Erica's Journal

Tammy Pilcher  Hey Erica! It's so good to see you here again! Congratulations on your 1 year anniversary! Mine is coming up the end of this month. You were one of the first people here I connected with when I joined. I remember how similar our stories were. I remember that your father passed soon after your surgery and I understand completely how bittersweet your milestones are without him to share them. My father has been gone now for nine years, but I still miss him so much. I feel sure they are watching over us though. Take care and prayers for your continued progress. God bless you!

Shirley Turner  Hi Erica yes life throws us a lot of curve balls and we just have to cope the best we can. Sorry for the loss of your Dad. Hugs Shirley.

Steven A Husted  happy anniversary erica did you get a cow valve hope you have many more anniversaries to share with family and friends

Erica Eberl  Thank you, Tammy! Thank you, all! I did get a cow tissue valve. I was able to be part of the Edward Life sciences Commence trial. Positive thoughts and prayers to all of you!!

Tammi Gunwall  Erica, I am so sorry to hear of your loss of your father. Peace be with you during this difficult time. Your memories will help to keep you strong and moving foward in health. God bless you and your family.

Joseph Ballett  I am sure he is still watching over you, enjoying your milestones with you. He will always be with you!

Tammy Pilcher  Erica, I am so sorry about your Dad! I know you will miss him so much! I lost my father in 2006. He was only 65 and was the happiest person I knew! Always smiling and loved life! I still miss him so much, but God really does help you get through these times. The assurance that I will see him again makes a huge difference in coping with the loss. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers. Love, Tammy

Lynne Jeffreys  Just think of all the happy times you had with your father. My Dad was 66 when he passed and I still think of him every day with my Mom. They're always there in your heart!

Bob M  I am so sorry that your Dad passed away. I know you will miss him. Our prayers are for you and your family

Joan Napier  Erica, I am so sorry for the loss of your dear father. May he rest in peace. You and your family are in my prayers during this difficult time. It is good to hear that you're doing better with your physical healing. Keep us posted. May God bless you. Joan

Louise Llewellyn  Have just read your journal Erica. Sorry to hear that you've really been through it and glad things are looking up for you. Take care and take it easy!

Susan Ericsson  I am so happy to hear this! You had such a rough road but have traveled with amazing grace. I continue to keep you in my prayers!

  Hey Erica. I feel your pain and frustration and hope this works out. It is really odd that some people sail through the recovery while others get tested and twisted around.
The doctor would probably say that you're one of the 2% of people that have this kind of problem but to you the "2%" is an awfully big number.
Thinking of you. Bob O.

Susan Ericsson  I hope this is the beginning of a good recovery! I am thinking if you and praying for you. Please rest and take care of yourself. It's so hard for us moms not to overdo, but this time you have to put yourself first. We are cheering for you.

Joan Napier  Erica, you are such a trooper with all of these challenges you have faced in your recovery! I second what Sue said: we are praying for you and cheering you on. It sounds like you have turned the corner and that you are in very good hands. BTW those wound vacs are amazing when it comes to healing wounds quickly. I was a home health nurse for 5 years, and used them often for patients. Keep us posted on your progress. As the saying goes here, Onward and Upward! Joan

Joseph Ballett  Erica i had my wound cleaned out yesterday also but it sounds like it was nowhere as bad as yours but yes it sure hurts

Nancy D  now to move forward to complete healing and wellness. Give yourself time to heal, put yourself first as a priority! Self care is not selfish! You will get through this, and it will be great when you do! Take good care!

Nancy D  Praying you will be home soon, healing well, and back on track. You have had a bigger speed bump than most on this road we are travelling, but soon this too will be behind you, and back to your life! Stay positive, stay focused, stay tough! You can do this. Take good care!!!

  So sorry for what you are going through Erica. I will certainly keep you in my prayers. My heart goes out to you. I am also sending a hug.

Erica Eberl  Thank you, all! I just hope my valve lasts as long long long as possible and when I have to have my next surgery I am going with a mechanical because this open heart surgery is no joke and way beyond anything I expected.

Joseph Ballett  It is way beyond anything but the best part is ...your alive! Take it slow and easy and you will be fine ! All your friends here are behind you.

Joan Napier  Erica, I'm sorry to hear you have had such a rough time of it. It sounds like you are getting excellent care, and that you are on the road to recovery. Keep hanging in there. Your positive attitude will get you through this. Prayers ongoing for you.

Nancy D  oh my Erica! I am so sorry you are having such issues! Try to rest and take care of you! Praying for your complete healing.
Take it easy!

