Autumn Robbins posted a note for Natalie that says:
Natalie,
I loved reading your journal and wanted to thank you for sharing. We live in Highlands NC. I have moderate mitral valve regurgitation and I am currently educating myself for what may be in my future. We are familiar with Northeast Georgia and thrilled to know Dr. Wolfe is so close. I hope you are doing well and getting stronger day by day. Again thank you for sharing-- your journal helps easy my nerves!
steve geddes posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi Natalie my name is Steve. I am waiting for the same surgery. not looking forward to op but wanting to get back to soccer again. (56 on Oct 16) Good to hear of your fast recovery I hope mine will be similar
Steve from Aust
Barbara Sparkman posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hello my daughter...sometimes I really wish that I was closer. Maybe I could just do the driving the little people from place to place and grocery shop. I continue to pray for your healing and that your boutiful energy will gradually return. I break down and cry when I really think about the miracle of your life and the courage and fortitude that DR . WOLFE has. I can't imagine all that you have endured this year. "Mamma" would have been 102 on September 2. She had incredible strength against many odds. We get our strength from family happenings. Rest , plesse, when you have the chance. Hug those sweet little people lots every day.
Our God is a loving God and will continue to take good care of you.
Megan Braukman posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi Natalie,
I've been out of touch and i think my last post never made it to print, i must have missed hitting the "submit" button, argh!
Thinking of you often (and all of the Uebe's) and hoping your recovery is progressing, if even in baby steps. I imagine you are riding the highs and lows of such a recovery, wishing you patience to move through each day and faith that you will feel strong again.
Our best always,
Megan (and the rest of us B's!)
Natalie Uebelacker Thank you Megan, it is always nice to hear from family. Yes, you are right about the highs and lows and the baby steps. Although everything looks great, I still ... Read more
Natalie Uebelacker Thank you Megan, it is always nice to hear from family. Yes, you are right about the highs and lows and the baby steps. Although everything looks great, I still don't feel great, but know that with patience it will all resolve itself. I am trying to view these health trials as opportunities to trust in the Lord more. Thanks again for writing. Hugs and love to all of you as well.
On August 29, 2013...
Liz Coombs. posted a note for Natalie that says:
Just wanted you to know you have been in my prayers and thoughts.
Vanessa posted a note for Natalie that says:
I missed you on Friday at the spiritual life meeting. I hope you are well and your appointment went ok on Thursday.
Barbara Sparkman posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi Natalie..this is mom checking with you. Please and thank you for continuing to update your journal of life. You seem to be more real when you are talking to fellow recovering
heart valve surgery persons
than when I ask " HOW ARE YOU FEELING, Natalie ?" Your precious Cate, Eloise and Griffen have no idea how strong and determined their mom is. May GOD continue to keep you in the palm of his hand as you and yourhousehold celebrate your life. I most definitely miss the mostly happy commotion at your house , I am reassured that all is well.
Philip & Rita Radziwon posted a note for Natalie that says:
What is really "NORMAL?" I think normal is what is happening right now. That makes everything normal. Whatever is in the moment is supposed to be here. You are as normal as anyone so take each day in stride. The days you feel good, enjoy that day. The days you don't feel so good know that a good day is ahead. And most of all start each and every day talking to God and thanking Him for the wonderful gift you have; family, friends, health and healing, and Him. And ask Him to help your day be good or give you the strength to get through the tough days. Sometimes I think He lets weird things happen in our day to see if we will ask His help. Honestly, I'm really not that good at calling on Him all day either. But remember, no matter what's ahead of you, He knows what it is and how you can make it through. And before you close your eyes at night, thank Him for the day and pray for a good tomorrow. Rita and I send our Blessings and prayers to you, Mark and all the kids.
Have a good tomorrow.
Debbie posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi, Natalie. I apologize for not getting back with you earlier.
Dr. Wolfe explained that there are 2 types of bicuspid valves - congenital & functional (I think he called them). I have the functional type, which is where 2 of the leaflets are fused together. He said that with that type of valve, the aorta is less likely develop an aneurysm. So even though the other 2 docs called it an aneurysm, it's more a dilated aorta, which is not as likely to rupture. (????) He said a lot of cardiologists don't understand that. Makes me wonder why.
Anyway....he said my valve is doing pretty well now - just mild stenosis - and he wouldn't touch it unless it starts giving me problems. We just need to work on getting my blood pressure down. So I'm supposed to have another echo and CT in October, and go from there.
