Laurie posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry, I live in Sun City & I'm in your boat, only at the beginning. I have a feeling we have the same Doctors. (Dr G on Talavi & Dr A) Can we talk, please?
Sherry Stevens Hi Laurie, Absolutely we can talk!! I believe you are right we likely do have the same Dr G at Talavi. He is great and I am so glad I found him. Not sure ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Laurie, Absolutely we can talk!! I believe you are right we likely do have the same Dr G at Talavi. He is great and I am so glad I found him. Not sure who you mean by Dr A? but we can sort that out too. I will post my email address and we can start that way. Work for you?
Sherry Stevens Laurie, You can reach me at azrash@cox.net or send me your email or phone #.
Looking forward to meeting you.
Sherry Stevens Checking back Laurie, would still like to meet with you and offer what information and insight I can. Just let me know and we can find a meeting place. I don't know how to get ahold of you.
On June 24, 2014...
Ruth Valenzuela posted a note for Sherry that says:
I don't know how I deleted your post in my guestbook. I did not intend to. "Thank you Sherry for posting to my guestbook. I read your story and journal and it was so encouraging to see how well you did. Thank you for your offer to answer any questions I may have. I'm sure I will have some once I get further along in this "adventure". Again, thanks for writing. I don't take anything for granted anymore."
Jim Jones posted a note for Sherry that says:
Sherry
What an encouraging post! I am so gld you are doing well - it's inspiring. Thanks for the cardiac rehab pointers. I am in the process of scheduling it and I look forward to it. Keep up the fine job and enjoy the holidays. Best.
Jim Jones posted a note for Sherry that says:
Sherry
This is all good news! I can not believe how much you can do after just 6 weeks. Congrats! Also glad that you are back driving. Thank you for the details. I will have surgery in 6 weeks and you are helping as a guide. I hope this will be you best week yet.
Barb Brooks posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry,
Glad you're doing well! Thanks for sharing about rehab. My husband said he is going to look into it for me, and I think it's a good idea. I hope I'm able to drive by then, as I won't have anyone to take me. Not looking forward to the whole ordeal, but if it goes as easy as yours seems to have for you - I'm all set!
P.S. - SORRY for calling you Debbie in a previous message. I must have been sleeping!! :-)
Lisa Obst AVR 6-11-13 posted a note for Sherry that says:
So glad to hear you are doing well. I was going to add to your information. I am now back to work full time. I feel like a human being and things are going well. For anyone facing this surgery, it's not that bad and I have already forgotten all about it!! It's not near as hard as you think it will be. Just have a good attitude and laugh. That makes all the difference. Like you said Sherry, a month post-op and you are o.k. I was driving the second week. Not far, but would go to Walmart alone and do just fine. Glad you are doing well!! Keep up the good work!!
Barb posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Debbie... glad you're doing well! Keep us posted on cardiac rehab. My husband mentioned it, but I haven't looked into it yet.
Week 3 seems to be 'hump' week for most... weaning off pain meds, etc... Pain meds every few hours for 3 weeks is a LOT of drugs. I'm sure I'll be taking just as many, as my pain level is paper thin!
Sherry Stevens Hi Barb, Yep, week 3-4 is the hump for sure. I am in week 5 and feeling really good. Cardiac rehab is an amazing tool you don't want to skip. I have only ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Barb, Yep, week 3-4 is the hump for sure. I am in week 5 and feeling really good. Cardiac rehab is an amazing tool you don't want to skip. I have only been to three sessions so far, but working with the physical therapists and knowing that the exercise I'm doing is safe and monitored not only helps me feel so much better but assures me that my life is back on track!
You are right, take the meds as long as you need to but wean yourself when you can. Getting off the pain meds helped me a lot. It depends on how much discomfort you feel. I was off all pain meds by about week 3 1/2 I think.
You will do fine. We have such amazing doctors, hospitals and technology now we are really fortunate. Not that many years ago this was a life altering surgery; now it is a life-renewing surgery, Yea!! Take care and stay in touch.
