Josie Saunders posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith
Got to have my teeth cleaned and a tooth extracted, my doctor and dentist don't no what antibiotics to give me and how much or when have I got to take them before treatment, I had a heart valve replacment and aorta repaired 14 July 2017 can you advise me please xx
Meredith Bray I would find a new dentist, actually! I, like Anna, am prescribed 2000 mg amoxicillin to take 1 hour before my appointment. Your dentist & hygienist really ... Read more
Meredith Bray I would find a new dentist, actually! I, like Anna, am prescribed 2000 mg amoxicillin to take 1 hour before my appointment. Your dentist & hygienist really should know this. Please don't have any dental work done without a pre-med. Perhaps your cardiologist or their nurse can recommend a dentist that has had cardiac patients before.
Susan Lynn You definitely need to find a new dentist. Pre-medication for those with heart conditions has been common protocol for decades in the profession.
Josie Saunders Been trying to get information from my surgeon, but keep waiting for someone to ring me back, a lot of the dentist keep saying they don't do pre med no more ... Read more
Josie Saunders Been trying to get information from my surgeon, but keep waiting for someone to ring me back, a lot of the dentist keep saying they don't do pre med no more
But thank you ladies I will take your advise so you don't have to carry on with the antibiotics after treatment.
Susan Lynn I began my career working for a group of dentists and oral surgeons several decades ago. Over the years, the American Heart Association, has changed their ... Read more
Susan Lynn I began my career working for a group of dentists and oral surgeons several decades ago. Over the years, the American Heart Association, has changed their recommendations about pre-medication to eventually eliminating them - at least for people like me who had mitral valve prolapse. However, since I rarely take antibiotics and my dentist still believed in the value of pre-medication, I continued to do it before each appointment. Now, my cardiologist has informed me, since my surgery, that pre-medication is required and it didn't sound terribly negotiable.
I suspect with all the research about antibiotic-resistant strains of viruses, many people and dentists are opting to forego this process. I am fortunate that my use of antibiotics has been limited to my few dental appointments a year and I felt there was more upside than risk.
Infective endocarditis (IE), also called bacterial endocarditis (BE), is an infection caused by bacteria that enter the bloodstream and settle in the heart lining, a heart valve or a blood vessel. IE is uncommon, but people with some heart conditions have a greater risk of developing it.Dental Procedures and Infective EndocarditisIn the past, patients with nearly every type of congenital heart defect needed to receive antibiotics one hour before dental procedures or operations on the mouth, throat, gastrointestinal genital, or urinary tract. However, in 2007the American Heart Association simplified its recommendations. Today, antibiotics before dental procedures are only recommended for patients with the highest risk of IE, those who have:
Josie Saunders Thanks for that Susan when you read about endocarditis it scares the life out of you, and my brain will look for all the symptoms after, so I'll pre med 1 hour ... Read more
Josie Saunders Thanks for that Susan when you read about endocarditis it scares the life out of you, and my brain will look for all the symptoms after, so I'll pre med 1 hour before do I have to take any more after dental treatment .
On April 8, 2018...
Chris Purvis posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith-
What was the first day, week and month like after for you? Are you also able to exercise with no limitations?
Meredith Bray Hi Chris, I don't remember a whole lot about the time I spent in the hospital. I do remember waking up with the vent tube still in, realizing I made it through ... Read more
Meredith Bray Hi Chris, I don't remember a whole lot about the time I spent in the hospital. I do remember waking up with the vent tube still in, realizing I made it through surgery, and going back to sleep. Best 2 seconds of my entire life! :)
My biggest issue the first few days was breathing deeply. I did NOT want to take a deep breath because I didn't want to hurt myself. At the same time, I was afraid to fall asleep because I was breathing so shallow. I have a cPap machine, and that helped, especially when the nurse hooked up the oxygen for me.
My biggest issue the first week was back pain, and getting in/out of bed. The back pain was alleviated by supporting my body weight while resting - stuffed pillows under my arms, and used a travel pillow under my neck. Then I could relax and get a few hours of good sleep. Getting in & out of bed was a challenge because my core muscles were very weak and sore. I think I could do it myself by week three. However, I still battle insomnia from time to time, and still have moderate difficulty turning over in bed. Yes, even 4 years later.