In the meantime, I'm going to find a new cardiologist. I need someone who isn't going to freak out and scream that I'm going to die unless they cut my chest open and replace my aorta and valve. Dr. Wolfe said he would work with someone in Atlanta if I wanted. Who is your cardiologist?
Natalie Uebelacker Thanks Debbie for the update. I would trust that Dr. Wolfe knows what he's talking about. My cardiologist is Dr. John Attokaren who practices independently ... Read more
Natalie Uebelacker Thanks Debbie for the update. I would trust that Dr. Wolfe knows what he's talking about. My cardiologist is Dr. John Attokaren who practices independently up in Alpharetta near North Point Mall. He is located at 11600 Atlantis Place, Suite B, Alpharetta, GA 30022. Phone number is: 770-664-4449. He's a big fan of Dr. Wolfe's work, who has apparently saved many of his patients that he thought didn't have much hope. He's a nice, conservative doctor. I'll be praying that you can easily get your blood pressure under control and that you'll find a cardiologist that's right for you. Keep me updated periodically and feel free to call or write anytime.
On August 12, 2013...
Carolyn Herrnkind posted a note for Natalie that says:
I know how you feel about the crying. I am about 2 weeks ahead of you from surgery and I too will cry for no reason. These episodes have lessened in the past 2 weeks so it does get better. I think being idle and not being able to do more than I wanted to made it worse. Just know it gets better. You have your hands full I'm sure that is overwhelming in itself. Just breath and tell yourself it will get better. Anyways, sometimes a good cry is good for the soul. Best wishes!
Natalie Uebelacker Thank you Carolyn. It is very comforting to know I'm not alone in this. Have a great day!
On July 29, 2013...
Vicki posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi Natalie, sounds like you are doing great! Loved reading all about it and have been saying our prayers while we have been out of town. We are back and wanted to touch base about the meals. How are they going? Please don't over do it and let us know if you need anything else to help with the healing process.
Natalie Uebelacker Hi Vicki, thanks so much for your support. The meals are going great and I may be adding in some transportation needs soon as the kids have so many sport practices ... Read more
Natalie Uebelacker Hi Vicki, thanks so much for your support. The meals are going great and I may be adding in some transportation needs soon as the kids have so many sport practices and such. Thank you again for everything. Hope you had a wonderful summer!
On July 26, 2013...
Peg posted a note for Natalie that says:
Every time I read your journal it brings a couple of tears to my eyes. You have such a way of writing your thoughts. Have you ever thought about writing a book? I think of you often and am so thankful that you are having a successful recovery. Looking forward to seeing you soon.
Barbara Sparkman posted a note for Natalie that says:
My appreciation for all of the love and kindness shown toward my daughter Natalie during her heart valve surgery recovery process is more than amazing....just overwhelming. We are all so grateful for your prayers, phone calls, texts, emails, cards, personal visits. The meals have been lovingly prepared and delivered. Three little kids---Cate, Eloise, & Griffen and Mark are really enjoying the food. Gammy (me...mom) is still here daily trying to WASH, make lunches, drive children, play with children and the dog Sophie, grocery/pharmacy runs, etc.---do whatever necessary to hopefully make Natalie's days easier. Just A Great Big THANK YOU to friends and neighbors from me.
Emily Callahan posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi Natalie! Just wanted to let you know that I check your journal everyday and we continue to pray for you each day as well! We are so happy to see the amazing progress. Keep up the good work! :)
Kayla Engle-Lewis posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi Natalie. It was nice to talk to you today-even if it was about our neighbors missing dog. I love reading your posts about your progress. So glad to hear that things are going well. You sound like you are keeping your expectations realistic. But, in time you will get back to normal and you will probably have alot of appreciation for normal!
Jennifer Long posted a note for Natalie that says:
Natalie ! We're so happy to here that you got a report from the doctor! We continue to pray for you every day!!!
Much love!!
Jennifer Long
Rachel posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hey Natalie!
CRHP snaps to you! What a God moment, hey? Can you believe it about the repair? ! :)
I have loved reading your story and being able to keep up with how you are feeling. Your entries on July 13 and 22 meant a lot to me, as I believe I understand a bit how recovery must feel like to you. What you wrote could be some of my words from my own recovery!
Thanks for helping me feel normal! Thanks for giving me courage to continue.
I am glad you are learning how to notice when your body needs rest. DO IT! For gals like us, pushing us to do the exercises isn't the problem! :) So much is repairing itself as you REST, in mind, body, and soul.
