Jim Jones posted a note for Wes that says:
Wes
Thanks so much for your advice. It keeps the focus on the client and the work and is well thought out. I was struggling with who to tell and what to say. You have answered that for me. Thanks again!
Jim Jones posted a note for Wes that says:
Hey Wes
I have a question for you. I own my own business and need to give my clients a heads up at some point this month. I noticed you were quite busy with your clients pre- surgery. How did you deliver the surgery message to them? Any advice for me? Any ideas are appreciated Thanks!
Wes Phillips I too own my own business. I was very conflicted about how much information to share with my clients. In my situation, my client contact can be regular day-to-day ... Read more
Wes Phillips I too own my own business. I was very conflicted about how much information to share with my clients. In my situation, my client contact can be regular day-to-day and in some situations it is every 4 to 6 weeks. So, I intentionally took on all of the strategic issues prior to surgery, to ensure maximum momentum. Then, I engaged as many team members as possible to get them involved with the clients. This ensured that most issues would be handled post surgery without needing my input.
I then alerted the clients that i believed needed to be aware of my situation about 2 weeks prior to surgery and was very clear about the expected recovery time and highlighted how activity would be handled while I was recovering. I did the communication face to face if feasible, otherwise it was delivered in a phone call person to person. this helped to make it personal, allowed me to answer questions and ease any business concerns they might have had. I did not use email or voice mail. So, there were a few clients that I felt were fine being unaware of my surgery, since it is a team that actually handles the activity.
In looking back, for me this was a good approach, since it kept the focus off my personal circumstance and kept the focus on the client. Yet, if I did not have a capable team (for example if this had been about 3 years sooner, my approach would have not worked because of the lack of good teamwork). the clients were all very understanding and in my circumstance my recovery was very straightforward and I had no complications.
So, Key important clients were aware, some clients were unaware and this worked for me. I felt that my medical situation was very manageable and not something the client needed to focus on. Plus, I had complete confidence in my team.
Post surgery, i wanted to get involved right away, which for me was a mistake and my partners quickly put an end to it! I clearly should have waited until i was not longer taking the pain meds - - which stopped taking about 7 days after returning home (I was only taking it once in the morning and once before bed). I learned it was best for me to focus on recovery and that is what got me back to being useful for the clients.
Wes Phillips
MVR 5/9/12
On September 30, 2013...
Cindy Wilson posted a note for Wes that says:
Your pictures are amazing. Thank you for updating your journal. You are such an inspiration. I'm 4 1/2 weeks out and really appreciate the "lift" in spirits. All the best to you!
Wes Phillips Thanks Cindy for the comment. I read your journal and your attitude is amazing. I have a very close friend who also had open heart surgery about 6 months ... Read more
Wes Phillips Thanks Cindy for the comment. I read your journal and your attitude is amazing. I have a very close friend who also had open heart surgery about 6 months after me. His recovery was a little complicated. Yet, when he and I compared notes on how we had each progressed after 6 months, it turned out we were at about the same level of recovery. So, each situation is unique, yet in just a short while it seems most patients "even out" in terms of progress. Keep up the great attitude.
Wes Phillips
MVR 5/9/12
On September 30, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Wes that says:
Wes
I hope for the same outcome re: more energy. I believe we accommodate reductions in energy if they are gradual and are amazed at the difference after surgery. I am really pleased to hear of your improved energy and trusting for the same. All the best.
Jim Jones posted a note for Wes that says:
Hi Wes
You have a great journal. Thanks for your most recent post. Your attitude is excellent and infectious. I look forward to reading your entire journal soon. Thank you for showing the way.
I also have a mitral valve issue, Barlow's. My date is November 5th, Mt. Sinai, NYC. Dr. Adams, a wonderfully talented surgeon. Like you I am active and looking forward to a reclaimed life. Congratulations on your superb progress. Keep it up. All the best.
