Glad to hear the good report Chuck. We are wishing you all the best with a speedy recovery. Take it easy and don't get to far ahead of yourself. You will be in our prayers.
Jeff
Chuck Holmgreen Over did it by a little yesterday - enought to be a good reminder that I recently had some pretty maj ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Over did it by a little yesterday - enought to be a good reminder that I recently had some pretty major work done! I feel good this morning though.
On March 20, 2012...
We are thinking and saying prayers for you today! I know that you are going to come out of this like a ROCKSTAR!!
On March 20, 2012...
Prayers to you my new friend Chuck!!! It's such a pleasure to work with such a HAPPY soul as yourself. You can see from a mile away that you have so much love in your heart for Ramona and Anthony ~~~ I can't imagine what you will be like with your heart working better! WOW! Watch out for BIG BIG hearted Chuck! I am filing my day with thoughts for you and wishing you a restful recovery! Gods Speed!
On March 20, 2012...
Good luck Chuck!!! Time to be a rock star. Soon you will be on your way to recovery!!
Will keep you in my thoughts today.
Jimmy Johnson
On March 20, 2012...
Chuck,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family today. This is the beginning of another wonderful chapter in all of your lives with many more fantastic years to come. I wish you a speedy recovery and do as the doctors tell you but importantly as you wife tells you (HAHAHA). Mary
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Adam. I am now officially ticking. Guess that means I didn't get the rolex valve!!
On March 19, 2012...
Sending you lots of love and prayers of blessings over you, the surgeons, Moni, Anthony and all those who love you sweetie! It is going to be a magnificent new beginning for you...I know it! You are awesome and we look forward to your quick and full recovery! Love you do much!
Mandy, Gabriela and Analisa
On March 19, 2012...
Beautifully written chuck. It's a marvel & you'll love it
Best to all of you
Namcu. " poem fairy" Friedman. St Louis mo.
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Nancy. I cannot write a poem, however it was amazing how easily that post came out.
On March 19, 2012...
Gee the time got away with me. Didn't realize your day is up. I want to wish you good luck and I'll be saying a prayer for you. Hope all goes ok. Pretty soon you will be seeing everyone on the other side of the mountain. That will be great. Keep us all posted.
For the long haul
Linda H
Thank you for saying 'other side of the mountain'. That sounds a whole lot better than 'over the hill.' Still we're here for you and your long haul.
On March 19, 2012...
I suspect the calm will settle in shortly. Even if the butterflies stay, you will be fine. The anticipation is way worse than the reality. It is all very manageable. I mean even Nancy did it!!!!!!
Good luck tomorrow Chuck. I mean that, no matter what you print about me....
It's funny how many times I've quoted things you've said that I really liked.
The rest - Nancy made me do it!
I'm glad you've kept your sense of humor. I know mine has helped me tremendously.
On March 19, 2012...
Best of luck tomorrow! My surgery is 4/11 so I'm really counting on all of you right before me to have an easy time of it ;)
I'll be thinking about you.
Kerry
I wish you the very best on 4/11 and by reading our journals, you will be surprised as how much of what happens meets with your expectations.
I say that because this site took away my fears of the unknown. Those fears are much worse than reality. The reality is actually pretty simple compared to the unknown.
Relax and accept what is coming. It will work out well.
On March 19, 2012...
I love that all your aunts and uncles (real and imagined!) are checking in. If reading Linda's journal doesn't calm you down, nothing will.
You'll do great -- can't wait to hear how it all went.
Selma Kaplan
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Selma. Aunts & Uncles, real & imagined are all wonderful people!
On March 19, 2012...
Charlie? O m g. Ha ha
Erie calm comes while u r "Under" - Then U wake up and say. " did they do it yet"?
Chuck , Charlie whatever. YOU WILL DO WELL.
Signed. Aunt nancy st Louis. ( wanted to be part of the family!! )
Chuck Holmgreen Nancy - you should have seen Ramona when I first introduced her to my family. She had been forwarned ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Nancy - you should have seen Ramona when I first introduced her to my family. She had been forwarned that many of my family call me Charlie. Still the look on her face was priceless.
