Chris's Journal

Marie Myers  Wonderful news! I am so happy for you that you don’t need another surgery.
Hope you have the best holiday ever!

Chris Smith  That is awesome!! God is good!! Thanks for sharing. Sorry you had to go through so much. Sharing your story really helps!! Thanks Chris. Merry Christmas

Dan Baltazor  EXCELLENT News!!!!! So happy to hear this for you. Great advice too. Merry Christmas to you and your family and ENJOY the Peace you have been given.

Judy S  So glad to hear Chris! I know this has been a terrible burden on you so it’s wonderful to hear that the news is good!

Joey Hardee  Wow, Chris. What a journey. I just went back and read through your posts from before your surgery til now. Amazing. Mind is blown by the mini stroke and heart attack you dealt with. Very happy to see that you are back on track. Will continue praying things keep getting better and better for you. Merry Christmas to you and yours!

Rob Sparling  Chris, great news and proud of your strength. keep showing us the way! We are all stronger anytime one of us finds truth. Keep on keeping on. Press on regardless.

Chris Purvis  I’m out for now. These rythym issues don’t stay away for long. I’ll be seeing my cardiologist very soon.

Judy S  Chris, thank you for trying to share what hard lessons you have learned. I hope your recovery moves quickly with no future issues.

Chris Smith  Hey Chris. Sorry to hear what you are going through. Hope your recovery will be quick and free from any other issues. Thanks for letting us know, and please keep us updated.

Rose Madura  I'm so sorry to hear that you have had these problems! You've given us all good advice. Was there any damage from the heart attack? I will be praying for you. GOD bless you.

Marie Myers  Praying that you recover completely! Any idea what happened back in September that may have triggered this new problem?

Dan Baltazor  WOW!!!!! We are saddened to hear this for you. So hard to fathom another valve replacement so soon. It has to be so hard mentally when you are doing everything right with diet, exercise and lifestyle and still end up here. I had a flu shot and phneumonia shot these past couple months in hopes to keep some of the "crud" at bay. Infection is a big concern and worry for sure.
You're in our prayers and healing thoughts!!!!!!!

Chris Purvis  Thanks everyone for the thoughts and prayers. Well I’m still here...9 days only because of the infection. Should be leaving tomorrow with a pick line and 6 weeks of antibiotics to hopefully fix my valve. Can’t imagine another surgery so soon and even as of today the valve is perfect. Its been an emotional time for sure with lots of unknowns. But I’m walking 5-6 miles a day in the hospital fitness at all levels always makes me happy.

Kirk Bepler  Chris - It's been awhile since I have been on the site as well, sorry to hear about the setback's your experiencing. Hoping you have a fast recovery.....

Debbie Chatzky  So sorry Chris. I saw in an older post that you received a pacemaker. Are you being see by the group that did your surgery. Wishing you a recovery from your set backs!

Joe Tarango  I'm sorry, Chris but I am very happy to see you pulling through all of it. I hope you get good news and your valve heals. I'll keep you in my prayers.

Barbara Wood  Oh I'm so sorry to see this Chris! Sending positive thoughts & prayers for you & your family. Keep us posted please.

Shannon Gray  Oh no! I am so sorry you are going through this. I have been thinking of you after your post a while back. What were you sick with in Sept? Prayers for an easeful recovery and that this is the end of any more concerns.

Civita Fahey  Chris, I'm so sorry to hear about what you are going through. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Keep positive thoughts. Keep us posted.

Adam Pick  Chris, Oh man. So sorry to hear this unfortunate news. Thanks for your post, letting us know what happened, and driving home the point to listen to your body. That must have been incredibly scary. My goodness. Praying for a full recovery Chris! Stay positive!

Debbie Kelly  Hi Chris, I am so sorry you and your precious family are going thru this setback. You sound amazingly calm versus from before you had your valve surgery. I am praying, even, harder for a smooth recovery and for your valve to be healed. Did you doctors let Dr. Lamales know?
Please keep us posted. Keep your faith! Take care, my friend.

  Chris, even though you have gone thru so much, you are still with us and your beautiful family, Praise to a God who has a perfect plan for us whatever it may be. You are young and have been taking care of your body and your body will give you back recovery and good health from here on. Keep the faith. You will recover. We will pray for you and your family. Blessings

Kendal Zinn  Chris... you are absolutely right about listening to your body! After replacing two aortic valves in 18 months ... infection was a player in both. If your appetite isnt normal and you cant ever get warm you better get checked on before its too late!

Robert Osmachenko  How was your bloodwork especially the hematocrit and hemoglobin numbers? Are you on thinners? I had a similar heart event like you and nobody could explain it. Hope you find some answers. Good luck.

Rob Sparling  Chris, wow, man. So shocked and sorry to hear about the stroke and heart attack! Thanks so much for sharing. Best we can do is offer our support and prayer. You are certainly one of the inspiring stories here, keep the momentum and press ahead with a positive outlook. (But maybe no more jump rope, eh?)

Chris Purvis  Thanks everyone for all of your support and prayers! Finally got out 10 days in there was a long long time. So I had an infection back in September and they never found it was released and sent home. Well that infection never went a way and a piece broke off and hit my brain and hit my heart causing both the stroke and heart attack. This infection wouldn’t hurt anyone with a native valve but anyone with bio or mechanical it can be really bad. So I have a picc line in my arm and administer antibiotics every night for 4-6 weeks. I’ve already sent me records to my surgeon Dr. Lamelas just in case but GOD willing I will be sparred the second surgery. I haven’t got a pacemaker yet my rythym seems to be normal after the heart attack which is weird but I’ll take it!

