Lynn Ennis posted a note for Dan that says:
Don't worry about a thing Dan- they so have this! They have planned for anything and everything. My bests advice: turn yourself over 100% to the nurses. They will do right by you.
Dan Sinclair I will take your advice to Heart.... Lynn.
Thank You for sharing your experience to date, it has hel ... Read more
Dan Sinclair I will take your advice to Heart.... Lynn.
Thank You for sharing your experience to date, it has helped me for sure!
On November 10, 2013...
Susan Smith, a traveler on the same bus. posted a note for Dan that says:
Brrr! Sorry you wont get a chance to sight see, but who knows how it will all play out. So Wednesday is the new date for the beginning of the rest of your life. Keep us all posted as you march forward ( or is it roll). Got you in my prayers.
On November 7, 2013...
Jessica Zhang posted a note for Dan that says:
Hi Dan:
Yes, time goes very fast. Hope your surgery is going well and will be. This type of surgery is pretty mature and successful. I will have open heart surgery in Toronto on Thursday, Nov. 21, just one week after you. I had my pre-admission yesterday. everything went well. So I will go to hospital on my surgery date. Keep in good healthy until our surgery date, which is very important. God blesses you and will be with all the persons who had and will have this surgery. Take Care,
On November 7, 2013...
Deb Ziegler posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan,
Yes, we stayed at the Suites also. It is really nice and very convenient. It is only a block and a half from the hospital, and the staff there is very nice and accommodating. You will not want to be walking around there at night though.....it's pretty sketchy! There are security guards everywhere around the hospital and hotel, and that is a good thing.
Our favorite place to eat is a place called
L'Albatros in the University Circle. All locally grown food with a French twist.
Not too spendy and good atmosphere. There is a really funky bar right next door called The Barking Spider which might be worth checking out (even though you can't drink!) as a nice mind diversion. Those last few days of hanging out are kind of surreal, so it is nice to stay busy.
We also had a great meal at the big Intercontinental Hotel restaurant (the one that is connected to the hospital), but it was very expensive. Be sure to eat well before surgery because the food at CCF is awful (at least for the patients). You won't be very hungry though.
We just got back from my two year post surgery check up at CCF. I haven't had time to post about it, but it went well. We stayed at the Glidden House which a really nice boutique hotel in University circle. Not as convenient as the Suites, but a good place to stay if you have to go back for a day or two. It is such a different world from the rest of Cleveland.
Definitely worth checking out. Hope you get some good weather for your pre surgery days.
Safe travels and a successful surgery are my prayers for you!
Dan Sinclair Thank You Deb, I will be letting everyone know how everything is going. Take care and Enjoy!
On November 7, 2013...
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12 posted a note for Dan that says:
Hey Dan That was funny. :) about the snow showers. We moved to SC to get out of the snow. Well snow showers could be snow mixed with rain but it will be cold so take your thermals with you. If you have lived in Fl all your life you will feel it so take warm clothes. Now I would not worry to much about snow showers as I would to a Lake Effect storm. That is heavy stuff. Take care and have a safe trip. Dr G. is the best read Linda Dixons journal. Will keep you in my prayers.
Dan Sinclair Ha Ha Linda, I lived in PA for my first 15 years so I know what snow is from a kids point of view but ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Ha Ha Linda, I lived in PA for my first 15 years so I know what snow is from a kids point of view but not as an adult.
Take Care Linda and Thank You!
On November 7, 2013...
Barb Brooks posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan... You're going to the best place! Hope you have an opportunity to play tourist, and take surgery off your mind for a bit. You'll do great! I'll be thinking about you and wish you all the best!
Dan Sinclair Barb,
Most important how are you feeling?
How is the cat doing?
We are going to do the Rock and Roll ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Barb,
Most important how are you feeling?
How is the cat doing?
We are going to do the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for sure and as much other stuff as we can fit in BS, AS don't think I will be doing to much.......
Do you have any must see or do's?
Take Care!
On November 7, 2013...
Deb Ziegler posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan,
You will do great! CCF is an amazing place, and so is Dr. Gillinov. It will be a big adventure, so try to enjoy the ride!