I'll gladly make you an honorary part of the Holmgreen family. Once we meet I might even let you call me Charlie - if I can call you Aunt Nanc!
On March 19, 2012...
Chuck, I know you think I'm lying, but seriously, not even worth the case of butterflies! I got my calm after talking with my angel "Steve", but just consider me your angel....it really, really is true! I know everyone is different...but it has been almost a non-event for me. HONESTLY!
Because of you and the other wonderful people on here, I do not think my expectations could have been any more in line with what the reality ended up being. That was a HUGE help!
And never forget, you ARE an angel.
On March 19, 2012...
Charlie, (Sorry I can't go the Chuck route after forty plus years)......I have followed your journal with keen interest and care. Please know that you and Ramona are in our prayers daily and will be especially tomorrow oon an all day basis. Love to all of you.
Your Aunt Maudine and Uncle Keith
Chuck Holmgreen Oh Aunt Maudine, you've outted the "Charlie" thing and Nancy jumped all over it. I'd expect nothing ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Oh Aunt Maudine, you've outted the "Charlie" thing and Nancy jumped all over it. I'd expect nothing less.
Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers. I'm going to also ask a favor - please stick with Charlie. Anything else just wouldn't be right!!
Love you.
On March 19, 2012...
Hi,
We have been watching you in your journal, good way to do it so we can keep track without bothering you. We have found it informing and interesting.
We will say a prayer for you tomorrow morning. Aunt Shirley & Uncle Bob
Chuck Holmgreen I got your card. Thank you. Both the head mechanic and I are very pleased at the outcome!
On March 19, 2012...
Chuck, My prayers are with you. I work with Ramona. She is a very special person. .......
Sabrina Kiker
Chuck, take deep breaths and exhale slowly. Know that you are in good hands! You have lots of support behind you and you will whiz right through this. You will feel so much better! Rob is going to be released tomorrow on your surgery day! Remember you can do this! linda w
I am praying for you and your family. Surgeries are a stressful on family as it is on the patient. I pray that God will give you are a peace about this and that the surgery goes as planned and for a speedy recovery.
Maybe I will see you at the Peachtree Road Race. I have signed up now I just have to get picked. :-)
On March 19, 2012...
Praying for you and your family! Love you all bunches, please call me if you need anything, I am just down the street! XOXO Karen R :) (aka Abigail's mom)
Chuck Holmgreen Let's see, my house needs to be painted, the lawn needs to be mowed -- oh, wait, that's not what you ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Let's see, my house needs to be painted, the lawn needs to be mowed -- oh, wait, that's not what you meant???
You're a sweetheart Karen - I really do appreciate the offer. We'll definitely let you know.
On March 19, 2012...
Thinking and praying for you. Surgery will be fine, and you will be so much stronger after all this. I expect a visit to Chicago sometime soon then! Its ok to have some buterflies, butterflies are beautiful and are a sign of beauty and peace. Tina, Bergbauer and the gang
Chuck Holmgreen Butterflies are beautiful and I'm going in on the first day of Spring!!
Chuck Holmgreen Butterflies are beautiful and I'm going in on the first day of Spring!!
Thank you for your thoughts & prayers and I look forward to our next trip to Chicago!
On March 19, 2012...
No butterflies man. You have a great doc, you know you need this done. Just ride the wave of confidence, prayers and support. You'll go to sleep, wake up hours later and it'll be over and you won't even know it.
Jeff Shebovsky
Chuck Holmgreen Thanks Jeff. The confidence has gotten me this far, I'm sure I can count on it for the next 17 or so ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Thanks Jeff. The confidence has gotten me this far, I'm sure I can count on it for the next 17 or so hours.
I like Sheila's story about hearing "Dark Side of the Moon" as she was being wheeled back to the OR. After I get the IV cocktail, maybe they should start playing "Comfortably Numb"!!
