Yesterday was my 1 year Heartiversary. I wore this shirt to work that was from an AHA fundraiser. I celebrated being able to do the basic things I was unable to do a year ago. The last 12 months were a journey and challenging but not impossible. Sending out well wishes to everyone who is undergoing heart surgery. It will make you so much stronger!
Valerie Allen Thank you! I am glad to hear you are continuing to improve. Appreciate the good wishes to those of us ... Read more
Valerie Allen Thank you! I am glad to hear you are continuing to improve. Appreciate the good wishes to those of us still looking ahead to surgery.
Allen Carkner Sounds like you've had quite the journey. I hope you continue to get closer to feeling some sense of ... Read more
Allen Carkner Sounds like you've had quite the journey. I hope you continue to get closer to feeling some sense of normalcy. It seems like you have a good attitude about this stuff. That's not always easy.
Ana Brusso Hello Danielle and congratulations on your anniversary. You have gone through a lot and glad you are ... Read more
Ana Brusso Hello Danielle and congratulations on your anniversary. You have gone through a lot and glad you are feeling well and doing great. Say hello to your dad. God bless you
Katherine Jensen Love that shirt! Congrats on your anniversary..I hope to be saying the same thing a year from now.
Danielle Elizabeth Thank you everyone!! It was just another normal day which is all I can ask for!
Leona Resch So happy for you!! I’m 5 months post op today and just went back on this site to see how everyone i ... Read more
Leona Resch So happy for you!! I’m 5 months post op today and just went back on this site to see how everyone is doing! So happy you are feeling g well! I’m trying to do so many things gs I did before but still get tired . Not feeling g quite myself yet - doctor keeps say you will! Give it time!!😘
Everything went great at my Cardiology appointment! I gave my ACHD cardiologist a painting I did (in anticipation to a trip to Thailand a few years back) as a gift, with a thank you card. I feel so grateful that my CT and Echo resulted normal for being 9 mos post OHS! The color palette is the same as the failed wall mural I posted here a month back! Hope everyone is having a great week! Recovery feels great once you’re past it 😅
Donna Casaletto Such great news👏🥰‼️Love your painting too!!!
jonette kruk Congratulations and awesome news Danielle! Your painting is beautiful!
I am finally using the bands from Cardiac Rehab at home and an elliptical. I still struggle with opening heavy doors and push-ups but I think I need to push myself to get back to where I was prior to surgery. This photo is from last week when I actually did my hair for once. February 18th marks 8 months post surgery! Everyday is getting a little better. What a difference this is from just 4 months ago when I was struggling with motivation and energy just to get out of bed.
Patsy Stewart You look fabulous, Danielle! I love your hair! I'm so happy that you are feeling better. I remember h ... Read more
Patsy Stewart You look fabulous, Danielle! I love your hair! I'm so happy that you are feeling better. I remember how rough it was for you mentally and physically and I'm so glad you had the strength to make such an awesome comeback! Go, Danielle!!!~❤️
Danielle Elizabeth Thank you so much Patsy! Yes everything is turning around and I’m finally starting to move past thi ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Thank you so much Patsy! Yes everything is turning around and I’m finally starting to move past this medically pause in my life. This page has been so supportive!
Klara Čičić Danielle, so at 4 months post-op, I still have time... :)) your story gives me hope!
Danielle Elizabeth Thank you Klara! The recovery has been so slow, but now I’m feeling about 95% back to my normal se ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Thank you Klara! The recovery has been so slow, but now I’m feeling about 95% back to my normal self!
Robert Stebbins Thanks for the encouraging update. I’m struggling with motivation myself right now and wondering wh ... Read more
Robert Stebbins Thanks for the encouraging update. I’m struggling with motivation myself right now and wondering what comes next. The constant pain and sleep deprivation are weighing heavily on my mind.
Rose Madura So happy that you turned the corner emotionally and physically. Congratulations.
Deena Elani Finally, yes! You turned the corner! You look fabulous.
Leona Resch Wow Danielle!! You look amazing g!! Thanks for posting! I am 7 1/2 weeks post op and walking 2+ miles ... Read more
Leona Resch Wow Danielle!! You look amazing g!! Thanks for posting! I am 7 1/2 weeks post op and walking 2+ miles a day but there are days I amSo exhausted and need to push myself / those days are so discouraging but seeing you now and what you felt like previously makes me feel so hopeful that I’ll gain my energy back one day!! Good for you!!
Susan Lynn Danielle - You and your hair look spectacular! The exhaustion associated with heart surgery is unf... Read more
Susan Lynn Danielle - You and your hair look spectacular! The exhaustion associated with heart surgery is unforgettable, but it definitely gets better. Glad you're doing so well.
All my tests are back to normal. It’s almost 8 months now that I’m past the surgical date. Classes are going great and I’m about to start working out again. I have been snowboarding 3X so far this season! Everyone in the thick of decisions, pre-surgical date, and recovery, I hope you all are staying strong. It does get easier ❤️
jonette kruk Congratulations and thank you for your words of encouragement! Shortly I will be having surgery and t ... Read more
jonette kruk Congratulations and thank you for your words of encouragement! Shortly I will be having surgery and the anticipation of everything is very overwhelming.
Danielle Elizabeth Jonette, I can’t say in retrospect which part is the hardest since each phase is so different. I wi ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Jonette, I can’t say in retrospect which part is the hardest since each phase is so different. I wish someone had told me that I was functioning in survival mode and that it was temporary. Everything heals with time ❤️
jonette kruk Danielle, thank you! As my grandmother always told me "patience is a virtue." Yes, I totally feel I a ... Read more
jonette kruk Danielle, thank you! As my grandmother always told me "patience is a virtue." Yes, I totally feel I am in survival mode to the max.
Danielle Elizabeth What made me feel better was joining an ACHD medical conference as a student (online) and realizing h ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth What made me feel better was joining an ACHD medical conference as a student (online) and realizing how excited the medical teams and Doctors about the advancements made in Cardiology. The surgical and medical team are there to improve your condition through surgical interventions. One slide in the conference grouped their knowledge in each case as: Known/Known (diagnosis and outcome) Known/Unknown and Unknown/Unknown. Any complications are somewhat expected within a range. During recovery the hope is to normalize. For my case the only unknown was which valve type and each option just had different outcomes. There is a medical pathway for each potential “unknown” and personally I felt best when I left my trust completely in my medical teams decisions.
