Aubrey posted a note for Carol that says:
Great progress Carol. The walking is great and keep up with the pain meds as needed. It should get better every week and you should see the difference in your ability to walk and not get winded. Keep us posted as you continue to progress.
Carol Jackson Aubrey,
I so have enjoyed following your progress. You have been an inspiration to me. Today it raine ... Read more
Carol Jackson Aubrey,
I so have enjoyed following your progress. You have been an inspiration to me. Today it rained so I got less steps in then I wanted. Hopefully tomorrow I will make it up. I had my first really good sleep last night. It was wonderful.
Thanks for your encouragement.
Carol
On October 25, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Carol that says:
Watch out or they'll put you to work too
On October 25, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol, great to hear you're doing so well. Glad to read your surgeon saved your valve, I had the same good luck. I'm going into week 11 and I have to go cut the grass. Wishing you the best.
Carol Jackson Jeff,
Isn't that great that our surgeons were able to save each of our valves! I'll take another 15-2 ... Read more
Carol Jackson Jeff,
Isn't that great that our surgeons were able to save each of our valves! I'll take another 15-20 years with my bicuspid valve! So at week 11 you are mowing lawn? That's great. That's helpful to know what I might be able to do at week 11. Wishing you the best too!
Carol
On October 24, 2013...
sharon posted a note for Carol that says:
Did you have stenosis?
On October 24, 2013...
John and Judy posted a note for Carol that says:
Good morning, Carol. We had no idea just what was happening with you and just found all of this info! You are on the prayer list at Trinity--we just did not know the particulars. You, Doug, and Meredith will certainly be in our thoughts and prayers as you continue a good recovery.
Fondly, John and Judy
Carol Jackson Thanks John and Judy for your kind thoughts and prayers. I'm glad to be on the other side of this mir ... Read more
Carol Jackson Thanks John and Judy for your kind thoughts and prayers. I'm glad to be on the other side of this miraculous surgery and I'm on the road to recovery.
Carol
On October 23, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Carol that says:
Well, well, well, someone is healing! Carol, this is a terrific progress report. So happy for you. I hope this week is a great week of recovery for you! Cheers.
Carol Jackson JIm,
Thanks. After I wrote that last entry, I had a bad night with a lot of soreness becasue I think ... Read more
Carol Jackson JIm,
Thanks. After I wrote that last entry, I had a bad night with a lot of soreness becasue I think I did too much the 2 previous days. The surgery and recovery truly is a miracle.
Carol
On October 23, 2013...
Jackie posted a note for Carol that says:
I am also so glad you are doing so well, I can't wait to be there. Keep us updated.
Carol Jackson Jackie, You will do great!It will be good for you to be on the other side of surgery!
Carol
On October 23, 2013...
Barb Brooks posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol... glad to hear you're doing so well! I'm hoping my husband doesn't read your journal, as he will take that as a sign that I will be back to work two weeks post surgery. I'm hoping for a bit of rest and relaxation, and am also hoping I do as well as you!
On October 22, 2013...
Lynn ennis posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol, I can't believe how far you have come in just 2 weeks! I would not have thought it was possible to be so well. It's such a huge surgery...2 weeks before I have it. All the best for a great recovery.
Carol Jackson Thanks Lynn. I didn't think I would be doing what i'm doing 2 weeks after surgery, but they really pu ... Read more
Carol Jackson Thanks Lynn. I didn't think I would be doing what i'm doing 2 weeks after surgery, but they really push you in the hospital to get moving, etc. There are little things I can't do...open prescription pill bottles, open fruit juice bottles, open and close doors, etc. ..so I have to have some one around.
I will be following you....remember eat right, take Vit C, exercise before your big day.
Carol
On October 22, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol, great to hear how well you are doing. One lesson learned, as you feel better and better remember to pace yourself, it is so easy to over do things. Take care and keep moving, it's liberating.
Carol Jackson Jeff O,
Boy that's for sure. After I wrote that entry I had a terrible night with pain in right chest ... Read more
Carol Jackson Jeff O,
Boy that's for sure. After I wrote that entry I had a terrible night with pain in right chest and back because I over did 2 days before. I've laid low today and tried not to reach for anything.......I hope for a good night's sleep tonight. Thanks for all your encouragement.
