About Me (In My Own Words)
My surgery and recovery went well. I felt like I "turned the corner" in my recovery at Thanksgiving, approximately 12 weeks after surgery. My mechanical valve is rather loud, especially to young ears! I struggle with the constant blood tests and have developed scar tissue, which can make having the blood drawn uncomfortable. Almost wish I had gone with a tissue valve, but at my age the surgeon said this wasn't an option.
It's interesting, because I feel like I handled everything very well, but had 3 additional stays in the hospital for A-fib, brought on by surgery. (I'm one of the lucky 20-30%.) I found I was emotionally distraught at the idea of being stuck again. My veins didn't hold up well for the medication, so I had numerous IVs every time.
Today, almost 5 months after surgery, I am back on my horse, literally. Slightly intimidated by the blood thinner and a little fearful of falling off....but it is great to ride again.
Can't wait for the day when I am no longer afraid of needles, guess that is a sub-conscious problem, because I feel this was a breeze! Not near as tough as I expected and I'm looking forward to being 100% again!
Wesley Medical Center and Galichia Heart Hospital provide excellent care!
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
-
I am from:
Hutchinson, Kansas
-
My surgery date is:
September 2, 2014
-
I was diagnosed with:
Mitral Regurgitation
-
My surgery was:
Mitral Valve Replacement
-
My surgeon is:
Dr. Gyan Khicha
-
My hospital is:
Wesley Medical Center