On September 16, 2013...
debbie j posted a note for Sherry that says:
so glad to hear you are doing well. I am not sure if I am going to rehab, my surgeon was joking and said if I have no help at home he will send me to a nursing home. I will have t much help all 4 kids are coming for the surgery along with my sister. When they all said they were coming I was like are you kidding, am I dying. But I am glad. I want to make a freezer full of meals for them while I will not be able to after the surgery. They told me no but that is what makes me happy. Keep up the good progress
Sherry Stevens Hi Debbie, I highly encourage you to find a cardiac rehab. It usually starts about week four to get you moving again in a safe environment with supervision ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Debbie, I highly encourage you to find a cardiac rehab. It usually starts about week four to get you moving again in a safe environment with supervision and others that have been "through it" in whatever situation we each have. When I started last week it was the final step in knowing that my life is getting back on track. Any questions, let me know. Otherwise, rest, try not to fret and know that the "other side" is well worth the trouble it takes to get there :-o.
On September 14, 2013...
Aubrey posted a note for Sherry that says:
I am looking forward to hearing about your first cardiac rehab. I am only 2 1/2 weeks out of surgery and will be starting cardiac rehab in week 3.
Sherry Stevens Hi Aubrey, Cardiac rehab is a must as far as I am concerned. I have done very well and healing well, but a day or two in rehab and I can feel the difference. ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Aubrey, Cardiac rehab is a must as far as I am concerned. I have done very well and healing well, but a day or two in rehab and I can feel the difference. Getting safe exercise with supervision and encouragement that you are good is like the last big step in getting your life back. I think it has actually reduced what little discomfort I still have in my chest muscles and incision site. Good luck and any questions let me know. Rehab will help a lot !!
On September 11, 2013...
Joe posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry, It sounds like you are doing great. And I am sure you will enjoy rehab. I have my 3rd session at 9AM this morning. Please be careful doing laundry and lifting. Though you can use your arms a bit and should, you must be careful and how much you lift and stretch the chest.
And I have found using a foam wedge helps sleeping in bed. I also use a recliner to augment my bed sleeping. Even after 5 weeks lying flat is still uncomfortable for me.
Sherry Stevens Hi Joe, I have been careful, my husband carries the baskets, etc and I do laundry one piece at a time into and out of the machines. At least I feel like I ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Joe, I have been careful, my husband carries the baskets, etc and I do laundry one piece at a time into and out of the machines. At least I feel like I am doing something. I've tried all kinds of ways to sleep; what seems to work best for me is pulling my knees up to take the pressure off my back. I am NOT a back sleeper, so this has been a challenge. The recliner is too restrictive; I need to move my legs. I am looking forward to rehab; I feel like I have let my body go for a month, even with walking, so getting back to some movement that is safe will feel very good. Thanks for your feedback and support.
On September 11, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Sherry that says:
Sherry
It is wonderful to see how well you are doing. You have a great attitude and recovery plan. Continued healing!
Denise posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry: I live in Goodyear. I will contact his office today. Thank You so much for the information - I will keep in touch with you!
Sherry Stevens I look forward to staying in touch with someone in my own area ! Sherry
On August 26, 2013...
Denise posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry: Thank you for sharing your inspirational story! I will be having aortic valve replacement surgery in the near future and would like to know the name of your surgeon. Thank you and God's continued blessings to you.
Sherry Stevens Hi Denise, My surgeon is Ken Ashton. He is based in Scottsdale but works all over. My surgery was at Arrowhead Hosp in Glendale. Arrowhead has been named ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Denise, My surgeon is Ken Ashton. He is based in Scottsdale but works all over. My surgery was at Arrowhead Hosp in Glendale. Arrowhead has been named one of the top 100 hospitals for cardiac care in the last few years. My care there was above excellent. I listed Dr Ashton on the surgeon section on this website. He also has a good website of his own. Are you in Arizona? I would be happy to answer other questions from my experience.
