Good evening friends! It's been a while so I thought I'd give a quick update.
My surgery was on August 21, 2015 - some 2½ years ago. Since my last post ...Read more
Good evening friends! It's been a while so I thought I'd give a quick update.
My surgery was on August 21, 2015 - some 2½ years ago. Since my last post almost a year ago I've battled - and overcome - some unforeseen medical challenges that seemingly came out of nowhere.
In 2016 I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease and it continually worsened. In August 2017 I was diagnosed with Stage F3 Liver Fibrosis (NASH). So in October my PCP put me a very specialized diet in order to reverse the liver disease (it's reversible at Stage 3; Stage 4 is Cirrhosis, which is irreversible).
The kidney issues stemmed from repeated heart caths with dye, which damaged my kidneys (my cardiologist has forbidden me from having anymore tests with dyes - a word of caution!). The liver issue was exacerbated by excess weight & a sedentary lifestyle due to my cardiac issues. My PCP also diagnosed me with metabolic syndrome. All in all, last year everything came together in one perfect storm and hit me like a ton of bricks.
So, in October my wife and I accepted the challenge and radically changed my diet under strict doctor supervision. I am happy to report that since early November I have lost an additional 32 lbs (over 50 since surgery). My kidney disease has been reversed and is now normal. My Type 2 Diabetes has been reversed and my A1c is in normal range. I have stopped taking 1 of 2 meds for diabetes. All of the inflammation has gone and my legs and arms look like they did when I was in high school 40 years ago. And, most important, my liver enzymes are better and continue to improve, thus successfully reversing the liver fibrosis. My cholesterol levels have also finally come into normal/acceptable ranges.
My EF is 55-60 (from my last echo in January). My cardiac function is excellent, with only mild leakage, which is in an acceptable range. I can't tell you how much better I feel!
The only issue I'm now facing is ... rib dysfunction and thoracic spinal pain, most likely caused by the rib spreader used during OHS. I started physical therapy today for that, hoping to strengthen the tendons and ligaments in my back damaged by the rib spreader. It seems the weight loss caused the damage to be "revealed" (less fat to cover it up!) and thus cause pain no one has been able to diagnose (until now). This, too, shall pass!
This group has been an incredibly positive experience for me and I am eternally grateful I found it. I am indebted to Adam and his team for all they do on our behalf. I most likely won't be posting anymore, so that others more currently facing their heart valve challenges can share their stories in this space.
But I welcome contact from anyone here who rallied around me during my recovery! Feel free to stay in touch via my personal website - www.garystripling.com.
Love and prayers to you all,
Gary
Rita Savelis Thank you Gary for posting. I'm always glad to see news from the OHS class of 2015. I'm sorry about a ... Read more
Rita Savelis Thank you Gary for posting. I'm always glad to see news from the OHS class of 2015. I'm sorry about all that you've been through, but glad to see you are on the other side of some of it. You're amazing! Take care.
Shannon Gray Excellent news!!! You really have faced so much, but proud of all of your hard work!
Marie Myers Congratulations on the weight loss and reversal of the liver and kidney issues. Good job!
Peggy Whitecotton thank you Gary for your post... I remember you well as your surgery was 3 days after mine, I followed ... Read more
Peggy Whitecotton thank you Gary for your post... I remember you well as your surgery was 3 days after mine, I followed your posts as we were both recovering at that time. It was your many posts and so many others like Popeye, Rita, Barbara, Alina, Wanda and so many others that help me so much during my recover. Many of us cried together prayed together and encouraged each other. Most of all thanks to Adam for creating this web site....
Gary Stripling Hey Peggy! Yes, we're family now after all we've been through together. I look back on those days imm ... Read more
Gary Stripling Hey Peggy! Yes, we're family now after all we've been through together. I look back on those days immediately after surgery and I can't believe all that happened. This community was a life-saver for me!
Kelly Weisgarber Glad to hear you’re doing so well! Keep up the good work (from another ohs class of 15 😊)
It's been a while since I last posted. The journey isn't over but it sure has gotten easier. Hopefully this will encourage those of you just starting your journey, ...Read more
It's been a while since I last posted. The journey isn't over but it sure has gotten easier. Hopefully this will encourage those of you just starting your journey, or those in the middle of it.
It started with a heart murmur that sounded raspy 7 years ago. That's when I saw a cardiologist for the first time who told me I had Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction with Systolic Anterior Motion. The nursing students crowded the echocardiogram room because I'm supposedly a textbook rarity. But I survived.
Three years later, in my front yard trimming bushes, I collapsed with complete heart block. Grade 3 they called it. The EMT gave me 3 doses of Atropine to keep me alive on the way to the hospital. That night I was put on an external pacemaker & I received my permanent pacemaker the next afternoon. But I survived.
Three months later an MRI revealed moderate mitral valve regurgitation & hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. My meds were increased. But I survived.
Six months later, after trying to convince myself I would not ever have heart surgery, my cardiologist said the regurgitation was now severe and it was time. But I survived.
In early August 2015 my wife & I met with the cardiovascular surgeon who explained everything & said without the surgery I'd be dead in 2-5 years. We set the date and cried on the 3-hour drive home. But we survived.
On August 21, 2015 my family & I walked into Florida Hospital Orlando at 5am. By 7pm that evening I had endured over 6 hours of open heart surgery, 2 of those clinically dead on the heart/lung machine. They repaired my mitral valve, closed the PFO, & resected a large portion of my septum, including my AV Node, which left me 100% pacemaker dependent (ventricular). But I survived.
Three days later I was back in surgery to repair my pacemaker's atrial lead that had come loose during the heart surgery. But I survived.
Three months later the lead came loose again & the tip was barely touching a nerve running through my chest & stomach. I had weird abdominal pacing. My belly bounced with every heartbeat so the EP turned off the atrial lead. But I survived.
A month later I started cardiac rehab but I could hardly breathe and my heart rate was sporadically racing. I was in AFlutter. I stopped rehab. But I survived.
In early December I had cardioversion that put me in sinus rhythm for 3 weeks so I could get through Christmas and I survived.
On New Years Eve 2015 I was back in the hospital to have the atrial lead replaced once again and during pre-op they discovered I was in AFib. So I had atrial ablation plus the lead replacement surgery. I watched the fireworks from my hospital room that night. But I survived.
In February 2016 I resumed cardiac rehab & had completed all 36 sessions by late April.
I survived the heart surgeries which led to debilitating pump head, horrible depression, caused me to develop Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease, significant Vestibular Dysfunction, and now I battle mild pulmonary restriction. At 58 years old.
My story is not unique. But like you all I survived. We survived. And life has meaning and purpose which we seek to fulfill. Don't ever let anyone diminish what you've gone through - or are going through now.
Because you - and I - survived what most people will never experience & cannot understand. And we have the battle scars to prove it.
Rita Savelis Lovely post Gary, as always. Thanks for sharing so honestly.
It is good to be at an easier part of th ... Read more
Rita Savelis Lovely post Gary, as always. Thanks for sharing so honestly.
It is good to be at an easier part of the journey, a journey that never really ends.
One can look back and think, geez, I made it through some hard times.
Wishing you a smooth ride as you approach anniversary #2. Take care.
Michael Carbone You my friend are a true inspiration! What you have. Een through is remarkable. I an so glad to hear ... Read more
Michael Carbone You my friend are a true inspiration! What you have. Een through is remarkable. I an so glad to hear u graduater rehab and rustvyou are doing good now. It soubds kike you coukd almost be a cardiologst after all u have learned. I will take courage from your story as i face my own redo surgery in august. You are great. Keep fighting! Mike
Michael Carbone But I hope you get my sincere respect for your journey.
Civita Fahey Gary, that was beautiful.. keep up the good work in your recovery.. you are right only we understand ... Read more
Civita Fahey Gary, that was beautiful.. keep up the good work in your recovery.. you are right only we understand each other..
patricia ahern What a story! Hope life is getting easier for you. Thanks for sharing your story.
Cathy Burgess Wow,gary! Reading your story makes me feel a little bit ashamed of myself for being a wimp. I don't k ... Read more
Cathy Burgess Wow,gary! Reading your story makes me feel a little bit ashamed of myself for being a wimp. I don't know that I could go through all that. But I think I could if I have to. I wish you a long and happy life! Thanks for sharing your story. I think it was just what I needed to see today.