Linda Allen posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hey Natalie! I'm Linda in Franklin, NC and I've been following your journal! I did not know until today that I could sign this guest book. :) I should pay more attention! I had my aortic valve replaced on May 7 and one day while researching online, I came across your journal. So neat to read your post and know exactly what your talking about! I'm 49, a mom of 4 sons, and had began a healthy journey 5 years ago. Eating low fat and exercising regularly. Thought I was a healthy girl now. BUT in April, I was at a Women of Joy Conference in TN and passed out. God placed 3 nurses near me that performed CPR and saved my life! I was taken to the hospital and found I had severe aortic stenosis, that had never been detected. I had surgery 3 weeks later in Asheville, NC. I'm doing well. Love the walking we do! I'm also going to Cardiac Rehab at our local hospital, that has helped me tremendously! I feel good, except for the tiredness. I need some extra energy! But our futures look good! You hang in there and keep up the good work! Sounds like you have a huge network of support, as I did! And that makes life so much easier! God bless you! thanks for allowing a stranger to follow your journal!
Natalie Uebelacker Hi Linda thank you so much for reaching out to me. I am 6 weeks post surgery and only a couple of days before my children's school starts. As my daily demands ... Read more
Natalie Uebelacker Hi Linda thank you so much for reaching out to me. I am 6 weeks post surgery and only a couple of days before my children's school starts. As my daily demands are increasing my body and mind are struggling to keep up. I'm feeling anxious a lot and have been crying as I realize I have to force myself to stop and rest. There's always another dish to load or load of laundry to start or bed to make not to mention all of the school and sport related activity for the children. I mentioned going to cardiac rehab to my surgeon and he said it would be a waste of my time. Can you tell me about your experience and when you started? Do you have any advice on how to manage healing with being a full time Mom? Have you discovered anything that gives you more energy? Thanks again for writing in my guest book. God bless you and I'll be praying for you. - Natalie
On July 22, 2013...
Jackie Wathen posted a note for Natalie that says:
Great to hear how you are progressing. Thinking of you often and remembering you in my prayers.
Natalie Uebelacker Thank you so much for your prayers and well wishes and for the sweet and precious card you sent. I sincerely appreciate it. Please keep praying for me as I ... Read more
Natalie Uebelacker Thank you so much for your prayers and well wishes and for the sweet and precious card you sent. I sincerely appreciate it. Please keep praying for me as I enter this whole new phase of recovery that includes 3 children at St Jude. Oh my our life is very busy. See you soon.
On July 22, 2013...
Heather Odeh posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi sweet friend. I am I town for good now and I would love to come overland walk with you. Talk with you or fluff pillows. Or give someone a minute to run an errand and stay with you while you sleep. Have your mom call me please! I can bring all of us lunch too. I have this great local store I get "to go" food from that is healthy!! Kale salad. Soup, yummy sandwiches! We continue to pray for you to mend up and feel stronger every day. Looking forward to more updates! And. A phone call!
Natalie Uebelacker Hi there so sorry we couldn't connect before school. I later realized the week I suggested to you was your Odyessy week. I hope that went well. Still dealing ... Read more
Natalie Uebelacker Hi there so sorry we couldn't connect before school. I later realized the week I suggested to you was your Odyessy week. I hope that went well. Still dealing with the herniated disc in my back between L5 & S1. Had a 2nd steroid shot there yesterday and will begin PT next week. Plan to come back to Formwell next week at least to begin walking on the treadmill or riding the bike. We can talk about a training schedule then. Take care and see you soon.
On July 21, 2013...
Barbara Sparkman posted a note for Natalie that says:
Well, Missy Cate is eleven now...How can this be?? The "birthday mall scavenger hunt" happened without a hitch. I kniw that the 8 little girls really enjoyed the adventure. Better yet, you ....Missy Natalie walked the length of several mall corridors and seemed to be OK. CATE was so thrilled that YOU were there. Thanks for all of the love and good effort to make this a birthday to remember..
A lot is behind you now after 3 weeks. Off to Gainesville to see Dr. Wolfe this Monday. Hoping for a good report. Please be kind to yourself and get the necessary rest each day...
Lorelei posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi there!
I'm pleased to read this encouraging entry-I have been out of pocket last week and catching up from that this week and realized several times during the week that the updates had not dropped into my email lately. I've re-submitted my subscription! I'll be texting you to meet me outside for a walk soon! Keep up the good work of obeying doctor's orders! :) Love you!
Graciela Zaarour posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi Natalie,
We are driving back from Orlando and just finished reading your blog. Randy said you needed this procedure since you have a big heart. I will reach out to you soon. We will continue prayers and look forward to seeing you fully recovered.
Love,
Graciela
PS who is Mark? :)
Megan Braukman posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hello to all of the Uebe's!
