So happy to hear that everything went great! Will be thinking of you ... rest up and safe travels home!!
Take Good Care!
Mary Pat
On October 20, 2011...
Yippeee!!!! You are the amazing lady we all know and love, Deb. A "perfect" 10 all the way. So glad the successful surgery is over.
Josie has been wonderful keeping us informed. I know you'll be happy to see Jimmy and Josie when you wake up:-) Bet you are ready to take a nice, medicated nap soon! Sweet dreams.
Hugs and squeezes,
Cindy
On October 20, 2011...
Deb,
We are so relieved to hear that your surgery went well. I'm sure you felt the energy from all the prayers and well wishes that were being sent your way. Take the time you need to rest and rehab - the hardest part is going to be keeping you still once you are feeling better!
Hugs, Willie and Hoopie
On October 20, 2011...
Bernie and Gertie give big and little WOOFS and WHINES and WAGS to Debbie!!!!!! Hooray!
On October 20, 2011...
Debbie,
We just received the awesome news that your surgery is over, everything went perfectly, this is amazing! A wonderful outcome for you! Way to go Debbie!
Love,
Faith
On October 20, 2011...
Fantastic News!
You'll be up and about doing the things you love to do before you know it. Your such a strong woman Deb!!
Thank you so much for all the update!! Best to Jim.
Hugs Lesa
On October 20, 2011...
yay Deb! That's awesome news about your surgery. What a relief that it went perfectly and your leaky valves are replaced. Great job. Now you can rest a bit.
Love, Kitty
On October 20, 2011...
What wonderful news!!!! So happy it is over and all went so well. Give Debbie our best!
Heidi
On October 20, 2011...
Fantastic.
Take a deep breath everyone and be ready to assist in the R&R and rehab.
Such a wonderful bit of news.
Deb is a strong woman and a fighter. Her perseverance, optimism and the love of family has done her well.
Fondly,
Libby
On October 20, 2011...
Excellent news, Pewaukee lets out a happy sigh of relief
On October 20, 2011...
Such great news! Thank you so much for the update a few minutes ago! What a sigh of relief. xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
I will tell Cherrie when she lands in a bit!
On October 20, 2011...
Dear Debbie, Jim, Tanner, and Josie -
We sure are thinking of you every minute today as we await updates on Debbie's surgery. I am picking up Cherrie from the airport in an hour. We can drive to Cleveland to see you guys tomorrow, if you think that would make Debbie smile a bit, we'd be happy to. It's only 2 hours. Lots of love from Columbus. Hang in there...xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
On October 20, 2011...
You are all amazing. Prayers all around!
Libby
On October 19, 2011...
Deb, Dr. Gillinov did my mitral repair July 12, 2011 and it was textbook. HE IS ABSOLUTELY THE BEST. What he says you can depend on - I found everything he told you to be true. Sure there is some pain first 3/4 days, but it is managed. My big thing was managing the pain meds with nausea - after couple days they found the right mixture. No complications and I am now doing cardiac rehab and doing 25 min on treadmill at 3 miles hr, 3 grade and 25 on bike. It was 3 months last week. GOD BLESSED ME GOOD AND HE WILL YOU TOO - YOU ARE IN VERY GOOD HANDS. Emilyrae Helfen
On October 19, 2011...
Go Doogie!!!!
We like em' young...(Docs)...= more brain cells, more recently educated>>
Kisses....S and D,,,,,,,
On October 19, 2011...
Our Friends Are Like Angels
Our friends are like angels
who brighten our days
In all kinds of wonderful
Magical ways
Their thoughtfulness comes
As a gift from above
And we feel we’re surrounded
By warm, caring love
Like upside-down rainbows
Their smiles bring the sun
And they fill ho-hum moments
With laughter and fun
Friends are like angels
Without any wings
Blessing our lives
With the most precious things
Thinking of you Deb - wishing you a speedy recover - Lesa
On October 19, 2011...
