Mitch's Heart Valve Journal

Jeffrey Shebovsky posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch,
Thanks for the great update. So happy for you. Keep up the great work and so thankful that we became friends through this. Please call me next time you are in Florida.
Jeff

Sylvia Woolworth posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch, Happy Anniversary, 5 Years. I'm coming up on 9 years in April. Cycling sounds good, but not good in the winter. So try swimming, less impact, and great for circulation. There is also a lot of exercises you can do in the water. Happy about your love life, it is always good to have a partner. We celebrated 60 years last June.

Peter willard posted a note for Mitch that says: Mitch are you o.k. and you email me back.

Peter willard posted a note for Mitch that says: Mitch I had a cow valve put in February 2010. at 67 and I am 73 and work out with light weights 6 days a week. How long did they tell you how long our valves will last.I know Adam Pick and Arnold S. had the Ross operation maybe that would of been better and last longer.

Jim Smith posted a note for Mitch that says: Mitch,
Great to hear from you, and to hear that you're going strong. Hard to believe it's been just over 4 years since we have our surgeries in NYC. I'm feeling great. For exercise, I'm hiking a great deal, but have not returned to distance running on a regular basis. This term, I'm teaching my school's semester-abroad program in Oxford, England -- which Donna and I are enjoying so much. Let's keep in touch - take care. Jim Smith

Donna Smith posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch! Just read your latest entry in your journal because you're featured in Adam's newsletter. I am so, so happy for you--and your heart was truly touched in every way! I can't tell you how much your presence and friendship meant to Jim and me during his "spring break" at Mt. Sinai! He's doing well--he will have to update you with the details of his progress so far. Lots of love from Athens, Georgia--well, actually, Oxford England for two more weeks--Jim's been teaching at St. Anne's since January. A great place to just walk and take in people, places, and wildlife. God bless!

Linda H and Elsie posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch, Glad everything is working out for you including love. Well except for the ankle. It seems like I have been starting to hear of things, valves starting to go a little. I guess Elsie is ok. Last Feb the doctor said it looked pretty good even thou I do get out of breath sometimes. Guess its to be expected. Enjoy seeing you on FB too. Congrats on your new lady friend, hope it all works out for you both. So until later my friend.

Janis Kielbasa posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch, so glad to see you are doing well. Running marathons and falling in love proof your heart is working 100%. Cheers my friend and continued good health. All the best. Janis Kielbasa

Heidi posted a note for Mitch that says: Beyond impressed with all the love and support that you give everyone here and at home. You are a rock star! Keep sending those heart emojis, they always make me smile!

Adam Pick posted a note for Mitch that says: Mitch! Love the update! You rock!!! Happy 4th!!!

Sylvia Woolworth posted a note for Mitch that says: Good to hear from you and best to you with your new lady.
Take one day at a time.
Sylvia Woolworth

Jeff Shebovsky posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch,
Great to hear your update. So sorry to hear about your ankle. Seems you have been somewhat plagued with musculoskeletal injuries, particularly involving the lower extremity (LOL). I'm turning 50 next month so I feel your pain buddy. The body can't take it like it used to that's for sure. I guess the news about the little bit of narrowing of the valve certainly it's shocking to you like the doctor said I guess not really unexpected. I'm sure you have many, many, more years of running and doing what you want with that valve. Anyway, keep living life doing what you're doing. Great to hear about the new romance in your life too.
Jeff Shebovsky

Amnon Meisels posted a note for Mitch that says: Hello Mitch,
I read your journal this morning while preparing my 10am class.
It's my 9th week since AVR (bovine like yours) and I feel well enough to walk 5Km daily.
Running is still ahead of me, all I dare do is run 2x3 min. during my brisk walk.
However, I am 20 years older than you and only ran 10Km annually in the last 3 years.
So, I am trying to take your example but adjust it to my age and state.
Thanks for your wonderful spirit.
Amnon

brad posted a note for Mitch that says: Mitch. First congrats. I am in the same boat as you. Sitting a 6 weeks post op right now. Did you notice pain in your heart when you first began running again?

Linda H and Elsie posted a note for Mitch that says: Good news Mitch, Good luck with your marathon and watch those leg and foot bones. They have to carry you any where you go. Hope you win.

Pat posted a note for Mitch that says: That's great news Mitch! Good luck with your training! You are truly an inspiration!

Sylvia Woolworth posted a note for Mitch that says: Go Mitch, so glad all is well.

Jeff posted a note for Mitch that says: Great news Mitch! Happy to hear

Jeff Shebovsky. posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch,
Time sure does fly. Glad you are doing well overall except for the afib and of course the foot fracture. At first I thought you were speaking about the same fracture you had last year but after reading this I'm realizing it's a whole different thing. Sounds like you're back to running and that's a good thing. Amazing how our priorities and things change after heart surgery. Now we are talking about for the fractures and marathons. Anyway, glad you're doing well valve brother and I'm always grateful for your support and glad we went through this at the same timeframe together.

