Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb:
I am thinking of you and your husband today. I hope the surgery went well and that you are progressing in ICU. All the best, Barb.
Barb Brooks Hey Jim, It's really not as bad as I thought it would be! I was expecting a lot more pain, so I'm p ... Read more
Barb Brooks Hey Jim, It's really not as bad as I thought it would be! I was expecting a lot more pain, so I'm pleasantly surprised!
On October 29, 2013...
Dan Sinclair posted a note for Barb that says:
Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers Barb, Take Care
Barb Brooks Thanks Dan! What is your exact date so I can cheer you on :-)
On October 29, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Barb that says:
You poor thing having to lay there for 71/2 hours. After my angiogram I had to lay there for about 31/2 hours while the male nurse put pressure on the femur artery and later put a sandbag on it to stop the bleeding. My tailbone was really bothering me. I can't imagine laying there 71/2 hrs!
Glad you got the surgery time worked out. I think you made a good decision just to have it done today.
Will keep you in my prayers.
Barb Brooks Thanks Carol. A bit uncomfortable to say the least, but yes, the right decision.
On October 29, 2013...
Debbie posted a note for Barb that says:
At this time you are probably in surgery. Just want you to know I am thinking of you. Update as soon as you can.
Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
Ya can't make this up, Barb! I feel your pain. And your husband's pain! Delighted cath was clear and thru the wrist. I was in bay #13 a few week's ago. (she asked me if I was superstitious as she assigned bay. Some folks will not take the bay. Hey, at this point I have a valve problem, what do I care! ;) ) I know the room set up. You certainly did the right thing- ask folks and do research. So sorry you had to deal with this and also cool your heels. The very best of success today, Barb. I am thinking of you and trusting in a wonderful outcome.
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Barb that says:
Good luck Barb!! You're going to do great.
Barb Brooks Thanks, Ernie! Not as bad as I thought!
On October 28, 2013...
Lynn E posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb!
What a screw up! I understand getting bumped- that can happen to anyone scheduled- but 7.5 hours in day surge recovery??? Well after that you should sleep,tonight! I am sorry it was a mix up- just what we don't need when we finally get to that point. But I agree withnyounabout BWH- you are in good hands from the thoracic team! You sound cool and calm:) best wishes for take off tomorrow!
Barb Brooks Hi Lynn... like they say... "The waiting is the hardest part". And it was!
On October 28, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb
I am sure you had a really busy day today. I hope everything went well. I want to wish you the very best tomorrow. You will be in my thoughts. Please have someone post for you as able. All the best my friend.
The day didn't go as planned, but I'm pleased with the end result. I'll post the 'story' when I can. Thanks for the well wishes!
On October 28, 2013...
John & Kathy Gregory posted a note for Barb that says:
Hi Barb,
Left a message on your phone but couldn't remember if you were checking in Hospital in AM or PM today so... wishing you a speedy recovery and fast homecoming!
Love
Checked in early this morning. Has been a long day. Thanks for the well-wishes!!! ... and Happy Birthday Kathy !!
On October 28, 2013...
sharon cresenzi posted a note for Barb that says:
Hi Barb!! Thinking of you today and wishing you a speedy recovery!!! Cant believe we saw each other after so many years! We must keep in touch! You are in my thoughts and prayers today!!!
Barb Brooks Thanks Sharon! We will keep in touch! Very long day today. Thanks for the thoughts and prayers... I ... Read more
Barb Brooks Thanks Sharon! We will keep in touch! Very long day today. Thanks for the thoughts and prayers... I really appreciate them!!!
On October 27, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb,
I remember the tests the day before surgery. I had nothing to eat most of the day but I didn't want to eat a BIG meal on my last night so I just had a "small plate" chicken dinner at the hotel restaurant. I was relatively calm the day before surgery.
You will be in my thoughts and prayers. This is what one of my friends who is a cardiac nurse sent to me:
"Praying for wisdom for your surgeon, compassion for your nurses, grace for your family, strength and faith for you." It is so true.
After this is all over for all of us, I think we should plan to all rendezvous someplace in the US and actually meet each other!
