Patient Pictures of Naomi Gray

My Photos

2334 days ago

Joe Tarango, Dan Baltazor, Rose Madura and 7 others reacted to this

7 months post-op since my double OHS for aortic valve replacement. I'm back in action as a volunteer ski patroller at White Pass Ski Resort in WA in time for ...Read more

7 months post-op since my double OHS for aortic valve replacement. I'm back in action as a volunteer ski patroller at White Pass Ski Resort in WA in time for the season opening.

Adam Pick Love it Naomi!!! I'm going skiing with my family this vacation!!! Can't wait!!!

Marie Myers Nice!

Great going Naomi! I don’t even ski but glad you’re healthy and strong enough to continue your vo ... Read more

Great going Naomi! I don’t even ski but glad you’re healthy and strong enough to continue your volunteer work. YEAH

Jennifer Winslow Wow, that's impressive! Well done!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2364 days ago

Frank Giovanniello , Rose Madura, Shannon Gray and 4 others reacted to this

Hiking in the sun with my husband to celebrate my 6 months post-op anniversary of OHS to replace the aortic valve. We went to Manastash Ridge (18,000 ft vertical ...Read more

Hiking in the sun with my husband to celebrate my 6 months post-op anniversary of OHS to replace the aortic valve. We went to Manastash Ridge (18,000 ft vertical to the top), 15 minutes drive from home in Washington.

Frank Giovanniello You are tough!

Nicole DuPont It’s so great to see how well you’re doing!

Mike Roskowinski That is awesome. Glad you are doing so well!

Tracy Fallu Great way to celebrate!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2421 days ago

Ann Crone, Susan Lynn, Rose Madura and 3 others reacted to this

3 months post op. I participated in a paint out competition in Whidbey Island, WA, in late August. It rained that day, but I did oil painting on this deck for ...Read more

3 months post op. I participated in a paint out competition in Whidbey Island, WA, in late August. It rained that day, but I did oil painting on this deck for several hours. I was still taking Tylenol for chest pain occasionally, but it's getting better.

Susan Lynn You are a woman of many talents, Naomi!! Absolutely beautiful!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2421 days ago

Elaine Cutri, Susan Lynn, Frank Giovanniello and 6 others reacted to this

For my 12 weeks post op anniversary, my husband and I joined a five-day camping trip of Plein Air Washington Artists at Mt. Rainier in August. We hiked from ...Read more

For my 12 weeks post op anniversary, my husband and I joined a five-day camping trip of Plein Air Washington Artists at Mt. Rainier in August. We hiked from Paradise Visitor Center (5,000 ft MSL) to Glacier Vista (6,500 ft MSL). I also did some painting t

Susan Lynn Great couple! Fantastic scenery!

Naomi Gray Thanks, Susan! This picture doesn't show it, but this trail was actually rated as advanced hike trail ... Read more

Naomi Gray Thanks, Susan! This picture doesn't show it, but this trail was actually rated as advanced hike trail, and it's a lot steeper above here. It was at least a good one hour of climbing one way.

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2421 days ago

Joey Hardee, Susan Lynn, Rose Madura and 2 others reacted to this

For my 8 weeks post op anniversary, my hang gliding friend, Russ, took me for a flight in his Glasair around my town. I was able to get in and out the cockpit ...Read more

For my 8 weeks post op anniversary, my hang gliding friend, Russ, took me for a flight in his Glasair around my town. I was able to get in and out the cockpit by myself fine.

Naomi Gray I know I'm behind posting my updates, but I've been really busy enjoying my normal life again!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2524 days ago

Tim Saint , Joey Hardee, Rose Madura and 3 others reacted to this

For my 1 month anniversary of Open Heart Surgery to replace aortic valve, I attended a 2-day landscape painting workshop last weekend in Bainbridge Island. ...Read more

For my 1 month anniversary of Open Heart Surgery to replace aortic valve, I attended a 2-day landscape painting workshop last weekend in Bainbridge Island. I drove myself for 2 hours and took a ferry from Seattle. My painting rehab trip.

Naomi Gray I realized that there were so many little challenges as a post-op patient: driving and parking around ... Read more

Naomi Gray I realized that there were so many little challenges as a post-op patient: driving and parking around city, carrying my luggage and painting gear, holding the door open, walking around the hills, standing and painting outdoors for several hours. All these thing are what I normally do as a professional artist, but it made me feel like a novice in many ways. This plein air painting workshop in Bainbridge Island, WA, was taught by my favorite artist/teacher Mitch Baird. This trip was just like a rehabilitation for my painting. Now I'm home, feeling sore and pain in my chest and tired. I'm recovering from this intense adventure for a couple of days, and I'm going to paint more at home. And walk more...

Joy Vera Sound like just the kind of rehab you needed, Naomi. Congratulations on another step!

Naomi Gray Thanks Joy! Yes, it was just what I needed to jump start as an oil painter. And it was also a good re ... Read more

Naomi Gray Thanks Joy! Yes, it was just what I needed to jump start as an oil painter. And it was also a good reminder of my limitation for this phase of recovery. The pain in my chest wall (probably from overworking) is bothering me so much that I'm skipping my daily long walks for a few days.

Kate Watson That's such a lovely idea! Bainbridge is so beautiful too, so I'm sure it was healing in multiple wa ... Read more

Kate Watson That's such a lovely idea! Bainbridge is so beautiful too, so I'm sure it was healing in multiple ways. Best wishes on your continued recovery.

