My husband was there for me too. Lucky to have wonderful guys in our life! How are you feeling? I'm almost 9 months, feel great!!
Nicola Laker Hi Linda. Apologies for the late reply. Life has been a bit hectic of late worrying about my mum in ... Read more
Nicola Laker Hi Linda. Apologies for the late reply. Life has been a bit hectic of late worrying about my mum in hospital but glad to say she is doing well now and convalescing in a lovely home.
Anyway, I'm coming up 9 months now and I'm not too bad at all. Still get very tired some days and fighting for breathe when I speak is also not helping. I will be glad to see the ENT this week and finally find out what they can do, if anything, to make it easier and better for me. I'm still signed off work as my Dr is concerned about dust getting into my lungs which were damaged whilst on life support. But looking back to how I was, I feel very lucky and I'm making progress every day. I still have pain in my chest but I can live with that but would love to have my voice back! Xx
Hi Nicola, just wondering how you're getting on? Hope all's heading in the right direction! Best wishes, Sophia
Nicola Laker Hi Sophia, lovely to hear from you. I'm doing OK, getting stronger by the day bit it's very slow. I ... Read more
Nicola Laker Hi Sophia, lovely to hear from you. I'm doing OK, getting stronger by the day bit it's very slow. I can look back now and see the difference which spurs me on during those bleak days. I'm going to see the Critical Care Consultant who looked after me in ICU with some other Dr's etc as well on the 16th of this month. In hoping he will get my vocal chords seen too quicker as my local consultant is really dragging his feet! It's surprising how much breathe you need to speak and it's making me even more tired trying go to talk to people. I'm still off work as the environment would not do me any favours and I couldn't physically do my job either. So to say I'm bored at home is an understatement! I tried to drive but it still too painful. I have rolled over in bed during the night and woken up in agony so I'm trying to to keep partly on my back and bunch up pillows around me to see if that stops me! I just wish it wasn't so painful...more so on my right side than my left. But it's a major improvement to what it was like. Sneezing still hurts, as do hiccups. I don't usually suffer with either of these until I can home from hospital and since then I haven't stopped Sneezing! It's like my body knew and made me go through this agony numerous times day after day 😂 now it hurts less they seem to have stopped! Very bizzare 😕
How are you doing? Are you doing more hours at work now ? Xxxx
Sophia Ridley I'm so sorry to hear that you have difficulty with your vocal chords, it's a reminder you could do wi ... Read more
Sophia Ridley I'm so sorry to hear that you have difficulty with your vocal chords, it's a reminder you could do without. Hope the consultant can accelerate the treatment, last thing you need for them to drag their feet.
I struggled for months to slept flat and then more before I could think about sleeping on my side (even now I hug a pillow!) as my shoulders were so painful. I had some intense physio (sports physio) on my shoulder and neck muscles, made such a difference. Sneezing is very bizarre, glad that's settled.
I'm doing pretty well. Had a run of occasionally AF recently, after the bout that took me to A&E. It seems to start up if tired/eaten poorly, which isn't great when I'm trying to continue a very busy job, I get in 10ish but don't leave until gone 7 sometimes later 😟 Least only 4 days, I can be full time mum on Fridays! I have found that, although last thing I want to do, walking quickly for 20 minutes kicks it back into sinus, it's so odd that I feel lighter and have more energy the split second it switches.
Good news is that the atrial ectopics have practically gone, just left with loads of ventricular ones.
Saw cardiologist today, have monitor for Monday (wanted to trace normal day rather than running about central London!), bloods and echo next week. He really wants me to wait and see rather than go ahead with an ablation at this stage. Said he's seen others where it's settled down completely. Fingers crossed!
I'll reply to the email generated by the guestbook. If you're up in town, let me know!