Danielle Elizabeth Thanks everyone! When I found out I’d eventually need open heart surgery I got involved in kickboxi ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Thanks everyone! When I found out I’d eventually need open heart surgery I got involved in kickboxing and became vegetarian. I don’t expect to reach my previous level of fitness and I’ll just have fun with it! I’d say the silver lining of congenital heart disease for me was taking control of my diet and exercise prior to surgery. Curious what getting back in the fitness journey will feel like.
Donna Casaletto Thank you for these encouraging words ❤️💪🥰‼️You look amazing too 😘
Greg Lewis Way to go!! Keep it up! ...you might know this guy..
Marie Myers Love to see that cow get a chance to kick back at him…
Robert Miller I know it was meant as fun but that's a disturbing image for someone who spent almost all school vaca ... Read more
Robert Miller I know it was meant as fun but that's a disturbing image for someone who spent almost all school vacations on grandpa's farm where the cows were outside on green pastures during the day, wore cowbells, each cow had a name (and they knew exactly their space when we got them back in the evening), etc. We also cleaned the cows from their poop when we brought them back. Made their new "bed" to sleep on. Cows can be annoying (and so are humans, dogs, etc) but all in all they are nice animals. Anyways, congrats on your recovery. My surgeon told me I can ski again in March so one more month to go. I missed one of the greatest season in many, many years but another one will come, I am sure...
Danielle Elizabeth One of the biggest reason I couldn’t eat meat was when I found out bovine and pig valves save human ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth One of the biggest reason I couldn’t eat meat was when I found out bovine and pig valves save human lives. The flip switched realizing I can’t eat an animal that has physiological compatibility with humans…
Robert Miller @Danielle Elizabeth does that mean you would chose a mechanical valve no matter what? It's an honest ... Read more
Robert Miller @Danielle Elizabeth does that mean you would chose a mechanical valve no matter what? It's an honest question and I am not judging but just wondering. Actually, it gets me thinking how this actually works. Do these pigs and cows get into some special facility where they extract their valves?
Danielle Elizabeth My backup choice to a valve repair was a mechanical valve but because I didn’t like the idea of nee ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth My backup choice to a valve repair was a mechanical valve but because I didn’t like the idea of needing another surgery. Yes the photo was from around 2 weeks ago. My scar is still red-pink and likely is due to hormones. I think estrogen affects scar remodeling, but I’m going off what I’ve been told by an esthetician. I haven’t looked up scholarly articles on the topic.
Robert Miller My initial choice was also a mechanical valve for the same reason, i.e. not wanting a 3rd surgery. I... Read more
Robert Miller My initial choice was also a mechanical valve for the same reason, i.e. not wanting a 3rd surgery. I am at the lower end of the age spectrum where people chose mechanical valves. A valve over a valve might not last long enough. And while the surgery at my age was relatively easy it probably will be harder when you get older. You look really young so in your case I would also have chosen a mechanical valve.
And you got me there regarding asking when the picture was taken. I was indeed wondering about the scar. I am 8 weeks post surgery and half of the scar is barely visible. But I have a whole lot less estrogen... I don't quite care about my and even less about other people's scar (except for the history behind the scar). Hopefully yours will get better but I look at it just as another part of a person's story/life.
Robert Miller I literally just came across this picture. This is my incision when I was still in the hospital. Prob ... Read more
Robert Miller I literally just came across this picture. This is my incision when I was still in the hospital. Probably some 3 days after surgery. At the bottom I had some thread coming out maybe 1/8". It fell off after about 6 weeks or so. The white band is the heart hugger.
Mission cookies at Mt. Sinai: They have been delivered, each with the google docs note that you all signed. I think my dad hand wrote everyone’s first name that was on the thread. 2 bags for 2 patients with heart surgery the same week! Hope Daniel and Matthew get to meet up for the recovery walks and that it doesn’t hurt too much to laugh (use your incentive spirometers!) Sending y’all the best wishes from Colorado.
Andrew Dial Wow that is so generous and thoughtful of you :)
Ana Brusso Sooooo sweet. Thank you and your dad. 🙏❤️
Rose Madura Way to go Danielle and Dad! Thank you. Great job 👍!
Donna Casaletto Awww the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree🥰‼️So thoughtful and kind both father and ... Read more
Donna Casaletto Awww the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree🥰‼️So thoughtful and kind both father and daughter!! Thank you for letting us be a part of this special delivery 🍪❤️🍪‼️
Matthew Malooly I can't tell you how much this meant! The cookies are all gone. But don't worry, my brother ate mos... Read more
Matthew Malooly I can't tell you how much this meant! The cookies are all gone. But don't worry, my brother ate most of them. And these two cuties are waiting to go home tomorrow(!!!) to meet their big sisters. My wife and I are taking bets as to which daughter will claim which. Thank you so much everyone!!!!
Ana Brusso Great to hear you truly appreciate Patrick’s efforts to bring these to you.
Danielle Elizabeth Just seeing the response! It made my dad smile, he has 2 daughters (including myself)! Glad you made ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Just seeing the response! It made my dad smile, he has 2 daughters (including myself)! Glad you made it home!
I was trying to paint a mural - doing things I used to enjoy to get motivated for the semester starting. Someone online told me it looks liked a twisted heart and I should burn the wall 😳 I then picked an accent wall color but was a bit scared of going too dark… so now I have a beige accent wall in a white room. Here is the twisted heart and the finished project for your amusement. Updated photo in the comments.
Danielle Elizabeth The completed project, I painted over the previous design.
Danielle Elizabeth Richard, it does indeed look like that too 😂 another person said it looked like a tape worm. I the ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Richard, it does indeed look like that too 😂 another person said it looked like a tape worm. I then compared online:
Greg Lewis Good call! Looks good. Glad you ruled out the burning!
Danielle Elizabeth Thanks Greg, it’s definitely much more tranquil now! The comment section when I posted the in progr ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Thanks Greg, it’s definitely much more tranquil now! The comment section when I posted the in progress online felt like an intervention.