Naomi Gray Thanks, Kate! I think seeing the beautiful places and friends (new or old) are great therapy.

Catie B That sounds like such a wonderful outing, Naomi. Awesome! And I hope the soreness eases soon.

Michael Harman Looks like you are doing great for one month, I am at 2 months and finally starting to feel normal wi ... Read more

Michael Harman Looks like you are doing great for one month, I am at 2 months and finally starting to feel normal with normal strength, so my recovery is going well.

Susan Lynn That's a big adventure for the first month! You rose to the occasion, Naomi, and probably are thri ... Read more

Susan Lynn That's a big adventure for the first month! You rose to the occasion, Naomi, and probably are thrilled that you didn't miss the opportunity. Take some time to relax and regain your strength. More great adventures are ahead! ❤

Naomi Gray I must admit, it was a little bit too ambitious to go on a demanding trip like this, and maybe a litt ... Read more

Naomi Gray I must admit, it was a little bit too ambitious to go on a demanding trip like this, and maybe a little too soon, at this point of my recovery. But for me it was well worth the price of more chest pain and recovery time. I made a decision and pursued it, and it does make me feel great, beside I had a lot of fun. Susan, you are right. I need to learn to be more patient, and take time to relax and heal.

Frank DeGrazia Getting back to doing what inspires you is an "elixir" they haven't been able to put in pill form yet ... Read more

Frank DeGrazia Getting back to doing what inspires you is an "elixir" they haven't been able to put in pill form yet. Well played!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2533 days ago

Tim Saint , Joey Hardee, Elaine Cutri and 4 others reacted to this

26 days post-op since my open heart surgery to replace aortic valve. Peter, Puffy the chicken, and I had the first post-op visits with Dr. Ryan, surgeon, and ...Read more

26 days post-op since my open heart surgery to replace aortic valve. Peter, Puffy the chicken, and I had the first post-op visits with Dr. Ryan, surgeon, and Dr. Olsen, cardiologist, at Swedish Medical Center (Seattle, WA). It feels like a graduation!

Naomi Gray My doctors were happy with my progress, and also confirmed that there's nothing wrong with my lungs b ... Read more

Naomi Gray My doctors were happy with my progress, and also confirmed that there's nothing wrong with my lungs based on today's x-ray, and I can just let the coughing get better while taking antihistamine. They told me to stop taking most of those meds. This means that I no longer have to fight with those side effects like nausea, headache, dizziness, constipation, etc. I'm so happy. It feels as if I graduated from a major school. I can also start driving around town from now on!

Joy Vera Great news, Naomi. So glad you've graduated!

Rose Madura Sounds like a good report! Congratulations.

Nicole DuPont That’s great! It sounds like your recovery is going very well! I hope it continues to get better an ... Read more

Nicole DuPont That’s great! It sounds like your recovery is going very well! I hope it continues to get better and better.

Catie B I'm soooo glad things are going better and that you've been reassured about your lungs. Awesome news! ... Read more

Catie B I'm soooo glad things are going better and that you've been reassured about your lungs. Awesome news! It does surprise me that you're driving already, since I thought everyone had to wait six weeks. Enjoy!

Mike Roskowinski Great job Naomi. We are part of the same graduating week. I am jealous about the driving as they won� ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Great job Naomi. We are part of the same graduating week. I am jealous about the driving as they won’t let me drive till next week. She said 5 weeks is good for me. Keep it up and let’s get through this recovery.

Alan Jamieson Awesome! Glad to see you moving down the road of recovery!

Susan Lynn Naomi - you and Puffy are looking well! Glad to hear you're off most of the meds - that's a huge acco ... Read more

Susan Lynn Naomi - you and Puffy are looking well! Glad to hear you're off most of the meds - that's a huge accomplishment! Continued success with your recovery!

Naomi Gray Thank you everybody for your kind words and support. Thank you Dr. Ryan, Dr. Olsen, and the Swedish M ... Read more

Naomi Gray Thank you everybody for your kind words and support. Thank you Dr. Ryan, Dr. Olsen, and the Swedish Medical team for taking care of me!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2538 days ago

1 person reacted to this

Today marks 3 weeks post op. These are the meds I'm currently taking. Cough is still bothering me, and it hurts my chest so bad at every cough. Puffy said "Hi!" ...Read more

Today marks 3 weeks post op. These are the meds I'm currently taking. Cough is still bothering me, and it hurts my chest so bad at every cough. Puffy said "Hi!"

Naomi Gray I'm taking one tablet a day: Aspirin 81 mg, Metoprolol 25 mg (1/2 tablet x 2/day), Potassium Chloride ... Read more

Naomi Gray I'm taking one tablet a day: Aspirin 81 mg, Metoprolol 25 mg (1/2 tablet x 2/day), Potassium Chloride, Furosemide. I'm taking as needed: Acetaminophen 500 mg, Tramadol 50 mg, Ondansetron (for nausea) and Benzonatate (cough).

Heidi Rockwood Naomi, are you still nauseous? I’m so sorry you are still coughing!

