Aubrey Elmo Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Mary, Dan, great news but it is what I expected for you guys. Now the trip to get the healing done and stamina back is on. Slow and steady with lot of walking and taking the meds to stay
Ain't free and active. Let know if Tammy or I can help with anything.
Dan Sinclair Thanks so much for your care and support. I hope things are going great for you. You are Dan's role m ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Thanks so much for your care and support. I hope things are going great for you. You are Dan's role model. Along with Ernie, Jim and all the others! Very elite club you all belong to! Keep the good advice coming! Mary
On November 13, 2013...
Patti posted a note for Dan that says:
Hi Dan & Mary,
So glad to hear the news that the surgery was successful. And I'm quite sure you are glad it is over! I was thinking today how scary it must have been for both of you - away from home and family and friends; basically putting all of your trust and faith in the doctor and God. But after reading your posts, it is apparent that you had the utmost confidence in your doctor, so that must have helped tremendously to put you at ease. Looking forward to seeing both of you soon.
Love,
Patti & Mike
Dan Sinclair Thanks Patti! Actually, it is great being here since the Cleveland Clinic experience so far has been ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Thanks Patti! Actually, it is great being here since the Cleveland Clinic experience so far has been amazing. I believe it's the way healthcare should be delivered. The communication as you move from dept to dept is amazing! Totally have their act together! While I miss everyone I'm too busy to notice. The hotel is great too. They provide a shuttle up to 12:30 a.m so I could stay late lady night. This website is a fantastic way to communicate so it's all good! Give your mom and Mike a hug from me!
On November 13, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Dan that says:
Go slow, rest, walk, heal and remember to eat plenty of fiber it helps.
2 foot scar! Dan people on this website are constantly trying to compensate for their other short coming. If you ask they'll let you walk outside of your hospital ward and thru others which was fun. Remember to go up to the roof top viewing area it is nice. Note to family the hot dog cart near the hospital entrance has good food.
On November 13, 2013...
Tom Huskisson posted a note for Dan that says:
Fantastic ! Mary, thanks for keeping us updated. God bless you both and praise the Lord for enabling all involved in the surgery to use the skills he blessed them with to perform at the max. We look forward to more updates in the future.
On November 13, 2013...
Rebecca S posted a note for Dan that says:
Wow! Awesome news! Darn, my scar is probably 6 inches long. Shouldn't it be that girls get the smaller ones every time? Anyways. Yes as Jeff said, "get plenty of ice Chips and jello" and I hope someone remembered the chap stick. My lips were sooooo dry I could hardly talk.
Anxious to hear that everything is moving right along. Walk, walk, walk!!!
On November 13, 2013...
Susan Smith, posted a note for Dan that says:
Well Mary, thanks for the update. We all knew he was going to do just fine. Dan it is still cold (well maybe cool) in Florida. Keep your flannel PJ out. You are now in the home stretch. Ernie is terrific. He keeps our spirits up.
On November 13, 2013...
Felipe Arango posted a note for Dan that says:
Hi Dan really happy here to know that everithing went well, wishing you the best
On November 13, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Dan that says:
Crap!
See. I do another post to the journal, and then the first one shows up!
What the hell?!!
I'm so upset, I need a trip to Maui.
On November 13, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Dan that says:
Just signed the guestbook, but it didn't show up. Hopefully it's just the website screwing up and it'll show up later.
Glad you are doing well after penis transplant surgery. Hopefully you will be happy with the new bigger model.
On November 13, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Dan that says:
4 inch incision?! P##sy! Mine starts at the base of my neck and goes down to my crotch. It's at least 2 feet long! A manly man's scar! Heckl,I've got a 10 inch scar on my back from when they cut me open before they realized they had me turned over the wrong way and had to start over.
OK, maybe I exaggerated a little.
But still, welcome to the zipper club. Glad you are doing well after surgery. Take it slow. Get plenty of protein and sleep for healing. Walk and use the hell your spirometer. And be patient, dammit! Recovery doesn't happen overnight! (Unless you're Aubrey).
On November 13, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Dan that says:
Hi Mary! That is terrific news! All the best,
On November 13, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Mary
I am incredibly happy to read your report! So pleased it went well. Tell Dan I am delighted for him. He will be drinking Kona coffee in no time! Best to you all
On November 13, 2013...
Scott Lee Retired posted a note for Dan that says:
Hi Dan!