Kathryn Waymire  Yes I'm sure you did. I'm glad your where you can get treatment. When you said you were felling bad I wondered if you need to talk to your Doctor. God has your back . Keep us posted please.

D. Carol Moore  Erica: I'm so sorry but be assured that you are in the right place. God will take care of you.... "He sent His word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction." Psalm 107:20

Joan Napier  Erica, I'm really sorry to hear about your recovery "bumps in the road". And it's such a disappointment to miss your daughter's Halloween activities. A gentle reminder: there will be many more opportunities to celebrate holidays with her, but what is most important is that her mom focus on getting better (not that I needed to tell you that!). Rest, let the nurses and doctors take care of you, and you will be moving forward on the road to recovery soon. Hang in there! Praying for you. Joan

Susan Ericsson  Oh. I am so sorry! And kind of mad at the universe. I feel like once we go through this surgery we shouldn't have to endure any bumps in the road because the surgery is so HUGE! But our bodies don't work that way, do they? So I am praying for you, and sending you mental hugs and warm vibes. I'm glad that the doctors are treating you and hopefully this will put an end to the terrible pain you we're having. You came brought the surgery and you will come through this!

Susan Ericsson  I'm so sorry to hear this. I'm really glad the docs got on top of the infection and you are looking at going home soon. I know your family misses you too. I'm praying for you, for healing and for continued courage. You are one strong mama.

Susan Ericsson  Oh, I'm sorry, Erica! I've been praying for you. I have pain at three weeks too. The doc told me as we get better we start doing more and it stirs things up sometimes. Check with your doc right away, and make sure they give you what you need to stay on top of the pain. I was a sobbing mess several nights in a row. Doc changed the timing of meds and it helped. Also ordered me to do nothing for a few days, which is really hard. I have better luck with feedback and proactive response from my cardiologist than my surgeon around this stuff. Here's a gentle hug,

Tammy Pilcher  Erica, I'm so sorry you're having such pain. I am praying for you. I don't know firsthand, but I remember seeing someone say that massage helps.

Erica Eberl  Thanks, ladies! I asked the same question on a BAV Facebook group. Some people offered the advice that a chiropractor can help a lot. I am going to find one tomorrow!!!!

Susan Ericsson  Erica are you trying heat? I have one of those neck wraps that heats up in the microwave and it's been a big help.

Erica Eberl  Yes, I have been using a heating pad. It does help a bit. I also called my doctor this evening and asked for a refill of the some pain meds. Something I hated doing and was embarrassed about, but my pain is so severe I started crying, in major distress over it. Told myself it's okay, stressing out and being in distress is way worse than calling in for a refill.

Erica Eberl  I'll look around for a neck pad, sounds helpful. My husband is also going to pick up a massaging tool because he is terrible at giving massages, and they do help me.

Nancy D  have you tried a cool pack? I have a large sized gel one for neck and shoulders, back etc- I keep it in a pillowcase in the fridge at all times, and I found that really eased the pain in the shoulders. I think we brace ourselves so much those muscles get all knotted up. You can alternate heat and cool packs too.

Joan Napier  Erica. Sue, and Nancy, I'm sorry to hear about your issues with back/ shoulder pain. I don't have any personal perspective yet, but the ideas suggested of cold or warm packs, or massage sound good. These unexpected issues can sometimes be the toughest, (and I had not heard about this typeof pain post op), so I appreciate your sharing. May your pain resolve very soon!

Nancy D  my third week was tough, and I didn't have a OHS, mine was done right thoracotomy approach. I think it was in part due to sleeping in a recliner, which was necessary, feeling tense a lot of the time and thinking I should have been further along. Tylenol, ice, and heat alternating and hot showers were my relief. Its all long gone for me. Just a residual right rib tenderness due in great part to a fall I had earlier on. Hopefully Joan, you will be prepared and not need any of this type advice!! Take good care!

Joan Napier  Thank you Nancy! All of the info and advice you have shared is really helpful and appreciated! God bless. Joan

Susan Ericsson  Dear Erica,
I'm so happy to read this. I'm glad your're here, too. Yes recovery is definitely up and down. I find by the time I've walked and moved around all day I'm pretty sore at night, the fatigue also surprises me. I just crash into a deep sleep. Sorry about your incision. Mine is under my right breast, and very sore at the moment. Take care of yourself, and keep taking those deep, grateful breaths. Sue

Joan Napier  So good to hear from you Erica! I'm sorry to hear that you are having a few issues in recovery. (it seems to be the norm from what I read on this site) Sounds like you are hanging in there with your usual great attitude. Keep on going, we're all rooting for you! Joan