Remember to give your password for this site to one of your family members so they can keep us updated.
I don't want to eat much today, but I sure am starving. I believe you are more hungry when you know you can't eat.
I have total confidence in the team here, so I'm sure I'll do well. Thanks for thinking of me!
On October 27, 2013...
Dan Sinclair posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb,
I cannot wait to read the next two weeks of journal entries from you, you are going to do great and I will be sitting here hoping mine goes anywhere near as well. Take care get as much rest as you can before and after and know we are all thinking about you tomorrow.
Sincerely,
Barb Brooks Dan, I sure will post, and maybe throw a bit of complaining in there as well ;-) Thanks for your th ... Read more
Barb Brooks Dan, I sure will post, and maybe throw a bit of complaining in there as well ;-) Thanks for your thoughts... I really appreciate them!
On October 27, 2013...
Debbie J posted a note for Barb that says:
good luck Please have your husband keep me informed. My daughter tonight was asking about you.
Barb Brooks Hi Debbie ! Can't believe the time has come! I'll keep you posted.
On October 27, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
If you have Dr. Shah tell him I said hi. He did mine. He did a great job. He is the only one I know there based on my cath. 2 weeks ago. You will do well.
On October 27, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb
Who is your doctor for the cath tomorrow?
Barb Brooks Jim... I have no idea who the doctor is. Should I keep my eye open for anyone in particular?
On October 27, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb
We will take the Acela to Penn Station. We love the train. Coming back will likely be Acela First class unless it seems that it will be too hard. Plan B will be a car service. With Acela we will use Red Cap service at Penn station. It will be a grand adventure for sure! Please get a good night's sleep. The cardiac cath. process went smoothly for me at BWH. Wishing smooth sailing for you tomorrow too.
Barb Brooks Hey Jim... the train never occurred to me, but great choice!
On October 27, 2013...
Cheryl posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb big day is here been thinking about you will call later.
On October 27, 2013...
Adam Pick posted a note for Barb that says:
Hi Barb,
Thank you! My surgeon is Dr. Cohn's surgical son... Dr. Byrne.
Thanks for the site... it has been invaluable!
On October 27, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb
I was thinking of you! I was going to leave a message for you and you beat me. Well played! You will have a whole week of recovery on me. Good for you. All the best on your cardiac cath.tomorrow. Please let us know how you make out. Good luck with the traffic. You will do real well on Tuesday, I can feel it! Best.
Barb Brooks Thanks Jim! That traffic sure is terrible! What route do you take to NY... 95, or Mass Pike to 84 t ... Read more
Barb Brooks Thanks Jim! That traffic sure is terrible! What route do you take to NY... 95, or Mass Pike to 84 to the Merrit Parkway? Just curious. That's a bit of a ride for you. Thinking about how long that will be especially on your way home :-)
On October 27, 2013...
Mary Skopek posted a note for Barb that says:
Good luck! Just had my surgery Thursday and I'm going home later today. It's quite the experience but you'll do great! Prayers!
Barb Brooks Mary... your going home that early amazes me! Thanks for the prayers... they're much appreciated! A ... Read more
Barb Brooks Mary... your going home that early amazes me! Thanks for the prayers... they're much appreciated! All the best to you for your continued healing.
On October 27, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Barb that says:
Hi Barb,
We will certainly be thinking of you tomorrow and sending good vibes! I used to work at the Brigham as a nurse in the 80"s..I know you are in the best place!! By the time we go in, you will be home sweet home:) I know you will do great and I look forward to following your experience...we must all meet one day for a party and a glass of wine! All the best,
Barb Brooks Lynn!!! I don't think I'll be a total invalid when I get home, so I'm sure I'll have a chance to wis ... Read more
Barb Brooks Lynn!!! I don't think I'll be a total invalid when I get home, so I'm sure I'll have a chance to wish you well before you go. Party and wine sounds great... looking forward to it!
On October 27, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Barb that says:
Hi Barb, been following your posts. You'll do great. If I could do ohs, anyone can. Best wishes.
Barb Brooks Hi Jeff... I've been following you as well. Thanks for the well wishes!
On October 26, 2013...