I am 68 in Arizona and had the same as you. My doc gave me an Edwardian Bovine valve. It is day 46 for me and I must tell you that I am feeling really good. Oh yeah there were some rough days but mostly anxiety but I worked thru it. I am off all my drugs including antiarrhymic, pain killer, SSRis and sleeping pills. I just cut my HBP Toprol 25mg per day in half on my own to see if i need that much. I have started rehab and it is my second week. I too just had aortic stenosis with no coronary blockage (tennis 4 times a week) and I had the angiogram too before surgery and it broke open and my leg really got big. But now I am on the road to recovery, feeling great, and will start playing tennis in January and riding my harley. Be patient…you look healthy! and it looks like you have a great lady to take care of you…make sure she rubs your upper back and you use your breathing apparatus and start walking around asap! Good Luck!
On November 13, 2013...
Tom Ferguson posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan. Mitral valve repair with St. Jude ring
Feb.and May 2010. Minamal invasive not
Successfull .
Sternum split went well. No pain.Surgeon
credits my active life style and exercise.
Good luck.
On November 13, 2013...
Betty Barrett posted a note for Dan that says:
I've been praying that you come through your surgery in great shape and have a speedy recovery with no complications. You are so fortunate to still have your job and more importantly your great family.
On November 13, 2013...
Tara M posted a note for Dan that says:
Praying for you and yours, that surgery and recovery go well with no complications.
On November 13, 2013...
Kathy Snodgrass posted a note for Dan that says:
This website is amazing! I'm sure you'll have many stories to tell after being there. I'm sure their care is over the top! Good luck and God bless!
On November 12, 2013...
Lise Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan - I wish you all the best - you have certainly selected a top facility! Sending positive thoughts your way !!
On November 12, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan
Congrats on being featured patient! I hand the baton to you. You can do this, Dan. The next lap is yours. We are cheering you around the track.The very best outcome tomorrow!
On November 12, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Dan that says:
No pressure, but I just checked my email, and the Heartvalve newsletter had you as the featured patient. So get in there and kick some ass. I know you will do your best. You got this, dude!!
Dulcolax and pain meds! Take your pain meds at regular intervals.
On November 12, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Dan that says:
We are all so with you tomorrow Dan- you will have an excellent outcome. It will be done and you can join Jim and I as the newest members of the groaners club!
On November 12, 2013...
Anne Shannon posted a note for Dan that says:
Good luck! I had a AVR in Cleveland in July 2010. Dr. Mihaljevic did it Through a 3-4 inch incision. My recovery was amazingly fast. Surgery on Friday afternoon and out Monday AM. Flew back to Denver on Tuesday. Felt great almost immediately - no pain to speak of!
Hope you have the same results. You are in the Best Hospital with the best surgeon. It will all be fine!
On November 12, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan,
Thoughts and prayers are with you as you
begin the next stage of your journey. You will do great! It will be nice to be on the other side of surgery. Ice chips are the best after surgery!
On November 12, 2013...
Susan Smith, another Floridian posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan you are on your way. I see your smile a mile away(maybe several miles away). You will do just fine. Keep us posted. Oh! Florida is getting a cold snap ( no snow) It will be in the 60's tomorrow. That is when we all get our long johns out. LOL
On November 12, 2013...
Rebecca S posted a note for Dan that says:
Looking forward to hear you are in recovery and doing well. Prayers going up!
On November 12, 2013...
Linda H and Elsie posted a note for Dan that says:
Hey Dan, From what I am seeing on the news, looks like you have experienced some of those snow showers there. Hope you could enjoy them before surgery. We might even get a flake or two in SC also. Good luck tomorrow and you will be in my prayers for a safe and speedy surgery. See you on the other side. Hugs
On November 12, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan ask for ice chips and the world's best red jello in the Cleveland ICU. You're in our prayers, you'll do great.
On November 12, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Love to you and yours tomorrow from Lise and me. Dan, I am trusting in a wonderful outcome and extended great health. We're with you.
On November 12, 2013...
Cheryl & Rob Tarrou posted a note for Dan that says:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you both…remind yourselves that you are surrounded by people who love and care for you deeply and look forward to your return:)
Mary…don't forget to hold on to that cross and think of all the people praying for dan and remind yourself that I am there next to YOUR heart…Much love and blessings, Cheryl & Rob
On November 12, 2013...
Barb Brooks posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan,
Will be thinking about you tomorrow. Wishing you all the best... you'll be fine.
On November 12, 2013...
Allen posted a note for Dan that says:
Best wishes Dan! I have a friend having surgery with the same doctor next month. You chose wisely, we'll be thinking of you and sending good thoughts!
On November 12, 2013...