Joy Vera Hi Naomi, your line up on the table looks similar to mine except for the chicken. I've still got the ... Read more

Joy Vera Hi Naomi, your line up on the table looks similar to mine except for the chicken. I've still got the cough too but had a chest x-ray to confirm my lungs were OK (either a mild pleural effusion or scarring from the surgery). Felt better knowing that & I'll be having an echo in a month or so which should provide a better look. Using my heart pillow when I cough helps in case you're not already doing that. Take care.

Naomi Gray Joy, I was told the similar thing when I went to the ER for persistent cough. Based on the x-ray, CT ... Read more

Naomi Gray Joy, I was told the similar thing when I went to the ER for persistent cough. Based on the x-ray, CT scan, and blood culture test, the ER doctor told me that there was a scar tissue in the lungs from the surgery, but no virus infection. It's nice to know that my problem is not that serious. But the meds to suppress cough are causing me to feel miserable in other ways, like nausea, headache, dizziness... I'm trying to use the pillow when coughing, but it's not always accessible, especially when I'm out and walking. I feel so exhausted from coughing and chest pain. Bit discouraging.

Alan Jamieson I'm sorry to hear that your recovery is a struggle. Hopefully, you'll start seeing improvements soon! ... Read more

Alan Jamieson I'm sorry to hear that your recovery is a struggle. Hopefully, you'll start seeing improvements soon!

Catie B For what it's worth, Naomi, I was told to hug my chest tightly if the pillow was unavailable (press a ... Read more

Catie B For what it's worth, Naomi, I was told to hug my chest tightly if the pillow was unavailable (press arms/hands against sternum to support during coughing). Might give you a bit of ease.
Sorry the struggles are persisting and I hope things will improve for you real soon!

Naomi Gray Hi Catie, I hug my chest tightly with my arms when I don't have a pillow. But I'm not sure if I'm hol ... Read more

Naomi Gray Hi Catie, I hug my chest tightly with my arms when I don't have a pillow. But I'm not sure if I'm holding on to my chest tight enough. The chest pain seems to be getting worse each dat. Am I the only one with kind of cough & pain issues?

Susan Lynn Naomi - I had to keep my drugs and dosages organized on a spreadsheet. Every one that is discontinue ... Read more

Susan Lynn Naomi - I had to keep my drugs and dosages organized on a spreadsheet. Every one that is discontinued over the next few months is a reason for celebration! You're on them for good reasons, but getting off them is sweeeeet!

Catie B Oh no! Sorry to hear the chest pain is increasing. Please let your cardiologist know. I don't think i ... Read more

Catie B Oh no! Sorry to hear the chest pain is increasing. Please let your cardiologist know. I don't think it should be getting worse and they may need to see you and check things out! Or maybe you can get seen sooner someplace else, since the weekend is nearly here?

Naomi Gray I went to see the PA at my primary care physician's office today about the chest pain. They did EKG, ... Read more

Naomi Gray I went to see the PA at my primary care physician's office today about the chest pain. They did EKG, and didn't find any inflammation in the chest. So the pain is mainly from the chest wall. That's a good news. But the side effects of these meds are interfering my daily activities and walks. The PA told me to talk to my cardiologists about the meds and activities at my upcoming appointments on Monday. I'm having constipation for the last 2 weeks off and on. She suggested taking Miralax.

Catie B I'm so glad you were able to see the PA! I ran by my GP's several times after my surgery with concern ... Read more

Catie B I'm so glad you were able to see the PA! I ran by my GP's several times after my surgery with concerns. Hope the Miralax relieves you greatly and that things go super well on Monday.

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2539 days ago

Joy Vera, Steve Farthing, Scott Ainsworth and 3 others reacted to this

Day 20 post op. Chance of thunderstorms/winds... I heard a little thunder in the distance as I was getting ready for my daily walk. I anticipated a rain shower ...Read more

Day 20 post op. Chance of thunderstorms/winds... I heard a little thunder in the distance as I was getting ready for my daily walk. I anticipated a rain shower in a half hour. I grabbed my jacket and hat. Can see the hails?

Steve Farthing Great progress. (Hopefully the CDB is helping?)

Naomi Gray Yes, CBD is helping with pains, but it doesn't work for cough. I'm taking a few more meds for cough, ... Read more

Naomi Gray Yes, CBD is helping with pains, but it doesn't work for cough. I'm taking a few more meds for cough, etc. Some of those meds make me so dizzy that I won't be able to walk like this without feeling out of balance.

Scott Ainsworth Sometimes I feel like adjusting to the meds post op is harder than some of the rehab! The side affect ... Read more

Scott Ainsworth Sometimes I feel like adjusting to the meds post op is harder than some of the rehab! The side affects can put a downer on recovery.

Mike Roskowinski Good job Naomi. Keep it up you are doing great. We are right around the same time for recovery and I ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Good job Naomi. Keep it up you are doing great. We are right around the same time for recovery and I really enjoy my walks. I do 3 a day about 1 mile. It helps time go by.

Naomi Gray Mike, 3 walks of 1 mile a day is pretty impressive. I just have one long one besides walking around t ... Read more

Naomi Gray Mike, 3 walks of 1 mile a day is pretty impressive. I just have one long one besides walking around the backyard throughout the day. I enjoy listening to Audible on my phone when walking alone.