You might want to ask for a room with a view when you get out of ICU. J6 has two types of rooms....ones with an incredible view of the city, and ones that look at a brick wall. I got the wall (not that it really mattered), but I would have much preferred one with a great view! I don't know if they will honor your request, but it certainly is worth a try.
If you have time and nice weather, check out University Circle about a mile from the CCF campus. It is beautiful part of the city with cool museums, parks and some very cool architecture. Also great restaurants.
Where are you staying (before surgery)?
Godspeed and good luck! You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Dan Sinclair We are staying at the Cleveland Clinic Suites Hotel, is that where you stayed?
Any particular restaur ... Read more
Dan Sinclair We are staying at the Cleveland Clinic Suites Hotel, is that where you stayed?
Any particular restaurants I should hit BS? We have Sunday night through Wednesday night to figure out. It is always great to have input from someone who has been there and done that. Thanks Deb!
On November 7, 2013...
Angelo Varrone posted a note for Dan that says:
Wow, you must have NEVER lived in the north. Snow showers are much colder than just snow... and you get wet and cold as a result. Bring your coat, if you have one... But, seriously, best of luck. Your hospital has a fantastic reputation and I'm sure you'll do great. I'm 13 weeks past my own AVR and feel like I never had surgery. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Dan.
Dan Sinclair Hey Angelo,
For the most part, joking, I did live in PA for the first 15 years of my life so I sort o ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Hey Angelo,
For the most part, joking, I did live in PA for the first 15 years of my life so I sort of remember what that white stuff is.
Thanks for your thoughts and you sound like you are doing great and that is good news to me! Take Care!
On November 7, 2013...
Susan Smith posted a note for Dan that says:
Snow showers! Yikes or is that Yuk? Bring your long underwear and layer up. My family lives in Denver and I have been continually reminded what "snow showers" are like. Of course in Florida everyone (99%) are transplants from some northern part of the USA.
Glad you are on the final week of this part of your journey. Give best to Mary and tell her we will look forward to her posts as you go through the pre-surgical process. Like the tee shirt saying... how true it is. I will be following you and Mary as you get to the goal post. Just remember when the back of the gown flies open, just smile at everyone and keep on trucking. LOL
Dan Sinclair You are right about the 99% being transplants, I am from PA originally but Mary is a rare bird, she w ... Read more
Dan Sinclair You are right about the 99% being transplants, I am from PA originally but Mary is a rare bird, she was born in St Petersburg, one of the few I met when I moved here 42 years ago. Both of Mary's parents are from PA also...
Regarding the gown,
I guess I will find out what it feels like to moon people...........
On November 6, 2013...
Aubrey posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan, know you will be headed in soon. Keep posting and let us know your progress. Also, the doctors stopped all my exercise weeks before surgery because of the fear of stressing the heart and having it go into a dangerous rhythm. I was really glad I did when they found out during the surgery the valve was much worse than the numbers indicated. Talk to your cardiologist and surgeon about it just to make sure.
Looking forward to seeing on the other side doing all the right things.
Like I said I am going to try to copy your recovery with exception of the re-open thing. Thank you so much for your input, we will keep you posted, Mary will take over my journal next week about this time. The exercise thing has been put on hold due to working 15 hour days prior to my trip to Maui and 12 hour days prior to my trip to Cleveland. I did get in a nice 5 mile walk on Sunday which was amazing in the fact that Mary almost kept up with me and in fact made the entire 5 miles just a little behind me along with a few short cuts. She thinks she will finally be able to keep up with me for a while post surgery and I'm thinking she is right about that.
On November 5, 2013...
Jim Pattillo posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan,
Nice Maui pictures. I had AVR in May of 2012. I was in Maui in September and ran the Maui Marathon (26.2 miles). Heart surgery shouldn't stop anyone from doing anything they did before! Best of luck to you.
Jim
Dan Sinclair Thanks Jim
Wow, I cannot imagine being able to run for 26.2 miles let alone 5 months after OHS. You a ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Thanks Jim
Wow, I cannot imagine being able to run for 26.2 miles let alone 5 months after OHS. You are the Man!
