Andrew's Journal

Daniel Salzer  Andy - this is such an incredible video and such a gift to heart warriors throughout the world.  I knew the video was coming but I was completely blown away by the professional production in all aspects - the videography, the narration, the interviews. You share your journey in such a beautiful, emotional, and powerful way.  Putting so much time and energy into making this video is a testament to your strong commitment to help others – a virtue many of us have appreciated for a long time.  I was exactly one month behind you in having the Ross Procedure from Dr. Burke at UW and you were so generous in helping me prepare for the surgery with messages on heartvalvesurgery.com, text messages, and live phone conversation.  And the support continued after surgery as I rode through some similar a-fib episodes.  Thank you for all that you do in sharing and caring for others – you are a truly remarkable heart warrior.  Your Ross Brother Dan.

Patricia Miller  Andrew- WOW! I just watched your video in entirety.   So well done.  An accurate testimony that none of this is easy, but heart valve patients can get through this.  You have a beautiful family.  Thank you for all the time you put into this and for sharing your story.   Amazing.

Allen Carkner  Wow,
Andy. 
This is amazing and I see you on here, connecting with people and letting them know it’s going to be alright and they’re not alone. I remember connecting with you even just a few times before my surgery and it made a difference knowing there are other people that have gone through this, that are ok and thriving. This story is not unlike my own, I didn’t get to play football or be a wrestler like my dad and twin brother. I played some sports but I always had a little anxiety surrounding my heart that I know most people can’t exactly understand. Every year that I’d had an echo I would hear the conversation between my dad and cardiologist, asking just how hard could I push myself, I always asked a million questions, often they didn’t have an answer that left me feeling satisfied, even as a middle schooler. I would have extra anxiety in the time before and after my cardiology appointments because I “knew too much”. I knew about TAVR valves when I was a little kid. I had a PE teacher once tell me that I had a small heart and that’s why I wasn’t doing the same weightlifting as the other students my age. I knew this wasn’t the case but I was really the person as a high schooler that had to limit myself and communicate my limitations to coaches and or teachers. It wasn’t always easy. Your progression into symptomatic severe aortic stenosis also feels very similar to mine. It never really felt like it was my heart, I just didn’t feel “right” I guess. My anxiety was just stranger than usual and I found myself not exercising as much as I’d wanted to. Your surgery memories so closely match mine it’s remarkable. I’m grateful for people like you Andy for advocating for the Ross procedure, being honest about it, trying to be informative with out making the decision for others of the valve choice that is right for them. I want more people to know about the Ross procedure because I feel so strongly about it but I also want to strive to provide support for others like us while attempting to be less pushy towards the Ross procedure. You’re a great resource for those that feel like they are different for being born with a different valve than everyone else.
Thanks Andy for listening.

Daneen Douglas  My husband and I watched this evening.  I think this really shows the perspective of the patient, of course, as well as the spouse.  We both teared up in parts, and we really found your heart journey so hopeful and inspiring! Thank you for sharing in such a special way. I feel more comfortable going into my surgery in less than 3 weeks from now. This is definitely your calling!

Marie-Ange Jacques   I like the part where Ady' wife pointed out that it takes more than 3 months to recover. I am in my 6 month post open heart valve surgery and there are days I feel so out of energy I feel the palpitations and just want to stay in bed. I feel that no one understands but thank you Andy and your wife for understanding.
I do not feel alone now.I feel that it's okay as all this is part of recovery 🙏🙏

Lilly Black  This video is a great example of how truly helpful this website is for us. We learn, we share, we support each other! Priceless!

Anna Ma  I just watched it, cried many times. Thank you for making this video! Great job Andy! You have a beautiful family!

Pamela Gregory  What a wonderful Video Andy!!! I just watched and also cried as it made me recall many things about this experience. Excellent job

Sue Maize  Way to go Andy! What a labour of love and a gift for all of us and those yet to join this community. Thank you.

Kimberly Eisenhut  Boy was that just amazing! I am now crying like a baby thank you! You have such a beautiful wife and support system, but more importantly, you have a beautiful heart Andrew. Thank you so much for making this video and for your amazing attitude, drive and love for all of us going through this journey together

Susan Lynn  Beautifully done! I think we all cried with your wife at the end! I don't know if we can adequately measure the value in hearing, seeing, or reading about someone's direct experience with valve surgery. I followed this site for many months before I joined, but reading everyone's stories made me feel confident I could get through valve surgery, too!
Glad you're using your story to inspire others through your video, participation on this site, and with your personal outreach. It makes a world of difference to those future heart warriors in the waiting room! All the best to you!!