On October 22, 2013...
Shelley posted a note for Carol that says:
Wow, Carol! What fantastic news!
Carol Jackson Ya, it's great! This surgery and recovery is truly a miracle! Still have a long way to go....there's ... Read more
Carol Jackson Ya, it's great! This surgery and recovery is truly a miracle! Still have a long way to go....there's so many little things I can't do yet since if I try to do it, it hurts my chest and back.
On October 22, 2013...
Anne Raftis posted a note for Carol that says:
Hi Carol,
Sorry I am so late checking in but school has been hectic. Conferences are tomorrow again and we had them last Wednesday.
Hopefully you are getting stronger each day and feeling more like yourself.
Ruth Ann Gostomski wanted me to tell you hello and hopes that your recovery is going well.
Please let me know how things are. I am anxious hear how you are doing. Take care and continue to feel better.
Anne
Carol Jackson Thanks Ann. Tell Ruth Ann hello too. Good luck with your conferences...I hear its a terrible schedule ... Read more
Carol Jackson Thanks Ann. Tell Ruth Ann hello too. Good luck with your conferences...I hear its a terrible schedule. Check out my latest blog journal entry for update.
Carol
On October 22, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol
What a wonderful post! I am so glad to see how well you are doing. I remember when you were heading to the hospital. I am amazed at your progress. When do you start your cardiac rehab and visit your surgeon? Great news!
Carol Jackson I am waiting to hear about cardio rehab. My GP sends Mayo info to them and then cardio rehab decides ... Read more
Carol Jackson I am waiting to hear about cardio rehab. My GP sends Mayo info to them and then cardio rehab decides when I start and how much rehab I will get. I won't see my surgeon again, but will meet with my new cardiologist 6 weeks out of surgery.
On October 21, 2013...
Susan Smith, Florida posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol I have been following your Journal from the beginning without making any contributions, but now I would like to ask a question and I don't want you to be offended. I too am a bicuspid aortic value patient on a 6 month rollercoaster. My cardiologist has been loosing weight and so far I have lost 35 pounds and wondered if you had to do any weight loss prior to surgery? It is difficult since I can not do much exercising. So my weight loss program is portion control and reducing carbohydrates drastically (I do love those carbs). Your journal is inspiring. If you do not want to answer that is okay.
Carol Jackson Hi Susan,
Do you have an aneurysm too? I have been diligent at working out(cardio, low weights, swimm ... Read more
Carol Jackson Hi Susan,
Do you have an aneurysm too? I have been diligent at working out(cardio, low weights, swimming,etc. 4-5 times a week.) all my life. I go to WW, i try to cut out gluten and 1 month before my surgery I did a 7 day monitored detox that I had done before. It has always been difficult for me to lose weight but I felt I was in the best condition I could be in for me before surgery. Wow, That's great you lost that weight, I wish I could have done that before surgery. No one said that I had to lose weight before surgery. Hope this helps. Please stay in touch with me if you have any other questions. I'd like to hear more what the Dr. plans to do with your valve. Have you set up your journal yet? I know all about roller coaster rides and I'm now glad I'm on the other side.(less worrying)
On October 19, 2013...
Cousin Marge posted a note for Carol that says:
Hi Carol,
We are on our way home from Atlanta after babysitting our 2 yr old & 5 mo old grandchildren all week. I didn't have the time or the energy to read your journal. But I am sooooo happy to read that you are back home and making good progress :-). You have certainly been in my thoughts and I was anxious to read the updates. With the history of your dad and my dad this ordeal wasn't easy for you or your family. You will continue to be in our prayers for a complete recovery. Just remember to pamper yourself!
Carol Jackson Thanks Marge. The 2 of you are busy grandparents! Yes, I will pamper myself. It is hard to be told I ... Read more
Carol Jackson Thanks Marge. The 2 of you are busy grandparents! Yes, I will pamper myself. It is hard to be told I can't do things but its for my own good. My helper Kathy has had to hold me down! I will be writing you a long email with more details. I just posted a new part of my journal. Cousin Patty just stopped by today with tortilla soup and we had a nice visit.