Eleanor R  I thought my surgeon was the only one who "hides" the drainage tubes under the right breast. I had anticipated two holes in my stomach, but not at the underwire line. Once the tubes came out, for me it was heavenly relief as it seems one of them had hit a nerve that caused the only pain I had, but it was serious. The little holes closed up nicely but the visiting nurse had me put loose gauze over them, so that clothing would not rub against them. Needless to say, no bra for me for a couple of weeks, just camisoles under loose shirts, and the gauze strips were needed even more in that case. Feeling really tired is definitely an after effect of this surgery, for even now at more than 3 months after surgery, by bedtime I feel really tired, irrespective of what I've done. Erica I loved your description of being alive and in your daughter's room. I know you family would have the same sensation of joy and relief at having you back with them. Best wishes on your continued healing. Eleanor

Joan Napier  P.S. Erica, Sue and Eleanor, thank you all for sharing so candidly. Such openness helps me to mentally prepare for the road ahead.

Tammy Pilcher  Erica, I'm so happy for you to be home! I've seen others talk about those same feelings. Since I haven't had surgery yet, I don't know firsthand. But I think that might be a normal feeling. I'll keep you in my prayers for a speedy and full recovery.

Susan Ericsson  Forgot to say I haven't had that anxiety, more the struggle to deal with pain, limitations, life going on around me but not being able to control uh I mean contribute, lack of sleep. I find those relaxation mediations really helpful though. Hope you will too. Reach out any time.

Joan Napier  Glad to hear you're home Erica! I hope your anxiety goes away quickly. Sounds like you're taking positive actions to deal with it. Prayers ongoing for you. Joan

Eleanor R  Hi, Erica. I know exactly what you feel or think about with the anxiety. The first days are a personal challenge, since we became so dependent on machines, monitors, nurses and technicians, with constant feedback. it is scary to think we are autonomous once again. My own "weirdness" manifested itself in my reviewing every night before sleep the whole hospital process. Since I was asleep for much of it, my over active imagination filled in the blanks. Not a healthy process, and I just had to make myself stop that nonsense. Not sure how I did it other a very conscious statement to myself that I was not going to review this, that I would stop it and move on. Somehow it worked. It does take a while during your first weeks home to just trust your body, and to not get freaked out with every ache, twinge or whatever. Some things are so new and surprising (a sneeze is very different while your chest is healing, it feels like rockets exploding inside you, not a pleasant sensation unless you have been able to grab a pillow and hold it to your chest. The pulling sensation when you reach too far out or too far up, also is new and at first scary. I took it as my body talking to me, letting me know how much is enough. It took me several weeks to realize that not everything that happens in my body is necessarily related to the surgery. At the beginning, it actually was more, with nerves and muscles healing, or reaction to the drugs I came home with. Then, as those meds were discontinued and I started cardiac rehab, I realized I am fine. If I am tired by 10pm, that is probably OK and not a symptom of heart failure! Honestly! Or if my chest twinges, it is muscle soreness from muscles I had not used in a long time, and not a heart attack! So you can see, you are not alone in having these thoughts. I think it is our mind, now really alert, looking out for us. We just have to manage it. Sounds like you have a good system from the Clinic. I had a visiting nurse from the hospital and that was my comfort, her telling me that everything looked great. It is a little scary to be put back in charge of yourself, but it is empowering too. You will make it just fine and before you know it you will not associate anything with the surgery or your heart. Best wishes to you as you continue your healing. Eleanor

Eleanor R  Hi, Erica. I forgot to mention one weird effect the surgery had on me, which I understand is kind of normal. It was not the surgery, but the send-home meds, that gave me a kind of "blah" feeling. I noted it even before my family, and at first I felt bad about it, thinking ok this is over, all went well, what's up with you? Turned out to be beta blockers that slow the heart rate, lower blood pressure, etc. Once the meds were sorted out I was fine. At the beginning of week 2 at home, I felt like a robot, couldn't move my arms very much, plus this sense of "whatever". So glad when it went away. I still remember the first time I actually laughed, probably in week 3, feeling like I was back to normal. Be kind to yourself, you are in a healing mode, and your confidence and spunk, which you seem to have plenty of, will come bounding back. Best wishes to you. Eleanor

Liidia Wootten  Hi Erica - I agree with a lot of what Eleanor wrote. A couple of things that I noticed was a kind of sadness with the anxiety. More like questioning will I ever be normal, whatever that is, again. I'm post op 13 weeks now and still get twinges when I do something. That's a signal to either do the task differently or not at all. The worst, especially 2 to 3 weeks after surgery were the pain meds. They gave me the most bizarre and frightening dreams. I wouldn't take them unless absolutely necessary and tried to work solely with extra-strength Tylenol. I had the prescriptions in the house on advice from a nurse - better to have in the middle of the night, than not have. I also had a prescription for Valium to stop the muscle spasms in my back. Something that really got me in the hospital. I'm 6 feet tall and was constantly fighting gravity in the hospital bed - waking up all scrunched at the foot of the bed. So, even though it was painful to lie down, getting back to a king-size bed was a relief. Just learned to get down and up with the least amount of pain.
Be good to yourself.

