About Me (In My Own Words)
For the past 1 1/2 years we have known that Jim would need surgery at some point. When he was diagnosed he was ready to do surgery then--NOW he is not. His symptoms have become worse and the aortic valve in the last echo was 5 mm.
He is scheduled for another cardiac cath this Wed 1/5/11--His last one showed no blockage in Aug 2009 but they want to repeat it so if any other problems are there it can be fixed at the same time.
I am an RN and use to work with Dr. Woodson so we went with him as our cardiologist BUT for a surgeon I knew nothing. I stoped working at the hospitol 20 + years ago now and Heart surgeries were not being done here then. We went with Dr. Woodsons suggestion. We visited with him on the 23rd of Dec. I feel comfortable with him and he seemed to take his time and answer all of our questions. Jim felt comfortable with him and I have talked with a couple of people that seem to think he is a good heart surgeon. (since reading Adam's book I have lots more questions.)
Jim picked the date of Feb 8, 2011--we meat with the Dr again on 2/4. He hates hospitol so this journey should be interesting. I plan on staying at the hospitol 24/7--I told him I was not sure if it was to help him or to protect my fellow nurses from him. I still work full time but now work in a medium security prison as the chronic care infectious disease nurse.
Jim is 62 now and will turn 63 on March 1st. We both use to ride bicycles but ever since my last back surgery 4 years ago now we have become more couch potatoes. I told him this WILL change--We both need to lose weight and get in better shape--I know the hospitol here use to have a Cardiac rehap unit and I plan on getting him in it ASAP. Our work schedule does not allow much outdoor activities in the winter months but once the days get longer we will be walking more and maybe even some bicking.
I am scared--YES--but I also know that we have to really believe everything will be OK & that is what I am working on instilling in Jim. I have had him read with me books and articles on this procedue. The procedure he is looking at now is the Root procedure. He is leaning toward the tissue valve versus the mechanical one. He does not want to be on coumadin forever, or hear a clicking noise. What ever He decides I will back him.
I will update as we go .
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Lawton, Oklahoma