HI Debbie,
Thinking of you as you head into surgery in the AM...... Wow.... hope it all goes well. You can let us know what we all have to look forward to when you are all said and done! Pretty amazing stuff and so glad they can fix your valves and make you almost new! Maybe some special dr's will be on staff that will work on the wrinkles while you are under! Just kidding. Hang in there and it will soon be over and you will be on the road to recovery. Best of luck and we will look forward to hearing the after surgery report. Hoping you do well before, during and after.... Your IPAD might not work as well for you the next few days, so have Josie fill in on the scrabble detail. You beat me again by just a few points tonite... stinker..... until the next time we can play... heads up for the big day. Sending lots of smiles and bandaids...
Love Cherrie
On October 19, 2011...
Hi Deb,
I know it's difficult to rest easy the night before surgery, but remember these things; you're in good hands, you're informed, you're ready and you have a bunch of people praying for you. You'll be back in Hartland scheduling rehab sessions in no time. I look forward to reading about your progress.
God Bless
Chris Hanson
Deb Ziegler Hi Chris,
It is day four, and things are going a little better. I know you went home on Tuesday, and ... Read more
Deb Ziegler Hi Chris,
It is day four, and things are going a little better. I know you went home on Tuesday, and I was wondering if you felt that was about the right time. I'm not sure I'm going to be ready. I'm not sure they will let me go either due to some electrical issues with my heart.
Thanks for keeping in touch....it really means a lot!
On October 19, 2011...
Hi Debbie - Faith gave me this website and I found your notes so interesting, and very moving. ( I am happy she did because I have such fond memories of you and your family and the many days and nights I spent at the house on 8th Ave and at the lake.) After reading your notes, I am in awe of what modern medicine can do. I am impressed with your dr and his credentials and it sounds like the Cleveland Clinic is as good as its reputation. You are in my thoughts and prayers and I wish you and your family the best for your full and fast recovery!
Carol Evans Zoerb
On October 19, 2011...
Hi Deb, Heard there might be flt delays in Cleveland due to big winds so I hope Josie got in okay and you are having as relaxing an evening as possible. I will be thinking of you all day tomorrow and I just know you are going to sail thru the surgery and be back in action before you know it. You''ll probably ski Snowmass top to bottom nonstop and leave the rest of us in the dust this winter. Hope you sleep some tonight Deb.
Love, Kitty
On October 19, 2011...
Hi Debbie:
I have been following your journal … good luck tomorrow !!!!
I know that things will go fantastic for you tomorrow. I had my mitral valve repaired by Dr. Sabik at the Cleveland Clinic on Sept 2nd and I am doing very well in my recovery. I feel that they are the “best of the best” and you are in great hands!!! I won’t say that it was pain free but that is what pain medicine is for !!!! Your care givers will help manage the pain … all you need to do is speak up and they will do all that they can do. If you have your I pod you can take it with you and listen to music until they take you into the actual surgery room.
I will be looking forward to hearing your updates as you progress :)
Darlene Nowak-Baker – Cleveland Clinic Friend
On October 19, 2011...
Wow,
What a difference a day can make. Sounds like a walk in the park...for your Dr. Having Dr. G feel this is a very comfortable surgery for him is such a confidence booster. That must be very re-assuring for you.
All the best being sent your way!
Chin up,
Libby
On October 19, 2011...
Hi Debbie - having never been through a situation like yours, this journal was very informative and thorough. Your confidence in Dr. Gillinov is apparent in your writing. It gives us confidence too! Pleased he rates this a three!
You are young, a strong individual with a positive attitude which will serve you well tomorrow and through the recovery process.
This is quite an adventure you are experencing, not the outdoor type you'd perfer, but a necessary one that will lead to a healthy future. You'll be sailing the Master's MC far into the future!
Thinking of you, wishing you love and support. We're hoping for that early morning surgery for you! Look forward to tomorrow's successful journal entry. Love, Peter and Joan
On October 19, 2011...
Hi Deb, Wow, that's great news. I love your odds for repair vs replacement. But either way it sounds like you are going to be in the best possible hands even if they are very young ones. Thanks so much for sharing your journal. I will be thinking of you and praying for the speediest recovery possible. Hope you get the early bird grand opening. Try to get some sleep tonight and best wishes from my mom too!