I'll join you on the other side soon! Until then, I'm sure there will be a few more butterflies -- but no cold feet, none at all.
On March 19, 2012...
Hey, Chuck
That's my famous story. When I was rolled into the OR, I could music being played and it sounded somewhat familiar. A few days later, I was thinking back on that weird experience of total blankness of hours. That's when I remembered, it was Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon. Kind of weird, huh?
Sheila
Chuck Holmgreen I like that! Maybe I'll request Comfortably Numb after I get my IV feel good juice!
On March 19, 2012...
I'm wishing you the best for tomorrow, Chuck.....and, also for your trip to "The Dark Side of The Moon". You'll understand after your surgery.
And, for you, Ramona, I wish you no jitters. You have a strong man and he'll do great like the rest of us did.
Sheila Garrison - Apple Valley, CA
Chuck Holmgreen Hmmm, will they be playing Pink Floyd in the OR? You have me curious.
Thank you for the note!
On March 18, 2012...
Jeez, just read your comments in your guest book. Sure, I spend a few days off HVJ and everyone picks on me. Now what was Nnancy saying about me........
-Mitch Friedman
Chuck Holmgreen I wondered how long it would take you to see that!!
Read back a few days -- I got you both!
On March 18, 2012...
Getting close now Chuck! I know you will do great. And yes, our family has the hard job of waiting. All we do is show up and go to sleep. I wish your wife an easy wait for her to get he 'all clear' from the surgeon.
-Mitch Friedman
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Mitch. I'm going to make sure she reads your post.
On March 18, 2012...
Chuck,
You're ready to go buddy! It's truly amazing how fast you improve. I walked 1.1 mile twice yesterday and shaved 4 min off between my morning and afternoon walks. Finally slept well last night too. (only woke up 3 times not 8-10). I only take Motrin now as needed which is hardly at all. I have no fatigue. I feel good mentally. Things are coming along great. And I'm only 11 days post op. I only wish the same results with you! It will be tough for your wife and family. You won't know anything. First thing I said in ICU to my wife after my tube was out was "are they taking me for surgery now?". She's like "WHAT, you already had surgery, you're done". And that was 13 hours after they put me out. I lost a whole day pretty much in what seemed like a blink of an eye. Like Mitch this was the weirdest thing for me. Enjoy your golf outing and family and friends. I'll be watching your journal.
Jeff Shebovsky
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Jeff -- it was a wonderful day to be on a beautiful golf course with good friends. Sunny, ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Jeff -- it was a wonderful day to be on a beautiful golf course with good friends. Sunny, 80*, slight breeze. Makes for a great day regardless of how you shoot!
I may be back in mid April for a party, but they all know that I'll not be doing much golfing!
I'm not a great golfer by any standards, but I am curious how long it will be before I'm comfortable swinging a club again.
I have just a few more things to get off my plate tomorrow and I'll feel much better about stepping away from daily responsibilites for the time necessary.
I still feel surprisingly good about Tuesday. Just mild butterflies.
On March 17, 2012...
I'm not going near the poem fairy thing !!
Chuck. Honest. While its not a walk in the park it's not all that bad You will be amazed
May your recovery be uneventful !
As for your wife - just think "jewelry"
Hugs. Nancy. St Louis.
Hey you notice Mitch is never around when you need him ? :).
On March 17, 2012...
Whoops. Forgot to sign the artistry.
Nancy Friedman THE TELEPHONE DOCTOR
CUSTOMER SERVICE TRAINING
St Louis mo
Www telephonedoctor.com
AVR. DONE. 2-9-12
On March 17, 2012...
Come this TuesdayÂ
It's chuck special dayÂ
Ho ho ho
In every wayÂ
he's waited & waitedÂ
So long as we know
It's as tho he wanted
His own special showÂ
But a man whoÂ
Marries his wife twice
Is either real crazy or
Just very niceÂ
So let's just agreeÂ
If you will
That chuck & his wifeÂ
Have not yet had their fillÂ
A valve replacementÂ
Is coming due
And my dear chuckÂ
It's just for you !!Â
Put your fears away
They'll do you no goodÂ
Leave them in
Another neighborhoodÂ
Keep us postedÂ
On recoveryÂ
We all know
It will be 'loverly'Â
I plan to Spring into a new chapter of life with a new Spring in my step!!