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2541 days ago

Shannon Gray, Diane Esposito, Peter Eglinton and 1 other reacted to this

17 days post op. I walked for 32 min. on the paved road, and that was my record duration after my open heart surgery. I stopped by the cows to say 'thank you!' ...Read more

17 days post op. I walked for 32 min. on the paved road, and that was my record duration after my open heart surgery. I stopped by the cows to say 'thank you!' for the Bovine valve from a cow to replace my aortic valve.

Naomi Gray I'm still having persistent dry coughs, making it harder to breath, as well as causing sharp chest pa ... Read more

Naomi Gray I'm still having persistent dry coughs, making it harder to breath, as well as causing sharp chest pains. My chest wall hurts so much, and bothers me every time I move. So I've been taking pain meds. I feel so much better after stop taking Tramadol and Zofran which were making me feel dizzy and nauseous, and other side effects. I gradually replaced these with Cannabis oils (mainly CBD and THC, edible).

Catie B Hope you're getting enough relief from the pain, Naomi. I love that you walked over to greet the cows ... Read more

Catie B Hope you're getting enough relief from the pain, Naomi. I love that you walked over to greet the cows. :)
I don't know whether you're on Metoprolol, but when I first came out of the hospital, I was on quite a bit more of it than a few weeks later. It seemed to make me cough and it's a known side effect.

Naomi Gray Hi Catie, I'm actually taking Metoprolol 25mg (!/2 tablet twice a day). I wonder this IS causing my c ... Read more

Naomi Gray Hi Catie, I'm actually taking Metoprolol 25mg (!/2 tablet twice a day). I wonder this IS causing my cough??? I'm taking Coricidin HBP every day for over a week, as the cardiac nurse recommended. But my cough seems to keep haunting me, and it hurts my chest a lot.

Scott Ainsworth Hey Naomi, next time your near them cows, please pass my thanks on for my tissue valve as well. Great ... Read more

Scott Ainsworth Hey Naomi, next time your near them cows, please pass my thanks on for my tissue valve as well. Great to see you taking it all in your stride, I take metropolol twice a day and have for 4 years since my first heart attack and have had no cough but drugs are different for everyone. My cardiologist changed me a few months ago to another of the ‘lol’s and I did get a dry cough and giddy spells. They then returned me to metropolol.

Catie B Sooo sorry your chest is hurting much and I hope that eases soon! I definitely suffered the dry coug ... Read more

Catie B Sooo sorry your chest is hurting much and I hope that eases soon! I definitely suffered the dry cough for several weeks and in my own case, I attributed it to the Metoprolol, since I seemed to have no "reason" to cough and I had never taken that med before. They have you on a low dose... They started me a bit higher and eventually tapered mine down. Anyway, I hope your coughing eases!

Michael Andreas Naomi, I also had a dry persistent cough for several weeks after surgery. I tried everything in pill ... Read more

Michael Andreas Naomi, I also had a dry persistent cough for several weeks after surgery. I tried everything in pill and liquid form and ate so many cough drops, the enamel on my teeth was cold sensitive. One day after leaving a Chinese restaurant, I coughed up a cough drop sized piece of phlegm and my breathing and cough got instantly better. I was on 50mg Metroprol 3 months before and still on it after my cough

Heidi Rockwood Naomi, you look great! I am sorry about your cough and hope it resolves soon. I can’t imagine the p ... Read more

Heidi Rockwood Naomi, you look great! I am sorry about your cough and hope it resolves soon. I can’t imagine the pain from coughing after surgery! You are a true inspiration! Keep up the walks!

Joy Vera I had a cough after my 2010 surgery that got progressively worse & evolved into a pleural effusion. ... Read more

Joy Vera I had a cough after my 2010 surgery that got progressively worse & evolved into a pleural effusion. So do be sure to mention it to your cardiologist & monitor whether it gets worse. I’ve got one this time too but it’s not worsening. Still, I see the cardiologist’s PA tomorrow & will make sure she knows about it. Take care.

Naomi Gray Thanks Joy. I'm going to let the nurse know about my cough. It's frustrating that this is a long week ... Read more

Naomi Gray Thanks Joy. I'm going to let the nurse know about my cough. It's frustrating that this is a long weekend, and the doctors offices are still closed.

Rose Madura Hi Naomi - are you on Amiodorone (sp)? That will make you cough. I had a persistent cough and was r ... Read more

Rose Madura Hi Naomi - are you on Amiodorone (sp)? That will make you cough. I had a persistent cough and was re-hospitalized with fluid around my lungs. You may want to talk to the doctor about it.

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2545 days ago

Joey Hardee, Susan Lynn, Ron Weaver and 4 others reacted to this

14 days post op. Lounging on the bench with the original Puffy (not stuffed version) in our backyard. Still dealing with nausea, pain, dry coughs, skin reaction ...Read more

14 days post op. Lounging on the bench with the original Puffy (not stuffed version) in our backyard. Still dealing with nausea, pain, dry coughs, skin reaction to adhesives, etc. But I'm feeing stronger day bay day.

Susan Lynn Hope your symptoms subside, soon. You're looking well, Naomi! Love seeing Puffy, too!

Diane Esposito Naomi, you look great! Well and relaxed and the chicken is adorable, I’ll bet she missed you while ... Read more

Diane Esposito Naomi, you look great! Well and relaxed and the chicken is adorable, I’ll bet she missed you while you were away. You will feel even better at 3 weeks, I noticed a big difference between 2 and 3 weeks, though I’m still dealing with body aches which began in the hospital ( can’t figure out what’s causing them) I hope your nausea goes away soon!