Al Zebal posted a note for Barb that says:
Hi Barb,
I had AVR surgery at BWH this past January and I am doing well.That is a great place and rest assured,you will be in very good hands there .Coincidentally, I'm going to have that same hand surgery in the future.I can thank my Irish ancestors for that they say. Best of luck to you in your upcoming surgery,you'll be in my thoughts and prayers.
Al Zebal AVR,Maze 1/17/13
I have no doubt I'm in good hands, so I'm not worried at all. Happy to hear you're doing well. I've thanked my French ancestors many times for my Dupuytren's. The surgery was 90% successful, and hopefully it won't return.
Your kind words and thoughts are much appreciated!
On October 23, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb,
This is Carol Jackson. You have to remember I still have someone at the house with me(while husband at work) while I am recovering since I can't open prune juice bottles or prescription pill bottles. I can't open the washer/dryer drawers, reach up, reach down, push or pull open doors, lock a door or my chest and back will hurt. I have to sit in the back seat of a car, limit going upstairs to one time per day, etc.
Of course, after I wrote in my last journal entry, I had a terrible night sleeping and realized that I over did the previous 2 days and worrying about the pain ...so......I don't think your husband will send you back to work early! HA!
Barb Brooks Hi Carol... ouch! I wonder how long it takes to gain that strength back without any chest and back p ... Read more
Barb Brooks Hi Carol... ouch! I wonder how long it takes to gain that strength back without any chest and back pain? I'm going to follow your lead, and not overdo it!
My husband and I work together, by ourselves... so he's really going to miss me, and already wants me back as quickly as possible. I, on the other hand, am looking forward to a well-deserved break, and wishing surgery wasn't the reason for it!
On October 22, 2013...
debbie posted a note for Barb that says:
hi Barb
So what does it mean now? Is everything still as planned? Thinking about you lots lately and I hope for a quick recovery for you.
Barb Brooks Hi Debbie! Everything is good to go, unless I hear otherwise this week. Just want to get this over ... Read more
Barb Brooks Hi Debbie! Everything is good to go, unless I hear otherwise this week. Just want to get this over with. Hope you're feeling better... and no more hospital visits!
On October 21, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Barb that says:
Sounds like some of my testing days.... No food after 8pm, no food or drink in AM so hungry but afraid to eat anything between tets....starved.....finallyeat a huge dinner.
Something to look forward to...After surgery I've lost my appetite and can only eat 1/2 of the meal.
Barb Brooks Carol... It seems I'm hungry only when I can't eat! I woke up this morning not hungry at all. it's ... Read more
Barb Brooks Carol... It seems I'm hungry only when I can't eat! I woke up this morning not hungry at all. it's all in the mind :-)
On October 21, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Barb that says:
Hi Barb,
What an exhausting day! At least all the pre op is done so you can chill for the week. I go for mine in 2 weeks so we can complain together later:) Rest and eat well!
What I posted was the abridged version. I still have the cardiac cath next Monday. Not to worry... I'll be doing a lot of complaining after surgery, and since you offered, you may be my first 'victim'... LOL!
On October 21, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
Jeez, Barb, I am tired just reading this. I drove from Niantic, CT to Wellesley this AM after visiting my mother so I guess a few of us were traveling today! You really were put thru the wringer! Rest up. You certainly earned a good night's sleep. Great choice for dinner, btw!
Barb Brooks How does the DOT think that having 6 lanes at a toll booth immediately merging into 3 lanes makes an ... Read more
Barb Brooks How does the DOT think that having 6 lanes at a toll booth immediately merging into 3 lanes makes an ounce of sense? What worries me is the World Series. I hope they play away games next week, otherwise I fear double traffic nightmares! We have my husband's travels all worked out, to include commuting back and forth a few days, but if it takes him 3-4 hours to get home, those plans may change, and he will not be happy :-)
On October 20, 2013...
Jackie posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb, i have the aortic stenosis, surgery is the 29. I was brave and read Adam's book from cover to cover, I just wanted to know everything. I want no surprises! I am actually going to doctors office tomorrow to view a video of the surgery, he felt it was a good idea, and I know I can always walk out of the room:). Good luck with your surgery.
