Thank you for replying to my journal update, especially when you are so close to your own surgery. It is good to read each other's emails! I sure identified with what you said about "losing it" some days -that happened to me this past week twice and it was over such small stuff. Am doing better today, and hope you are as well.
I hope and pray the best for you this week, as you approach your big day and then getting through it. Hang on!
Vel Turner
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Vel, yeah my emotions are going every where right now. I'm glad my doctor prescribed a valium ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Vel, yeah my emotions are going every where right now. I'm glad my doctor prescribed a valium for me tomorrow night, my nerves are trying to get the better of me.
I know we are going to be okay and this site and the new friendships have helped so much. Thanks for your prayers!!! :))
On May 5, 2012...
Good luck Cindy!! You will be a rock star and do great with this entire process.
Dear Cindy,
Thanks so much for your kind note and thoughts! I wish all of us well - I love this site; I am slowly going through all of it - it is a wealth of information and support.
Hang tough.. I will follow your progress, too!
Kate Rooney :)
Cindy Pastrano Thank you Kate for your kind words as well. I'm ready the wait has been long and I'm ready to leap o ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Thank you Kate for your kind words as well. I'm ready the wait has been long and I'm ready to leap over to the other side!!! :))
Thank you so much for your post and for making this site possible, it has made all the difference for me and I know everyone else, it truly is amazing and I can never say thank you enough for making it possible. Monday is my big day and like you I will be having the Ross Procedure. I look forward to posting and updating everyone.
Thanks to you and all the friends I have made here I am ready for Monday. And your book just awesome, I have read it several times!!!
On May 4, 2012...
Hey,
I had mine this morning. The whole thing seems unreal! Just a few more days, girl. Go gettem!
Selma
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Selma, I am ready no more waiting, worrying just ready to get it done and start healing, this ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Selma, I am ready no more waiting, worrying just ready to get it done and start healing, this time next week hopefully I'll be home and well on my way and you my friend will have had your surgery and your recovery and healing will begin too....Yeah to us and to an uneventful recovery!!!!
On May 3, 2012...
Hi Cindy - after reading your post on my journal I decided to look you up and see where you are in your jouney. Wow - surgery in just 4 days - I will watching to see how you do. You will be in my thoughts and prayers on the 7th. Take care and God bless you!
Denise K
Cindy Pastrano Thank you so much yes my day is right around the corner, so glad my wait is almost over, so ready to ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Thank you so much yes my day is right around the corner, so glad my wait is almost over, so ready to start the healing part!!!! I'll be back on here to cheer you on as your day approaches, you are going to do great!!!
On May 2, 2012...
Hey, Cindy --
Just checking in to see you you are doing as our days grow closer. It's incredible how this huge group of people, all ages, all religions, all over the country, seem to share the exact same feelings as the day approaches. I'm keeping myself really busy at work, trying to keep the jokes coming and truthfully, most of the time it's all fine.
I have my pre-op this Friday; a week from then, it'll be done.
I'm soooo ready.
Selma K
Cindy Pastrano Hey girl, yes I love this site it has helped me in so many ways and making new friends like you, just ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Hey girl, yes I love this site it has helped me in so many ways and making new friends like you, just priceless!!! We share a journey that not everyone understands. So we are have are pre-op's on the same day, good luck this Friday and hopefully I can be back on and cheering you on before your day!!!
As we say in Texas "Let's Get Er' Done"
On May 1, 2012...
Hi Cindy, you are in the home stretch now. If it has not happened yet, you likely will suddenly get calm right before surgery as you realize you are ready. You have done all the homework, you can and will do this. You have the easy job, show up and go to sleep. The dr and your family have the harder part. Well not really your doc, this is just another day at the office for him. Good luck, it will be over before you know it and trust us when we all say, the waiting is the hardest part.
Take care,
-Mitch Friedman
Cindy Pastrano Hi Mitch, and yes home stretch here I come. And your right I'm ready, this day has been in the makin ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Hi Mitch, and yes home stretch here I come. And your right I'm ready, this day has been in the making for years and I think that calm is beginning. I'll give my husband your kind words cause I know as the day gets closer he is getting more nervous. So glad the waiting is just about over.
Thank you for all your continued support!!!
On May 1, 2012...
Hey Cindy, I was just thinking about you, wondering how you were doing. You are getting pretty close to going over the mountain. You are going to be just fine and will shine. I think it was Mitch that said to get a mantra to focus on when you go in.Make sure you have someone post on here so we all know. You will be in my prayers along with everyone else. God will be there holding your hand. Good luck.
