Chuck. I ran into DVB a while back & will tell you he has it down pat. He had the best emails ever So glad you ran into him. His reality check makes so much sense
Good for you !
Best. Nancy Friedman. St Louis.
On March 6, 2012...
Hey Chuck,
Boy is it getting hard to keep everyone straight. Seems like a busy month. In this horse race we are all in, I think I forgot to leave the gate. Everybody will be all fixed than I will be leaving the gate. Hope everything goes good for you
For the long haul
LInda H
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Linda H. Your position is one I can't imagine being in. It's my understanding that you ha ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Linda H. Your position is one I can't imagine being in. It's my understanding that you have an issue, but it's not bad enough for surgery by the numbers, yet you have significant symptoms. Wow.
I was feeling a bit strange because I'm the latest date scheduled at this point - even though we've had a few join recently that are still going before me. Makes me feel a bit like Linda D did about a month ago!!
We will be here for you - as you have for us as well with very nice words of encouragement.
On March 6, 2012...
Hi Chuck,
I was just noticing that you live in Cumming, GA. My husband and I were married in the White County Court House what will be 25 years ago in July! We lived in Norcross, GA for a shorttimeand spent a lot of time at Lake Lanier camping with our dogs. I still remember the red clay squishing between my toes.
Small world.
On a heart related subject.....hope your waiting passes quickly. I'm waiting for a follow up echo to see if it's time for a surgical referral. Knowing you'll have to have surgery but not knowing when is difficult but cant Beas excruciating as waiting for the actual day.
Nancy B
Chuck Holmgreen Nancy B -- Good to meet you via HVJ. My wife and I have been in Cumming GA since September 2004. Pr ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Nancy B -- Good to meet you via HVJ. My wife and I have been in Cumming GA since September 2004. Prior to that, we lived in Alpharetta and for a short time prior to that -- Norcross. So we have a bit in common. And yes, the mud is as red as ever, and hard as cement when it's dry.
I will tell you what has been told to me and is very true. Waiting without a date is the worst part. Once you have a date, you have a target and things to do to prepare. Waiting has not been bad for me. It has actually passed by very quickly as I'm two weeks out - today.
I copied the following from something DVB posted in your guest book earlier:
My experience is that if you can get to the place where you are excited about the surgery - that it will give you your life back - and you are fully engaged in preparing then you will will be calm and relaxed. After you wake up "on the other side", if you can take charge of your physical recovery and push yourself the right amount every day, you'll do about as best you can.
He is absolutely right -- especially in getting excited about what this can bring you once it's done. That attitude has helped me tremendously.
I'm looking forward to 3/20 -- and beyond!
God speed to you in your journey. I'll be following along.
On March 6, 2012...
Feeling good, feeling excited is the best place to be. All the best to you, my man -- DVB
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you DVB, now if I could only help my wife, the nurse, feel less stress regarding this . . .
On March 6, 2012...
Thanks Chuck!
Linda D.
On March 6, 2012...
The time will be here before you know it. You will have some hurdles to jump, but it will get better each day after surgery. Will be praying for you Chuck as you go through this journey. Take care.
While this may be a bit twisted, I'm looking forward to the challenge. The prize will be worth all the effort!!
On March 6, 2012...
Hey Chuck...who is Chris?? Have I missed someone?? The journal friends increase every day it seems, and I don't want to leave anyone out. Robert Weibe is on for March 14th also. Wow...my head is spinning, I feel so stupid right now...my biggest concern is...my clothes...what to take??? Is that not the dumbest thing? I'm not even worried (well not too much) about flying. I've only flown twice in my life and that was pre-2001, so this is going to be an experience for me. Luckily, my daughter flys frequently for her business, so I will just let her pull me along.
Hope you have a relatively stress free week.
You'll be fine Linda. I'm glad you're clothes are your biggest issue right now. Being that you'll be inside most of the time, I'd recommend bringing your normal clothes with a sweater - or something lighter than a jacket for the few places that will be a little cooler than you expect. Then bring a large coat to keep you warm outside. If you layer too much, you'll always be dressing & undressing as you go in and out. Someone earlier recommended good sneakers. I concur. If you have some boots that cover your ankles, that might be a good choice if you get caught in the snow - however the snow will be cleared quickly from the sidewalks & streets.
You're going to go through this with flying colors!!
On March 5, 2012...
Love the attitude Chuck, keep it up. Sounds like you are ready!
Well don't blink my friend...trust me..the two weeks WILL FLY BY!!!
I LEAVE IN 3 DAYS!!!! YIKES!!!
Then have to wait 5 more days for sugery...bummer!