Ben Hyman Wow...that puts everyting into perspective. I had a stroke this week, a bit over 2 months since my r ... Read more
Ben Hyman Wow...that puts everyting into perspective. I had a stroke this week, a bit over 2 months since my robotic mitral valve repair at Mayo Rochester. I thoght I had it rough. Your experiences make my ordeal seem like a "walk in the park"
I'm kinda freaking out right now. I had OHS (full sternotomy) for MVR, septal resection for cardiomyopathy and PFO closure on 08/21/15. I'm also 100% pacemaker ...Read more
I'm kinda freaking out right now. I had OHS (full sternotomy) for MVR, septal resection for cardiomyopathy and PFO closure on 08/21/15. I'm also 100% pacemaker dependent.
Lately I've had shortness of breath, chest tightness, fatigue - the symptoms I had prior to surgery. Today I saw my cardiologist and he thinks it could be diastolic heart failure from a stiff heart. My right atrial pressure is elevated and I'm carrying fluid. So I had an echocardiogram today and had labs drawn this morning.
After the echo the Tech would only say my gradient is a little higher than my last echo 3 months ago. Not sure what that means. My cardiologist started Lasix & potassium today for 3 days. I also have Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease, so they're watching how the Lasix and potassium affects my kidneys as well.
I'm supposed to travel from the US to Eastern Europe in a month on business and I'm very nervous now about this trip, not to mention the prognosis possibilities. I meet with the doc on Tuesday to review the test results. Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated once again.
Matthew Russo Hi Gary, sorry to hear you appear to have hit a small hurdle in your recovery. Hopefully the news on ... Read more
Matthew Russo Hi Gary, sorry to hear you appear to have hit a small hurdle in your recovery. Hopefully the news on Tuesday will be positive and give you some direction for resolution. Thoughts and prayers coming your way mate. Keep us updated.
Civita Fahey Prayers that this is just a small hurdle to get over Gary.
Phyllis Petersen Thoughts and prayers are with you as you handle this setback.
Gary Stripling UPDATE: last night my heart rate spiked. I felt awful so I texted my cardiologist who told me to stop ... Read more
Gary Stripling UPDATE: last night my heart rate spiked. I felt awful so I texted my cardiologist who told me to stop the Lasix & potassium because I had gotten dehydrated. Still symptomatic today so looking forward to Tuesday's appointment.
Phyllis Petersen I hope they can get this under control quickly.
Michael Carbone Sending u positive thoughts and my prayers!! You will be good i just feel it. You have come a long wa ... Read more
Michael Carbone Sending u positive thoughts and my prayers!! You will be good i just feel it. You have come a long way. Enjoy you trip
Just a quick update: had my 3-month follow-up today (I'm on an every 3-month cardiac follow-up since OHS on 08/21/15). The only concern my cardiologist has ...Read more
Just a quick update: had my 3-month follow-up today (I'm on an every 3-month cardiac follow-up since OHS on 08/21/15). The only concern my cardiologist has is that I'm retaining fluid, most likely due to the Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease. So he, my nephrologist and endocrinologist are coordinating efforts to keep my kidneys functioning by prescribing the right meds. As he told me, "you don't die from fluid retention, but you can die from kidney failure."
He increased my Coreg from the minimum of 3.125mg/2X daily to 6.25mg/2X daily to "keep my heart function stable" even tho I have a strong heart. Does this make sense to anyone?
I'll have an echo in 6 months to check the mitral valve repair, septum resection and gradient.
I did ask about the wires I am feeling in one particular spot (top right of the septum). He advised against doing anything unless I just couldn't live with it anymore. He said it's very invasive and my cardiovascular surgeon (in another city) would be the only one who would tackle removing them. So they're staying put!
Overall, he was pleased with my recovery and I'll see him again in 3 months as they monitor my kidneys. Interesting how one med for one condition affects so many others!
Hello friends. It's been a while since I posted. Life has a way of resuming, whether we want it to or not.
My last heart surgery (after the "big" surgery ...Read more
Hello friends. It's been a while since I posted. Life has a way of resuming, whether we want it to or not.
My last heart surgery (after the "big" surgery on August 21, 2015) was on New Year's Eve 2015. I completed my 36 sessions of cardiac rehab last April. I began rebuilding my business clientele (I took 6 months off work since I'm self-employed) and started traveling again as a consultant.
Ever since the OHS on 08/21/15 I have experienced ongoing dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, balance challenges, and on some occasions near-syncope (almost fainting). I kept thinking this would eventually subside and go away as I recovered from the OHS. It never did.
This past August I had a bad case of vertigo which lasted about 10 days. I've had vertigo over the years, but usually for only 1-2 days at the most. This episode was really bad.
In September I finally was referred to a neurologist after my cardiologist completed a full work-up and declared me free of any cardiological issues. The MV repair surgery was a success, recovery pretty much complete, and rehab extremely valuable. Other than sternum aches every now and then, I've felt great. Now if I could just get rid of this dizziness & headache!
The neurologist had me do a balance test in his office, as well as ordered a CT Scan. I failed the balance test and the CT Scan came back negative.
So, in late November I was diagnosed with significant Vestibular Dysfunction Disorder. Now my headaches, dizziness, and feeling light-headed had a name. I began Vestibular Rehab Balance Therapy (VRT) in early December twice weekly.
Today, I had my 1-month re-evaluation and I have improved significantly! No more vertigo. Headaches are fewer, dizziness is better and I'm not light-headed as much. I just have to learn how to adjust to my surroundings. If you visit http://vestibular.org you can read all about it.
What has this to do with my heart valve surgery? My neurologist and balance therapist both believe the significant time under anesthesia and the invasive nature of open heart surgery caused my vestibular dysfunction. And it wasn't going away on its on.
So I encourage everyone not to ignore symptoms you think may or may not be a direct result of your surgery. So much is done to us while we're on the heart/lung machine, during the surgery, etc. that sometimes it takes a while for the cause & effect of certain symptoms to manifest.
I have 4 weeks of balance therapy left and have exercises I work on daily. Dizziness and imbalance issues for open heart surgery patients is real and there is help for it!
Happy New Years everyone - it's going to be a great year!
You aren't alone! 69 million Americans suffer from dizziness or imbalance. Click here for more information on help that is available to you.
Robert Osmachenko Thanks for sharing that info. I get dizzy at times and google eyes as well and it hasn't really gone ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko Thanks for sharing that info. I get dizzy at times and google eyes as well and it hasn't really gone away... perhaps this may help.
Be a good boy, talk soon.
Rita Savelis Thanks for sharing, Gary. There are definitely other problems that can/do arise because of OHS. I'm ... Read more
Rita Savelis Thanks for sharing, Gary. There are definitely other problems that can/do arise because of OHS. I'm glad you found an answer for and some help for your problems.
It's hard when cardiologist declare us free of cardiology issues, but other "issues" arise....
Take care and all the best for 2017!
roseline hartmann I had my ears ringing and some hearing loss but subsided as the after a few days. Glad you are gettin ... Read more
roseline hartmann I had my ears ringing and some hearing loss but subsided as the after a few days. Glad you are getting better. God is good!
Steven A Husted i had a friend who had balance problems after ohs also but it cleared up for him
Jackie Owens I've been diagnosed with the same problem. I'm also 16 months post op and struggle with vertigo issu ... Read more
Jackie Owens I've been diagnosed with the same problem. I'm also 16 months post op and struggle with vertigo issues. My neurologist called it Vestibular Migraine Disorder with Vertigo. I also saw a Pain Specialist for the headaches and he said he researched the effects of long term exposure to the heart lung machine or in his words "pump brain". I am in therapy, but at times still have problems focusing on activities and sometimes can't get my eyes to focus if I move my head. I get headaches and then feel like I'm spinning and falling. Ugh! I'm hoping this continues to improve with more therapy and time.
As I posted earlier, I started having symptoms similar to those I had before OHS (fatigue, shortness of breath, slight swelling in ankles). I had an echocardiogram ...Read more
As I posted earlier, I started having symptoms similar to those I had before OHS (fatigue, shortness of breath, slight swelling in ankles). I had an echocardiogram yesterday (9/19) and today met with my cardiologist.
Good news! My EF is 60-65%. The MVR is holding nicely and my heart is doing great! Seems I have a bit of "stiff heart" - diastolic dysfunction (see http://www.healthcentral.com/heart-disease/ask-doctor-44701-70.html for info). I'm also anemic due to Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease (recent diagnosis) and started on iron last week.
But overall, I have no limitations on exercise, so it's back to the gym for me so I can continue to lose weight (I've gained back about 5 of the 24 lbs I lost after OHS last year). What a relief to know my heart is functioning as it should and no more valve issues. Thanks for the thoughts and prayers!
Get detailed information on heart disease. Site offers latest news and expert advice on heart disease symptoms, treatment, and prevention - Learn what role cholesterol plays in heart disease?