For the long haul
Linda H
Cindy Pastrano I think I have my mantra, will post it in the next day or so. Can't believe my day is almost here, j ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano I think I have my mantra, will post it in the next day or so. Can't believe my day is almost here, just 4 days away, this time next week I'll be recovering already and looking to get out of the hospital, crazy....
My sister-n-law and probably my kids will post for me, my husband is nervous and not too big on computers :))
Thank you for your prayers they mean so much!!!
On May 1, 2012...
Hi Cindy,
I can sympathize with your roller coaster emotions. I'm not quite sure what I want people to feel. I certainly don't want people to tell me everything will be fine...how do they know? I'm having OHS! It may not be okay. But then on the other hand I don't like it when people act all serious and grave. That's when I start making jokes and tell them it's going to be fine. I don't know...I'm all over the place.
If I act concerned around my husband it causes him to freak out.
I am grateful for HVJ. It's a good place to vent.
If you'd like to email me privately, please do. We can commiserate as our days approach.
Here's my email... Rola2002@sbcglobal.net
Nancy B
Cindy Pastrano Hi Nancy, just got back in to town but yes would enjoy a chance to visit with you a little more so I' ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Hi Nancy, just got back in to town but yes would enjoy a chance to visit with you a little more so I'll email you tomorrow thanks for the support!!!
On May 1, 2012...
Attack the process now, Cindy.
You're ready. I'm a few weeks behind but we know all we're going to ever know, we have access to amazing doctors and we're in communication with a whold community of success stories. Get yourself fixed! It's your turn and it will be great. You know that.
I look forward to your update and thanks for sharing.
You're welcome Cindy. Anytime! I see you decided on a Ross. That is great. We will welcome you to the club with open arms. Who is doing yours? I know its one of those great docs in Texas that does them. Was it Ryan? Or the other guy, can't recall his name now. Hang in there and stay positive. Listen to guided imagery CD's/MP3's. Made a HUGE difference for me. I will sign up for updates from you now. My birthday is May 8th. When I blow out my candles, I will say a wish for you too. (You'll be in recovery and on your way to greatness)
Jeff Shebovsky
Cindy Pastrano Hi Jeff, thanks for the welcome I actually am going with a doctor right here in San Antonio, his name ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Hi Jeff, thanks for the welcome I actually am going with a doctor right here in San Antonio, his name is Dr. John Calhoon, when I was doing my research his name came up for his success on newborn infants getting the Ross. When I met him he just made me feel instantly better, he spent so much time with my husband and I, and there were other connections his wife is a News Anchor at the TV my husband works at can't explain why that made me feel better but it just did.
Happy Birthday a week early, that's just 1 day before my wedding anniversary (24 years). I know this is going to be a dumb question but what are the guided imagery CD's?
Talk to you soon.....
Cindy Pastrano Ok I really should proof read before I submit, so that's the TV station not TV....lol......might have ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Ok I really should proof read before I submit, so that's the TV station not TV....lol......might have to suggest spell check on the site.....
On April 20, 2012...
Cindy,
Your experience is why we all reinforce that the waiting it truly the hardest part. The feelings you've been through are normal and the vast majority of us have felt exactly what you are feeling. I lost my mother almost 5 years ago, but luckily when I broke down, I was sitting on the couch with my wife. Like you, it was about a month prior to the surgery.
You will get through the waiting. And yes, the fear will creep into your thoughts now and then. When it does, try to lean on those of us that are on the other side. We will cheer you on.
I also want to reinforce what Linda Dixon wrote below. The breathing tube is not a big deal. Mine was just like hers. They told me to cough and it was out. The PIC line in my neck was a breeze. I actually had a nursing student pull it out the day before I left the hosptial (I was in a teaching hospital). I honestly didn't even feel it as it came out.
You're going to do fine. You're going to be surprised at how quickly you start to recover. The two things I want to emphasize as you heal -- walk and use your spirometer as often or more than they recommend. The spirometer will be a love/hate relationship, however it really, really helps.
Hang in there!
Chuck Holmgreen
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Chuck, it took me by surprise that day since I had been feeling pretty upbeat but I feel like ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Chuck, it took me by surprise that day since I had been feeling pretty upbeat but I feel like I'm back in a good place again and luckily it seems that the waiting time is flying by, this time next month I'll be back home already in full recovery mode....crazy
Walking should be good just hoping the Texas heat doesn't start to kick in, but it's Texas so that probably won't happen :))
Take care and glad to hear how good you are doing!!
