Allyson Kuechmann - Heart Valve Journal

My Journal

2619 days ago

Kelly Stoll, Jennifer John reacted to this

I was scheduled for an abatement on tues to help with A Fib . They did a new echo to see the heart and found more fluid! The doctor said he would have ...Read more

I was scheduled for an abatement on tues to help with A Fib . They did a new echo to see the heart and found more fluid! The doctor said he would have to go back in and reopen it, putting a pump to drain off the fluid. When I was under and he cut me open, he drained off 500 ml and more was coming. Something was wrong! He cut me all the way open an reopened my sternum. He found a small puncture in my right ventricle. So........I am still here and I am still alive! I survived TWO open heart surgeries! Thank you for your prayers.

Susan Lynn Allyson - So sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds like you're getting the care you need. ... Read more

Susan Lynn Allyson - So sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds like you're getting the care you need. Your strength, bravery, and perseverance know no boundaries! Hang in there! Better days are ahead. ❤

Lisa McLaughlin Oh my goodness, sending prayers and positive thoughts your way!

Anna Jones I am so sorry to learn you had to go through a second open heart surgery. Sending prayers that your ... Read more

Anna Jones I am so sorry to learn you had to go through a second open heart surgery. Sending prayers that your recovery is now in full swing and will be gentle.

Phyllis Petersen Oh no! How scary! It's a good thing they found it quickly and you're now back on the road to recovery ... Read more

Phyllis Petersen Oh no! How scary! It's a good thing they found it quickly and you're now back on the road to recovery. Hopefully, this is your last setback.

Steven Methot The goal is not to collect them. 😉
Glad that you have a vigilant team!

Sue Tom So sorry to hear what happened. Sending you best wishes on your road back to a smooth recovery.

Rose Madura Oh my. I had fluid buildup around my heart and had to have a second surgery but not another opening ... Read more

Rose Madura Oh my. I had fluid buildup around my heart and had to have a second surgery but not another opening of my sternum! So horrible for you. I trust that the doctor also did the ablation while in the 2nd surgery. I hope and pray that you have nothing but smooth sailing ahead from here on out.

Catie B Gracious, I'm so sorry you had to go through that! I'm so thankful to hear you're recovering now, All ... Read more

Catie B Gracious, I'm so sorry you had to go through that! I'm so thankful to hear you're recovering now, Allyson. Prayers here for you.

Debbie Chatzky So sorry to hear this! Wishing you a good recovery the second time around!

Shannon Gray So sorry! I went through something similar, and it just feels like this whole process is never ending ... Read more

Shannon Gray So sorry! I went through something similar, and it just feels like this whole process is never ending. Thinking of you and stay strong.

Rita Savelis You didn't deserve this. It happened. You're still posting and I think you're amazing. Lots of empat ... Read more

Rita Savelis You didn't deserve this. It happened. You're still posting and I think you're amazing. Lots of empathy and compassion for you as you move forward.

Wanda Mroz Oh my goodness... thankfully you had a team that was able to find the cause! I hope it’s all smoo ... Read more

Wanda Mroz Oh my goodness... thankfully you had a team that was able to find the cause! I hope it’s all smoother for you now... you’ve been thru a lot... give yourself to heal! You will be as good as new in no time. 🙏🏻💞

Allyson Kuechmannposted a journal

2625 days ago

Susan Lynn, Kelly Stoll and 1 other reacted to this

The truth is......this is now day 8 post surgery....and I am still in the hospital. The new valve is working great......but my heart is having a hard time ...Read more

The truth is......this is now day 8 post surgery....and I am still in the hospital. The new valve is working great......but my heart is having a hard time getting "dialed in". It keeps going out of rhythm. I have to have another procedure on Tuesday to try to zap it's electrical pulses into rhythm. Good grief!

Marie Myers Hope you get back in a normal rhythm ASAP so you can get home! You will be so much more comfy recover ... Read more

Marie Myers Hope you get back in a normal rhythm ASAP so you can get home! You will be so much more comfy recovering at home. Hang in there!

Chris Purvis Hey Allyson! Glad your heart is taking the new valve well that’s really good news.

Kelly Stoll Great news on the new valve. Hang in there while you are getting "dialed in". Smile... you have a new ... Read more

Kelly Stoll Great news on the new valve. Hang in there while you are getting "dialed in". Smile... you have a new beginning again. In a few weeks, the hospital will be a memory.

Rita Savelis So sorry that you have to go through these OHS aftereffects. This happens to many so it's actually as ... Read more

Rita Savelis So sorry that you have to go through these OHS aftereffects. This happens to many so it's actually as "normal" as going home quickly. Hope yr heart gets its rhythm. It's been through a lot, as have you.