Valerie Allen  Great video, Andy. You and your wife are a wonderful couple. Your support for one another shines through. And we all benefit from your honesty, your initiative and your ability to communicate your journey, overlapping with so many of ours.

Deena Z  So beautifully done, Andy!!!  And spot on. It is incredibly lonely knowing your heart “ is not right”, but having no idea when and how it will “become
right.”  - Or even if it can. — Your video doc is inspiring as well as educational to all of us.  Thanks for caring. 

Timothy Andre  Andy, I never anticipated that this website would build such strong friendships and in turn support other heart warriors. I am so greatful for our friendship and I thank you for supporting me even though my surgery was two months before you. God made it possible for us to meet and spend time together last summer and I am grateful for that. Our shared experience of OHS with the Ross Procedure will keep us connected as brothers forever. Thank you so much for making this video and passing on the support to many many more heart warriors by sharing your story. God bless you my friend 🙏🏽❤️‍🩹

Sue Maize  Hi Timothy! I’m glad you weighed in here—yours was one of the first journals I read when I began looking for guidance and others’ experience with the Ross. I’ve wanted to thank you ever since, though I left you a message on your post about the Camino. I can’t tell you how deeply this impacted me—it was an absolute God moment! I pray you are continuing to do well! 🥰🙏🏻

Grace Mason   Loved your video Andy❤️
It is a wonderful description of the process from the pre surgery prep to the uncomfortable bumps in the car post surgery, as well as, the emotional journey for those close to it.
Your story helped me before my own and this will continue to be a great resource to others moving towards a similar surgery. Awesome job!

Marie-Ange Jacques   Very nice,Andy..Nobody understand until they been through that same road.
My recovery has not been easy but I thank God for never leaving me.

Klara Čičić  Wooow! Hoodie is amazing. I would't mind having one lust like that myself! Can't wait for the documentary! 

Andrew Dial  Thanks! I may be having more made at some point, keep in touch :) Documentary is so close! Just a couple more weeks :)

Deena Z  Love the hoodie, Andrew!  Cool- re: doc. 
That will be a first for HVS.com.  You’re advancing how we communicate, thxs!😎❤️👍🏻

Andrew Dial  Thank you all :) I will DEF keep you updated on the video. I appreciate all the kind words, and hope all of you heart warriors are doing well and healthy 

Allen Carkner  March 2023 Ross procedure. Had a little bit of suture opening in the bottom of the sternal scar as well as one of the chest tube wounds opened up a bit after the sutures were removed. Some oozing that was treated with antibiotics out of the lower part of the sternal incision as well. You can see bumps from the wires at the top.

Sue Maize  Two warriors who have been in the trenches and come out the other side! Wear your scars proudly boys! I’m sure every time you look at it you’ll be reminded of the incredible miracle of the life you get to live! So happy for you both! ❤️‍🩹🙌🏻

Sue Lee  These both look terrific. Allen, you’re well on the path to Andrew’s result. At one point Adam recommended silicone gel which is something I’ve encouraged my heart warrior son to try. And a silicone sheet if he’s in the sun 

Allen Carkner  Andrew, did you have two chest tubes? They had three in for me. That’s probably the worst part of OHS to be honest.

Daneen Douglas  Wow!  That is amazing! I would like a tiny version of mine that I will be getting in May…aortic root, valve and aorta.  Too cool!

Deena Z  Love it, Andrew! Nice reminder to yourself (and others:).
BTW- did you see Kyle's photo on HVS. He is next for surgery and is holding up a huge prize fish that he caught. Of course, thought of you instantly.

Andrew Dial  Deena, I just scrolled back the last 2 weeks worth of posts and I didn’t see his post!! Haha a fellow fisherman, is a friend of mine :)

Grace Mason   Very cool Andrew. Great choice and message, but it looks painful so close to armpit!??
I have been wondering about this and have a question for you about tattoos, post heart valve surgery. Do you need to premedicate before a session? I can only find info online that it is not suggested post surgery. Did your cardiologist have an opinion?
I'm thinking as long as a reputable tattoo artist it wouldn't introduce bacteria like a teeth cleaning for instance.

Andrew Dial  Grace, I was told I did not need any pre-meds prior to a tattoo! 

I have done a lot of research as well on Facebook pages for aortic stenosis, and Ross procedure etc. and I found that a lot of people said the same thing, that pre meds were not necessary.

Grace Mason   That is good to know! Thanks for the info Andrew. Looking forward to seeing the progress on your lighthouse 👍🏼❤️

Craig Ostfeld  Hi Andrew. Congratulations!  I caught a salmon while bobbing around off of SF years ago.  What a thrill! What kind of boats do you build?  I've got a Mumby cat in S, Africa I'm dying (Whoops, wrong word) to get back to.