On April 19, 2012...
Hey Cindy, You might not be able to talk but we can write lol. It sounds like a bad time at the dentist. I dont like them either as I had a bad time with one a while back. At least your getting this out of the way early before your big day. When my daughter had her surgery she just had a wisdom tooth taken out a few days before. She had a horrible time with the spirometer drama. So at least you have some time to get better.Just take it easy and enjoy this time. Everything is going to be fine and Cindy you can do this. Hang in there.
For the long haul
Linda H
Cindy Pastrano Hey Linda, yeah that dentist, ugh....and I go back to him tomorrow and I have no idea what he is goin ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Hey Linda, yeah that dentist, ugh....and I go back to him tomorrow and I have no idea what he is going to do to that screw he put in my gums, he's not in my top 5 favorite people right now, but it's almost over (whew). I've got a lot of things coming up to keep me busy, a Wedding, my son's ring ceremony so hoping I can kind of keep my mind off of what's coming. How are you feeling? I think about you all alot here, it's crazy growing up as a military brat you develop strong bonds and it feels like that here, I hope to keep in touch with you all when we are all through this as you are becoming a part of my life.
Thanks again Linda.....:))
On April 19, 2012...
Hi Cindy, I'm just reading your post now. I'm sorry to hear you were having a rough day. I can't believe you can't brush your teeth! Sounds like you're doing better now. Soon it'll all be over. Have fun at PF Changs! Lily
Cindy Pastrano Awwww, thanks Lily no worries I'm getting back on track and a big part of that is all of you here enc ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Awwww, thanks Lily no worries I'm getting back on track and a big part of that is all of you here encouraging and pushing me on and letting me see that this is doable and life is gonna get better. Tomorrow I have a followup with the dentist and I just pray this guy says I can at least brush some of my teeth, I'm gonna have to go into hiding if I don't brush them soon....lol....even my dog is looking at me funny....
On April 19, 2012...
Cindy,
Don't worry about breaking down. Several days before my surgery I found myself afraid and angry at the world. I clearly handled it less well than it sounds like you did, unleashing a flood of negativity on my mother who simply wasn't equipped to deal with my fatalist thoughts.
Know that you're going to get through it. You'll have a lot of swirling emotions for a while and it's perfectly ok to deal with them and to let off steam when you need to. We all deal with our fears in our own way.
That said, I recommend you get out of bed and walk just as soon as the doctors will permit it. I really pushed myself in this area and it has contributed to a much faster recovery. My OHS was on 1/25 and just this week I was able to work up to running 2 miles at a time in only the 3rd week of being cleared for exercise. I can't tell you what beginning to feel physically able again has done for my mindset.
Keep your chin up, Cindy. Welcome to the zipper club :)
Jessica
Cindy Pastrano Jessica, thank you so much, I of course took my mom by surprise with my emotional call to her but she ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Jessica, thank you so much, I of course took my mom by surprise with my emotional call to her but she seemed to be almost expecting it and she called the next day just to see if I had calmed down some. I felt bad for doing that to her but she always knows the right things to say.
I am so looking forward to walking and exercising again, since I am having issues with over exerting and shortness of breath they cut me off from most everything.
Thanks so much for the encouragement it helps so much!!!!
On April 19, 2012...
Cindy, the breathing tube was also what I feared the most. I hoped I would not remember it. I do, but even that was not so bad. I just kept telling myself, it doesn't hurt, just feels little strange, relax and then they said, "Linda, we're going to take your breathing tube out...give us a good cough" and out it was! Even taking it out was not as bad as I had prepared myself for. I'm serious, be prepared but not overly anxious and it's really out very quickly. Mine was in for a couple of hours after arriving in ICU, but it only seemed like a couple of minutes. Everyone dreads the breathing tube. And the needle in your neck...I never saw mine and really didn't feel it, knew it was there, but barely remember them taking it out, so obviously that wasn't so bad either.
Hang in there...soon you will be "on the other side".
Linda Dixon
Cindy Pastrano Linda, thanks you are truly a gem on here your words are uplifting and you are an inspiration. I'm g ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Linda, thanks you are truly a gem on here your words are uplifting and you are an inspiration. I'm gonna take what you say to heart and try my best to not freak myself out too much. How are you feeling, are you able to get out for walks a little easier now? By the way you looked great in the picture of you just a few days was that after surgery, unbelievable!!!
On April 19, 2012...
Yeah, that was me....I always forget to sign these things!
