Ginger (In the Land of Oz) posted a note for Anthony that says: Wow! Tony! What did I say????
YOU ARE THE MAN!!!
And bless you, now you are proving it!!!
Way to go! Just having your running shoes on gets you in that mindset - so what do you do? You find a track!!! Breaks me up, but I'm not laughing AT you, I'm laughing WITH you because I am starting to hear the Joy that is You back in your voice. And Victory on- INR improvement, Blood pressure changes with exercise, Heart rate closer to what feels like home, and Dreams, among other things. But the big one is -You are getting your great Tony attitude back! What makes the man is not the things that are seen, a man's worth comes from what is inside of him - heart, mind, and soul! Sir, you are a winner and you always will be! The MAN upstairs made you that way, and He is always right. Even if you forget just a bit, He is knowing and nudging you to be everything you are meant to be. We fall down, but we get up! A failure is not someone who falls down, a failure is someone who falls down and doesn't get back up. That is not you, Tony, that is not the Tony we know and Love. That's all gone now. I know you can feel it! Loved that helicopter coming for you!
Look out- like the movie said, He's Back!!
God bless you, Tony. You make me smile inside, and for that I thank you!!!

Terrie posted a note for Anthony that says: Good morning Anthony. Hope you had a better night's sleep and that today is not a day where you will be "curling your toes" as you shared in your blog to me! Right now I think the anticipatory anxiety associated with what it will feel like after the surgery go replaced by the vision of waking up after surgery! I will be happy just to get to that place!!!!
As you miss your running it is the same for me with swimming but I have been in no way as active as you appear to be!
This means you are so close to being on the way back to your next race and I am months away from feeling the pull of the water as I glide back from one lap and in to another. How I miss the strength of those simple moves as you miss filling your lungs with beautiful breaths of oxygen and the wind in your face! We will all get that fresh start which will for you be sooner than later!
And the way we feel/felt prior to surgery will be a thing of the past.
Again buddy, patience! Have a great day.

Norm Seawright Jr posted a note for Anthony that says: TCP,
Ok, I will try to be serious for a minute: start counting! LOL I spoke with Edward Horne today, and he wanted me to tell you that we all are thinking of you and keeping you in our prayers!

Tony, you are an inspiration to so many of us and I thank you for being a positive influence in my life! (Is the minute up, yet?)

Ok! Hey brother, keep the faith, get that INR climbing into the normal range and get back here so we can go flying together!

Take care!
Norm

Ginger (in the Land of Oz) (thanks Terrie!) posted a note for Anthony that says: Anthony,
THANK YOU FOR THIS POST!!! Your good news is GREAT! and you not so good news is, not so good but certainly not BAD!!!

You may remember that I have a brain injury and it acts up from time to time. (That is the nicest way I can put it.) But Anthony, I cannot get out of my bed and have any chance of standing up without immediately hitting the floor if I don't wait at least 30 minutes after I have taken my morning meds first. Try that with a full bladder! It used to be one hour!

I am on so many meds - almost none of them for the FDA approved use - that I spend an entire afternoon and sometimes well through the evening setting them up for the week to come. And I take them (well, some of them) four times a day.

The one I absolutely HAVE to take 4 times a day has another drug in the same class that can be taken only twice a day. Yes, they tried that first, right after the injury. It was supposed to slow down the terrible vertigo that was coming from inside my brain and maybe even give me a chance to relax and sleep. Instead, I had what they call a paradoxical reaction. In me, the drug did completely different things. I got agitated, irritable, shaky, and thought I would climb the walls. And this was one small dose.

My doctor called to see how much it was helping. NOT! Uh oh, hmmmm...what to do. I think I have told you I have been a pharmacist since 1978. I said, there is one drug in that class that is eliminated unchanged in the urine, doesn't break down into other things so there are 3 things now active that my brain apparently does not like. I told her the name of the drug.