Maui was beautiful and it was a great get away before surgery.
Take Care
On November 5, 2013...
Susan Smith posted a note for Dan that says:
Hey Dan, I found you and see that you are on the West coast and I am on the East coast of Florida. Almost a straight line across. I am 40 miles north of WPB. Time is moving up quickly for you and so I will be following your progress. Your family is beautiful. You are a blessed man. Keep on smiling.
Dan Sinclair Thank You and You are right, I truly feel that I am a blessed man. Thank you for your comments. My wi ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Thank You and You are right, I truly feel that I am a blessed man. Thank you for your comments. My wife has a shirt with a quote from I think Mother Theresa it says I know God will not give me anything I cant handle, I just wish he didnt trust me so much.......
On November 3, 2013...
sandy wummer posted a note for Dan that says:
best wishes to you Dan for a smooth surgery and speedy recovery. I had my second valve 12 weeks ago. don't rush back into routine too soon, take your time, especially things like work. it isn't about your heart, its about giving your body a rest. loved your family pics of the island
Dan Sinclair Thanks Sandy,
Second in twelve weeks, ouch and you still have a great attitude. You are a trooper for ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Thanks Sandy,
Second in twelve weeks, ouch and you still have a great attitude. You are a trooper for sure. Not sure how I would take that but you do what you got to do right. Where is Denver PA? I am originally a Pennsylvanian as well, Pittsburgh Area. Take Care!
On November 2, 2013...
Tim posted a note for Dan that says:
You are going to be sweet Mary
YOU FIGURE THAT PART OUT
On November 2, 2013...
Tim Sinclair posted a note for Dan that says:
Be Strong, Live Strong, and you can only be out of work for 5 days, SO COME BACK FAST love you brother!
Dan Sinclair Five days, what am I going to do with the three extra days?
On November 1, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan, I think Ernie's mom deserves the all expense paid trip to Maui if anyone gets one.
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Hey Dan
We are all packed up and ready to go tomorrow morning. I had someone ask me today if this was out-patient surgery. Umm, not exactly.. I need to get better with my descriptions! With my luck I will rub my hospital gown off against the door jam and be left with just tubes and socks! Sounds like you are in a good place. That is great. All the best as you wrap things up. I find the key thing for me is to stay calm and focused. I just keep working the to do lists. It keeps my mind fully occupied. All the best. No ticket for Ernie is not a problem. Just buy him a drink some day. I am sure he will be cool with that.
Dan Sinclair Jim,
Well I was in a good place but your post....has left me with Not a good vision.....
I hear ya, h ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Jim,
Well I was in a good place but your post....has left me with Not a good vision.....
I hear ya, honestly I have been so busy at work I have not had time to really think about it all, but that is good in many ways, you will be on all of our minds next week and we will be anxiously awaiting your recovery posts, take care enjoy the next few days, soak in your Sox win, relax and think positive thoughts about your next race! And next year Go Rays!
On November 1, 2013...
Debbie posted a note for Dan that says:
Hi Dan - in about three weeks, it will be my one year anniversary of my aortic valve replacement surgery (Nov 19, 2012). I honestly feel better than I have in years (and, as I mentioned, I'm around your age). I truly didn't realize pre-surgery, just how not well I was feeling; only after do I now realize that!
Best wishes,
Debbie (Maui)
Dan Sinclair Debbie,
You are an amazing person, I wish that I had more time when on your island because I would h ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Debbie,
You are an amazing person, I wish that I had more time when on your island because I would have loved to meet you and your husband for coffee or a glass of wine. I have to confess that I wasn't there totally for vacation, I was there for a business conference but spent very little time at the conference, my family was there, and we were having a great time. We (just my wife and I unless I hit the lotto) will be back in four years for another conference and I told my wife that I want to save as much as we can and try to stay there for a month next time. Seven days is not enough time on Maui. We will have to get together then. Take Care and Enjoy your one year, yea! Malama pono
On October 30, 2013...
Cindy Wilson posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan: You have a beautiful family! Great reason to stay strong. Waiting is the worst part and Hawaii was a great way to pass the time. Cannot wait to celebrate your recovery!!
