Mimi's Guestbook

Richard Munson  I would not even think of this surgery shortening your life span. Maybe lengthening it if you don’t get it ? There are a lot worse ways to shorten your life span. Lightening strike, hit by a fast moving train, a brick falling on your head. 

Ana Brusso  Lol so true Richard. People should read and do research on their surgery, this way they get all the facts. 

Richard Munson  Yes, and lets be honest, nothing in this world is 100% successful , including heart surgery but the odds are way over 90% so that is pretty darn good when you consider. I just had a cortisone shot in my knee and had to sign my life away and that is a very minor procedure.  Before the needle went in i was told about a string of potential side effects. Turned out fine other than the pain as it was injected into my knee. Now i feel great till it wears off and i get another in 6 months. Hoping to avoid a knee replacement before i kick the bucket. 

Rhodie Jacobson  Looks like I am in a very similar boat. It's pretty humbling to see all of the tough folks in this community. The time between the 6 month checks goes very fast. Gives me time to look into area hospitals. I don't know what is an actual symptom and what is just in my head now that I've learned about the symptoms (mainly shortness of breath). I get so much from seeing everyone here support each other though...and I've dug into the heart hospital part of this...as well as the USNEWS rating thing but I don't know if the USNEWS rating is worth anything other than seeing ranges of how many procedures a hospital does. A mind sure can run away with thoughts and it sure is nice to see some great, ongoing success stories

Rose Madura  Hi Mimi and welcome to the site. I was 59 when I had my surgery and not sure I would be here today if I didn't have it. Although, I had complications, it was still very successful and you will do fine. It's hard on the mind to know you have to have surgery but so your diligence and research. The odds are definitely in your favor. Let us know if you have any questions and we'll see you through this. God bless you.

Richard Munson  Well, roadie, there are a list of the top us heart surgery hospitals on line. Cleveland always one but i went to mass general and it was in the top 5. I suspect the top 10 are pretty darn good. Maybe top 15. Then there are breakdowns regarding different heart surgeries. Some might be better at mitral valve, others different. Next in line is the surgeon him or herself. You want one that does your particular issue in his or her sleep. Then there are other factors such as robotic capability, repair vs replace capability. Being in boston, i was lucky. More choices. If you are in pigeon falls population 2 and opie is the mayor it is tougher but worth the research.