On August 24, 2013...
Ernie posted a note for Sherry that says:
Yay! Hope your recovery is smooth.
Sherry Stevens Thank you Ernie, so far so good. Day 12 and only about 18 hours of "tough" but we think we over did my reserves that day. This is hard work but hard work pays off, right?
Thanks for your encouragement.
On August 23, 2013...
Rebecca S. posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry. So glad you are doing well. My surgery for mitral valve replacement is August 28. Lots of anxiety here. Thank you for not posting all the scary details of your procedure and recovery. Some of the posts are hard to read and not internalize. Tell me. Do you remember being on the ventilator? If so, how did you deal with it?
Sherry Stevens Hi Rebecca, I know it's hard to overcome the anxiety. I can only tell you that for myself, the things to do were to learn as much about my particular surgery ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Rebecca, I know it's hard to overcome the anxiety. I can only tell you that for myself, the things to do were to learn as much about my particular surgery as I could so there would be no surprises, and there weren't. And, put your trust in The Lord. I can honestly say that I went into this surgery with very little anxiety. I made sure I found the right surgeon and hospital for me, learned everything I could learn and then handed it all to God. As for the ventilator, it's a little foggy but I knew it would be there and that I needed to remain calm. Once it's time for removal, just listen to your staff and its over in a flash. My husband tells me that the nurse was telling me could take it out but I had to open my eyes first; he said my eyes popped open and in that 5 seconds it was done. Be confident and you will do great!
On August 22, 2013...
Kim posted a note for Sherry that says:
Best Wishes to you Sherry.
I think the valve replacement is a new lease on life. My surgery was Aug 8th, 2013. I reiceved a bolvine tisuue Ao valve, to replace my bicusbid. All went well in the hospital for me. I am recovering fine, lost all of the post op fluid retention and am up puttering around the house. I have a 4-5 inch midline scar that at this point doesn't look like it can be hidden with jewery.
This week it was been most important for me to remember that my Aortic Senosis is gone. I will not be concerned with sudden death from Aortic senosis now for a very long time.
Wishing you the best year ever.
Sherry Stevens Hi Kim. This is day 11 for me and the first day I'm just blah. Limbs feel like they each weigh 50 #, LOL. I am happy the surgery is behind me and my incision ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Kim. This is day 11 for me and the first day I'm just blah. Limbs feel like they each weigh 50 #, LOL. I am happy the surgery is behind me and my incision about 4". I also chose a bovine valve and have lost all the fluid. I'm actually a little over. Pound light than pre surgery which is ok but I don't really need to lose weight. So I guess now I start eating with purpose whether I feel like it or not. We are pretty close in the recovery stage; my surgery was Aug 12th. Lets stay in touch and compare notes.
On August 22, 2013...
Kurt Young posted a note for Sherry that says:
Sherry,
I was born with a bicuspid aortic heart valve. I wanted to join the military, so at my first MEPS physical I discovered the condition due to an abnormal EKG. I had to fight all the way, but I'm still enjoying an active lifestyle and service in the Navy. One day I know I will have to have the valve replaced, which I am fearful will limit my activities. Anyway, I just wanted to share.
Sherry Stevens Hi Kurt, I'm so glad you were able to persue your career even with your valve. My only real issue even up to right before the surgery was fatigue. You no doubt ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Kurt, I'm so glad you were able to persue your career even with your valve. My only real issue even up to right before the surgery was fatigue. You no doubt do very well when it comes.
Today ( day 11) is my first "difficult" day. May done too much yesterday. But trying to push ahead today with walking. Not much pain, just muscles that hurt. Good luck to you.
On August 20, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Sherry that says:
Sherry
Wonderful news and great advice. (I go in in November)
All the best as you make your transition to home. Keep up the great recovery.
Joe posted a note for Sherry that says:
Congratulations on your discharge and successful surgery and hospital stay. I am about two weeks ahead of you and can tell you it gets better and better each day.