As I posted earlier, I started having symptoms similar to those I had before OHS (fatigue, shortness of breath, slight swelling in ankles). I had an echocardiogram ...Read more
As I posted earlier, I started having symptoms similar to those I had before OHS (fatigue, shortness of breath, slight swelling in ankles). I had an echocardiogram yesterday (9/19) and today met with my cardiologist.
Good news! My EF is 60-65%. The MVR is holding nicely and my heart is doing great! Seems I have a bit of "stiff heart" - diastolic dysfunction (see http://www.healthcentral.com/heart-disease/ask-doctor-44701-70.html for info). I'm also anemic due to Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease (recent diagnosis) and started on iron last week.
But overall, I have no limitations on exercise, so it's back to the gym for me so I can continue to lose weight (I've gained back about 5 of the 24 lbs I lost after OHS last year). What a relief to know my heart is functioning as it should and no more valve issues. Thanks for the thoughts and prayers!
Get detailed information on heart disease. Site offers latest news and expert advice on heart disease symptoms, treatment, and prevention - Learn what role cholesterol plays in heart disease?
As I posted earlier, I started having symptoms similar to those I had before OHS (fatigue, shortness of breath, slight swelling in ankles). I had an echocardiogram ...Read more
As I posted earlier, I started having symptoms similar to those I had before OHS (fatigue, shortness of breath, slight swelling in ankles). I had an echocardiogram yesterday (9/19) and today met with my cardiologist.
Good news! My EF is 60-65%. The MVR is holding nicely and my heart is doing great! Seems I have a bit of "stiff heart" - diastolic dysfunction (see http://www.healthcentral.com/heart-disease/ask-doctor-44701-70.html for info). I'm also anemic due to Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease (recent diagnosis) and started on iron last week.
But overall, I have no limitations on exercise, so it's back to the gym for me so I can continue to lose weight (I've gained back about 5 of the 24 lbs I lost after OHS last year). What a relief to know my heart is functioning as it should and no more valve issues. Thanks for the thoughts and prayers!
Get detailed information on heart disease. Site offers latest news and expert advice on heart disease symptoms, treatment, and prevention - Learn what role cholesterol plays in heart disease?
My cardiologist has me scheduled for an "unscheduled" echocardiogram on Monday & he wants to see me on Tuesday. I'm having shortness of breath, no energy & ...Read more
My cardiologist has me scheduled for an "unscheduled" echocardiogram on Monday & he wants to see me on Tuesday. I'm having shortness of breath, no energy & tightness in my chest. Praying the "slight" aortic regurgitation he detected earlier this year hasn't progressed. The thought of another OHS terrifies me. Hopefully it's just a medication adjustment.
Wanda Mroz I hear you Gary ...l keeping you in my prayers that all is well. 🙏🏻💞
Clare Auten I read your story. You have been through so much. I hope a medication adjustment does the trick. Pray ... Read more
Clare Auten I read your story. You have been through so much. I hope a medication adjustment does the trick. Prayers and best wishes.
Shannon Gray Thinking of you Gary! Prayers it can easily be adjusted and another OHS is not even a thought.
Kate Watson Thinking of you, Gary. I can't imagine how scary that would be after already getting through OHS, bu ... Read more
Kate Watson Thinking of you, Gary. I can't imagine how scary that would be after already getting through OHS, but try not to get ahead of yourself and stay in the moment. Please keep us posted!
My One-Year OHS Anniversary was on 8/21 - about 3 weeks ago. So today, at the urging of my son, I joined a gym! I had already completed 36 weeks of cardiac ...Read more
My One-Year OHS Anniversary was on 8/21 - about 3 weeks ago. So today, at the urging of my son, I joined a gym! I had already completed 36 weeks of cardiac rehab in April, but really wanted to continue moving forward with my recovery.
Plus, today my endocrinologist told me I'm anemic, probably due to the "acute renal episode" I recently had (laser lithotripsy for kidney stones - I'm at Stage 3a Chronic Kidney Failure), as well as the ongoing recovery from everything cardiac-related. No wonder I'm so tired all the time!
Since I'm 100% PM dependent, my cardiologist set my heart rate goal of 120 on the treadmill. I got to 110 today! For anyone 1 year or more post-OHS, what exercise heart rate have you been told to shoot for?
Wanda Mroz Before flutter I was always told to shoot for at least 20 HR higher than resting.
Eight days ago, on August 21, 2016, I celebrated One Year of Survival from Open Heart Surgery (yes, I'm a little late on this post)! The road to recovery is ...Read more
Eight days ago, on August 21, 2016, I celebrated One Year of Survival from Open Heart Surgery (yes, I'm a little late on this post)! The road to recovery is a long, arduous journey but with the support, love and help from my family and amazing medical team - and the encouragement and support from this community - I have made that journey successfully.
I can't thank enough my Jacksonville, FL-based cardiologist Dr. Sumant Lamba, my Orlando-based cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Tom Martin and the wonderful healthcare professionals at Jacksonville Clinic & First Coast Cardiovascular Institute, Florida Hospital Orlando (for the BIG surgery), and Jacksonville, FL hospitals Memorial Heart Center, St. Vincent's Medical Center Riverside and Orange Park Medical Center (between the post-surgery testing, cardioversion, atrial ablation, & pacemaker surgeries, I got to spend time at all these wonderful facilities!).
I was so blessed that my family (children, sisters & dad) made the trip to Orlando to be with us during the week of my surgery. It was such a blessing that my wife's best friend from high school offered the use of their 3-bedroom vacation condo in Disney Village for 10 days free of charge! Everybody had someplace to sleep and it was a ground-floor handicapped unit, which was so cool since we stayed there for 2 days after I was discharged from the hospital before driving home to Jax.
The biggest blessing in my life - after my relationship with Jesus - is that my wife and children have been so supportive and diligent in their care for me during my recovery. It's been an adventurous year - one I don't want to repeat - but I'm looking forward to many years to come in better cardiac health than I've been in the past 6 years!
I'm still recovering mentally & emotionally, as well as dealing now with kidney issues brought about in large part from the damage caused by the contrast dyes used in numerous heart caths. Word to the wise - if you're diabetic be sure to limit the number of heart catherizations with contrast (dye) your cardiologist orders. It WILL damage your kidneys. If you have to have one, check with your nephrologist first so he/she can prep you with lots of fluids to flush out the dye and not damage the kidneys.
I can't believe how much better I feel and can do now that my ticker is fixed! Instead of 5-6 years left I have a normal life-expectancy. And that, my friends, makes it all worth it!
Roni Reinhold Had my pro-op today. I arrived at 7:30 am and was there till 3:30pm. I met the surgeon (Dr. DUNCAN) ... Read more
Roni Reinhold Had my pro-op today. I arrived at 7:30 am and was there till 3:30pm. I met the surgeon (Dr. DUNCAN) along with the cardiologist and anesthesiologist. Each and everyone of them took their time reviewing my medical history. I'm having a Cath tomorrow and will be admitted right after it. Every nurse, sectratary,lab rec. and receptionist has treated me like I was their only patient. The Texas medical complex is a city in itself. I don't know how they have the time or patience to treat us so well. I would reccomend this place to everyone. I'll try and my progress updated as much as I can.
Roni
Robert Osmachenko Thanks for the update. I'm glad you were well supported by family and your medical support team. Ha ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko Thanks for the update. I'm glad you were well supported by family and your medical support team. Happy for you!
Thanks for the info on dyes and kidney damage, will factor this in to any further treatment(s).
Before my surgery, my doctor figured I would lose quality of life in about two years or so. Just think... it wasn't long ago that surgeries of this type were rare or unheard of. Thanks be to God!
Peggy Whitecotton My surgeon prefers to wait 5 to 7 days after a heart cath to do OHS because the dye is so hard on the ... Read more
Peggy Whitecotton My surgeon prefers to wait 5 to 7 days after a heart cath to do OHS because the dye is so hard on the kidneys. It takes that long to clear out all the dye. He said it gives a better recovery after surgery. Although he has operated right after a heart cath but doesn't like too.
Corey Sines great info on the kidneys. Happy Anniversary!