Andrew Dial  Craig, very cool u like to fish! I built aluminum fishing jet boats for years and now I build aluminum work boats. 

Sue Lee  Amazing catch Andy. It can’t have been easy reeling it in. Good sign that you are feeling fit and strong 

Ana Brusso  Wow Andy, you caught a giant fish. What is it? Glad you are enjoying life, I am too. Blessings 🙏❤️

Richard Munson  My little store bought salmon slices seems insignificant. I used to enjoy fishing a few years back but cleaning them was ugly. Catch and release became  more fun. 

Ana Brusso  I’m lifting you up in prayer for God’s blessings and comfort come to you and heal you dear Andy. 🙏❤️

Rita Savelis  So glad you could get off the  betablockers and have friends checking in with you. Take care Andrew.

Grace Mason   I'm glad to hear you have some good things happening, no more beta blocker! Sometimes meds can increase your anxiety and/or depression, as a side effect. I know they bothered me when I took them for a while. I am especially glad you have people who can relate and support you
And thanks for sharing this with us, as it is a common part of OHS recovery. It will help normalize it for others who are also having similar feelings.

Richard Munson  Best of luck dealing with your issues. Heart surgery takes a toll in many ways and you will overcome them. You have age on your side. Whenever i have salmon i think of you for some strange reason. Triggers something in my brain no doubt. 

Daniel Salzer  Getting off the beta blocker is huge - that was a major milestone for me and it will make a big difference in any aerobic exercise you do (which is great for helping with anxiety and depression).  Get outside as much as you can - exercising, fishing, boating, hiking.  Hang in there Bro!

karsten madsen  Buddy you're doing so many great things to help yourself getting back on top! the biggest first step and you're miles passed is asking for help and saying you're not okay. Our mind can be our biggest support and what tears us down most. But creating positive narratives  and not allowing negative thoughts to linger. Of course easier said then done... But Meditation, getting in nature like you do, enjoying your family and shutting off social sites for periods of time. No one knows what tomorrow will bring and at some point its not worth asking the universe or trying to speculate as it always goes unanswered. Follow the things that make you happy take on hard challenges that scare you . And most importantly its okay to not be okay sometimes. Its just about bring kind to yourself taking steps to getting back to your new normal. And I think you're well on your way! :) 

Susan Lynn  Andrew - Glad you're doing well! We all get by with a little help from our (HVS) friends. 😁 Continued good wishes coming your way.

Civita Fahey  Glad to hear you're doing better.. that low dose anti depressant helps alot.  This is a crazy world we live in and having had open heart surgery just adds to it all.. I feel if we need some help, accept it. one day you can try to go off and see how it goes. A small dose doesnt hurt.. best  to you

Klara Čičić  That is so great, Andrew! I am so happy you are on a path to get better. I feel you. Ms. Angela Meletiadis from this site also helped me through mentally and physically difficult part of my post-surgery journey. I am so grateful. This site is just amazing and so helpful. 

Deena Z  Andrew/Andy, really happy that you found some "fixes" for the ups-and-downs that we have in life. I don't know if you realize how much your genuineness, story telling, fishing adventures and other soulful stuff that you do lifts all of us up. Will include you in my prayer tonight. ---Though my HVS Godmom Ana does it the best.

Andrew Dial  Thank you EVERYONE for all of your kind words and blessings. I am grateful for each and every one of you. The support you all provide makes me speechless. And I am glad I can provide some inspiration and support to others as well.

Marie Myers  I would speak first to my primary care doc and discuss your symptoms.  Sometimes medication is helpful, Talk therapy is often very effective  in treating these often subtle, nagging feelings. Lastly, physical exercise and getting outside can do a body good. I know i feel better after playing pickleball and being with people.  Hope that helps!  ( I also do NOT watch the news…)

Rose Madura  Andy, it's good that you reached out. I'm very fortunate that I did not suffer from any mental health or depression issues but so concur with Marie. I will be praying for you.

Rita Savelis  Keep talking about it. Tell your cardiologist or doctor and get a referral to a therapist. After what you have been through physically, you also have to deal with the emotional release. At least 60% of those who have heart surgery experience some form of depression but a lot of it is hidden. You may need to take medication. I fell into a depression about 5 months after OHS. It was hard. I was going through the motions but not functioning well. Therapy helped me. Also when I stopped betablockers (which slow some people down) I felt much better. As I said earlier, speaking to your cardiologist is 
a good idea. I'm sorry that you are going through this. It's hard. Take care. Keep expressing how you feel.

