Brenda Hawkins posted a note for Denise that says:
Praying for continued peace, wisdom for Dr R, speedy recovery and that you'll feel like you're 30 again soon!!! Love you girl😍
Jan McCabe posted a note for Denise that says:
Praying for a speedy recovery. God will bring you thru it.
Maureen Breault Hope all goes well for those looking to upcoming surgeries, it's a journey not a race, have patience. ... Read more
Maureen Breault Hope all goes well for those looking to upcoming surgeries, it's a journey not a race, have patience. I cannot believe it's been 4 months post op for me; I'm back teaching fitness, riding my bike outside, swimming and in general, back to me(almost!). A few little aches and reminders of what I had done. Someone in the med field said going through this is a huge accomplishment; we all should be proud of ourselves.
Nicola Laker Definitely. It's been a rough ride but we get through it. We are strong! X
Helga posted a note for Denise that says:
Dear Denise, I have had difficulty finding where I can write on your journal. You know I'm computer challenged... The first time I think I forgot to hit "post". I pray these words of encouragement reach you. Like your friends, I too am so sorry you are having to endure another test. My fervent prayer is that it goes smoothly and the results are read accurately and that a God-wise decision is made. May God guide your doctor's hands so that surgery will be done skillfully and successfully. Most of all, may you trust in our Great Physician and that all fear be removed. Upholding you in prayer and love.
Denise Kirchner Thank you Helga for your words of encouragement and prayers. Yes you have to be sure and click on "p ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Thank you Helga for your words of encouragement and prayers. Yes you have to be sure and click on "post" not done in order for your comments to post. My test today showed that the surgery is definitely needed - will be posting in my journal with details soon. Love, Denise
Denise Kirchner Helga - I forgot to thank you for the lovely card it will be on my nightstand in the hospital! I am ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Helga - I forgot to thank you for the lovely card it will be on my nightstand in the hospital! I am not afraid - I feel God's peace and know God will be guiding Dr. Roselli's hands. My heart is in His hands! Love you!
On September 11, 2016...
Barbara Sudhoff Laurash posted a note for Denise that says:
Hey there Denise... Been praying for you, as have many others! Prayer is effective!
Miracles can even happen!
PS... Let Ric know we appreciate his posts about you. Keeping him in special prayer too.
Peace and Joy!
Barb
Marie Leighton God bless you on your journey, upcoming TEE and surgery. I pray that the clinicians are guided by Go ... Read more
Marie Leighton God bless you on your journey, upcoming TEE and surgery. I pray that the clinicians are guided by God and that you get exactly the care that you need.
Denise Kirchner Thanks Barb - Ric and I are definitely ready to get this over with after 3 days of pre tests. The wr ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Thanks Barb - Ric and I are definitely ready to get this over with after 3 days of pre tests. The wrist heart cath went well - arteries are pristine!
On September 11, 2016...
Brenda Hawkins posted a note for Denise that says:
Sorry to hear about your additional testing...pray it goes smoothly. Thank you for keeping us updated. Will keep praying!
On September 10, 2016...
Mary Jo Kepple posted a note for Denise that says:
Really glad to hear it went well!! Thanks for the update Ric!
Denise Kirchner Hi Mary Jo - this has been a whirlwind week - am so ready to get this over with. Dr. Roselli is awes ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Hi Mary Jo - this has been a whirlwind week - am so ready to get this over with. Dr. Roselli is awesome - so down to earth and reassuring - with him doing the surgery and God guiding his hands I feel really good about this. I am ready. Hope all is well with you tell everyone at work that I said hi!
On September 9, 2016...
Holly Pomeroy posted a note for Denise that says:
Hi Denise! I'm so sorry you are traveling this road again. My heart ached when I read that you were having surgery again. Having said that, I know that you are in good hands and that you will do great through this! You've done it once, and you know what to expect, that is half the struggle!! My thoughts and prayers are with you. I tried posting several days ago but for some reason it didn't go through. This site has changed quite a bit in the last two years. I will be watching for updates!! You've got this!! Holly Pomeroy
Denise Kirchner Thank you Holly - it is good to hear from you. I hope all is well with you.
On September 9, 2016...