The first month was consumed with sleeping, walking, and eating. The first day I got home I went for a walk to the end of the driveway and back, then took a 2 hour nap. Even the simplest things required a LOT of energy: showering, + getting dressed + breakfast = 3 hour nap. All the little naps plus the after-effects of the anesthesia meant there was NO WAY I could sleep through the night. I was probably 6 weeks out before I could sleep more than 4 hours. Even today, about 6 hours at a time is my limit.
The thing is, everyone's experience is different. It wasn't as awful and painful as I imagined it would be. You have to be flexible and approach life in an easy way. Like, I did a load of laundry my first week home. I couldn't carry a laundry basket, but I could carry one outfit at a time to the washer. And I used the long BBQ tongs to get the wet clothes in to the dryer. The clothes were all wrinkled though, because I fell asleep before the dryer finished, ha!
I was cleared by cardiac rehab, my cardiologist, and my surgeon at 12 weeks to go out and do whatever I wanted. The only limits I have are the ones I've created in my own mind. Prior to surgery, if my heartrate went over 120 I felt a sense of dread and doom, I was very uncomfortable. Now, I don't even think about it. I ride roller coasters, kayak, horseback ride, mountain hiking...
That was probably too many words, more than you wanted. I ramble. What else?
-Meredith
On April 9, 2017...
Terrie Hodges posted a note for Meredith that says:
hey, Metedith...I wrote a message on your post where u answered.my question💟
Marie Myers posted a note for Meredith that says:
I am having the On-X verses tissue valve debate right now. It sounds like you have no problems with regulating your INR. Are the dietary restrictions an issue? I am 63 going on 53... Had decided on On-X but today am having doubts. Any light you can shed on this ,I would really appreciate. Marie Myers
Meredith Bray Everybody has occasional issues. My personal experience: It took me about 3 months after surgery to really get solidly consistent with my doses and INR. I was ... Read more
Meredith Bray Everybody has occasional issues. My personal experience: It took me about 3 months after surgery to really get solidly consistent with my doses and INR. I was working in a warehouse throwing boxes around and driving a truck/bus, and consistently had bruises up and down my arms. Running my hip in to a counter would leave bruises that lasted for weeks. A year after surgery I was told by the manufacturer and the surgeon that I could maintain a lower INR. After an adjustment period, I stopped having the bruises.
I eat dark greens 3-5 times a week, just like I did before surgery. One of the reasons I struggled right after surgery was my eating habits were thrown off by the surgery. As long as you eat a consistent diet, your INR manager should dose you to your diet, and not make any changes to your diet/lifestyle.
I am confident that my valve will outlive me.
What other questions do you have?
-Meredith
Marie Myers Can I ask your age at the time of surgery?
Marie Myers You made a good choice for your age group. I am wondering if ,at my age of 63, I should just go with the tissue and hope for 17 years plus TAVR if necessary...
Marie Myers Is there any way to find out how many patients in the U.S. Are able to use the lower INR values?
Meredith Bray I think the On-X is the only valve approved for the lower INR, and it's 3-6 months post op. You could ask to speak with the coumidin nurse at your cardiologists ... Read more
Meredith Bray I think the On-X is the only valve approved for the lower INR, and it's 3-6 months post op. You could ask to speak with the coumidin nurse at your cardiologists practice. I see my nurse every 5 weeks. She's much more informed than many doctors and surgeons.
On November 21, 2016...
Eddie Patton posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hey good to see you active again. Hope all is well!
Hi Merideth thank you so much for taking the time to give me your experience on your choice I do believe that you as you said the choice is a personal one I want to be able to stay active and live my life the way I do now it's just scary as you very well know. I don't like the idea of having surgery again and of course Coumadin is scary if you don't know what it's all about. I thank you again for telling me, you do live an active life and that actually makes me think twice about a mechanical valve. I don't know yet when my surgery will be as I mentioned I am on a three-month echo pattern to see how things progress . I have no symptoms right now so they don't feel that surgery is an option at the moment but it may be in the near future. What kind of valve do you have? My surgeon prefers the St Jude? I have researched different types of valves but can't really find much information on any difference between any of them. I guess it's just really a matter of preference of the physician Saint Jude is a big one in the Boston area. If you have any links I can look up I would appreciate it. Again thank you for your time. All on this site are absolute Angels. Civita
Larry Latimer posted a note for Meredith that says:
Thanks for your comments. I especially enjoy success stories with the On-x valve. I'm a little slow on my response since I'm still trying to figure out how to send messages. The "I'm not a robot" block throws me sometimes, and the time out feature also messes me up. I think I have sent the message but it doesn't show up. Maybe this time it will work. I'm usually pretty good with computers, but horrible with "facebook" type pages I guess.
