going out for dinner. I will have to tell my boyfriend that.. A good goal to shoot for. Thank you for your kind words.