Adam Pick  Erica. Wooo-Whoooo! Congrats on your homecoming. Fyi, what you are experiencing is completely normal. But, trust me... Dr. Svensson would not have let you step one foot outside of the Cleveland Clinic if there was any doubt that you were not ready for the next chapter of your life. :)

Erica Eberl  Thanks, all! This whole open heart surgery thing and recovery is way more traumatic than I expected. Who would have thought? ;) Just went on a short little walk with family. I felt really good yesterday evening and today has been good.

  I can relate to the anxiety post-surgery. I think it can be hard to "trust" your body again. But maybe try to trust the doctors and pamper yourself A LOT. peace and blessings to you Erica, and congratulations on your surgery :-)

Susan Ericsson  Way to go on the walk! I live on a cul de sac. I keep walking up and down it, as it empties out onto a street with a big hill. I'm bored, but have visions of getting stuck on the hill! Eventually I'll have someone drive me to a flat zone! I wish I could walk my dog, but I know if we meet another dog she could pull the leash. She doesn't understand why I am walking without her.

Jeff Offermann  Erica, i ended up with a collapsed lung and kept my chest tube for about week. Didn't mind the chest tube as much as didn't like staying in the hospital for so long. Getting it out and getting out of the hospital will make you so happy.

Liidia Wootten  Hi Erica - I had the same problem when I was in the hospital. I was sooo ready to go home, but one chest tube kept draining. Sending you positive thoughts to get you home.

Joan Napier  Erica, Praying that your tube will come out very soon! Keep on with your great attitude because that helps everything.

Ruth Valenzuela  Love hearing about everyone's successful surgeries. Take it easy now Erica and do only what's necessary!

Eleanor R  You are going to do great, I'm sure. I know you will be so glad to get home, and sleep without being awakened and prodded, eat and drink on your own schedule, and be with those you love full time. Keep on keeping on, speedy recovery wished for you. Since my own adult daughter is an Erica, you have a special namesake place in my heart. I'm almost 3 months post surgery, in the midst of cardiac rehab and back to first grade - I volunteer to help the non-English speakers in our local elementary school, catching them up to reading and understanding English. Fun stuff, love kids. Best wishes, Eleanor

Eleanor R  My thoughts and prayers will be with you tomorrow and next week Erica. Best wishes for a smooth surgery and steady recovery, I'm sure you are a strong young woman and will soon be telling us about your own experiences. Eleanor

Joan Napier  Erica, Add my prayers to the list too! Look forward to hearing from you after surgery and as you recover. May God bless you. Joan

Terrie Syvertsen  Erica- Add yet more prayers to your list of well wishers and those sending universal energy of nothing but good positive things your way as you head to your surgery. Looking forward to hearing from you when you are in the recovery part of your journey. Bless you, Terrie

Adam Pick  Hi Erica, I am hopeful that by now Dr. Svensson and team have successfully completed their work for the day. And, most importantly, that you are recovering peacefully. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Adam Pick  Hi Erica, Sorry to hear that your cath wasn't a bed of roses. Best part. It's over. Keep moving on. You are one step closer. As for the valve you reference above, did Dr. Svensson mention the name of it? I'm curious.

Erica Eberl  The worst part was not being able to eat all day. Honestly, that's what I was thinking the whole time, "hurry up, I want to eat!" :) The Valve is a Magna Ease valve. The trial is called the COMMENCE TRIAL(models 11000A and 11000M) with a new tissue treatment platform. It's the exact same model as the other Magna Ease bioprotheses the difference is it is treated with an anti calcium buildup process, in hopes that it will not develop calcium build up as the the others will. So, it will last longer. Also, it is a non-rinse model, meaning they do not have to rinse it before placing it in my heart. This means they can get my heart pumping and started faster. There won't be 4-5 mintutes where my heart is stopped. They hope that these two new treatments of the valve will prolong the life of the valve. Adam, what do you think of patients entering trials for new valves?