Connie T posted a note for Denise that says:
Hi Denise (& Ric). I was soooo hoping they would do the cath thru your wrist!! Yea... I was so worried because of your previous experience :-( sad news about the hair delimma tho... Wish you knew a good hairdresser ;-) but hey no worries.... Ric probably has some round brush skills he is just dying to try out!!! HeHe. Seriously HS....glad this part of "your climb" is in the rearview mirror! Take care. ...and know we continue to pray! Love your favorite HS...Connie T & Dan
Denise Kirchner Hey Connie & Dan: I was so relieved they were able to use my wrist too! It would be scary turning R ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Hey Connie & Dan: I was so relieved they were able to use my wrist too! It would be scary turning Ric loose on my hair with a round brush - lol! My sister who we are staying with up here is a retired hair dresser so no worries! Love you HS!
On September 9, 2016...
Ramonam posted a note for Denise that says:
So thankful that your heart cath went well. I didn't know it could be done thru the wrist. Continued prayers for you going up!
Jane Buttram I had mine 2 days ago, also through the wrist. He said my arteries are "pristine"
Nancy Lewis Mine was through the wrist too. Glad everyone's went well
Nicola Laker Mine was also done through my wrist. X
On September 9, 2016...
Helga posted a note for Denise that says:
So thankful your heart cath went well and they were able to do it through your arm. Ric says you won't be able to lift your arm for a few days. I have every confidence that he can do your hair!!!! Rest & enjoy your weekend. You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Helga
Denise Kirchner Thank you Helga! My sister who we are staying with this weekend is a retired hairdresser so I won't ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Thank you Helga! My sister who we are staying with this weekend is a retired hairdresser so I won't be at the mercy of Ric's styling skills or lack thereof! Lol! 😜
On September 8, 2016...
Mary Jo Kepple posted a note for Denise that says:
So glad to hear testing went well today, for the most part anyway. Hope it continues tomorrow! Take care!
Denise Kirchner Thanks Mary Jo! The heart cath went well today - they were able to go in through my wrist. Take car ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Thanks Mary Jo! The heart cath went well today - they were able to go in through my wrist. Take care.
On September 8, 2016...
Connie T posted a note for Denise that says:
Hey there heart sister!! Great to hear your first day went well with first round of testing. Hard to believe we are "talking" on HVJ again....but so glad we can keep tabs on your progress. Won't be long now till you are on the other side of the mountain :-) We continue to pray for you and your family as you start your climb! Be strong and remember.... If HE leads you to it...HE will lead you through it". !!! Love you HS....(your favorite ;-) HS ..Connie T
Fran Petkus posted a note for Denise that says:
Hi Denise,
Contacted George and Lillian and they have their 'Prayer Worriers' covering you.
Also, a friend of mine added you to her list. Continue to do as well as can be.
Fran
Craig Gay posted a note for Denise that says:
Denise, I just signed on after a busy few days out of town. You and Craig have made the board!!! For some reason, that gave ME butterflies. We pray that you have a peaceful week in preparation of your surgery. Hugs from Craig and Yvonne
Denise Kirchner Hi Yyvonne and Craig: we have also had a busy couple of days making the rounds to see our 5 grandchi ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Hi Yyvonne and Craig: we have also had a busy couple of days making the rounds to see our 5 grandchildren for goodbye hugs before leaving for Cleveland on Wednesday for 2 days of pre- testing and then meeting with Dr. Roselli on Monday the 12th. I got goosebumps seeing Craig and me on the boards. I pray we both have successful surgeries. Hugs back to you from Denise and Ric. ❤️
On September 1, 2016...
Bridget Sawmiller posted a note for Denise that says:
Denise, prayers for a successful surgery and speedy recovery. I had my OHS 4 weeks ago today, Thursday August 4th at the Cleveland Clinic. It is such a great facility. I look forward to reading your updates post op!!
Denise Kirchner Bridgette: Thanks so much for your kind words and prayers. Yes CC is great - I had my first repair ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Bridgette: Thanks so much for your kind words and prayers. Yes CC is great - I had my first repair there in 2012. I am glad to hear you are doing well in your recovery. I can't wait to be on the other side of this and on the road to recovery. Take care!
Steven Dean Denise, as you know I also had my first OHS around the same time as you. Recovery from the second has ... Read more
Steven Dean Denise, as you know I also had my first OHS around the same time as you. Recovery from the second has been no worse (and maybe even a little easier after the first few days) than the first. This is despite the incision being significantly larger this time.