Meredith Bray I have a conflict when I have to check the "I am not a robot" box because that was a joke one of my friends made before my surgery - that with my mechanical ... Read more
Meredith Bray I have a conflict when I have to check the "I am not a robot" box because that was a joke one of my friends made before my surgery - that with my mechanical valve, I am PART robot now, haHA!
I'm happy to answer any questions for you that I can regarding surgery and the On-X valve.
-Meredith
Jeff V. posted a note for Meredith that says:
Meredith, I see you are about at the 2-year mark for your On-X AV. Have you been pleased with your valve choice? We read a lot about the difficult choice in selecting a valve at the front end of surgery but I am curious about your opinion with 2 years under your belt. Could you share your "current" pros/cons as an experienced mechanical valve recipient? Thanks!
Meredith Bray Well...I don't really have anything to compare it to other than my bicuspid & stenotic natural valve. It ticks, I can hear it sometimes, sometimes I can't. ... Read more
Meredith Bray Well...I don't really have anything to compare it to other than my bicuspid & stenotic natural valve. It ticks, I can hear it sometimes, sometimes I can't. Sometimes people around me can hear it, but my sister can't hear it even with a stethoscope. I received a letter from On-X stating the FDA has approved a lower INR for On-X aortic valve recipients. It's on file at my cardiologist's office. After an adjustment period of about 4-6 months post-op, I get my blood tested every 5 weeks by a nurse who does a finger-stick. It's not a full blood-draw, and I get immediate feedback. I chose mechanical over tissue for several reasons. The main reason was I wanted to avoid another surgery if at all possible. I understand there are no guarantees against surgery, but I DID understand that if I chose a tissue valve at my age (42 at the time), I was guaranteeing myself a second surgery, as research indicates that tissue valves do not last as long in younger patients. My surgeon left the choice up to me, and told me that if I chose tissue to avoid "blood thinners', he would most certainly be seeing me in 5-15 years. The worst problem I've had is after a vacation where I didn't eat my usually dark greens that i am accustomed to, and had several nights of cocktails. I do bruise easier than I did before, but it's not an issue, I'd rather have a few extra bruises than another surgery. I haven't changed my diet or my lifestyle, I have a very understanding nurse who is up to date on any food restrictions (all things in moderation is her motto!) .
I love to talk about myself. What other questions do you have?
-Meredith
Clare Auten I am right there with Meredith. I celebrated 2 years in Jan with my On-X valve. My warfarin has been consistent. Get my INR checked every 5 weeks. Same ... Read more
Clare Auten I am right there with Meredith. I celebrated 2 years in Jan with my On-X valve. My warfarin has been consistent. Get my INR checked every 5 weeks. Same dosage for the past year. No restrictions on activity. Surgeon did say to try not to cut off a toe when I mow the yard. ;)
On October 20, 2015...
Sophia Ridley posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith, I'm new to social media so I posted the reply on my own guest book!!! Oops!
I live in London, UK and my hospital is The Royal Brompton. I'm not sure what is available in Florida. Bringing your first hand experience will be so valuable to your patients. When I met with a GP whom had had OHS, it was a relief as I could talk more freely.
Meredith Bray it's always easier to talk to someone who's "part of the club," isn't it? Thanks for your response!
On September 17, 2015...
Helen Yade posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith,,Helen Here..I live in Brooksville fl not far from you! It sure is a small world@ I am probably gonna have the surgery done at Prpin Heart Hosp ,near the USF school..I also LOVE to kyak and cant wait to get back on the water!! Maybe get together sometime!! Well talk soon,,,Regards Helen
Meredith Bray Helen, nice to meet you! I just signed up to "Follow You" so you can see my email address. PLEASE ask me any questions you might have! This site is a wonderful ... Read more
Meredith Bray Helen, nice to meet you! I just signed up to "Follow You" so you can see my email address. PLEASE ask me any questions you might have! This site is a wonderful resource. i used it mainly as a way to communicate with friends, family, & coworkers. I've also met some people who will probably be life-long friends.