For sure, we'll hold each other up. I'm also more scared of the breathing tube than anything else (which is absolutely typical, I guess) and when someone here wrote that they threw up while it was still in, that about put me over the edge! (Big help, I know, right??) SO....we are going to remember at our pre-op appointments to tell our anesthesiologists that we request anti-nausea meds that will take effect BEFORE they take the thing out. Plan? Hopefully, we'll be two of the lucky ones who don't remember a thing. :-) Hey, we made it through the dental work, we can DO this!!
Selma
Cindy Pastrano I know I saw that too and was like "HOLY SMOKES" that could not have been good.....So definitely we n ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano I know I saw that too and was like "HOLY SMOKES" that could not have been good.....So definitely we need to make best buddies with our anesthesiologists and let him know throwing up is not an option....basically just wake me up once all the tubes are out....lol. Here's to us not remembering our breathing tube and thank goodness the dental nightmare is over. We can get through anything!!! :))
On April 19, 2012...
Cindy,
It's OK to feel that way! I think as long as you acknowledge the fear, anxiety, whatever and cry if you have to, you are then better able to keep moving forward. I think letting it out is better than bringing that tension with you into surgery. You will do great!!
Cindy Pastrano Thank you so much for the words of encouragement!!!!
On April 19, 2012...
Hi, again, my "sister in surgery!" I swear, I could have written your post. It's amazing how the emotional ups and downs wash over you. For me, the trick to handling the occasional times of fear and big emotion is to accept that it's natural, honor it, and move on.
We WILL get through this; 2 months from now we'll be comforting people who are where we are today. I'm glad your mom was able to help you through it. I still haven't told mine (she's 96 and, while she's 100% with-it, I'm not sure I want her to be worrying for the next month!)
Hang in there, you!
Cindy Pastrano Hey girl, I'm thinking this is Selma but not sure.....thanks....Heck yeah we're gonna get through thi ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Hey girl, I'm thinking this is Selma but not sure.....thanks....Heck yeah we're gonna get through this, just wish we were already through it..... hehe.....Anywho you are right this is what it is and we are human. I can understand about your mom (96, that is beautiful). Thanks for the support we can just hold each other up and get through this thing!!!!
On April 19, 2012...
Cindy, the meltdown is completely normal! We all have our "moments", some call it the big cry, others meltdown...whatever. It is part of the process and you needed it! I had AVR on March 13th and I PROMISE you it was not bad at all! I was so prepared for it to be awful and it just was not. I thought everyone was lying about waiting being the hardest part...but believe me...it is so true. You are going through the hardest part right now! You have your meltdown out of the way, now it will get a little better. Those thoughts will never go completely away until your surgery is over, but they sort of just get out of the way so you can get on with getting ready and prepared. I wasted way too much energy worrying during the waiting...I promise you will do great...it's not exactly a vacation, but it is not so bad. Hang in there!
Linda Dixon, AVR 3/13/2012
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Linda, I thought I was all ready no big deal, you know thought to myself "you've been through ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Linda, I thought I was all ready no big deal, you know thought to myself "you've been through this before" and then I don't know I just lost it for a little bit. It's crazy I'm not worried about getting through surgery I'm scared to death about the breathing tube, I just pray I don't remember it at all. I'm scared to death of needles so to wake up with one in my neck, just scares me. I just want it over with, I want to be on your side already recovering and encouraging everyone else. Thanks for your comments I've followed you through your journey, your doing Fantastic and I pray I'm half as brave as you....thanks for everything....I really mean that, you don't know how much it helps.....Cindy :)
On April 18, 2012...
Stay strong! Keep in mind, those of us who have had OHS have been there. If you've read my early journal entries, I went through the same thing. I had my fair share of uncontrollable emotions. As others here have said, the waiting and worrying is the worst part. Hang in there!
Chris Barnes
Cindy Pastrano Thank you Chris for your words of encouragement, it's easier to talk to everyone here cause you all u ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Thank you Chris for your words of encouragement, it's easier to talk to everyone here cause you all understand and I don't want to scare my family too much with my fears!!
On April 15, 2012...
Hey Cindy. Its Stephanie...from Louisville. Just wanted to thank you for your note on my guestbook. It helps to get little notes here and there from those going thru similar or the same issues as I have had. I have received good feedback about cardiac rehab so perhaps that is the ticket! I also wanted to wish you good luck since May 7th is fast approaching. Im sure you will do great. Thanks again for lifting my spirits!
Cindy Pastrano I'm glad I could help, keep in touch and let me know how your first day in rehab is.
On April 13, 2012...