Steven A Husted YES GREAT INFO ON THE DYES AND KIDNEYS I AM ALLERGIC TO DYES SO THEY GAVE ME EXTRA MEDS TO COUNTER AC ... Read more
Steven A Husted YES GREAT INFO ON THE DYES AND KIDNEYS I AM ALLERGIC TO DYES SO THEY GAVE ME EXTRA MEDS TO COUNTER ACT THE DYES IT IS BEST TO LET THE DOCTORS KNOW ABOUT THESE THINGS BEFORE SURGERY
Craig Gay Craig has stage 3 kidney disease caused from being on Gentomycin (antibiotic) for 8 months last year ... Read more
Craig Gay Craig has stage 3 kidney disease caused from being on Gentomycin (antibiotic) for 8 months last year for sepsis and endocarditis. Because of the kidney issue, he has to have 6 hrs of hydration before any test (such as a CT) and 6 hrs of hydration after the test. He had pneumonia two months ago and a chest CT took 13 hrs from start to finish. Like his nephrologist says, we have to save those kidneys so we do what we have to. Congratulations on your one year anniversary. Yvonne (Craig's wife)
Gary Stripling Yvonne - I completely understand! I was recently diagnosed with Stage 3a Chronic Kidney Disease. When ... Read more
Gary Stripling Yvonne - I completely understand! I was recently diagnosed with Stage 3a Chronic Kidney Disease. When my nephrologist told me earlier this week it was most likely caused by the combination of my diabetes (which is completely under control) plus the multiple heart caths and dyes used in those procedures, I was completely floored. Didn't see that coming!
As I approach the 1-year anniversary of my open heart surgery for MVR, PFO closure & septal resection I had on 8/21/15, I want to encourage those facing OHS ...Read more
As I approach the 1-year anniversary of my open heart surgery for MVR, PFO closure & septal resection I had on 8/21/15, I want to encourage those facing OHS or any kind of heart surgery to document your experience with photos & journaling.
The surgery is a major part of the experience but it's not the entire journey. I wish I had pics of those first few weeks after surgery. Fortunately my wife has a great memory & doesn't mind recounting to me what she & the family went thru while I was in surgery - clinically dead while on the H/L machine for 2 of those 6 hours.
I recommend an app called Day One for personal journaling. In addition, I posted regularly for 6 or so months in my profile here.
Recovery is a process. For some it's shorter than others. But the journey changes us forever & documenting it is both therapeutic & informative for our loved ones.
Prayers & best wishes for those about to take the next step with OHS & those already on your journey!
Complete educational resource and community for patients needing heart valve surgery.
Barbara Laurie Hiya Gary!😄 Good to hear from you. I get you. I have little memory of my time for many weeks. Dave ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Hiya Gary!😄 Good to hear from you. I get you. I have little memory of my time for many weeks. Dave took several pictures, kept a written journal AND typed here often.
Reading everyone's encouraging replies have really helped, and seeing the pics jogs Dave's memories about what happened too. I saw pics today I never saw before., I cried... A lot! But I find I feel more myself, less fuzzy when Dave and I go over all the events. Thanks Gary. 💕❤️💕
Rita Savelis Hi Gary, Nice to see an update from you. I hear you.
Writing was an important process for me. Not qu ... Read more
Rita Savelis Hi Gary, Nice to see an update from you. I hear you.
Writing was an important process for me. Not quick updates immediately after OHS (I didn't do that, coudn't do that), but an account of my first hospital stay (4 weeks) and all that I remembered.
I wrote that essay slowly, in hospital, weeks after OHS. The writing was for myself, in order to put it all down on paper rather than keep it inside somewhere as a repressed memory.
And now, 16 months later, I am writing accounts of various parts of recovery (ICU, pacemaker insertion, etc.). These accounts are different from what I wrote weeks after OHS.
Like you, I encourage everyone to write their story and with as much honesty as possible. Every experience is real and significant. There is positive and negative and it is all valid.
Take care, Gary.
Robert Osmachenko Hey Gary. This experience is really difficult on your spouse and family members and much more so tha ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko Hey Gary. This experience is really difficult on your spouse and family members and much more so than we think. My wife has a good memory too. The journey is a "game changer" isn't it?
Keep on rockin!!
Rita Savelis Yes, I agree -it's important to hear your spouse's experience (when you feel well enough!) . At the t ... Read more
Rita Savelis Yes, I agree -it's important to hear your spouse's experience (when you feel well enough!) . At the time it is hard to put yourself in their place and in many ways their experience can be more difficult.
Going through OHS made me realise what my family went through when I had cancer as an adolescent. Sometimes one is so centered on oneself that it is hard to comprehend how the people around you suffer in a different way.
Take care everyone.
Nicola Laker I wish my husband had taken photos of my journey but he was on such a state he didn't think too. The ... Read more
Nicola Laker I wish my husband had taken photos of my journey but he was on such a state he didn't think too. The only time he wanted to was when they first took me to ICU and he said my entire body was swollen and my face was like a football. I actually wanted to have seen that! He hasn't told me much and I don't push him as I think it's taken a lot out of him. We are going to see the Critical Care Consultant and other Dr's, psychologists, physiotherapists etc next month to discuss the surgery and he said he would take me back to icu and discuss what I went through and all the machinery they used to make me well. Hoping that will piece together the missing weeks and give me an understanding of what I was really seeing and which were hallucinations! Not sure how I will cope walking in there but going to give it a try. X
Peggy Whitecotton Good to To see an update from you... I always enjoyed reading your posts
Steven A Husted great to hear from you glad you are doing fine
Just 2 days short of 10 months since OHS (mitral valve repair, PFO closure & septal resection) and ... I mowed the lawn today! It was both refreshing (beautiful ...Read more
Just 2 days short of 10 months since OHS (mitral valve repair, PFO closure & septal resection) and ... I mowed the lawn today! It was both refreshing (beautiful windy Florida day) and tiring. The last time I did yard work I collapsed in the front yard with complete heart block. But thanks to my amazing cardiologists & 36 sessions of cardiac rehab I feel like a bionic man (well almost). Hurray for a small accomplishment today!
Yesterday - 9 months post OHS - I had an endoscopy. Since the surgery last August my IBS has gotten worse and my hiatal hernia really aches.
After my wife ...Read more
Yesterday - 9 months post OHS - I had an endoscopy. Since the surgery last August my IBS has gotten worse and my hiatal hernia really aches.
After my wife got me home my chest starting hurting, was tight, and I had abdominal pain. I called the doctor who performed the endoscopy and he said it was probably spasms from the biopsies he took of the lining inside my stomach. Man, did that hurt!
Today I've felt much better - almost "normal" (whatever that is). Here's my question: is it possible to exacerbate a hiatal hernia when you have a full sternotomy? The endo didn't show any problems there, except noting "a 1cm hiatus hernia present."
Nine months ago today - 8/21/15 - my family and I walked into Florida Hospital Orlando at 5:30 AM for my OHS. After six hours of surgery I was in recovery that ...Read more
Nine months ago today - 8/21/15 - my family and I walked into Florida Hospital Orlando at 5:30 AM for my OHS. After six hours of surgery I was in recovery that evening, having had a mitral valve repair (with a 30mm annuloplasty), septal resection and PFO closure. During the surgery my pacemaker's atrial lead came dislodged, so 3 days later I was back in surgery for that.
It's so hard to describe what the past 9 months has been like, as well as how going thru something like this changes you in so many ways - things the healthcare pros don't tell you about. Most of you reading this will know what I'm talking about.
I'm so grateful for the superb care I have received from my doctors, nurses, rehab folks, etc. these past 9 months. I'm stronger now than I have been in years. God is faithful and He is my Healer!
Denise Campbell Hi Gary. Do you have a pacemaker. I had one in the hospital, I guess everyone does during he sur ... Read more
Denise Campbell Hi Gary. Do you have a pacemaker. I had one in the hospital, I guess everyone does during he surgery. They took it out but left the wires in. Sometimes they poke me.
Gary Stripling Hey Denise. Yes, I collapsed in my front yard in October 2014 with complete (Grade 3) Heart Block. Se ... Read more
Gary Stripling Hey Denise. Yes, I collapsed in my front yard in October 2014 with complete (Grade 3) Heart Block. Seems the amiodarone I was on for a while damaged my AV node. So I've been on a pacemaker since then. When they resected my septum during OHS last August the AV node was removed as well. So I'm 100% pacemaker dependent. During OHS I was on an external pacer with the wires coming out of my belly. The day I was discharged the surgeon's PA gently pushed my stomach in, clipped both wires and what was left receded into my stomach. Since they are attached to heart muscle they didn't want to pull them out and risk taking tissue with them. So they're still there but I can't tell. The PA said if I continue to lose weight (24 lbs and counting!) I "may" eventually feel them. But for now they're not a problem.
Joanna Prisiajniouk Hi Gary, I'm really confused as to what they do with the pacemaker after surgery. Did they decide yo ... Read more
Joanna Prisiajniouk Hi Gary, I'm really confused as to what they do with the pacemaker after surgery. Did they decide you needed to have one permanently? It is supposed to be removed after 4 days I heard if all is OK. Also, how many surgeons explain that the surgery itself sometimes damages our own natural heart's pacemaker while replacing the aortic or mitral valve. Sorry to mention this but it worries me and I heard this is a 3-5% chance mostly with the elderly with health issues as well.