She said, But you would have to take that four times a day!!! I said, If it works and helps this sensation of motion and the wall not connecting with the ceiling go lessen or go away and the nausea and vomiting that come after it, I would GLADLY take it 4 times a day. She reminded me it would probably be for a long time. Well Anthony, it's been over 25 years, but at least there are times when looking at me people probably think I am "normal".

I cannot walk a straight line even with it. (My friends say, if a cop pulls you over, say BREATHALYZER!) It really is funny, although it wasn't at the start.

And I have an identical twin who take one tablet for her thyroid once a day! I do too, but also much more!

What I am trying to say is, this is a small setback in the big picture. If you didn't want to go home, then they would be examining your head like they did mine!

Your not so good news is actually good because something can be done about it! If you were covered with hives from the Coumadin (warfarin), then you would have a huge problem. But this is just a matter of patience and time.

You are in good hands. They know what they are doing and they kept you because they care, just like we do. We don't want you going home before your INR is in the right range because we love you too much. We do NOT want you to have a stroke in the first week you are home. Do you see what I am saying?

The docs know the problem (Victory #1), they know how to take care of it (Victory #2), and they will know when you can safely leave the hospital (Victory #3).

You spoke earlier about being a patient patient. The time is now. I know people who have not seen a heart rate as low as 70 for years and never will! But once you get back in your running shoes, that 70 will go down! How jealous they would all be!
And you are not in a medium stress or low stress environment -- you're in a hospital, and no matter how much you try, you will feel stress there. Makes your heart rate go ---- Yes, up!

God bless you, Anthony, when I started to read your post, I was really worried that the warfarin was not working. But NO, they just have to get it so it is making the INR get to the right level. With their experience, that is a piece of cake! (Make mine double chocolate!)

You will look back on this day and shake your head, but I know-- you will have a smirk on your face! It's another necessary step. It's not at all like they have to rush you back to the OR.

So allow yourself to be washed over with peace. Think of how you feel after running with all those endorphins flowing through you. Know that we are all praying you home, but not before it is the right time with the right INR! Because we love you too much. You are part of our family and we want the very best for you! And so do all of those people taking care of you.

That's the Truth -- no if, ands, goods, or bads. Take each day as they come. Rejoice that your heart is doing so well. Be glad you are so far beyond so many of us who do not even know yet when our surgery will be.

YOU ARE THE MAN!! We Love you, and Don't You Forget It!

With great hugs and prayers and more,

Terrie posted a note for Anthony that says: Anthony, I remember in an earlier post how you described the feelings you had at waking up from your surgery. I am so looking forward to being able to post the joy of those feelings and imagine that to be one of your "highlights"!
This time of adjustment is just one more challenge you sound totally up for! I hope each day things go smoother and you are able to plan for that next race! Have patience with the patient! One Day at a Time!

Meredith Bray posted a note for Anthony that says: Me, too. Me, too. Omg, I know exactly what you're talking about! Don't rush it, healing takes time. 10 years ago you would have expected to be in hospital a minimum of 5 days! I left the hospital at 11070, 72 BPM, inr 1.8. Today (15 weeks) I am averaging 10468, 65 BPM, inr 3.1.

Julia Hsu posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony,

My heart rate is also 15-20 higher than pre-op. If you search through this website, you will find many people has this "side effect". The docs don't seem to be concerned. So I guess it's the new norm.

The P posted a note for Anthony that says: Good morning:) hope you got some sleep. Remember to let your brain help you body! Off to CGN ☺ The Princess

M for mary posted a note for Anthony that says: Hi Anthony - just wanted to say thank you for sharing your progress. Its interesting getting an otherwise fit male's focus on this surgery. My surgery date is 17July 2014 (i live in UK) Am interested in that your chose a mechanical valve and the issues with warfarin as I have decided to go with the mechanical valve too basically because i intend to live a healthy and long life and dont want to go through this process again. Thinking of you and wishing you the very best of health in the future. cheers m