Hi Cindy, hope all went well today at the DDS. After all of this nasty stuff OHS will be a breeze! Take care.
-Mitch Friedman
Cindy Pastrano Crazy but it turned out to not to be bad at all, sitting here tonight thinking I should have some pai ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Crazy but it turned out to not to be bad at all, sitting here tonight thinking I should have some pain but knocking on wood, nothing, Yahoo!!!
And I think I found my song to focus on, Bring on the Rain by Jo De Messina.
Have a great weekend Mitch!!!
On April 13, 2012...
I had my final dental clearance visit this morning, too! My life-long dental phobia led to a situation that needed treatment. The treatment (which I dreaded) wasn't that big a deal. I had it 3 weeks ago, and today she gave me the all clear for my surgery. So...that's that! Hope all went well for you. Take the pain pills and have a nice lie-down.
Selma K
Cindy Pastrano So far it has not been bad, the dentist (well orhdontist) started my iv that was a surprise and befor ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano So far it has not been bad, the dentist (well orhdontist) started my iv that was a surprise and before he started for some reason the put a towel around my head and covered my eyes, so felt a small prick and next my husband was helping me in the car. Feeling super tired tonight but so far no pain, Yahoo!!!!
Glad you are all done too, so now we set here and wait, watching that darn clock tick slowly by, urgh....
Have a good weekend and talk to ya soon,
Cindy
On April 13, 2012...
Cindy,
It's another hurdle, this visit to the dentist, but I know that you'll clear it. And you're getting closer to your fix the heart date. I had an implant five or six years ago, and the dentist gave me the right mix of sedatives and pain pills - for me, there was no significant problem
- Jim Smith
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Jim good to hear from someone who had a positive experience, this will all be over in just a f ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Jim good to hear from someone who had a positive experience, this will all be over in just a few hours I just keep telling myself that.
Good luck at the dentist. I recommend "sweet air" given your apprehension about dentists. This will relax you considerably. I used to have a fear/dislike of dentists, so much that I didn't go for 10 years! I finally went and told the dentist that I really didn't like dentists because of a bad childhood experience. He was very gentle and suggested the sweet air. After major root canals and all sorts of things, I finally relaxed enough not to need sweet air and now I go to the dentist every six months. In fact, I don't mind going to the dentist anymore and I love my dentist. Good luck again! Lily
Cindy Pastrano Hi Lily, thanks so much for the encouraging words, they did prescribe me a valium to take an hour bef ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Hi Lily, thanks so much for the encouraging words, they did prescribe me a valium to take an hour before so that should help, plus they said to take 2 pain pills an hour before also, thank goodness my husband is taking me. But at least tomorrow is the last of it....Whew
On April 11, 2012...
Hey Cindy, Prayers are going your way for your niece and family. Hope she can over come that, she is so young. Good luck to you and yours.
For the long haul'
Linda H
Cindy Pastrano Thank you Linda, good news today her weight stayed stable today so no hospital, but the prayers are n ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Thank you Linda, good news today her weight stayed stable today so no hospital, but the prayers are needed and appreciated, this is a fight that started over 8 months ago.
On April 10, 2012...
Sorry to hear your niece is dealing with that Cindy. Will send a prayer your way and hope her situation improves asap.
Best of luck and let us know how she's doing.
-Tom H.
Cindy Pastrano Thank you Tom for your kind words and prayers.
On April 4, 2012...
Great news Cindy that you set a date! Remember, the waiting is the hardest part, try not to make yourself nuts. You sound like you are in a really good place right now. Way to go!
Take care,
-Mitch Friedman
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Mitch and yeah I think I'm ready and I have so much to do this month so I'll be busy.
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Mitch and yeah I think I'm ready and I have so much to do this month so I'll be busy.
Cindy
On April 4, 2012...
Hi Ciny,
Great news that your plan is in place. I felt much relieved when after my consultation with my surgeon, when we then set the date for my valve repair surgery (3/13/2012). This dental clearance is normal; I had to get that taken care of too. Blessings
- Jim Smith
First off, How are you feeling? Hey I really enjoyed your posts, the top 10 heart songs so cool and fun.
Second, yes having a plan and a date I feel much better and I'm ready to just get this over and done. Don't know if it's normal but for now I feel really good about everything, not too nervous or scared, so I'm going with that.
The dental part well not too happy about that, I have not been good about my dental so I have to have an extraction next Friday (yuck), but gotta get it done.
Thanks for the continued support and of course continued prayers that your recovery continues without any hitches.