Denise Kirchner Steven, I have heard that same comment from other 2nd time around patients - that the recovery was a ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Steven, I have heard that same comment from other 2nd time around patients - that the recovery was a bit easier the second time. I hope your recovery continues to go well. Take care.
On August 30, 2016...
Ramona Maassenen posted a note for Denise that says:
I know you will do great! Con'tprayers! Micah is adorable. Love his smile love to you!
Pat posted a note for Denise that says:
To my old roomie, You are one of the strongest people I know. Sorry you have to go through this again. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you! Your grandson is adorable!! Love ya, pat
Denise Kirchner Thanks Pat! I appreciate the prayers so much!
On August 20, 2016...
Debbie Wilhelm Smalley posted a note for Denise that says:
You've got this sister! Keeping close in thought and prayer as your OHS gets closer and closer. Love you.
Holly P posted a note for Denise that says:
Hi Denise! I'm sorry I missed your post in June, I don't get on here as much anymore and somehow missed it. Glad to hear that things are going well for you, even with a moderate leak..... Way to stay positive and determined, take it a year or a month at a time. Enjoy the rest of your summer!
On June 12, 2013...
Nancy B posted a note for Denise that says:
Hi Denise!
so glad to hear your one year check up was a good one. It sounds like you are really on the right track now. I'm so happy for you.
Happy 60th Birthday! my husband just hit the same milestone on 4/29.
Denise Kirchner Hi Nancy, it is good to hear from you - and yes I feel much better after the good results on my 1 yea ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Hi Nancy, it is good to hear from you - and yes I feel much better after the good results on my 1 year echo. It sounds like all is well with you - stay in touch! Denise
On May 20, 2013...
Hey Denise! Just happened to glance online and saw that you had a post a week ago. For some reason I never saw your response to my note below. Very sorry I missed that; something up with my email is my guess.
I did make it to the race Sunday and although I didn't meet my goal time, I ran the whole way, which was the most important thing to me. I finally hobbled across in just under 2 hrs 18 minutes. Monday I stopped at Cleveland Clinic for an echo and the 1-yr research checkup. Overall they say everything is looking fine, but I will need to get with a cardiologist to find out about all the details.
Sorry to hear you are still feeling tired from time to time. Hoping that your results come back good on June 6th nd there is no change with the leakage.
I will try to post an update in the next day or two, although I am so backed up at work I probably won't get to it until the holiday weekend.
Take care and will be in touch! -Tom
Denise Kirchner Hi Tom,
It was good to hear from you. That is great that you made it to Cleveland and finished the r ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Hi Tom,
It was good to hear from you. That is great that you made it to Cleveland and finished the race. I wish Connie T and I could have made it up there to meet you. May was a really busy month for me with something going on almost every weekend. My family managed to surprise me yesterday with a 60th birthday party - I had no clue! I had a great time with some of my close friends, sisters and our 4 children, spouses and grandchildren - definitely a birthday to remember! It's funny, I don't feel 60, but then again as I have always said age is only a number - lol!
It sounds like you had a good check up at Cleveland Clinic - let me know how your follow- up goes with your cardiologist. Also be sure to let me know when your new bundle of joy arrives.
I will be posting again after my appointment w/ the cardiologist on June 6th.
Take care, Denise
On May 13, 2013...
Happy Mother's Day Denise! I was glad to see that you had posted something, it's that time of the year, isn't it? Each of us are unique and the way our body handles things is different for all of us. My thoughts continue to be with you and pray for good news for you. I also know that you will handle anything that is thrown your way with God's help! Keep thinking positive thoughts!
Holly P
Thanks for thinking of me. Yes it is that time of year for all of us that went through surgery last year at this time. It is hard to believe a year has passed! I appreciate your positive thoughts and prayers and will be posting after my appointment with the cardiologist on June 6th. Take care and God bless! Denise
On May 13, 2013...
Hey Girlfriend!
Glad to see your post!. I knew your year was the 29th....so I have been checking the journals & wondering if you would post a little early.
My cardiologist appt is also on the 6th!, however, he told me he would not order my echo till July or August when I have officially met my "year".