Marie Myers Wow! You have really had a rough time with nausea. Hope that subsides quickly.

Mava Reif I struggled with nausea too. I had no appetite and my sense of taste changed. Sweet things upset my ... Read more

Mava Reif I struggled with nausea too. I had no appetite and my sense of taste changed. Sweet things upset my stomach, and the food I loved just didn't taste appetizing. For me, the nausea gradually subsided over the first 5 weeks. My appetite didn't come back until about the 12 week. I'm now at 14 weeks & while most things taste good now I'm still not back to eating sweet things. I do feel much better in every way now. It's not an easy time, but so worth it! God bless!

Naomi Gray My nausea seems to be caused by the pain meds, especially narcotics, even with Zofran, anti-nausea me ... Read more

Naomi Gray My nausea seems to be caused by the pain meds, especially narcotics, even with Zofran, anti-nausea med. I mainly switched to Tramadol/Zofran a week ago, but those make me feel nauseous, dizzy and affect my vision. I'm taking just Acetaminophen 500 mg and edible CBD today, and I feel so much better that I was able to take a short walk on the street by myself.

Catie B I hope it won't take much longer for your stomach symptoms to subside, Naomi! You and Puffy are looki ... Read more

Catie B I hope it won't take much longer for your stomach symptoms to subside, Naomi! You and Puffy are lookin' good!

Thomas Brusstar I had a big itchy red stripe wherever any adhesive touched me! The worst redness when I left the hos ... Read more

Thomas Brusstar I had a big itchy red stripe wherever any adhesive touched me! The worst redness when I left the hospital was all these squares and stripes of skin irritation. And then rash from the antibiotics causing red reaction to the least bit of sun. And then it all gets better!

Meredith Bray Girl, you should have seen me in the backyard with my hens the first time I let them out after surger ... Read more

Meredith Bray Girl, you should have seen me in the backyard with my hens the first time I let them out after surgery. I exhausted myself getting the girls back in their coop! We had a barred rock that had an impacted crop so we did surgery on her. She was my Sweet Pea, and she always sat on the bench with me like your Puffy.
Meredith

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2552 days ago

Joey Hardee, Kaaren Carone, Tim Saint and 5 others reacted to this

I'm back at my healing nest. This time, I'm holding Kiki the real chicken, instead of stuffed Puffy! This picture is from yesterday.

Naomi Gray I had some palpitation during the day, but it went away after sitting back in this recliner. So nice ... Read more

Naomi Gray I had some palpitation during the day, but it went away after sitting back in this recliner. So nice to be able to hug our pet chickens. It was rainy, but my husband and I drove to a supermarket as a part of my daily walk. Pushing the small shopping cart works like a walker. It helps me feel stable. The shower bench arrived from Amazon, and I took shower by myself. The bench makes me feel more secure and stable in the shower. I'm still dealing with mild nausea and headache, but it's been managing with med. The biggest trouble right now is the skin reaction to the adhesive on my chest. Everywhere they used adhesive turned red, and it's been itching like crazy.

Marie Myers Great to see you home! I also had some palpitations on and off the first few weeks. They lessened wi ... Read more

Marie Myers Great to see you home! I also had some palpitations on and off the first few weeks. They lessened with time.

Diane Esposito Kiki must be so happy that you’re home!

Joy Vera Glad you've made this step in your recovery. You look snug in your recliner with the comforting item ... Read more

Joy Vera Glad you've made this step in your recovery. You look snug in your recliner with the comforting items (& chickens) around you.

Bradley Dunn HOME AT LAST!

Adam Pick I absolutely love this and all your pictures Naomi!!!! Thanks so much for sharing your journey with t ... Read more

Adam Pick I absolutely love this and all your pictures Naomi!!!! Thanks so much for sharing your journey with the patient in our community!!!

Mava Reif Wonderful to be home! God bless!

Susan Lynn You look terrific! Glad you're home and reunited with Kiki.

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2552 days ago

Susan Lynn, Ron Weaver, Joy Vera and 8 others reacted to this

My husband arrived, and I was finally discharged after 8 pm. We stopped by a Vietnamese restaurant my nurse recommended near the hospital. I had Pho. So nice ...Read more

My husband arrived, and I was finally discharged after 8 pm. We stopped by a Vietnamese restaurant my nurse recommended near the hospital. I had Pho. So nice to have non-hospital food after one week.

Susan Lynn Naomi - It's good to see you eating! Pho is one of my favorites, too. Hoping you're on a quick road ... Read more

Susan Lynn Naomi - It's good to see you eating! Pho is one of my favorites, too. Hoping you're on a quick road to recovery. That comfy wedge awaits you (and Puffy) at home!

Marie Myers Congrats on your escape from the hospital! Let the healing begin...

Catie B Yay!! Awesome!! I hope every morsel tasted great.
Heading to a Pho restaurant tomorrow myself. :)

Diane Esposito Good for you, Naomi! Free at last! You’ll be much more comfortable at home.

Nicole DuPont Congrats to being on the road home! Please share how your recovery is going when you’re in your own ... Read more

Nicole DuPont Congrats to being on the road home! Please share how your recovery is going when you’re in your own comfortable surroundings. All the best to you.