Hello Nicola,
Just wanting to introduce myself—I’m an EA sister with Barb too (it seems there are only 4 of us here??) whose TV is failing, and I’m anxiously ...Read more
Hello Nicola,
Just wanting to introduce myself—I’m an EA sister with Barb too (it seems there are only 4 of us here??) whose TV is failing, and I’m anxiously awaiting word from the powers-that-be about the when of surgery. I was interested in your “don’t wait” advice, could you expand a little on that? I’m wondering when they think it’s time. Also, the “cone” is a repair procedure, yes? So theoretically that should be less traumatic than a replacement? And did they know (repair vs. replacement) ahead of time which was required? So many questions, but would be so appreciative of any of your input. It’s so lonely out here, given that there are few of us with EA--so here’s my contact info. if it would make more sense to post individually. Grace.up47@gmail.com Many many thanks
Barbara Laurie Hi Linda❣ I had the cone procedure, which is a repair, for my surgery, also my right ventricle was ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Hi Linda❣ I had the cone procedure, which is a repair, for my surgery, also my right ventricle was made smaller, since it was hugely enlarged, and the small hole was repaired. Then, my heart failed the next day, and the third day I received a replacement valve and the Glenn procedure to by pass much of the right ventricle and TV. Age is a factor in the general guidelines for the repair, but overall health is taken into consideration as well as what they learn from the various tests. If a surgeon suggests repair it still could result in a replace if, once they go in and look, the leaflets of the valves are not usable. BUT remember Linda, EA is so rare, and every EA heart can be so different, making it all very tricky. Cardiologists, as a group, push for waiting when the patient has few symptoms and is doing well, while surgeons prefer younger, stronger patients.. But you know even younger patients can still find EA surgery tricky.. And also, as an aside, I was told the TV is always replaced with a bio valve, not mechanical.
I know your surgery will be great Linda, you're in great hands with DR. Derani. At the Mayo. God Bless❤️🐾❤️🐾❤️
Nicola Laker Hi Linda. I think Barbara has really summed this up. The surgeon went in with the idea to repair rat ... Read more
Nicola Laker Hi Linda. I think Barbara has really summed this up. The surgeon went in with the idea to repair rather than replace, which for me was successful. I also had my ventricle made smaller and an ablation due to two further (unwanted) electrical pathways.
Each EA patient is different and although my operation went smoothly, my complications like Barbara followed after surgery. Luckily I did not require any further operations as the drugs eventually put my body back to normal. This does not mean this could happen to you. Barbara and I were just very unlucky but here to tell the tale.
My surgeon here in the UK, likes to perform the Cone procedure on the valve as young as possible not just to be able to use the leaflets but also give them an easier recovery. Us oldies take much longer to get over this. I've been told it was will be at least a year although this is also due to the complications that followed that have put put the recovery back. We just have to take each day as it comes.
Have you been given a date yet? Xx
Nicola Laker Something else that I forgot to say was that the surgeon said that EA was a harder recovery because w ... Read more
Nicola Laker Something else that I forgot to say was that the surgeon said that EA was a harder recovery because we were born with the defect and our hearts are lazy as one side isn't pumping properly and doesn't know any different. When it's repaired it goes into shock and doesn't like working so hard...hence the tiredness etc. Also this is why it took vast amounts of drugs over 4 days to get my heart to function properly followed by my kidneys and lungs. Another reason why he likes to operate when the patients are younger. My surgeon does a lot of charity work repairing valves in children abroad. I think I was extremely lucky to have had his expertise working on me. X
Linda Lloyd Hi again Barb and Nicola, with many thanks for your input—I’ve been (anxiously) waiting until I r ... Read more
Linda Lloyd Hi again Barb and Nicola, with many thanks for your input—I’ve been (anxiously) waiting until I received word from Dr. Dearani to update. He just called, and recommended that I come out there for more testing because what he was seeing was not conclusive--and their EA testing methods are more comprehensive than what my cardiologist sent to him. He also thought that it might be possible to have a TAVR for the aortic valve (the technology is getting better), which would make it far less dangerous (the aortic valve is actually not that bad yet; a TAVR has been considered experimental so far, but apparently will be considered less-so soon; this would mean that he would “only” have to “slice and dice” the R side, which would be much less ominous). And so, I will fly out for this appt in mid-September. I’ll know more then, and I’m sure will have a ton of follow-up questions for you kindred spirits then. But I’m so deeply grateful for your advice. Again, THANK YOU !