Klara Čičić Hahah so funny :) you are amazing Danielle! Final product is lovely. And the first option made me thi ... Read more
Klara Čičić Hahah so funny :) you are amazing Danielle! Final product is lovely. And the first option made me think of complexity, difficulties, even ugliness of heart surgery and all that comes with it, ups and downs, tangled curve of recovery...invoked those yucky feelings... That's what art is for, to bring emotions... :) But in this case, those that are better overpainted :))
Danielle Elizabeth Klara, I think you nailed it. It was very overwhelming for me to sit back and look at after I finishe ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Klara, I think you nailed it. It was very overwhelming for me to sit back and look at after I finished the mural. It reminded me of the complexity and chaos of emotions sounding heart surgery. Now that it’s painted over there is so much tranquility! Thank you for your kind and eloquent words!
Donna Casaletto Ditto to what Klara said about the first painting!! Love the final piece🥰!!!
Richard Munson I once had a dog that had a tapeworm and i concur it could be that. After he had his deworming pills ... Read more
Richard Munson I once had a dog that had a tapeworm and i concur it could be that. After he had his deworming pills i can honestly say what came out could have possibly been the most disgusting sight i have ever seen. Don’t read this before eating dinner. It was a kodak moment that i hope to never see again.
Danielle Elizabeth Richard, all good! Just finished dinner. After someone said it looked like a tapeworm I was wishing f ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Richard, all good! Just finished dinner. After someone said it looked like a tapeworm I was wishing for an undo button!
Patsy Stewart Beautiful artwork! You'll always remember what came out of you and how you covered it up. I was kind ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Beautiful artwork! You'll always remember what came out of you and how you covered it up. I was kind of sad that you painted over it, but it sounds like that's what your soul needed. I'm thankful you're doing better. Great paint job btw! That's no easy task.
It’s been 7 months and such a journey. I had open heart surgery in May, 2022 and did not think I’d make it out on the Mountain this season. It’s going wonderful and I finally feel strong again! My purpose in posting this is because we are all in different phases of recovery. I hope this can remind someone who’s anxiously awaiting OHS or slowly recovering, to see that you just have to keep on moving. Keep going forward! ❤️ Thank you everyone here for all of the support!
Leona Resch Danielle thank you for posting! This is amazing, I’m day 9 post aortic valve replacement and home w ... Read more
Leona Resch Danielle thank you for posting! This is amazing, I’m day 9 post aortic valve replacement and home with the usual ups and downs. So encouraging to see you enjoying your life!
Greg Lewis Recovery is a chain of accomplishments, isn't it. Set goals then see if you can do it. If not today, ... Read more
Greg Lewis Recovery is a chain of accomplishments, isn't it. Set goals then see if you can do it. If not today, maybe tomorrow. Thanks for the post! I have been wondering if I could try a green run this year. I don't think so. Not yet. Maybe in March, or something. Have fun !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Timothy Andre This is an awesome post. Thanks for sharing and continued good health Danielle
Amy Berger So happy for you and appreciate you sharing this post. I’m trying to keep my focus past my upcoming ... Read more
Amy Berger So happy for you and appreciate you sharing this post. I’m trying to keep my focus past my upcoming surgery on January 24th by thinking about fun things I will do, vacations, etc. Some days though the anxiety of the unknowns creeps in. Seeing your post was calming :)
George Gardopee Danielle - this is really fantastic to see. Congratulations on your recovery!
Deena Elani Way to go, Danielle.! Looking strong and beautiful. And giving back to current heart warriors awai ... Read more
Deena Elani Way to go, Danielle.! Looking strong and beautiful. And giving back to current heart warriors awaiting surgery is a kind way to ring in 2023.!!
Pamela Gregory Awesome! looks so fun. Glad you are back so soon to skiing (or snowboarding)
Donna Casaletto Beautiful picture and inspiring words ….keep moving forward 🥰‼️
Almost 6 months post open heart surgery. Hope my anxieties are not contagious because I am grateful to have gotten through the worst and for my primary care physician facilitating tons of tests and referrals. I am also fortunate for my health insurance, which has approved everything as in-network and it’s been somewhat affordable. I’m nervous about having an abdominal sonogram this week on Wednesday to take a look at my liver and kidneys since my liver enzymes are elevated and my liver is inflamed. The red cell distribution CV on my blood work came back as 17.8%. My echo is not until December 1st. I still can’t walk and talk at the same time without being winded, I am also extremely fatigued. I am wondering if anyone else experienced this continuing after surgery. I really hope the echo rules out anything worrisome. The EKG showed the left atrial side of my heart is slightly enlarged. I really hope to get back to my high energy self soon. Photo the lab tech wanted to take because I told him the moment wasn’t Instagram-able
Donna Casaletto I think you look fabulous! I hope you get your answers and your energy back ☺️
Danielle Elizabeth Thanks Donna, I’m trying to remind myself that this takes time, patience, and grace
Andrew Dial Danielle, I too still get frustrated at how long recovery takes. I’m 5 months post open heart surge ... Read more
Andrew Dial Danielle, I too still get frustrated at how long recovery takes. I’m 5 months post open heart surgery, and I have really good days, but then a bad day will strike. Just know you are not alone in this, and there are others who can help. You are doing great
Klara Čičić Yes, Danielle, you are doing great! I am glad they are doing all those tests and hope they will get t ... Read more
Klara Čičić Yes, Danielle, you are doing great! I am glad they are doing all those tests and hope they will get to the root of the problem. You are young and beautiful and full of life! I can only imagine how frustrating it must be, still not being your old self... We are here for the support during this challenging time for you. Please let us know how the tests went and how you feel. Bless you!
Ana Brusso Patience is the hardest. Stay focus and know your medical team is doing everything possible to make y ... Read more
Ana Brusso Patience is the hardest. Stay focus and know your medical team is doing everything possible to make you feel better. Hang in there, healing will come. God bless you
Angela Meletiadis Danielle, you look lovely! I too, am not very patient with myself. To me, "back to normal" means skii ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis Danielle, you look lovely! I too, am not very patient with myself. To me, "back to normal" means skiing, tennis, long hikes, etc. At 4 months, I've had to reshape my thinking about what is activity and what is overactivity! Best wishes to you. I think you'll be fine before you know it!