Love, Kitty
On October 19, 2011...
I love the good news that you are sharing in your updates...all our prayers have been answered so far. We'll pray extra hard tonight and tomorrow and will be looking forward to a positive report from your family.
Take care good friend, our thoughts are with you!
Hoopie
On October 19, 2011...
Glad to hear your appt went so well. What relief that you have such a nice, caring, and qualified dr! And if he considers this easy that is fabulous! Enjoy your time with your friend today.
Love
Heidi
Your doggies are great, no worries there!
On October 19, 2011...
Hi Deb~
Thanks for sharing your journey with us. Your loving spirit, insightful questions and thoughts, unwavering positive attitude, and sense of humor are felt throughout your entries. I feel like I'm right there with you!
Have a terrific trip down memory lane with Amy. I'm so happy (and envious) that you guys are getting together today. Hugs to her for me too!
Keep the focus tomorrow of your wonderful family and friends, Aspen, your dogs, sunrises and sunsets on the lake and at the mountains, Lake Geneva treks:-), quiet moments.
We all are sending our positive thoughts and prayers to you for the "grand opening" in your words. Hugs and blessings to you, my special friend, Deb.
Your are one amazing lady! Take care,
Cindy
Deb Ziegler Thanks so much Cindy! You are an awesome friend, and I truly appreciate you always being there for m ... Read more
Deb Ziegler Thanks so much Cindy! You are an awesome friend, and I truly appreciate you always being there for me.
I wish you were here to meet with Amy too.....it would be so fun for us all to get together again. Maybe we can put that one on the map for next year.
Hope you have a wonderful time at Kyle and Erin's wedding. Give them a huge hug for me.
On October 19, 2011...
Debbie,
Do go to the Rock & Roll Hall of fame, it will be a needed diversion for you today.
My thoughts are certainly with you, and everything goes as,planned, no complications, just a speedy
Recovery!
Love,
Faith
Deb Ziegler Thanks Faith. I am confident it will go fine!
On October 19, 2011...
Deb, your journal is as great as it is instructional. It shows what a difference preparation and thoroughness make. Keep up the good work and if you go to the R&R Hall of Fame, tell Jimbo that he can't go if he wears his Las Vegas Elvis jumpsuit and wig (with burns). Thoughts & Prayers Stephen
Deb Ziegler Jimbo will have to shave his mug if he is going to put on his Elvis suit. He said he isn't going to ... Read more
Deb Ziegler Jimbo will have to shave his mug if he is going to put on his Elvis suit. He said he isn't going to shave until I'm better. Better than what???? You keep thinkin' and prayin' Stevo.....we all need help!
On October 18, 2011...
Hi Debbie,
Hope you get some sleep tonight, your dogs are all fine and very entertaining to have. Gertie is getting all of the kids attention and loving it! Bernie is being a really good boy and keeping Bella busy. We are all thinking of you and praying for you. Best wishes for a great day tommorrow. Talk to you soon.
Love
Heidi and family
Deb Ziegler Thanks Heidi! I'm not counting on a good nights sleep, but I will be taking a big nap tomorrow, so I ... Read more
Deb Ziegler Thanks Heidi! I'm not counting on a good nights sleep, but I will be taking a big nap tomorrow, so I should be good:). Give Gertie and Bernie some pets for us.......we really miss them!
On October 18, 2011...
Hi Deb, Made it back from Tokyo safe and sound and very grateful for your journal updates. Thinking of you lots and just praying for the best possible outcome for whatever they decide to do after all the testing. Love, Kitty
P.S. Tiger has a new trick to show you next time you visit. He has learned how to open the frig and fetch a beer. It's sometimes a little foamy by the time I get it tho.
Deb Ziegler That is great that Tiger will get you a beer! Was it hard to teach him that? Hope he doesn't help h ... Read more
Deb Ziegler That is great that Tiger will get you a beer! Was it hard to teach him that? Hope he doesn't help himself to more than your beer!I don 't think I should try to teach Bernie that trick:)
Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.......it means a lot!
