Hi, Fran:
I feel that I have a new friend in you. Thanks for reading my journal. Two weeks post-op today and I'm feeling wonderful--still need some more strength but no pain!
I have a couple of suggestions for you that made my life more comfortable in the hospital. A neck pillow (like the ones used on airplanes) was my best friend and kept my head in alignment. Also a sleep mask and earplugs were helpful.I have a timex watch with a luminous dial that helped me
On March 2, 2010...
Hi Fran,
I understand the pressure that you must be feeling as time grows closer to your surgery date. I think that is the hardest part...being in the "waiting room!" As far as breathing exercises, I never directly did any prior to surgery, however, I did pick up the pace and distance with my walking. Inadvertantly, I think this did help b/c after surgery I was gradually able to walk as far as before. Anyway, keep us posted and please know that you will be in my prayers.
Blessings...Gail W
On March 1, 2010...
Hi Fran, the situation you are in is quite similar to my mom's, Beverly Simmons. We were aiming toward a less invasive surgery, but the complications of AFib dictated the more traditional course. It sounds like you are doing some great prep work. If I could throw my 2 cents in. We got mom an ipod Nano- a simple ipod with more room than you could ever imagine, and filled it with some of her favorite cd's and podcasts (stories-downloaded from itunes-available through either PC or Mac)- this allowed her to option of being carried away through song or story, which, given the stark, bewildering surroundings of a hospital room is a great distraction. Whenever she would get figgety, I would find her a nice story, and let her drift away. Personally, I use this tool at the dentist too!
It sounds as though you have a very good surgeon and team of support to follow. This blog site is a great tool as well, and has kept the phone calls at bay while trying to prepare and heal. I wish you all the best- I know you will do well. I'll be following. Lisa
On February 27, 2010...
I see that you continue to search for ways to be better prepared. I'm sure you will be the best patient they have ever had. Hank
On February 27, 2010...
HI Fran, best of luck for your surgery on 18 March, how are your preparations going?
Thalia Faunt, Ballarat, Australia
On February 26, 2010...
Hi Fran,
Your surgery date is coming up and it sounds like you're very well prepared. You are so fortunate to have Dr. Gillinov as your surgeon, one of the best of the very best. And what a trip it will be, with Capt. Bill there at the same time! I don’t have any breathing exercises to recommend, except for practicing on a spirometer, if there’s one handy. In the hospital after my surgery they were always telling me to use it and I kept forgetting whether to inhale or exhale into the device. I must have been suffering from “pump head” syndrome at the time, because it couldn’t have been all that complicated.
Thanks for checking in with me, I really appreciate your ongoing concern and interest. I've slacked off recently with my journal updates--I guess that means my recovery has taken a turn in the direction of boring, and that's a good thing! Just got back from a pleasant evening out, having dinner with my husband and granddaughter. I remarked to them while we were out that this was the first time since my surgery that I really felt like a normal person going out for an evening, enjoying a glass of wine or two, etc. I didn't feel like an invalid who had to go home early, so I think I've turned a corner in my recovery process. It has been 6 wks since my surgery and I think I'm finally starting to get my energy back.
You asked about Coumadin and how long I have to take it. Because I have a mechanical valve, I'll need to take blood thinners forever. My doctor said that mechanical mitral valves have a strong tendency to form blood clots, so I need to keep a higher INR level than I would need for an aortic valve replacement. I've resigned myself to being on blood thinners for the rest of my life, but that's OK--it sure beats heart failure!
This winter has been way too long (Oh how I envy you Floridians!), but spring is around the corner, and it feels good to be on the mend.
Thanks for staying in touch, Fran, and I will too.
Susan Murphy
On February 26, 2010...
Hi Yet Again Fran
You are on my mind tonight. I'm thinking about you being comfortable during your recovery and thought I should mention about bringing something with you to keep you warm at night when you are in the colder climate.
My surgery was in October and while it wasn't near as cold as now, I felt the hospital temperature at night to feel quite cool when I was in bed. I had Pete bring me in a sweater and I put it on over my pj top when he left plus I was even wearing socks all night long. After the surgery you naturally aren't all that mobile so I had Pete get me set for the night adding an extra blanket on my bed too. My bed was next to the window and maybe that had something to do with it but just thought I'd mention it.