ALMOST HERE....Linda Dixon
Chuck Holmgreen You're in good company Linda, next week is a busy week. I hope you'll be able to enjoy the 5 days pr ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen You're in good company Linda, next week is a busy week. I hope you'll be able to enjoy the 5 days prior.
Chuck Holmgreen.
On March 3, 2012...
WOW! I been away from the club for a while and just heard about this.
Let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
Having some personal experience with heart trouble that you are well aware of I understand where you are at. Need to talk I'm there for you.
When you get back to 100% and the doc give the nod to start getting the ticker in shape let me get you into cycling. Been a BIG improvement in my mental well being and my heart heath. Get you up to speed you can do some rides with Jay, Paul and I.
Will be keeping you in my thoughts.
Eric
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Eric. Good to hear from you. I can see that you've done well with cycling.
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Eric. Good to hear from you. I can see that you've done well with cycling.
I am so looking forward to being able to be more active, and cycling will be a part of that.
On March 3, 2012...
Chuck, Glad to hear the good news about cancer. That is such a horrible thing to have. So its always good to hear that someone beat it. You will be on top soon too. Hope you didn't experience any of that bad weather we all had last night. It was horrible. We dodged the bullet thank heaven. I was thinking of you when I heard Gainesville come up on weather channel.
For the long haul
Linda H
Luckily for us, the storms went both north and south of us.
On March 3, 2012...
Great news for your friend. Reminds me what has been said here many times, we are lucky, we are broken and can be fixed. Now battling cancer, that is serious. So happy for your friend and her family.
Not to take away from your "Great Adventure," we have challenges in life. Not easier or harder, just different. Keep up the good attitude and you will be fine.
Wishing you all the best,
-Mitch Friedman
Chuck Holmgreen I think I'm going to start referring to you as the Curve Buster! Way to be a Poster Child!
Chuck Holmgreen I think I'm going to start referring to you as the Curve Buster! Way to be a Poster Child!
I agree - we can be fixed. That has not been lost on me.
As far as challenges, I learned a long time ago that challenges are not what define us. How we confront them is what defines us. In my opinion this site is filled with winners!
On March 3, 2012...
Chuck. Glad all going well in your life. It will continue !!
I'm just at3 weeks and feel super !
Best to you. Keep us posted
Nancy. Friedman. St Louis
Chuck Holmgreen It's hard to believe it's already been three weeks! I'm thrilled you are doing well and look forward ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen It's hard to believe it's already been three weeks! I'm thrilled you are doing well and look forward to joining you on that side of this Great Aventure soon!
On March 3, 2012...
Happy for your friend's great news. Just the mention of the "C" word brings fear and dread and every once in a while an unshakeable bravery and faith. God bless your friend and this just reaffirms how blessed we are to be living in a time when "we can be fixed".
Linda Dixon
Chuck Holmgreen Agreed Linda. I am truly thrilled beyond words for her and her family.
On March 1, 2012...
Glad to here that the heart cath went well. I know it's one of those hurdles that we all have to jump. Twenty-three days post-op and feeling better each day.Continued prayers to you and all of our HVJ friends!!
Robert Hartner
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Robert. It's posts like this that help keep my emotions in check. I'm looking forward to ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Robert. It's posts like this that help keep my emotions in check. I'm looking forward to being on the other side and healing!! Prayers for your continued healing!
On March 1, 2012...
Hi Chuck,
Great news on the heart cath. I was relieved when my turned out the same. For me, the biggest surprise was my doc going through my wrist rather than the groin. I wish I could remember seeing the images; no recall at all due to the sedative. I see we're having our surgeries one week apart -- mine will be Tues. 13 March.
- Jim Smith, Athens, Georgia
Thank you for posting and the very best wishes for your surgery and recovery. I'll be following along with your progress.
With my cath, I only got enough sedative to take a little edge off. They offered more and while I thought that would be fun, I chose not to have to come out from under it on the other end. Considering how easy the procedure was, I'm glad I was given that choice.
On February 29, 2012...
Hey Chuck! I'm so happy things are working out well. I have been praying for you, and sending you and your family love and light. I'm signing up for the email updates, so I won't miss a thing. Talk to you soon! (((HUGS)))
Michelle Kitchens - New Life Landscapes
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Michelle. I know if I start feeling down, I can give you a call and pretty soon you'll hav ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Michelle. I know if I start feeling down, I can give you a call and pretty soon you'll have me laughing so hard I'll be in pain!!
Thank you for the prayers, I truly apprecaite them.
On February 29, 2012...