All the very best!
Dan Sinclair Thanks Cindy, I have been celebrating your recovery as well, believe me! Nine weeks, hosting a party ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Thanks Cindy, I have been celebrating your recovery as well, believe me! Nine weeks, hosting a party for 21 eight year old girls, we, my wife and I have been there and done that, and we loved every minute of it! We just didn't do it nine weeks post OHS. You deserve a medal! Thank you for the comments, I do have a beautiful family and I so appreciate each and every one of them.
Sincerely,
On October 30, 2013...
Linda H and Elsie posted a note for Dan that says:
Hi Dan, What a nice thing to do before surgery. It is going to give you pleasant dreams during surgery. Going on a beautiful vacation sure does help with all that we have to wait on, good medicine for the mind. Good luck to you and your family, oh beautiful pics too. You have a real nice looking family. I will keep you in my prayers and keep us all posted.
Until later
Dan Sinclair Thanks Linda...and Elsie.
It was really nice and I almost forgot about my upcoming surgery.
Yes, I am ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Thanks Linda...and Elsie.
It was really nice and I almost forgot about my upcoming surgery.
Yes, I am surrounded by beautiful and very smart women, its a tough job but someone has to do it.
Take Care!
On October 30, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Dan that says:
Sending a fellow heart valve patient to Maui is one of the best ways to get good karma before surgery. :)
I have really, really enjoyed your posts, however if I send a heart valve patient to Maui,... I can guarantee that the patient would not be there alone, would not be a male and would more than likely have some other.....traits.... that you just don't have. With that said I sincerely hope that you continue getting better each and every day! Take Care.
On October 27, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Hey Dan
I am so glad you had a chance for this vacation with your family. This will help as you prepare for surgery. Review the memories from time to time, it helps . I know your family will be incredibly supportive during your recovery. You are blessed. You and I are moving closer to healing, my friend. Best.
On October 26, 2013...
Jessica Zhang posted a note for Dan that says:
Yes, it is very important to have a trusting relationship with the surgeon, which will turn back to make the patience feel confident. Then the surgeon will be smooth as god's plan.
I am glad to know you have a wonderful vacation before your surgery. I believe your surgery will be successful.
I will have my surgery in three and half weeks. Since I don't have clear symptoms until now except one time lost consciousness, my cardiologist told me that maybe I will feel the same before and after surgery. Do your cardiologist think the same way to you?
Since I had consciousness, I reduced my gym activity from 3 miles to 2 miles every day. I know I still can walk 3 miltes without any issue. But I just don't want to push myself too hard in the case the really bad thing happens. Hope I keep my current good condition until my surgery date.
God led us to here and it must have a reason. All we can do is to follow.
Take care,
Dan Sinclair Jessica,
My cardiologist has not told me that I would feel better but I think that he thinks that I w ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Jessica,
My cardiologist has not told me that I would feel better but I think that he thinks that I will be around a lot longer if I have the surgery. I lost consciousness in June but I am still walking as much as I can and still doing five miles on the weekends, I was trying to jog in June, do not do that, jogging is bad, very bad! Walking is good, very good, but do not push yourself until you are out of breath, if two miles works then two miles is way more than a lot of people do, take it easy but take it!
On October 23, 2013...
Jessica Zhang posted a note for Dan that says:
Hi Dan:
Thanks for your encourage. Yes after I read lots of valve journal, I am not scary any more and am looking forward to have it done then I can start my recovery process and normal life.
I am working in IT as a software developer -- find a bud and fix it to make software work. Now it is time for Dr to fix my bug in my heart. The testing period is like our recovery process until the testing is completed then we are back to normal life like other people without any bugs in their body.
Thanks to share with your pictures and enjoy your vacation.
Keep in touch and talk to you soon
Dan Sinclair Well Jessica, I am still scared but not freaking out, I am feeling confident that my surgeon, my hosp ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Well Jessica, I am still scared but not freaking out, I am feeling confident that my surgeon, my hospital and my wife are going to take care of me. Take Care and keep us all posted.
On October 22, 2013...