Also, I found little earphones that slipped over my ears so they wouldn't fall off. I have a hard time keeping those little earbuds in so I looked around and managed to find something that actually hooked over my ears and they were only about $20. They were particularly great when I was laying down and turned my head. I didn't have to keep finding them and putting them back in.
Something else I packed were those little individual packets of Crystal Light (Lite). I thought the flavoured water wasn't as bad to swallow as warm natural water after it had been left sitting. It just helped me get my water in.
I think you said your daughters were going to be with you at the hospital which would be great. It's going to be long hours for Peter and I know you would be worrying how your being hositalized affects him.
Just thinking about you. You have to be sure you are sleeping well as possible and if you aren't sleeping fully at night, do get a nap in during the day. You don't want to wear down. Cheryl, Ontario
On February 26, 2010...
Hi Fran
I just got in and read your messages first and then saw the posting from Georgie. I got a little worried but then there is the time change and Penny said there is no WiFi at the hosital. I'm so pleased to know they were able to repair both valves. That is just so wonderful. (My tricuspid got left with mild to moderate leakage. The darn thing better hold the rest of my gold OLD natural life!) It is such a relief for everyone when the surgery is over that you can just feel for them as we will be for you and Bill mid March and Thalia on Tuesday. Gee these surgeons are brilliant.
Unlike Amy my chest tubes were removed about day 3 and yet my pacemaker beeped on until day 5. Amy and a few others had their ventilators in longer as well. Mine was in all day but they kept me under until it was taken out. However the doctors choose to look after you, I will be praying it is gentle and kind as possible.
It's official - I really think I am feeling much better being on that Beta Blocker. I've walked in the Mall today and in and out of the show this evening and I absolutely feel a difference. You were right. You have a nice evening. Cheryl, Ontario
On February 26, 2010...
Hi Fran. I saw your question about the chest tubes. Those usually come out on the first or second post-op day. Because I had to be put on a pacemaker, they would not remove mine until after the pacing wires were removed. This was so they could tell if removing the pacing wires caused internal bleeding. I'm betting yours will come out quickly. Once those puppies are removed, everything gets so much easier.
As for preparing your lungs, if you don't already walk or do some other form of cardio, try to get some in before the surgery. My surgeon's office told me this would be very beneficial during the healing process. I worked out up until the day before surgery.
The only other thing I'd say is that using the spirometer or deep breathing is very important after surgery. I went in with the attitude that it would be my favorite thing to do, and I performed the exercises every one to two hours when not sleeping. I think it has helped my recovery tremendously.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Amy and Matthew
Raleigh, NC
On February 26, 2010...
Hi Fran - thank you so much for your prayers today for my mum (Penny), your faithfulness is inspiring. God's richest blessings on your life! Georgie
On February 26, 2010...
Hi Again Fran
That must have been reassuring to hear from Gay that Boles had his surgery at the Cleveland as well. Good reviews for that hospital. where did you do your nursing? Have a good day.
Cheryl
On February 26, 2010...
Fran, my father did have a dental check up at the Cleveland Clinic. He had his aortic valve replacement and double bypass on Jan. 28th. He is now home after 2 weeks in acute rehab and doing quite well.
We were very pleased with the Cleveland Clinic's surgical team.
Gay (Boles Burke's daughter)
On February 26, 2010...
Hi Fran
Always after a surgery I was instructed to just do deep breathing to get the junk out of my lungs. Heart surgery was the first I was introduced to the spirometer. Maybe Peter could help. How about holding your breath and some deep passionate kissing? Oooomygawd, did I just say that?
Couldn't resist that - I was tense thinking about Penny!
Okay - back to nursing. The Beta Blocker makes your pulse much slower so is that a problem? My resting pulse is down to 53 and my exercise pulse is down to 77-80 from 104-8. Therefore I'm a little leary to increase to the full pill just yet. BUT....I think I'm feeling better. I take my mom out on Fridays so I'm at the mall and that will be my test. It snowed here finally this week.
I can't help but believe any exercise you do before surgery should be beneficial. I could well imagine Kathy has great healthy lungs and shouldn't have much problem getting the junk out. You take care Fran.