Allen Carkner  When I was referred to surgery I immediately decided it might be a good idea to talk to a therapist a few times before surgery and I have spoken with them a bit after surgery when I'm having a hard time. My therapist has been a helpful outlet when I'm overwhelmed with trying to balance work stress, planning a wedding, and all while trying hard to improve my health and fitness habits. 

Civita Fahey  Sorry I'm late to the game. I didnt have depression, but alot of anxiety. I have never been an anxious person but after my surgery my anxiety was really bad. I was put on a low dose anxiety med and its been working fine. I did go off for a bit just to see but it came back so I decided to stay on. hope this helps. 

Kathy Ozio  I've dealt with depression pretty much my entire life. After the surgery I was very aware that it could hit me. It did, but I knew it was part of it.I was able to recognize it and understand it, and I've been able to pray and keep it under control.  It will pass. If you get where you can't handle it, you need to talk to your doctor. I'll be praying for you that it passes quickly! 🙏

Klara Čičić  Yes Daniel, me, too! I feel like I know you all. Thanks Andrew for those wise words, sometimes we need this reminder. 

Rose Madura  Oh my! You guys could be brothers for real! This is a beautiful thing. I'm happy for you both. You guys definitely have a kindred spirit. Hope you enjoyed your visit.

Deena Z  wow, you do truly look like biological brothers!!   And a cross=country met-up that has been in the plans for over two years!!  WTG you guys!! So why Southern Oregon and not Washington state for the fishing??

PS  Love the zipper club sweatshirt.  Do any strangers come up to you to say they know what they means and that they have been there?  Curious?!

Adam Pick  That picture... Those smiling faces... Those connected spirits... All I can say is... Downright... Absolute... Joy... Inspiration... Fun... And, or course... Brotherly love!!!! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for sharing your time together with all of us!!!

Deena Z  I remember when you first two met online and were talking about hanging-out and fishing together after your surgery. How cool (and sincere) that you both made it happen. #HVS.Ross.Brothers.Forever

Julie Gill  I love the way you think, Andrew.  As a veteran of 3 open heart surgeries, numerous pacemaker implants and most recently mitral and tricuspid valve annuloplasties, I totally agree!  We certainly belong to a very exclusive club.  As my husband says, “your head could catch on fire and you still wouldn’t die!” 😉

Deena Z  So true, wear with pride and remember your courage, faith and those that saved and took care of you. (BTW- nice straight cut too.)

Andrew Dial  Thank you everyone. I appreciate all your kind words! The Scar is part of us.. I would tell anyone to wear it Proudly! 

Deena Z  This is too funny.  Every part of her body except face is covered!  Says a lot that she choose very happy colors and look at that smile.  #happychild

Ana Brusso  🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🗽🗽🗽🗽🗽🗽🗽🎉🎊🦅🦅🦅BLESSED IS A COUNTRY THAT HAS GOD!  LIKE OURS, AMEN 🙏❤️✝️

Deena Z  Hi and happy 4th to theee Andrew Dial, one of our fabulous heart warriors! He keeps us feeling young.

Deena Z   Andrew, you are modernizing the way we educate and help each other.  (Along with Adam of course:) Cool!  

Deena Z  Andrew, what a beautiful wife. Actually couple. You both have awesome smiles. And she is a fisherwomen too!

Robert Miller  Enjoy that fish... Your surgery was just 1 year ago? I see like no scar. Then again, mine disappeared quickly after the first surgery but now some half a year later I can still clearly see the scar from my second surgery. Not that I care but I am still curious. 

Deena Z  Really Awesome, Andrew, David and Karsten. Using technology to reach out with a human touch and share lots of info. It's invaluable. Love it!

Karsten, we are all thinking of you. If all of us older folks can get through this, you sure can.

Susan Lynn  Great idea! There's no substitute for first-hand advice from someone who's been in the same boat!

Deena Z  Andrew, bet it is hard to believe that an entire year has gone by, yet  we all have some "long" moments too.   Post surgery there are such vivid visual memories, but also an abundance of feelings that still surface. --- that is, the waiting, the arriving at the hospital, being wheeled into the surgery and then waking up.  But best of all,  is the feeling of being cured!

Andrew Dial  Deena you are absolutely right. Lots of emotion still at even 1 year post-op! The support from others is such a huge help

Daniel Salzer  Andy - you were almost exactly 1 month ahead of me in receiving Ross Surgery with Dr. Christopher Burke at the University of Washington Heart Institute.  I discovered you here on HeartValveSurgery.com and it was so helpful to connect with you through messages and live over the phone.  Learning your story, experience, and getting small and big tips for prep, logistics, and physical and mental health was super helpful at putting me at ease and at peace with my surgery treatment decision.