Marie Myers Patience was a huge lesson for me in recovery. I hope you can get to the bottom of your latest medica ... Read more
Marie Myers Patience was a huge lesson for me in recovery. I hope you can get to the bottom of your latest medical mysteries soon!
Deena Elani Are you taking lots of tylenol? It can elevate your liver enzymes. Did for me.
Danielle Elizabeth Deena, yes I was taking lots of Tylenol so I’ve discontinued it. I was also instructed to discontin ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Deena, yes I was taking lots of Tylenol so I’ve discontinued it. I was also instructed to discontinue the generic Lipitor I was taking. My physical strength is coming back, but the fatigue is real. My abdomen sonogram is appointment is tomorrow at 7pm. I picked up a 6 hour shift at the hospital prior to my appointment since I’ll already be there.
Deena Elani Good Danielle, re: off Tylenol. My Crestor wasn't interfering with my liver that much, so once yo... Read more
Deena Elani Good Danielle, re: off Tylenol. My Crestor wasn't interfering with my liver that much, so once your AST and ALT normalize might want to try it again. But, yeah, your liver needs a break. Everyone's fatigue varies and you had post surgical issues with your lung, so that can delay your recovery. It's good in the meantime that you check everything out, because no one likes hindsight:).
In the meantime, try to do things that give you moments of joy, because it makes a big difference. You're really young and when you are such you don't expect your body to "give -in". It has to be unnerving. Us older folks get prepped for it. But this journey will give you a prospective on life that you only usually gain through living many more years and that, Danielle, will be a gift that will help you along the many more years that you have to live, give and receive. Godspeed.
Danielle Elizabeth Deena, that is so touching. Thank you. I’ll have the results of the Sonogram in a few days and my D ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Deena, that is so touching. Thank you. I’ll have the results of the Sonogram in a few days and my Dr messaged me that I can also discontinue the toprol. Cardiology is complicated but knowing I had a bicuspid valve since I was 12, gave me lots of time to accept I’d eventually need surgery. I just have to accept now that answers post surgery also come with time.
My primary ordered an iron study, ekg, echo and other bloodwork to help explain my insatiable fatigue. The results are coming back and a lot of numbers are abnormal around the iron study and other enzyme levels. He also ordered a sleep study which makes sense. I think the hardest part for me today was to hear my symptoms are expected for a chronic illness. I had never thought of a congenital heart defect as a chronic illness and hearing it made me feel like he was talking about someone else. I guess I’d always thought of needing heart surgery one day, just as crossing off an item from a to-do list. I had the surgery, and now even more recovery items need to be crossed off, it’s frustrating because my mind is ready to move past this but my body isn’t. Thanks everyone for the space to vent and the support ❤️ Photo is from a few Springs ago.
Andrew Dial Some things take time to get figured out. Be patient, and stay optimistic. You are on the right track ... Read more
Andrew Dial Some things take time to get figured out. Be patient, and stay optimistic. You are on the right track to getting these things fixed. I, like you, have similar feelings… my mind says Let’s Go! But my body says NOPE!
One day at a time Danielle.
Robert Miller Recovery is the hardest part but after a few months it gets a lot better. Do your lung exercises, go ... Read more
Robert Miller Recovery is the hardest part but after a few months it gets a lot better. Do your lung exercises, go for walks, try push yourself to what you were capable doing before. You will get there. Stay positive and look forward to many more years.
Rose Madura I always have said that heart surgery is a journey that ultimately takes us to a place of better hea... Read more
Rose Madura I always have said that heart surgery is a journey that ultimately takes us to a place of better health. Hang in there. You can do this. Be patient with the process.
I decided to start the process for a medical withdrawal this semester to heal emotionally, mentally, and regain aspects of my life back like meal prepping, meditation, seeing a therapist regularly, and attending cardiac rehab. This has been a wild year and I need time to get out of fight/flight mode. Here is a view from the University I attend. I’ll be back to classes in the Spring.
Jay Burgess Good idea. Is that Denver or somewhere else?
Rose Madura Yes, I concur with the others. Smart move. You've been through a lot. Take care of yourself. You'll ... Read more
Rose Madura Yes, I concur with the others. Smart move. You've been through a lot. Take care of yourself. You'll be glad you did.
Danielle Elizabeth Hey, yes it is Denver, my heart is acclimated to the high altitude! Im not functioning very well in a ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Hey, yes it is Denver, my heart is acclimated to the high altitude! Im not functioning very well in all aspects of my life. It’s definitely a sign to slow down. Thanks everyone for the support.
Earl Brigham Not sure what University you are attending, but my son graduated from University of Denver with a Mas ... Read more
Earl Brigham Not sure what University you are attending, but my son graduated from University of Denver with a Master's degree a year ago... I am sending you good vibes!!!
I found this surgical report from my surgery interesting. If anyone is curious about what happens step-by-step in the operating room, this is from my OHS. I had an aortic valve repaired and a graft. I was in circulatory arrest* (*correction) for around 9 minutes, and that’s all the time it took mechanically for isolating and repairing the affected area. The total down time I believe was somewhere between 3-4 hours but I’d have to decide where to start observing the report. I blurred out the names that were listed of individuals who were assisting the surgery. I’m hoping when I finish my Biology degree in May 2024 to apply to PA or CAA school. My primary physician wants me to apply to medical school but that journey might be too long for me and I don’t think my grades will be competitive enough. If anyone wants to see valve replacement manuals from medical school slides a med student gave me, I’ll try to find them and post next week - I used them to organize my questions for the pre-operative appointment.
Greg Lewis Thanks for sharing that! Very interesting! And wow! Only 9 minutes.
Patsy Stewart That’s really neat! I love to read medical reports. I have a question. It mentions being on bypass ... Read more
Patsy Stewart That’s really neat! I love to read medical reports. I have a question. It mentions being on bypass at 10, then again at 10:31 and then off at 10:39. How did you know you were only on it for around 9 minutes when it mentions both of those times? Since my OHS was a failure, they deleted all the information where I can’t read anything about it. All it says is ‘unsuccessful OHS’ and gives the year only.