Cheryl
On February 26, 2010...
Hey Fran,
I still would like your input on the Coumadin. I want to learn as much as possible.
Patrick in STL
On February 26, 2010...
Hi Fran:
We will be reading your Journal every day and wishing you the very best. We know things will go well because of your faith, family and friends support and your very positive attitude. By the way, who is that guy standing next to you in the picture, the old man?? Can you feel our love coming through? Ted and Jean
On February 26, 2010...
I'm right there with you Fran. Look out here comes March! I have making ballon art to help my lungs. Sea you soon.
happy boating
captn Bill
On February 25, 2010...
Hi Fran,
I remember the impending feeling as the calendar marched on. I learned on Dec. 21 that my surgery was scheduled for Jan. 28, so that was about 5 weeks. It seems to me you've had longer to mill on and stew on this. Really, I know God will do for you what He did for us--He gave us an overwhelming sense of His presence and peace through the whole ordeal. I was surprised myself when I slept easily in the hospital the night before the surgery. I really sensed that "peace that passes understanding" as I said goodbye to my family. And I will never forget the peace I felt amidst the storm while laying on the table preparing for my interventional neuroradiology to dissolve the blot clots in my brain that caused the stroke. Dearest Fran, I am confident you too will feel His peace. And then it will be over with and behind you, and that's so wonderful! Aren't you glad it's finally almost here/over!?
When do you actually leave for Cleveland? You are on my prayer calendar.
Love & Prayers,
Duane & Peggy
On February 25, 2010...
Hi Fran, Just pulled up this website today and what a wonderful way to communicate with your friends and family and let us all know how you are doing. I promise to keep you in my prayers at daily Mass and I look forward to all your e-mails. I feel confident that you will get along just great and your positive attitude will go a long way to make that happen. Love, carol ullrich
On February 25, 2010...
Hi Fran
Your long wait is nearing the end, isn't it? When you are in the hospital the nurses will no doubt guess one of their own is on site because I think you have the natural ability to ask intelligent and probing technical questions. I don't think you need heart nursing training to be able to clue in very quickly as to what is what.
Are those tapes music or someone talking? If you find them that great then I think they are a terrific idea. How many are there?
Thanks for the offer of some enjoyable warmth someday. I will return the offer if you'd ever like to enjoy the snow - be my guest! That's a joke. We usually have lovely springs and summers here and we are very close to Toronto. From the shore we can see the CN Tower in downtown Toronto.
My cousin has a winter place near Orlando and another friend has his condo on the gulf at North Reddington Beach where we've visited a ton of times. Other friends are on the Miami side. We were supposed to travel to friends in Hilton Head and then visit my cousin but I just didn't feel like travelling yet. Pete is going golfing to Tennessee with his buddies though. Many, many people from this area (Snow Birds) winter in Florida. It is my husband's wish we do the same but so far I've not wanted to leave my folks or the grandchildren that long. Maybe some day but for now, it will be short trips.
I've had a super busy day today so haven't had too much time to check the journals out and I was wondering about Penny's surgery so thanks for the update.
Hang in there Fran. Stay tough. Cheryl, Ontario
On February 25, 2010...
Hi Fran,
I just read your journal- what a great idea. I am going to let the girls know. We will keep in touch. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love, Peter and Nancy
On February 25, 2010...
Hello Fran. Nice to see you put this together. What a great way to keep everyone informed. I signed up for the emails. Thanks for sending this to me. I will keep sending positive thoughts your way. Much love, Jeanie
On February 25, 2010...
The relaxation tapes are really good for you. You are going to do great. I am thinking about going to the Cleveland Clinic in Weston just for a consultation -a second opinion.
That way I thought I could be in their system and when my time comes to go to the Cleveland Clinic for the surgery in Ohio. Hope you are staying peaceful. Linda
On February 25, 2010...
Hi Fran,
This journal is great. I have subscribed to the RSS service, and you come up on my home page when I look at the internet.
I will keep you in mind and pray for you.
Sorry I couldn't be there.
Hank Chelmsford, MA
On February 25, 2010...
Hi Fran,
Will keep you in my prayers and also the rest of the family.
This website and guestbook are a great idea.
love, Gail
On February 25, 2010...