Peggy Whitecotton I had pacemaker wires coming out of my heart after surgery and they were connected to a portable pace ... Read more
Peggy Whitecotton I had pacemaker wires coming out of my heart after surgery and they were connected to a portable pacemaker but not was not turned on. Just there if needed. Sometimes your heart can go into Afib. That way they don't have to take you back to surgery. The wires were pulled out the day I was discharged. Funny I didn't know I even had them until about the 3rd day as I had so many wires and 3 chest tubes.
Wanda Mroz Congrats Gary. I agree this changes your outlook in so many ways... Glad you are doing well.
Petey Bello Glad you are doing well & I can't believe 9 months has gone by already. I remember when you went in f ... Read more
Petey Bello Glad you are doing well & I can't believe 9 months has gone by already. I remember when you went in for surgery. Congratulations! I do agree, this experience does change you for life!
Gary Stripling Hi Joanna - I had a permanent pacemaker implanted BEFORE I had the OHS (about a year before). But I w ... Read more
Gary Stripling Hi Joanna - I had a permanent pacemaker implanted BEFORE I had the OHS (about a year before). But I was only dependent 40-60% of the time. For the OHS they connected me to an external pacer with the wires coming out of my belly and turned off my permanent pacer while I was in the hospital. Before I was discharged (that day, actually), the MedTronic tech came in and fine-tuned my permanent pacer when they disconnected me from the external pacer. My postoperative diagnosis was "heart failure with high gradient across the LV outflow tract due to hypertrophic septum, along with systolic anterior motion (SAM) of the mitral valve causing mitral insufficiency."
I was diagnosed with "Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction with SAM" about 4 years ago and it was just a matter of time before it needed to be addressed surgically.
So they went in knowing my septum was too thick and would most likely (did) need thinning so the mitral valve could function properly. I was already on a pacemaker due to the Grade 3 AV Block from 2014, so when they resected the septum they pretty much knew they were taking out the AV node, rendering me 100% PM dependent.
Robert Osmachenko I'm glad you are doing it well. I do know what you're talking about and have a pacer myself although ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko I'm glad you are doing it well. I do know what you're talking about and have a pacer myself although for a different reason per Joanna's comments. I'll probably have it for life. Keep on rockin!
Rita Savelis To answer Joanna's question with my experience, One usually has an "external" temporary pacemaker aft ... Read more
Rita Savelis To answer Joanna's question with my experience, One usually has an "external" temporary pacemaker after OHS while doctors wait to see that your heart's electrical system works as normal and then you are removed from that external temporary pacemaker. In my case my heart was beating too slowly and the hospital cardiologist waited about 10 days (I stayed in hospital) to see if my heart would go back to a normal rate (this happens). When it didn't, I had surgery to implant an internal permanent pacemaker. I later learned that this happens in a certain percentage of cases (3 to 5% like you said). I had no idea that this "side effect" existed before going in to surgery and it was a letdown/trauma for me. There is nothing really difficult about pacemaker surgery or wearing a pacemaker but I had a hard time (emotionally) getting used to it. Because I had several valves replaced and surgeons had to work on several parts of my heart (top and bottom) there was more of a chance that the "electrical lines" (they are invisible) would be damaged, I later learned. However there was no indication that I would need one before I went into OHS surgery. I had a large pacemaker implanted (they last a bit longer - 15 years?) and it is a strange bulge in my upper left chest that I have to get used to. It is not painful and I forget I have it except when I look in the mirror or reach my hand up to touch it.
Denise Campbell Thanks Gary and everyone. I wasn't sure if leaving the temporary pacemaker wires in was normal but ... Read more
Denise Campbell Thanks Gary and everyone. I wasn't sure if leaving the temporary pacemaker wires in was normal but I gather it is. Happy anniversary.
Kate Watson Scary that amiodorone can do that! I was on it for post surgical afib for just a few weeks and am ho ... Read more
Kate Watson Scary that amiodorone can do that! I was on it for post surgical afib for just a few weeks and am hoping I can stay off of it. It works well but has so many dangerous side effects. I totally understand what you mean about how this experience changes you. I'm not sure I'll ever be the same, but I think it's a good thing. Great to hear how well you are doing! Keep up the good work.
Peggy Whitecotton Gary I had my surgery in August too mine was the 18th and yours the 21st. I had the aortic valve repl ... Read more
Peggy Whitecotton Gary I had my surgery in August too mine was the 18th and yours the 21st. I had the aortic valve replaced with a bovine tissue. You are so right about heart surgery changing you, it really does. I am not the same person. I find myself talking a lot about my surgery and recovery and the changes that have taken place to my family and friends, but I can tell they don't understand my need to talk about it and are tired of hearing about it. Thats why I keep coming to this web site to read your experiences. Does anyone else feel this way or is it just me
Gary Stripling Peggy - I totally get it. My wife & I were discussing the actual surgery the other night & she said i ... Read more
Gary Stripling Peggy - I totally get it. My wife & I were discussing the actual surgery the other night & she said it's surreal, like "did we really go thru all of that?" She's so patient with me wanting to talk about it. But my other family & friends have moved on. It's hard to put into words. I find myself trying to put it out of my mind but then I realize how I feel (better or tired or frustrated, depending on the day) and I'm reminded of this life-changing event I experienced. I recently saw an educational video about MVR & the narrator said "when your heart stops beating you're clinically dead." I thought, "okay, I've been there but now I'm alive." Very sobering thought. Makes me look at life so much differently now, without trying to be too introspective.
Rita Savelis I find that writing when one can't talk is helpful. Also a therapist can help, someone outside your c ... Read more
Rita Savelis I find that writing when one can't talk is helpful. Also a therapist can help, someone outside your circle, who is non-judgemental but guides one in the making sense of the chaos that is recovery and acceptance of a new reality. In any case, it all takes time and one can't try too hard to make recovery happen faster or to return to a past self. After physical trauma there is psychic trauma and it is helpful to express it sooner or later. I asked my cardiologist where the "cardio patient group sharing of story sessions" were and he had no answers. I do remember the older men at cardio rehab who would suddenly out of the blue share their intense stories when I happened to sit next to them. Everyone had such a need to validate what had happened.
Peggy Whitecotton Gary you are so right it was a life changing event (never be the same again) and even after 9 months ... Read more
Peggy Whitecotton Gary you are so right it was a life changing event (never be the same again) and even after 9 months post-op still find the need to talk about it, most of my friends are kind but I see it in their eyes and smiles, "there she goes again." My family doesn't want to hear about it anymore. I think they don't want to be reminded what they went through facing my surgery just glad it's over and Thankful I'm alive, they were so scared. I think it has something to do with the heart/bypass machine. My grand daughter works in the OR, says once you are connected there is no longer any blood pressure reading being showed on the monitors it has stopped...I think you are right, you are clinically dead when the heart stops beating. All I know Gary, is something happened during that time which is beyond our understanding and is a very sobering experience.
Wanda Mroz I'm so glad I'm not the only one feeling this way. It's been just over 9 months and there are days w ... Read more
Wanda Mroz I'm so glad I'm not the only one feeling this way. It's been just over 9 months and there are days when I just can't believe I got through all of that. To be clinically dead and brought back twice in my case during the same surgery. It is so surreal. And totally changes one's outlook. Outsiders do not really get it... That's why sharing here is such a great experience. 💞
I'm 9 mos. post-OHS. Recovery has been slow but steady. Completed rehab 3 weeks ago. Good report from cardiologist yesterday (see yesterday's post). However, ...Read more
I'm 9 mos. post-OHS. Recovery has been slow but steady. Completed rehab 3 weeks ago. Good report from cardiologist yesterday (see yesterday's post). However, lately I've been depressed & feeling like I'm on the edge of losing it. Today I had an emotional mini-meltdown. I'm an otherwise happily married man with grown children. Any other guys experience this? Should I tell my cardiologist?
Kelton Glewwe I think heart surgery does a lot to mess up your emotions and bring a little depression. Your not alo ... Read more
Kelton Glewwe I think heart surgery does a lot to mess up your emotions and bring a little depression. Your not alone. I'm just amazed we have the medical technology to survive and thrive our heart conditions. I just stay focused on the big picture and try not to sweat the small stuff.