I know you are anxious for the results of the echo. I have been thinking & praying for you that those little energizer bunny legs of yours will help bring great results....then you can truly relax & enjoy your vacation in sunny Florida! We need to meet for dinner soon......I miss laughing with you!! :)
Love ya,
Connie T
So good to hear from you. I hope you had a relaxing time in San Diego with no trips to the ER! It has been too long since we have gotten together - need to set something up before we leave for Florida on June 19th. I will give you a call later this week. Thanks for your prayers and support - we are truely sisters of the heart! Talk to you soon, Love you, Denise
On May 12, 2013...
Hi Denise-
Glad to see your post. I've been behind in catching up on here, but it doesn't mine I don't think about it. I am sorry you are not feeling 100% and will await some positive news from your echo. I have to admit when I exercise on a regular basis I feel much better. If I do not exercise I do feel I tire easy. I'm trying to do the right things and am glad to say that a year later here we both are. Happy Mother's Day. Karen Campo
Thanks for your message. I too have been diligent with my eating habits, avoiding caffine and exercising daily. I had my echo on Friday and am hoping for good results. I will post something after my appointment on June 6th. Take care and a belated Happy Mothers day to you too! Denise K
On May 11, 2013...
Hi Denise,
Nice to see a note from you. I'm not on the site too often these days, but as my one year anniversary approaches I've been trying to catch up on those that were on the journey around the same time frame.
Best of luck with the upcoming echo. Hope you find that all is well.
Thanks for thinking of me. I hope all is well with you. You should be coming up on 1 year soon as well. I will definitely be posting something after my cardiology appointment on June 6th. Take care, Denise
On March 24, 2013...
Hi Denise,
Just wanted to let you know I booked my ticket for Cleveland and I'll be running the half marathon on May 19h. The most I have ever run at one time is 7 miles so I have a lot of work to do! Hope you are feeling well and will keep in touch!
Glad to hear that you are going to be able to make it to Cleveland to run in the marathon. What time does the marathon start? Let me know. I will be posting something soon. Ric and I have started an AdvoCare distributorship and are busy with meetings in the evenings, etc. You may have heard of it as it is really popular in Texas. If you get a chance take a look at our website at www.kirchneradvocare.com. Ric is doing the 24 day challenge as he needs to lose some weight - mine is where is should be so I am his cheerleader. Lots of great supplements etc for active people. Take care. Denise
On January 12, 2013...
Lisinopril is what my cardiologist put me on before my surgery. You do have to be careful about bottoming out, and I think you should increase it slowly if he wants to up the dose. Some people have trouble with a nagging cough or kidney problems, be aware of that and report any difficulty! How do you take your BP? Do you have an automatic wrist monitor or do it manually on your upper arm, or with an automatic machine somewhere other than at home? All three of those factors can make a difference in the readings you are getting. morning and evening readings can differ too. The most accurate is with a stethoscope and a manual machine, but that's probably not available for you. Just keep track of your symptoms, and especially if you get light headed or dizzy alot during the day.
I'm doing good! Guess I better update my journal, it's certainly been a while!
Holly
Denise Kirchner Thanks Holly! So far I have not experienced a cough, just minor dizziness when I get up in the morni ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Thanks Holly! So far I have not experienced a cough, just minor dizziness when I get up in the morning. Is it better to take it at night or in the morning? I take mine at 7:00 p. m.
Have you been using the Maderma on your incision site? It worked really well for me.
I look forward to an update from you soon. Take care!
On January 11, 2013...
Happy New Year Denise! Praying that 2013 is better for all of us here on HVJ!! What ace inhibitor did they put you on? I'm glad you were able to get off the Metoprolol and are feeling somewhat better. Good for you for staying active and walking! I'm trying to keep a regular schedule of exercise but it is so much harder than it should be, I usually am lucky to get in 3 days a week. My goal for 2013 is to bump that up!
Yes, enjoy those grandchildren, they are so precious. I enjoy seeing mine and spending time with them, it always lifts my spirits to get those hugs and kisses!!!
Continuing to pray for you and will be watching for your updates. Stay strong! Everything happens for a reason!!
Holly P
I always enjoy hearing from you. I hope all is well with you.