Danielle Elizabeth Patsy, you are correct. Circulatory arrest was 9 minutes but I was on the bypass machine much longer. ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Patsy, you are correct. Circulatory arrest was 9 minutes but I was on the bypass machine much longer. Hope I don’t make similar mistakes on the two exams I have tomorrow 🤞 Bypass start: 9:06 and bypass end 10:39! I can’t express how sorry I am that your OHS was not a success. Since my valve was repaired and not replaced with a mechanical I’ll have another one in my future. How are you doing now?
Patsy Stewart It was in bold letters and I missed the bypass start! They ended up doing a TAVR. I still have a lot ... Read more
Patsy Stewart It was in bold letters and I missed the bypass start! They ended up doing a TAVR. I still have a lot of problems and it’s a rough road, but I’m fighting like a tiger to get better. I hope you do great on your exams tomorrow. Take all the time you’re allowed and don’t worry about others finishing before you do. Slow and steady wins the race!
Deena Elani Patsy, that doesn't seem right that they "deleted" your report. Since when does that happen? Not tha ... Read more
Deena Elani Patsy, that doesn't seem right that they "deleted" your report. Since when does that happen? Not that it matters now, but it would be good how far the surgery advanced and lessons learned at to what did not work well for you.
Greg Lewis Thats what i was thinking. Pretty sure that would be illegal here!!
I work at a hospital in a very entry level position (I plan to apply to PA school) and I noticed a lot of the patients on warfarin, Coumadin, and other anticoagulants tend to order the same food items for lunch every day (usually grilled cheese sandwiches) for the duration that they are in the hospital. Do you think patients in the cardiac unit would appreciate an anticoagulant friendly diet menu? I think the patient population is big enough - I would have to reach out the the coagulation program or dietary program (I would probably make the suggestion to a cardiac charge nurse though). Fancy grilled cheese sandwich picture for attention ☺️ Thoughts?
Richard Munson I love grilled cheese but not every day. Not sure what else is on that plate but maybe it looks bette ... Read more
Richard Munson I love grilled cheese but not every day. Not sure what else is on that plate but maybe it looks better in person. I like your idea about a menu.
Louise Moore Yes, Danielle!! I think it’s a great idea to have a menu catered to patients on anticoagulants. A ... Read more
Louise Moore Yes, Danielle!! I think it’s a great idea to have a menu catered to patients on anticoagulants. At home I manage my diet and am able to have a routine diet of same types foods along with a consistent portion of arugula. I can maintain a consistent INR rate thus way easily. When traveling or having meals outside the home, my INR swings too much. My feet and ankles swell - too much salt I think- and that raises alarms with me. I think you are right to consider presenting a menu for patients on anticoagulants. Thank you for thinking of us!
Danielle Elizabeth Thanks for the feedback Richard and Louis - I’ve been reading about INR levels but I didn’t know ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Thanks for the feedback Richard and Louis - I’ve been reading about INR levels but I didn’t know how much they can fluctuate and what symptoms the change in levels can produce. I will likely need a mechanical valve in 15-20 years (my valve was repaired) but I’ve been curious about how much the mechanical valves and medication impact daily living. It’s just something I think about often.
Greg Lewis I also think its a great idea. Also low salt diets, fish, low and high Potassium diets, for those on ... Read more
Greg Lewis I also think its a great idea. Also low salt diets, fish, low and high Potassium diets, for those on Spironolactin or Furosimide. But when i was on Warfarin, as long as my amount of greens stayed consistent, my INR would be bang on! Also, whatever the pink ribbons are on, the plate, welp, i just dont know. Lol
Marie Myers Pink ribbons might be purple cabbage in a black bean and quinoa salad…with a delightful sauce…
Richard Munson That sounds so inviting. Thats it, i’m giving up my steak and potatos for purple cabbage and black ... Read more
Richard Munson That sounds so inviting. Thats it, i’m giving up my steak and potatos for purple cabbage and black beans. Maybe next week, the steak is already on the grill.
Danielle Elizabeth Maria nailed it lol yes it’s a quinoa, bean salad with purple cabbage. The sauce was the best part! ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Maria nailed it lol yes it’s a quinoa, bean salad with purple cabbage. The sauce was the best part! 😊
Ed Eller I have a lot to learn about Coumadin friendly diets since I'll be staring on blood thinner soon. So D ... Read more
Ed Eller I have a lot to learn about Coumadin friendly diets since I'll be staring on blood thinner soon. So Danielle's post really piqued my interest. I love leafy greens and I know I'll have to watch them.
Greg Lewis Ed, just get in touch with your local dietician, for direction on your Warfarin and diet etc. Richard ... Read more
Greg Lewis Ed, just get in touch with your local dietician, for direction on your Warfarin and diet etc. Richard, i'm with you. I love my steak. And pork chops too, although Diana kids me that now, that i am part pig...well.. lol
Steven Methot Yes, but this applies for those of us on special diets too. I can't eat oxalate-rich foods due to ki ... Read more
Steven Methot Yes, but this applies for those of us on special diets too. I can't eat oxalate-rich foods due to kidney stones. Almonds, spinach, beets, yams, all the good stuff... AND vegetarian too.
Richard Munson Greg, eat up, life is short. You could eat all the good stuff and get gunned down at the healthy food ... Read more
Richard Munson Greg, eat up, life is short. You could eat all the good stuff and get gunned down at the healthy food store by some irate person who craves meat. Pork chops are healthy and one of my favorites along with lamb chops and mint jelly. Wash it down with some lloyds pork ribs. Enough talk, i’m going to get me a burger with a big slice of red onion . Wash it down with an arnold palmer. Are your juices flowing yet?
Brady Busch While in the hospital,I tried just about everything offered on the menu.Oddly,no grilled cheese sandw ... Read more
Brady Busch While in the hospital,I tried just about everything offered on the menu.Oddly,no grilled cheese sandwiches,even though they're made at home sometimes.The only time the lady taking my order caught me,was when adding too much salt,so Mrs. Dash had to do.But she had one of the nicest voices,I've ever heard.By the way,they taught us at cardio rehab,to limit salt intake to 1500 mg a day.That's about a teaspoon.
I’ve had a lot of challenges since learning I’d need OHS earlier this year. This group has been really supportive and I wanted to say thank you. When the storm fades and the water calms in my life, I want to look at this photo to remember the strength this obstacle took.
Greg Lewis Very well said! And here is my ticket to the zipper club...😁
Adam Pick Great ideas and thread. Here's mine shortly after surgery. You can barely see it now.