Nicola Laker You are so welcome Linda. We are happy to answer any questions we can. Please keep us posted !!! X ... Read more
Nicola Laker You are so welcome Linda. We are happy to answer any questions we can. Please keep us posted !!! Xxx❤
Barbara Laurie Hey Londa, a TAVR would be great! I am so glad you get to have Dr. Dearani, after much thought I rea ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Hey Londa, a TAVR would be great! I am so glad you get to have Dr. Dearani, after much thought I really think he's the smartest person in the room right now, here in the US, RE: EA . Best wishes for a safe trip in September and can't wait to hear how things progress😄🐾🐾❤️
Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Nicola that says:
Dear Nicola,
Thinking about you this morning and looking forward to your first update. Praying your remodel went well, you are healing, and you got the room ...Read more
Dear Nicola,
Thinking about you this morning and looking forward to your first update. Praying your remodel went well, you are healing, and you got the room with a view. ; )
Love from Barb's sister,
Cynthia
Dear Nicola,
I am writing to you to let you know that prayers are being sent your way all hours of the day....it has been wonderful hearing the updates from ...Read more
Dear Nicola,
I am writing to you to let you know that prayers are being sent your way all hours of the day....it has been wonderful hearing the updates from Tina....knowing that you are in very good hands...looking forward to continued updates and for that first message from you....keep on healing ....love you sweet lady...❤️
Barbara Laurie Love you Nicola! We're praying for you! D &B.
Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Nicola that says:
Dear Nikola,
Blast this time difference. It's 6:12 am on 5/3/16 here in Connecticut USA and it's YOUR Day! I want you to know you are never far from my mind ...Read more
Dear Nikola,
Blast this time difference. It's 6:12 am on 5/3/16 here in Connecticut USA and it's YOUR Day! I want you to know you are never far from my mind since you are my sister's heart twin and I've gotten to feel as though I know you through your posts. I'm not sure how often you get around to this guest book but when you do, you'll know that in the wee hours, Barbs sister was praying for you, your surgeons, your care team, your family, and for the moment you awaken -remodeled and well- to that beautiful view you shared.
With warmest regard,
Cynthia
Well your big day is here! Again...my thoughts n prayers are with you sweet lady! Looking forward to updates...hugs to you!
Couldn't believe the magnificent ...Read more
Well your big day is here! Again...my thoughts n prayers are with you sweet lady! Looking forward to updates...hugs to you!
Couldn't believe the magnificent view from your hospital room...don't even want to tell you what kind of views we have from ours...UGH! Love ya Nicola...❤️😘❤️😘
Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Nicola that says:
Dear Nicola,
Regardless of why you are feeling sorry for yourself, you are. No need to waste your energy labeling the why of it. Pajamas, rest, tears, reading, ...Read more
Dear Nicola,
Regardless of why you are feeling sorry for yourself, you are. No need to waste your energy labeling the why of it. Pajamas, rest, tears, reading, a good movie or television program...whatever you need, you get.
See how you feel tomorrow or the day after and reevaluate then but pamper yourself a bit today. As I type this, I realize you are already heading toward evening...I hope I'm not too late to say, 'Hello! I'm here in Connecticut hoping your day was good and praying for you.'
Big hugs from Barb's sister,
Cynthia
Denise Campbell Nicola I feel your pain. Lol. I too am feeling down and uncertain. It's almost 6 weeks post op ... Read more
Denise Campbell Nicola I feel your pain. Lol. I too am feeling down and uncertain. It's almost 6 weeks post op for me. So uncertain about returning to work stressing about what my employer will think. I work as a teacher aide in kindergarten. Worried they will think I'm taking advantage. I hope you start to feel better. And I hope your hubby returns soon
Sophia Ridley Denise, I'm 5mth post mitral valve repair via OHS. My commute is an hour across London and then a off ... Read more
Sophia Ridley Denise, I'm 5mth post mitral valve repair via OHS. My commute is an hour across London and then a office based but can be stressful role. I was out for the recommended 3mths. I started back one day and then two days the following week, go in later to miss the heaviest rush hour. It's the physical exhersion that's worn me out, so I can imagine looking after little ones all day will be utterly exhausting. If you're able to stagger your return, I highly recommend it. It takes a time to get over an operation let alone what we have had so take it steady. I couldn't have gone back sooner because of my commute.
Denise Campbell Thank you Sophia. I'm thinking the same, It makes me tired just thinking about going back.