Cindy
On March 30, 2012...
Ew, dental clearance. I had to have something called "root scaling" before she'd sign off on me. Given the choice, I'd rather have open heart surgery. Hopefully, your teeth will be happier than mine.
My surgery date is May 11th. Hope they give me a room with a view -- Central Park should be pretty that time of year. By then, you'll probably be running laps.
Selma
On March 30, 2012...
Sounds like you're well on your way. I hear you about the information overload....but I truly think that's half of why this process is going so well for me. The other half is the HVJ support. Knowing what's coming helps so much to allay the fear and anxiety that accompanies the unknown. Plus, being in TX, you're in the land of amazing heart surgeons, too. Lots of great options.
Looking forward to your check-ins as the day grows closer.
Selma Kaplan
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Selma, I know I really love this site it is the first time I've been able to talk to so many h ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Thanks Selma, I know I really love this site it is the first time I've been able to talk to so many heart patients going through the same thing, it has helped me so much to just not feel all alone. This will actually be my second heart surgery, I had a repair to my aorta when I was about six but I don't remember much about that.
Today I have to make my dental appt., yuck so not looking forward to that but what can ya do, haha....
Thanks for the support and right back to you, when is your surgery date again?
Cindy
On March 29, 2012...
Great you are getting info and making decisions Cindy. Check out Jeff Shebovsky and Chris Dixon, they are the Ross Twins. Both had it done a few weeks ago in NYC. Both great guys who old be glad to speak to you if you have any questions.
As you get further into the process, you will get calmer. The waiting is much worse than the actual event.
Tale care and good luck.
-Mitch Friedman
Cindy Pastrano Yes indeed and things are moving really fast now and thank goodness I actually spoke with Jeff last w ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Yes indeed and things are moving really fast now and thank goodness I actually spoke with Jeff last week, so very helpful in deciding to go with the Ross and after talking with the surgeon yesterday I feel even more confident about it. I still plan to get a hold of Chris, but I think I will stay put down here in Texas I just really feel I need to be around all of my family.
And a big thank you to you for all your continued support even during your healing time, you are truly an inspiration!!
So my goal is the Rock N Roll Marathon (November) hopefully I will be able to participate again this year!!!
Cindy
On March 29, 2012...
Two hours? Wow, it's no wonder you feel overwhelmed! You must have gotten a ton of information. I would guess it will take a while to sink in. How is your husband handling it? I think it really helps them to bea part of the whole ordeal. I tend to handle things on my own but am trying to let me husband be more of a part of this as its a biggy.
Nancy B
Cindy Pastrano We are on information overload and my poor husband I think is a little shocked it seems I have all th ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano We are on information overload and my poor husband I think is a little shocked it seems I have all three systems and this surgeon wants to not waste any time. I was hoping to put it off until June and he's talking about next week or the following so today I have to make my appt with the dentist to get my clearance and then call and schedule my surgery, wow it's moving super fast.
You have an appt with a surgeon next week right? It's crazy we have to go through this, but I'm praying for you. Let me know how your doing.
Cindy
On March 22, 2012...
I knew this would happen some day but I just didn't expect that day to come so soon. Whatever you need all you have to do is ask and I mean that. You must be a bit scared but you're a strong women and will be just fine. You have so many people that love you and we all will be praying for you.
Love you my friend,
Kelly
Cindy Pastrano Kelly, thanks my friend you are so dear to me and I appreciate everything. I'm a little nervous to b ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Kelly, thanks my friend you are so dear to me and I appreciate everything. I'm a little nervous to be honest but excited at the same time if that makes any sense, my worrying is finally going to end and I look forward to my life without heart problems....Yahoo!!!
Thanks for your prayers maybe we can have lunch soon.
Love ya too,
Cindy
On March 19, 2012...
Cindy. Call Jeff. Direct. He'd be great to talk with on the Ross. Good for you. At least reach out to hi. On his guesbook. He super and all have great info
Good lucj. We re all behind you. I'm 5 weeks post and doing super. Thanks
Nancy Friedman. At Louis mo 2-9 -12. D o n e
Cindy Pastrano Nancy, thank you so much it means a lot. It has helped a lot reading everyone's success stories. I' ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Nancy, thank you so much it means a lot. It has helped a lot reading everyone's success stories. I'll get in touch with Jeff too.
I can not wait to be on the other side of this and feeling good again.
Cindy
On March 16, 2012...
my pulmonary hypertension (or lack thereof) came up when I mentioned the shortness of breath I'd been having. I guess the jet of regurgitated blood shooting back into the atrium could be blocking some of the blood tha should be going to my lungs (or something like that).