On October 18, 2011...
Hi Deb and Jim,
I wish there were some magic words I could say to take away all the things you must be feeling. After reading your journal entries, I see you're using some powerful words yourself...."I'm as ready as I can be"," I've accepted this" and maybe most importantly, " Thanks for the SUV, I didn't want to have a bumby ride home in the Prius".
Now that's a positive thought. We all wish you a successful operation and a sound recovery. And, of course, will keep you and JIm in our prayers. I'm buying the friskies.
Howard
Deb Ziegler Ha ha.....you're funny Howard. Glad to know you have the friskies under control for me. I will expec ... Read more
Deb Ziegler Ha ha.....you're funny Howard. Glad to know you have the friskies under control for me. I will expect one waiting for me when I get home!
Thanks the thoughts and prayers......I'll take all I can get! I truly appreciate it.
On October 17, 2011...
Hey Deb and Jim,
Glad your trip to Cleveland was good and boring! This is a quite a journey you are on and it will go well. A very loved friend of mine had similar surgery about 7 years ago and it was his second. His first was at age 8. He is a fan of Pig valves...he is now 41 and loves his valves and all they do for him.
You are a great person and a wonderful friend and I am rooting for you all the way! Keep your spirits up and think skiing.
God bless,
Libby
Deb Ziegler Thanks Lib! I really appreciate the kind thoughts and words. Hope you are doing well:)
On October 17, 2011...
Hi Deb,
You should be on your way now. I hope you have your pad with you so we can continue our words game. I might let you beat me one more time just to make you feel better. I didn't realize you had this journal til this morning. It's amazing. I'm glad you expressed what you've been going through for all of us who care so much about you. I'll be watching for updates. Love, Jayne
We are almost to Cleveland, but the ol' iPad isn't connecting very well. Especially the scrabble games. I'll try to keep playing in the hospital, but we'll see. I might have to let you win (since you're kicking my butt anyway).
Thanks for thinking of me.....I really appreciate it.
Deb
On October 17, 2011...
Hi Deb,
I'll be thinking of you this week. I know everything will go well. I'll follow your progress.
Tell Jim anything the two of you need I'm here for you.
God's peace,
Mike Samuels
Deb Ziegler Thanks so much Mike. It's really nice to hear from you!
Deb
On October 17, 2011...
Deb we're right here if you should need anything we love you and will be keeping you in our prayers.
Georgy
Deb Ziegler Thanks Georgy.........I really appreciate it!
Deb
On October 16, 2011...
Hi Deb,
Wishing you safe travels and best of luck this week. You'll be glad you chose Cleveland and Dr. Gillinov, I know I was. He and his staff were great. I felt much better and more relaxed after my pre-surgery meeting with him and I'm sure you will too. As my wife told you earlier, make sure to use your spirometer and walk as often and soon as you can. Doing those things helped my recovery tremendously.
Take care and I look forward to reading your updates.
Thanks so much for the nice note. I know I am going to the right place, and that is comforting. I can't wait to have this three weeks behind me like you! Hope you are feeling well. I will definitely follow your advice about the breathing
and walking.
Take Care,
Deb
On October 16, 2011...
Dear Debbie, thank you so much for sending me this E-mail...just want you to know that we are with you, Jimmy and your family on your journey to Clevland. The prayer warriors in my bible study will be praying for your surgeon, adjunct staff, and you as you undergo surgery. Don't forgert that God is the ultimate healer, and He is there with you...don't forget to pray and ask Him for peace...We love you so much. Yvonne, Scott and Mary Katherine
Deb Ziegler Thanks so much for the prayers, love and support Yvonne. It really means a lot to me.
We will try to ... Read more
Deb Ziegler Thanks so much for the prayers, love and support Yvonne. It really means a lot to me.
We will try to keep you all updated on this journal.
Love,
Debbie
On October 15, 2011...