Nicola Laker Thankyou. I have pampered mysekf today and no doubt eaten all the wrong things but i enjoyed it! Its ... Read more
Nicola Laker Thankyou. I have pampered mysekf today and no doubt eaten all the wrong things but i enjoyed it! Its the first time I've been on my own in a very long time and had time to really relax and think. It's probably all catching up with me and my mind us probably wandering all.over the place. My husband is home on Sunday and then on going to my mums to look after her for a few days. I'm kept busy which is a good thing.
Not too long to go now ......
Nicola Laker I don't think any of you should be worrying about what your employer thinks. You need to feel ready ... Read more
Nicola Laker I don't think any of you should be worrying about what your employer thinks. You need to feel ready to go back to work . Saying that, I will probably be exactly the same 😅 lol .
Wanda Mroz You are right Nicola... I didn't care if anyone thought I was milking it. If they thought that it wa ... Read more
Wanda Mroz You are right Nicola... I didn't care if anyone thought I was milking it. If they thought that it was because no one can understand what we go through and what it all means ... Except someone who had been through it. You need to feel ready and you should not rush it and your Drs probably won't let you rush it. Hang in there Nicola.... All of you!
Nicola Laker Im going to take as long as it takes. I have no time scale and will not sacrifice my healing to rush ... Read more
Nicola Laker Im going to take as long as it takes. I have no time scale and will not sacrifice my healing to rush back too soon. Not sure how they will take that but once they know what I've had done I'm sure they will sort of understand....We shall see 😅 xx
Nicola Laker Booked in for a lovely head, neck and shoulders massage for next saturday. Can't wait! !! It's for r ... Read more
Nicola Laker Booked in for a lovely head, neck and shoulders massage for next saturday. Can't wait! !! It's for relieving stress so hopefully by the Monday I will be chilled and floppy 😅 xxx
Update from Dave today the 12th.....hoping you see it soon! Off to sit with two granddaughters for a few hours....gonna drop off dinner to mom n dad too! Jules ...Read more
Update from Dave today the 12th.....hoping you see it soon! Off to sit with two granddaughters for a few hours....gonna drop off dinner to mom n dad too! Jules is a great cook....homemade potato and leek soup! Ok will touch base with you later....hope was day went well....😘
Nicola Laker I have seen the update how thank you! So good to hear that she will be off the ventilation soon! Hope ... Read more
Nicola Laker I have seen the update how thank you! So good to hear that she will be off the ventilation soon! Hopefully Barbara will then come on leaps and bounds ☺
Good 12 hour shift today. Thank goodness for a shirt day tomorrow!!! I'm exhausted. Booked some time off pre hosoital so I can get my mum sorted with all her various Dr and hospital appointments. That will be one less thing to worry about. Also she is staying with her old school.friend when I have my op as I dont want her sitting at home fretting. Also she is a bit deaf and I dont think Vince will want to shout down the phone in hospital corridors 😅 He will tell my aunt and she can relay it back to mum. Think she is more worried about it than I am. My Dad has been around constantly the past week. Thankfully the room of choice seems to be mums bedroom. He was definitely in there when I went in to get mums tray and I often see him out if the kitchen window. I'm hoping he will be there holding my hand through surgery. I miss him so much.
Anyway before I start bawling, I hope you enjoy your soup. Potato and leek is one of my favourites! !
I'm off to bed now. Enjoy the rest of your day. Prays continue to go out for you all and especially Barbara ☺❤❤❤
Wow....your day almost over and I'm just going to have lunch! I'm teaching my phlebotomy class today and just got a break for lunch and read Daves post.....tears ...Read more
Wow....your day almost over and I'm just going to have lunch! I'm teaching my phlebotomy class today and just got a break for lunch and read Daves post.....tears in my eyes! I'm so happy! Oh how I am looking forward to hearing from her....❤️😊
Well....I had to look up "take away".....we call it take out....lol hope you are enjoying this relaxing time....enjoy the rest of your special day.....my best to Vince and your doggie.....
Nicola Laker It was a lovely day thank you and an early night was in order after walking about!
Daves post was ... Read more
Nicola Laker It was a lovely day thank you and an early night was in order after walking about!
Daves post was very encouraging and brilliant news that Barbara is responding well.