John Manning posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan, best wishes and have a speedy recovery! You are in an excellent hospital who specializes in your situation. I will keep you in my thoughts!
On November 12, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Hey Dan, great hospital and great surgeon. You are in wonderful hands. I will be thinking of you thru your surgery. Please have someone post on your behalf if you can. You will do wonderfully, Dan! We are with you.
On November 12, 2013...
Jim LeMaster posted a note for Dan that says:
I have to tell you, you made a great choice in Dr. Gillinov and Cleveland. I had mitral valve repair plus a bypass last fall via full sternotomy at age 62. He is truly a magician. Cleveland's pain management is unreal, I can honesty say I never hurt except for my shoulders after I returned home. His team in ICU and on the recovery floor are wonderful folks. I had my surgery on Thursday afternoon, was back in my room on Friday, walking the hall on Saturday and was released to my hotel on Tues. a final check On Thurs. and I was on my my way home to WV. By the way if you have not made hotel reservations the Wyndham Playhouse Square has a great rate for clinic patients - like 85 bucks a night and they even have a shuttle back and forth to the clinic. I did my rehab at home, finished that and am still going to the gym 3-4 days a week. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Welcome to the zipper club! Jim in WV
On November 12, 2013...
Sandy Gilbert posted a note for Dan that says:
You are in good hands with the best of the best and in the right place. Dr. G did my aortic replacement April 13, 2010 and I am still ticking.
Good luck and enjoy the journey!
P.S. Read my journal if you are just hanging around. Sandy Gilbert
On November 12, 2013...
Joseph Kusiak posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan,
Yes it goes by quickly though at times it might seem a tad slow. You are in a great place and your confidence in surgeon is so important. Thursday evening you will be on the recovery road.
On November 12, 2013...
Kerstin posted a note for Dan that says:
Aloha Dan,
I live on Oahu.....glad you got to go to Maui.
I'm facing heart valve replacement surgery, too. I am contemplating Mainland hospitals, but have already made connections at Queen's in Honolulu. Will update as I go through process.
On November 12, 2013...
Deb Ziegler posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan,
Glad to hear you had a good meal at
L'Albatros! Sounds you like you were there at a good time.
Good luck with your heart cath today. You are probably done by now and resting comfortably. Hope your arteries are CLEAN.
You have a big day tomorrow, and then you will be on the other side. The waiting is the worst, and that is almost over. I'm glad you felt comfortable with Dr. Gillinov.
I know I felt a lot more positive after my appointment with him. He is so confident (and competent) that you can't help but be upbeat after talking with him.
Godspeed and good luck tomorrow. You will be in my prayers until I hear "it went perfectly"!
On November 12, 2013...
Ger posted a note for Dan that says:
Good luck brother, I love you. Will be watching for updates. See you soon and thanks for the great birthday present.
On November 12, 2013...
Debbie@thatcardstuff.com posted a note for Dan that says:
Hi Dan - after surgery, I didn't tolerate the pain pills well (nauseous), so a great nurse told the doctor and had it switched to dilaudid. That worked well for the first day or so, then ultimately went back to less strong meds. Don't forget to ask for a hug pillow to hold to your chest to help w/coughing, getting out of bed, etc. Best thing I did for myself was walk as soon as they told me I could. First few times were just a short distance, but each time was a little farther and I believe it ultimately speeded recovery. I was working before two month's time! Many prayers and well wishes to you and yours. Debbie (Maui)
On November 11, 2013...
Rose posted a note for Dan that says:
Love you daddy!! Sounds like you are in good hands! The most important man in my life deserves the best care possible!!!
Stay warm! Take a picture of some snow for us!
Dan Sinclair Love you too Rose, Going to kick this right in the ....We did wake up to a white cover over the city ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Love you too Rose, Going to kick this right in the ....We did wake up to a white cover over the city this AM. The streets are not covered but the cars and green spaces are. Looks Cold outside.
On November 11, 2013...
Lindsay posted a note for Dan that says:
Love you so much daddy!!!! Your girls are all with you in spirit every second of the day!
Dan Sinclair I can feel it Lindsay, No Worries. Tell Brandon that it snowed here last night.
We'll see you in Dece ... Read more
Dan Sinclair I can feel it Lindsay, No Worries. Tell Brandon that it snowed here last night.
We'll see you in December Dr. Sinclair, when I am going to be in feeling pretty good. and ready to take you on for a run around the neighborhood, ok maybe a fast walk. Love You!
On November 11, 2013...