On March 16, 2012...
I had mild pulmonary hypertension during my first echo but it didn't show during the 2nd echo. From what I understand it can cause shortness of breath.
nancy B
Cindy Pastrano My echo showed I had moderate pulmonary hypertension and the heart cath shows it as mild, so still th ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano My echo showed I had moderate pulmonary hypertension and the heart cath shows it as mild, so still there. I don't smoke so I am just wondering if it's just caused by my stenosis, which I think is severe. I do have tightness in my chest almost all the time, I get dizzy or light headed quite a bit. Did they say anything to you about it or since it wasn't there in the second echo they just left it alone?
"Our data indicate that pulmonary artery hypertension in aortic stenosis is common, is related to end-diastolic pressure, and can be expected to improve in the early postoperative period."
Discuss w/ your cardiologist. Best wishes -- DVB
On March 6, 2012...
Hey Cindy...I echo what Mitch wrote below. I am 47 and chose tissue. There are pros-cons with each, so you just have to come to your own conclusion of whats best for you. I am on no medication except for Metoprolol (beta blocker) to regulate heart rate...1 pill a day, along w/ a baby aspirin.
I also had the sore knot from my cath during my surgery. I actually had to have an echo of it done 2 days after I got home from the hospital. It turned out to be nothing serious and it slowly went away over about 2 months.
Keep posting your questions and know you will receive a ton of great advice and support here.
JH Mattingly
Cindy Pastrano Hi JH and thank you for your reply. Did you have to travel to get the tissue valve or push the issue ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Hi JH and thank you for your reply. Did you have to travel to get the tissue valve or push the issue or were they willing to do that? After my cath they told my husband that he wanted to talk to a surgeon about maybe doing a balloon valvuplasty to try and avoid replacement, not sure if he is just be optimistic, but I have read that procedure is really reserved for younger people and very sick people who can not handle surgery. All this because of my age. My followup is not until the 19th.
Thank you again for your post,
Cindy P
On March 6, 2012...
Hi Cindy,
I also had an issue with my cath. The next night I had a raised area and went to the ER. I ended up with a huge bruise that went all the way down to my knee. It was an encapselated Hematoma. It didn't mean anything, but it was a little scary, after all they were in my artery the day before.
It didn't effect anything. I had my surgery 5 days later.
Jane (13 weeks out).
Cindy Pastrano Hi Jane, that is exactly what I have going on and yes it is a bit scary, I have had heart cath's in t ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Hi Jane, that is exactly what I have going on and yes it is a bit scary, I have had heart cath's in the past and never had this happen but I suppose that's the way it goes sometimes.
I was reading your journal and so glad everything has gone so well for you. I am in the waiting process which is very unnerving. This is not my first time having heart surgery I had a coartation of my aorta at age 7, which thankfully I don't remember a lot of.
Anywho, thanks for your post I love getting feedback on here.
Cindy
On February 29, 2012...
Hi Cimdy, glad to hear you got the cath down and it was not too bad. Coumadin is part of the valve decision you will need to make IF they decide you need to replace your valve. For now, see what they have to say, do your homework on what the limits are that apply to your condition and then see where your numbers are relative to the limits. If it needs to be replaced ask the surgeons and cardiologists their thoughts on valve. Often times for younger patients like us, I am 47, they knee jerk and say mechanical so you don't have to worry about reop. If you go mechanical then you have to contend with Coumadin.
I can tell you most of the leading centers sway you towards a tissue valve because of the Coumadin risk and because they feel reop will likely not be open heart when you need it. I went tissue. For you, for everyone really, the right answer is the one that makes you most comfortable. There is no right or wrong when it comes to valve choice.
Good luck, keep doing your homework and keep getting information. You will hit a point when you are comfortable with all of this and then you know you are ready.
All the best,
-Mitch Friedman
AVR & root repair
2-2-12
Cindy Pastrano Mitch, thanks for the reply March 19th can not get here quick enough I hate the waiting but I know it ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Mitch, thanks for the reply March 19th can not get here quick enough I hate the waiting but I know it is all part of the process.
With the tissue valve do you have to take any other medications? I know I do not want to take coumadin and I just feel that the advances they are making 10 years from now will probably be through a catheter.
I am glad I found this new doctor, he was my second opinion and I think a good move for me.
Thanks,
Cindy :)
On February 11, 2012...