Natalie,
Hope this week is looking up,up, UP and you are encouraged by your continued progress.
How do you eat an elephant?
One bite at a time!
ew, but you know what i mean :)
Grace Chance posted a note for Natalie that says:
Think of you often - your journals allow those of us not close in distance to watch over you and know you are safe. So comforting to know recovery is going well. You are on an upward hill and only good things to come.
We love and miss you - xoxo
Barbara Sparkman posted a note for Natalie that says:
Each day presents new hope and new challenges for you...I see you resting, and it is like watching you as a little girl when you were sick. I continue to pray for your recovery. Seeing your beautiful Cate, Eloise and Griffen give you hugs makes me know that the world is allright with you . Your courage and faith in our Lord Jesus remains so strong.
Ernie posted a note for Natalie that says:
Seems like you are surrounded by a very loving family and friends. I'm happy you are doing well. I hope your recovery is smooth.
jeff o posted a note for Natalie that says:
Been watching your journal, I'm happy to read you're doing so well. Thanks for taking your time to post, it helps those of us with upcoming surgery.
Debbie W. posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi, Natalie. Thanks for the response.
I made an appointment with Dr. Wolfe next week. I'd like to talk to you on the phone, if that's still ok. I have a few questions. You can call me at 404.441.8085. I look forward to talking to you.
Natalie Uebelacker Hi Debbie I've been thinking about you and wondering how your appointment with Dr Wolfe went and what's on the horizon for you? My thoughts and prayers are ... Read more
Natalie Uebelacker Hi Debbie I've been thinking about you and wondering how your appointment with Dr Wolfe went and what's on the horizon for you? My thoughts and prayers are with you. Drop me a line or a text when time permits.
On July 13, 2013...
Adriana posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi Natalie,
I had a dream about you last night. So happy to check your journal and see that you are doing so well.
Love,
Ana
Kathy Allgood posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hey Natalie, Just a little note to let you know we are praying for you and hope you will fell like a new woman real soon.
Big Hugs, The Allgoods
The Stewart Family posted a note for Natalie that says:
We just got back from vacation and was reading to catch up. It is very uplifting to see one's prayers answered. We will continue the good prayers and look forward to seeing you fully recovered.
Of note, if by walking 3x a day...behind a lawnmower is good for you...I know of the perfect cure for you!
Kristine Sanchez Family posted a note for Natalie that says:
Got back from Miami last night and so thankful to read that you are home and everything went well. I hope that each day will be better than the next and you will soon be back on your feet. In the meantime, I'd love to provide a little something sweet so I'll be by sometime this week, won't bother anyone, like a little mouse, your treat will just appear at your doorstep. Continued prayers & lots of love!
Bridgett Calia posted a note for Natalie that says:
Natalie so glad to hear you are keeping your spirits sunnier than the weather, although today is a beautiful day. Praying for your strength, patience, and healing.-Bridgett
Steven Thompson posted a note for Natalie that says:
Natalie
I had aortic valve surgery Jan 3rd I was asymptomatic and walked 15 - 20 miles per day prior to surgery and resumed this within 3 months after surgery. I sometimes work 6-8 hours nonstop in my vegetable garden. But there were times in first three months I felt terrible. I regretted my surgery many times, but never gave up. You know yourself better than anyone. If you feel capable of doing more than what you are being told you can, try to accomplish these things, but don't do anything stupid. I have a cow valve and at 55 plan on being around quite a while. I will pray for your recovery and wish you the best, I know how you feel.
Rob, Ashley, Summerlin, Jacob & John Sniffen posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hey kiddo. Our thoughts remain with you, Mark and the UBkids daily. So glad everything went well. We love ya and admire your courage and poise throughout. God is good!
The Foy Family posted a note for Natalie that says:
Natalie, we're so thankful to read about your continued progress. I'm in awe over the strength you have to overcome such an invasive procedure. Keep up the good work and try to keep your spirits high although it isn't easy without the inspiration of a beautiful day. We could use an ark here in PC as well... roads are flooded and we've seen the sun twice in about 10 days. You continue to be in our prayers and I'm sure much sunnier days lie just ahead.
Kelly Spenard posted a note for Natalie that says:
I'd like to come visit and walk next Sat afternoon if that's good for you. I will check in mid week . Keep on keep in' on girl !
Barbara Sparkman posted a note for Natalie that says:
Well, my daughter continues to surprise me.. She seems stronger each day. However, I think that she can use a short nap each afternoon. She tried it Thursday and Friday. She had no trouble falling asleep at night. My theory is.. ...REST IS GOOD FOR HEALING. Natalie 's sister Stephanie is driving over tomorrow.. (and sweet little Sophie the puppy is coming home)..a fun day to come. ...