Klara Čičić You are beautiful, Danielle! Your scars makes you stronger and even more beautiful.
Danielle Elizabeth You all are awesome, thank you! Scars are beautiful is an Instagram account with user stories but I c ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth You all are awesome, thank you! Scars are beautiful is an Instagram account with user stories but I can’t put my story together now - besides the factual side of things. Plus I am not spending much time of social media. Thank you for sharing your zipper scar photos! It made me smile seeing the responses and how you all are living your lives and are in good spirits!
Lisa Coombe I love my scar, it’s so beautiful, my son loves the ticking and waits for me to say “boom” when ... Read more
Lisa Coombe I love my scar, it’s so beautiful, my son loves the ticking and waits for me to say “boom” when he listens to it
Greg Lewis Yes!! My dad had OHS also. And when i saw him, after my Surgery didnt go go as planned, he hugged me ... Read more
Greg Lewis Yes!! My dad had OHS also. And when i saw him, after my Surgery didnt go go as planned, he hugged me with tears in his eyes, and said" welcome to the zipper club!"
Greg Lewis Haha Lisa! With your son. Thats awesome!
Danielle Elizabeth Lisa, that’s so cute about your son! I don’t have a mechanical valve and I’ve never heard the t ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Lisa, that’s so cute about your son! I don’t have a mechanical valve and I’ve never heard the ticking noise, but I love a child’s imagination. I still remember the first Zipper scar I ever saw on a girl in high school and I was too shy to ask for her story. She ended up reaching out to me after my surgery - it turns out she had a heart transplant. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by this community! Greg, I hope you’re doing okay after your complications. I’m glad you have your dad for added support
Lisa Coombe I was lucky to meet my partner and hear the ticking before I got my valve. My boy finds it calming an ... Read more
Lisa Coombe I was lucky to meet my partner and hear the ticking before I got my valve. My boy finds it calming and waits for the “boom” which makes him happy
Posting a video of when I was stronger in 2020 and went ice climbing for the first time. I am going to skip the winter sports this season since I had OHS mid May. I usually push myself too hard and I’m unsure how much cardio my heart can handle if it’s constricted from cold weather. It’s going to be a shift when I start exercising again because in the past I enjoyed pushing myself to top limits. Any suggestions or advice for returning back to snowboarding and sports?
Richard Munson Not for the faint of heart. Lol. I get queasy looking at the picture
Rose Madura Are you considering cardiac rehab? That may help.
Patsy Stewart Wow!! What an awesome video! Slow and steady wins the race. I suggest to start out at a pace that ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Wow!! What an awesome video! Slow and steady wins the race. I suggest to start out at a pace that is comfortable to you and gradually work up from there. Heart surgery with all of its complications does slow one down, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t make a comeback. Ask your nurses and doctors all the questions that you have. Follow their suggestions, but don’t ever completely give up! You’ll learn what your body can do if you’ll listen to it. You’ll know when you’re pushing yourself too much. Also…having a scarf or something covering your mouth when you’re out in cold weather helps. It warms your breath so that the extremely cold air isn’t going directly to your lungs.
Adam Pick Triple Wow!!! That's amazing. Ditto the point about cardiac rehab. That was the turning point in my ... Read more
Adam Pick Triple Wow!!! That's amazing. Ditto the point about cardiac rehab. That was the turning point in my recovery. I'm doing everything I was doing before surgery. Can't wait to see the next video of you ice climbing once you are feeling up to it!!!
Louise Moore Hi Danielle, you brave warrior you! In time you'll be back ice climbing but I'll second or third the ... Read more
Louise Moore Hi Danielle, you brave warrior you! In time you'll be back ice climbing but I'll second or third the suggestion for cardio rehab. They will monitor your HR and heart rhythm and they will push you safely - and they will push you!
Richard Munson No wonder she aced heart surgery. She has ice water in her veins
Danielle Elizabeth Hey everyone, I have found a few articles about the psychological effects of heart surgery and I wasn ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Hey everyone, I have found a few articles about the psychological effects of heart surgery and I wasn’t sure what’s being in my head vs actual progress. I’m currently at a 3.0 mph pace in Cardiac Rehab on the treadmill with 1 min intervals at 4.6 mph. I don’t feel great at Rehab and am tired most of the time. It makes me feel better knowing post-op anemia and lung capacity only at 75% are hopefully to blame. I’d hate to ever be “too scared” to exercise since I enjoyed it so much in the past. Thanks for watching the video, I miss the snow and sports a lot and can’t wait to heal enough to return to it.
Rose Madura You'll get there. Your body has been through a lot of trauma. Give it time and you'll eventually fe ... Read more
Rose Madura You'll get there. Your body has been through a lot of trauma. Give it time and you'll eventually feel better than ever. I had plenty of complications and what got me through was having faith that I'd eventually be ok, it was just going to take a while.
COLLIN SLATTERY You are really brave Danielle, hang in there. Baby steps first
Danielle Elizabeth Thank you everyone! I was running late to class this morning and I tried running in the cold weather. ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Thank you everyone! I was running late to class this morning and I tried running in the cold weather. I’m not there yet but I appreciate the encouragement 🙏 taking it day by day
Cardiac rehab at 7am. Walk on a treadmill for 3 minutes at 3.0 (normal walk) and then 2 minutes at 3.7 (brisk walk). I had to get to class right after and was completely drained by 3pm. Returning to society is hopefully going to keep getting easier. Thanks for all of the support and understanding here. My valve was repaired and I had an aneurysm repaired.
Looking good Danielle, one day at a time . Keep it up. God bless you
Klara Čičić What a warrior! Keep up the good work! You look amazing, and that scar makes you even more beautiful ... Read more
Klara Čičić What a warrior! Keep up the good work! You look amazing, and that scar makes you even more beautiful as far as I am concerned. We are cheering for you!
Susan Lynn Looking fabulous, Danielle! You're doing great for 12 weeks. Endurance will come - until then, ... Read more
Susan Lynn Looking fabulous, Danielle! You're doing great for 12 weeks. Endurance will come - until then, enjoy those afternoon naps while you can!