Barb Brooks Jackie, I think I would pass-out if I had to watch a video.
We're having surgery on the same day, bu ... Read more
Barb Brooks Jackie, I think I would pass-out if I had to watch a video.
We're having surgery on the same day, but with the time difference, I will be first :-)
Good luck with your surgery too!
On October 20, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Barb that says:
At first I thought I'd have to have my aortic valve replaced along with my aneurysm repair. After all the tests they decided the valve was good for another 15 - 20years so they had to only fix the aneurysm but the only way they can fix that is with a full sternotomy. My incision is 8 inches long.... But I had no choice. Hope they can do a mini sternotomy on you since you don't have the anuersym.
I hope so too! Whatever they do, I'm sure they're doing what's best for me. I don't have a choice either :-)
On October 20, 2013...
Deb Ziegler posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb,
I had a mini sternotomy for my mitral and tricuspid repairs. I could not have have it done robotically because two valves were involved. I know it is possible to have a mini sternotomy for an atrial valve......they do it at cleveland clinic all the time. Not sure about robotically. The procedure done on you will be the best for your particular anatomy.......it varies a lot from person to person. That is one reason for all the pre-op testing.
Stay strong and positive....you are almost through the worst part! You will be in my thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.
Apparently they will tell me which procedure I will have the night before surgery. I'm sure whatever it is will be the best for me. I'm confident in my Doctor... that's the best part.
I'm as positive as I can be. Thanks for the thoughts and prayers... they're appreciated!!
On October 20, 2013...
Rebecca S posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb, actually I had the sternotomy for my Mitral valve replacement. The surgeon added a valvuloplasty for my Tricuspid valve, but that was not in the original plans. I was told it was not possible to minimally invasive procedure for this. As you know I am 7 weeks and 4 days post op. Doing very well. Not many postings on this site for mitral valve replacements. Docs don't see a lot of Mitral stenosis except in the older crowd. It's those of us who had or probably had Rheumatic fever as a child, or untreated Strep throat.
Anyways, I am sure you will be on the recovery side quicker than you think. Those first weeks seemed to drag by.
Barb Brooks Rebecca... you're right... not a lot of mitral valve replacements. There have been a few repairs tho ... Read more
Barb Brooks Rebecca... you're right... not a lot of mitral valve replacements. There have been a few repairs though, and those who were the recipients have had an easy recovery.
Can't wait until I'm 7 weeks post op, and feeling as well as you!
On October 19, 2013...
Carol Foster posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb!
Almost 4 weeks post surgery for me so yes it truly does fly by (ok maybe the first week or two....not so much :-)
You sound like you are getting more and more comfortable with all this. I'm sure you'll be fine. If I can do it, you can do it!
I'm keeping tabs on you still, so keep up the good work! Sorry I couldn't speak with Dr. Byrne on your behalf but apparently being the Chief of Cardiac Surgery he's a busy guy and was called into emergency surgery that day so I saw someone else in his place.
BWH took great care of me (nurses are fabulous) and I'm sure they will take good care of you too!
Glad to hear you're doing so well! I can't believe it's been 4 weeks for you already. Where did that time go?
I'm sure I'll be fine. Just looking forward to getting home (and I haven't been there yet! LOL).
Hope you have a GREAT vacation!
On October 16, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Barb that says:
Hi Barb,
Nice post- thank you for getting us all ordered! Many of us are in the same week even...amazing...I feel so much better having company in this event! You sound like you are in a good place and getting stuff done. That's great! I will be following you,
Best,
Lynn
It DOES feel better having company, doesn't it! It's nice to have so many of us going in around the same time, and will be interesting to see the various outcomes. Hope yours is a huge success... I'll be following you as well!! Take care!
On October 16, 2013...
Dan Sinclair posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb,
Is this the fate of business owners or what? Please continue to keep us posted, we are so pulling for you. Take Care.
Well it seems to be that way, doesn't it? The nice thing is that we'll all be going through this together. You keep us posted as well... I'll be following your journal. Wish you all the best!