Adam Pick  Excellent attitude Erica. Be a solder. Be courageous. No melt downs necessary. Just steps. Take them one-by-one-by-one-by-one. Then, let Dr. Svensson and his team do their thing. You are going to do great!

Holly Geary  Erica, I had the melt down the night before surgery. Luckily my husband was there to calm me down. The hospital also has medications to help with the anxiety and a sleep aid to help you get a good nights rest (use them). I don't remember anything from the night before or the morning of surgery. You are going to do fine. I am four weeks out today and going for a 1 mile walk with my friend and dog this afternoon. Keep up the positive attitude!

Laura Brase  Erica, you and me both girl! My 4 and 2 year old have kept me on my toes and not really given me time to think about myself or the surgery. At nights before falling asleep is my time to think. I'll be thinking and praying for a wonderful surgery for you!! 6 days left for me. :)

Joan Napier  Good for you Erica! I feel the same way, with moments where I feel a bit panicked about the whole prospect of impending surgery. But you are right, we have family members counting on us. So take a few deep breaths, say a prayer, and keep on going!

Janet Underwood  It's wonderful that your parents are coming together to support you, Erica! Lots of prayers headed your way!

Eleanor R  That is a long visit, if they are planning on staying for the surgery. Hope all goes well. My brother and sister in law came to be with my daughter during the surgery, but they came on Friday afternoon before the Monday surgery so that we didn't make each other even more nervous. I hope the visit and the distraction, in a pleasant way, works out for you. Eleanor

Erica Eberl  Thanks, all! They are coming up to watch my 2 children(2 and 6) so my sister and husband can be with me for my pre-op procedures and when I finally get to talk to my surgeon. To be my advocates and to help retain all the information I will receive tomorrow. We're going to figure out the length of their stay and all that when they get here tonight. They are a few hrs drive away, so it's not as stressful as flying cross country.

Adam Pick  Erica, I'm getting some dental work done today as well -- a cavity. I don't know about you but... Going to the dentist is definitely on my "Top 5 Things I Know I Need To Do But Prefer Not To". Do you pre-medicate? I do.

Erica Eberl  Ugh, I hate the dentist, hence the reason I had to have a tooth pulled. Yes, I take antibiotics before. I'm back at home resting for the day, sans tooth :) Good luck to you both!

Joaquim Cimoes  Dear Erica, I am a dentist and I understand your fear, but is very important to keep a good oral health, mainly in patients with systemic conditions.

Erica Eberl  Thanks, Renata :) I know, I know. I will definitely keep up with things now that I know how serious my heart issues are.

Erica Eberl  Thank you, Susan! It really is right around the corner. And I still have so much to do! I'll be thinking of you also!

Erica Eberl  Susan, I'm doing okay. Getting plenty of sleep- my kids wear me out! I'm trying my best to stay positive and strong. How are you doing?

Susan Ericsson  Feeling positive, but not sleeping. Find I can get a little weepy and emotional if I'm with my sons and my thoughts drift to "what if." But that doesn't happen often.

Erica Eberl  Yea, I have been emotional too, but fighting it(not sure if that's good) My emotional thoughts are centered around my children also. They are my life and I want to be here for them for a very very long time.

Eleanor R  Even at age 68 I had the same thoughts Erica. However, being older I did have already a medical directive, will, etc. But I made sure I put them in folder and left them on top of my home office desk. That is just how I am, I truly did not think I would die, honestly, but ever the girl scout, I wanted to be prepared. In my case it was more necessary for I am a widow with just one child, now grown but as fearful for her Mom as any child would be. I did not tell her or anyone that I had put all the information together, and only at the last moment mentioned it to my adult nephew, in the guise of "just in case". I am sure you are going to have so many more Soccer mornings, and cases of remembering what you had agreed to take where and when. You will just have some down time for a few weeks, where your driving is grounded, and you won't be doing certain things (vacuuming, gardening, lifting up your arms or even stretching them out too far). But, before you know it, you will be going up and down stairs without even thinking about it, reaching up to a top shelf, hanging a blouse on a high rack, and then you may realize "wow, I couldn't do that last week". We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers, as well as your caregivers. Eleanor