Heidi Rockwood Naomi, you look great! Hope your dinner was good and your appetite is returning! It must feel wonderf ... Read more

Heidi Rockwood Naomi, you look great! Hope your dinner was good and your appetite is returning! It must feel wonderful to be home now!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2553 days ago

Tom McDonald, Tim Saint , Shannon Gray and 3 others reacted to this

We're officially off the hook! I ate 1/2 grilled cheese for lunch, and I didn't throw up. No more nausea, means going home. Changing and packing done. Waiting ...Read more

We're officially off the hook! I ate 1/2 grilled cheese for lunch, and I didn't throw up. No more nausea, means going home. Changing and packing done. Waiting for the ride.

Tom McDonald That's great news Naomi! Very happy for you. Best of luck in your recovery. One day at a time!

Judy S Congrats Naomi! Hope you and the chicken had a smooth ride! 🥳🥳🥳

Dan Baltazor Welcome to the recovery side! Now just one day at a time. You got this!!❤️💪

Ron Weaver Great news. Thanks for the update

Susan Lynn Fantastic news! There's no place like home! 👠👠

Alan Jamieson Awesome! Welcome to recovery land!

Catie B I am so, so glad! I hope it feels incredibly good to be home. BTW, I love your chicken so much, lol!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2553 days ago

My Puffy the chicken wants to go home. Me too. We've in this hospital since Wednesday morning. It's been almost a week. I've made a lot of progress after ...Read more

My Puffy the chicken wants to go home. Me too. We've in this hospital since Wednesday morning. It's been almost a week. I've made a lot of progress after the surgeries. I still can't get home because of nasea.

Susan Lynn Sorry to hear you're not able to go home. You, and Puffy, need to hang in there. You'll feel much m ... Read more

Susan Lynn Sorry to hear you're not able to go home. You, and Puffy, need to hang in there. You'll feel much more confident at home once your nausea is resolved. Think positive thoughts - the worst is behind you, the good stuff is ahead!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2555 days ago

Barbara Wood and 2 others reacted to this

Rising back up from ash! I'm still dealing with nausea, but I'm trying to become more mobile and eat strawberry yogurt.

Marie Myers Sorry you have had such a bad time with nausea. Hope it disappears soon!

leslie terjesen I think I got hit with nausea two days after surgery. Drank lots of ginger ale and also tried to sle ... Read more

leslie terjesen I think I got hit with nausea two days after surgery. Drank lots of ginger ale and also tried to sleep which I could actually do so that kept the nausea at bay. Feel better, it will go away!!!!

I only had nausea immediately following surgery, as soon as I woke up. They gave me something in my I ... Read more

I only had nausea immediately following surgery, as soon as I woke up. They gave me something in my IV to settle it down and I wasn't bothered by it again.
Hope yours goes away soon Naomi.
That strawberry yogurt should help. Yummy Yum! 😀

Diane Esposito Naomi, you have such a good attitude! I’d rather be in labor than be nauseated and you are a real t ... Read more

Diane Esposito Naomi, you have such a good attitude! I’d rather be in labor than be nauseated and you are a real trooper going through this and still being able to add in some humor! God bless you!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2555 days ago

Fighting with nausea. I hardly ate anything because of nausea since 2 nights ago. I took shower and walks again. I just don't have appetite.

Elaine Cutri It sounds normal. Don’t worry, your appetite will return. Just be patient with your body, it’s be ... Read more

Elaine Cutri It sounds normal. Don’t worry, your appetite will return. Just be patient with your body, it’s been through quite an ordeal. Best wishes for things settling down and getting back to your normal.

Lorraine Siri Sorry to hear that

Joy Vera The heavy duty pain meds do that to me & I had to switch to Tylenol only post surgery. Works well e ... Read more

Joy Vera The heavy duty pain meds do that to me & I had to switch to Tylenol only post surgery. Works well enough for pain for me & no nausea. Hope you're feeling better soon.

Catie B So sorry! I fought with that for about three weeks. Eating very slowly helped and eating foods that I ... Read more

Catie B So sorry! I fought with that for about three weeks. Eating very slowly helped and eating foods that I felt at least a bit better about helped too. I hope they find you a nausea med that works, too!

Naomi Gray Thanks for encouragement. I managed to have some bites of grilled cheese and tomato soup, and haven' ... Read more

Naomi Gray Thanks for encouragement. I managed to have some bites of grilled cheese and tomato soup, and haven't vomited even after brushing teeth. I switched to mainly Tylenol. I'm still taking anti-nausea med. Hopefully I can make it tonight without throughng up.

Reghu Madathil Happy to know you are doing well. Praying for your speedy recovery

Catie B I'm glad you've kept some food down! Hang in there, Naomi, you'll get past this. I ate a lot of yogur ... Read more

Catie B I'm glad you've kept some food down! Hang in there, Naomi, you'll get past this. I ate a lot of yogurt parfaits and fruit at first. At one point French fries were attractive. I had to not get too warm physically and avoid physical postures that made me feel more ill. Try Jello or more soup or whatever sounds good to you!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2556 days ago

Rita Savelis, Peter Eglinton, Joey Hardee and 4 others reacted to this

First shower since Wednesday.

Rob Sparling A great feeling, eh?

Alan Jamieson It felt awesome for me, I'm sure it did for you, too!