Judy S  Chris, we will all be hoping that the second surgery can be avoided! Thanks for taking the time to share your situation—it is both scary but good to know that there are issues we need to be aware of with non-native valves. Best wishes to you!

Catie B  What an ordeal and what a battle, Chris. I'm sorry you've had to endure all of this and I hope the antibiotics will make a quick end of any remaining infection. Kudos on all the walking. You're a warrior!

Dan Baltazor  Thanks for the update. Glad to hear you are back home and praying that this 4-6 week regimen works.

Shannon Gray  I don’t have a pacemaker but my Dad received one four years ago. It was a quick process... home the next day. He was tired for a while folllowing, but otherwise no other issues. He had already been on warfarin for blood clotting, so that wasn’t a huge change. Hoping all is well for you. Have thought of you often. Let us know if you need anything.

Mike Roskowinski  Hello Chris. I got a pacemaker while in the hospital since I went through heart block twice while I was there. The surgery is really easy and it is only one day. They had me use a sling so that I did not try to lift my arms up high for about 4 weeks. It was sore for some time and it felt weird as the tissue was growing around it but nothing that you cant get used to. I have not had any issues with it since. Sometimes I forget when I go through security that I even have it since you are not supposed to go through it with one. I am not dependent on my pacemaker so security gates will not hurt me it just can cause them to not work for a little bit of time. Since I have not used mine really at all they told me that I can get it removed but since I am used to it and it does not affect my life I decided just to keep it. I workout 5 days a week, play volleyball, and golf. I am very active and it has not changed my lifestyle at all. I would say about 2 months after I was back to 100% with everything. So to sum it all up the first 4 weeks are the worst but after everything is all healed up you will not notice it at all. And hey just think of it as a backup plan :)

Chris Smith  TEE or TTE? TEE is where you are sedated, throat numbed, and an ultra sound probe is passed into your esophagus. TTE is Transthoracic( Ultrasound probe used on your chest. No sedation .

Chris Smith  Hope you're doing ok. TEE is do able. They usually give you some viscous lidocaine, or spray the back of your throat with numbing medication. They will also give you some sedation to tolerate the probe. Are you having A fib issues?

Susan Lynn  Chris - The TEE is easy. Chris Smith described it perfectly. It's a short procedure and over in what seems like one second. Thank heaven for good anesthesia. Good luck!

Chris Purvis  I have an infection but unknown yet might have attacked my valve. Irregular beats, fever, chills and sweats. Sad part is I had to be pro active and just go to the ER today. Cardio asked too many questions without and movement. I had to call back 20 times to show my urgency. Hoping it’s not endocarditis

Chris Purvis  Cardio also said if you get sick you have to be very careful well no one told me that other than for cleanings. I went to urgent care Saturday they know my history checked for flu and strep and sent me packing.

Shannon Gray  Keep us posted, Chris. Hopefully blood cultures were drawn to find out about infection. Thinking of you!

Debbie Kelly  OMG, Chris, I am praying for you. Just remember as I told you last year, keep the faith. I know this must be awfully hard on you and your family.
I am praying for you.

Chris Purvis  Thanks Rob me too man! Debbie so good to hear from you and it looks like your doing amazing supper happy for you!

Dan Baltazor  NO!! So sorry to hear this! It's not too bad of procedure, it's doable. It just depends on how much anesthesia they give you as to how much you're aware of the scope going down. Keep us posted on results.

Wanda Mroz  I just had a TEE a couple of weeks ago to check an ASD and my valves. Sedated... worst part is the throat gargle to numb the throat so it doesn't involuntarily do the gag reflex even though you are sedated. That tastes yucky. It's easy compared to some things.

Jill Mullikin  Fingers crossed you get a speedy answer! When this all started with my son they thought he had endocarditis and sent us to an infectious diseases doctor first. Hopefully the TEE is just precautionary to check on your valve.

Dan Vechiola  2 in 2 months. 1 the day I left the hospital and then baseline echo at 6 weeks post op. Cardiologist said he wanted a fresh one at 6 weeks because a lot of the inflammation is gone by then. Hopefully no more! Next cardiologist appointment is at 1 year post op.

Chris Purvis  That’s awesome man one year is a great comfort. Do you feel like your breathing is different post op? I sometimes feel slightly short of breath but I do CrossFit and stuff and obviously I’m winded the entire time I’m there but I’ve noticed just sitting or lounging around it seems different

Rob Sparling  One in the hospital before discharge and another coming on Tuesday st 6-week marker. On Tuesday, I will also learn more about the frequency thereafter.

Chris Purvis  Thanks Rob. I might make a special trip and try and get one today. I’m at 19 weeks and 2 days so it’s been 127 days since I had mine at day 8.