Rose Madura Hi Allyson, I'm sorry you are having issues. I sure hope you can get back into normal rythym soon. ... Read more

Rose Madura Hi Allyson, I'm sorry you are having issues. I sure hope you can get back into normal rythym soon.

Allyson Kuechmannposted a journal

2633 days ago

Susan Lynn, Jennifer John, Mark Wilbur and 6 others reacted to this

Everything is set for surgery tomorrow at 7:30am. I know there will a lot of discomfort, but so looking forward to feeling better! Thank you all for your ...Read more

Everything is set for surgery tomorrow at 7:30am. I know there will a lot of discomfort, but so looking forward to feeling better! Thank you all for your thought, prayers, and great advice! See you after surgery!

Susan Lynn Allyson - You're going to be great! Looking forward to reading your good news and welcoming you to ... Read more

Susan Lynn Allyson - You're going to be great! Looking forward to reading your good news and welcoming you to recovery! 💓

Mark Wilbur Our thoughts and prayers for you... and for your family, too! You have been very positive throughout ... Read more

Mark Wilbur Our thoughts and prayers for you... and for your family, too! You have been very positive throughout your preparations for this day and that will see you through this challenge. Better days are not far away.

Rose Madura Allyson, you will do great. And it won't be long and you'll be amazed at how well you feel. Best wi ... Read more

Rose Madura Allyson, you will do great. And it won't be long and you'll be amazed at how well you feel. Best wishes. Prayers to you and your family. It is rough on them as well. Please keep us posted.

Dan Vechiola Good Luck Allyson! Positive thoughts. This will be one step back but a bunch of steps forward. Kee ... Read more

Dan Vechiola Good Luck Allyson! Positive thoughts. This will be one step back but a bunch of steps forward. Keep the faith!

Kevin Shackelford Godspeed on your journey to a quick recovery.

Adam Pick You're going to do great Allyson!!!

Allyson Kuechmann Thank you!

Debbie Chatzky Best wishes for a successful surgery and easy recovery!

Allyson Kuechmannposted a journal

2636 days ago

Judy Shaw, Lan Bui, Lisa McLaughlin and 1 other reacted to this

I am down to the final week (surgery is on friday). Trying to mentally, physically, and emotionally prepare. If any of you could do it over again, what would ...Read more

I am down to the final week (surgery is on friday). Trying to mentally, physically, and emotionally prepare. If any of you could do it over again, what would be the best thing to prepare?

Debbie Chatzky Once you have prepared you are ready. There are things you can’t control and they may feel uncomfor ... Read more

Debbie Chatzky Once you have prepared you are ready. There are things you can’t control and they may feel uncomfortable. Just know it passes. Remind yourself mentally at the moment of discomfort soon the breathing tube will come out, soon the chest tubes will come out etc just keep visualizing one step at a time and you will get through it! Best wishes for a good surgery and easy recovery.

Helen Daw I would tell myself not to worry because it is not that bad. I know it is easier said than done, but ... Read more

Helen Daw I would tell myself not to worry because it is not that bad. I know it is easier said than done, but that is what I would do. Good luck!

Marie Myers I agree with Helen. I worried a lot, and the whole thing was not as bad as my mind had it made out to ... Read more

Marie Myers I agree with Helen. I worried a lot, and the whole thing was not as bad as my mind had it made out to be.

Susan Lynn I wouldn't worry, as Helen and Marie advised, and I would also write down the names of all the medic ... Read more

Susan Lynn I wouldn't worry, as Helen and Marie advised, and I would also write down the names of all the medical professionals who care for you. I attached a letter to the survey I received from the hospital and I remembered most, but not all of the names of those awesome caregivers.

Kathy Blank Stay positive and delegate to your loved ones! I was reassured when my family called everyone to let ... Read more

Kathy Blank Stay positive and delegate to your loved ones! I was reassured when my family called everyone to let them know my surgery was a success and I just focused on healing and staying positive. Surround yourself with things that make you happy and calm! We will all be rooting for you Allyson!

Kelly Stoll If you don't get everything done, remember it will be there when you get back. There is no point stre ... Read more

Kelly Stoll If you don't get everything done, remember it will be there when you get back. There is no point stressing about trying to rush and finish your to-do list. Instead just appreciate the time you have, take deep breaths, and do something you enjoy!

Lan Bui I would have exercise much harder and be in the very best shape of my life before surgery. My recover ... Read more

Lan Bui I would have exercise much harder and be in the very best shape of my life before surgery. My recovery would have been even greater :) I hope surgery goes well and a speedy recovery.

Allyson Kuechmann Thank you all for your great comments. It means a lot.