Carol
On October 18, 2013...
Judi Miller posted a note for Carol that says:
Thanks for the message and words of encouragement Carol. Glad to read you are doing well. Can only hope and pray I do as well as you through the surgery and recovery. Two weeks from tonight I should be in the ICU and beginning the recovery process. Nervous but also want to get on with my life too so I want this done!
On October 17, 2013...
Ros Fisher-Smith posted a note for Carol that says:
Glad to hear you are home and on the mend.
Carol Jackson Thanks, Ros. I'm even off my pain meds. Countdown til you retire?!
Carol
On October 17, 2013...
Cheryl S. posted a note for Carol that says:
So glad to hear you're home!!
Carol Jackson Cheryl,
Yes , it's great to be home. Thanks so much for the beautiful flowers which arrived today. I ... Read more
Carol Jackson Cheryl,
Yes , it's great to be home. Thanks so much for the beautiful flowers which arrived today. I loved your pics visiting NE.
On October 17, 2013...
Cheryl Tevis posted a note for Carol that says:
Hi, Carol,
So wonderful that you're home again! I hope you're able to enjoy the lovely autumn through your window, and soon are able to be out.
I took your advice, and now have a new vehicle, with bluetooth for my phone. It is great!
Take care, and when you're settled in, I'll try to set up a time to stop by. Or, depending upon your recovery pace, I'll pick you up for lunch.
--Cheryl
Carol Jackson Cheryl,
That would be great. Just give me a call. I'm so glad you got a car with Bluetooth ...makes l ... Read more
Carol Jackson Cheryl,
That would be great. Just give me a call. I'm so glad you got a car with Bluetooth ...makes life so much easier.
Carol
On October 16, 2013...
Barb posted a note for Carol that says:
So glad you are home and have a wonderful nurse--- may you sleep deeply and rest comfortably. We continue to hold you up in our prayers!
Love you!
Barb and Gary
Carol Jackson Barb ,
Thanks for all your prayers. I'm getting stronger everyday , in fact I had my first outing to ... Read more
Carol Jackson Barb ,
Thanks for all your prayers. I'm getting stronger everyday , in fact I had my first outing to the club this evening!
Carol
On October 16, 2013...
Barb Brooks posted a note for Carol that says:
Hi Carol,
Nice to see you're home. I'm going to heed your advice and make sure to take all the pain meds. You're on the road to recovery... all the best to you!
Carol Jackson Thanks Barb. I will be following you as you go into surgery and recovery. What would we do without th ... Read more
Carol Jackson Thanks Barb. I will be following you as you go into surgery and recovery. What would we do without this web site. It is not only informative but comforting. Thoughts and prayers. Carol
On October 16, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol
So happy to see that you are home. Pleased that you have folks with you during the day. You sure have a full set of activities during the day. Keep your recovery routine up. I hope you are able to settle in and get a good amount of sleep at night. All the best!
Carol Jackson It's a full set of activities but pretty exciting after the surgery. I am really looking foward to a ... Read more
Carol Jackson It's a full set of activities but pretty exciting after the surgery. I am really looking foward to a GOOD night sleep.
Isn't it nice to hear that "the arteries are clear"! You are one step closer to being on the other side of surgery.
On October 16, 2013...
Allyson posted a note for Carol that says:
Hi Carol,
Have been thinking about you all the time! Glad I finally logged on to find you back home! Hurrah!!
Take care,
Relax and enjoy the ride to recovery!
Next port of call, London!
Love Allyson & family
Carol Jackson Allyson,
Yes, I'm home from the hospital and slowly recovering. I will email a reponse about your ex ... Read more
Carol Jackson Allyson,
Yes, I'm home from the hospital and slowly recovering. I will email a reponse about your exciting new adventure at the end of the year. Say 'Hi" to all your family and give a big hug to your grandchild.
love, Carol
On October 16, 2013...
Debbie Milligan posted a note for Carol that says:
Hi Carol,
So glad you are home. Give me a call when you feel up to having a visitor.