Again, feel free to ask any questions. Everyone that has been through surgery has experienced the emotions and anxiety of the weeks and months (and for some, years) leading up to surgery. You are not alone!
Meredith
Helen Yade HI Thanks for the reply..I have been reading a lot of great stories..I am maybe going in on the 2nd of Oct..but not sure yet? Found out that I am a little anemic ... Read more
Helen Yade HI Thanks for the reply..I have been reading a lot of great stories..I am maybe going in on the 2nd of Oct..but not sure yet? Found out that I am a little anemic so we dealing with that,,did you go with a tissue valve or a Mechanical?? It seems to be the hardest decision to make !! I Know you live close ..maybe would be fun to meet for lunch when your up to it..I will keep in touch and let you know when the big day is! Hugs Helen
Helen Yade ps would like your email.adress? not sure where to find it? I also am thinking of the On-x valve..we will see..! Thx Helen
Helen Yade not sure how to follow someone.? new to this site..? thx again Helen
On July 31, 2015...
Jeanette Davidson posted a note for Meredith that says:
Thx Meredith! I love my starfish shoes , they make me happy. Yeah I did my nails with that crazy color my doctor even complimented me. It helps me to to spruce up a little bit to feel stronger. I hope you're doing well on your journey !💞
Mary Case posted a note for Meredith that says:
Thanks, Meredith, for your very thoughtful note. My husband and I are very close. We are both retired. Jim is 10 years older. He will be my main caregiver. (I don't want anyone else, ha.) I have always been very healthy and strong. I am hoping with right side surgery to be up and going in a short time. Guess I will have to wait and see.😊
Mary Case posted a note for Meredith that says:
Meredith, my sister and my mother will be with my husband the day of surgery. My dad passed in 2011. My mother is the one we have to keep from stressing everyone
out. My sister is in charge of her. Ha. My husband and I have close friends and neighbors so we have lots of support. My husband is very positive and a strong Christian. he will be calling friends and family in the evenings so I think that will help.
Thanks for your kindness.
Meredith Bray My surgery was on a Wednesday. He took off Wed, Thurs, and Fri. He went home every night. I came home Sunday. My sister came the first week, my mother the ... Read more
Meredith Bray My surgery was on a Wednesday. He took off Wed, Thurs, and Fri. He went home every night. I came home Sunday. My sister came the first week, my mother the second week, and my brother the third week. By the time brother left, I was READY for some alone time!
Anyway, my guy and I had a plan for the waking up from surgery. I wanted him to hold my hand, tell me I had surgery, and everything is ok. He says he did, but I really don't remember.
There some pretty serious prayer warriors on this site, I'll send mine up for you two as well.
Peace
Meredith
On March 5, 2015...
Daddy and Jan posted a note for Meredith that says:
We are so proud and HAPPY, that you are so HEARTY, and that you are HEALTHY enough to be with our family, with so much freedom from anxiety. Nice going kiddo.
Love ya, Auntie C posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hey Mere, so glad to hear you are doing so well. It doesn't seem possible it has been a year since your surgery. How time flies when you are healing and getting back to a normal life. So happy for you and David.
Suzanne Kosakowski posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith just thought I'd check in to see how you are feeling. Wondering if you are handling the anxiety on your own.I went to the doctor and agreed to take a med. for my depression. Can't seem to get passed it on my own. Waiting to see if it helps. I hate feeling this way
Meredith Bray I'm taking extra vitamin C and spending as much time in the sunshine as I can. I'm also starting to be more active - parking farther wawy from teh building, ... Read more
Meredith Bray I'm taking extra vitamin C and spending as much time in the sunshine as I can. I'm also starting to be more active - parking farther wawy from teh building, going for a brisk walk (almost a powerwalk!) during breaktime. I still obsess over every little twinge, and am planning to talk to my primary doctor tomorrow, unless he seems rushed. Keep me posted on how your meds work!
On October 24, 2014...