Thanks for your comment. Dr. Adams has a great track record and you are fortunate to have him as your surgeon! I found that after surgery, I was amazed ... Read more
Thanks for your comment. Dr. Adams has a great track record and you are fortunate to have him as your surgeon! I found that after surgery, I was amazed at the how much I had been affected by the issue with the valve. After reading your journal, you seem to be doing all of the necessary upfront work needed for surgery, and that is a good thing.
My experience is that after 17 months, I am now capable of doing more physically than I was prior to surgery.
Wes Phillips
MVR 5/9/12
On May 23, 2013...
Went on PCT between Walker Pass on CA 178 to Chimney Creek Campground 29 trail miles further north. Ended up doing it in a day instead of overnight since I only had 6 downhill miles to go at sunset, it was way windy, and I had my headlamp with. So didn't really need to hump 6 of the pounds I had in my pack (bivvy, sleeping bag, and a day's worth of food) all that way. Didn't realize I could go that far. Previous best was 17 miles pre-OHS. Aside from the wind, the weather was perfect for hiking. -- DVB
Wes Phillips It is clear you had a great hike and 29 miles is amazing (for just about anyone). Plus, having great weather is an added bonus. You were on the PCT, which ... Read more
Wes Phillips It is clear you had a great hike and 29 miles is amazing (for just about anyone). Plus, having great weather is an added bonus. You were on the PCT, which reminds me of a blog I followed 2 years ago of a young women who did the entire trail. She is doing the CDT right now (Google "walking with Wired and you should find her blog). Also, just finished reading "Wild" a story of the PCT, yet it is really a story of self discovery. Keep me posted about your adventures!
Wes
On May 17, 2013...
Hi Wes.
That hike down to Phantom Ranch is a classic backpack and a truly MONSTROUS hike. You are amazing dude!
You are showing us just what is possible after valve surgery.
I'm heading off for a 30 mile overnight hike this weekend in the Sierras now that you've thrown down the gauntlet!
Thanks for the response and I just looked at the weather report for the Sierras for the next few days and it looks like you will have changeable weather!. ... Read more
Thanks for the response and I just looked at the weather report for the Sierras for the next few days and it looks like you will have changeable weather!. I curious, where are you going? And 30 miles is a long way to go in such a short time!
Wes
On December 12, 2012...
Wes, old friend...I just looked you up and found this site (your journal).
I sure wish you the very best with your recovery as well as your wife and kids.
Hopefully this surgery will not affect your love of fast & exotic cars.
If you get a chance drop me a note.
Take great care and have a wonderful Christmas with your family.
Very inspirational for me!!! To get out and enjoy the outdoors and do rigorous hiking is the best of both worlds. You must feel exhilarated. It's been 3 weeks since my surgery and I'm feeling pretty good. My heart rate is still high at 90 beats per minute resting, but I'm getting my daily walks in. I'm no longer on pain killers just an aspirin and a couple of Tylenols a day. Like Paul R, I can easily overdo my walking one day and feel wiped out the next. Hope to do cardio rehab at Mercy General Sacramento (where I had my surgery). Kaiser, my HMO, doesn't have a program......?
Thank-you! Keep up the routine of walking each day. I found that there seemed to be no difference on a day-to-day basis, yet as I compared one week ... Read more
Thank-you! Keep up the routine of walking each day. I found that there seemed to be no difference on a day-to-day basis, yet as I compared one week to the previous week that there was significant forward progress.
Wes Phillips
MVR 5/9/12
On August 4, 2012...
Hi Wes, Great news, thanks for the path finding, I'm 9weeks behinds you and looking forward to getting back on track. I have 6 weeks of rehab as a starter, but already enjoying the walking. Find it difficult to gauge just how much to do as it feels great when I'm doing it but the recovery can knock me over for a few days.