Deena Elani Right on, Danielle. Your body will adjust to the extra physical exertion of cardiac rehab. I kept... Read more
Deena Elani Right on, Danielle. Your body will adjust to the extra physical exertion of cardiac rehab. I kept my protein level at a good level, helps build the muscle strength that was lost post-surgery and gave me energy. I had two egg whites and some coffee before rehab and some protein shortly thereafter. Godspeed. The hardest part is over!
Howard Powders Sounds familiar. I was told that the barage of exercises I’m doing at cardiac rehab will help get m ... Read more
Howard Powders Sounds familiar. I was told that the barage of exercises I’m doing at cardiac rehab will help get my mid 90’s post-op heart rate lower. That’s why I’m doing it. Best is the massage included at exercise end that helps with my sciatica. Two hours altogether, exercise plus massage. Mitral valve repair, 7 weeks post-op. Luckily, uniform heartbeat; no afib. 36 rehab sessions; 3 times a week. Good luck with your rehab!! It will make us better!!🙂
Howard Powders Deena, I didn't even know that it was included. Could be a medicare thing. Anyhow, it brings the tim... Read more
Howard Powders Deena, I didn't even know that it was included. Could be a medicare thing. Anyhow, it brings the time to two hours all together. Three times a week, that's a big chunk of time. Feel like I'm back in college taking a 3 credit course. What I won't do for my new old heart!
I return to work and school this upcoming week and am 12 weeks post surgery. My energy is still pretty low and I fatigue easily from leaving the house. I had a RBC transfusion in the hospital and have postoperative anemia. How was it for everyone else rejoining society after surgery? Did you tell your coworkers about surgery? Did you start drinking more coffee for energy or too worried about heart palpitations? I am definitely nervous but I feel ready. Photo is from when it was near impossible to smile and keep my eyes open at the same time 12 weeks ago.
Klara Čičić Thank you for sharing this photo, Danielle! :) I am still waiting for surgery but I am careful on who ... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you for sharing this photo, Danielle! :) I am still waiting for surgery but I am careful on who to tell about surgery, don't know why, but I'm following my gut feeling and only tell the people I trust and feel good about... regarding coffe, it's already a struggle since it's giving me joy but also palpitations (even AF sometimes...) I should definitely stay away from iz, but it's so hard hahah...I drink one in the morning, lots od milk. You are strog and beautiful and I am wishing you all the best ❤️
Rita Savelis Oh Danielle, I can relate. 12 weeks is still so very early! I drank coffee in hospital! Never stopped ... Read more
Rita Savelis Oh Danielle, I can relate. 12 weeks is still so very early! I drank coffee in hospital! Never stopped. Hope you can take it a bit slow in your transition back to work. One can get tired so easily for awhile. Your heart has been through a lot. Most of my coworkers knew about my surgery (because of all the time I took off!). But after seeing that you are alright and that you survived surgery they are ready to get back to business. But you have changed, and others don't always understand. Please take it easy if you can. Keep writing. I love your honesty and I love this photo
Rose Madura I was thankful to be at a point in my career that I could retire. And I was an open book regarding m ... Read more
Rose Madura I was thankful to be at a point in my career that I could retire. And I was an open book regarding my surgery. I also drank coffee before surgery and after and in the hospital would get two cups in the morning. I usually have one cup a day and that does it for me. Rita give excellent advise. Take it easy if you can. God bless you.
Marie Myers All my coworkers knew about my surgery as well. (I work in the operating room, so they all wanted rep ... Read more
Marie Myers All my coworkers knew about my surgery as well. (I work in the operating room, so they all wanted reports..) I was looking forward to going back to work, albeit part time. For me, it was important to get back to normal, and normal was working. I was tired after that first day back, but it was an exhilarating feeling, and I really enjoyed a nap when I got home. I kept up with my 1-2 cup coffee habit as well, though I do notice I am more susceptible to the effects of caffeine as I age. I marveled at the miracle of being back to work after such a life-changing surgery! Hope you feel the same way!
Richard Munson You will be fine, just don’t over do it. Rome was not built in a day.
Deena Elani I am sensitive to the caffeine in coffee, ups my blood pressure. Did so before surgery and still af... Read more
Deena Elani I am sensitive to the caffeine in coffee, ups my blood pressure. Did so before surgery and still after surgery. That said, three weeks post surgery I drank tea and then coffee, because I LOVE it. Am just fine. From what other heart warriors have said, I am the exception re: sensitivity to the caffeine in coffee, so know thyself
Rhodie Jacobson Awesome discussion--so helpful...Thank you all and Bless you, Danielle!
I was retired so didn’t have to worry about going back to work, although I always liked working. Lo ... Read more
I was retired so didn’t have to worry about going back to work, although I always liked working. Love coffee and didn’t feel any changes after surgery so I still drink it. I told everyone that I felt needed to know. Take it slow Danielle, we will be here for you to vent. Blessings
Danielle Elizabeth Thanks group! I read everyone’s comments and they are encouraging. I will most likely need a coffee ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Thanks group! I read everyone’s comments and they are encouraging. I will most likely need a coffee tomorrow AM to get jump started back into society. I am definitely exhausted but it sounds like the experience of normalcy will revive some energy!
Richard Munson You will find taking a shower is more exhausting than working. Unless you are a steeple jack of cours ... Read more
Richard Munson You will find taking a shower is more exhausting than working. Unless you are a steeple jack of course.
Thomas Brusstar My own approach was not to keep the surgery a secret. I thought the secrecy would be its own psychol ... Read more
Thomas Brusstar My own approach was not to keep the surgery a secret. I thought the secrecy would be its own psychological burden, and I was not particularly embarrassed at needing surgery in the first place. My genetically faulty valve isn't my fault. I also wanted people to understand that I might leave early if I'm tired, and that I had a great reason for it. Some people are more private, which I respect; but I just didn't feel like spending an ounce of energy hiding the major accomplishment of healing from a big surgery.
Susan Lynn Only a handful of people knew I was having surgery - none were my coworkers and they still don't kno... Read more
Susan Lynn Only a handful of people knew I was having surgery - none were my coworkers and they still don't know nearly five years later. I hate drama and it's often a byproduct of telling people about heart surgery. I work remotely and went back to my schedule four days after surgery. No one suspected my short absence was anything major. Luckily Zoom meetings were less frequent back then as my pajama wardrobe would have certainly given away my secret! I was anxious to get back to 'normal', but I admit, the short power nap was my friend for awhile.