Susan Lynn You look fantastic, Naomi!

Lorraine Siri You look great! You will go back to normal life and you will feel much more grateful for life. I'm a ... Read more

Lorraine Siri You look great! You will go back to normal life and you will feel much more grateful for life. I'm a witness of that for sure

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2557 days ago

Nicholas Viglucci reacted to this

Waiting for breakfast. I was nauseous all night and this morning since I vomited last night. It might be the reaction to the strong pain med. They make my digestive ...Read more

Waiting for breakfast. I was nauseous all night and this morning since I vomited last night. It might be the reaction to the strong pain med. They make my digestive system sleep for the surgery, and my system takes time to wake up.

Marie Myers Good to see the chicken didn't desert you...

Barbara Wood You look good! Have they given you anything for the nausea? I had a problem with that too & was given ... Read more

Barbara Wood You look good! Have they given you anything for the nausea? I had a problem with that too & was given a teeny tiny little pill that relieved it almost instantaneously - sorry can't remember the name. Crackers & ginger ale helped too! Cute little chicken! Best wishes ...hang in there:).

Steve Farthing Barbara, Could have been Zofran which works great for nausea. Naomi, Ask for some Zofran!

Naomi Gray I'm actually taking Zofran. But it's not working well for me.

Catie B Naomi, they used several different nausea medications with me. Reglan was one, I believe. I'm sure yo ... Read more

Catie B Naomi, they used several different nausea medications with me. Reglan was one, I believe. I'm sure you let them know the Zofran's not effective for you so they can try another med. Sometimes changing physical positions helped me, as did cooling down a bit. Hope the nausea eases soon!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2557 days ago

Tim Saint , Elaine Cutri, Mava Reif and 3 others reacted to this

New room, out of ICU!

Hi Naomi!
Welcome to the recovery side my fellow heart warrior.
Praying that you have a complete and ... Read more

Hi Naomi!
Welcome to the recovery side my fellow heart warrior.
Praying that you have a complete and total recovery.
Peace and blessings to you and your family! ❤️

Alan Jamieson Hooray! Soon enough you’ll be headed home!

Ron Weaver Great news!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2557 days ago

Claire Kreger-Boaz, Susan Lynn, Elaine Cutri and 3 others reacted to this

Making progress!

Catie B I'm loving seeing you with the blue chicken! Yay for more progress!

Naomi Gray This is Puffy. My favorite companion for my journey.

Marie Myers Nice chicken!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2558 days ago

Joey Hardee, Dan Baltazor, Debbie Kelly and 1 other reacted to this

First meal!

Naomi Gray This was about 4 pm. Secound evenig. I actually shared the half of everything with my husband. I had ... Read more

Naomi Gray This was about 4 pm. Secound evenig. I actually shared the half of everything with my husband. I had pasta with salmon, brown rice, apple, banana, and apple juice. It took me a while to do all the activities, but the nurse said it would be a good physical therapy as well. It is my second night in ICU.

Alan Jamieson Glad to see you on the road to recovery and out of the bed! A little bit of appetite is a great sign! ... Read more

Alan Jamieson Glad to see you on the road to recovery and out of the bed! A little bit of appetite is a great sign! I probably didn't eat a full hospital meal until I was out of the ICU a full day.

Catie B Lookin' good, Naomi! Woo hoo to eating well!

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2558 days ago

Thalia Cecil, Tim Saint , Joey Hardee and 2 others reacted to this

Getting back to normal, a little at a time!

Joy Vera Looking good, Naomi. You asked about appetite after surgery. It might not be there the first few days ... Read more

Joy Vera Looking good, Naomi. You asked about appetite after surgery. It might not be there the first few days but mine came back after about 3 days. Wishing you a good recovery.

Joey Hardee There ya go! Out of that bed already. Fabulous!

Diane Esposito Way to go, Naomi! You look great! I didn’t have much appetite at first but it comes back, so don� ... Read more

Diane Esposito Way to go, Naomi! You look great! I didn’t have much appetite at first but it comes back, so don’t worry. Your body has been through a lot but it will find it’s equilibrium again.

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2559 days ago

Elaine Cutri, Joey Hardee, rich monoson and 4 others reacted to this

Just got off the ventilator!

Joey Hardee Looking good, Naomi! Continued prayers for a speedy recovery.

Reghu Madathil Great. I am very happy for you. We pray for your fast recovery

Susan Lynn You did it, Naomi!!! Great to see you smiling! Speedy recovery!

Barbara Wood Yay! Best healing wishes Naomi!

susan STALEY Yay! Great news!

Diane Esposito Great news! And you’ll feel even better once the chest tubes are out. Sending prayers.

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2559 days ago

Susan Lynn, Joy Vera, Elaine Cutri and 1 other reacted to this

Prepping for the OR.

Naomi Gray Naomi consulting with anaesthesiologist.

Kevin Bradley Good luck, Naomi. Prayers for you today. You got this.

Catie B Praying, Naomi!

Susan Lynn You go, Girl! You're going to be fine! ❤

Alan Jamieson You got this Naomi!!

Reghu Madathil waiting to hear from you Naomi. Good luck and praying for you.

Donghua Cai Good Luck! Praying for you

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2560 days ago

Susan Lynn, Kaaren Carone, Rob Sparling and 1 other reacted to this

Before leaving for Seattle, I made bed with a wedge and memory foam pillow. This is where I'll be roosting at night after coming back from the hospital.