Hi Fran! How are you this morning? I am feeling just fine...googled the time difference and you are right, we are 5 hours ahead of you. So at 8am on Friday morning when I am scheduled for OT it will be 3am your time. Thank you so much for your thoughts, prayers and messages. I plan to write to you this time next week all being well. Warmest wishes Penny
On February 24, 2010...
Hey Fran- Great Idea. You'll be all fixed up and ready to see me when I visit my friend Sam this summer in Estero.
Prayers to you, Pete and rest of family.
Bible Study (BS) Marilyn - Williamsburg
On February 24, 2010...
Hi Ms Fran,
Thanks for your prayers and words of encouragement while David was in the hospital this week with Cdiff. It was comforting to hear from you!
Marjorie Heathcoat, TX
On February 24, 2010...
Hi Fran, What a wonderful idea this guestbook is.You are surrounded with so much love of family and friends ,and so many prayers you are truly blessed. Your friend of 45 years---Shirley in New Hampshire
On February 24, 2010...
Fran,
What has your experience with Coumadin been? I've been thinking about which type of replacement valve I would get if I need surgery and I'm kind of leanning towards tissue, but i go back and forth. I hate getting my blood taken, and am kind of active (only 32 years old), so I'm just not sure. It's such a big decision and I don't want to have any regrets. If you could give me your thoughts on life on a blood thinner, I'd would love to hear them.
Thanks,
Patrick in STL
pcsfd2@gmail.com
On February 24, 2010...
Hi Franie! Marianne here....and you already
have my prayers. This a wonderful idea! You know you will be hearing from ME!
Smooches to you and to Pete
Love and hugs! Marianne in Pinehurst, NC
On February 23, 2010...
Good to hear from you, Fran. Thanks for the good thoughts, I'll keep you in my prayers on 3/18! I have some connections to Ohio. Was born & raised near Pgh by paternal grandmother. She was Swiss and we used to visit relatives in Clarington (Switzerland Twp)and also Bellaire. G-mother's stepmother was a Steiger and their farm was just down the road from the Isaly family. Sure wouldn't mind having one of their skyscraper ice cream cones again ... my favorite was whitehouse with the maraschino cherries. Yummy!
On February 23, 2010...
Hi Fran, thanks for the funny note in Richard's journal. I particularly got a laugh about Boston roads being built from Indian paths - very accurately describes the way I felt driving through there, I was even more nervous knowing I had my precious cargo in the back seat, but it was OK as you know.
Yes Fran, Richard had to get his dental clearance as well before he went into the hosptial, guess it is pretty standard.
I loved your idea about the Heart Valve Surgery reunion - actually came to my mind as well - talk about an opportunity to commiserate, tell war stores, and more importantly "rejoice" all wrapped into one!
We'll wait until you are all through and feeling great - although I think we have to wait for a few of you guys yet to feel really great - this time next year I would expect nothing but great stories from all.
Richard's wife, Susan
On February 23, 2010...
Hi Fran
You've been on the holding mat for so long I suppose you are all packed and ready. Do you find that you've got most of your questions answered already because of the information tabled on this site? Are you anxious at all? You can tell the nurses just to leave the equipment right beside your bed and you'll check your bp etc when you're up. I would find that handy. No one will be able to pull the wool over your eyes at any rate. Just sayin hi and that you are in my thoughts. Cheryl, Ontario
On February 22, 2010...
Hi,Fran. Yes, I do have a car. Went out to my garage yesterday to start it up and run it for 10 minutes, as it hasn't been used in 3 weeks. I do like to drive everywhere in Boston. Have to wait till March 4th visit with surgeon to get the okay to drive. What I won't tell him is that I drove to the appointment, as it is the 4 weeks time period. I hate spending 40 bucks on a taxi when I can drive my new car over to Beth Israel.
Thanks for checking in and best wishes,
Barbara
On February 22, 2010...
oh yeah Fran, I wanted you to knw that I can totally relate to the dental ceckup thing!! After my 1st surgery in 99 they decided just to pull all 4 of my wisdom teeth all at once ....ON THE SAME DAY!!!better to be safe than sorry I suppose! Your surgery is exactley 1 wk before my 41st birthday!I WILL BE PRAYING FOR YOU SWEETHEART!! David Pullano
On February 22, 2010...