On October 16, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb
Great, great post! I read it to my wife and we laughed at your humor. You have a nice writing style. (hi to the cats). I am also hustling to get all the business work done and if I do it will be at the last minute with some items deferred. Do the best you can. Your health right now is job 1. Was at the Brigham yesterday. After cath, told that I have clear arteries which is good news. Safe travels up here. Please let me know if you have any questions at all about the area. All the best!
Thanks! I don't think there IS an optimal time for the surgery, but no time like the present. I will be at BWH on Monday for a few tests... then checking in the following Monday, with surgery on Tuesday. No turning back now :-) Good news about your test! Hope you have a safe trip to NY, and I'll be thinking about you during your surgery. Wishing you the best!
On October 11, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb
Thinking of you today. I hope all is well. Seems like we are all getting things done in preparation. Will be at BWH at 6:00 am on 10/15 for the cardiac cath. Hoping for radial and clear arteries. (will also accept groin and clear arteries!) Wishing you the very best as you get ready! Yo are doing the best thing, as I am, for our health.
I've actually been thinking about you as well. Getting ready, but don't know if I'll actually be "ready". Can't wait to get it over with, and I'm sure you feel the same. I'll be at BWH a week from Monday for a few tests, then the following Monday I will 'check in'.
Wishing you the very best!!
On October 10, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Barb that says:
Hi Barb
I will have my AVR in San Francisco a week (Nov.7) after you have yours in Boston. Jim has his 2 days before me, on Nov. 5th so we are all in the same adult education class! I really am happy to have company! My story is similar to yours- first I ever heard the words aortic stenosis was in May after my physical which was otherwise unremarkable. I started out severe! Who knew, not me!
I used to work as a nurse at BWH so I know for a fact you are in excellent hands!
I feel calmer as the day approaches- finally the waiting will be over. I will follow your journal- all the best!
Seems there are many similar stories... I'm glad I'm not alone, and will have a few people (including yourself) to take this journey with. I'm glad you agree I'm in excellent hands. BWH really is a nice place. I'm still trying to tie-up loose ends before I go in, so I'v been too busy to think about it, but now being only 2 weeks away I'm thinking about it more.
I wish you all the best as well!
On October 1, 2013...
Carol Foster posted a note for Barb that says:
Hi Barb!
It was great to talk to you on the phone in my hospital room the other day! Thanks for calling me :-) I've had you on my mind a lot lately and was wondering how you are doing. Please do not hesitate to ask if you have any other questions that I could help with. I have my post-op with Dr. Byrne on 10/10 so I'll be sure to tell him to take good care of you on the 29th! Hope you are feeling better about things! I'm doing great! Best wishes!
Barb Brooks Carol! You've been VERY quiet. How are you??
On September 29, 2013...
Jean Cook posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb
Wednesday the 2nd of Oct will mark 6 mo since I had mitral valve replacement with a cow valve. Not sure if you are having repair or replacement. We have a manual recliner that we had well before my surgery. My husband put a end table next to it for when I came home. I was in the hospital for 6 days. I used the recliner in the day but slept in my bed,up 12 stairs, from day one. Feel free to read my journal on here. I have a lot more energy since the surgery and cardiac rehab. Bring your own pillow to the hospital. Get some sport bras and Pj's that open in the front . You will feel better having your back side covered when you are walking in your room or in the halls.
Barb Brooks Hi Jean... glad you're doing so well! I have recently paid attention and realize I don't have nearly ... Read more
Barb Brooks Hi Jean... glad you're doing so well! I have recently paid attention and realize I don't have nearly the energy I had a year ago, so hopefully I'll feel just as good as you do when this is all over. I'm starting to get things ready, and appreciate the tips!
On September 27, 2013...
lori ann marchand posted a note for Barb that says:
Barbara my thoughts and prayers are with you and your husband .. stay strong and you have the st. Laurent blood in you so i know you are a fighter ..
Barb Brooks Thanks Lori Ann!!! A bit nerve-wracking, but I'm sure I'll be fine. I appreciate your thoughts and ... Read more
Barb Brooks Thanks Lori Ann!!! A bit nerve-wracking, but I'm sure I'll be fine. I appreciate your thoughts and prayers!!