The ace inhibitor I am taking is Lisinopril 5 mg. My cardiologist wants to see my blood pressure between 90 & 100 systolic and 60 - 70 diastolic - better for my leaky valve. It seems my readings are all over the place, higher on days that I work and lower on the weekends when I more relaxed - hard to figure out what the average reading is. I think my dosage may need to be increased to 7.5mg, maybe up to 10. I prefer to do it gradually so I don't bottom out. His nurse will call me Tuesday to let's know his recommendation. As a nurse do you have any words of wisdom?
Thanks.
On January 10, 2013...
Hi Denise,
So glad to hear you're doing well. It's been a long road for you, but it sounds like you're finally on the right track.
My job keeps me behind a desk most of the day too. I used to get out for a walk at lunch everyday, but my walking buddy took another job. I haven't got back into the habit of getting outside, instead I read at my desk while I eat....not a good habit.
It is good to hear from you. I hope all is well with you!
Yes, I think I am on the right track with the new medication - looking forward to better things in 2013. Between my OHS and two of my sisters being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 - I am definitely ready for a good year in 2013.
Take care,
Denise K
On December 17, 2012...
Hey Denise!
It was good to see your 6 month post!
I wish I had an answer to your med question, but I do not. I need to ask my daughter, I'm sure she would have an answer.
You have certainly been through a lot on your journey....but through it all you have kept a very positive attitude. You may not have a perfect repair...but you have the determination to do all that you can do to keep it as healthy as you can. Your faith, family, and attitude is key to moving forward. So you still win!!! :)
It seems like yesterday you were walking into my hospital room and I had "patient envy" that you were walking without assistance & no tubes attached! LOL... I am so glad you reached out to me that day... It has been one of the most rewarding things about my journey! :)
Dan & I wish you & Ric a very Merry Christmas..and a wonderful New Year, filled with many blessings!
After the holidays, we need to meet for dinner again...( I have been sick with strep throat, then got a nasty virus on top of it...woe is me)...So will wait until I am good and healthy!
Take Care...and Congrats on reaching your 6 months with those great little energizer bunny legs...LOL (I can see the smoke from your treadmill all the way in Anna) hehe
Connie T
I am so sorry I never got back with you - that was the week I started with the weird symtoms - always something with me right!
I too am so glad we have become friends outside of the journal and I forgive you for your "patien envy" - LOL!
In spite of the the symptoms I was having my little energizer bunny legs just kept right on going - I was determined not to let it upset my daily routine. My cardiologist said I am probably in better shape than him because he has fallen off the exercise wagon - lol!
Ric and I hope that you and Dan have a blessed Christmas and only good things in the new year!
I hope you feel better soon. We will get together after the first of the year for sure - I miss you girl!
Take care, Denise
On December 16, 2012...
Hi Denise,
I had the same surgery as you at CCF about 6months earlier than you, and while my valve only leaks minimally now, I still have ALOT of palpitations. I also get quite short of breath going up and down stairs.....not sure why. Maybe that happens to everyone, and I am just more aware of it now? Don't know. I am on a low dose beta blocker (bisoporol) for the palpitations, and while it helps with the palpitations, they certainly aren't gone and I feel every one of them. I am in Colorado this week and the altitude (9000 ft) is making them ten times worse. I am really hoping to find something that will make them go away as we hope to move here someday. Right now, I just want to go home because I feel so awful. Would you please let me know if you feel any better on the ace inhibitor? I would really appreciate it!
Like you, I am very grateful for my many blessings and my three grand daughters. While my surgery didn't give me perfect results, I am still so thankful to be here enjoying a blessed life! I hope your hilodays are filled with joy and happiness, and your valve remains stable for many years to come.
God Bless,
Deb Ziegler
I am sorry to hear that the altitude in Colorado is making you feel so badly. i wil keep you in my prayers.
I am finally totally weaned off the beta blocker and my doctor is supposted to call me tomorrow to see how I am doing. I did notice a little elevation in my blood pressue, so I am sure he will be starting me on a low dose of the ace inhibitor once I talk to him. I wil let you know how that goes. I am so sensative to meds that it is always scary starting something new.
Take care and I hope you get back "down to earth" - lol - and feel better soon!
Denise K
On November 5, 2012...
Hi Denise!
Glad to hear you're doing well. I'm sorry to hear you're still leaky, but it sounds like you are doing everything you can to keep yourself healthy. after all, that's all we can do and the rest is out of our control.