Kathleen F. posted a note for Mitch that says: Happy 3rd birthday! I just read your journal, after seeing your name all over this site in other people's journals (I had read about Jeff S. and Chris D. who were also at Mount Sinai, where I just had my Ross Procedure). Thank you for sharing your experiences, especially about deciding to go to rehab. My doctors also told me it was not necessary and I could work out on my own, but I think I could benefit from being monitored while I get the confidence to push myself again, and I was glad to see you felt the same way, and got a lot out of it too. Did you research cardiac rehab facilities in NYC, or just go to your hospital's program? I'm researching them now and would love some input.
I also hope to be out running with the NYRRC again. Did you take the running class with them, or run with a club? Pre-surgery, I was taking a NYRRC class, and in fact, my room at Mount Sinai overlooked the oval loop where we ran 600m intervals (just above 97th St.) It helped to have that familiar view, and I hope to be able to do it again by the summer.
Congratulations again on your progress, and I hope your "software" issue goes away soon!

Debbie posted a note for Mitch that says: Always there for you, my friend! I can't believe it's been 3 years! XO

sarahcaspi@yahoo.com posted a note for Mitch that says: I found your blog before my aortic replacement surgery in June 2013. I was impressed by your post op running. I decided for my one year anniversary to take up running. For my second anniversary I will run my first 5km with my running partner, my 12 year old son! Thank you!

Sylvia Woolworth posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch,
Happy Birthday to your operation. I will be 6 years April 17th and doing okay for a gal who will be 80 this year. As far as the Afib, has anyone said to cut back on the caffeine? My husband is 85, has Afib, takes Coumadin, but has been off caffeine for a long time and is still walking and doing much better than most guys 85. So hang in there and enjoy life.

Linda H and Elsie posted a note for Mitch that says: Happy Birthday Mitch and to your barnyard valve. lol. Glad you are still doing great. Gotta watch those sports though. Doesn't seem like it has been 3 years already. Wow how time does fly or in your case run by. Take care friend.

Maddy Kiersh posted a note for Mitch that says: Congrats Mitch.....Warren and I are so happy for you in your life's journey....stay well and enjoy!

Adam Pick posted a note for Mitch that says: Hey Mitch! Just saw you back at HVJ and had to say... HI!!!! Still doing half marathons? I hope all is great with you!!!! And, as always, thannnnnnnks for your support of our community!

Sean O'Brien posted a note for Mitch that says: Having the same surgery in 5 weeks-hope to replicate your success in running a half post operation. Thank you for sharing your story.

Sean O'Brien
Quincy, MA

Janis Kielbasa posted a note for Mitch that says: I have been thinking of you knowing your 2 year mark was soon. You have been an inspiration, a shoulder and a friend to me and so many others. I am so happy you are well. We began this journey just months apart and both blessed to have come out strong and healthy. It is a tribute to our skilled doctors, our tenacious spirit, witty humor and kick ass attitude!! I wish you continued health, love and happiness in all the years to follow, my friend. Happy 2 year Anniversary. Cheers.

DVB posted a note for Mitch that says: Dude!

Ain't it grand you're doing so well you can cause serious damage from too much athletics?

Damage itself not so grand.

Just goes to show:

NOT LIMITED BY (PREVIOUSLY) WONKY HEART

Many happy returns of the day,

Linda H and Elsie posted a note for Mitch that says: Hey Mitch, I was just thinking about you the other day, thinking it was about the 2 year point. Well Happy Birthday. Now you guys have to slow down I quit breaking bones. We all might be acting like we are 2 again but Mother Nature says otherwise. Anyway glad you are doing so good. Until later.

Tom in KC posted a note for Mitch that says: Mitch,
I had the same surgery on Dec 27, 2013. Valve lead with bovine tissue and aorta and root replaced with Dacron. At home recovering. Doing cardio rehab 3 mornings per week (except today -snowed in). Never had any noticeable symptoms, but knew about it since birth. Good to see more longer term updates. There are soo many from the last 2 to 3 months.
Tom

Jeff Shebovsky posted a note for Mitch that says: Way to go Mitch. Happy anniversary. Proud of you. As always. Now stop overdoing everything you attempt!! Love the Jimmy Cliff reference....I think I've heard that somewhere before :)

Jeff Pheffer posted a note for Mitch that says: Hey Mitch. Sounds great. Those oRTHO injuries are not caused by the heart issues but make you think about the other forms of cardio/ competition. Listen to your body. After my surgery (2.5 years) I just couldn't get back into running especially racing. I now run 30 min walk 30. For a road bike . Did 30 miles over the weekend. Glad to hear your tests are all strong. Keepitup. How's the snow??

Stuart Kovensky posted a note for Mitch that says: Way to go, its amazing how time flies...

I am so incredibly happy to hear how well you are going. Your heart is great, now if we can only find Girardi's equivalent to give you a labotomy to get ride of that part of our brains that keeps making us want to do more and hurt ourselves......

Congrats, you deserve to be doing so well and keep it up

Jimmy Johnson posted a note for Mitch that says: Wat to go Bro!! You have ROCKED these last 2 years and continue lead the way for myself and countless others.


My 2 years are approaching so and it feels great.

Chuck H posted a note for Mitch that says: Way to go Mitch!!

So, you've gotten fixed and created stress fractures. I got fixed and screwed up my shoulder.