I'm getting my things together to take to my mums for the next 4 days. I spend less time at home lately but at least I know my mum is happy when I'm there to take care of her. It worries me that she will get herself all worked up when I'm In hospital but at least she will be staying with her old school friend and her husband whilst Im having the procedure done. Vince will ring them so they can relay everything back to my mum as she can't hear very well and won't wear her hearing aids! I wear them too so I have to take them out when she is watching the TV as it's soooo loud 😅
Anyway hope you have a good day and that Barbara continues to improve and is off that ventilator soon. X x❤❤
Nicola Laker I have just seen the post regarding her pulse! So glad that it's all ok now. The worry must have bee ... Read more
Nicola Laker I have just seen the post regarding her pulse! So glad that it's all ok now. The worry must have been awful. So pleased that it's all good now and praying for Barbara and her amazing family ☺❤ xx
Good morning to you....another day and that much closer to hearing Barbara's voice or seeing her first post to all of us...HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you...enjoy your ...Read more
Good morning to you....another day and that much closer to hearing Barbara's voice or seeing her first post to all of us...HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you...enjoy your special day....LIFE IS GOOD!
Nicola Laker Thank you. I've been thoroughly spoilt by my husband, mum and our dog 😅
I'm now home and sorti ... Read more
Nicola Laker Thank you. I've been thoroughly spoilt by my husband, mum and our dog 😅
I'm now home and sorting washing and then going to curl up in front of the TV with a take away. ☺
Hope you are having a lovely dayxxx❤
Nicola Laker Excellent news from Dave. I'm sure it won't be long before she is chatting with you all. ☺ She is ... Read more
Nicola Laker Excellent news from Dave. I'm sure it won't be long before she is chatting with you all. ☺ She is one tough lady. Bless her xx❤
Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Nicola that says:
Dear Nicola,
As I have said to my sister, Barbara, and as you must well know, most people do not understand the complexity of Ebstein's Anomaly. Anomaly means ...Read more
Dear Nicola,
As I have said to my sister, Barbara, and as you must well know, most people do not understand the complexity of Ebstein's Anomaly. Anomaly means a lot of things but this sister across the pond likes one particular meaning - a rarity.
To have lived with your condition and not merely survived is evidence of your strength. I know that some of what is happening to Barb must make you worried not just for her but also for yourself. It isn't for me to speak for Barb but I know how much she cares for you and she would want you to be spared complications; perhaps some of what Dave has shared will benefit you as you discuss your care plan with your team. I do hope so.
With Warm Regard from Barb's Sister,
Cynthia
Nicola Laker Thank you for your kind words. I know that people over here don't really get 'EA'. They seen to thin ... Read more
Nicola Laker Thank you for your kind words. I know that people over here don't really get 'EA'. They seen to think it's just a little defect wih the valve and don't understand all the other complications that go with it and what the knock on effect is really like on our bodies.
My sister is one example. Told her that I'm going into heart failure and she said "don't use this as an excuse, you have had this for fifty years".( actually it's 51 now eek!) Basically she thinks there is nothing wrong with me apart that my valve doesn't work quite as it should. As you can guess, there is no love lost between us and I'm hoping she does not turn up at the hospital with a sudden pang of sympathy for me as it's too little too late now. I have a wonderful husband and in laws and my mothee, brother and some very good friends so I will have plenty of support (I hope! ).
Yes I wouldn't be telling the truth if I didn't say that I do worry about going through what poor Barbara has had to endure the the last week, but I will have to put myself in my surgeons hands and hope that it all goes smoothly. The surgeon I have is similar to Barbaras' as he also concentrates on the cone procedure in children. If he is as good as Barbaraa surgeon I know that I am definitely in very good hands. I haven't known Barbara for long but after messaging each other when I'm wide awake at night over here, she is always so comforting and I feel like we have known each other for many years. Barbara has a wonderful supportive family. I continue to think and pray for her everyday day and look forward to seeing what she writes in her first post. Please give her all my love. ❤❤ xx
Sounds like a great day! It's still not even lunch time here! Making two loaves of banana bread....one for Jules and I'll bring the other over to mom and dad! ...Read more
Sounds like a great day! It's still not even lunch time here! Making two loaves of banana bread....one for Jules and I'll bring the other over to mom and dad! Ok spoke with Tina from Bless your heart pillows and she let me know that she just received your order yesterday, seems it goes through PayPal and then they inform her....she will be contacting you through your email to make sure enough postage was paid but all in all she said it should get there before your scheduled date...all set with that ....it was my pleasure to help out....hope your day was awesome! HAPPY BIRTHDAY 🍰🎈🎂🎉 to you a day early....enjoy your special day.....I adore country music but not a concert goer! Play it at home and turn it up real loud! 😊 Enjoy the rest of your day...can't wait for a Barbara post either....😊 It will be lovely!