Cathleen Weed I'm not a guy lol..but I've been there as have a lot of others on this site from what I've read. It h ... Read more
Cathleen Weed I'm not a guy lol..but I've been there as have a lot of others on this site from what I've read. It hits different people at different times...but I truly believe that it's inevitable...just a part of the recovery process at some point. It can happen a year later for some. I've seen it described as "feeling extra tired", others get "irritable", some "lose their appetite or libido or whatever" etc.....but it's almost always a bit of depression and people don't realize it. It's good that you are recognizing it. I remember sitting by my pool listening to sad love songs, eating chocolate, and crying like some scene out of a bad rom-com movie after my first OHS lol. This is one hell of a ride and I think it's only human to want to get off of the roller coaster and back to normal as soon as possible. Recovery takes longer than people realize and I think it's even tougher on guys who want to be strong and healthy again right away. This too shall pass :). Sounds like you are making good progress and have a great support system :). I like this quote: "Happiness is pretty simple: someone to love, something to do, and something to look forward to". I planned little getaways after my surgeries...even one night...just something...and I wrote in a journal (kind of like this site lol). Sending you happy thoughts and a big hug!
Robert Osmachenko Hey Gary. Yep, I have been through depression like symptoms and anger. I'm not sure what causes it ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko Hey Gary. Yep, I have been through depression like symptoms and anger. I'm not sure what causes it and I didn't feel it was over powering me but it simmered just below the surface. Also felt very emotional at times watching TV or talking to my wife about the surgery. A doctor friend of mine who had surgery like us chalked it up to the heart lung machine. It chews up hemoglobin and distorts the way the body functions until it(the body) slowly corrects itself. I'm coming on two years and feel pretty darn good w/o the aggravation of depressive symptoms and flashes of anger.
Eat whole foods with juicing and fibre. Lots of clean water w/o flouride.
I also did a herbal cleanse every 5 mos (felt great). Exercise, exercise!!
How is your iron level?
Some days it feels like you are losing ground but overall it is a net gain, keep moving.
Take care.
Maureen Breault I love the happiness quote! I'm 5 days out from surgery and look to this site for support; thank you! ... Read more
Maureen Breault I love the happiness quote! I'm 5 days out from surgery and look to this site for support; thank you!
Hello friends. Had a follow-up with my cardiologist today to review my latest echo. My EF is 60-65% with some mild regurgitation across all my valves, especially ...Read more
Hello friends. Had a follow-up with my cardiologist today to review my latest echo. My EF is 60-65% with some mild regurgitation across all my valves, especially the aortic valve. That will be monitored with 2X-year echocardiograms. My pacer is ticking along at 100% dependent and I'm still in sinus. He started me back on the Losartan since I'm diabetic. I'm almost 9 months post-OHS and doing so well I don't have to see him again for 6 months - HURRAH!
Finished up cardiac rehab today - 36 sessions since last October (with a long break for cardioversion, atrial ablation & atrial lead replacement surgery). Can't ...Read more
Finished up cardiac rehab today - 36 sessions since last October (with a long break for cardioversion, atrial ablation & atrial lead replacement surgery). Can't believe how much better I feel. Thankful for the nurses who monitored me & encouraged me to push through. Gonna be a great summer!
Eight months ago today - 08/21/15 - my wife, 2 children, and sisters walked into Florida Hospital Orlando at 5:30 AM not sure what the day would hold. After ...Read more
Eight months ago today - 08/21/15 - my wife, 2 children, and sisters walked into Florida Hospital Orlando at 5:30 AM not sure what the day would hold. After over 6 hours of open heart surgery I woke up with a repaired mitral valve, a resected septum, a PFO closure & 100% pacemaker dependent. In the following months I went into AFlutter, had cardioversion, went into AFib, then had atrial ablation and atrial pacemaker lead replacement surgery on New Year's Eve. Since then I've been in sinus rhythm and feeling better by the week!
As I'm in the music industry, a new Danny Gokey song "Tell Your Heart to Beat Again" so speaks to me as I have fought & survived this literal heart battle. I am slowly but surely getting stronger each day as I work back into a routine of serving others thru my agency. I still have pain & weakness I never imagined but I have only 2 more cardiac rehab sessions (out of 36), which has helped so much!
Thanks be to God for what He has brought us through! Enjoy this song from me to you.
http://youtu.be/azYK8I2uoog
Peggy Whitecotton The song "tell your heart to beat again" was such an inspiration to me and even more so after learnin ... Read more
Peggy Whitecotton The song "tell your heart to beat again" was such an inspiration to me and even more so after learning the story behind the song. There was a pastor who had a heart surgeon that attended his church, and was invited inside the OR to watch a surgery in progress. He saw the surgeon cut open the chest, placed the patient on the bypass machine then began to repair the heart. Everything seen to be going well until the patient was taken off the bypass and they couldn't get the heart to beat. After several attempts the surgeon got down on his knees removed his mask and said in the patient's ear, "this is your surgeon speaking I have fixed your heart, there is nothing wrong with your heart, so please tell your heart to beat again." Instantly her heart started beating. This story and song I felt so comforting to me as I was at death's doors as my heart had gone from severe to critical in the last few weeks before my surgery date. When my surgeon visited me in ICU he spoke these words to me, "I have fixed your heart valve and you did not die, I have given you a heart like you had when you were 19 and now the rest is up to you in how you take care of it"....So I tell my heart to beat again, yesterday is a closing door I don't live there anymore. ....
Emily Rowley You have come a long way Gary. Wow that is an amazing story Peggy, did the Pastor say a prayer in the ... Read more
Emily Rowley You have come a long way Gary. Wow that is an amazing story Peggy, did the Pastor say a prayer in the room to help? My first Surgeon told me he was talking to me and telling me what I had done when I was unconscious. Lovely song, when I listen to it I think I won't be on the same path as before my heart journey started. Its amazing God leads us onto different paths in life and who we meet like this beautiful community I would not had known without my heart condition. All the very best wishes to both of you. For me I have two songs which remind me of my heart and how precious life is. This is one. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Yza_ZYqRPXU
Adam Hills in Gordon St Tonight, Series 2 - Episode 5
Brian Stugart What a GREAT song! As I await my "turn", I have been very comforted by the words of Psalm 139: For Y ... Read more
Brian Stugart What a GREAT song! As I await my "turn", I have been very comforted by the words of Psalm 139: For You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well....How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand... He knows me, and thinks about me ALL the time! Are there better hands to be in than His?
Anne Walpole I had never heard "Tell your Heart to Beat Again" before. It is one of the most beautiful songs I hav ... Read more
Anne Walpole I had never heard "Tell your Heart to Beat Again" before. It is one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard!! Thank you so much for sharing it!!
Tracy Simmons tears in my eyes...beautiful song - thank you for sharing.
Tammy Pilcher Tears in my eyes, too... So beautiful! I read the story behind his song and was wondering if anyone ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Tears in my eyes, too... So beautiful! I read the story behind his song and was wondering if anyone knows which congenital heart defect his wife, Sophia Gokey, had. Thanks so much for sharing!
I'm 7 1/2 months post-OHS for MV repair, PFO closure and septal resection. I'm 100% pacemaker dependent. I should complete cardiac rehab in 2 weeks (delayed ...Read more
I'm 7 1/2 months post-OHS for MV repair, PFO closure and septal resection. I'm 100% pacemaker dependent. I should complete cardiac rehab in 2 weeks (delayed because of PM and AFib issues last fall). Question: I'm having a hard time staying on task and get easily overwhelmed juggling everything, whereas before surgery I did just fine. I'm 57 yrs old and own my business as a consultant in the music industry (travel 1-2 weekends/month, lots of details to manage). Short-term memory issues are worse now, too. Will this all get better or is this the new normal? My wife said to ask you guys. Comments?
Elaine Cutri I'm 11 months post op and I also have a PM (from 1993 surgery). I have to be careful not to over sche ... Read more
Elaine Cutri I'm 11 months post op and I also have a PM (from 1993 surgery). I have to be careful not to over schedule or I get overwhelmed. I also try to get everything thing written in my iPad calendar or notes. Somethings are easy to remember and it's getting much better, but some days my concentration is marginal. I make house calls to resolve IT/computer issues for individuals. Lately, it's getting easier. I think it will get better for you over time. Best wishes!
I had my follow-up echocardiogram last Monday - 7 months/7 days since OHS - and the test results are so good I don't have to see my cardiologist for another ...Read more
I had my follow-up echocardiogram last Monday - 7 months/7 days since OHS - and the test results are so good I don't have to see my cardiologist for another 6 weeks! Hurrah!
The 6-8 months prior to the 8/21/15 surgery were so bad I could barely function. Now I'm beginning to remember what it was like to feel "normal" before things went downhill. I have 8 more rehab sessions and I'm done with that as well! I can't stress enough how important the rehab is for a successful recovery.
I'm pushing 6+ hour work days now (I'm self-employed and work from home). Muscle soreness is not as bad but I still struggle with fatigue and some emotional ups and downs. But overall, I can't get over how much better I feel.
To all of you facing OHS, know that it DOES get better. Open Heart Surgery is NOT for wimps!
Robert Osmachenko Glad to hear that you can have some breathing space with the good news about your heart.