Debbie Lynch posted a note for Dan that says:
Hi Dan,
I live in Kihei, Maui, w/my wonderful husband, Jim. Your post caught my eye of course due to the word "Maui!" I am 56 yrs. old, and coming up on my 1 yr. anniversary (Nov. 19) of an aortic valve replacement surgery. There is wonderful life after surgery - I am living proof. My husband and I were very much in the corporate world for a long time, but are now enjoying our "second" careers (he at a golf course and me at an upscale restaurant overlooking the beautiful ocean).
Off the top of my head, my three pre-surgery suggestions are:
1. Purchase a bed wedge (for under your mattress where your head goes), for more mobility on your own when getting in and out of bed at home initially.
2. If your hospital does not provide one (check ahead of time), to have a very soft pillow that will become your best friend for about a week after the surgery (to hold to your chest when getting in and out of chairs, bed, etc.). I made 1/2 dzn. for the hospital after my surgery as they indicated they were low on them. If you'd like, I can make one and send it to you (when is your surgery)?
3. A lazy-boy recliner was my "bed" initially after I got home (as laying flat was just a little too difficult). If you don't have one, you may want to borrow or buy one. Make sure, however, that the lever to put the feet and back up is super smooth and easy to operate (mine was a little "jolt-y").
Your wife and daughters are beautiful, and I'm sure will help you through the process seamlessly.
My husband and I would be happy to meet with you in Kihei (HH or for coffee) should you want any first-hand info. as to my success story. I too well understand the fear of the unknown!
Sincerely,
Dan Sinclair You are so kind Debbie, and Thank You for all of the tips. You are fortunate to live on this island, ... Read more
Dan Sinclair You are so kind Debbie, and Thank You for all of the tips. You are fortunate to live on this island, it truly is a beautiful place. We stayed at Mamas a couple of nights, now a couple of nights at Grand Wailea then a couple of nights at Hotel Wailea. These places are not for people with a thin wallet for sure, it is a once in a lifetime trip for us. Congratulations on your one year, I do understand so much more than I did before thanks to people like you and this site.
On October 22, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan you and family are on the Hawaiian vacation we all dream of, so enjoy yourself a little extra for the rest of us. It must be great to be with your family in paradise.
Dan Sinclair It really is a wonderful place and being here with my whole family....priceless!
On October 22, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Consider it rubbed in young man! Hey, we are living thru you and are delighted you have this time away. The work will come soon enough. Your daughters are lovely and seem to be having a great time. Enjoy the moment as they say!
On October 21, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Hey Danny Boy
We desperately need photos! (If you have a minute). We are living vicariously through you this week. Come on big guy, throw us a bone.
Dan Sinclair Jim,
I just posted one of my two oldest daughters at dinner. Will post more later
On October 21, 2013...
JH Mattingly posted a note for Dan that says:
Ah Maui...love that place. How'd you like the road to Hana? Now that will get your heart moving!!
Enjoy your time there Dan, get this little heart matter over with and plan your return trip!
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Dan that says:
Nice photo (you bastard).
Haven't been to any of the Hawaiian islands, but looking forward to going one of these days.
Muy jealous.
On October 20, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Dan that says:
Love it! We should all ditch this surgery thing and move to Mamas! Have a fab time!
Dan Sinclair I don't know if we should ditch the surgery thing but it should be on everyones list. However I could ... Read more
Dan Sinclair I don't know if we should ditch the surgery thing but it should be on everyones list. However I could not hang here long, it is a little on the expensive side, but often, you get what you pay for.......and this is one place worth the price, beautiful!
On October 20, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan, what a wonderful place, enjoy. I have already put it on my list. If you have time post some more photos.....I have to go check my frequent flyer miles.
Dan Sinclair Jeff,
I will post more in the coming days, this place is nice. Really Nice
On October 20, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
You dog! Outstanding photo. Do not be surprised if Ernie joins you for a few days to speed his recovery. Heck, a bunch of us may show up! How's the coffee, big guy? Savor the moment. Best.