Terrie Syvertsen posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hello Meredith- Just a note to say I am thinking of you. Hope you are doing well and that you continue to get more and more pleasure out of the place you have come from with your surgery. I always have been inspired by your zest for life and positive attitude. Trying to do the same here in Calif. and looking forward to settling into my kayak this summer and exploring all the lakes near our home hear in Manteca. Getting stronger every day and finding new creative ways to get into trouble making one mess in my work room after the other. Working on being able
to print early into the spring and can't wait for all of the things I can get back to.
Especially my outdoor bike rides. Hope this finds you Happy as ever! Terrie
Barbara Colvin posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith - So glad to hear that you are doing so well, especially that you are back in church and enjoying life. I am also doing well - tomorrow will be 7 months since my surgery. I tell people that I am 110%. I am feeling so much better and doing so much more than I was able to do before surgery. You are able to express yourself better than I am - I have not done an update to my journal for quite a while.
Terrie posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hello Meredith! Terrie here. I spent over 40 minutes composing a special post for you in celebration of "YOU" and all your accomplishments and how much I admire and appreciate all you have done and are doing. I then posted and didn't do something right and it didn't post and has now disappeared. I think I didn't verify which I am not used to doing on this site so 40 minutes of wonderful things I wanted you to know about yourself went up in cyber space? I tried and have to go now as I can't sit at the computer any more right this minute but wanted you to know how proud I am of how much you have shared with so many of us which has been crucial to our getting ready for and helped us along post-op. You helped me through some things prior to surgery that set my head in the right place and I want you to know through your humor and faith you are a shining example of all that is fine to be "human"! Proud of you Heart Sister and looking forward to hearing, sharing and learning more from your journey. By the way, still love the kayaking photos!!!!!!! Love to you, many prayers as well to continued recovery! Terrie
Meredith Bray I'm going to Busch Gardens this weekend to ride their new drop tower, Falcon's Fury. My surgeon likes thrill rides also, and I'm sending him a picture of me riding it :)
On July 28, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Meredith that says:
Good morning Meredith-
I have been reading about your journals and posts for quite awhile and really appreciated your direct approach with all of us in our community.
I have enjoyed reading your posts to help educate those of us who haven't had surgery yet and want you to know you helped me keep focus on where this has been heading(surgery). I am writing this morning to ask if it would be possible for you to write me so that I can ask a couple of questions?
(tsyvertsen1@sbcglobal.net) I would appreciate it. Take Care-
Rebecca posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith
Just wanted to say that your journals entries have really helped. I've just read them through again today as my surgery is on Wednesday for mechanical valve replacement and so it helps me to read through your journey as it was so positive and now you sound like you're having a ball.
I hope I'm as strong and lucky as you. Xxx
Meredith Bray If it helps, I viewed my surgery as "The Day on Which Everything Can Only Get Better." It isn't strength and luck, it's hope and faith. Do you have a journal?
On July 9, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Meredith that says:
Meredith-
Your "Summer vacation" post is beautiful! Thank you for sharing as it
speaks of the light at the end of the tunnel!
Continue to post and be well.
So good to read of your recovery process! Take care-
Victor Williams posted a note for Meredith that says:
Thank you Meredith!!! Your response already makes me feel more encouraged! You seem like a really awesome lady! Looking forward to sharing in your thoughts and advices. :-) ...
Meredith Bray Well, your fear is NOT irrational, there's certainly a crap-ton of stuff to be scared of! It's amazing what faith can bring you through. It was about a week ... Read more
Meredith Bray Well, your fear is NOT irrational, there's certainly a crap-ton of stuff to be scared of! It's amazing what faith can bring you through. It was about a week before my surgery when I started getting less anxious about the surgery, and more anxious about just getting it over with. I still don't like to think a lot about the surgery, which is great because I don't remember very much about that week. Faith is a great travel companion, and when you add in science, ain't nothin' gonna stop ya!
I subscribed to your journal, so you have my email address if you have any questions. I actually have a really great resource for heart patients if you want want to drop me a line. It was kind of my "haven" away from friends, family, and coworkers, a place where I could rationalize my fears and ask really gross questions that my coworkers didn't need to hear about. It's all heart patients, and a few caregivers.
Surgery and recovery will be easier than you think. From what i gather of your athletic lifestyle, I imagine rehab will be the toughest part for you - going to the gym and only using a recumbent bike and a treadmill the first time, ha!
Please ask any questions you have - no question is too silly or unimportant. (ie yes the toothpaste in the hospital sucks, bring your own)!
