Shaun's Guestbook

Hi Sean I had open heart surgery last May the day after Mother’s Day and America 

I have anxiety and prior to I think it comes with the territory I’ve been following mine for 30 years although I was born with it they found it in my 40s 40s shortly after losing my mother way too young. Anyway I feel just like you do every day! And I know many others but also feel this way. Don’t be too hard on yourself as long as you can get through your day on a positive note sometimes we have to just wake up and suck it up. You’re here it’s behind you and you are blessed!

try not to fret but at the same time it’s OK they need something to relax don’t be hard on yourself I learned that the hard way.

Best wishes! Always here if you need someone to talk sincerely

Hi Shaun ,
Also check the side affects of any medication  that you are on .
Get them reviewed if they might be affecting you too .
Are you eating a well balanced diet ? 
Are you having enough iron ? Xx

Hi Shaun ,
You are doing really well and have done really well .
The last few months have been beer busy for you . Lots of tests , OHS , a determined recovery .
Psychologically ,  we have been through a huge life change .Our bodies have had major surgery .
We might have been trying to “ gee up  “ and to be strong for our families and friends .
Allow yourself time to think about the enormity of what has happened to you .
Without surgery we would have died .
Life is precious and we have more of it to live . 
We are human and we are allowed to feel emotional about what we have been through , we are allowed to have ups and downs .
It is normal to feel like this .
Be kind to yourself ….
You are doing really well xxx

Wishing you the very best. I had mitral vale surgery 4 years and chose a mechanical valve because no way did I want another surgery, even though I am now taking warfarin. I suggest that discuss your options with your surgeon and learn the pros and cons o f each option. 



 n. 

Hi Shaun,

My 65 yr old sister had her mitral valve repaired just a little over a year ago, as she had severe regurgitation/heart enlargement and bad AFib. She is now more active than anytime before…riding bicycles, hiking, etc and the amazing news is that her heart is back to normal size! She is like a new woman. Good luck and good thoughts to you 
Regards,
Pam

Hi Shaun! Less than a year ago I had open heart surgery for mitral valve repair or replacement.  Had severe mitral regurgitation & no outward symptoms.  In my case I was fortunate that my surgeon was able to do a full repair. I’d read Adam’s book & some of the messages posted on this website, plus I spoke face 2 face w a neighbor who’d had open heart surgery the year before.  Knowing what to expect was very helpful and calming for me.  In the weeks leading up to my surgery date, I had several planned events I looked forward to w friends & family including my “baby” brother's Wedding.  I’d also purchased a new book and a complete dvd set of a series I’d never seen before.  Different family members, some from a distance, would also be visiting me.   Having things to look forward to helped distract me.  

Everyone’s journey is different, although similar.  Pack Your Patience!  Take it one day at a time.  Be your own best friend.  I’ll be thinking of you!