I still say to anyone that asks how I feel -- I had no idea that 'normal' feels this good!!

Glad you're feeling great!!

Heather St.Pierre posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi MITCH

YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW EXCITED I WAS TO READ YOUR STORY......especially when I read that you ran a half 8months post- op. I am missing my running like crazy and all I needed was some reassurance that I will do it again after surgery!!!

John O\'Neill posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch
Long before OHS I learned I had to do cross training to stop beating my self up. I now swim up to two miles three days a week to wash away the run and bike pain. It put an end to the injuries also. I may now skip a run or bike session but, almost never, a swim. I also have learned triathlons are a lot more fun than road races.
After a momentary loss of vision in one eye my sports cardiologist, after a thorough checkup, said to stay with the sprint distances for a while before moving up to Olympic distance. So hit the pool to stay fit while you heal.
John O'Neill

Jim Jones posted a note for Mitch that says: Mitch
How does it feel to be reporting on a running injury?! I have been a runner for 46 years and know exactly what an injury does to a runner ramping up for the big race. Mitch, your journal is inspiring. Thank you so much. After years of watchful waiting, I will be visiting Mt. Sinai and Dr. David Adams in November for a mitral valve repair. I continue to run now but hope to follow your example post surgery and run more. Heal fast!

Linda H and Elsie posted a note for Mitch that says: Hey Mitch, I have missed everyone.for a while. My computer had heart failure so now Im on a new one trying to figure it out lol. Ok have you ever heard of walk don't run? lol. Anyway glad you are still doing so good. Would you believe next month is my big month? Just cant believe where time has gone. Well you take care friend Im still watching you and now I cansee even better lol. Until later

Chris Dixon posted a note for Mitch that says: C'mon Mitch,

I'm really sick and tired of all your awesomeness, would you give us a big slice of break? LOL, just kidding my man. You're truly an inspiration to us and even a better person, well, in person! Love your sense of humor and can't wait to have some dinner and drinks again next time I'm in NYC. Take care of that ankle and keep up the good work valve brother!

Big Texas Hugs,
Chris Dixon
Stelzer Ross 27FEB12

Ernie posted a note for Mitch that says: Thanks for the inspiration. I look forward to a time when I can run again.

JOHN MADONNA posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch
Glad to hear you are going strong....
It is such a blessing...my anniversary will be two years August 9th..
Everyday is precious and enjoyed even more by our survival..
JOHN MADONNA
LAS VEGAS NV

Sherry Bradford posted a note for Mitch that says: Mitch, thanks so much! I was so encouraged by your response! I did cardiac rehab for about five weeks and it was really helpful. I have been up and down on continuing working out at home, but have determined I am going to be consistent and that I really want to be able to run. So I have been walking a mile a day (about 20-25 minute pace)and have been steadily increasing my pace for the last few weeks. Last week I started adding just a minute of running then back to walking. If I feel really wiped out on any given day, I still walk, even if I have to go slower. Today I was able to run a minute five times during my mile. So far I can't get more than a minute at a time but I am determined to keep after it. I think I may make "I will not break!" my mantra when I am walking/running! LOL! Thank you again!

Sherry Bradford posted a note for Mitch that says: Mitch, I really loved your 8 month post and your one year. I am still working through the scared phase. I tried to be a runner when I was younger but always felt sick after running. Fast forward many years to learning I had a congenital bicuspid aortic valve that was very calcified and I now know why. I am trying to work up to running (at age 60) and I have a real fear of pushing my tissue valve too hard. How did you know it was ok to push yourself as you increased your level of exercise? Did the various aches and pains scare you that they might be your valve or aortic graph? You are such an inspiration! Congratulations on your recovery and thank you for sharing your journey! Sherry Bradford, AVR 10/23/2012

Carmen Pettiford posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch,
Can you send me any emails that you and I may have exchanged regarding my heart condition? My emails in my yahoo account were somehow deleted. If you have them please forward to cjpettiford@hotmail.com I hope you are doing well :-)

Carmen Pettiford posted a note for Mitch that says: Hi Mitch,

How are you? I hope all is well. I have a favor to ask of you. Can you forward me any emails that I may have sent you regarding my condition and or recovery? I lost all of my emails in my yahoo acct. Please forward emails to cjpettiford@hotmail.com

Thanks Mitch!!

Mitch, Happy 1 year anniversary. Your update/post made me smile and tear up. You have always been a source of support for so many of us. You faced open heart surgery & recovery and won. You came out stronger and a warrior. I wish you continued love, health and happiness. Most of all I wish you FUN and LAUGHTER for all the years to come. Hugs dear friend. Janis Kielbasa

Well done on the half-marathon. I did the same 8 months after my second aortic valve replacement (endocarditis both times) in 2006. Now, at 53 and 6 years after my third replacement, I am still running and completing in the occasional tri. Keep up the reporting.... Blogs like yours are important to show how positive the outcomes from conditions like valve insufficiency and severe endocarditis can be.

Mitch,
Thanks for this journal ... it's very helpful to me as I wrap my mind around my surgery in less than a month - and as I try to cope with the feeling of utter and complete terror ...