On September 22, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Barb that says:
BARB!!!!!!!!
Glad you are getting things done ahead of time and reading journals. They are very reassuring and really help to know what to expect. Just to let your husband know---you WILL get emotional during recovery especially when you get frustrated, so he'll need to be patient with the patient. (My poor mom).
Not sure how much of my journal you read (because it's long) but I did a Revocable Trust with a Pour Over Will before surgery. Felt good to be covered just in case something went wrong, but I knew nothing would and you just have to concentrate on the positive. This surgery is saving your life ---literally. Pain is plenty manageable and trust in your Dr.s, nurses and heart surgeon. This is what they do for a living and they are good at it, so you will have no problem. Smile, think positive, know that you are well-loved by family and friends, and things are going to be great.
Lots of smiles and positive thoughts. Family and friends are invaluable. Keep visits short while you're in the hospital. Though really enjoyable, they tire you out more than you think.
Use the hell out of the spirometer, get lots of protein and calcium for healing. Laxatives and stool softener are your best friends (I'm also eating lots of fiber, drinking warm prune juice, and eating yogurt to help with bowel movement.) Burping, farting and pooping makes room for food to heal.
Don't worry. You are going to do great.
On September 16, 2013...
Debbie posted a note for Barb that says:
Just read your entry for today. Wow 3 weeks back to work would be awesome. I do not have a will I think I will do a living will on line if there is such a thing. If I tell my husband and kids now that I want a will they will think I am depressed and say no.(Not that I have much to leave anyway). I have a recliner it is brand new but manual should I get a electric one?. Today at work I was walking down a flight of stairs and by the time I got back up I was so out of Breath. I think that was a sign from god telling me I am doing the right thing. You, Carol and I have to take this journey together maybe one year we can meet and laugh about this. Are you on facebook?
Barb Brooks Hi Debbie... I don't know if a power recliner is necessary. I tried our manual one and could barely ... Read more
Barb Brooks Hi Debbie... I don't know if a power recliner is necessary. I tried our manual one and could barely get out of it without surgery. If you're that much out of breath - it's time. That's the way I feel when I walk up 3 flights of stairs! Yes, I am on Facebook. I tried looking for you, but couldn't find you. Also tried under "Yager" just in case it could hear me... nope :-) In another year we may be laughing... but I'm not laughing yet :-)
On September 15, 2013...
Rebecca S posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb, it sounds like you are going through all the emotions and the thoughts we have gone through. I made sure my will was easily accessible. And the password to my checking acct. and the recliner....we rented it. At first I thought I couldn't use it but decided to keep it a bit longer. Not comfy at night. My butt gets petrified.but during the day it's a nice place to nap.
Many times I cried and said I didn't want to go through it. If I hadn't I would've gotten pulmonary hypertension and congestive heart failure....a lot worse to go through. It's a miracle the stenotic valve was found in April. We were not looking for it.
I worried about the same things......the pain, getting through it not as much. More focus on the other side......and recovery.
But now it's more than 2 weeks post op, and there are still issues, but I am on the other side. You will be, too, before you know it. What is your surgery date so we can "ride along with you"?
Barb Brooks Rebecca, thanks for writing... I really appreciate it! I know many others have gone through it, and ... Read more
Barb Brooks Rebecca, thanks for writing... I really appreciate it! I know many others have gone through it, and I'm glad I found this site with nice people such as yourself to help me out. Happy to see SO many on 'the other side'... helps me realize there's a light at the end of my tunnel.
My surgery date is October 29th. You sound like you're doing great, with the exception of those minor issues... all the best to you!
Barb Brooks
On September 15, 2013...
Adam Pick posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb,
You are going to do great! Just take it one step at a time.
If you need anything, please let me know.
Keep on tickin!
Barb Brooks Thanks, Adam. Happy to be part of this community, with lots of helpful people and great resources. ... Read more
Barb Brooks Thanks, Adam. Happy to be part of this community, with lots of helpful people and great resources. Thanks for all your efforts!
