Suzanne K. posted a note for Anthony that says:
Enjoyed reading your post Tony. I am probably the total opposite of you in terms of being athletic. But I had heart valve/ascending aorta surgery at CC on May 15th and I am doing great! I'm 67 years old, so no spring chicken. The total experience at CC was amazing. Wait till it's all over with and you find yourself saying "I worried for nothing"!
Anthony Copeland-Parker Suzanne
Very ironic you should mention that about worrying.
I went back and read some of your journal ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Suzanne
Very ironic you should mention that about worrying.
I went back and read some of your journal entries and found this statement.
By the way, Does it bother anyone else when people say "Oh you'll be just fine, don't worry"?
It brought a smile to my face because by nature I usually don't worry but realized hearing that statement over and over has made me come very close. Just yesterday I realized that when it is all over I will probably say, "I worried for nothing!"
Thanks for the heads up on the step down so I can be prepared but I did notice when I was there a month ago that even though the place is huge and there are people everywhere I always felt like their only patient.
Glad to hear you are getting stronger each day and wish you a continued speedy recover.
Tony
On June 6, 2014...
~ Belinda ~ posted a note for Anthony that says:
Great quote, Tony! I like where you are mentally right now. You will have this in the rear view mirror in no time. Keep writing the updates. We are right there on the course supporting you through this "event" : )
Anthony Copeland-Parker Belinda
It was pointed out to me today that next Thursday I might want to go in with a well preserve ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Belinda
It was pointed out to me today that next Thursday I might want to go in with a well preserved body and hold off on that old sliding in with the dust flying until I am in my 90's.
Good point
Tony
On June 5, 2014...
Patti posted a note for Anthony that says:
Love the quote!!!!
You are in great hands at cleveland clinic. Look forward to your updates.
Anthony Copeland-Parker Patti
Sounds like you might have had some experience with the Cleveland Clinic. Do you have any word ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Patti
Sounds like you might have had some experience with the Cleveland Clinic. Do you have any words of wisdom?
Tony
On June 5, 2014...
Debbie Donnelly McLay posted a note for Anthony that says:
Tony,
Thanks for the updates! We will be looking forward to hearing about all these books that you are reading when you come back! Keep setting those goals and aiming high!
Debbie
Anthony Copeland-Parker Debbie
I learned from the best by watching you.
Know one aims higher and always achieve their goals m ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Debbie
I learned from the best by watching you.
Know one aims higher and always achieve their goals more than you. Yours are considerably more mental.
Tony
On June 3, 2014...
Leon Dubner posted a note for Anthony that says:
All the best, Tony. Looking forward to our run together. See you soon, my friend.
Anthony Copeland-Parker Got the date in my Calendar. August 9th at 10 am you pick the location for us to run a mile. Depend ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Got the date in my Calendar. August 9th at 10 am you pick the location for us to run a mile. Depending on how I am doing we might need to up that to 3 miles.
Tony
On May 30, 2014...
Matt posted a note for Anthony that says:
Tony, you're an inspiration. Thanks for doing this journal.
Anthony Copeland-Parker Matt
It is very theraputic for me. Sometimes it is best to just get your thoughts out for others to ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Matt
It is very theraputic for me. Sometimes it is best to just get your thoughts out for others to read to in some way help me to stay focused on the task at hand. I realize that it will be a long road back but I am sure it will all be worth it in the end.
Your morning pictures on FB are also very inspirational.
Tony
On May 29, 2014...
mariah posted a note for Anthony that says:
have continued to run every day since last i saw you here in POA. as always and perhaps moreso this time around, i was very sad to see you go, but following your unbelievable example, i swallowed the whiny bs and went for a run just 15 minutes after your taxi pulled away... i love you so much and can't wait to see you again in september! get some rest and recuperate because you have a wild and crazy retirement ahead of you. :)
Anthony Copeland-Parker It was great seeing you in your element and glad to hear you were able to keep up the running.
We wil ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker It was great seeing you in your element and glad to hear you were able to keep up the running.
We will meet somewhere great in September.
Maybe some place you have not been already so it will be new to the both of us.
That would be a first for the both of us.
Pops
On May 29, 2014...
~ Belinda ~ posted a note for Anthony that says:
Tony,
Stay encouraged! Get yourself a hazmat suit : ) I have a pink one. Not really, but have thought about it. Love your goals! XOXO
Anthony Copeland-Parker Belinda
You crack me up.
I just bought a book about a lady that did an iron man after this operation ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Belinda
You crack me up.
I just bought a book about a lady that did an iron man after this operation so I figure we are about the same shape going in and I plan on only doing what third of what she pulled off in about one third the time of recovery. Piece of cake.