Hi Cindy, welcome to HVJ. I just got home from my 2/2 surgery and just getting caught up. This site is amazing, a truly great resource. Surgeons will use the results of the cath you get now, plus it needs to be done at some point. So, go for it, but get a copy on a disc. Good luck to you.
-Mitch Friedman
Cindy Pastrano Thank you Mitch and I hope your recovery continues to go well. It has been really awesome for me to ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Thank you Mitch and I hope your recovery continues to go well. It has been really awesome for me to have found this site, it is comforting to finally talk to others who have the same problems as myself.
Cindy
On February 10, 2012...
Hi Cindy. Here are the guidelines for getting a cath for patients with aortic stenosis per the AHA/ACC Guidelines for the Management of Patients with Valvular Heart Disease (Google the title for the full pdf document):
3.1.5. Indications for Cardiac Catheterization
Class I
1. Coronary angiography is recommended before AVR in patients with AS at risk for CAD (see Section 10.2). (Level of Evidence: B)
2. Cardiac catheterization for hemodynamic measure- ments is recommended for assessment of severity of AS in symptomatic patients when noninvasive tests are inconclusive or when there is a discrepancy between noninvasive tests and clinical findings regarding sever- ity of AS. (Level of Evidence: C)
3. Coronary angiography is recommended before AVR in patients with AS for whom a pulmonary autograft (Ross procedure) is contemplated and if the origin of the coronary arteries was not identified by noninvasive technique. (Level of Evidence: C)
Class III
1. Cardiac catheterization for hemodynamic measure- ments is not recommended for the assessment of sever- ity of AS before AVR when noninvasive tests are adequate and concordant with clinical findings. (Level of Evidence: C)
2. Cardiac catheterization for hemodynamic measure- ments is not recommended for the assessment of LV function and severity of AS in asymptomatic patients. (Level of Evidence: C)
If surgery is planned, then a cath is common unless you are at extremely low risk of coronary artery disease. You can print out the guidelines and take them to discuss at your next visit.
Cindy, for the most part I feel fine. From time to time I have what I guess are palpitations, but no major symptoms. That's one reason it came as such a shock that my valve has deteriorated to the point that it is time for surgery. I will just be glad to get it over with. I'm tired of thinking about it, lol. Keep me posted...so when is your cath?
Linda Dixon
Cindy Pastrano I know what you mean the anxiety is the worse part, the watching, worrying. My cath will be on Febru ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano I know what you mean the anxiety is the worse part, the watching, worrying. My cath will be on February 28th. I am going to see my other heart doctor and the 20th, I just want to see what he says and I guess from there I will decide which doctor I feel more comfortable with. Glad you feel good for the most part, keep me up to date on you too.
On February 10, 2012...
One more thing...lol...if you have a cath now, the surgeon will more than likely use that one rather than make you have another one, assuming you have surgery. I had my cath in November, they are using that one at Cleveland Clinic. If I had not had one within 6 months, then I would have had to have another one. I found this to be true at the other facilities that I consulted with. Hope this helps.
Linda Dixon
Cindy Pastrano Yes it does help a lot, I talked to the doctor's nurse and she told me that he saw an area on my stre ... Read more
Cindy Pastrano Yes it does help a lot, I talked to the doctor's nurse and she told me that he saw an area on my stress test that looks narrow, so that plus my valve and also I told him i get little dizzy spells, they don't last long maybe 10 or 15 seconds, and my chest feels tight if I walk really fast or go up my stairs, not bad but enough to notice and sometimes I feel like my heart races for a few seconds and I never really felt that before but it happens a few times a day. How are you feeling?
On February 10, 2012...
Cindy...one more thought about the cath. It is possible that the doc recommended the cath because of something on the stress test. May not be related to the aortic valve issue, so I would not dismiss it without asking exactly why he wants the cath. It may be a long time (years) even before you need surgery for the valve. I have been <.9 for several years. Talk to your doc again about why he feels you need the cath. Good luck and I am happy to talk with you any time.
'
Getting closer...Linda Dixon
On February 10, 2012...
I had cath and TEE test done by cardio, then after getting results... you see surgeon. Janis Kielbasa
Thank you for replying to my journal update, especially when you are so close to your own surgery. It is good to read each other's emails! I sure identified with what you said about "losing it" some days -that happened to me this past week twice and it was over such small stuff. Am doing better today, and hope you are as well.
I hope and pray the best for you this week, as you approach your big day and then getting through it. Hang on!
Vel Turner
I know we are going to be okay and this site and the new friendships have helped so much. Thanks for your prayers!!! :))