  Hi Erica, You can read my journal, I have had the same feelings as you. I found out pretty early on, from some great people on this site, that the feelings are completely normal. I felt like I was on an emotional roller coaster. But like you, I feel lucky and it really is a gift for me to know and get this fixed before it is too late. I am grateful for that. But it is heart surgery, nothing to take lightly and all I could do was find the best surgeon for me and find the right support. Mission accomplished. I have two daughters, 9 and 11, who I take care of full time, as I am recently divorced. I have a will and I do not think it's ever a bad idea to get things in order, I need to change a few things in mine next week. We will be OK. I have a little over a week before I leave for surgery and NOW at this point, my thoughts are, OK, let's get this done. I have things to do...:) BIG shift change for me. I have stopped crying. My nine year old, as I was putting her to sleep last night, said she is going to text me every night, even when I am in ICU, because she will miss me. It's certainly a journey. My priest ( I am catholic) has invited me and my two girls the Sat before I leave for surgery, for a special annointing of the sick...it's not only for people who are about to die...that is not why we are doing it. It is to help to bring spiritual and even physical strength during a time like this. I loved the idea when he explained it to me, as my two daughters will be part of it as well. We all come from different backgrounds...but my point in sharing is I really thought hard about what would help me and mentally prepare for all of this. And I know I completed the list. I took at trip for three days and did lots of gentle yoga and meditation. I really had to think of ways to get focused and centered, as this was following a difficult divorce, even though it was good for me. I really was not sure two months ago where I was going to find the strength to become stable and strong. But I did, and surrounding myself with who I believed, would be the best support for me. This site is definitely an unexpected comfort for me. First couple of days after surgery will be hard, but then they are over and behind us. Good luck, and I hope that you are able to find peace soon as well.

Erica Eberl  Thanks, Eleanor and Christine. I'm glad to have this community with people who can completely relate to what I am feeling. I wish I could press the fast forward button and be at the place in recovery where I can actually move my arms ;)

Eleanor R  Erica, I had exactly the same thoughts right before surgery. I did not know much about my arms' limitation at that point, but I said many times to my family "I wish the surgery were tomorrow". They did not! I just wanted it over with, the waiting and my over active imagination. Probably because of this, I researched the surgery, the surgeon, the hospital, recovery, patients' journals, you name it, I researched it to death. Kept my mind occupied, and I was prepared. It was not nearly as traumatic as I thought, but unless your family members have experience with ICUs, I would warn them about how you will look when they are first called into the ICU to see you as you are waking up from surgery. I have an emotion daughter with zero experience with hospitals, so I had to make sure she knew that all the machines would be great, they would be keeping me alive, breathing, hydrated and comfortable. On her own she looked at this sight, at some patients' photos of them in the ICU. She even ventured to watch a video of a heart operation, something I have never wanted to do myself. At any rate, she did not pass out or become emotional in the ICU, but had arranged with me that she would tell me "The operation is over, you are fine" and for my part I committed to wave to her, since I imagined the breathing tube might still be in at that point. I waved and gave her a thumbs up, which she keeps telling me what one of the best events of her life. So, let your folks be prepared and not scared. You will be fine, feeling no pain at that point, but really sleepy, but they will be so glad to see you. Good luck to you, and to you too Christine. Then, all of a sudden, the reins are handed over to you, to do your part in the healing. You'll have a great team of medical professionals guiding you, but before you know it they will have you sitting up, getting out of the bed (often just hours after surgery), walking a little bit, and on your way to healing. Best wishes. Eleanor

Michael Meyer  Erica:

I saw your question and wanted to respond. I expected the best but prepared for the worst ensuring that my wife was aware of all financial information. We have wills, living wills, health powers of attorneys and I wrote letters to my children, and Mom and Dad. I think it is good to be prepared even though in many cases >99% of the time we come out of the operating room. Isn't that just amazing!

Erica Eberl  Thank you, Michael! I am going to write letters to my husband and children. A friend of mine pointed out that the letters will be great for them to have regardless of my heart surgery. It is amazing and that's what I am focusing on!

Clare Auten  I wear my scar proudly. As I tell people, it was either go buy a whole new set of turtlenecks or not care that it shows.

Kenny Knox  Hi Erica- good to see a fellow Buckeye on here! You're in the best hands with the Cleveland Clinic. My advice during recovery is to not watch the Browns! Seriously though I'd take it easy and let the family wait on you!

Erica Eberl  Thanks, Kenny! My mom is a Browns fan and every year I get a text from her before their first game, "Yay, the Brownies are back!" Then I get another one soon after, "They lost again, I had to change the channel I couldn't watch anymore." Lol

Adam Pick  Hey Erica, We need to adjust the way that our new system handles links in posts -- so we shortened yours using bitly. It still links to the same post at pinterest -- just a smaller text link. We need a little bit of time to create a solution for this. Thanks for your patience! Adam

Erica Eberl  Thanks, Adam! I tried to post a really awesome video by The Oh Hellos called "Hello, My Old Heart." It's a really great song and I hope to share with you all on here when we can share links. In the mean time you or anyone else that would like to watch it can find it on YouTube.