Tony
On May 29, 2014...
Norman H. Seawright, Jr. posted a note for Anthony that says:
Hello My Friend!
I worked out this morning and though I did NOT run it was semi exhausting! Still got you on my mind, but I have changed my strategy! My goal is to lower my body fat, so I have incorporated routine strength training (low weight-high rep workouts)! Something about muscle chiesel! (Smiling yet?). Now about that 5K: I think you have me confused with somebody else! I would be there to support you crossing the finish line, but ME? RUNNING? Naw, I got a nice bike I am enjoying! LOL
Ok, I will bolt for now! Gotta keep your stock climbing! LOL
Take care,
Norm
Anthony Copeland-Parker Norm
Anything is possible if you have the desire.
I am sure you would line up next to me for an easy ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Norm
Anything is possible if you have the desire.
I am sure you would line up next to me for an easy 5k if I asked to help me with my recovery.
Good idea on the reduction of body fat and be careful on the bike.
Tony
On May 28, 2014...
Kent Kersey posted a note for Anthony that says:
Hey!
This might be of interest. I read it shortly before my surgery and found it inspirational.
Anthony Copeland-Parker Perfect timing
The book will arrive on the 3rd which will give me something to do the week prior to m ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Perfect timing
The book will arrive on the 3rd which will give me something to do the week prior to my surgery.
Thank you very much for sending that information my way and glad you have recovered well from your surgery.
Tony
On May 28, 2014...
Kent Kersey posted a note for Anthony that says:
This might be of internet. I read it shortly before my surgery and found it inspirational.
Kent Kersey posted a note for Anthony that says:
Hi!
I only run when being chased.
I had a mechanical aortic valve installed in June 2011. It was a tough few weeks, but recovery wasn't too bad since I was in pretty good shape physically. It sounds like you are strong and will have a quick recovery.
Anthony Copeland-Parker Kent
I remember making the statement that I would only run if being chased by a bear. Found out tha ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Kent
I remember making the statement that I would only run if being chased by a bear. Found out that you do not have to out run the bear but only the other runners.
Tony
On May 20, 2014...
John O'Neill posted a note for Anthony that says:
Hi again
I see I have a mistake in the previous post. It should say if my INR is high not low I get to eat more greens to lower it. I told my coumiden clinic to set my dosage high enough so I can still eat the greens I enjoy. Some clinics try to banish all greens, but I feel they should match the dose to your diet.
Anthony Copeland-Parker John
I appreciate the follow up post. Over the weekend I had a lot of internal thoughts on the mecha ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker John
I appreciate the follow up post. Over the weekend I had a lot of internal thoughts on the mechanical valve decision and came to the same point concerning wearing out a tissue valve. I do not see my lifestyle slowing down anytime soon so now after reading your point of view I am solidified on my decision.
Congrats on Grandmas and even though I have not run that one I know it is a very challenging marathon. I have done Twin Cities many years ago and it was a fantastic marathon.
As you take on the challenge from your son in law I suggest you duck in behind him the entire race and take in the last quarter mile. Having to look for you will take a lot out of his tank especially if you switch back and forth from his left to right shoulder.
Glad to hear all is working out for you and your family and can not thank you enough for the gems of wisdom which I will take to heart.
Tony
On May 20, 2014...
John O'Neill posted a note for Anthony that says:
Hi Anthony
After visiting with my surgeon he said my lifestyle would wear out a tissue valve in no time so I took his recommendation for mechanical and have no regrets. My insurance co bought me my own test machine and I test weekly. In the last five years I have been under my range 5 times and over it 38 times. I feel I would rather grow new blood cells than lose brain cells. I think I bleed less now from scrapes and scratches than before surgery when I was allowed to eat flax seed. I am a full time farmer so my work load changes constantly. I take a constant dose of coumadin so if i test low I get to eat more green leafy vegetables to bring it down. Broccoli works best while asparagus doesn't have any effect on my INR.
Resting heart rates are really easy with mechanical valves as you can hear it when you wake up in the morning if you really try. You then just wait for the clock to change then count it out. I ran Grandmas in Duluth MN thirteen months after surgery in 4:15. In 2012 I ran the Twin Cities Marathon in 4:30. My 35 year old son in law put in the family annual that year that he beat me by 8 seconds so I think there will be re-match coming soon. I will be 63 this year with the sixth grandchild on the way. I hope I can make running part of their lives. Best wishes and lots of prayers.