Dan Vechiola  My breathing has been good but I am not working out intensely yet. I usually do a treadmill hill program level 5 and a bike hill program at level 3 both for 20 mins with each having a 5 minute cool down afterward. The weird thing I notice is my heart rate does not elevate like it used to while exercising. The staff at cardiac rehab said it is because the blood pressure pills I am on (Metoprolol) keeps your heart rate down. I wonder if that is why me and others on here gain a few pounds during the few months in recovery because heart rates don't get into the fat burning zone?? Chris, are you on any blood pressure pills?

Chris Purvis  Yea Dan I’m on that same beta blocker as well as lisinopril. I can get mine up pretty good even on the beta blocker I’ve found if you take it 2-3 hours before it doesn’t keep your rate down as much. I’m back at CrossFit and I’ve worked mine out pretty hard and intense with no problems.

Joey Hardee  Awesome, Chris! I am hoping to get back to a regular workout regimen once I am through surgery. I am dealing with some anxiety about the pending surgery so I REALLY appreciate the inspiration! :-))

Chris Purvis  You will be able to workout after for sure...I was a walking machine at first but back at the gym within a month.

Rob Sparling  Thanks, Chris! From another 'waiting room' attendee! Great to hear you have almost forgotten about it!

Dan Vechiola  Hey Chris! You were very active when I signed on in May. I miss your comments. Sounds like you are doing well!

Chris Purvis  Dan-looks like you have joined the recovery side...that’s awesome man! Based on the pictures it looks like you are doing very well-happy for you man!

Chris Purvis  Rob-love the waiting room attendee comment and that’s how it felt for me. It will be over soon and you will do great!

Mark Wilbur  You didn't say so, but I assume that you are doing very well, Chris! I'm happy for you and your precious family. Remember to keep us updated periodically. As you know, hearing the success stories and the incremental improvements (and some setbacks) help those of us in the "waiting room" to understand what can be expected, as well as the reassurance that we might do as well as you. So, don't forget us as the weeks continue to move quickly along. Best wishes for continued good health.

Sue Tom  Glad you are doing so well! I'm 4 days away for aortic aneurysm surgery 9/17. Trying my best to stay positive!

Richard Buckley  Chris, thank you for writing this piece about anticipation. I'm about 10 hours away from my trip to the OR. Last few days have been the longest.

Chris Purvis  Hey Mark! Doing very very well at 12 weeks. And yes, I will continue to check in as this people on this site got me thru it for sure.

Chris Purvis  Richard/Sue-you both will do great. Waiting is awful so when your time comes embrace it the best you can...and then you wake up and it’s over.

Adam Boyadjis  Good to hear you’re doing well Chris! My wife had to remind me the other day that I’d had surgery. Feeling very fortunate! Anyway congrats on the recovery and SKOL VIKES!

Susan Lynn  It's hard to believe that much time has passed. Thanks for sharing your story and continuing to inspire others. I agree with Diane - love your quote!

Good luck going back to work next Monday!

Diane Maher  Thanks for asking Chris..... I am still feeling amazing considering I have just learned that my surgery has been set for 4 weeks today and review your posts regularly Susan to keep the momentum going❣️
I always enjoy your posts, Chris they bring a smile...300 body squats🤔

Chris Purvis  Diane you will be amazed once that day arrives. The surgery comes and goes and then life just keeps moving...literally it’s like a blip on the radar. I’m not taking anything away from the surgery at all-it’s big but we have a lot of big events during life. They may not directly involve us going under anesthesia but life is full of journeys for sure.

Bonnie Stone-Hope  So glad to hear that you are able to get back to the physical activities that you enjoy. Such a great example for others facing this surgery.

timothy morris  my doctors do not want me doing pull ups or push ups until I hit the three month mark. I walk 5 miles a day currently and am really anxious to get back to running, hiking and playing golf which they will discuss with me at my next appointment in early August. I am day 20.

Dan Vechiola  Way to go Chris! Keep moving forward my man. Back to work will bring normaly back to your life and enhance your recovery. You have been a great follow!

Susan Lynn  I have a mini-t so I know where to look, but you might have to point out the spot since it's almost completely invisible! Someone did some nice work on entry and suturing!

Anna Jones  Hi Chris, it's a process for sure. Sending best wishes. My surgical wounds are healing nicely. I knock wood as I say this. They are itchy.

Catie B  That's a tremendous amount of walking so early, Congrats! So sorry about the Afib and ER visit. Prayers here for that to calm down.

Ron Weaver  It’s amazing that you are walking 5 miles a day already! Sending good thoughts your way about the Afib going away for good.

Chris Purvis  Thanks Catie! Ron the gym prior to this made a big difference...practically lived in it 7 days a week. Rita I might go ahead and post a scar selfie it’s very small anyways.

Thanks all!

Judy S  Sorry to hear this Chris but your accomplishments since surgery are inspiring! Hope things stay under control this time!

LINDA ROBERTS  Did you have afib before surgery or is this afib caused from the trauma of surgery and should eventually go away?

Chris Purvis  Hey Linda-never had A Fib prior to surgery. It’s very very common as a matter of fact I think the stats are higher than published. I have been fortunate with mine in the sense that it hasn’t gone past 120 BPM so I can get it under control pretty quickly and besides a small sweat no symptoms really.

Tim, Chris and Judy thanks for the note and words of encouragement.

Jim Harvey   I had a-fib post-surgery which for the most part did not go away - had the cardioversion once (I highly recommend that!) but I believe each of us is different and our doctors have to figure out what works best in each individual case. And as I mentioned in a previous post, according to experts 95% of all a-fib post valve surgery is temporary.