Carol Jackson I'm glad to be home. Thanks, Deb. I will call or text you. I might ask a favor of you down the road. ... Read more
Carol Jackson I'm glad to be home. Thanks, Deb. I will call or text you. I might ask a favor of you down the road.
Carol
On October 16, 2013...
Colleen Walter posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol,
Been thinking and praying for you. It is so wonderful how well things have progressed. Getting used to being home will be the next big challenge, but I know you will be a trooper. Do you have a special diet to follow? I have just made some vegetable beef stew and would love to drop it over at your place.
Carol Jackson Colleen, Thanks. I just need to eat healthy and small portions. The veg. soup sounds wonderful.
Caro ... Read more
Carol Jackson Colleen, Thanks. I just need to eat healthy and small portions. The veg. soup sounds wonderful.
Carol
On October 16, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Carol that says:
Very glad to read you are home now Carol. You did it!
Carol Jackson Lynn, I did it! It's great to be on the other side after I realize all the worrying i did for the las ... Read more
Carol Jackson Lynn, I did it! It's great to be on the other side after I realize all the worrying i did for the last 5 years. Say, that recliner is a godsend since it is hard to roll over and be on either side due to the tubes and later the incisions healing. I will be following you in your journey.
Carol
On October 16, 2013...
Mary Bishop posted a note for Carol that says:
So glad you are home. Take it easy. Each day will get better. God is with you all the way.
Aubrey posted a note for Carol that says:
You must have been special, getting walker!! I had to do it pushing a wheel chair for the first day or so. Course they had a bunch of drain stuff and other things connected to me. Also, never let the heart pillow far from my reach. Keep positive.
Carol Jackson Those drain tubes are terrible. My heart pillow goes with me everywhere. You continue to stay positve ... Read more
Carol Jackson Those drain tubes are terrible. My heart pillow goes with me everywhere. You continue to stay positve too.
On October 15, 2013...
Mary Cairy posted a note for Carol that says:
Congratulations, Carol. I am so thrilled for you. You will be exhausted after that long drive home AND all the going home prep. Be "gentle" to yourself for a few days. God be with you!
Love,
Mary Cairy
Carol Jackson Cousin Mary,
Great to hear from you several times and thanks for the RN pointers! I'm glad to me on t ... Read more
Carol Jackson Cousin Mary,
Great to hear from you several times and thanks for the RN pointers! I'm glad to me on the other side of the surgery. It truly is a miracle. God is gracious.
Love,
Carol
On October 15, 2013...
Leslei Holtzclaw posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol,
So glad everything went well for you. Glad you are home! Get plenty of rest when you need to and take care of you!! Bless you! :D
Carol Jackson Thanks Leslie,
I'm glad they made me stay one more day,but now glad I'm home. I got off pain meds 2 d ... Read more
Carol Jackson Thanks Leslie,
I'm glad they made me stay one more day,but now glad I'm home. I got off pain meds 2 days after coming home since they made me so sick. I only take Tylenol. I will look forward to following your posts for your future surgery.
Carol
On October 15, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Carol that says:
Glad to read you're going home. Getting home is a great step in the journey.
Carol Jackson Thanks, Jeff O. You really have to think things through what you can and cant do. I appreciate all yo ... Read more
Carol Jackson Thanks, Jeff O. You really have to think things through what you can and cant do. I appreciate all your ideas and advice since you've been through it.
Carol
On October 15, 2013...
Kelly posted a note for Carol that says:
Welcome home Carol! I've really appreciated reading your posts. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Carol Jackson Thanks Kelly. Yes, it's nice to be on the other side of the surgery. I'm even off all pain meds excep ... Read more
Carol Jackson Thanks Kelly. Yes, it's nice to be on the other side of the surgery. I'm even off all pain meds except Tylenol 2 days after coming home.
Carol
On October 15, 2013...
Kathryn & Ron posted a note for Carol that says:
So good to hear the good news that you are home. Take it easy and let everyone "wait" on you as you have been through a lot. Many prayers continue for you at church and at home. GOD IS GOOD!