Sherry Stevens Thanks Joe, there are certainly some adjustments like finding the best way to sleep at home and adjust enough so there aren't so many "extra" pains from being ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Thanks Joe, there are certainly some adjustments like finding the best way to sleep at home and adjust enough so there aren't so many "extra" pains from being in one position so long. All in all I am feeling that little bit better everyday and less apprehensive about every little twinge. My husband and sister-in-law have been great about helping and watching but allowing me to do more of what I can each day as well. Thanks for your support. I look forward to being able to give that support to others now.
On August 19, 2013...
Lisa o. Avr 6-11-13 posted a note for Sherry that says:
Glad you are home. After 7 days I know I was ready to be out of the hospital. You sound like you are doing well. It's not as bad as we all thought. I'm hoping anyone reading your blog that hasn't had the surgery will be comforted to know its not as bad as you think. I am about 10 weeks post op and feeling like a human being again. Are you taking amiodarone? If so have them get you off as soon as possible. It makes you very sick. Bad side effects. That's the only thing that has been unpleasant since I came home! I am off of it now. You will have good days and a few not so good days, but you do get better quickly. Hope you recover even more quickly than I have! Don't overdo your first few days!
Sherry Stevens Hi Lisa, Thanks for your note. Yes, each day feels a little more toward normal. My husband and sister-in-law are being great about watching me and also letting ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Lisa, Thanks for your note. Yes, each day feels a little more toward normal. My husband and sister-in-law are being great about watching me and also letting me do more as I can. Figuring out sleeping has been the biggest challenge but we are getting down. I even have a whistle so I call if I need help, but mostly I have teased them with; not over much tho, LOL. I will see my cardiologist in a few days first time post discharge and intend to ask about the drugs. I will try to watch your progress as well to encourage me. Thanks
On August 18, 2013...
Aubrey - AVR pending posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hello Sherry, I will a close follower of yours. I am scheduled for AVR August 28th here in Indianapolis IN. Your journey seems to have gone well and I hope mirrors it. I will follow you as you continue your recovery and keep you in our prayers.
Don posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry, keep us posted as to your progress. Sounds like all was a great big success. I think my worst part was prior to surgery, trying to decide which valve. Decided on the bovine and I like your attitude about if there is an issue later, then deal with it then. My surgery was in Sept, 2012 and have had no problems. Wish you the best and it is all in God's hands.
Susan Smith, Jensen Bch., FL posted a note for Sherry that says:
Sherry, you are an inspiration to me. Your story sounds a lot like mine. I too have Aortic Stenosis (Bicuspid) and am in the 6 months watch phase. I just had my echocardiogram and will see my cardiologist in 2 weeks for the results. Keep up the good work and I will keep praying for you and your family.
DD posted a note for Sherry that says:
Sounds like you are doing great! Hang in there-home is around the corner. You will feel so much better once those garden hoses, I mean drainage tubes are removed!!!!!
Nancy posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry, Thanks for sharing your journey. My thoughts and prayers for a speedy, but successful recovery where you are feeling better very soon. I have to do this surgery at some point. I am 58 with AS and AR. Can you tell us who your surgeon was and where you did your surgery at? Keep us posted on how you are doing. Prayers. Nancy
Michael Sullivan posted a note for Sherry that says:
I will need an aortic valve replacement in approx. a year or sooner . I also have a-fib. Would you be able to recommend a surgen. I moved here from illinois and currently looking in ca for a doctor. I live in prescott,az. My main thoughts and prayers have been for you. I am glad to hear that you are recovering well. My prayers will continue for your continued recovery.
debbie@cmcconsult.com posted a note for Sherry that says:
Sherry,
It sounds like you are doing fantastic. That's great. I had mitral valve repair in December of 2008 and went back to work 5 weeks later. I must say that it was 5 months before I felt fully recovered, but now 5 years later; I feel as though it never happened. Hang in there and stay well. Debbie Berman, Chicago
Joe posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry,
That is such great news. Congratulations! It sounds like you had a very good surgeon and are a very good patient. You will continue to feel a little better each day and the pain and discomfort slowly diminish.