Anna Jones  That's interesting, Chris. Have you had an echo after the surgery to see if there is any residual regurgitation? Have the cardiologists speculated as to why there is a murmur?

Chris Purvis  I have had an echo and they said it was normal. Did you cardiologist say you didn’t have. Murmur? Or was it even talked about?

Judy S  Hi Chris, here’s a link about murmurs after heart surgery that might be helpful. https://youtu.be/OnAsVyVsjvs

Anna Jones  Chris, I had a repair. My echo shows no regurgitation. There was no mention of a murmur. I watched this video and it says a murmur with a replacement is common. I would ask your cardiologist his thoughts. Sorry you are having a worry. I'm betting all is well. Sending prayers

Chris Purvis  Yep Anna your repair should sound normal since it’s a native valve. They just said that since the tissue valve sits in a stent that it makes natural noises because it’s not native. My echo was good and normal but still didn’t like hearing murmur that’s all.

Marjorie Murphy  Chris
I posted a comment earlier. I had meant it for Casey Chambers mom. Anyway. I have been following all of your journals. I wish you the best. Sounds like your recovery is going very smooth. AND my prayers are with you

Jonathan Bines  It may not be a murmur. It may be a "widely spaced S2 sound" which is normal post-Ross and which sounds similar to a murmur (S3), according to Dr. Stelzer. Worth asking, anyway

Michael Eichhorn  I think I am murmurless Chris. I have noticed that my heartbeat has quieted over the last few weeks. How are the burpee’s coming along?

Kirk Bepler  Chris I also have the tissue valve but it's the mitral valve i, I just had an appt with my GP and he stated that he could not hear my murmur anymore.

Chris Purvis  I hate trying to proof read on an I phone...keep me cool-not keel me cool and I forgot the word time at the bottom. Now I feel complete.

Susan Lynn  Miraculous recovery, Chris! I hope you're able to enjoy your time off before getting back to the grind! Thanks for sharing all sides of heart surgery. It's not all rainbows and unicorns, but it does get better. Life is good!

Judy Shaw  Great to hear your doing better. It's been a week since my surgery. I have all the bruising. I told Jim I didnt want to look cause my first thought was Frankenstein lol. I'm exadurating but it looks awful. Stay cool!

Diane Maher  I absolutely loved reading your update, Chris!!
Look at how far you have come in such a short amount of time. May 17th: "My anxiety levels are through the roof!" July 5th: "I'm alive, walking 4 miles, sitting poolside"!
Amazing, wonderful, fabulous...but I think Susan says it best 'miraculous...Life is good!"!!!!!!! It may not be all rainbows, but in the words of Maya Angelou, "there's a rainbow in every cloud".
So very happy for you and your family.

Chris Purvis  Thanks Diane! It’s been a journey for sure...many sleepless nights and worry but In the end it worked out and I knew it would. Just being on the other side was tough and once your cross over WOW! Hope your doing well!

John Lant  Hey Chris, I am 10 days post op, so far my strength and stamina are returning slowly but surely. I am not even close to walking 4 miles aday but I do walk a brisk 5 lap walk around my home 10 times aday. Keep up your good & speedy recovery.

Catie B  Sounds like you are doing most excellently with your recovery, Chris! Time will fly and you'll be in that pool soooon!

By the way, if you hover your cursor to the right of a post, there's a little gray, downward-pointing arrow. It will let you select Edit and you can tweak your own posts at will.

Dan Vechiola  Way to go Chris! Its great to hear you are doing well and recovering nicely. Thanks for keeping us in the loop!

Noreen Kitchen  It wasn’t bad. They freeze your throat and give you something to relax you. I don’t think most even remember it. Hope they get this all sorted for you

Kelly Stoll  I had one. Wasn't bad. Delayed reaction to seditive (it's a me thing, not a med thing). Still everything went well and went off without a hitch.

You've got this Chris. Hang in there.

Anna Jones  During the cardio version you will be asleep. I'm wondering if they will put you to sleep for the TEE too?

Chris Purvis  They do a twilight as they call it. If it’s the same twilight from the heart cath it’s not enough for me.

Debbie Chatzky  Sometimes it takes a few days or more on the IV meds to convert. Hope that happens for you. If not cardio version is a sure way and from what I read it keeps you out of afib.

Chris Purvis  Thanks Debbie. I’m just dreading yet another procedure that’s all....thought I was done but stuff but this hospital visit has been the worst with being stuck, bruising and just more stuff. Ugh...

Catie B  Soooo sorry you're going through all of this, Chris! Hope they get you on the mend quickly and the afib stopped.

Bobbi Alford  That sucks Chris, the TEE is a Piece of cake. Had my mouth sprayed with something that tasted like Bianca gone bad They asked me to swallow then I was out cold.

Chris Purvis  Thanks Catie, Bobbi and Sue. I’m just not in the mood for more stuff but I guess I have no choice.
Bobbi-are you back in sinus?

Chris Purvis  Started yesterday about 330pm. I’m in controlled a fib now which they want the rate under 100. I’m hoping I convert prior to any new procedure being needed.

Kelly Stoll  Chris,
I get what you are saying about wanting to be done with procedures. Went through much the same thing here and 9 weeks out, am finally starting to feel slightly free. Fingers crossed all goes well, no matter what. Will keep you on my thoughts and hope for the best.