Love
Mom
Kayla Engle-Lewis posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi Natalie, So glad you are progressing with your recovery from the surgery. That dream sounds scary. I bet it is not an uncommon one for others who have had that surgery! It is so great that you are getting out and walking (when it is not pouring!). Hope that your painful periods of the day get less and less in the near future. Kayla (PS Eli returns July 13 and would love to help out as mother's helper sometime!)
Karen Gibson posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi, Natalie,
Would love to walk with you among all your beautiful flowers. May they continue to make you smile. Sounds like you're one "Steel Magnolia" with a lot of steel. Keep it up!
Natalie Uebelacker Thank you. Hope you received my email about the turtle card. He has become my Mascot. Love to you all.
On July 6, 2013...
Vanessa Cucchi posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hey Natalie,
I am so pleased to hear you are doing so well. May God bless you with a speedy recovery. I look forward to seeing you soon.
Warm Regards,
Vanessa Cucchi
Beverly Morris posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hey Natalie, I am Beverly Morris , a friend and Siren Sister to our sweet mom. I have had you in my thoughts and prayers for some time.
Last summer on July 11th, I had open heart surgery to correct three blocked arteries. I would never had known I had a problem, but decided to go in and have the cardiac calcium test done due to family history. I have always taken good care of myself(diet, exercise, etc.). I was shocked when they told me I had blockage! Anyway, just doing great now and pray all will be successful for you!
TC posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi Natalie!!
Glad to hear you r doing so well. U r an amazing woman. Keep up the good work. I will be visiting Kelly in Oct, maybe we could visit w/u Mark and the kids.
Lov T.C.
Natalie Uebelacker Would love to see you in October. Thanks so much for your love and prayers.
On July 5, 2013...
Love, The Callahans posted a note for Natalie that says:
Love reading such positive and uplifting updates. You are an amazing woman Natalie!! Keep up the good work!
Debbie W. posted a note for Natalie that says:
Hi, Natalie. I read your story, and it looks like we have a lot in common. I have a BAV with mild stenosis, and an ascending aortic anyeurism. A surgeon at one of the Atlanta hospitals told me I need surgery right away to replace the valve and section of my aorta. (It's 4.6 cm). A doc at the other large hospital said I can wait til my anyeurism is 5 cm. Both say they would replace the valve, although it's not giving me any problems now. I didn't know they could "repair" a bav. I also never considered NE Ga medical center. How did you find out about your doctor?
Natalie Uebelacker Debbie thanks for writing. My cardiologist recommended Dr Wolfe at NGMC first followed by 2 other Docs at Emory (one at Midtown and one at Clifton Road). My ... Read more
Natalie Uebelacker Debbie thanks for writing. My cardiologist recommended Dr Wolfe at NGMC first followed by 2 other Docs at Emory (one at Midtown and one at Clifton Road). My 1st CT surgeon at Emory said we could continue to wait and see. After 2 or 3 visits with him, I decided he was not the guy for me.
I then made the trek to North GA where I met Dr Wolfe. From the moment I met him I felt God's presence. There was something different and he took a look at my Echo and said he thought he could repair my valve. He is a pioneer in the field of valve repair. It's a passion for him! Later after additional test he let us know he was cautiously optimistic that he could repair it. Because my valve was very abnormal.
Long story short I went on to meet with Dr Ed Chen at Emory mainly to get a confirmation on my diagnosis. It was he who told us that if my valve ended up being replaced not to use a mechanical valve despite my age. After doing more research on mech valves and the long term effects of a blood thinner' my husband and I quickly agreed. We then turned our sites on tissue valves in the event we needed it.
Guess this isn't really a short story. Both Docs confirmed after a Stress Echo done this past March that my leaking valve was the primary concern. The ascending aorta could wait. I went on to have a heart Cath in early May followed by a Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) and another CT Scan so both Docs could get a better view of the valve, etc.
For my family situation this summer was the best time for my surgery and recovery. 3 small kids keep me very busy all year long.
I recommend you see Dr Wolfe. It's worth the drive. I also recommend as many tests as needed to give them the best possible view of your valve. I am guessing that whoever you go with will recommend doing both the valve and stem at the same time to avoid two surgeries. I'm happy to speak with you in person on the pone. Just let me know. My prayers and well wishes will be with you.
Uploading your photo!
Liz and I are so happy with your recovery. We pray for your continued health.
Frank & Liz