Anthony Copeland-Parker John
Which company did you use for your home testing kit? The company my cardiologist suggested quot ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker John
Which company did you use for your home testing kit? The company my cardiologist suggested quoted me $50 per month after my deductible is met because they were out of network for Aetna.
Tried calling Aetna to find out who was in network with no luck. I am going to try a second company next week but if you have a name of a testing company that would be great.
Thanks Tony
On May 18, 2014...
Bob Walker posted a note for Anthony that says:
I can't wait to run with you after the surgery. I'm guessing that you'll be hard to keep up with.
Anthony Copeland-Parker Bob
You have heard over the years all the reason for me not to run trails with you and I understand a ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Bob
You have heard over the years all the reason for me not to run trails with you and I understand a road run just does not have the excitement you need. However after careful consideration I have decided to add to my long things I would love to do after surgery a nice and easy trail run with you. You get to pick the route but I pick the date and time.
Thanks for giving me something to keep me motivated.
Tony
On May 17, 2014...
John O'Neill posted a note for Anthony that says:
Hi Anthony
I also trained non stop for open heart surgery,the biggest challenge of my life. My doctors at the mayo clinic told me if I had not been a runner they never would of met me. The nurses there also told me recovery was faster with runners. After I had my new mechanical aortic valve, Dacron graft installed and they did one one bypass, I asked my cardiologist if I could now do a marathon. He told me I could as I now have a better heart than I ever had before. I did my first one ever, thirteen months after surgery at age 59. I never realized that I was suffering from shortness of breath while running until after surgery when running became so much easier.
Good luck and lots of prayers as you train for and endure this speed bump in life.
Anthony Copeland-Parker John
Perfect timing. I was starting to backslid and second guess myself. I was starting to have a l ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker John
Perfect timing. I was starting to backslid and second guess myself. I was starting to have a lot of concerns about a mechanical valve and all the downside to going in that direction. Your post was just what I needed.
Thanks
Tony
Anthony Copeland-Parker BTW John which marathon did you do and how did it go? Anymore planned if so when and where?
Tony
On May 16, 2014...
Norman H. Seawright, Jr. posted a note for Anthony that says:
Tony,
You are still my hero! I don't have many words right now, but stay tuned, the month ain't over! Lou and I are pulling and praying for you! I have not committed to the running , but I am exercising (twice a day, most days)! I am trimming down ! Trying look half as good as you! (Smilin' yet?) enjoying reading your journal! Keep pushing!
Norm!
Anthony Copeland-Parker Norm
I am glad to hear you are working on getting back to your college frame. It would be great to s ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Norm
I am glad to hear you are working on getting back to your college frame. It would be great to see at a local 5K one day. This is where you say you have bad knees. All you smiling yet.
Thanks for the thoughts and prayers.
Tony
On May 15, 2014...
Tami Zipay posted a note for Anthony that says:
Hi Tony - Just read your May 15 post. I have never run father than a 10K but I have trained and competed in many tae kwon do tournaments. I'd like to think I can empathize with you -( albeit on a lower level.) You have a lot of skills and experience that has enabled you to complete so many marathons. It seems incredible to me, maybe to you too as you look back. But I'm pretty sure you trained and prepared for each race and each time was probable different - maybe wondering how well you would be able to do this time, maybe a P.R. or even wondering if you could finish. And I'm guessing each experience went into the next marathon's training. And now you have a new kind of marathon. You get to run this one laying down! But you're right - it won't be a piece of cake. You bring some advantages to the table, though, and you know that. Your overall fitness level is amazing compared almost everyone else who goes through this surgery. You've done your homework and have excellent doctors, and you're continuing your training with exercise ( VERY impressive by the way). So I guess what I'm trying to say is you're prepared as anyone could be. I too have learned things don't always go as planned....sometimes they go better.
Anthony Copeland-Parker Very interesting point of view. I have been three miles into a race and simply said this is going to ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Very interesting point of view. I have been three miles into a race and simply said this is going to suck. It did but I figured out a way to get to the finish. We have an acronym for not completing a race. DNF, did not finish. Never had one and this will not be my time to start.
I appreciate your perspective and will add the idea that maybe this will actually turn out better than expected.
Thanks
Tony
On May 14, 2014...
Bud posted a note for Anthony that says:
Quick question for everyone reading these entries….Ever meet a guy like Tony before?? Yep, I didn’t think so! Tony brings so many positive elements to the people around him that I can’t even begin to count them—and I’m sure that if you’ve been invited to this page, you know exactly what I mean. You are a special friend Tony—your style of humor is unique, refreshing and provides a welcome kind of stress relief. Your brand of leadership is rare, respected, and appreciated by all. What a great support network you’ve got! I know for you, this is nothing but a little thing—one operation to make you better, stronger, faster. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers before, during and after the operation.