Barb
On September 15, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb:
I will have my mitral valve repair at Mt. Sinai with Dr. Adams. It is a tricky little bi-leaflet Barlow's disease mitral valve repair. He might be in there 3 days repairing the poor little fellow! I saw the echo on a large LCD screen when I visited him in July. It looked like a blown sail in an America's Cup race! He is a world class go to guy for complex MVR. I am fortunate he is just down the road a piece from me. He is a BWH alumni.
Yes, those relaxation apps can really work if you get a good one. I do get a great night's sleep because it brings you into a mentally and physically relaxed state. You can also use it at 3AM when your eyes pop open and your mind is racing....
I will have the cath. done at BWH.
And yes, 6-7 weeks seems endless but when the day comes we will wonder where the heck did the time go!
There's no possible way I could look at my echo without passing out! I was sitting right there though when the Dr. was going over it... and I think my husband may have taken a peek :-) When I had my stress echo test I had them promise they would turn off all the bleeps and bloops, and they did. Just the thought of it is like nails on a chalkboard to me... but I am getting a bit better!
They're having me come in a week before (for some other tests), and have the cath done the day before, which I don't understand. Apparently the cath determines exactly what type of surgery (less invasive, etc) you are going to have... so I really won't know until the night before. I find that a bit odd.
Downloaded "Deep Relaxation - Relax and Sleep". Going to give it a try tonight. Thanks for that!
Barb Brooks
On September 15, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb, get one of those grabbers, it will be your friend for a few weeks. Also, baby shampoo, it was good being able to wash my hair and not worry about shampoo getting into my eyes during showers. They won't keep you asleep for 4 days, but they did a good job of keeping me out of pain. Had my surgery 5 weeks ago.
Barb Brooks Thanks, Jeff... I will do just that! Good idea about the shampoo as well.
Barb Brooks Thanks, Jeff... I will do just that! Good idea about the shampoo as well.
Sounds like you are doing well! If you think of any other good tips, feel free to pass them along... they are all appreciated! Barb
On September 15, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Barb that says:
Hey Barb:
Great post! I have 7 weeks to go so we are in the same graduation class I figure. Good luck as you get your pre-op stuff done. I am working on my to do list also. (although, as a male I have to tell you I am much less ambitious! It must be genetic.) BWH is where my cardiologist is located and I have a great deal of respect for the hospital. I love the fact that they have a separate center for cardiology.
Yes, I know all about the "night thoughts". I have downloaded free Silva relaxation apps to my iPhone. They play for 15-30 minutes and really relax me for sleep. Perhaps some type of relaxation apps might be helpful? Wishing you all the best.
Thanks for the relaxation app suggestion. I AM going to download them. Listening to them for 15-30 minutes is better than being awake almost all night.
6 - 7 weeks seems like a distance... but it's right around the corner! All the best to you, too!
Barb
On September 13, 2013...
Janet O. posted a note for Barb that says:
Barb - I almost closed FB and thought I need to see what the family was up to & low and behold. Glad to read you are taking care of this matter now. Since your surgery is October 29th I recommend you prepare your body now so that recovery is fast and easy. I'll do some research for you & let you know what I find. Love you. In Health - Janet
Barb Brooks Thanks, Jan... Love you, too! Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
On September 11, 2013...
Debbie JAeger posted a note for Barb that says:
Hi Barb my name is Debbie and I have the same thing. A tee proved that I was born with 2 leaflets instead of 3. My surgery is on Sept 26 I am so ready to get this over with. I did the same thing shortness of breath and used the excuse I am getting older and heavier. Even when I went to the surgeon he said he could not believe I was not having any symptoms. I thought if I told him I was fine he would say come back in 6 months like all the others did but no not this one. Good Luck I will be thinking of you.
Barb Brooks Hi Debbie! I was also born with 2 leaflets. Our stories are very similar. You're having surgery a ... Read more
Barb Brooks Hi Debbie! I was also born with 2 leaflets. Our stories are very similar. You're having surgery a month before I do, so I'll be monitoring your journal closely. Hopefully you can share what a breeze it was :-) Thinking of you... and good luck!!
I am thinking of you and your husband today. I hope the surgery went well and that you are progressing in ICU. All the best, Barb.