Fred's Posts

About 2 pm last May 4th ( 1 year ago today) I was wheeled back into pre-op at Cleveland Clinic for open heart surgery to replace my bicuspid aortic heart valve with severe aortic stenosis. I was not fearful at all because of my faith in God. I knew my life was in His hands, just like it was every other day of my life. I also knew I was at the top heart hospital in the country and had a very good surgeon (Dr. Tong) with a great staff. I did meditate on two specific bible passages: Psalm 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me and Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid? I had never thought I had been in the valley of the shadow of death, but how much closer can you get than to be dependent on a machine to keep you alive while others operate on you? That is pretty close in my book, although, probably not what David was thinking. I came through the surgery very well and had no major complications. Recovery was a test of my patience, but it went well except for me apparently sharing my driving wisdom with my wife from the back seat of the car as she drove me around. I think my biggest recovery issue was not being able to sleep on my stomach. I was able to drive and return to work at 8 weeks. However, I think it took 8-9 months before I felt I was back to normal - except my normal is much better than my pre-surgery normal. I am much less tired feeling and more active. I attended cardiac rehab and nutrition services at Wooster Hospital and learned a great deal. I am thankful for this web site and Adam's book. It helped to know what I was going to be facing. Thanks for everyone's support.