I believe for me that the cardiac rehab helped me in 2 ways. One it helped me be progressive in my ability to rebuild my stamina and two it gave me ... Read more
I believe for me that the cardiac rehab helped me in 2 ways. One it helped me be progressive in my ability to rebuild my stamina and two it gave me a regular routine that allowed me to regain the ability to live my life in a "normal" manner.
Also, at cardiac rehab, they will be able to provide you with the coaching needed to fine tune your excercise.
Wes Phillips
MVR 5/9/12
On August 3, 2012...
Hi Wes,
Hey, you were stuck in my neck of the woods, Sacramento. Hope you were stuck in the new terminal?
Hope your echo shows good results. I'll be joining you on the other side of the hill.....my surgery is Aug 13.
Wes Phillips It was the new terminal, and I was able to eat a healthy salad at "The Cafeteria", so all was good.
It looks like your surgery is in about a week. You are ... Read more
Wes Phillips It was the new terminal, and I was able to eat a healthy salad at "The Cafeteria", so all was good.
It looks like your surgery is in about a week. You are about to set out on an adventure, and if you keep in mind that it is a "process", you very likely will find steady improvement and progress.
Wes Phillips
MVR 5/9/12
On July 2, 2012...
Hi Wes,
Your physical rehab efforts are very motivating for me. Before my diagnosis I was an avid runner. I hope to emulate your efforts after my surgery. Also, good comment on the clarity of thinking.
Awesome - an hour and a half on the trails, less than 6 months after OHS. You rock. I've had similar "brain fog" issues from time to time post-surgery. Good aerobic exercise, like what you're doing, helps cognitive functioning significantly. That's also true for people who haven't had OHS.
- Jim Smith (valve repair 3-13-2012)
Thanks for your truly inspiring post. For those of us who are waiting, you have certainly given us something to strive for...and also the wisdom to be patient, keep focused on our goals.....and live!
Continued success as you travel lifes highways. :)
Wes Phillips Thanks Connie I appreciate the kindness.
Wes Phillips
MVR 5/9/12
On June 24, 2012...
yes, we must be accountable for our own health. I've learned to ask the right questions thanks to this website, it's a blessing to be able to learn from so many diffrent people here.
Rehab plus 3 to 4 miles on off days? Wow. I hereby admit you to "monstrous" status. Keep on pushing, you are going to amaze yourself. Peace, bro -- DVB
I just read your journal about the insurance denial. I also just had mitral valve repair, and I just got denied for a $100,000.00 Life insurance policy. It was denied due to excessive cardiac testing and surgery. Go figure. Something that is supposed to save and extend your life...gets you denied for Life insurance. Idiots!
Paul G.
In my situation I did have existing coverage, that I wanted to change. Needless to say, I was unable to change it. On the plus side, it was the denial ... Read more
In my situation I did have existing coverage, that I wanted to change. Needless to say, I was unable to change it. On the plus side, it was the denial that uncovered my need to repair the valve and by extension my quality and length of life have improved. On the down side I will not be able to get approved for life insurance coverage (at least at a rate that is anywhere affordable). Apparently, there is nothing logical about life insurance.
I guess the other good news is at least I had medical insurance coverage (who knows what will be available in the future with all of the turmoil over health care in the United States).
Wes P.
MVR 5/9/12
On June 10, 2012...
Congrats on the success. I agree with you. I think people are not willing to go into the operation believing everything is going to take time. I think many people are in the mindset that once they get off the table that they should be able to climb Everest. Not going to happen. You need to take each day with what it brings you. Glad to see you learned that lesson and rode with it.
Take each day as a new day with new experiences and you'll make it more interesting. Good luck with your continued daily healing. It is quite the ride!
Wes, you are so going to be ready for Summer 2013 backpack extravaganza. A few weeks ago, at my 1-year anniversary for MV repair I spent 3 days hiking in the Sierras for a total of 50 miles. Peace bro -- DVB
Wes Phillips Thanks for the encouragement - - I plan on at least visiting the Mammoth area this fall, so I can say I got to the mountains.