On May 31, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hello Meredith! Hope you are doing well and wanted you to know my heart Cath went well and I chose an uneventful "Bed Pan Procedure" that also went well as I had read about your "episode" and it made clear to me the choice I would make and I made it Ha, Ha, Ha.It It was not as bad as my imagination had projected and I am glad it is one more step closer to actual surgery to prepare my "beautiful heart".
Have to go make a cup of tea and relax with my Husband and Hunter and Kat. Too many ands! I am still tired as I got back around 7 p.m from the procedure.
Take care and keep doing well!
Ruth posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith,
I just saw your post on my guestbook page. It's good to hear your are back working? Yes, thank you for all your advice with the insurance company. Looks like I'm going to battle hard with them. What is your friend's name that lives in Sierra Vista. This is such a small city, I just might know her. ha ha
Again, thanks for everything!
Meredith Bray His name is Todd Anderson, he's a security officer at the college.
On May 27, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hello there. Just wanted to tell you I appreciated checking out your journaling this morning while I was having a cup of tea.
I especially liked hearing of your cardiac cath procedure early on as I am scheduled for May 30th(Friday). Now I will go into the cath lab asking where the nearest bed pan is instead of thinking of the photo of my husband and I out kayaking on Whiskeytown lake! ha ha? I will think of your journal as I wait the hours until I can hopefully go home!!! Take care.
Meredith Bray How was it? I had one cath experience that was torture... It was really awful. And I had one that was a total non-event. I hope yours was relatively easy!
On May 24, 2014...
Michael Stafford posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith, glad your doing so well. I to am going threw the Cardiac guys from Mortan Plant. My surgery is on the 9th of June, I'm 32 and have the same problem as you plus I need a aortic root fixed. I too am a believer now in Prayer and science. I'm in New Port Richey and was hoping to talk to you about your surgery and all if you dont mind. Kinda scared over here! Well have a great day!
Meredith Bray Absolutely! My email is MEREDITHLBRAY @ hot mail .com. I look forward to talking with you!
On May 22, 2014...
Ruth Valenzuela posted a note for Meredith that says:
I had been wondering how you were doing and your report sounds so promising. You have really encouraged me! My appointment for my echocardiogram was cancelled again so instead of tomorrow going as planned, I'll have mine on the 6th of June. I still don't have symptoms so I'm hoping I have more time... Please take care!
Meredith Bray Prayer and science, working together! I'm confident that if I had opted for surgery closer to home I would not have recovered so quickly! I still have a ways ... Read more
Meredith Bray Prayer and science, working together! I'm confident that if I had opted for surgery closer to home I would not have recovered so quickly! I still have a ways to go, but the care I received during the surgery (only on "The Machine" for 40 minutes!) and post-op made all the difference in the world. Thank you for all the prayers!
On April 20, 2014...
Love ya, Auntie C posted a note for Meredith that says:
Mere, so glad to hear how well you are doing. Hope you had a good Easter Day.
Meredith Bray Thanks, Auntie C! I'm feeling better than I deserve to feel. We went to church, watched some hockey, went for a walk, had a nice dinner - a pretty typical ... Read more
Meredith Bray Thanks, Auntie C! I'm feeling better than I deserve to feel. We went to church, watched some hockey, went for a walk, had a nice dinner - a pretty typical Sunday. I'm itching to get back to work already! Love you!
On April 20, 2014...
Valerie Bush posted a note for Meredith that says:
Meredith,
Glad to hear you are doing so well!! Happy Easter and continued healing.
Miss seeing you at Suncoast Bronze!
Meredith Bray Thanks Valerie, I'm looking forward to ringing again next fall. We'll see you in a few weeks at the concert!
On April 20, 2014...
Uncle Skippy posted a note for Meredith that says:
Sounds like your getting along fine. I was the youngest in my rehab group..48, everybody else was in their 60s. But the therapists move me along a lot quicker but I was doing 3 days a week (hurray for being a veteran, no cost for 12 weeks) after 6 weeks they moved me to a weight machine....new muscles to hurt all over. Just don't over do it, you'll start feeling like you can do anything and want to move along faster....don't.... until they tell you.