Isn't it wonderful to hear those words? One less thing to fret about. You will do great, Chuck. Continued prayers sent your way. Janis Kielbasa
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Janis. It certainly was nice to hear those words!
Your prayers are much appreciated.
On February 28, 2012...
Hey Chuck,
Clean as a whistle! Way to go.! Me too. You are right, one less thing to worry about.
Jeff
Chuck Holmgreen Absolutely. I honestly wasn't sure as I just found out recently that when my mother was alive she di ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Absolutely. I honestly wasn't sure as I just found out recently that when my mother was alive she did have a history with calcium build up - but not enough to require intervention.
On February 28, 2012...
Why oops that would be chuck is a piece of cake ! Guess church is too tho. :).
On February 28, 2012...
They made Mitch lay still 4 hours cuz hey knew who he was. Church was a piece of cake.
Good going. & honest. The rest isn't that bad. Best of luck chuck. You'll nail this.
Hugs. Nancy Friedman. St Louis
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Nancy - you're a great motivator in few words. I'm certain that helps you greatly in your ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Nancy - you're a great motivator in few words. I'm certain that helps you greatly in your speaking life!
On February 28, 2012...
At my hospital they made you lie still for 4 hours! You got off easy!!!! Each step closer is a milestone. Glad you got through this one, easily and with great results. Love the wedding pic and the renewal of the vows.
Getting closer Chuck, good for you. Stay strong and don't think too much about it. It is true, the waiting is the harderst part.
All the best,
-Mitch Friedman
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Mitch. As somone said before - the reason they made you lie still for 4 hours is because t ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Mitch. As somone said before - the reason they made you lie still for 4 hours is because they KNOW you!!
I'm in a phase where most of the waiting part really isn't an issue. What is an issue is trying to remain focused on daily responsibilities. That has become much more of an effort.
Other than that, I'm set, and hoping that I can keep this attitude throughout without another *&($ *$!# moment.
On February 28, 2012...
See we heart valve journalers don't lie. We tell it as it is. So far no one has complained about the cath. I did have a lot of bruising, but it didn't seem to mean anything.
Jane, 12 weeks out
Chuck Holmgreen I have a bit more bruising than I initially expected, however I have the benefit of being married to ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen I have a bit more bruising than I initially expected, however I have the benefit of being married to a nurse with current cardiac responsibilities! She has been keeping an eye on it and is not concerned. So neither am I!
On February 28, 2012...
Told you it was neat to watch!! Glad everything is good to go!!
REALLY getting closer...Linda Dixon
Chuck Holmgreen It was cool to watch. It was weird when he would go into each chamber to test the pressures. I coul ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen It was cool to watch. It was weird when he would go into each chamber to test the pressures. I could feel a quick change in my heart beat and see the change in the monitors.
On February 28, 2012...
Good luck chuck. My wasn't too bad. The actual procedure was 30 mins and then I laid flat for 2.5 hrs. I was sore a couple of days after. In general not too bad.
Glad you're home and healing. I'm certain I'll be sore for a few days as well. I'm glad it's over but no longer fear the cath.
On February 27, 2012...
Hi Chuck,
I have had two caths; the second one included both the left side and right side. No problem with either. It was interesting because I could see the monitor and watch the probes as the cardiologist was doing the procedure. The part in which the nurse put pressure on the incisions afterwards to get them to seal up was a little bit uncomfortable.
Being still afterwards was a bit tiring, it was more than two hours with me.
John Lund
Chuck Holmgreen John, mine was right/left as well. And glad to report it was nothing compared to what I had expected ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen John, mine was right/left as well. And glad to report it was nothing compared to what I had expected.
On February 27, 2012...
The cath is what I feared most - I promise you unless you have your local butcher doing it its nothing ! You're nearing the post now & the bell will ring ! - then you're off !! Best to you. . You'll. Nail this I know. Thinking of you & wil be looking for the notes
Take your iPad w you - after cath you'll play !
Best. Nancy Friedman. St Louis.
Chuck Holmgreen Nancy, I feared the cath as well because I had no real basis for expectation. I'm thrilled it's over ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Nancy, I feared the cath as well because I had no real basis for expectation. I'm thrilled it's over but won't worry about it when/if the next time comes around.
On February 27, 2012...
Good for you Chuck and Ramona! Lovely wedding picture too, btw.