++ To the Medical Team (Doctors, Nurses and Staff at The Cleveland Clinic), I would just say this: The population of the U.S. is 317 million; earth,7 billion… but there is only one Tony. We know you all are the best and you’ll take great care of him, but keep in mind that you have a special and much loved person in your care—like he’s one in seven billion.
Anthony Copeland-Parker As I go thru this bump in the road I will keep the spirit of my mother in mind. Right up to her fina ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker As I go thru this bump in the road I will keep the spirit of my mother in mind. Right up to her final days on earth she always tried to do a good deed for others and treated others as she wanted to be treated.
Thanks Bud for those kind words.
On May 7, 2014...
Chris Mugrage posted a note for Anthony that says:
Tony, I have to say I was shocked when you told me about your heart valve. It is difficult to imagine how anyone could run that many marathons, not to mention someone with a heart valve condition! Simply amazing! You are a true inspiration, not only because of your marathons, but more importantly because of your outlook on life and the way you treat people! You are so well respected and appreciated by many! You have always been supportive of my family 's health situations, and also with my neck surgery and you can sure bet that you have my support, thoughts, and prayers as you go through this! I hate that you are going through this, but I am glad you shared it with me as I, and everyone will be cheering for you the entire way!
Anthony Copeland-Parker Chris
Thanks for the kind note. Looking forward to putting this bump in the road behind me.
Tony
On May 3, 2014...
Tami Zipay posted a note for Anthony that says:
Captain Tony
Wow - your news is impressive - but - then so are you. I guess one step at a time as you say and you will get through this "marathon". You're right, this is the maintenance time of our lives and we need to accept that and trust our "mechanics". I would like to say something to inspire you, but, once again you have inspired me! 60 percent?? Really? I can't wait to talk with you at 100 percent!
Anthony Copeland-Parker Great point about the 60 vs 100 percent when to comes to getting blood in the right place and not hav ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Great point about the 60 vs 100 percent when to comes to getting blood in the right place and not having a valve that closes properly.
With that in mind maybe I can think about qualifying for the Boston Marathon again. For the 2016 Boston Marathon my qualifying time is 3:55. My best time so far was 3:57, 7 years ago. Using some reverse calculations from my present time, it does seem possible.
Thank you for giving me something else to focus on rather than the upcoming surgery.
Tony
On May 2, 2014...
Gwendolyn Parker posted a note for Anthony that says:
Re your latest post, brother, I don't think you're crazy. I think you have just learned what enriches your life and gives you the greatest opportunities for joy. We should all know that about ourselves, Hope the time flies as best it can till you can put what is now in front of you in your rear view mirror -- as you say so often, one step at a time!
Anthony Copeland-Parker Did not realize at the time how difficult the wait would be.
They say time flies when you are having ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Did not realize at the time how difficult the wait would be.
They say time flies when you are having fun or getting old.
Neither apply in this case. As always making the best of it. Read an article from the Cleveland Clinic about things you can do to prepare for surgery so I now have their suggestions on my to do list.
On May 1, 2014...
Jack and Millie posted a note for Anthony that says:
Tony, our prayers will be with you daily.
We know that we serve a mighty God, who can fix us, so, be asured that the Lord has an eye on you and your heart, We pray that you have peace while you wait for your surgery. If you need anything, please let us know!
You are one groovy guy and we know that you will come out even stronger! Look out world!!!
Hugs,
Anthony Copeland-Parker The joke I tell is that my heart is so strong that I will probably take them longer than usual for th ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker The joke I tell is that my heart is so strong that I will probably take them longer than usual for them to stop it for them to replace my valve.
Thanks for you calming words
Tony
On May 1, 2014...
Capt Jack posted a note for Anthony that says:
Tony,
I look forward to sharing this chapter of life with you, your friends, and family, and cannot wait until it is complete, and you are back in MIA , God bless and please let us know if there anything we cam do.
Travis Brown posted a note for Anthony that says:
I can't wait to hear your story. I'm not into running but I do a lot of mountain biking. Its a bit easier on my knees I jacked up as a kid. I need my aortic valve replaced too, and I am pretty nervous about it and the possibility of taking blood thinners. I crash from time to time and don't want to bleed to death in the process. Good Luck and keep running..
Anthony Copeland-Parker Hope the battle with insurance goes well. I hear you on the bike. I use to ride a lot but the crash ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Hope the battle with insurance goes well. I hear you on the bike. I use to ride a lot but the crashes kept getting in the way. I am sure you will find a way to keep biking. Just might have to take a few precautions while out on the road.