Meredith Bray I always want to over-do it! And boy, do I pay for it the next day! Right now I'm on the NuStep, recumbent bike, hand-bike, and treadmill. I'm not looking ... Read more
Meredith Bray I always want to over-do it! And boy, do I pay for it the next day! Right now I'm on the NuStep, recumbent bike, hand-bike, and treadmill. I'm not looking forward to the weights. I like the classes at rehab also - stress relief, nutrition, etc. I've been initially approved for 10 visits, and my fingers are still crossed for a total of 36 visits. I'm going 3 days a week. If I don't get approved for any more visits after 10, I'm going to push to be released to work. It's getting kinda old, not having a regular schedule and not going to work. Love you!
On March 31, 2014...
tracy west posted a note for Meredith that says:
hi Meredith's .glad to here you are doing fbetter. good luck
Darryl posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi.... So glad you are doing so well.... I am to but not yet confirmed as my big check up is next Wednesday. I do have the oddest sensation that everything is loose under my rib cage .... Has anyone ever mentioned that sensation in any conversation you have had or read about? Good luck with your echo next week... By the way, I had a cow valve and they didn't put me on any blood thinners nor have they tested me... Strange how different places have different ways of doing things!
Meredith Bray I feel sloshy when I lay on my side. I have a mechanical valve, so I get thinners for the rest of my life. I have heard a few others mention the sloshy/looseness.
On March 29, 2014...
Lee posted a note for Meredith that says:
Good news is great news . It's wonderful to hear of quality time spent with your family members as I'm experiencing it my self first hand .I just had my cataract surgery . All is well . Sure enjoy hearing from you on this guest book . So happy things are good for you and David . Continue your progress .
Susan Smith posted a note for Meredith that says:
Meredith you are my inspiration. I bet (no money) that you are back to work before the 30th. Keep us all posted as you continue the journey.
Kathy & Greg Sprissler posted a note for Meredith that says:
So glad to hear your progress is progressing...thoughts & prayers always for you & David...Mom truly enjoyed seeing you & your Mom last week...a real treat...
Meredith Bray It was a treat for me, as well. Looking forward to seeing Raimie on a regular basis!
On March 28, 2014...
Clare posted a note for Meredith that says:
Glad to hear things are going well. I would love to hear about the On-X ring because that is the type of valve I have too.
Meredith Bray http://www.onxlti.com
I participated in a pre- and post- op survey/research for onx, and they sent me a ring of carbon fiber and a T-shirt.
On March 22, 2014...
Carrie posted a note for Meredith that says:
Wow 0.78 miles today. That is awesome. Soon you will have to go clothes shopping for smaller sizes. I l9ve you. Enjoy your week with Mark.
paul posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi, David was just here and showed me your page have marked as a favorite so i can get back easier...... so glad to hear you are doing well will start reading when i stop here.
Deena posted a note for Meredith that says:
Way to go Meredith! It sounds like you are on the road to a full recovery. Please don't rush it, we need you back here fully healed and ready to drive that bus!!!
Kathy/Greg Sprissler posted a note for Meredith that says:
The best medicine is "normal"...getting back to one's "normal"...so glad you have such wonderful support...prayers on wings for you & David...& so glad you are progressing so well...thanx for the journal updates...
kay posted a note for Meredith that says:
So happy to get this update. Sounds like your progress is steady. I don't quite understand about the anticoagulant problem, hope that is just a temporary situation. Glad that you are surrounded by so many loving arms. What a wonderful feeling that is. Take care and do as your told, you don't want to screw up now. Thanks for thinking of all of us who are still praying for you!!!
Barbara posted a note for Meredith that says:
Shouldn't you be in bed at 9:32? I heard that a drug is given during surgery to induce amnesia, maybe that's why your memory is a little foggy. We'll keep the lights on for you at GSI, so take your time healing.
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Got to have my teeth cleaned and a tooth extracted, my doctor and dentist don't no what antibiotics to give me and how much or when have I got to take them before treatment, I had a heart valve replacment and aorta repaired 14 July 2017 can you advise me please xx
But thank you ladies I will take your advise so you don't have to carry on with the antibiotics after treatment.
I suspect with all the research about antibiotic-resistant strains of viruses, many people and dentists are opting to forego this process. I am fortunate that my use of antibiotics has been limited to my few dental appointments a year and I felt there was more upside than risk.