There is really nothing to the cath Chuck, I predict you will get a kick out of watching. It really is amazing. I was given a little something (I think a little valium), but I have had 3 caths, so by the time of this last one, I was a pro! Afterwards you just can't move the leg or raise your head, but you can move the other leg, your arms, etc. You can turn your head, just not raise it. The time will pass very quickly and in fact I was able to eat very quickly. I did have to lay flat for 4 hours the last time, because my valve area was so narrowed, they were never able to cross the valve and even used some of the older catheters which are larger and easier to maneuver. But even with the longer time, it was okay. I had my own personal, what I called "head nazi" sitting at the foot of my bed telling me "don't raise your head" any time I even looked like I was going to. It was the day before Thanksgiving and I was their only patient, so I did get special attention. So it's not like you are packed in cement unable to move it all.
Good luck and keep us updated on how it turns out.
REALLY getting closer...Linda Dixon
Chuck Holmgreen Linda, I now agree - the cath is no big deal. Clean as a whistle. And my "Head Nazi" was my wife. ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Linda, I now agree - the cath is no big deal. Clean as a whistle. And my "Head Nazi" was my wife. She also happens to be a cardiac nursing supervisor!
On February 26, 2012...
You are dang right! If we cannot laugh and enjoy life, what is the point?
I, too, outkicked my coverage in the wife area. How did I get so lucky?! 20 years this year and she gets more beautiful each year. Somehow I just get older and grayer!!!
The cath is a piece of cake and you will probably won't remember much of it. Just lay still, nap, listen to music for a few hours and you are home.
Keep up the great work Chuck.
JH Mattingly
On February 26, 2012...
Thinking of you three and will continue in Prayer for you.Ed
Chuck Holmgreen Glad I scrolled up before I replied. I was going to get you on that one!! I wanted the secret recip ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Glad I scrolled up before I replied. I was going to get you on that one!! I wanted the secret recipe!
On February 26, 2012...
OK Chuck, now we are even. I forgot to sign my post below.- Jeff Shebovsky
On February 26, 2012...
Hey Chuck great post. Love that picture. That IS how is should be...FUN!! As for the cath, I can't relate. I went with the 64 spice CT angio. :) hope you can lay still, I know I couldn't.
On February 21, 2012...
Chuck i send this to Jeff & - Linda. & Thot you'd enjoy it as well. You will notice a soulful calmness that will come over you just a few days before. Not sure what. But something does pop up and take over - you will be a peace - and all will be well.
Mark my words! let it take over - release- and engage
It's beautiful. Talk soon. Hugs. Nancy. (2-9-12 it's OVER) Got the OK to fly to keys Thursday so will spend a week or so there. Not too shabby. ! Even bought a recliner ( power) for that condo too. Ha ha) Luv. Nancy
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Nancy. I'm hopeful that calmness will come over me. I'm very calm now and looking forward t ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Nancy. I'm hopeful that calmness will come over me. I'm very calm now and looking forward to being on the other side of this. I expect to have the reality hit me again to jolt me out of my current peace, but who knows?
I had told my cardiologist that I was certain there would be no sleep prior to surgery day. She just calmly put her hand on my shoulder and said, "Don't worry, we'll give you something to help you out if you need it. Just call."
Like most on this side of the surgery, I think what has me concerned is not so much the actual procedure, but what I'm going to be feeling emotionally prior to the surgery.
The calmness you and others have mentioned is a welcome piece of information.
I hope you are able to supercharge your healing in Florida
On February 21, 2012...
Chuck,
I had a CTA. It is great test and real easy. It is very accurate too BUT it must be a 64 slice CT. You can find out if you have any blockages and also get a "calcium score". Luckily I was all clear and had a ZERO calcium score. I am not sure if this is the same test you are talking about as I think this is around $1000 or so.
Jeff Shebovsky
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Jeff. We'll confirm that before we schedule.
Thank you.
On February 21, 2012...
I will def be telling people about the CT scan at Piedmont. Always better safe than sorry, or waiting until its too late. Enjoy the month before and take it easy!
April Crocker
On February 21, 2012...
Hi Chuck, children are amazing. Thank you for sharing that with all of us. My best friend died unexpectedly in childbirth a few years ago. Now with my upcoming procedure we're having similar talks in our home as to yours. Children respond so well to honest, loving communication.
When you are in testing I will be on a plane to Cleveland Clinic for the big day. You'll be in my thoughts. Stephanie Cole
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Stephanie. I'm sorry about your friend and I'm glad you ae able to have good conversations ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen Thank you Stephanie. I'm sorry about your friend and I'm glad you ae able to have good conversations with your children.
It's kind of funny - at 6, my son really cannot fathom the actual procedure and we are not having graphic discussions with him. Only that Daddy is getting his heart fixed. So far the only thing that has gotten a physical reaction from him is when I told him I would have a scar, showed him where and about how big. That actually bothered him - but we're past that now.
I wish you the best for your procedure and you will be in my thoughts & prayers.