Dan Sinclair You really should, Coffee is just as good as you remember and trust me I am savoring both the coffee ... Read more
Dan Sinclair You really should, Coffee is just as good as you remember and trust me I am savoring both the coffee and the moments. Man this would be a great place to recover at least after you are out of the woods! I am glad I had an opportunity to go BS and I look forward to going again AS.
On October 20, 2013...
Jessica Zhang posted a note for Dan that says:
Hi Dan:
I am from Toronto Canada. I have similar case to you but not all. I have monitored my aortic valve in the past 19 years. Until now, I don't have short breather and chest pain except a few timse dizzy and one time lost conscious at the end of June, 2013. I have been going to Gym in the past 8 year almost 4 to 5 days per weeks. I can walk 2 to 3 miles in gym without any issue. But I have made mind to have surgery in Nov. 2013 due to the risk not to fix may have much higher risk.
Thanks to share your daily journey with us.
Jessica,
Dan Sinclair Hey Jessica,
Please keep me posted of your jouney it is helpful to all of us on this site, everyone h ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Hey Jessica,
Please keep me posted of your jouney it is helpful to all of us on this site, everyone has so different but so much the same experiences. Sounds like you have come to the same conclusion that most of us have on this site, it is scary but we are not alone.
Take Care
On October 19, 2013...
Ernie A.S. :) posted a note for Dan that says:
Maui!!? You bastard!
Dan Sinclair I thought that may be the exact response that I would get from you Ernie, I resemble that remark!
Dan Sinclair I thought that may be the exact response that I would get from you Ernie, I resemble that remark!
Thanks, Sincerely hope all is getting better each day!
On October 19, 2013...
Cindy Wilson posted a note for Dan that says:
HI Dan:
That's exactly what my husband, daughter and I did 3 weeks before surgery, but we stayed in Oahu! When I hiked to the top of Diamond Head my husband wanted to call the cardiologist at that moment and ask him to reconsider! Hope you go and escape reality for a bit!
This is my third time to this beautiful place, I am blessed to have this third time with our daughters joining us. The first time we came here we went (rode) to the top of Haleakala, 12,000 feet and at the time I did not know what caused it but I got short of breath for the first time in my life, probably the only time other than my recent pass out while trying to jog thing. Anyway did the 38 mile bike ride down from the top it was one of the coolest things I have done. My girls are going to do it this time and I will join them the next, not going to 12,000 feet this time...
Take Care
On October 19, 2013...
Rebecca S posted a note for Dan that says:
Sounds like the perfect thing to do. Have an awesome time!!!!
Carol Foster posted a note for Dan that says:
Hey Dan,
I'm sure you know my answer on this! I'm getting ready for my cruise to Bermuda leaving next week! As long as your cardiologist and/or surgeon thinks you'll be ok, then YES DO IT!!! I'd just check with either or both of them first before you buy your tickets though. Mine was minimally invasive and will be almost 5 weeks post op. I'll be ready by then for sure! Best wishes!!
Glad to hear you are having no issues with the wires because it seems to be the SOP have not talked to my surgeon about his preference yet but it is on the list. Never know I may be a candidate for a mini so may be a non issue but one does not know at this point. Take Care!
On October 19, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan:
You know how to live. Enjoy every moment. Have some Kona coffee for me while you are there. The best. My wife and I honeymooned on Maui back in 1988. Ran into Jim Plunkett on the beach the week after he retired. I was running and he gave me a "shout out" when he saw my New England running outfit. Enjoy!
On October 19, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Are you kidding me? Absolutely go! My wife and I went to Italy for two weeks in September. I know Lynn took a trip also. The distance helps your mind. The family time is invaluable. Let us know. Send coffee!!!
Dan Sinclair On the way 30,000 feet, Kona coffee? Two daughters and wife with me the other daughter is flying in f ... Read more
Dan Sinclair On the way 30,000 feet, Kona coffee? Two daughters and wife with me the other daughter is flying in from Portland, I love St. Petersburg but Maui is .....Maui, the beach and the mountains !
On October 19, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Dan that says:
Awesome idea! My husband took me to Paris and Venice to get my mind off it all. We had a great time and I barely thought about all this. I think it really set me up for the calm I feel now.