Nicola Laker Thank you so much for chasing up the pillow. You are so very kind.
I've just got in and had a love ... Read more
Nicola Laker Thank you so much for chasing up the pillow. You are so very kind.
I've just got in and had a lovely day/eve. The traffic going was horrendous and the motorway was being "cleaned" on the way home so massive queues so I turned off when I could and drove the long way home but at least I was continually moving!
I've read the update from Dave and pleased to hear she is responsive etc. I'm sure when she has less sedation she will be ok. In fact she will be perfect ☺
I'm off to bed now. Hope everyone enjoyed your banana bread. It sounds delicious! Enjoy the rest of your day with your granddaughter.
Thank you so much again. You're a star ☺☺ xxx
Good morning to you! It's only 0656 EST here and almost noon your time! Too early for this gal but have to get up soon....I haven't had breakfast yet and you'll ...Read more
Good morning to you! It's only 0656 EST here and almost noon your time! Too early for this gal but have to get up soon....I haven't had breakfast yet and you'll be eating lunch! Well there's always something to do and I'm meeting my daughter-in-law before nine....get to see my precious 3 year old granddaughter Nora! Great way to start my day! I got the information and I will call as soon as they are open....I guess you could say "normal business hours" and I will let you know what's going on....if I need any more info I will let you know but really don't think that I will....soooo good news from Dave! Each day an improvement for Barbara....so hard on both of them....they both have to be strong in different ways but they have each other and their strong faith that will get them through her recovery....Barbara is always in my thoughts and prayers as she is in so many other people's too! Soooo you a country music fan? The Dixie Chicks concert on May 2nd? How cool is that? I was country when country wasn't cool......every since I was a little girl! Have a great time! Ok time to motivate myself....enjoy your day...I will,let you know about the ❤️ Pillow......
Kristie
Nicola Laker Morning. You are up early! I a days holiday from work so I have had a small lie in. Well it's hard w ... Read more
Nicola Laker Morning. You are up early! I a days holiday from work so I have had a small lie in. Well it's hard with the dog bouncing all over the bed from 5am onwards! I'm usually up at 4.30 to get ready for work as I start at 6am. I'm off out to meet friends at a venue (which houses an arena, numerous food outlets and a cinema and a small intimate music venue, exhibition area and other little stalls ). We are having a late lunch/early dinner and going to the small venue to see Rick Astley. He was big here in the eighties and what we would call very "cheesy " but it's good fun and a nice time out with the girls. It's my birthday tomorrow so Vince and I will be a my mums and taking her to a charity fair. We are not selling her though 😂 My mum has Parkinsons and wants to support their sale. We will leave her there and head to the second hand book shops in town. Vince is a huge bookwom. I have a stepson but no grandchildren yet.....but won't hold my breath!
Its made me very happy that Barbara is waking up and can't wait for that first post. ..its going to be lovely ☺
Thankyou so much for chasing up my pillow I am so very grateful.
Have a lovely day with your grandaughter. Xxxx
Nicola Laker Oh Dixie Chicks are on 1st May. I go in on the 2nd and sleep at the hospital ready for surgery on th ... Read more
Nicola Laker Oh Dixie Chicks are on 1st May. I go in on the 2nd and sleep at the hospital ready for surgery on the morning if the 3rd. They do it all different here in the UK. I would have rater spent the night befire at home but not allowed 😢😢 They are one if Vinces favourites. We love the Mavericks too. Their concert was fabulous! X
Well Nicola....
You are so very right about Vince and Dave having their hands full once you girls get back on your feet! Another great post from Dave....she ...Read more
Well Nicola....