Kenneth Southard I returned to work too early after only 4 weeks. I should have taken 6 or 8. Thankfully, my job is ... Read more
Kenneth Southard I returned to work too early after only 4 weeks. I should have taken 6 or 8. Thankfully, my job is not physical and am only working on training right now. Right now, I am about 8 weeks out from surgery and feel about 80%. However, at this point I walk usually between 6 and 10K steps per day on flat land. I have another follow up with my surgeon on the 30th and I will see how or if he wants me to increase my activity after that.
Depending on my body temperature my scar changes colors. This was 10 weeks post op and it’s still too sensitive to touch or to sleep on my side. I don’t mind the scar, I feel like it shows all of the anxiety I’ve hidden for years so I don’t have to ever explain myself or my story if it’s visible.
Richard Munson Its a good looking battle scar. Plus an identifying feature. They can always say, yup, thats her.
Danielle Elizabeth Definitely, a lot of people who haven’t had heart surgery were giving me advice on how to lessen it ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Definitely, a lot of people who haven’t had heart surgery were giving me advice on how to lessen it’s appearance, but it doesn’t bother me.
Richard Munson Be proud of your scars. Maybe a tattoo of an arrow pointing to it?
Timothy Andre I haven’t really noticed color changing on my scar. I was told that keeping it out of the sun will ... Read more
Timothy Andre I haven’t really noticed color changing on my scar. I was told that keeping it out of the sun will help it fade over time. Not sure if that’s true but I’ve been keeping it covered for now. However, I am super proud of my heart warrior battle scar.
Richard Munson I still have a scar, somewhat faded after 70 years, of a playground fight and i would not want it rem ... Read more
Richard Munson I still have a scar, somewhat faded after 70 years, of a playground fight and i would not want it removed. Maybe if i had lost.
Deena Elani Ditto, I agree. The scar is my reminder to know what is important in life and of a successful “bat ... Read more
Deena Elani Ditto, I agree. The scar is my reminder to know what is important in life and of a successful “battle”. It takes a long time to fade a lot. It does get “pinker/redder” with a temp change such as a hot shower and then slowly settles down again.
Neal Syverson I am proud of my scars also. I had robotic surgery and am actually disappointed how fast they are fa ... Read more
Neal Syverson I am proud of my scars also. I had robotic surgery and am actually disappointed how fast they are fading.
Richard Munson They must be jealous they did not have heart surgery. I had minimally invasive, small scar. I know a ... Read more
Richard Munson They must be jealous they did not have heart surgery. I had minimally invasive, small scar. I know a guy who smokes and i might hav him burn me one like yours. I might not though.
Kenneth Southard I was also told to keep mine out of the sun for about a year.
Rita Savelis Your scar should match yr skin color in about a year as long as you avoid the sun for the first year. ... Read more
Rita Savelis Your scar should match yr skin color in about a year as long as you avoid the sun for the first year. Scars are cool. But one can feel very vulnerable looking at ones chest and remembering surgery. Your scar begins very high up and looks very nice. I've always been jealous of men who can bare their chests immediately after OHS. I don't mind my scar but I've also got a pacemaker bulge which annoys me. Take care.
Barb Edmonds You've gone through a lot for that beautiful scar. It represents your diligence in taking care of y ... Read more
Barb Edmonds You've gone through a lot for that beautiful scar. It represents your diligence in taking care of your body - wear it proudly. I had minimally invasive surgery so my scars are not visible to the world. I go to water aerobics - some folks think I am making up my story about mitral valve surgery because I don't have "the scars to prove it"!! I do, but I'll never show them!
Brady Busch A doctor told me I could start applying a vitamin E cream on my scar after it healed a bit.So after p ... Read more
Brady Busch A doctor told me I could start applying a vitamin E cream on my scar after it healed a bit.So after picking up some Palmer's and using it for a week or two,I got lazy and stopped.Also read that there isn't any scientific proof that it helps heal scars faster.Some people also,might develop allergic reactions.
Daniel Carbonneau Once my zipper healed I went with Mederma and it worked impressively well, but like most everyone els ... Read more
Daniel Carbonneau Once my zipper healed I went with Mederma and it worked impressively well, but like most everyone else, I've really come to love my scar. It's our badge of honor in this special club we're in. ;)
John Lant My Open Heart Surgery was 4 years ago and now my scar is now barely noticable anymore. Just give it ... Read more
John Lant My Open Heart Surgery was 4 years ago and now my scar is now barely noticable anymore. Just give it time and your body will heal that scar. Then it will be just a faint line that will be your only reminder of your surgery..
Debra Keife Welcome to the club! I have the same incision/scar. Yours looks great at only 10 weeks! You heal very ... Read more
Debra Keife Welcome to the club! I have the same incision/scar. Yours looks great at only 10 weeks! You heal very well. I had all kinds of issues with my incision but now, 1 year and 2 months later, it has faded quite a bit and the keloid at the bottom is almost gone. I too am proud to have this badge of courage. Wear it well! I like the idea of having a tattoo. Not so sure I'm brave enough for that, LOL!!!
Terry Tannenbaum Look how far you've come Danielle. Time is on your side and with each passing day things will get eas ... Read more
Terry Tannenbaum Look how far you've come Danielle. Time is on your side and with each passing day things will get easier. The hard part is over. It's OK to give yourself credit for your stength and perserverance.
Kenneth Southard When I'm walking and my shirt bounces up and down against the scar, it still feels funny almost 3 mon ... Read more
Kenneth Southard When I'm walking and my shirt bounces up and down against the scar, it still feels funny almost 3 months out.
Terry Tannenbaum Glad that your recovery is comming along so well!
Klara Čičić You are beautiful and strong heart warrior :) I hope your recovery goes smooth from now on and your w ... Read more
Klara Čičić You are beautiful and strong heart warrior :) I hope your recovery goes smooth from now on and your work doesn't stress you.. This loving community is here for you. Wishing you all the best!
Deena Elani You will feel so much stronger after rehab. It’s like having a personal trainer. Hope they give y ... Read more
Deena Elani You will feel so much stronger after rehab. It’s like having a personal trainer. Hope they give you some resistance bands to take home as well. 😎