Betsey's Journal

I know we all have had different experiences with recovering from OHS. Sometimes reading what others have gone through is heart wrenching! For those of you facing surgery, I wanted to let them know everyone is different. At 12 weeks I sometimes forget I even had surgery! And I certainly have more energy now that the valve is fixed. So, hang in there if your feeling anxious about an upcoming surgery, the healing side is not too bad! I wish everyone a Happy, HEALTHY New Year!!!

I can't believe the differance a week and 1/2 has made in my progress since my last journal entry! Someone said on the group that we should judge our progress by the week not the days. Such great advice! Last entry I was pretty emotional. I remember having a good cry that day. It was good to get it out! Lot's of emotions before and after OHS. Met with my surgeon, Dr. Brewster on Monday. He gave me an A+...I gave him an A+++. Not only is he a gifted surgeon, but a down to earth, wonderful person! I feel that I have turned the corner, little pain in my sternum, but nothing Tylenol can't handle. I'm walking 2+ miles a day, eating well and finally sleeping on my side!!! I know I still have a way to go and there will be ups and downs. But right now my heart is FULL of gratitude and happiness knowing that I've made it through and I'm going to be good! My "broken" heart is fixed!!!

Week three post op tomorrow. The whole thing has been quite a journey so far. Life changing for sure. Yesterday I cried for the first time since my diagnosis in August. I'm not one to cry easily, but the tears just flowed with so many emotions. Feeling sorry for myself, scared for my future and at the same time proud of what I've been thru, the amazing medical team that fixed me and blown away by the love and support from my wonderful family and friends. I have read about cardiac depression, I'm sure that's part of it. But I really think it was just a much needed release of emotions that has been building since August. I really do feel better now. In reading post's on this amazing group of heart sisters and brothers, I consider myself one of the lucky ones. Those of you that have been dealing with heart issues from birth, young men and women my daughters ages with small children having OHS, sometimes for the 2nd or 3rd time. You amaze me with your strength and resolve! I know this is just a start of a lifetime journey, but I will not let it define who I am. I do have this nice scar to remind me where I've been and I will wear it proudly!!!

Best of luck Matt Brill on your surgery tomorrow. I'm 16 day's post op, and it's not as bad as I had imagined at all. You will be on the healing side tomorrow! Trust in your medical team and nurses. They are angels...really!

Today is day 11 post op from a Mitral Valve repair! They replaced 3 sets of the chords with artificial chords to stop a severe leak. Two of the chords had ruptured and one had stretched so it was worth replacing. I feel I'm doing really well. Pain is manageable with Tylenol and I'm out walking!!! Sleeping at night is getting better too I'm in my bed now, no more recliner! So glad to be on the other side of this. Just met with my cardiologist this afternoon. It seems he can still hear a slight murmur, which he said is common and ordered an echo to locate the source. I can't help but feel discouraged and a little nervous. Has anyone else experienced this?

Wow! It's crazy to see my name on the upcoming surgeries!!! With less than 5 days to go, I'm feeling unusually calm, I pray this feeling lasts! I think it's called acceptance. While I'm feeling ok with what's coming my way, I have noticed my family is getting a little more nervous! I know this journey is not only mine, but my loved ones too. Looking forward to starting the healing process and having a "great" new scar to show where I've been! Thanks to everyone on this site for sharing your heart stories...