Laura Brase  I copied and pasted the link…it's beautiful! 3.5 weeks to surgery and my emotions are going crazy!!! Songs like this do it every time. :)
Thank you for posting this Erica!

Julia Hsu  It depends on your condition before surgery. If you didn't have symptoms, the changes might be subtle. But if you suffer from shortness of breath & couldn't do physical activities, you might see big improvements. Also, it might take a while before you truly "recover".

Richard Cohen  This is new to me too, but from reading Adam's book it is quite likely that your ability to function will be greatly reduced for at least several weeks

Eleanor R  Hi, Erica. You should not be bed ridden at all. Even in the ICU the nurses will have you standing and sitting in a recliner some hours after surgery, and by two they will have you beginning to walk from your room around the hall a little. You will be tired, will tire quickly, and won't be able to use your arms very much, so you will need some help the first couple of weeks home. Slowly and steadily you will gain back mobility and strength. You are welcome to read the earlier portions of my journal for a description of what recovery is like - like I said, steady progress. I'm now at week 9 and pretty much back to normal, driving, cooking and cleaning, shopping and playing with the dog. But still there are things I cannot do - anything to do with pushing, pulling or lifting weight (no cutting the grass, no carrying heavy loads, etc.). I wish you the very best. Eleanor

Laura Brase  Hi Erica! I'm in your boat here. I have surgery in one month and have an almost 2 year old and a 4 year old. I have my fears of where they will go in the days following my return to home. Two of my sisters work in the ICU/ER and previously the cardiac unit and have told me that I will not be able to be alone with them for a few weeks after surgery. My husband will take a couple weeks off to help care for me and the kids.

Clare Auten  My kids were a little older (4, 7 and 13) at the time of my surgery. My youngest didn't require lifting so I did stay alone with her during the day just 10 days after surgery. Lots of resting though....get one to the bus then rest, make her a bowl of cereal then rest, shower then rest, etc. It may be a little trickier with a two year old. My little girl was content to help and watch preschool programming for a couple weeks. Not the best parenting but I did nap through a few episodes of Sesame Street.

Erica Eberl  My 2 year old is a very dramatic little guy. Not being able to pick him up is going to be hard. He is also going through a very clingy phase right now that I hope passes before my surgery. My husband is a huge helper even on normal days, my family is going to come in to town to help us. It's going to be tough, but I know we'll get through it.

Eleanor R  It will be hard for your son. He will wonder where you are the days you are in the hospital, then wonder why he can't climb on you when you're home. You will want to, but your chest will tell you "no way!". You'll have to invent new ways to snuggle with him, but he will be thrilled to have Mommy home again soon. Best wishes to you all. Eleanor

Nancy D  Hi Erica! I am 3 weeks post o[ Mitral valve replacement. Once in surgery, it was apparent that the valve was beyond repair and I had selected the tissue/cow valve over the mechanical. I too wasn't thrilled with being on Coumadin at 57 years old for the rest of my life. It wasn't just the lab work necessary at least monthly, but the dietary changes- no green leafy veggies, broccoli etc that would have been a big thing for me. Also I was concerned about the mechanical valves clicking- I don't sleep well most nights, but I was worried I wouldn't get used to the clicking- despite some one I know personally who said it just takes a few weeks, and people on here that say the same thing. As far as the tissue valve the drawback that I would most likely need a re-do in my lifetime was less a problem for me than the above mentioned mechanical drawbacks. In 15 yrs or so think of the advancements possible by then...... So, I am now the proud owner of a bovine/cow mitral valve and am recovering nicely. Cardiac rehab begins in 4 days and I am happy to be going!! I wish you success and rapid recovery, and may your research bring you to the right decision for you!! Everyone of us is different and the choice is a personal one!! All the best!
Nancy D

Liidia Wootten  Hi Erica, I chose a cow valve for my aortic valve replacement for many of the same reasons as Nancy. The way medical technology is advancing every year, I thought by the time I needed another surgery it wouldn't be as involved as what I had originally - mainly a scar about 18 inches long in the middle of my chest. I walk 2 to 3 miles everyday and have been adding tasks everyday, getting closer to a "normal" life. My surgery was 8 weeks ago and I'm 61.

Laura Brase  The biggest factor in deciding between valves is children. I'm not done having babies and I refuse to be on Coumadin and risk having pregnancy issues because of it. I wanted to feel as normal as possible with a new valve and the tissue gave me that Peace of Mind.