Chris Purvis  Thanks Kelly! I appreciate the positive reply. I’m not trying to whine-I want a glass of wine though lol...just ready to be done but we all are so I’m not alone.

Rose Madura  Chris, I know it's the pits. I've been there. The doctors know what to do. I did have a TEE but it was just prior to the OHS and I was already out. I was readmitted four times and nearly died once, so I get what you are feeling, You will get through this. I hated each time in the hospital because like you, I just wanted to get better. And I finally did. Wishing you the best.

Dan Vechiola  Hang in there Chris! Keep up the great attitude. Our thoughts are with you man we're and pulling for you to get home quick!

Bonnie Stone-Hope  Had a TEE pre-surgery. Actually, quite interesting experience, not bad. Gargled with gel to numb the throat, had an IV to receive sedation. Do not recall the tube placed down my throat, the doctor was watching the screen as he adjusted the tube in various positions to take good pictures of my leaking mitral valve. This procedure allows for better photos of the valve function.

Gregory Brummett  try asking for a valium and two benadryl 25's......that's what I got pre-cath & it really chilled me out.....

Don Faust  I went into afib they called it a flutter 2 weeks to the day after surgery had the tee. Throat was a little sore for a few days. Was one of the easier test performed of the testing you’ve been thru. I had the electro cardio version I went back into rhythm . That’s been 9 weeks ago, so they gave me xerlto for a month as a precautionary medicine to prevent clotting as I understand going into afib is pretty common thing the heart is healing

Kirk Bepler  Hey Chris, hang in there. I also ended up with AFib 2 weeks after surgery, I was unlucky to end up back in the hospital for 3 1/2 days. They put me on 24hr drip to see if it would clear up, lucky me did not work so I ended getting shocked. That worked, it is very common after a surgery. You will be fine, just another small road block in the road to recover!

Keep everyone updated... And hope your feeling better soon!

Jennifer John  Chris, that’s a heckuva journey. Can’t imagine traveling that first week post-op. I’m dreading short car rides. You’re a trooper! Now enjoy your time at home — and be good to yourself. Heal!❤️💪🏼🌺

Michael Eichhorn  Great update Chris! I also am on the list of hairless legs don’t look good on me. Wearing shorts cracks my kids up. 😆

Bonnie Stone-Hope  Hi Chris, your body knows what it needs and right now, it needs "naps" so healing can happen. Sleep like a baby, eat lots of protein for healing, and be kind to your body. Allow people to wait on you and make a fuss....it's OK, it is only temporary and then you will be back to your old self.

Take care,
God Bless

Chris Purvis  Jennifer and Bonnie your right! I was talking with Susan earlier and she said the same thing....slow down, rest and recover. I’m going to do better for sure. Michael, yes my legs look very very strange especially with hair around the ankles 😆.

Adam Pick  Chris, Hour by hour. Day by day. Week by Week. Month by Month. The "bad" and the "ugly" will fade away and be outshined by the "good", the "better" and the "best". I'm here for you. If you need anything, please let me know! Adam

William Nealon  I'm almost 5 months since bovine aortic and mitral valve replacement. Generally I feel pretty good but walking up inclines is no better than it was pre-op. Maybe I'm impatient but very frustrated. I try to walk 2 miles daily but it's hilly here, I just run out of gas. Hoping it gets better soon.

Kirk Bepler  Hey Chris good to hear your doing better and home now, I totally get the incision part. Took me awhile to really look at it, in the first couple of weeks I hated taking showers wanted to get in and out. I think it was my phobia not wanting to get it too wet and open up, this weekend will be the first time I get into the pool and submerge it...

Also I kind of expected a full shave down, but they only shaved my chest, abdomen and only somewhat in the south area....

The big thing is your feeling better!

Rose Madura  Glad to hear you are doing so well. Consider your scar a battle wound. You've been through an incredible journey.

Kim Sable  You made me laugh about the chest tube incision. I hate those more than the actual incision, but at least they are low! Glad you are doing well!!

Chris Purvis  Thanks Kirk! And yes your right it’s all about getting better. You are at the point I can’t wait to be at...we usually spend everyday of the weekend at the pool so missing it is a drag but I’m alive! Should have August at least to get some sun and relax.
Rose your right it’s been a journey to say the least-those scars tell a story of determination to get better!
Kim glad you could get a laugh out of it I was trying to be funny but honest. Just not my favorite part and once it heals hopefully it will be less gruesome for me to look at.

Kathryn Winters  Chris, What an amazing story you have. Did you have your Aortic Valve replaced and also have the aneurysm repaired with a minimally invasive procedure? If so, did Dr. Lamelas place a mechanical or tissue valve? I also had an AVR at St. Luke's.

Rita Savelis  One week is so very early and it sounds like you are doing so very much for someone who just had OHS. This isn't a race. You need some rest. You've been through a lot. It is hard. There are good days and bad days. Lots of hard days. Wishing you some peace. And the "ugly" will fade and change. I avoided looking for awhile....

Bobbi Alford  Gosh Chris you are one tough guy. My. Hats off to those who have to travel after surgery. My commute was 7 miles but it knocked me on my butt.