Norman H Seawright Jr. posted a note for Anthony that says: Anthony! (smiling)
Great to read your "good" news and your "not so good" news. Actually, it's all good, right? At least you know they are monitoring and making sure you are up for the task before they let you go. "Chill Grasshopper! When it is time, you will be able to take the pebble from their hands!"
Believe it or not, we have 85+ kids in the camp...a Loooooong day today. LOL. But it was a great day and getting home and reading your post was icing on the cake. Ok, my friend, gotta go finish watering the garden and workout before the night catches up with me. Stay Strong....
Norm and Lou

Joan Duncan posted a note for Anthony that says: oh my goodness I am so happy you r cruzin on your way back to full capacity. Knew u have the right attitude to recover beyond. Glad C is right there and just heard from G that everybody is com in to St K. Will be so much fun. Have to send this before internet dies . Love you love you hi to all. PS ..so respect the way you took care of telling M. you are the best J

Bill Rothballer posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony,

I have invaded your life with concerns for myself .If I am being a burden to you, as I have lots questions to ask, please wait till you feel stronger. I am not sure when you had your procedure.

I would certainly appreciate being able to confide in you if you don't mind. my Email address is included below.

Bill

bill.rothballer@louisville.edu

bill.rothballer@louisville.edu

Lou Seawright posted a note for Anthony that says: Sorry, I should have written "Tony" or "Anthony"!

Lou and Norman Seawright posted a note for Anthony that says: Toni,

Norman and I read your June 15th post with laughter. We hope that you will be able to get just a little sleep today. We are glad to hear that otherwise your recovery is going well. Norman is off to OBAP camp this week, but we are always watching(smiling). In prayer always for you,

Bill Rothballer posted a note for Anthony that says: Hi Anthony,
I hope your doing well. I have found your journal to be interesting as I am going to need surgery in the near future.

I think we live fairly close to each other. I'm in pewee valley ky and work in Louisville.

How did you make up your mind to have you surgery at the C.C. ? We're you refered to a surge or did the clinic decide who would preform your valve replacement?

Did you ever concider any of the local hospitals? What will you do ( God forbid) if there is a problem like an infection?

I pray for your continued improvement.

Best of luck

Bill

Ginger ( in the Land of Oz) posted a note for Anthony that says: It's late and you are probably asleep, so I am probably too late tonight, but I have a suggestion that may help you sleep on your back.

I used to sleep as you describe. Then I had a different surgery and had to sleep on my back. Here is what helped me:
Elevate your knees with pillows or what nursing suggests. It keeps your back flat and helps to give resistance if you try to roll. In addition, since your back is flatter on the bed, your back will feel better,so you are more likely to stay there.

Next, if you need extra pillows ask, but put at least one good sized pillow flush against each side. Just to get used to them, for a few days you might ask then nurses to tuck then in with a sheet that goes across your chest. They will keep you from rolling to one side or the other. But do not tuck in your arms or ...not a good idea. after a little bit you won't be rolling because your back ill be happier and you will get in the habit. I learned this after surgery on both sides for breast cancer. And they will want to check your chest just like they did mine, although I bet I had a lot more bandages and stitches on the outside than you did! If they say no to the sheet, just prop the pillows against each side. They will still remind you not to roll. It has been two years for me now and I still sleep on my back with knees propped up because my back feels a lot better. The side pillows are just plopped around on the bed! Now I am in the waiting zone to find out when my aortic valve replacement surgery will be. Glad I did not know how soon this would be two years ago. One day at a time, one step at a time!

Hope you are dropping back off well tonight and tomorrow is even better.

Gentle hugs to a very brave man~

Matt Piliere posted a note for Anthony that says: Keep on doing what you do. The sleep must be challenging. Your account of it reminded me of all the worst fatigue cases about hotel disruptions all rolled into one and then some. Have to assume things will start to slowly stabilize and normalize now. The sleep aid sounds like a pretty good idea. I appreciate you sharing this journal and look forward to your updates. Be well and Happy Father's Day.