When you s ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko Glad to hear that you can have some breathing space with the good news about your heart.
When you send in your pacer transmission, don't they give you a report of how your heart is doing?
Be well, thanks for letting us know.
Gary Stripling Robert - I actually used the pacer transmission thingee for the first time a week ago. Wasn't feeling ... Read more
Gary Stripling Robert - I actually used the pacer transmission thingee for the first time a week ago. Wasn't feeling great (light-headed, weak) on a Saturday afternoon so I did a pacer transmission using my new digital wireless transmitter. Got a call the following Tuesday that the report was perfect - no issues, no irregularities. Of course, if I had gotten any worse my wife would have had me in the ER Saturday night.
Robert Osmachenko Good stuff. I've yet to try my new digital one but my next report is due in July and (knock on wood) ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko Good stuff. I've yet to try my new digital one but my next report is due in July and (knock on wood) I haven't had any Afib events.
Talk soon, be well.
Since my open heart surgery last August, I'm now 100% pacemaker dependent. When I first received the pacemaker in October 2014 my heart was contributing between ...Read more
Since my open heart surgery last August, I'm now 100% pacemaker dependent. When I first received the pacemaker in October 2014 my heart was contributing between 40-60%. Now the pacemaker does all the work, thanks to the septal resection during the OHS.
It's very sobering to realize that I'm dependent on a little device in my chest to keep me alive 24/7. Sometimes during the day, and especially at night, it hits me like a ton of bricks and my mortality sucker-punches me in the gut. At 57 years old I didn't expect to have to deal with something as life-altering as this.
But, after the 6-hour OHS last year (and subsequent cardioversion followed by an atrial ablation and 2 atrial lead replacement surgeries), nothing seems too insurmountable anymore on the one hand. Yet on the other hand I feel very vulnerable, even with a normal life expectancy.
I thank God every day for each heartbeat He allows me to have and every breath I can take. Does anyone else think about such life and death issues after OHS? Or have I become to introspective in my old age - LOL!?
Rita Savelis I got a pacemaker 2 weeks after OHS and it was a big blow to me, felt more difficult than OHS... I th ... Read more
Rita Savelis I got a pacemaker 2 weeks after OHS and it was a big blow to me, felt more difficult than OHS... I think about life and death issues a lot. It's been such a weird year. I feel very vulnerable as well. Transition and acceptance are a long journey. You certainly are not "too" introspective after what you've been through.
Barbara Laurie Dear Gary, We all, as humans, think about our mortality, and during something like this we realize h ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Dear Gary, We all, as humans, think about our mortality, and during something like this we realize how fragile life is. For me, I put my hope in God, and the salvation he offers in Jesus. Easter is coming up and it's the celebration of His resurrection. That's my greatest hope, is life in Christ now, and the resurrection to come. The bible says "Anxiety in the heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad." And "He who did not spare His own Son how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?" To me, that's a very good word❤️ During the night, in the multitude of my anxieties God's comfort in His word gives my soul rest. You've been through an amazing process Gary! So glad medicine has advanced so in God's providence you are still "ticking"! Thanks for sharing, it really got me thinking❤️💕❤️
Thanks for your honest and real post. My thoughts are with you and I think your reaction is quite nor ... Read more
Thanks for your honest and real post. My thoughts are with you and I think your reaction is quite normal. It is scary to be dependent on a device, but thank goodness for technology. The first glimpse of my own mortality was being diagnosed with the same issue that took my father (and we think my grandmother). We all have our time and I am choosing to do the best I can while I am here. That is the best we can do, right? Best wishes to you!
Mary K Gary, I have been thinking about your question for the past three days. Yes, mortality is on my mind. ... Read more
Mary K Gary, I have been thinking about your question for the past three days. Yes, mortality is on my mind. Given the heart surgery nine months ago and ongoing complications, my assumption that my life would go on for another thirty years like my mother and grandmother is not as reasonable as it used to be.
One of my friends died a couple of days ago. I had planned to be in touch with him. The words "What are you waiting for?" popped into my mind before I teared up at his too young passing. I am grateful for my second chance at life, without the surgery, I probably would have been dead by now.
So, life is different. I still grieve the loss of more vibrant life, but this life is a gift from God, and is precious. I am looking for the freedoms in its limitations, and searching still for avenues to manifest love, joy and meaningfulness.
Rita Savelis Lovely thoughts Mary K. Life is certainly different. Everything has changed, and moving into this ne ... Read more
Rita Savelis Lovely thoughts Mary K. Life is certainly different. Everything has changed, and moving into this new reality (it will never be as it once was in the past) is a Long journey.
I'm a little over 6 months post-OHS. And my last pacemaker surgery was on New Year's Eve (I've had 2 pacemaker lead repairs since OHS in August). For the most ...Read more
I'm a little over 6 months post-OHS. And my last pacemaker surgery was on New Year's Eve (I've had 2 pacemaker lead repairs since OHS in August). For the most part I've started feeling normal again. But I was in such bad shape prior to surgery I've almost forgotten what "normal" feels like.
Today, however, I'm exhausted. Mentally hitting a wall this week, forgetting things I should remember. My wife reminded me today the cardiologist told me last month I was moving too fast and needed to slow down. Guess it caught up with me.
Even having a simple business consultation yesterday with clients (yes, it was 6 hours in a conference room) wore me out. And this afternoon through the evening I've had to rest. Five minutes at the computer, answer a few emails, then rest for an hour. Then repeat. My mind has so much it wants to do but my body isn't cooperating.
At this point should I be further along in my recovery and have more energy and stamina? I know everyone is different. Guess I'm just weary of the fatigue, muscle aches, back pain, and sternum tenderness. And dealing with a bit of depression, which I didn't expect this far out. Thanks for letting me share here. Love this group!
Wanda Mroz Well I'm almost 7 months post op, and last week I had to juggle my work hours a lot. I've also just ... Read more
Wanda Mroz Well I'm almost 7 months post op, and last week I had to juggle my work hours a lot. I've also just gotten over a bad cold and I haven't had time or energy to get to rehab. By fri night I was totally exhausted and often feel tired by day's end still, so I'd think it's kind of normal. I feel more sore also but I'm chalking it up to not enough exercise or rest. Sleep is so important and last week I was lacking. Interested in any other comments for sure! My cardiologist told me to try to get my rest and find ways to destressing because even this far out we are still healing. Hope you are feeling stronger soon!
Sophia Ridley I've had aches and pains from the operation (made worse by my stretchy ligaments) and how I've held m ... Read more
Sophia Ridley I've had aches and pains from the operation (made worse by my stretchy ligaments) and how I've held myself so just started physio. Feel better after just one session, the pain in my hip was really getting to me as it was constantly nagging (was there before surgery so can't blame OHS for it entirely !). Feel now more positive about conquering the rest of them (collarbone moving does turn my stomach though!). Highly recommend checking in with a physio as it could be easily fixed.
Six months ago today, on August 21, 2015 I had open heart surgery (MV repair, septal resection & PFO closure). It was life-saving and life-changing. Today I'm ...Read more
Six months ago today, on August 21, 2015 I had open heart surgery (MV repair, septal resection & PFO closure). It was life-saving and life-changing. Today I'm celebrating my 6-month anniversary of LIFE and I couldn't have made it this far without the incredible support, love, and care of my bride of 35 years.
It's amazing to think that 6 months ago today Laura, our two children, my sisters and I walked into Florida Hospital Orlando at 5:30 AM, unsure of what the day would hold. My dad even drove all night following a family funeral to be with me the day after surgery. Seeing him standing in my hospital room doorway early Sunday morning brought tears to my eyes. Six days later I walked out of the hospital (with a lot of help!) a changed man.
The healing process has been rough at times, with some complications and hurdles, but today I feel so much better than I have in 5 years. And I'm not even half-way finished with my cardiac rehab! Special thanks to my amazing cardiologist Dr. Sumant Lamba (Jacksonville) and my surgeon Dr. Tom Martin (Orlando) for their expert care. Most importantly, however, is my gratitude and thankfulness to God my Healer and Life Sustainer. Looking forward to many more productive years ahead!
Robert Osmachenko Let's have a round of smiles for everyone! Take care brother, you are a changed and blessed man.
Steven A Husted god bless you brother the lord will take care of you he is the healer amen your heart brother 1 and a ... Read more
Steven A Husted god bless you brother the lord will take care of you he is the healer amen your heart brother 1 and a half years out
I saw my cardiologist this morning for my monthly follow-up (my OHS was on 8/21/15). All is well. But because of the chest and back pain my cardiologist thinks ...Read more
I saw my cardiologist this morning for my monthly follow-up (my OHS was on 8/21/15). All is well. But because of the chest and back pain my cardiologist thinks I have costochondritis. My sternum aches and every muscle, tendon and nerve in my chest and upper back is still reeling from the 6-hour open heart surgery, the 2-hour pacemaker surgery, the 1-hour cardioversion, and the 2-hour New Year’s Eve surgery and ablation procedure. I’m done with hospitals!