I still read the blog daily and will look forward to your updates.
Nothing new with me. I have an appt with my cardiologist in December for a routine check up. I'm still going to cardiac rehab only because I haven't completed all of my authorized visits. I think I only have a couple left, then it's up to me to keep exercising....winter is hard as I tend to hibernate in the cold, short days.
Take care!
Nancy B
On October 28, 2012...
Hi Denise, your echo stress test is coming up! I wanted you to know I'm thinking of you. What a blessing to be able to spend some time with your sisters, especially after the year you have all had. Family is truly a gift from God, and we shouldn't take them for granted. I'm glad to hear you are doing so well, and the doctor couldn't hear the murmur. Praying for a miracle for you!!! Let us know how it goes, and have a great week!
Holly P
Yes, I had the test on Friday and have posted the outcome on my journal for all to read. Thanks so much for thinking of me and for your prayers. So i don't repeat myself you can read about it on my most recent post. I hope all is going well with your - have a great week!
Denise K
On October 17, 2012...
Hi Denise-
I am so glad to hear that you are doing well. I have been behind in checking this site and also blogging an update about myself. So happy you got together with your sisters and sounds like great cause for a celebration. Hope to hear of your continued good health. I stopped cardiac rehab 2 wks ago and really miss the nurses and the friends I met. Take care.
Karen Campo
On October 17, 2012...
Hi Denise,
Glad your MRI came back normal.
I can't for the life of me figure out what brings on my occular migraines. I had 3 in two days the weeks before last and none since. I've been having them for years and still can't figure it out. It's good to know there isn't some scary underlying cause though.
Nancy B
On September 27, 2012...
Hi Denise...
It's great you are enjoying your rehab! You look so darn great so it is certainly agreeing with you!
Hey, next weekend there is a 5K at the Minster Octoberfest on Sunday...you wanna try out your new energizer bunny legs and run it with me?!?....okay...stop laughing!!!!...
Keep up the good work....we are praying for good results in November!! (you need to stalk the journals for someone to visit!) haha..
Take care, talk to you soon....sorry about the other night.....my phone must have dropped the call! :(
Connie T
Thanks for the compliment - you too will be enjoying your time at rehab once you have a couple of more weeks under your belt!
Yeah sure, I am just raring to go and try out my legs in a 5K run - NOT! We will leave the 5K's to the young 'uns.
II will keep up the good work - have to keep up my "energizer bunny" image don't ya know - lol!
Thanks for the prayers, I am hopeful that things have improved based on how I am feeling.
Not a problem on the dropped call - I just thought maybe your battery in your cell phone died. We will chat again soon. I want to know all about the latest farm reports you're getting at rehab - that is important gotta know stuff - lol!
Take care! Denise
On September 27, 2012...
Hi Denise,
So glad to hear you're feeling well and you're enjoying rehab. How often do you go? I wish I could have worked part time while I attended. You're lucky. :)
will be looking forward to see your echo results in November.
Take care 'till then
Nancy B
Denise Kirchner Hi Nancy - I go 3 times per week (M,W & F) for 1 hour. They have an excellent program at Miami Valle ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Hi Nancy - I go 3 times per week (M,W & F) for 1 hour. They have an excellent program at Miami Valley Hospital here in Dayton. On Fridays I go for 2 hours - 1 hour of exercise and then 1 hour in the lecture hall for an educational class on all the aspects of cardiac care after surgery focusing on one each topic each week ranging from nutrition, exercise, emotions, etc. And yes I am blessed to be able to work part time. I worked full time the first 2 weeks and it was too much - I was exhausted so my cardiologist put me on a reduced work schedule until I finish rehab. I am glad to hear all is well with you. Take care:-) Denise
On September 26, 2012...
Hi Denise, I was glad to see an update for you.. I'm glad you are still enjoying cardiac rehab, I wish mine would have lasted longer than it did. It's nice having that routine in your life isn't it? Are you still on any medication or has it all been stopped? Are you still experiencing any pain or numbness on your right side? Every once in a while I'll still get an ocular migraine. It's a reminder of what my body has been through!! I'll be watching for your update in November too, after your echo. I'm sure you're worried about it, how could you not be? Still praying for you and for healing!!!