Sue Tom  Oh my, that is absolutely amazing Chris! One of the surgeons I consulted with said he would fix my ascending aneurysm, which extends into the arch, via a mini sternotomy. The other surgeon said full sternotomy!

John Lant  I wish my upcoming surgery (Mon. 6/25) could be done the same way Chris as yours. But, I not only need a new Aortic Valve, but also a Mytral Valve repair & a double bypass... OUTCH .. for sure. But I also have a great surgeon and a great hospital and I am just looking forward to getting all this behind me and on with my recovery

Chris Purvis  John your going to do great. The sternotomy is the ‘standard’ for a reason. We look forward to hearing from you shortly after your able. I always enjoyed those early updates because you want everyone to do well and pull for them.

Kathy Blank  Wow! I didn't know that was possible. My ascending aorta is 4.0 and so I am having it watched closely. After my robotic MV repair, I would prefer a mimimally invasive option in case I need surgery on the aorta.

Chris Purvis  He can do it Kathy. I pray you don’t come down to surgery but if you do he is worthy of a phone call for sure.

Kathryn Winters  Chris, What an amazing story you have. Did you have your Aortic Valve replaced and also have the aneurysm repaired with a minimally invasive procedure? If so, did Dr. Lamelas place a mechanical or tissue valve? I also had an AVR at St. Luke's.

John White  Dr Lamelas is THE finest cardiothoracic surgeon in the world. He is also a skilled emergency heart doctor. So if you he saved my last fe 2.5 years ago and gave me a pig valve.want the best, go see Joseph Lamelas in Houston.

Joanne Siedhoff  Hi Chris. I haven't been on this site for some time but wanted to comment here. I had Dr. Lamelas do my surgery minimally invasive surgery 4.5 years ago when he was practicing at Mt. Sinai in Miami Beach. Aortic/Mitral replacement minimally. He was highly respected in my area as he should be. Doing wonderfully now and would travel to Baylor if ever the need arises certainly hoping not. Good Luck to you but by your later posts looks like you have done just fine.

Jill Mullikin  I have just contacted your surgeon. Fingers crossed! I am not opposed to travel for the right option for my son.

Mark Wilbur  Hope that the pain remains under control and will diminish quickly. Going home! Home will never have felt so good! Be careful to not push yourself too hard, too soon, Chris.

Chris Purvis  Thanks everyone! Anita I just became more aggressive on asking for pain meds. I should have discussed a plan before surgery so that’s one thing I would change.

Willie Radl  Great news, glad to hear everything went well and you are already released. Now take it easy and get some good R&R over the next few weeks.

Chris Purvis  Thanks Willie! I was telling Michael earlier I was slightly nervous but I guess eventually we have to trust them on both sides right? Surgeons confirm it’s time for surgery and they also confirm when it’s time to recover.

Dan Vechiola  Excellent news Chris! Great job and so glad to hear you will be going home. We learn very quickly this is not about us alone it also involves those who care about us most.

Ron Weaver  Congratulations Chris. Sounds like you picked the right surgeon. Get some rest. I’m so happy for you.

Adam Pick  Great to hear Chris!!!! No doubt. Our bodies are extraordinary. Not sure you saw this... But I posted about you and the chest tubes at Facebook. In 19 hours, the posts received over 1,900 Likes and 260 Comments. To see it, click https://www.facebook.com/heartvalvesurgery/. Thanks again for sharing your story so that our community can relate, help and educate each other.

Janet Siciak  So excited for you! Congratulations. All of us are rooting for you and sending good thoughts for your recovery.

Chris Purvis  Thanks Adam! I hadn’t seen that until you shared with me. Appreciate you doing that and hopefully that helps other patients in the future with managing pain.

Willie Radl  Chris did your tubes enter below your sternum or through the rib cage? Mine went through the rib cage in my right peck, and I didn't feel it at all. I guess I got lucky. What was the pain like, if you can describe it?

Chris Purvis  It was really really tight. I don’t want to look at it but my wife says it’s smaller than my incision for surgery and that site had 2-tubes configured of an V shape. So they V’s into my rib/chest area and on the output machine they met and formed only one tube....anyways it just felt like everything I did pulled on them and it hurt so bad.

Marianne Charters  Chest tubes were the worst for me. 3 weeks out and still have some pain. But everything else went smooth

Catie B  There was not a worse element, pain-wise, than a chest tube. One of mine in particular. Hope you'll be free of yours soon. It should keep getting better!

Mark Wilbur  Sorry to hear you're in pain, Chris. Your pain is my gain because I'll put this on my list of things to remember! Hope that by the time I'm writing this that you already have relief. Rest well, heal well and have a much better day tomorrow.

Rita Savelis  Pain is very personal so you need to be vocal about what you need. It's hard to foresee what any individual patient might be feeling.
Take care Chris and get some rest.

Debbie Chatzky  Chest tubes and day 2 and 3 are very hard. Ask if a different pain med can help more. Can’t wait til they come out!

Chris Purvis  Me too! I guess this is day 2...I’m hoping tomorrow is better. Lots of deep breathing and coughing

Kelly Stoll  Chris,
I used a jar opener to help with the bottle caps. It was a huge help until my strength came back. You can get them online easily or someone you know may even have one you can borrow. Mine is handheld and has four circles in varying sizes that cinch together when you out pressure on the handles.

