Patient Pictures of Danielle Elizabeth

My Photos

1080 days ago

Rose Madura, Pamela Gregory, Timothy Andre reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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

Rose Madura Happy anniversary! Glad all is well.

Andrew Dial Wonderful! 🙏🏼

DeLois Tweedy Happy anniversary! So glad you are feeling well and pray it continues. I like your shirt!

Marie Myers Happy Valve-Versary!!

Klara Čičić Oh my God already!! Happy anniversary our dear, brave, smart and beautiful Danielle!

Susan Lynn Happy Anniversary!!

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!!😘

Grace Mason Congrats Danielle!

Timothy Andre Happy one year Danielle!!

Danielle Elizabeth

1172 days ago

jonette kruk, Adam Pick, Andrew Dial and 3 others reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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!

Marie Myers Beautiful work!

Klara Čičić Wow Danielle, I would definitely hang this on my wall! Well done! And I am glad everything is fine. ... Read more

Klara Čičić Wow Danielle, I would definitely hang this on my wall! Well done! And I am glad everything is fine.

Adam Pick Double Awesomeness! One awesomeness for your heart! And, another awesomeness for your painting!

Danielle Elizabeth Thanks everyone!! ❤️

Rose Madura Danielle you are very talented! Glad all is well.

Grace Mason Beautiful painting! My mom paints and I admire those with that talent.
So glad to know your recovery... Read more

Grace Mason Beautiful painting! My mom paints and I admire those with that talent.
So glad to know your recovery is continuing well

Susan Lynn Beautiful! What a lovely gift!

Danielle Elizabeth

1179 days ago

Bradley Dunn, Deena Z, Susan Lynn and 1 other reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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 Z 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.

Danielle Elizabeth

1181 days ago

Mark Buttell, Rita Savelis, Rose Madura and 11 others reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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.

Richard Munson Great, don’t overdo it

Klara Čičić Our beautiful and brave Danielle!

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…

Danielle Elizabeth Greg, what is that guy doing?!? Craziness

Richard Munson No more milk for me.

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?

Greg Lewis It's a vegetarian kick boxer...😂

Greg Lewis Ahhhh my wife didn't think it was funny either...

Robert Miller Just curious, is that picture of yours a recent picture, i.e. some 8 months after surgery?

Richard Munson Is he from a james bond movie?

Ana Brusso Not funny.

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.

Danielle Elizabeth

1201 days ago

Susan Lynn, Amy Berger, Klara Čičić and 8 others reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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 :)

Klara Čičić There is hope for human kind 😆😍

Adam Pick Wonderful!!! Great job Danielle!!!

Pamela Gregory Thank you for being so thoughtful and representing our group as well!

Frank Giovanniello Danielle, that is so sweet.

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 🍪❤️🍪‼️

Rhodie Jacobson This is so thoughtful...Bless you

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!

Danielle Elizabeth

1204 days ago

Susan Lynn reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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.

Richard Munson I was thinking a squid in heat

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.

Danielle Elizabeth

1220 days ago

Adam Baumgartner, Timothy Andre, Susan Lynn and 2 others reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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!

Marie Myers I am so jealous!

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 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rose Madura Look at you! Congratulations!

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 :)

Andrew Dial Wonderful news! Happy for you :)

George Gardopee Danielle - this is really fantastic to see. Congratulations on your recovery!

Deena Z Way to go, Danielle.! Looking strong and beautiful. And giving back to current heart warriors awai ... Read more

Deena Z 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 🥰‼️

Lena Afanaseva Such a great post! So happy for you!

Danielle Elizabeth

1266 days ago

Donna Casaletto, Rhodie Jacobson, Adam Pick reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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!

Richard Munson It gets better, it just takes time.

Deena Z 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 Z Good Danielle, re: off Tylenol. My Crestor wasn't interfering with my liver that much, so once yo... Read more

Deena Z 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.

Danielle Elizabeth

1273 days ago

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 ...Read more

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.

Danielle Elizabeth

1299 days ago

Kimberly Eisenhut, Klara Čičić, Rhodie Jacobson and 1 other reacted to this

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, ...Read more

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.

Richard Munson Good idea

Kimberly Eisenhut Good for You! Take Care of You

Ana Brusso You have been through a lot. You need time for you. Get strong and healthy in all aspects of your lif ... Read more

Ana Brusso You have been through a lot. You need time for you. Get strong and healthy in all aspects of your life. God bless you

Klara Čičić Bravo, girl! I am proud of you. That plan sounds very good. Love it. We are cheering for you!

Marie Myers Sounds like a good plan. You will know when you are ready to return.
BTW, that city looks pretty i ... Read more

Marie Myers Sounds like a good plan. You will know when you are ready to return.
BTW, that city looks pretty intimidating to me!!

Deena Z Health first, girl.

LOUIS MARTINEZ Good for you having a plan. Cheers!

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!!!

Danielle Elizabeth

1300 days ago

Patsy Stewart reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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 Z Patsy, that doesn't seem right that they "deleted" your report. Since when does that happen? Not tha ... Read more

Deena Z 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!!

Danielle Elizabeth

1303 days ago

Brady Busch reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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.

Rose Madura I think it sounds like a great idea.

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?

Ana Brusso LOL Richard, agree with you 😄

Greg Lewis Richard, yep. Yep, aaand yep. Lol

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.

Danielle Elizabeth

1304 days ago

Greg Lewis, Adam Pick, Klara Čičić and 2 others reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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

Danielle Elizabeth

1333 days ago

Susan Lynn, Patsy Stewart, Adam Pick reacted to this

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 ...Read more

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.

Richard Munson The ultimate rehab. Climb a cliff.

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