Holly P
Denise Kirchner Hi Holly - Yes, it is nice to have the routine - I have even started doing the tread mill at home on ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Hi Holly - Yes, it is nice to have the routine - I have even started doing the tread mill at home on the days I do not have rehab - feels good to be active again after all the set backs! I am still on Torprol 12 1/2 mg in the a.m. and 12 1/2 mg p.m. My cardiologist wants me to stay on it to keep my heart rate and blood pressure low because of the post op regurg - ugh! He said it is better for my valve - so a necessary evil I guess - lol! I have no pain, still some numbness in my right breast, but it getss better all the time. I also have some numbness in my groin and inner thigh from the seroma surgery, but that seems to be getting better as time goes on. All in all I can't complain. I do still get an occasional ocular migrane, but I had those for years before my surgery so I was used to them.
I am anxious about the echo stress test in November but hoping and praying for some improvement in the leak. Thanks so much for your thoughts and prayers! Denise K"
On August 31, 2012...
Hey Denise..
Look at you..."gettin all well-n-stuff" :)
I bet it feels great to finally be going in the right direction with your recovery! Prayers were answered....now go out there and beat Ric's record on that bike....haha
Talk to you soon,
Connie T
On August 29, 2012...
Such great news Denise. Keep up the great progress at cardiac rehab!
As for me I still have a tiny amount of leakage at the seroma incision, but my overall recovery is as good as I had hoped. Ran 2.6 miles today in 30 minutes on the treadmill. My goal of a 5k by rehab discharge (9/14) is in sight!
Wow! 2.6 miles in 30 minutes - that is impressive. It sounds like you will meet your goal of the 5k by the time you finish up rehab.
Praying that tiny amount of leakage you have going on at the seroma incision heals up soon!
Take care!
Denise K
On August 28, 2012...
Hi Denise, So happy to hear things are starting to look up for you. You sure have been thru a lot. Now on to a normal life and some good rehab. Keep up the good work.
Mooving on up
Linda H
Denise Kirchner Thanks Linda - am looking forward to building my stamina and improving my energy level - still tire e ... Read more
Denise Kirchner Thanks Linda - am looking forward to building my stamina and improving my energy level - still tire easily, but know that will get better the further into rehab I get. Take care! Denise
On August 27, 2012...
Good news, have fun in rehab.
Trent V
Denise Kirchner Thanks Trent - hope all is still going well for you too! Take care. Denise K
On August 27, 2012...
Hi Denise, great job on the cardiac rehab!!! I'm so glad that you finally get to participate in it, and that your seroma / hematoma is healing well. What an emotional rollercoaster!! Good luck with going back to work on the 29th, another milestone reached!! It does sound like you are ready to cut out that medicine, we don't want that blood pressure to get too low!!
Take care and keep enjoying those grandchildren!!
Holly P
On August 19, 2012...
Hi Denise-
Just returning from our 18th annual beach vacation (so blessed to have made this one:) and what great news to check up on you and find you are doing well. Yeah!
On to cardiac rehab which you are sure to enjoy. It's nice that you were able to actually meet some of our fellow bloggers.
So glad to hear you were able to make your annual beach vacation! We had our 15th annual beach vacation with the family in June, just 4 weeks after my surgery. Wait until you start adding grandchildren to the fun down the road - it is sooo much fun!
I will probably post something tomorrow or Tuesday after my first day of rehab tomorrow. I am still a little sore from the seroma surgery (3 weeks yesterday) so I am sure they will start me out easy.
Take care, Denise
On August 16, 2012...
Praise God indeed! Great news Denise, I'm glad you were able to get some positive answers and won't have to go through an re-op. What an emotional week for you! Hope your seroma is healing well and you are able to start rehab now. You have to keep up with those grandchildren!!! Stay strong!
Holly P
Thanks for your encouragement. You are right I have to build up my muscles to keep up with the grandchildren. My 5 year old grandson Bryson asked me why my arms were all squishy and I told him it was becasue I needed to build up my muscels after being in the hospital, then his 3 year old brother Dominic flexed his biceps and said I needed to get big muscles like his - so darn cute - and honest - gotta love 'em!
I hope all is going well for you. I start cardiac rehab on Monday - 3 times a week for 10 weeks. I return to work full time on August 29th. It will be nice to get into a daily routine again after all the inactivity since the seroma surgery.