Susan Smith posted a note for Dan that says:
Looking for a good report on the cath test. Love Aubrey's advise. Makes sense to me. Remember "a good report".
Dan Sinclair Thanks Susan, Thats what we are trying for. I'm thinking Aubrey is the one to copy, but Ernie sounds ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Thanks Susan, Thats what we are trying for. I'm thinking Aubrey is the one to copy, but Ernie sounds like he has more fun! lol. Speaking of Ernie not heard much from him as of late, going to check his journal.
Take Care!
On November 11, 2013...
Aubrey posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan, good luck in the cath. Mine was perfectly clear so no issues there, but I was nauseous for about 3 to 4 hours afterwards. This may have been an indicator that I would have been throwing up for the first hours after surgery. The pain drugs kept this bearable but if your prone to being sick from the anesthesia, grab the anesthesiologist by both lapels, pull him very close and make sure he understands to try his very best to prevent the nausea. At least, after that, your confident they did their best, then you can either smile because you were not sick or that they at least tried their best, lol.
Even if your sick for a while, the drugs really work pretty well and the nurses should be able to handle that over the first day or so. I found graham crackers with a bite every fifteen to thirty minutes helped it pass too. Now go kick the OHS butt my friend. Take your pain meds and this lets you do your activities. Find the level that let's you be active and still mostly pain free. One was one hydrocone every three hours instead do two every four. Find your level and stay there until you know your ready to transition down. The doctors office told me to nor taper off until at least eon and half weeks after I got home and preferably two weeks. That actually said they had more trouble with pain in the younger patients (read that as under like 65) than folks in their 80's. By the way, if during your walks, a guy that is 82 laps you in the hospital, may be the same guy that lapped me. I considered tripping him for showing me up and being 25 years my senior as well, lol. Wave as he goes by.
Dan Sinclair Aubrey, I think I just might trip the old geiser if he passes me lol.
Sounds like a veteran that my w ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Aubrey, I think I just might trip the old geiser if he passes me lol.
Sounds like a veteran that my wife and I were talking to the other night at a restaurant. He was wearing a hat that had World War II, Korean and Viet Nam. He was fixing to turn 90 and was going to take a trip driving across the US if he could talk his 80 year old "companion" into it, said he outlived his first two wives. Take Care!
On November 11, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan, my cath turned out to be a piece of cake. I was surprised. Take care.
On November 11, 2013...
Rebecca S posted a note for Dan that says:
Sending good thoughts and prayers for a smooth surgery. Praying for the surgeon and the anesthesiologist and the staff, as well as your family and friends. Soon you will be in recovery and moving ahead.
Dan Sinclair Thanks Rebecca, I really appreciate the thoughts and prayers. Cath today, Surgery tomorrow.
On November 10, 2013...
Cheryl posted a note for Dan that says:
Hey you two...I guess this means you made it to Cleveland safely! Rob sends only positive thoughts and is so sorry he missed last night but demands a rain-check!...thanks for including me and you know where I am if you need an ear Mary.
Sending hugs...Cheryl & Rob
Dan Sinclair Hey Guys, Stay Tuned, Mary will be keeping everyone posted as things progress. Thanks for the hugs!
On November 10, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan,
I will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers as you go through all the tests and then surgery on Wednesday. I was pretty calm those last few days because I think I realized I had no other option. You are at 1 of the top 3 heart places in the country( I am partial to Mayo- Rochester!) You will come to realize after surgery that it is so wonderful to be on the other side of surgery! Be sure to give one of your family members your password to your journal so they can keep all of us up to date. Take care.
Dan Sinclair Carol
Thank You, My wife Mary will be taking over the journal and I like Jim am worried that I may no ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Carol
Thank You, My wife Mary will be taking over the journal and I like Jim am worried that I may not get it back, my wife likes to talk, no she loves to talk.
Take Care,
On November 10, 2013...
Adam Pick posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan,
You could not be in better hands. Dr. Gillinov is one of the gurus!
Keep on tickin!
Dan Sinclair That is why we are here Adam.
Thank you for this site and Thank You for the Book. It has made my anxi ... Read more
Dan Sinclair That is why we are here Adam.
Thank you for this site and Thank You for the Book. It has made my anxiety level sooooo much better!
On November 10, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan they took wonderful care of me and everyone we met there at Cleveland.
I don't always have heart surgery, but when I do I prefer CCF.
Take care. Are you signed up for testing Monday and Tuesday?
BTW.... they have great anti-nausea medicine in the ICU worked like magic for me.
Ain't free and active. Let know if Tammy or I can help with anything.