On February 21, 2012...
Great advice Chuck, and good move with your wife. Since, I had a bicuspid aortic valve, my surgeon mentioned there is a higher than normal chance my kids have it too. His suggestion, before they go off to college, have them checked. You can be sure I will be following that advice!!!!!
-Mitch Friedman
Chuck Holmgreen I'm glad you'll be having your kids checked. Just before my mother passed away, she said "It looks l ... Read more
Chuck Holmgreen I'm glad you'll be having your kids checked. Just before my mother passed away, she said "It looks like you got your heart valve from me." She was a lung transplant patient and didn't know about her valve issues until very late in the game.
I'd love to see my siblings get tested (if they have not already) but I'm the youngest, and who listens to the "baby of the family" anyway? Maybe they will read it here!
On February 21, 2012...
Chuck...that is exactly how my aneurysm was discovered...I asked my doctor to order a CT. It cannot be seen on the echocardiogram that I was having every six months to monitor the valve. Aneurysms run in my family, my father has one that no surgeon will touch, involves the entire aorta down to his kidneys. Anyway, since there is a strong genetic link to aneurysms I asked for the CT, my doctor obliged and voila!!
Being proactive is the best thing we can do for ourselves. Yes, these things cost money..but sometimes not as much as we think they will.
Great advice!
Linda Dixon
On February 21, 2012...
Great post Chuck. Kids are the most amazing, precious creatures on this earth. We should all let the "kid" in us shine more often...its alot more fun that way!
Later....
JH Mattingly
On February 21, 2012...
Wow, Chuck, what a great story. I had tears in my eyes.
Yes, children are amazing!!!! For your reference, my 6 year old is constantly reminding me to 'take it easy' and 'don't do that.'. Running and jumping on me, her all time favorite activities, are just simply not on her radar. She knows to wait until daddy is ready. Again, kids are amazing and a huge source of inspiration.
Thanks for sharing your story. Yes, we are lucky to be fixed, and somehow our children know that.
I sometimes wonder in my relationship with Anthony, who is doing the most teaching.
On February 20, 2012...
That was a sad story, but kids understand more than we think they do. When my daughter had her surgery her kids were great to her. They all wanted to take of Mommy. They thought it was fun being a nurse. She talked to them and explained what happened and showed them her badge of courage. But she also had a baby that she had a hard time with.She couldn't pick him up and that upset her. So I would change the baby, feed it and hand it to her so that they could bond.Thats what Grandmas do. Now her daughter wants to come and help me. So cute. Your son will do fine also. Let him help anyway he can and it will help him also.
Until Later Linda H
He will be helping me. Maybe that way I won't have to remind him so much that he can't run & jump on me for a while!
On February 20, 2012...
Chuck, you already have! :-)
Linda
On February 20, 2012...
Okay, I was almost in bed, saw your journal entry and BOOM...now I have to put an ice pack on my eyes or I won't be able to open them in the morning! You made me cry Chuck! Or actually your son made me cry. Soooo sweet and so amazing. You must be so proud. You did a great job by the way!
Anthony is adopted as we were unable to have children the traditional way. We got him at 6 days old and he has been an incredible blessing to our lives ever since.
He does so much for us without even trying -- I only hope that we can do as much for him as he grows up and turns into a respectable young man.
On February 20, 2012...
Will do Chuck
Jeff
On February 20, 2012...
If you do not have this book and CD, I HIGHLY recommend you get it.
http://www.healfaster.com/index.html
By the way, I have not yet started reading "Of Monkeys and Dragons" but I will soon. I had ordered 3 books and trying to get thru them. The one above is great, along with the relaxation CD.
Jeff Shebovsky
Thank you, I'll look into those. The "Of Monkeys & Dragons", I read in 2 days. Couldn't put it down.
After you read that, look up a vitamin & mineral supliment called The Gift by Mother Earth Labs.
On February 20, 2012...
Great Story Chuck. Such a hard thing to talk about with the kids. And I don't know if mine (15, 11 and 7) REALLY get the magnitude of what it is I am having done. Maybe its better they don't. I pray, for their sake, more than my own, that I am in the 99% that make it through. Tough, tough, stuff!
Jeff Shebovsky
On February 20, 2012...
Yes, we have an initial "Union" and then subsequent "Reunions". Great idea. I am posting this to see what kind of feedback we get.
Love the "let the wife drive" idea!
Jeff Shebovsky
On February 20, 2012...
That last one was me, Jeff Shebovsky. I keep forgetting to sign my name in peoples journals
Good for you !
Best. Nancy Friedman. St Louis.