Fran, wow !!What an inspiration you are!! Facing what your facing at 70 !!What an angel! Im only 40 & have already had the 2 replacments & a pacemaker!Im the cause though,hard living hard working & most of all, WAY too much hard playing!!I feel blessed 2 be here,just sad 4 not being able 2 give my kids the active dad they once had!MY love & prayers 2 u on the 18&ALWAYS!!
On February 22, 2010...
Fran,
There are possible complications from a heart infection if you have dental work too soon after heart surgery. Strange but true.
Oh the things you learn on the internet! Glad your dental health is okay...
Steven in Calgary
On February 22, 2010...
Good morning Fran,
I suppose Dr. Gillinov is being extra cautious by cutting off one of the possibilities of complications. I can't recall though whether or not I was even asked about my dental care and it certainly never crossed my mind. I go twice a year and my fall appointment was to be a couple of weeks after my surgery so I cancelled. I'm going in two weeks so I'll see what she has to say but I was going to opt out of x-rays at this time thinking I've had enough for a while. Just had a bone density this morning so I think my x-rays will wait 'till the fall. Maybe it doesn't make any difference and I'm just being quirky. Glad you had a good report and aren't having to mortgage the house. I see Richard just posted saying so far so good for Kathy. Cheers. Cheryl, Ontario
On February 22, 2010...
Happy Monday Fran were getting closer! I'll be at the same places you will be about 1 hour ahead, my appointments start at 7:15. I don't think Cleveland understands that 7:15 am is still the middle of the night!My next few weeks will be very busy with my work, I'm traing a new guy to help out while I'm on "vacation". I won't have much time to post on my journal, but I will be looking for you, I can spot a boater from mile away!
On February 21, 2010...
Hi Fran
You were right - my doctor did say pvc's but I kept hearing about A-fib and wondered what it was and if it was somewhat similar. Obviously after I googled it more, it isn't. I have pvc's and they are benign. I felt really relieved to wear the monitor for the two weeks because I felt all of my symptoms showed up enough to finally have them analyzed so now I feel more confident in going forward.
I might be nuts, but I think I feel a difference already with the pills. I'm starting low with just 1/2 pill and will work my way up to the full pill eventually if I need it. We've been busy this weekend but not a lot of walking so it'll be another few days before I know for sure.
Bill's so funny. You are going to have to hug that pillow big time once he gets mobile. Hope that robe doesn't get caught in his leopard thong or that'll be some wedgie.
I'm sure Dr.Gillinov and the confidence he instills is well worth the wait. Keep strong. Cheryl, Ontario
On February 21, 2010...
Hi Fran,
I will for sure keep up the Dental Plan. I purchased a warranty and have to keep up maintenance to keep the warranty in place. I'll have a much better resell value that way.
I had my last major work done last week. I did barter a free cruise on Grand Lake for him and his staff this summer inexchange for a crown. I then realized with the cost of fuel, it would have been cheaper just to pay him.
What’s your schedule like in Cleveland? I hope to meet you and I will be the man dressed in a Hugh Heffner robe, un-lit cigar, OU Slippers, my wife’s says the scotch will have to stay on the yacht.
This journal has been a wealth of knowledge, I keep coming up with what I think are pretty good question for Doc Gillinov, but then I get an answer from reading all these journals. My questions have been reduced to. Do you ever talk to Robin Williams and his he really that funny? Can I have a nurse take pictures of my heart and the staff during surgery? And how many tubes in which port holes?
Happy boating
Captain Bill
On February 21, 2010...
Hi Fran,
How are you? You and Cheryl are both so good at looking after everyone else on this site that it is easy for us on the receiving end to become quite selfish and keep taking from you without giving back!
Thank you so much for your help and support over the last few weeks - I hope that I can do the same for you next month. It's the most beautiful Sunday morning with the sun coming up over the mountains, thick snow on the ground and amazing icicles decorating our home (minus 19 last night), we are off to walk our dogs and remind ourselves how grateful we are for this life.
Warmest wishes
Penny (Scotland)
On February 19, 2010...
Thanks for the good advice, Fran. Yesterday in Boston was rather nice being 40 degrees and sunny. Not bad for this time of the year.