Ruth Shore posted a note for Sherry that says:
Good luck Sherry. i too have to have my aortic valve replaced sometime soon. Not sure when yet. I'll be following your recovery closely. I wish you a very speedy recovery.
Joe posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hello Sherry,
It sounds like you are ready and in good hands. My surgery was 7AM on 8/2. You will be fine I am certain. The first few days you will see very slow progress but after the 3rd day you will feel so much better. Stay positive and God Bless.
Jim Jones posted a note for Sherry that says:
Sherry
The very best success with your surgery tomorrow! It looks like you have everything ready and under control.
The waiting is over. All the best!
DD posted a note for Sherry that says:
Best wishes for a successful surgery! I just had my bicuspid aortic valve replaced tuesday and got home saturday. All is going great for me. I did not know that I would gain so much water weight after surgery. I gained 35 lbs. It is slowly going away, and should be gone sometime next week. The more you move, the faster it comes off. You are going to do great and feel better!
Carol Foster posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry,
Just stopping by to say hello and let you know that you are in my prayers. I know it's getting close and your anxiety may be increasing but know that there are those who are thinking of you at this moment!
Sherry Stevens Thank you Carol so much for caring enough to know I'm just a few days away. There are a few nerves creeping in, but I'm staying busy getting things ready for ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Thank you Carol so much for caring enough to know I'm just a few days away. There are a few nerves creeping in, but I'm staying busy getting things ready for my sister-in-law to stay with us for 2 weeks so my husband can concentrate on me ( how spoiled will I be?). And my dear hubby just took me to San Diego ( great change from Az !!) for a few days to be near the water and relaxed. It was wonderful. I plan to write a post Sat or Sun before checking into the hosp Sunday afternoon. I have a friend and a daughter-in-law who will try to post for me till I am up to getting back on again. The people on this site are the best!! Thanks again for the reassurance.
On July 31, 2013...
Lisa Obst AVR 6/11/13 (my new birthday) posted a note for Sherry that says:
Sherry my surgery was originally scheduled for May 28th. We postponed it until June 11th. The waiting is the hard part. I too wouldn't have had the surgery on that short of notice. Just remember the day of surgery don't be afraid. Laugh and kid around with the nurses and doctors. It's not that bad! Not near as bad as you imagine. It's difficult, but it was nothing to compare with what's imagined. The second day you will be alert and able to get up, eat some, go to the bathroom, etc. just hang in there. Where you are at is the hardest part of it all. Rest assured that you will be fine and when it's over you will realize it wasn't as bad as you imagined! When I was released I had a three hour ride home sitting up in the car. By the time you leave you will feel like you can handle things. Use your heart pillow. It does help. We will be following you and please tell us your worries and fears that's what we are here for to support you. Soon it will be a distant memory and you will be doing well once again.
Sherry Stevens Hi Lisa, thanks for your comments. I don't really feel the "waiting" so much as I have a number of things I want to accomplish before I go in and I am blessed ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Lisa, thanks for your comments. I don't really feel the "waiting" so much as I have a number of things I want to accomplish before I go in and I am blessed with a lot of grandchildren that like to spend time with me. My husband doesn't really believe that I am calm and at peace with what is coming, but so far I am. I've done the research, made the decisions, understand what has to happen, and God is with me. I expect some nerves as we get close but my focus is to wake up ready to heal and get well. Your encouragement means a lot. Thank you so much.
On July 30, 2013...
Renee Radocaj posted a note for Sherry that says:
Good luck Sherry! I really enjoyed reading your journal. I NEvER thought to ask about the heart/lung bypass back-up! Good call! I go in on the 8th, which is rather sudden since I was just diagnosed on July 15th. I was lucky he had an opening because I feel everything is on hold until this is done. Again - best of luck and I'll look for updates.