So, my awesome cardiologist has advised me to slow down a little. My mind says “hey, I’m all better” but my body says “hey, you survived open heart surgery but you’re still healing.” He is concerned I’m overdoing it, so I’m reluctantly trying to relax more and slow down. Easier said than done!
Barbara Laurie Hey Gary, Slowing down doesn't mean giving up. It's the mundane that takes strength, not the busy ha ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Hey Gary, Slowing down doesn't mean giving up. It's the mundane that takes strength, not the busy hard work. Might be a good time to pick up a good book, just not Moby Dick, that'd be too big😄😄 Best Regards
Sophia Ridley I overdid it and ended up with the paramedic visiting in the middle of the night. When I ended up at ... Read more
Sophia Ridley I overdid it and ended up with the paramedic visiting in the middle of the night. When I ended up at the eye A&E due to blurred vision (side effect to meds, all fine) I got a talking to about resting more.... It's difficult but they have seen 100s so I'm forcing myself to go to bed earlier etc. I really don't want to take a step backwards.
Today I finally was able to resume cardiac rehab. I had only completed 10 sessions when I started having the Aflutter issues back in November. After cardioversion ...Read more
Today I finally was able to resume cardiac rehab. I had only completed 10 sessions when I started having the Aflutter issues back in November. After cardioversion in early December (which held only for about 3 weeks), atrial ablation, and pacemaker atrial lead replacement surgery on New Year's Eve, I really was anxious to get started again. Today was 30 days since the last surgery so I was very excited to get back to rehab this morning!
The funny thing is that when I got hooked up to the heart monitor at rehab, the nurses all said they couldn't find my atrial pacing (I'm 100% PM dependent). No P-waves either. So I texted my cardiologist, who arranged for me to have a PM interrogation this afternoon.
Fortunately the nurses missed it somehow and I'm in perfect sinus rhythm! And my P-waves are at 4.9 (out of 5). I'm looking forward to celebrating my 6-month post-OHS anniversary on 2/21. Oh, and our house sold so we're moving this month. So all is well in a busy new year!
This past Thursday was my 5-month post-OHS anniversary. I do believe the New Year's Eve atrial ablation and pacemaker lead replacement surgery was successful ...Read more
This past Thursday was my 5-month post-OHS anniversary. I do believe the New Year's Eve atrial ablation and pacemaker lead replacement surgery was successful - I still feel so much better! I am experiencing collarbone & upper back discomfort. Some of the pain is from the annoying pacemaker incision. Seems something muscular is always aching. So I'm returning to cardiac rehab tomorrow (Monday). I completed only 10 of 32 sessions when I went into AFL back in late November. Looking forward to getting back on the bicycle and treadmill and getting my energy level back up!
Sophia Ridley So pleased that everything's working well. I'm the same with aches, more on waking but then my right ... Read more
Sophia Ridley So pleased that everything's working well. I'm the same with aches, more on waking but then my right collarbone takes over for the day. I slept with a hot water bottle on it, so hopefully have some relief.
I do think some might be as a result of rehab as the muscle groups come back on line. Best of luck with that treadmill!
Tomorrow will be 5 months post OHS - yahoo! I had cardioversion in December and atrial ablation & pacemaker lead replacement on New Year's Eve. Now my question: ...Read more
Tomorrow will be 5 months post OHS - yahoo! I had cardioversion in December and atrial ablation & pacemaker lead replacement on New Year's Eve. Now my question: I'm having intense back pain between my shoulder blades. It's a burning pain. My upper chest/clavicle area is sore, as to be expected, but the upper back pain is awful. Is this a normal after-effect from all I've had or do I need to see a chiropractor? Any thoughts?
Sophia Ridley I have intense back pain on my left upper back if I lie flat for more than a couple of hours. My surg ... Read more
Sophia Ridley I have intense back pain on my left upper back if I lie flat for more than a couple of hours. My surgeon said that it's due to the operation and muscular rather than skeletal. Posture will also cause the pain, it's quite common post surgery to hunch as you protect your chest. I would check at rehab what they think before you have any treatment as you don't want to make it worse.
Gary Stripling Thanks, Sophia. I'm going to resume rehab on Friday. I had to stop after 10 sessions back in October ... Read more
Gary Stripling Thanks, Sophia. I'm going to resume rehab on Friday. I had to stop after 10 sessions back in October because of the pacemaker and AFib issues. Hopefully rehab will offer some relief or treatment options.
Pat Bluemel Yup, it's normal. It's the way they hinge you on the table. Get the heated back patches you can sti ... Read more
Pat Bluemel Yup, it's normal. It's the way they hinge you on the table. Get the heated back patches you can stick back there and fall asleep on a heating pad. Mine lasted for about 7 months. take care. Perhaps get a seated massage too.
Cristen Marzula Hi Gary - During the initial healing process (1-2 months post-op), I tried Myofascial Release to comb ... Read more
Cristen Marzula Hi Gary - During the initial healing process (1-2 months post-op), I tried Myofascial Release to combat the severe muscular and skeletal pain between my shoulder blades. After 1 year post-op, I finally visited a chiropractor for very minimal adjustments. The severe pain was unfortunately a normal part of my healing process. I definitely hope that you find some relief soon!
Robert Frederick I had some back pain between my shoulder blades in the ICU and after surgery. Some was definitely ... Read more
Robert Frederick I had some back pain between my shoulder blades in the ICU and after surgery. Some was definitely from the drain.
But I think my back also does this if I lay on it for a long period (like during surgery) Once it got flared up, it became a little sensitive to the way I positioned myself in bed. Mine eventually diminished.
Now, it starts to hurt in the same way after I walk for about 45 minutes, but just a little. It is something that is probably unique to my back.
Robert Osmachenko You've got some good comments here. For me, it started about 3 mos. post surgery. It was like deep ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko You've got some good comments here. For me, it started about 3 mos. post surgery. It was like deep tissue healing and very painful. It came out of nowhere so the doctor prescribed Indomethacin for pain which allowed me to continue stretching and functioning. Surprisingly, this lasted about 3 weeks and I went off the drug.
Take care.
Gary Stripling Thanks for the feedback, everyone! It's especially helpful for my wife to read your comments so she'l ... Read more
Gary Stripling Thanks for the feedback, everyone! It's especially helpful for my wife to read your comments so she'll be able to better help me through it. Right now I'm alternating heating pad with an ice pack. I only have percocet for pain (1/2 pill every 12 hours) and fortunately that doesn't knock me out.
Had a good report today at my cardiologist's office! The staples were pulled from my New Years Eve pacemaker surgery & the leads are firmly in place and firing ...Read more
Had a good report today at my cardiologist's office! The staples were pulled from my New Years Eve pacemaker surgery & the leads are firmly in place and firing correctly. The atrial ablation procedure seems to have worked (I'm still in sinus rhythm). I get to resume cardiac rehab next week. Pacemaker-assisted cardiac function is very good & I don't have to see a doc for 30 days! Yahoo!
Robert Osmachenko Sounds like you're riding on the top of the moon. Don't we love it when a plan comes together!! I f ... Read more
Robert Osmachenko Sounds like you're riding on the top of the moon. Don't we love it when a plan comes together!! I follow Dr. Masley"s nutritional suggestions for supporting heart health plus I really enjoy smoothies with kale, spinach and parsley. Keep on rockin!
Liz Burroughs Congrats! I'm glad that you're doing so well!
Now that I'm on the other side of OHS, pacemaker surgery, cardioversion, ablation, etc. (whew!) I need to get a medical ID bracelet, mainly because I travel ...Read more
Now that I'm on the other side of OHS, pacemaker surgery, cardioversion, ablation, etc. (whew!) I need to get a medical ID bracelet, mainly because I travel alone quite frequently for my business. Anybody have any suggestions on a provider you would recommend?
Sophia Ridley Hi, I hope everything has calmed down now.
I'm getting one from Medic Alert. It's international.
W. Carter You can order either a dog tag type necklace or bracelet from Walmart online and they will send it to ... Read more
W. Carter You can order either a dog tag type necklace or bracelet from Walmart online and they will send it to you. They have quite a few to choose from and they are legit.
Shop Medical Alert Bracelet : Fashion Bracelets & Charms at Walmart.com - and save. Buy Complete Medical 2542BM Medical Identification Jewelry Bracelet Diabetic at a great price.