Susan Lynn
Awesome!! Woo hoo!
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Cathy's Posts
Diagnosis: Mitral Regurgitation
Member Since: September 8, 2018
Member Since: September 8, 2018
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Cathy Loughlin posted a photo
7 years ago (December 28, 2018)
👍
Phyllis Petersen, Charles Hamel and
reacted to this
Jill McDonald
Looks great! I am way behind you but received a fit bit for Christmas. Step goals!
Rob Sparling
BTW, the Fitbit seems to understand altitude but *not* elevators. Don't give me credit for the "floors" climbed. It isn't accurate. But I am glad I got one. Besides the tracking, it helps me keep an eye on my resting pulse. It seems to overstate my pulse when active by... Read more.
Cathy Loughlin posted an update
7 years ago (December 24, 2018)
Question - is it necessary or helpful to have a shower chair at home after my OHS? Thanks!
I didn't have one, but usually had a family member stay close as I showering. I have heard of others getting a simple plastic lawn chair and keeping that in the shower for a while. Thinking of you and wishes for an easeful recovery.
I found it very helpful, as I was exhausted for a week or so.
I found it helpful.
I bought one for $5 at a yard sale. I used it a few times, and was grateful for it. I could have done without it. Showering the first few weeks was very tiring. Now it's in the garage as an all-purpose seat.
Yes definately helpful. I used an old folding chair with a towel on it.
Thanks so much! Very helpful info!
Definitely.
Ditto to the above. Showing in that first 1-2 weeks was exhausting and having a seat was key for me. In fact, it was a milestone of mine to actually shower without sitting down or needing help. Crazy as it may sound.
I had one in the bathroom. I didn't need it in the shower, but like everyone said, I was tired when I got out. Stay away from long hot showers - I found out that they can drop your blood pressure. ❤💚
Just to balance out the feedback above, I never used one... Relative to my hip replacement surgery where I needed one and was a fall risk, the OHS recovery and showering was simple and easy. But do what makes yourself most comfortable and keeps you safe!
I didn't need one
I didn't need one either.
Cathy Loughlin posted an update
7 years ago (December 20, 2018)
I am 3 weeks away from my mitral valve repair/replacement. I have gone through the gamut of emotions the last few months, from shock and disbelief right through to extreme anxiety. Now I'm more than ready to head in and get this done and begin my journey of recovery! I'm... Read more.
Cathy - all normal emotions, but you're definitely in the right state of mind to move forward. Waiting is the worst part. You'll be celebrating your recovery anniversaries with the rest of us before you know it! All the best!
You got this Cathy! Those of us that have done it, felt exactly as you do now! Recliner or wedge pillow at home is a huge help for your sternum.
I found sleeping was the hardest part once you get home. Everybody is different. I slept in a recliner for the first 2 weeks. Take your pain meds regularly. Once I got off the prescribed pain meds, I took Advil PM before bed for a few nights. You also need... Read more.
Thanks so much everyone! I think I'll be ready!!
Cathy, Dan captured it. We all made the transformation you've now experienced. Now it is time! The Wall of Worry is behind you and recovery is the next leg of the journey that yours to navigate. The surgery is a moment in time where they carry you!
Pack light. Take... Read more.
I came home with about 7 lbs of extra fluid weight & nothing fit, so I'd recommend having some comfy drawstring pants handy...it took me about 2 weeks to get back to my normal weight. Best wishes Cathy!
Cathy.......let's get this surgery behind us so we can enjoy life to the fullest! I am 5 days behind you in the waiting room! Let's Do It! You will be fine...keep me posted!
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