Rita Savelis It will happen with or without you. There is a lot you can't control, so you just have to let go. And ... Read more

Rita Savelis It will happen with or without you. There is a lot you can't control, so you just have to let go. And take it one moment, one day at a time. You don't have to do anything but rest and be for the weeks following surgery. Everything can wait.

Rose Madura I would read a goiid book, relax and try not to worry. I know, easier said than done. Please keep u ... Read more

Rose Madura I would read a goiid book, relax and try not to worry. I know, easier said than done. Please keep us posted.

Allyson Kuechmann Thank you!

Allyson Kuechmannposted a journal

2650 days ago

Sigh. Today was my initially scheduled surgery date. It will be on June 22nd. More time to prepare, fix dental issues, and worry.

Vivien Appleby Don’t worry. You are prepared. Do the things you have to do. 22nd is not far away. Be busy. You’l ... Read more

Vivien Appleby Don’t worry. You are prepared. Do the things you have to do. 22nd is not far away. Be busy. You’ll be fine.

Judy Shaw Allyson, I remember you saying your surgery was postponed. Prayers are with you today and in the futu ... Read more

Judy Shaw Allyson, I remember you saying your surgery was postponed. Prayers are with you today and in the future.

Kelly Stoll Agreed. Deep breaths and take the time to prepare. It will pass faster than it seems.

Jean Hochevar I am waiting for a second opinion and the wait is hard so I can't imagine when I am waiting for surge ... Read more

Jean Hochevar I am waiting for a second opinion and the wait is hard so I can't imagine when I am waiting for surgery! Stay busy!

Don Faust It seems like it takes forever to feel better, your mind will be your biggest obstacle, or at least ... Read more

Don Faust It seems like it takes forever to feel better, your mind will be your biggest obstacle, or at least it was for me. if you don't have one get a blood pressure cup, you will need to record your pressure for the first few weeks. And I got a activity tracker you can sort of keep records of where you are now so you can have a baseline of how your recovery is going. It also will give you fitness goals walking is the best medicine for the heart.

Nikki Escue Allyson, try not to worry. Instead, go get a pedicure. Not only so your feet and toes look nice in ... Read more

Nikki Escue Allyson, try not to worry. Instead, go get a pedicure. Not only so your feet and toes look nice in the hospital but so they still look nice when you come home. You might not feel like, or be able to go, for a while after surgery. The same goes for getting your hair done. Both are things I wanted to do but didn't get around to doing, and wished I had.
In the hospital, they are always looking at your feet, watching for swelling, checking your pulse, etc.
If you don't go for these reasons, at least it will help you relax for a little while and take your mind off the wait😉 God Bless 🙏🏻

Allyson Kuechmann Thank you for your support and encouragement! You guys are great!

Allyson Kuechmannposted a journal

2655 days ago

Kelly Stoll, Lisa McLaughlin reacted to this

The surgery has been postponed until June 22nd. I have a major dental issue going on! It seems that when 2 root canals that were done over 20 years ago......a ...Read more

The surgery has been postponed until June 22nd. I have a major dental issue going on! It seems that when 2 root canals that were done over 20 years ago......a root was missed......on TWO teeth!!! So I have to get them "retreated". Phase 1 of the pretreatment process is done. Phase 2 will be done next week. Met with the surgeon yesterday. He is really nice. He discussed valve options with me. We chose a cow valve as opposed to a mechanical valve. He also said my aorta is "dilated"......and he may need to support it with a cloth tube so it doesn't get larger. Not sure what this means, but i will have to do some research. Thank you for following along on my journey!

Judy Shaw Good that you found it out now than after surgery. Best wishes on your journey.

Allyson Kuechmann Thank you Judy!

Rose Madura Hi Allyson. You may have a small aneurysm. They can fix if with a dacron sleeve. I'm sorry about y ... Read more

Rose Madura Hi Allyson. You may have a small aneurysm. They can fix if with a dacron sleeve. I'm sorry about your dental issues. I guess glad to get it taken care of before surgery. Best wishes and keep us posted.

Allyson Kuechmann Thank you Rose!

Bonnie Stone-Hope It is disappointing when your surgery is delayed, especially for dental issues. But best to get it d ... Read more

Bonnie Stone-Hope It is disappointing when your surgery is delayed, especially for dental issues. But best to get it done prior to your procedure.
Wishing you an easy surgery and recovery.

Allyson Kuechmann Thank you!

Allyson Kuechmannposted a journal

2670 days ago

Kim Sable, Sherri Anderson and 5 others reacted to this

Really apprehensive about how my world will drastically change in a few short weeks! I can't wait to find out how sick my heart really is and to feel better. ...Read more

Really apprehensive about how my world will drastically change in a few short weeks! I can't wait to find out how sick my heart really is and to feel better.