Wes
MVR 5/9/12
On May 26, 2012...
Hi Wes,
I appreciated reading the up lifting message.
I printed a motto for myself and framed it.
I am experiencing open heart surgery with grace and gratitude.
It is an experience that I hope to pass through only once.
Good Heart Healing
Angela
Hi Wes,
I saw that young lady in an interview talking about it, she sure has a great outlook on life. I think you did the best thing by being proactive about your health and avoided major problems.
Hi Wes!
I hear you on the weird tastes and smells,
food was weird for me for a few weeks after surgery, I lost 30 lbs during that time and am glad to say I haven't re-gained it, so it turned out great for me. My nose was sensitive to smells and even after a year still is, I can't stand strong odors anymore, they litteraly make me sick, so I shampoo my carpet all the time, and open my windows to get fresh clean air. I live in the country so air still clean.
Wes, welcome to the club! This is a great place for support and information. I had the robotic Mitral Valve Repair on April 25th, and except for one bump in the road, which will happen, am doing great! Linda is right, it takes quite a while to heal and feel "normal" again, and she is a month ahead of me! Take time to heal and rest, hope it goes well at your appt. tomorrow!
Holly P
Thanks for the insight. I read your story and I also had a difficult time "accepting" that surgery was needed and the logical next step. I will watch ... Read more
Thanks for the insight. I read your story and I also had a difficult time "accepting" that surgery was needed and the logical next step. I will watch your posts and I appreciate your encouragement.
On May 20, 2012...
Hi Wes, I am Linda, had aortic valve replacement in March. Recovery is a uniquely fickle process. One day you may feel great, as if " I got this!" and then the next "whoa...what happened?". I had an absolutely great surgery, no complications, felt as if it were no big deal. And in truth, it was way less painful than I had anticipated. I left the hospital on day 4 and flew back to South Carolina on day 5. Then....the shoulder and neck discomfort set in...the worst part of the whole process! That lasted for about 6 weeks actually. My sternum has finally gotten back to about 99%, almost 9 weeks out. I had a mini sternotomy, incision about 31/2 inches and it was very sensitive really until this week.
The long and short of it is...be patient. Don't give up on the spirometer even if you think it isn't working anymore...it probably is. I continued to use mine for weeks. There will be minor bumps in the road and on some days they might seem like another mountain to climb, but it does get better.
I spend several times a day with my spirometer. The good news is that I am much better with it today than last Sunday. So, I will see how it progresses ... Read more
I spend several times a day with my spirometer. The good news is that I am much better with it today than last Sunday. So, I will see how it progresses this week. Thank-you for your encouragement.
Wes Phillips, MVR 5/9/12
On May 20, 2012...
Greetings from across the country! Wes, I'm a couple of days behind you and really know where you're coming from. I found that the whole smell/taste thing at the hospital was so interesting. Ordinarily, I don't mind fragrances, but one of my caregivers was wearing perfume and it reaalllly got to me.
When I cam home, I was walking around the house, sniffing and sniffing. "Something smells really bad," I kept saying. Turns out....it was me! I was exuding some kind of medicinal smell and it was NASTY. Even the cats didn't want to come near me.
I'm walking around the house from nest to nest, sleeping in the recliner (thankfully, we had a friend who borrowed one) and just working on healing. I live in a place that is very conducive to healing, so walking around the place, watching things bursting into bloom, listening to birdsong, it's all so positive!
I know what you mean about laying off work. I'm a VP at a Public Radio Station and it's all I can do to stay the heck off the computer and trust that everything will get done as it's meant to.
Right now, for us, getting better is our top priority! Thanks for checking out my guest book, Wes.
I am from: San Juan Capistrano, California
Thanks so much for your advice. It keeps the focus on the client and the work and is well thought out. I was struggling with who to tell and what to say. You have answered that for me. Thanks again!