Sherry Stevens Hi Renee, you will do fine. You have had a quick and short time to adjust to this. Maybe that's just as well. A long wait for the valve to get worse can be ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Renee, you will do fine. You have had a quick and short time to adjust to this. Maybe that's just as well. A long wait for the valve to get worse can be a little trying, always wondering "where you are" in the process. I will keep you in my prayers as you will be 4 days ahead of me. We can meet back here on the journal when we are on the healing side. Sherry
On July 18, 2013...
Joe K posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry,
Are you having the surgery in AZ? On which date? I am having mine on 8/2 in NYC.
I hope you are comfortable and relaxing as much as possible. The hardest thing now is the waiting and having to take it easy.
Sherry Stevens Hi Joe, My surgery will be in Glendale, a suburb of Phoenix. It was just moved back a week to Aug 12th due to scheduling issues. I am staying busy with little ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Joe, My surgery will be in Glendale, a suburb of Phoenix. It was just moved back a week to Aug 12th due to scheduling issues. I am staying busy with little jobs that I have not gotten to while I wait. I am comfortable and my sweet husband is taking me to a nice hotel for a few days prior to surgery to relax and chill. I will be praying for you on Aug 2nd, my original date was Aug 5th. We will be able to compare notes as we recover, yes? I am more relaxed now that I have made my decisions regarding valve, type of surgery option and hospital so intend to use the next 3 weeks for preparation and connection with friends and family.
On July 17, 2013...
Paula (email later ) posted a note for Sherry that says:
prayers from Dublin ireland.
i am praying that research will speed up and that a clearing substance will be found to clear away or reduce all calcification of heart vaves. !!!!
especcially aortic valve.
why replace what can be cured ... ???
Thanks
Sherry Stevens That would be such a wonderful thing. It won't happen soon enough for me but I would certainly hope that it would help people in the future. Thank You
On July 17, 2013...
Tom Colavecchio posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hi Sherry,
First let me say best of luck to you as you go forward.
The minimally invasive process sound like the most beneficial option...hoping that my own surgery will be able to be performed this way.
My timetable seems to be a bit behind yours. I am scheduled for the prelim tests on the 26 of July, followed with a consultation with the Surgeon on the 29th. Probable mid August for me.
Probably the same type of choice for me regards to the valve...not a fan of the idea of Coumadin and regular blood monitoring! We'll see!
My best wishes and prayers are with you.
Sherry Stevens Hi Tom, My schedule just got pushed back to Aug 12th for surgery due to scheduling issues. Small thing overall. My hope is that surgery will be even more ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Hi Tom, My schedule just got pushed back to Aug 12th for surgery due to scheduling issues. Small thing overall. My hope is that surgery will be even more advanced in 15-20 years should I need a 2nd replacement. As soon as we made that decision, the weight of thinking about it was lifted and I am very comfortable. Thanks for your support and you certainly have mine as well. As it has been said, God Bless us Every One.
On July 17, 2013...
LeRoy Kloss posted a note for Sherry that says:
Hiya Sherry, first let me say good luck. I had the Ross procedure 16 yrs ago...and the day after that surgery I had an aortic anuerysm (sp)..
not a problem since then...I was 37 at the time..and my surgeon gave me a 50 yr guarantee...we'll see
I'm very active, still work as a railroader..jump on and off moving rail cars and things..very active job is my point..
I wish you the best..and would like to hear how things go for you...
Sherry Stevens Thanks so much for your support. My surgery is now about 3 weeks away, but after making the decisions about hospital, surgery detail and valve, my mind is ... Read more
Sherry Stevens Thanks so much for your support. My surgery is now about 3 weeks away, but after making the decisions about hospital, surgery detail and valve, my mind is much more at ease. The idea of a lifetime guarantee ( for the most part) is enticing, but so is the freedom from the meds and monitoring. I worked in medicine for many years, so I am not afraid of the meds and understand how they work; but lifestyle plays a big part in the decision as well.
Thanks so much for your encouragement.
Uploading your photo!
Looking forward to meeting you.