Judy Shaw I know how you feel Allyson. I am feeling the same apprehension. I go for CTA tomorrow afternoon. Bes ... Read more

Judy Shaw I know how you feel Allyson. I am feeling the same apprehension. I go for CTA tomorrow afternoon. Best of luck to you.

Anna Jones I also know how you feel. My surgery is scheduled for June 5. I have been counting down the days wi ... Read more

Anna Jones I also know how you feel. My surgery is scheduled for June 5. I have been counting down the days with dread. Sending best wishes for an easy surgery and gentle recovery.

Civita Fahey Allyson, your life will only change for the better.. I had severe stenosis last year and had my valve ... Read more

Civita Fahey Allyson, your life will only change for the better.. I had severe stenosis last year and had my valve replaced in April 2017( cow valve) . I feel so much better now and am back to what I was doing prior to the surgery.. its a scary process and the unknown is the worst part. But, they are so skilled in this procedure, it will all turn out ok.. I'd be happy to answer any questions.. best to you.

Allyson Kuechmann Thank you everyone!

Debbie Chatzky Same feelings. Counting down the days - May 31st. Best wishes for an easy surgery and a gentle recove ... Read more

Debbie Chatzky Same feelings. Counting down the days - May 31st. Best wishes for an easy surgery and a gentle recovery.

Barbara Wood What Civita said:). You will feel better! Best wishes Allyson!

Allyson Kuechmann Thank you!

Allyson Kuechmann If you have a cavity.....do you need to get it fixed before surgery ?

Judy Shaw That is one of the things the surgeon told me. Any dental work I needed I need to do it now before su ... Read more

Judy Shaw That is one of the things the surgeon told me. Any dental work I needed I need to do it now before surgery.

Allyson Kuechmann Good to know.

Kelly Stoll Allyson, I had to have my dentist sign off before I could have surgery. Consider planning ahead if th ... Read more

Kelly Stoll Allyson, I had to have my dentist sign off before I could have surgery. Consider planning ahead if this is the case for you also. It was also recommended I get all shots updated, etc. at least a few weeks prior to surgery.

Allyson Kuechmann I didn't know that!

Susan Killian I also had to have dental clearance prior to surgery

Dan Poppe No worries Allyson. Wherever you are having this done, you will have doctors and a hospital that spe ... Read more

Dan Poppe No worries Allyson. Wherever you are having this done, you will have doctors and a hospital that specialize in this type of surgery - they will take great care of you. A plug for Adam - read his book! :) It really took the mystery out of everything and helped me through the entire process.

Melissa Houser Prayers for peace about the procedure, a successful surgery, and speedy recovery. I had my On-X valv ... Read more

Melissa Houser Prayers for peace about the procedure, a successful surgery, and speedy recovery. I had my On-X valve aortic valve placed almost one year ago (May 23, 2017). I have recovered well and am doing great! I happened to look up the facility where you are having your surgery, and it looks like you will be in good hands. Take care!

Wanda Mroz I had a valve fix almost 3 years ago! I know all the feelings you have right now. I also have a fri ... Read more

Wanda Mroz I had a valve fix almost 3 years ago! I know all the feelings you have right now. I also have a friend who just had an aortic valve replaced about a month ago. He says he’s never felt better! The first few weeks may be rough but you can get thru it... you will get thru it!

About the cavity? I recommend filling it before. You want your teeth in the best shape. I could not have any dental work or cleaning for six months after surgery so it’s recommended that you get things taken care of before.

You will do just fine. Prayers and good thoughts for a smooth surgery and speedy recovery. 💞🙏🏻

Steven Shuman I am having my AVR surgery next Monday, May 21st. at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, CA ... Read more

Steven Shuman I am having my AVR surgery next Monday, May 21st. at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, CA. Met with surgeon last week, have seen the numerous related AVR videos on youtube and have read the many postings on this blog. . I have done my research.. Now it is a GO !! Allyson.. only success ..

Sherri Anderson Hi Allyson, my surgery is June 5th and I too am wondering about how much better I will feel! Along wi ... Read more

Sherri Anderson Hi Allyson, my surgery is June 5th and I too am wondering about how much better I will feel! Along with a lot of other things, nerves and the unknown. Trying to stay positive. You are in my thought and prayers. Wishing you the best outcome and I can’t wait to hear more post op!

Allyson Kuechmann Thank you all for your responses! What a great support system! It really helps my anxiety level to ... Read more

Allyson Kuechmann Thank you all for your responses! What a great support system! It really helps my anxiety level to read your comments.