Carol Jackson It is hard to be 'waited on'. Thanks Cousin Kathryn, Ron and your church family. Oh give thanks unto ... Read more
Carol Jackson It is hard to be 'waited on'. Thanks Cousin Kathryn, Ron and your church family. Oh give thanks unto the Lord for He is good and His mercy endures forever. Ps118:1
On October 15, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol
Wonderful, wonderful news! I am so glad you have headed home! Am also delighted you have a new, long lease on life. Heal well this week. Best!
On October 15, 2013...
Kathy Brammeier posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol,
I was in Chicago from Thursday to Monday and didn't do much with email, but you were certainly in my prayers. I was so happy to hear that you are now home. Your mom called and left a detailed message on our machine about your surgery so I got the update. I pray that each day continues to bring new healing. Blessings!
Carol Jackson Thanks, Kathy. Doing better each day. God is good.
On October 15, 2013...
Shelley posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol, I am so glad you are home. Take care of yourself and you will be back swimming laps instead of walking them! I really miss you!
Carol Jackson Shelley, I miss you and the others in the swim class too. It will be awhile until I can get in the po ... Read more
Carol Jackson Shelley, I miss you and the others in the swim class too. It will be awhile until I can get in the pool.
On October 15, 2013...
Karen posted a note for Carol that says:
Hi Carol, Welcome home! You've had an amazing journey and we're grateful to Meredith for giving us progress reports! You continue to be in my prayers. Hugs, Karen
Carol Jackson Thanks for all your prayers, Karen. I really appreciate all my HS friendships more than ever(even tho ... Read more
Carol Jackson Thanks for all your prayers, Karen. I really appreciate all my HS friendships more than ever(even though some of us have not seen each other in many years!) Yes, Meredith is a special duaghter. I think I will keep her!
On October 14, 2013...
Mary Vesey - Santa Cruz California posted a note for Carol that says:
Hi Carol
I had purchased Adam Pick's book on Patients guild to Valve Survey and came across your story. I hope you are at home resting comfortably. I am 62 years old and am facing valve replacement due to a bicuspid valve in the next month or 2. I just had the angiogram and I won't have to face bypass. I meet with the heart surgeon next week. It is really good to be informed and have support. God bless you in your recovery.
On October 14, 2013...
Becky Muselman posted a note for Carol that says:
If I read correctly, you should be at home by now! AWESOME!!! My prayers are still coming your way for a speedy home recovery! You know how to get ahold of me if there is ANYTHING I can do for you!! Hugs!!
Carol Jackson Becky,
Thanks for all your prayers..Just happy to be on the other side of surgery.
On October 14, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Carol that says:
Jeez, I guess you did light the candle! Great progress on your walking. Glad you can start eating more food. Also glad you love the hospital. Best.
On October 14, 2013...
Lewis Mellman posted a note for Carol that says:
Dear Carol,
I am very glad to learn that your recovery is going well. I've been printing out your journal updates for your Aunt Ruth Ann, and she appreciates keeping updated on your progress. Keep up the good work and get home soon!
Love, Lewis
Carol Jackson Lewis,
Thanks Lewis. I'm so glad that Aunt Ruth Ann and you could follow this with me. Doug is back a ... Read more
Carol Jackson Lewis,
Thanks Lewis. I'm so glad that Aunt Ruth Ann and you could follow this with me. Doug is back at work so I have someone coming into the home for 2 weeks to help with...opening the fridge door, getting shoes on, etc. driving, etc.
Take care,
Carol
On October 14, 2013...
Margie Rowland posted a note for Carol that says:
Debbie Milligan sent me your journal. Glad to hear everything is going so well. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Hope the three of us can do lunch when you are ready.
Carol Jackson Thanks Margie for your prayers. Ya, it's been a whirlwind but glad to be home. That would be fun to g ... Read more
Carol Jackson Thanks Margie for your prayers. Ya, it's been a whirlwind but glad to be home. That would be fun to get together.
Carol
On October 14, 2013...
Mary Cairy posted a note for Carol that says:
WOW, I'm so happy that your surgery is behind you, Carol, and that your recovery seems to be speeding along. Keep up the good work and be patient with the "down" days because they will happen. You have been and will continue to be in my prayers. May God continue to be with you & your family.