Dan Sinclair Lynn,
I am going to try my best to barely think about it and it is going to be great even if I do.
Ta ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Lynn,
I am going to try my best to barely think about it and it is going to be great even if I do.
Take Care!
On October 18, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Dan that says:
Has your surgery date been set? I'm just on the other side of surgery and want to follow you.
Dan Sinclair Hey Carol,
Yes it has, Nov 14th
Still cannot believe it but...
On October 15, 2013...
Aubrey posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan, since you are in good health now, the surgery should be something you take in stride as a bump in the road. That is what it has turned out for me so far. While it is not a trivial surgery, it is not nearly as bad as I expected it to be. I am lucky in that my heart is healthy and no other complicating factors.
Take a deep breath and know that this can be easier than you think. Hope you do outstanding and try to get some peace of mind. Based on my experience so far, if I have to do this again in 20 years for some reason, I know it is very doable and the recovery is about pacing and not rushing. Keep positive.
JH Mattingly posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan...hang in there man, this is the worst part...the waiting. I was very anxious and nervous too. I found no magic way to get around that, but I always knew I would make it thru fine, so I was nervous but confident. Just keep focusing on the recovery phase. There are a lot of youtube videos of others after surgery and those really helped me know what to expect.
Wires are used instead of plates for access reasons and to allow more "natural" movement of the sternum. That's what my surgeon told me.
You are going to get thru this just fine and next thing you know, you will be 2 years post surgery like me.
Take care Dan and stay strong.
On October 15, 2013...
Deb Ziegler posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan,
I asked about using the the plates instead of wires before my surgery, but my surgeon did not like to use them because if they need to open you back up (which sometimes happens) it takes a lot longer to get them off than wires.
Dan Sinclair Isn't it just a few screws? Seems like it would be faster, just get out the old cordless drill motor ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Isn't it just a few screws? Seems like it would be faster, just get out the old cordless drill motor put it in reverse and open it back up. Kidding aside I have been doing a little research and it sounds interesting but I will heed the call of my surgeon as well. Thanks for your input, Take Care of yourself !
On October 15, 2013...
Susan Sevier posted a note for Dan that says:
Dan...I understand the dilemma. I continued to workout easily and felt fine and just didn't understand why I needed the surgery. But now, on the other side (4 weeks into recovery), I already feel as well as I did before the surgery and look forward to experiencing a kind of energy and health I have never ever had (since the problem was congenital and undiscovered). It is sometimes hard to trust the experts, but in my case they seem to have been spot on. Will keep you in my thoughts.
Dan Sinclair Hey Susan,
You give me hope, i have been reading your journal and was amazed at your attitude and acc ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Hey Susan,
You give me hope, i have been reading your journal and was amazed at your attitude and accomplishments.
There are a lot of brave people on this site and I so appreciate the sharing of the stories. It makes it doable. Thank You !
On October 15, 2013...
Linda H and Elsie AVR 919/12 posted a note for Dan that says:
Hey Dan, Sounds like you are so ready. You are going to do fine like a rock star. We all have been in the same shoes, so its time to kick those off and get into your running shoes for later. When I hear all the health problems of other people I thank God I had what I had, the out come is so much better. God will be there to take over. The surgery is not the worse part it is the waiting for it as you will see. Good luck and I'll keep watching.
On October 14, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Dan that says:
Hey Dan
We all are nervous. But you know what? We have the courage to face our fears and go thru with it. We have great support teams who are also nervous but think it is the right thing to do. We will move forward. All the best.
Dan Sinclair Hey Jim,
You are 100% correct.
Thanks, keep us posted.
Take Care
On October 14, 2013...
Joe posted a note for Dan that says:
Anxious is normal but as a BS survivor like Ernie, know it is the way to a healthy and normal life B.A.S.
Dan Sinclair Ok got me, B.A.S.?
I do get anxious is normal, if someone was not anxious they probably are not all t ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Ok got me, B.A.S.?
I do get anxious is normal, if someone was not anxious they probably are not all there.
Thank You for sharing your experience to date, it has hel ... Read more
Thank You for sharing your experience to date, it has helped me for sure!