Matt

Julia Hsu posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony,

Hang in there. I am with you about sleeping on the back. It's very uncomfortable. I didn't get a good night sleep in the hospital except the last one. Then they know you are ready to go home. I slept OK at home when I was on pain med. Now night sleep has been the most challenging part of my recovery and I am a 9-hr sleeper before surgery.

Kim Smith posted a note for Anthony that says: And you thought all we did at night was watch the patients sleep! We always say..... When you start to complain, we know you are getting well! Pretty soon they will be kicking you out! Keep up the great work!

Kim Smith

Deborah posted a note for Anthony that says: Hey BG! So glad to hear you're feeling good, albeit a bit tired! I've learned after my surgery to respect the process ... the pain, the PT, etc. It truly gave me a new sense of appreciation. Sounds as if you're doing the same! Keep up the great progress! Happy Father's Day!

Norman H. Seawright Jr posted a note for Anthony that says: Sounds like you made it through! Glad to know the surgery was successful! We are keeping you in our prayers!

Norm & Lou

Leon Dubner posted a note for Anthony that says: Skill, determination, and focus on your goal; just over 100+ days till your next marathon. Beyond thrilled to see you up and about. See you August 9th for our run; don't be late!!

Todd Montgomery posted a note for Anthony that says: Nice picture of you in your gown! Expect to see it in the future--when least expected!!!
:)
Glad you're up and walking--don't overdo it! Take care!

Warmest Regards,
Todf

Tami Zipay posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony
CONGRATULATIONS!!! Welcome back! You look Great!!! I am very happy for you and am looking forward to your recovery. My family and I wish you the very best!

Ginger (in the Land of Oz) posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony
YOU ARE THE MAN!!!! How inspiring to hear (okay, read) your words! And don't worry, they will not decease your pain meds until they have decreased them. Sorry, don't kick a typo when it's from THE MAN!!!
Thanks for being there and letting us know how you go!
We are praying and thinking healing, comfort thoughts for you!
Blessings - may the night roll like a smooth river...

~ Belinda ~ posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony,

Wonderful news! How long will they "try" to keep you at the hospital? Notice the wording. HA! I am glad to hear you are not in pain and on your way to recovering. Thank you for the updates. Hugs!

Bob Walker posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony,

It's truly wonderful to hear from you directly. I'm glad there's virtually no pain.

Are you using a Garmin when you go for the walks? You need to log those miles. LOL

I tend to take your point of view, "less info is better when it comes to surgery,"

Take care-- keep us posted, dear friend.

Bob

The Princess posted a note for Anthony that says: Sweet:). Saw the pic Brenda C sent. Please, Please listen to docs and come back to us soon.

Debbie McLay posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony,
So glad you are recovering and staying strong! Looking forward to seeing you back and hearing about all the reading you are doing :) We will be missing you in Miami!
Debbie

Todd Montgomery posted a note for Anthony that says: Hi TCP,

So glad to see everything went well. Hope
recovery is going well. You've been in my thoughts and I am glad the procedure is over. Look forward to seeing you back home. If you need anything, let me know.

Warmest Regards,
Todd

Kim Smith posted a note for Anthony that says: Hi Tony,

I am glad to hear that everything went well and that you are out of the unit. Although I never expected anything less. Keep up the good work!

Kim

Terricha Bradley-Phillips posted a note for Anthony that says: Hallelujah! Cousin, I'm so glad your surgery and recovery were successful, and have enjoyed reading your journal. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers, and you will be able to run and finish that marathon! God bless.

Terricha Bradley-Phillips

Matt Piliere posted a note for Anthony that says: Now do what the doctor tells you! Glad to hear it went well. Hope to see you soon.

The Princess posted a note for Anthony that says: You are my hero!