You are so very right about Vince and Dave having their hands full once you girls get back on your feet! Another great post from Dave....she is responding and this is wonderful news! I think she knows she's being taken care of...again we are all looking forward to hearing from her! I think that Dave and Barbara are eight hours behind you...they are three hours behind me in Connecticut...and they are in California...happy to hear that your surgery date has been set...it'll be good to have that behind you....sounds like I am rambling here....you will be in my thoughts and prayers from now until you are fully recovered! Like Dave said...piece of cake....easy as pie...you've got this Nicola... We might just take you up on a visit to England! I've never been out of the USA! Thank you again...oh would you like me to call the number for your heart pillow to see if it's on its way? You can give me the phone number n the order number and I can call and find out if it's been delivered or how long they expect it to take...let me know...❤️
Nicola Laker Grrr...just wrote a post and deleted it! 😠
Anyway what I was trying to say was that I'm so please ... Read more
Nicola Laker Grrr...just wrote a post and deleted it! 😠
Anyway what I was trying to say was that I'm so pleased Barbara has seen and spoken to Dave. Hopefully it won't be long before she is fully awake and chatting away.☺
You and your family are so lovely and kind. And it would be our honour to have you visit us here.
Thank you so much for offering to chase up my pillow. I didn't recieve any email confirmation so I've taken details from my PayPal.
United Kingdom
Transaction ID6MY199354C6665449
Seller information
Bless Your Heart Therapeutic Pillows
818-980-7561
www.blessyourheartpillows.com
Your purchase
Cardiac Travel Pillow
$30.00 USD
Postage and Packaging
$25.00 USD
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$0.00 USD
Purchase total
$55.00 USD
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$0.00 USD
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Let me know if you need anymore information.
Thank you thank you thank you. You are so so kind. Xxxx
So Nicola hopefully you have read Daves recent Barbara post....on the road to recovery and healing! Yippee! I cry tears of joy for my beautiful younger sister! ...Read more
So Nicola hopefully you have read Daves recent Barbara post....on the road to recovery and healing! Yippee! I cry tears of joy for my beautiful younger sister! The Lord is good and He hears our prayers! Oh....and I guess I might be taking a trip to London per my brother-in-law Dave....lol! Thank you again for all your thoughts,prayers and caring for my sister!
Will keep in touch....all will be good for you...heck with all our prayers no problem.! Enjoy your day Nicola...❤️Kristie
Nicola Laker I've had a manic two days and the first message I read was yours so I jumped onto Barbaras page ....o ... Read more
Nicola Laker I've had a manic two days and the first message I read was yours so I jumped onto Barbaras page ....oh what lovely news! You must be overjoyed. It will be lovely to have her awake. She probably won't believe what's been going on, bless her. Can't wait to see her posts. ☺
I'm actually looking forward to getting my surgery done and out of the way! Chasing up the nurse again today for my date. Just need to get that so I can get everything ready.
And it would be lovely to have you here! 😆 You would all be welcome anytime. Our doors are open to you all. ❤❤ xx
Nicola Laker Just had the call. ..date set for 3rd May. 😆 ❤xx
Barbara Laurie Great news! You've got this, pie and cake ( easy as pie, piece of cake)! I know, we're weird. D.
Nicola Laker We are an excellent match then as people call me "freak " 😂
Just trying to persuade my husband V ... Read more
Nicola Laker We are an excellent match then as people call me "freak " 😂
Just trying to persuade my husband Vince that we need to grab a sneaky weeks holiday before surgery 😏 I fear I'm fighting a losing battle with that one 😕 Oh well. ....I will have all the time I need once I've recovered. He won't know what's hit him with all my new found energy. You will have your hands full as well Dave when Barb is back on her feet 😅xx
Wow what a very long day you had yesterday......no new journal entry from Dave today but he does call our mom and today it was twice....April 5th....in the ...Read more
Wow what a very long day you had yesterday......no new journal entry from Dave today but he does call our mom and today it was twice....April 5th....in the morning he told her that Barbara was going back into the OR to have her chest sewn up....seems they kept it open due to swelling and Dave didn't want to tell mom n dad this earlier then he had to....when the second call came they decided not to do it today....give her body a little more time to get rid of the swelling....she will be on dialysis for a few more days....oh what she has been through in less then a week! Can't even imagine what she will say when she knows all that she's been through....but she is a fighter....and with ALL of the prayers.....will let him know to tell her you send your love..❤️ Enjoy your day and I will let you know of Barbara's progress....thank you Nikola....😊❤️
I don't like auto correct and I should have read what was typed...waiting to read a Barbara post with all her wittiness......that is what it should have said..... ...Read more
I don't like auto correct and I should have read what was typed...waiting to read a Barbara post with all her wittiness......that is what it should have said.....