On March 15, 2012...
All the best to you Chuck. Had my first AVR 21 years ago at age 33; second coming up in a few weeks now that my first replacement valve has worn out. You will do great!
Chuck Holmgreen I'm sorry you have to go through it again, but I am thrilled that you can.
Prayers to you as well!
On March 15, 2012...
Chuck. Thinking of you all weekend & knowing Tuesday will be a success. Nice that you can see the pattern of everyone who has gone ahead of you ! It works
I'll have your Poem Shortly!! Yes stay ahead of the meds ! No matter what.
I' m 5 weeks post today & cannot believe it. Still get tired yes. But a nap handles that easy.
Stay happy. With best wishes
Nancy friedman. 2-9-12. Avr. Done !
Chuck Holmgreen You're a sweetheart Nancy, I don't care what Mitch says!!
On March 15, 2012...
Chuck,
Again, thanks for your additional comments, humor, confidence and support. You, along with Mitch and others are inspiring.
It really does get confusing when, in one moment, there's no question in my mind that tissue is absolutely the way to go. It's not even a question. Then the whole concept about not fearing coumadin and seeing some great comments on other websites...I begin to really flip/flop. Then my cardiologist and first surgeon say go mechanical and I'm dizzy (not an aorta issue I hope!). Sorry if I asked this but did you talk to your surgeon about On-X valve? It almost seems like a cult of followers for that product. My surgeon absolutely did not have the confidence compared to many others. Finally, what have you discovered in the general realm of timelines for alternatives to coumadin if electing for a more traditional valve?
Thanks!
Steve
My surgeon likes the On-x valve. He says that because it is just a little bit taller, it won't work for everyone. His second choice is the Carbomedics valve. So, until I wake up, I won't be sure which one I have.
As far as altenatives for Coumadin, they are on the way. There is a promising one in testing, however it's not expected to be out and proved for at least 5 years if not more.
As far as alternatives for installation of tissue valves in the future, it depends on who you talk to. The doctors I spoke with said that if I chose tissue, they said chances are good that a resurgery in 15 years could be done through a catheder, but the chance was considered to be equally good that it would be another chest cracker as well. So no really good information to go from there.
I know this is making your head spin more, but it's the best information I can give.
On March 13, 2012...
Chuck - you are going to be fine. You will be on the side of recovery before you know it.
I was relaxed the night before and my wife kept me company before the or that I didn't really have a chance to get nervous and before I knew it I was waking up in the ICU and the tube was coming out. It doesn't hurt coming out. The only two things that hurt or stung when they came out was the catheter and the pacemaker wires. That was really the only time I felt any discomfort and it didn't last long.
Good luck. I am attaching my email in case any other questions may come up for you as you get ready.
JimmyJohnson26@gmail.com
Jimmy
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Jimmy. I'm thrilled your healing and that you really did not have much major discomfort to ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Jimmy. I'm thrilled your healing and that you really did not have much major discomfort to deal with. I'm taking the advice of my wife and plan to stay ahead of the pain with the meds for a while. I relax and rest better that way. Besides that, the Nurse in my wife won't allow me to stay on pain meds long . . .
I appreciate your emial. mine is chuck.holmgreen@gmail.com
On March 13, 2012...
That was me Jeff Shebovsky
On March 13, 2012...
Hi Chuck,
Just wanted to thank you so much for all your support. I've read some of the guestbook posts from you. It's do great we met and I'm honored to have your friendship and support. I'll be watching you next week. I'm doing much better. Got discharged yesterday and in a hotel now. Slept better than in hospital but literally waking up every hour.
I'm really glad you are feeling better and are full of energy. Being how low my energy has gotten, I'm hoping to feel some of that myself.