Terrie posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony-
Great news that your surgery went well and that you were happy with the results of your AVR. Continued uphill progress.
I hope when you feel up to it and have time you will add posts about your recovery so that we can learn from your experience.
Of all the journals I have read it appears you have taken a positive stand from beginning thru your surgery which has been a factor in your success, don't you agree? I am going to focus on the positive as I get closer to my own AVR in Aug.
Again-Very happy for you and get well soon.

Marian posted a note for Anthony that says: Glad to hear everything went well with the surgery. Now you can just be determined to recover. Hope it's an easy recovery.

Bob Walker posted a note for Anthony that says: Very happy to hear you're doing well in recovery. This is great news! Now get some rest and we'll see you out running in a few weeks.

Richard posted a note for Anthony that says: Hey Cousin! Great having dinner with you and Catherine last night. Even greater news today, our prayers were answered and you came thru surgery just fine! Looking forward to hearing further details! PS, heard on the news this morning that former Ohio Sen. and astronaut John Glenn had a similar procedure done last month at the Clinic. Glad they practiced on him first!

Love, Elise and family posted a note for Anthony that says: Hi cousin! You've been on my mind all day and I'm anxious to know when you've made it the Recovery room. Really enjoyed reading your journal -- yes, skill and determination -- very separate yet oh, so pertinent for surgeon and patient. Wishing you many blessings....

Jeanne Carman-Jones posted a note for Anthony that says: B
E
L
I
E
V
E

Chris Mugrage posted a note for Anthony that says: Hello from GYE! I just landed and you are heavily on my mind. Your surgery must be underway and I just wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers! I will be anxious to hear your next reports and will see you back in Miami soon! Maybe I can jog with you during your recovery.....it would probably be the only time I might be able to keep up! :) well, very early in your recovery that is! Smiles! All the best Tony!

Ginger (in the Land of Oz) posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony, Congratulations on the news. Remember to just take it a step at a time, ask for help when you need it and ask questions if there are things you don't understand. Even just, what are you doing there and de-escalate anxiety.

Our prayers will be with you all day, Heart Brother, helping to provide protection, comfort and peace.

See you on the other side. We will all look forward to seeing how things are going and will provide any support and prayers and encouragement we can!

Deborah Dean posted a note for Anthony that says: Hey Big Guy! That is great news! I'll be thinking about you! Wishing you a speedy recovery. You'll have to be a patient patient. Look forward to hearing all about your next adventure following your run on the road to recovery.

d.

Bob Walker posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony,
Best wishes! See you in a few weeks. Can't wait to run with you.
Bob

Leon Dubner posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony,

Will be thinking about you tomorrow. Wishing you a speedy recovery. See you soon.

Angie Jones posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony,

The Miami Crew Base is a happy place to work thanks to your skilled leadership. You will be greatly missed during your medical leave. I look forward to reading your progress posts during your recovery. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you tomorrow during your surgery & afterwards for a very quick recovery. .

Michael Solomon posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony,

OK, I won't wish you good luck and I already know you have more than enough determination, so I'll hope for good skill on the part of your surgery team and a fast recovery for you. Our thoughts will be with you tomorrow.

Mike and Kay

Bill Reese posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony ... Best wishes for a complete and speedy recovery!

Tami Zipay posted a note for Anthony that says: Hi Tony
I forwarded a message to you at your company email address (didn't knowhow to forward to this address) I think about you often. I wish you courage, patience and strength. I look forward to the chronicles of your recovery and to your return to us in MIA. Feed the good wolf! (see your email msg)

Bill Steel posted a note for Anthony that says: Tony:

You are truly an inpiration to all of us lucky enough to be in your circle of friends. Here you are, about to have heart surgery and you are thinking about your next marathon. I, on the other hand, have all the time in the world and I am just wasting my time, thinking nothing could ever happen to me.
Since reading your latest post about making a lot of dust on my final slide, I have begun to exercise. I thank you, not only for inspiring me to take better care of myself, but also for the countless examples you have given me on great leadership.
Looking forward to your returm.

All the best,

Bill