Adam Skaufel  Hi Chris, I can completely relate about the drain tubes in my chest. My 2nd day in ICU they removed the tubes and I was in terrible pain. It was difficult to breathe because of the pain. I think this was because of my age at 44 when I had the surgery and my nerves are still so active. The medical team decided to give me an anti inflammatory which they never give heart patients, but because I'm so young for the surgery, they determined it was ok for me. Thank God that worked. It reduced the pain and I was able to sleep.

I also had chest pain for longer than the 12 weeks my surgeon told me. I probably had pain a good 6 months after surgery. I feel it was because I was so young for the surgery and my nerves are still very active. Just be patient and take your time with recovery. Praying for you.

Phyllis Petersen  It won't go on forever, but it's really bad in the beginning. Catch it at the beginning and the pain meds work better, so stay on top of things.

Rose Madura  Yes it is best to stay ahessd of the pain which it sounds like a lesson learned for you. You'll feel relief when cheddt tubes come out.

Denise Kirchner  Yes, I agree, the chest tubes were my biggest complaint thru both of my surgeries. You will feel so much better when they are out! Praying for you Chris! One day st a time! God bless you!

Debbie Kelly  I am so very happy to hear the great news. I will be praying for a fast recovery so that you two can get home to your beautiful children.
I will soon be making my appointment with Dr. Lamelas. Very thankful that I live in the Houston area.
I hope you get some much needed rest! Thank you for the update.

Michael Cline  Fantastic news. Before you know it Chris will be home going for daily walks. I'm a week out of AVR and I walked 3 times today for 20 min each walk. Keep us up to date.

Anna Jones  You are going to sail through this. The earlier the easier it will be on you. Prayers and best wishes. We will all be thinking about you and waiting for the good word.

Chris Purvis  My wife will send updates. I know how anxious I was waiting for others who have gone before me to post. It was definitely reassuring!

Kim Lonergan  You will be in my thoughts and prayers tomorrow! You are very inspirational to all of us preparing for surgery. I look forward to hearing from you in recovery!

Debbie Kelly  Praying for you, Dr. Lamelas, and your family. i look forward to reading more of your posts. Just think, you will soon be feeling so much better!

Steve Farthing  Chris - My mini-T was on the right side and the right lung was deflated during the procedure. My doc also used an endoscope thru another tiny 5mm incision to minimize the need to spread the ribs apart for viewing. All worked out very well.

Susan Lynn  Steve - I was wondering why my ribs didn't hurt after my mini-t. I also had two small entry points - I knew one was for a camera, but it's simply amazing how effectively they can perform this surgery without trauma or pain.

Susan Lynn  I was the second surgery - I think it's a good sign. Your surgeon can warm up on the first patient! 😉

Chris Purvis  That’s true. I’m wondering how I’ll feel with no food or water for that long since I’ll be up quite a while.

Susan Lynn  You'll be fine. The next thing you know, you'll be eating the World's Greatest ice chips in the ICU. I don't recall ever enjoying ice more!

Bobbi Alford  Ah, life's detours. At least you know this ahead of time. You're not already on the gurney, rolling down the hallway towards the OR and they park you to the side and say, "Just hang out here for a while, okay?"

Chris Purvis  LOL I’ve read that many many times. I hope it feels like only a second from night night time to waking up.

Marianne Charters  I was second case and it went well (may 30th). We came in around 930 which made for a less rushed morning. I wasn’t interested in food. They will keep you busy with prepping you for surgery. I made a few phone calls. And my husband and son were there until the last moment. No hanging out on a gurney 🙂. Started at noon after chatting with the anesthesiologist and my surgeon DrFannous. She did an amazing repair on my mitral valve. 3 weeks post op my heart is the calmest I can ever remember!

Willie Radl  Good Luck Chris. You never know what will happen. I checked in at 5:30 for my surgery but my surgeon was called in to an emergency surgery that morning so I had to wait until he finished up with that one. I chilled in the holding room for about 6 hours, waiting for an OR to open up. Regardless, the surgery went well and happened in a blink of an eye.

Kelly Stoll  Hi Chris. I flew about 9 months prior to my surgery with shortness of breath but did not have issues aside from flight anxiety. No matter how you choose to travel, be safe and best wishes.

Debbie Kelly  Hi Chris, if you are the one coming to Houston to see Dr. Lamales, I have heard he is one of the best in the country. He is one of the very few here in Houston who performs the lest invasive valve replacement surgeries. He came from Miami, and I was recommended to him from one of his patients. I will be seeing him soon. I wish you the very best. Prayers going out to you and your family.

Chris Purvis  Thanks brother! Can’t freakin wait...nervous but I’ve got the LORD on my side like we all do so I’m in the best hands possible 🙏

Chris Purvis  You too Anna I’ll be thinking about you! Can’t wait to heart from you on the other side...and I was trying to run away myself but got caught.

Anita Edmonds  Enjoy your mini get away. I just had mine and forgot about the surgery for a moment. Now back to reality and yes, the days drag...

Chris Purvis  Thanks all! And yes it will be short lived I think we will sit poolside most of the time...for some reason I’m thinking my mind will be a little more at peace when I’m out there.

Rose Madura  The mini vacation sounds like a great idea to unwind. It won't be long and you'll be on the recovery side. Hang in there!