Rest, rest, rest.... it is to boring!!!!
Barbara (Boston)
On February 19, 2010...
Hi Fran
How good of you to write. I appreciate your concern and kind words. Is what I'm experiencing different than A-fib. I've seen so many talk of that it had me wondering. It's just not a term the doctor has used with me.
I was just writing to Sharlene and saying what a trip this heart surgery stuff is. You never know whether you are coming or going. I'll say this though, there is a huge amount of information and truths out there so you definitely get a full picture of what you may have to deal with. Thank goodness we are able to come back though and report some management of our symptoms.
I do hope as a nurse you can manage to keep in perspective that we are all different and our bodies will heal differently. If anyone should be aware of that, if should be someone with the experience of being in the nursing field. You no doubt have seen tremendous lows and wonderful bounce backs.
Do you find your background a negative or positive as you face your surgery? I think you are very fortunate to have been able to grab hold of Dr. Gillinov and gee, what better company than Capt'n Bill. That floor will be just a rippin'.
You take care and have a good day with your Peter. Mine has gone for breakfast with his buddies.
Cheryl, Ontario
On February 16, 2010...
Hi Fran, nice to see you got away a little to visit with family before S Day (Surgery Day). Do you have snow down there - it is funny to see it down south. We are just getting snow here in Maine today - first time in a while. Have to say it is better to have the surgery behind you than ahead of you (I think) - not sure you can tell from all the jourjnal entries (ha-ha). I sitll believe the journal entries are helpful - I know there is a lot going on with everyone's surgeries and post-op, etc., but I know it has been great having people with a common concern around like you and Cheryl, for instance.
I will continue to follow how it goes for you. Don't hesitate to ask questions. It is getting better for Richard, for instance - we just have to know it is a long haul but time will make it better and just having him here with me is more than enough for me! I know it must be the same for your big great family as well.
Richard's wife, Susan
On February 15, 2010...
Hi Fran
Thanks for writing in my guestbook.
Wow, you have a large family. How nice is that? Great that you were able to get together with most of them before your surgery. I'm sure there were lots of questions and lots of concern.
My husband and I have been married for 42 years this year. I know what you mean by being so close.
Hang in there Fran. The waiting is tough. Cheryl, Ontario
On February 15, 2010...
Hi Fran,
I'm very happy that your spending qualtity family time, even better in beautiful, sunny Florida. I bet you can tell I'm a Key West and Joes Stone Crab kind of guy. I'm wondering what the weather forecast is for Cleveland? I have spent some wonderful family and friend time at the Casino and Horse Track getting ready for the BIG race.
Keep listning to our relaxation and meditation music and I will see you too soon.
happy boating
captain Bill
On February 15, 2010...
I wish you alot of luck with your surgery. I am wondering if Medicare will cover you at the Cleveland Clinic. Will you let me know for that is where I would like to have my aorta valve replacement done as well. My email address is LRobe70259@aol.com. I live in Tampa, Fl.
On February 12, 2010...
Hi Fran
Just dropping by to ask you how you are doing. I see your many guestbook entries to others and thought I'd check up on you. From your entries to others you are sounding pretty calm so far which is a good thing. You are saying the CD really is helping you. How is your husband managing to cope with all of this? Trying times, eh? You have made lots of new friends to help support you through your surgery Fran. I'll be there to help too. Take care. Cheryl, Ontario
On February 8, 2010...
Fran, thank you for writing in my guest book a couple times. I read your journal and see you're working with guided imagery. That is what I did after reading Peggy Huddleston's book on preparing for surgey thru meditation and relaxation. I did not have to use any pain medication after the first day of surgery only Tylenol and Motrin. Stay with it and good luck on your March surgery. I was surprised what a breeze it truly was. Couldn't have convinced me of it before it happened though.
I feel that I have a new friend in you. Thanks for reading my journal. Two weeks post-op today and I'm feeling wonderful--still need some more strength but no pain!
I have a couple of suggestions for you that made my life more comfortable in the hospital. A neck pillow (like the ones used on airplanes) was my best friend and kept my head in alignment. Also a sleep mask and earplugs were helpful.I have a timex watch with a luminous dial that helped me