Carol Jackson Thanks Mary. It was quite anordeal but glad to be on the other side of the surgery. I got off all pai ... Read more
Carol Jackson Thanks Mary. It was quite anordeal but glad to be on the other side of the surgery. I got off all pain meds except Tylenol 2 days after surgery. They made me sick. I got your card today while mom was with me at the house. Thanks.
Carol
On October 14, 2013...
John & Elaine Hollen posted a note for Carol that says:
Carol, So glad everything has gone well for you! Sounds as if they want to be certain everything is perfect before "kicking you out", which is awesome. Take care and we will talk to you soon.
Carol Jackson John, Elaine and Kelsey,
It's wonderful to have family. We appreciate how Kelsey is helping out Gra ... Read more
Carol Jackson John, Elaine and Kelsey,
It's wonderful to have family. We appreciate how Kelsey is helping out Grandma Ruth, especially during these months. You raised a fine young woman. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers.
On October 14, 2013...
Julie posted a note for Carol that says:
My Dear Friend,
It has been wonderful following your amazing progress. So relieved the hospital isn't trying to get rid of you too soon. One step at a time and know that my love,thoughts and prayers are with you.
And remember...."The Class of '73 Rules!"
Carol Jackson Julie,
Thanks dear HS friend for your love and prayers. So glad that Meredith could keep everyone inf ... Read more
Carol Jackson Julie,
Thanks dear HS friend for your love and prayers. So glad that Meredith could keep everyone informed. I think I will keep her!
On October 14, 2013...
Cheryl S. posted a note for Carol that says:
So glad your recovery has been going well. Meredith did a great job with the updates. Hope everything continues to go well and that you get to go home soon!! Keeping you in my prayers!
Carol Jackson Yes, didn't Meredith do a nice job! I couldn't have done it with Doug and Meredith by my side. I thi ... Read more
Carol Jackson Yes, didn't Meredith do a nice job! I couldn't have done it with Doug and Meredith by my side. I think I get to go home tonight(Mon ) the surgery was a miracle and they were able to just fix the aneurysm but the kept my own valve in place. God I good!
On October 14, 2013...
Kent Vaudt posted a note for Carol that says:
Praise God you are doing well, God is awesome. You will get stronger every day, the worst part is over. I will keep praying for you daily that Jesus may strength you body soul and spirit.
Blessing and Peace
Carol Jackson Does this kind of bring back memories? I do have trouble sleeping for any longer than 3 hours. I hope ... Read more
Carol Jackson Does this kind of bring back memories? I do have trouble sleeping for any longer than 3 hours. I hope that improves.
On October 13, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Carol that says:
There are just so many fun things to do after surgery. By the way, I had the best red jello in the universe in the ICU after surgery.
Carol Jackson Ha! Mine has been the orange sherbet and a glass of ice chips!
On October 13, 2013...
Marge posted a note for Carol that says:
GREAT JOB, Carol! I knew you would do well, but I must say that I was always happy to read it in the updates. Thank Meredith for keeping us informed; she did a nice job. I'm so happy you have the hardest part behind you and your family. Now be patient with the recovery process because you will have a few difficult days. It's such a fine balance pushing your body to do the recommended exercises and not over doing it.
P.S. Ya gotta LOVE those guardian angels ;-).
Carol Jackson Cousin Marge,
Didn't Meredith do a nice job on the journaling?! It was so nice to have her there with ... Read more
Carol Jackson Cousin Marge,
Didn't Meredith do a nice job on the journaling?! It was so nice to have her there with Doug...they were real troopers and did so much. Phil and my mom were there to cheer me on. I will be in touch with you about more details. Thanks for all your prayers. Carol
On October 13, 2013...
Cindy Manker posted a note for Carol that says:
That is great news. you must feel a lot better free of those tubes. hope you get to come home soon. Love ya, Cindy
Carol Jackson Thanks Cindy! Things are a lot different for me compared to 21/2 months ago at the reunion!
I so have enjoyed following your progress. You have been an inspiration to me. Today it raine ... Read more
I so have enjoyed following your progress. You have been an inspiration to me. Today it rained so I got less steps in then I wanted. Hopefully tomorrow I will make it up. I had my first really good sleep last night. It was wonderful.
Thanks for your encouragement.
Carol