Bob's Journal

AVR on 28 April at Virginia Hospital Center. In CCU for about 8 hours and discharged on May 1st. Lots (and lots) of walking afterwards but a little concerned about chest muscles. So, on advice of cardiologist, enrolled in rehab. 14 sessions at cardiac rehab -- really helped, more psychologically than physically. After a month, was basically told I really didn't need any more "rehab." Had my annual physical exam today and was given another one year warranty. Feeling pretty much back to normal. Am very grateful to surgeon, doctors, and most especially cardiac care nurses at Virginia Hospital Center for phenomenal care I received while there. And kudos to Cardio Pulmonary Rehab staff at VHC as well. A truly world class medical center!

Recovery is progressing well. I am out walking every day. Luckily, we are having some incredibly nice weather here in No Virginia. My wound seems to be healing up nicely and vital signs are good. The only challenge has been sleeping -- I am grabbing 2 or 3 hours at a time but chest seems to stiffen up at night. But still getting 7 or 8 hours total and the chest seems to loosen up quickly after getting out of bed. And all of a sudden, I developed a bit of an ache in my left shoulder for which I am taking Tylenol. But otherwise, definitely on the mend!

Almost forgot--for those about to undergo surgery, don't watch anything too funny afterwards! I forget exactly what I was watching on TV but I can tell you that heavy duty laughter hurts!

So far, so good. Little pain (except when I cough). No pain meds of any kind for the past 3 days. Wound stiffens up at night and is slightly uncomfortable when I wake up but that quickly clears after getting up. Walked outside yesterday and today--just under a half mile. Appetite is fine. Still using the spirometer every 4 hours or so but lungs are clear, I think. Vital signs are all normal and I have no edema at all. So it looks like I've been pretty fortunate so far. Have my fingers crossed recovery continues as well as it's gone so far!

Bob Bemben -- Surgery yesterday morning for AVR with bio-prosthetic valve. They used a mini-sternotomy so this morning I feel like I was kicked by a small mule! Am sitting up, waiting for breakfast. So far, so good. Thanks to everyone for all the good wishes!