Dear Deb,
I'm sorry I missed the chance to talk to you when Willie called you the other day. We have known that your surgery was creeping closer on the calendar and have been keeping you, your family, your doctors and medical staff in our prayers. Thank you for giving us the chance to follow your progress through your journal - we will be anxious to hear how you are doing and this way we don't have to bother your family. It sounds like you have prepared the best you can, and are ready to get on with it. I agree with the advice that Frieda shared with you regarding yoga and meditation. As a preparation for my surgery last year, the hospital gave me a relaxation CD with soothing music and instructions on how to "get myself in a comfortable place." They even let me take the CD into surgery so that I could practice my relaxation techniques. It was a great help. We know that you are in good hands and that you will be back on your feet soon. Please know that we are here if you need anything - we'd love to help.
Thanks so much for the prayers and kind words......it really means a lot to me.
I have been listening to some pre-surgery relaxation cds I received from the hospital. I'm hoping they will help on Thursday!
On October 15, 2011...
Debbie,
I just read your journal,it is awesome, you wrote from the heart! I now realize how frightening it must be for you! I wish you well in the next few days and especially on Thursday, my thoughts will be with you for a totally successful surgery and outcome!!
Love to you, Faith
Deb Ziegler Thanks Faith! I really appreciate your support. Hope I can do the same for you when your surgery ro ... Read more
Deb Ziegler Thanks Faith! I really appreciate your support. Hope I can do the same for you when your surgery rolls around!
On October 8, 2011...
Hi Deb,
Chris is doing great he has been walking and feeling really good. The skin sensitivity is still bothering him but I expect it will take some time for the muscles to heal. Chris cardiologist here is Dr.Saeian from ProHealth Care and Chris seems to like him. As far Doctors I work with I couldn't really pick one specially but if you go to Aurora Website and look up Cardiologist several of them are very good. I can email you certain names when I get a chance. As far as needing a nurse when you get home really depends on how your feeling, if you have the minimal invasive you should not need a nurse when you get back, just take it slow and use your pain medications stay on top of your pain so you can get up and move around with walking. Chris saw our family physican around 6th day home and everything went great. Everything will go great for you and we will keep you in our prayers for a fast and safe recover.
On October 7, 2011...
Hi Deb, I read in your story that you will be having your surgery on Oct. 20. I also will be having my surgery that day, also at Cleveland Clinic. Maybe we will be on the same floor and can go for a walk together. I too have found this to be a spirtual journey. I am spending some of my days, 13 and counting, doing yoga and meditating. This has helped me so much. I wish you the best of luck and hope that your surgeon and his staff are well rested and at the top of their game the date of your surgery.
And the Beat goes on and on,
Frieda
On October 6, 2011...
Hi Deb,
My husband (Chris Hanson) and I just got back from Cleveland Clinic with a Mitral Valve Repair with Dr. Gillinov on Sept. 22 and everthing went great! I truly thought the Doctors,Surgeons and Nurse Practioners were great, they really knew there stuff. If I can suggest a couple of things to help with your recovery, it is to make sure to use pep spirometer, cough and deep breath, and WALK, a lot as much as you can. It will help prevent complications and speed up the recovery process up. I not only say this as wife who saw it work, but I am also a Cardiac RN at St. Lukes. You will do great and keep up a positive attitude I understand how scary this can be for you and your loved ones, let them help you though they will be great for support for you.
Samantha Hanson
Deb Ziegler Thank you Samantha.....I really appreciate your advice, and I will take it to heart (literally)! I h ... Read more
Deb Ziegler Thank you Samantha.....I really appreciate your advice, and I will take it to heart (literally)! I hope Chris is doing well in his recovery. I have been following his journal from the begining and praying for a full and speedy recovery for him. I have a few questions about being at home......will I need a nurse to check on me a couple times a week, or will I be okay with just my husband? Do you need to see the doctor as soon as you get home or do you wait awhile? Who is Chris's cardiologist in Milwaukee? I've been to several, but I have no idea if they are good. Since you are a cardiac nurse maybe you know one you could recommend. Any help would be much appreciated.
Thanks,
Deb
So happy to hear that everything went great! Will be thinking of you ... rest up and safe travels home!!
Take Good Care!
Mary Pat