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2561 days ago

Naomi Gray, Joey Hardee, Elaine Cutri and 1 other reacted to this

I've built my healing nest. This rental lift chair arrived on Friday. It's the smallest chair they had, but still slightly too big for me. For the past few ...Read more

I've built my healing nest. This rental lift chair arrived on Friday. It's the smallest chair they had, but still slightly too big for me. For the past few days, I was custom fitting it with chair cover, pillows, blanket, bathroom mats, etc.

Marie Myers looks like a comfy little nest...wishing you a smooth journey!

Alan Jamieson That looks fantastic!

And when you come out of your healing nest you're gonna fly and soar like an eagle Naomi.
Wishing you ... Read more

And when you come out of your healing nest you're gonna fly and soar like an eagle Naomi.
Wishing you all the best as you prepare for your surgery on tomorrow and your recovery following.
Peace and blessings to you!

Susan Lynn Naomi - Looks like you've created a very comfy space! You will be snoozing in between walks at home ... Read more

Susan Lynn Naomi - Looks like you've created a very comfy space! You will be snoozing in between walks at home for a few weeks. I suspect with your pre-op activity level, you probably won't need that recliner very long. All the best to you, tomorrow! We'll be here waiting for your updates!

Joey Hardee That does look comfortable! Prayers for an awesome surgery and recovery, Naomi!

Elaine Cutri Looks comfy. I agree with Susan Lynn. It sounds like you will be up and walking around very soon. Bes ... Read more

Elaine Cutri Looks comfy. I agree with Susan Lynn. It sounds like you will be up and walking around very soon. Best wishes.

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2562 days ago

Debbie Kelly, Susan Lynn, Dan Baltazor and 4 others reacted to this

Saturday was the Award Banquet of our Ski Patrol at White Pass Ski Resort, Washington. What a great way to celebrate the end of this chapter!

Naomi Gray Actually, my husband and I each received the "Outstanding New Patroller of the Year 2019" Award. I'll ... Read more

Naomi Gray Actually, my husband and I each received the "Outstanding New Patroller of the Year 2019" Award. I'll cherish this sweet memory through my recovery.

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2565 days ago

Joy Vera, Donghua Cai and 1 other reacted to this

Today was my last day at Jazzercise class before my aortic valve replacement. Louise on the left is my favorite instructor.

Naomi Gray I've been limiting to the Strength classes this spring, avoiding aerobic classes. Since I've been hav ... Read more

Naomi Gray I've been limiting to the Strength classes this spring, avoiding aerobic classes. Since I've been having chest pain this year, I kept using lighter the hand weights, today I was using just 1 lb weights or nothing. Last Saturday, I was feeling light headed all morning, and I ended up not coming to this class. Yesterday, I was feeling tired just by walking around the corner to have lunch with my friend. At least I wasn't feeling shortness of breath like before. I feel like a broken car that needs to just coast down the highway to a nearest service station without stepping on the gas,... without raising my heart rate, without exerting myself at all. Until I get a new valve...

Naomi Grayposted a photo

2566 days ago

Kaaren Carone reacted to this

During the presurgical visit with a RN two days ago, we went over my plans for pain management after discharge. I mentioned the chicken therapy and cannabis. ...Read more

During the presurgical visit with a RN two days ago, we went over my plans for pain management after discharge. I mentioned the chicken therapy and cannabis. She recommended using the edible instead of vapor.

Naomi Gray Actually, I've been practicing getting up and down on a chair with a chicken in my arms, training mys ... Read more

Naomi Gray Actually, I've been practicing getting up and down on a chair with a chicken in my arms, training myself. In this photo, I'm holding Kiki, 9 year old Barred Rock hen. She has a cataract in her left eye and can see only through the right eye. I'm so grateful that my second cataract lens was replaced two weeks ago, and I can see almost 20/20 without glasses.

Susan Lynn Naomi - If you're a skier, you probably won't have any difficulty getting to a standing position with ... Read more

Susan Lynn Naomi - If you're a skier, you probably won't have any difficulty getting to a standing position without the use of your arms, but I love the idea of the chicken therapy! Also, I was worried about taking narcotics for pain management and found that regular strength Tylenol here and there was all I needed. You'll be just fine!

Naomi Gray Hi Susan, you are right about skiing as advantage for strong legs. I still find holding a pet chicken ... Read more

Naomi Gray Hi Susan, you are right about skiing as advantage for strong legs. I still find holding a pet chicken relaxing and fun. A good way to forget about the pain. I'm used to take CBD oil as my pain reliever and does not affect my balance and mind. The nurse was actually fine with my choice. I also take Tylenol and Ibuprofen, as needed, and it's nice to have some options without worrying about side effect.

Catie B What a creative approach with the chicken. I love it, Naomi!

Barbara Wood Kikis lovely! I'm a skier too & had no problems standing from sitting. Best wishes Naomi!

Naomi Gray Thanks Catie and Barbara! I actually weighed several chickens, and Kiki is one of the lightest (5 lb) ... Read more

Naomi Gray Thanks Catie and Barbara! I actually weighed several chickens, and Kiki is one of the lightest (5 lb), within the weight limit of what I could lift right after the surgery. I'm training other chickens to move up to my lap on demand.