Continue to heal and I look forward to when a group of us can get together and compare scars!!
On March 12, 2012...
Hi chuck. And thank you cor the very kind works and for your very warm nice message on my journal. Loved it
I'll have your poem ready in time ! And I know you'll do great.
While this is a pretty routine surgery it sure has the ability to get us all worked up doesn't it. But I just looked at how well everyone came out and let the dr do his stuff
The calm that you will soon feel will give you such an enormous amount of strength. You'll see Be well and you,ll have your 3/19 poem !! For 3/20.
I'm currently bouncing between what I believe that calm feels like and a bit of apprehension. My guess is that is absolutely normal and I'm going with the flow.
I look forward to what you have in store for me!
If you find yourself scheduled in the Atlanta Metro area, let me know. I'd love the opportunity to meet you.
678-860-4495
chuck.holmgreen@gmail.com
On March 9, 2012...
Chuck, my husband Mike and I are praying for your quick recovery. I work with Ramona and love her dearly. She is a Gem. Keep the faith. We will be looking forward to the good reports after surger., Lynn Britt
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Lynn -- we have something in common. I love Ramona dearly too!!
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Lynn -- we have something in common. I love Ramona dearly too!!
Thank you for your prayers, they are greatly appreciated.
On March 8, 2012...
Great looking family Chuck!! This is why we go through this. It's worth it. Hope you are doing well
I am feeling better every day. I think I have lost about 17 lbs. not the diet plan I would recommend. Haha
Jimmy Johnson
Chuck Holmgreen That's funny Jimmy! Talk about an expensive diet plan!!!
I'm really glad you are healing well and a ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen That's funny Jimmy! Talk about an expensive diet plan!!!
I'm really glad you are healing well and am looking forward to joining you on the other side of this Great Adventure.
I would not be disappointed to lose 17 lbs during this. It would be a nice start.
On March 7, 2012...
Thanx Chuck for your great support. The waiting is something else but I suppose each step has its virtues. I am ready for this to be done. Will be thinking of you and sending prayers and positive energy your way. Robert
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Robert - I'm returning the favor as well.
Chuck, I agree completely about DVB's post. The big question is......who in the heck is DVB? Everyone wants to know!!! He must be some masked superhero or something, lol. Whomever he is (or maybe even she) he sure is smart!!! Kudos DVB!
Linda Dixon
On March 7, 2012...
Chuck,
Thanks for sharing DVB's quote. The HV journals are an amazing resource, especially when we find the time to dig deep into our friends' journals and guestbooks. When I signed up for this, all I really expected was a device to communicate with my family and friends. In all other aspects of my life, I'm not a "social media" type of guy. But the HVJ community is truly a gift.
Grace and Peace, Jim Smith
I'm with you on that. I also expected that this would be a way of keeping my family & friends informed. I never could have imagined the gift this website could provide in the people/HJV Family that are, and remain, involved.
On March 7, 2012...
Hi Chuck,
I agree with the advice you quoted from DVB yesterday. It was a big shock when I was told I needed surgery to repair my leaking Mitral Valve. However, once I accepted that fact and learned the issue with the atrial fibrillation and the leaking valve were interrelated and that both could be fixed during the surgery I began to look forward to it and got busy getting ready for the surgery. I do not remember being that anxious or worried about it. Having been through another surgery previously to repair a broken back might have helped to give me confidence that things would go well. Also knowing that things would only get worse if I did not have the surgery helped give me a positive attitude about the surgery.
John Lund
Chuck Holmgreen We have the process in common. Initial shock, (even though I knew it was coming), acceptance, then r ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen We have the process in common. Initial shock, (even though I knew it was coming), acceptance, then run with it.
I'm not sure if I'll sleep well the night before, but until then I believe I'll be just fine.
On March 6, 2012...
Thanks Chuck. You're a great guy and I appreciate all your support. Gotta catch some z's now, got a big day tomorrow.
Jeff
Jeff