Tony
On April 28, 2014...
Judy posted a note for Anthony that says:
okay Marathon Man ... you got me hooked and on the edge of my seat .... can't wait to watch you recover and RUN !! I have no doubt you will do it ... such a great attitude !
Myself, I am having a mechanical Aortic Valve "installed" TOMORROW.
And I will work hard if you will (obviously you will) ... so thanks for the inspiration you show. I want to cycle again. not quite as ambitious as you ... I intend to cycle the Spokane River trail in September. nice easy flat ride. Then onto to mountains again and century rides .... by 2015 ? Cheers,
Anthony Copeland-Parker Much success with your surgery and your recovery. Looking forward to reading about your road back to ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Much success with your surgery and your recovery. Looking forward to reading about your road back to the bike. I am sure you have seen some great views and the what you are planning for 2015 sounds great.
I have a Marathon in Berlin on Sept 28th so we shall see how that will turn out.
Tony
On April 24, 2014...
Dennis Warner posted a note for Anthony that says:
Anthony: My aortic and mitral valve surgery is scheduled for May 12, so I may be out running before you have recovered from your operation on June 12. After 60 years of running 35,000 miles and 23 marathons, I want to keep moving. Let's stay in contact to see how we get back to it.
Anthony Copeland-Parker Absolutely
Wish you much success with your surgery and look forward to how your recovery is going.
On April 23, 2014...
Bob Walker posted a note for Anthony that says:
Tony, thanks for setting up this journal. I truly enjoy reading and learning about your past accomplishments and future goals (especially Berlin, Wow!). Keep us posted. And, most of all, let me know if there's is anything I can do to help with this short diversion in your life. You're darn amazing.
Anthony Copeland-Parker I must admit Bob you have transitioned well after years on the bike now to taking the trails by storm ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker I must admit Bob you have transitioned well after years on the bike now to taking the trails by storm.
I have it on my list to do at least one trail run with you. You might have to slow down as to not loose me.
On April 23, 2014...
Cassie Lingenhoel posted a note for Anthony that says:
It's true you are an inspiration to all of us! Glad you will be a little closer to Shawn and I while your up at Cleveland clinic. Let me know if you need a little PT :) or anything else! I'll keep you in my heart over the next couple months.
Anthony Copeland-Parker Might need you guys to come help out after I get out of the hospital prior to my post op exam on the ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker Might need you guys to come help out after I get out of the hospital prior to my post op exam on the 20th.
Thanks for the great message.
Tony
On April 23, 2014...
Gwendolyn Parker posted a note for Anthony that says:
Hey Aaron, that's a great thing to do for and with your Dad. I'm sure it will be a great motivator for him. Great idea! Love from your Auntie!
Anthony Copeland-Parker Gwen
We can make it a family event.
Maybe this December will can set up a course in St. Kitts.
On April 22, 2014...
Aaron Parker posted a note for Anthony that says:
Pops, I'm already planning a marathon to run with you after you're fully recovered. Just let me know what states have the least hills and we will cross that finish line together! I love you!
Gwendolyn Parker posted a note for Anthony that says:
Baby brother, you've always been an inspiration to me. Throughout your life you've always been unflappable, centered, goal oriented, and funny as hell. And a great brother, father, son, spouse. I know you will face and weather this challenge as you do all challenges - with grace and an optimistic spirit. Sending you much love and support! Your sis.
Clare Auten posted a note for Anthony that says:
I have done 7 halfs and a whole....not nearly as great of shape as you. About 14 weeks post op and could probably do a walk/run half. Good for you having a goal. Good luck
Anthony Copeland-Parker I wish you all the best to getting back to as you were before. I am sure I will also be wishing to g ... Read more
Anthony Copeland-Parker I wish you all the best to getting back to as you were before. I am sure I will also be wishing to get a six mile run in.
Very ironic you should mention that about worrying.
I went back and read some of your journal ... Read more
Very ironic you should mention that about worrying.
I went back and read some of your journal entries and found this statement.
By the way, Does it bother anyone else when people say "Oh you'll be just fine, don't worry"?
It brought a smile to my face because by nature I usually don't worry but realized hearing that statement over and over has made me come very close. Just yesterday I realized that when it is all over I will probably say, "I worried for nothing!"
Thanks for the heads up on the step down so I can be prepared but I did notice when I was there a month ago that even though the place is huge and there are people everywhere I always felt like their only patient.
Glad to hear you are getting stronger each day and wish you a continued speedy recover.
Tony