Tim Chapman  Chris, our prayers are with you. We know you will do fine and pull through this with no issues. I am one of the ones on here that has not had surgery either. I am trying to do as much homework prior to that day as possible. Lead the way for me since my surgery will be within the next year.

Shannon Gray  Hang in there. Second guessing only adds to the stress of the situation. I know this is such a difficult time... we are thinking of you.

Susan Lynn  I had a mini-thoracotomy and would describe my own personal experience with recovery as painless. I never took a narcotic and only took Tylenol occasionally. There can be some numbness and "pins and needles" because they deaden nerves during the surgery and I have heard that some patients complain for years about those sensations. But, most days, I have to remind myself that I even had heart surgery (6 months ago, today!) I had a robotic cardiac surgeon (in an attempt to help me understand the risks and benefits from all forms of heart surgery) tell me, "In a year, it won't matter how the entry was done." Just an fyi -- the mini-thoracotomy requires a femoral cannula, so you will have two incisions. My doc also required a CT with contrast of my chest, abdomen, and pelvis to be sure it was "all clear". So, if you have any issues about either of these things, it may make your decision easier. Best of luck, Chris.

Chris Purvis  Susan thank you! I did the chest CT with contrast several weeks back and all is well. He can replace valve and Ascending aneurysm in that tiny hole. The CT was the worst they use an 18guage IV so I was bleeding all over the place because she wasn’t the best at inserting IV’s...that’s me being nice instead of saying how I truly felt at that moment. So I know they run the tube up the leg did that hurt afterwards? And outside of that nothing major in terms of pain?

Susan Lynn  Chris - the femoral cannula didn't bother me at all. There's an initial bump at the site that dissipates in a few weeks - my surgeon placed the incision in the crease above my right thigh, so it's fading and barely noticeable. As soon as I had my tubes removed on day 2, I was up an walking around - unassisted. I was tired more than anything else or I could have walked around all day.
Of all of the things heart surgery patients worry about this may seem trivial, but I didn't want my husband or my sister to have to assist me with using the bathroom or showering - although that may be the case someday - it wasn't going to be today! Thankfully, I didn't need any assistance at the hospital or at home.
I had my mind set on a quick recovery and that's exactly what I had. Whether that was attributable to mind over matter or mini-thoracotomy vs. mini-sternotomy, I don't know, but I refused to allow this surgery to disrupt my life and those of my family for any significant period of time. I truly believe in positive imagery and that "you move toward and become like that which you think about." From my diagnosis, I visualized my recovered self, not my post-surgical healing self. In the name of the mini-thoracotomy, it did help not to have to stare at a scar down the middle of my chest every day and with the exception of a lifting restriction, I was able to resume all my "normal" activities including driving without any delay.
At the end of the day, it's hard not to choose the Cleveland Clinic - they're #1 in the country for heart surgery for a reason. I'm actually quite surprised that no one is doing the mini-t approach.
In the end, I wanted a good repair (I was only going to do this once), minimal pump time (I want to minimize those complications), early extubation (a popular approach used by most progressive surgeons), and quick recovery. Dr. Scott Goldman made all my wishes come true!

Willie Radl  Chris, In my opinion you shouldn't worry so much about the way they access the heart but rather how the actual heart portion of surgery will go. I can say the mini-sternotomy was not that bad afterwards and I was back to working from home @ 3 weeks and went back to my office after 4, probably could have gone sooner but no need to rush it. Bottom line I think you will be happy with either procedure.

Chris Purvis  He is-you all are right. Honestly I’m a whimp. I’m strong in the gym(well I was) but I hate pain. Hate it hate it...I mean I run from bees and wasps literally run. I’m thinking about recovery. Both surgeons are top notch-I’ve got the head of CC and I’ve got a pioneer that basically got thorocotamy surgery into existence. I think both will do fantastic on the heart but you all know how it feels/felt thinking about coughing, sneezing..all of that stuff just gives me more anxiety. Sorry for the rant but I appreciate you all more than you know-your advice and perspectives are the real deal and that’s what this site was designed for 🙏

Susan Lynn  If I can do it, you can do it. I'm the international president of the wimp club! You've got this. 😁👍❤

Chris Purvis  LOL I think I invented that club I promise. Even my wife and kids love to have a joke on my behalf because I’m like the garbage bag commercial whimpy whimpy whimpy

Rose Madura  I have a seven inch scar that I'm very proud. That was the least of my worries. I wanted a successful surgery - and got it. I wouldn't have cared how big the scar was. I had minimal pain - and you can control it with Tylenol or prescription relief the doctor prescribes. I'd stop 2nd guessing yourself and try to relax if I were you. I hate needles too and had my share of them from being in the hospital 24 days. You will get through it and you are stronger than you realize.

Chris Purvis  Yea not concerned about cosmetics or scar size-both surgeons will deliver a great surgery. I want both a great surgery and a great recovery call me selfish but that’s what I want. That will vary from both procedures and that’s all I was really saying with my post.

Catie B  Keep your heart pillow handy and learn to hug it to your chest quickly in the event of sneezes/coughs. That will royally cut down on that particular pain.

Lisa McLaughlin  I remember asking my surgeon why he chose to do the mini sternotomy instead of the mini thoracotomy. He said the mini sternotomy gave him better access and I spent less time on the heart lung machine.