You are so very welcome. We are all waiting to hear her voice ...to read a Barbara post with all irate wittiness! She has felt the same way as you about finding ...Read more
You are so very welcome. We are all waiting to hear her voice ...to read a Barbara post with all irate wittiness! She has felt the same way as you about finding someone with the same ❤️condition....she is a fighter! Lots going on with her now as we all just read in Daves recent post. Her body need rest so she can heal...she has excellent care and that's what eases our minds....they are watching her night n day....and she's getting pampered for her birthday...thank you for your response and for being Barbara's new ❤️Sister! Again all the best to you,Smurf....(how sweet) I will be checking your posts and keeping you in my prayers....
Nicola Laker Hope that "Mouse" had a good day today. I've not long been home from a 12 hour shift and then spent ... Read more
Nicola Laker Hope that "Mouse" had a good day today. I've not long been home from a 12 hour shift and then spent three hours loplug after my mum and sorting her bills etc.
Been checking the forum throughout the day in case there were any further updates.
I am really missing the lovely and funny messages from Barbara and pray she will be up and about soon.
Please pass on my love to her when you next speak to Dave.
Love to you and all the family. Barbara is one lucky and amazing lady to have such a wonderful loving family. 😆 ❤❤❤
Nicola,
I am Barbara Laurie's oldest sister Kristie....it warms my heart to see the outpouring of love and prayers for my sweet sister...we all live three ...Read more
Nicola,
I am Barbara Laurie's oldest sister Kristie....it warms my heart to see the outpouring of love and prayers for my sweet sister...we all live three thousands miles away from her and Dave....it has been difficult for us waiting to hear updates from Dave....luckily he has been calling our mother and then she has been reaching out to us...today is her birthday and I know it's hard for my parents....mom talked to me about Barbara's birth....she was a tiny little thing...I was six when she was born...I was like her other mother! Mom nicknamed her "mouse" .....well now 55years later we are celebrating her rebirth with her repaired heart...its been a very tough road so far but she is tough and her faith is strong...we are praying so hard for her....and wishing we could be there to hold her hand and whisper in her ear....but Dave is doing that for all of us! Thank you for caring about Barbara and for all your thoughts and prayers....the best of everything as you prepare for your surgery....my prayers will be with you....thanks for listening to me....❤️
Nicola Laker Thankyou for your lovely post. It was such a blessing to find Barbara and she introduced me to this ... Read more
Nicola Laker Thankyou for your lovely post. It was such a blessing to find Barbara and she introduced me to this wonderful forum. It's been lovely to finally find someone a similar age with exactly the same condition. I also wish we lived nearer and I'm hoping one day we will finally meet up.
Barbara sounds like a real fighter and I can't wait to read a post from her.
Thank you so much for letting me know she is doing well.
Please pass on my love to her and of course to you and all the family. You all remain in my thoughts ❤❤ xx
Nicola Laker I was a big blue baby ( I just never grew 😢) and ever since I can remember my brother has called ... Read more
Nicola Laker I was a big blue baby ( I just never grew 😢) and ever since I can remember my brother has called me Smurf...and I'm now almost 51 and still called it 😅 xx
Anyway, I'm coming up 9 months now and I'm not too bad at all. Still get very tired some days and fighting for breathe when I speak is also not helping. I will be glad to see the ENT this week and finally find out what they can do, if anything, to make it easier and better for me. I'm still signed off work as my Dr is concerned about dust getting into my lungs which were damaged whilst on life support. But looking back to how I was, I feel very lucky and I'm making progress every day. I still have pain in my chest but I can live with that but would love to have my voice back! Xx