Erica Eberl  I'm positive that I want a biological valve at this point. I want my life to be as "normal" as possible and I think a biological valve will give me that. Thank you all, for your responses!

Lillian Mark  I have a form of hemophilia. It is fairly likely that the repair of my very diseased mitral valve will end in a mechanical valve.i have known I would have valve surgery for 32 years...of yearly monitoring. I have lived with the restrictions Eleanor mentioned for those 32 years....no pushing , pulling, heavy or extended lifting(isometric s). I was blessed with two sons via natural childbirth. I pushed and bled etc...etc. They are adults now☺.I may be able to do things post op that I basically was not able to do....tgat is exciting.I also have a balance and vision disorders, so I am usually bruised all over. I am 51 and the protocol my surgeon follows does not qualify me for a tissue valve. The dangers of valve surgeries sooner than later and the degeneration of a tissue valve combined with my many health issues and young age , I fit criteria for repair or mechanical replacement. Yes, if I am unable to have the valve repaired, I will have blood thinners along with my poor clotting disease for the rest of my life. ......hoping that is a very long time! I have feared the blood thinners for so so many years. I realized regarding my health issues, that I have been monitoring , advocating, being proactive on a daily basis, that I can do the blood thinner monitering and safe lifestyle.it is so individual what type of procedure and treatment we follow.In my case I have had too many surgeries in the sense that at some point my body organs suffer.My doctors limit procedures if maintainance and lifestyle adjustments are an option.So we pray I am blessed with a solid repair and if mechanical comes into play, I can add those issues to my plate. I was happy to see the great responses from the heart friend's here☺I was also happy to read you feel good about your decision. I have no intention of any negative thoughts regarding these supportive messages of a tissue valve. I wanted to share another angle on the subject. I have been amazed at all the different categories of valve issues and surgery techniques. ...i have learned so much in this community. The pre op support and the post op support and stories are all unique, but with the similar thought processes and hopes and prayers during recovery. 💟 you are in my thoughts and prayers.☺

Eleanor R  Valve choice is a difficult decision, and everyone on this site has gone through the same process of researching, thinking about valve types, consulting others, worrying over, and probably even changing their minds (I know I did). It used to be that age was the determining factor, and in some places it still is, with cardiologists recommending mechanical for younger patients, tissue for older ones like me (68). My own cardiologist thought mechanical might be better, to avoid a re-do operation later in life, should I outlive the tissue valve. The surgeon I had was just the opposite, very opposed to mechanical mainly for the warfarin for life, for older folks. Everyone has views and deep feelings about which is better. I love what my primary care physician told me: (1) either valve is infinitely better than the one you currently have; (2) whichever valve you choose will be the right one for you, once you've made a decision, it will be what is right for you. I hoped then that he was right, I believe he was. Tough message about my own valve, but he was so right, without replacing it, mortality figures for symptomatic aortic stenosis are rather grim. I researched lot about valves, looked at many websites, and asked the surgeon many, many questions. The valve he used, which is his current "go to" valve was the one I had thought I might want, so it was a happy meeting of minds. He did, however, reserve the right to use whatever tissue valve he felt was the best for my particular situation, once he was "in" and of course I agreed to that. I was happy with the outcome, he was too. I wish the very same for you, Erica. Best wishes, Eleanor

Erica Eberl  Thank you, ladies! I'm trying my best to stay strong a push through :) Trying my best to only think positive uplifting thoughts:) I was terrified of the surgery at first, but after realizing my condition is fatal without surgery it put things perspective for me. I have no choice(about OHS) I want to live a long life. You gotta do what you gotta do :)

Eleanor R  Exactly! You have to push forward, in spite of my hospital classifying my surgery as "elective", which to me would be more like a face lift!, I knew it was actually a required surgery. Since there is only elective and emergency, I was glad to go in as elective, but scared it would be an emergency if we didn't hurry up. Honestly, my imagination was much more "creative" than the actual surgery, which in the hands of a good surgical team seemed rather routine if exciting to them, like a really good day at the office when everyone is on the same page. I wish the very best for you, Erica. Eleanor

Linda Crawford  Just ran across this post sorry I 'm slow. Due to my RA causing blood clots out of the blue, I have been on Coumadin since I was 22 -- almost 50 years. Did take a brief break when I was pregnant. Yes it is a bit scary but totally manageable. I am Sita stubborn a just decided it would not define me or make my life less than it could be. I really haven't had any problems. I do have to go in at least once a month and have it checked -- little finger stick. I have had other surgeries and more than a few bumps and bruises. It just isn't that big of a deal -- easily managed.