Hey Fran,
Just wondering what did he say about the pain in your shoulder area?
Theresa
On May 18, 2010...
Hi Fran,
I am so, so happy to hear the good news. I kept checking yesterday for an update, and was getting nervous about your cardio visit. You deserve nothing but the best, and I am glad you are back on track. Thrilled to hear you will be starting cardio rehab real soon...I love it! This is great news on a very dark and rainy day in NJ!!
Theresa Callanan
On May 18, 2010...
Hi Fran,
I now look so foward to your writings and uplifting words in my guestbook. Thank you for what you wrote yesterday. I'm am trying to keep the positive attitude but as each day gets closer I get more nervous!
On another note, it is such great news that you are doing better and able to continue with your recovery!
Have a wonderful week!
Kimberly S.
On May 18, 2010...
Really good news Fran. I'm happy for you.
We will be leaving today for the hospital, we will be staying at the HOuse of Care on the hospital grounds. Don't know what time my surgery is tomorrow yet, but I suspect early.
I'll be in touch when I get home.
Diana
On May 18, 2010...
Sorry about the multiple posts - wish I could delete them.
Ricki
On May 18, 2010...
Hi Fran!
I'm so happy to hear your lungs are doing better and you got a good report from your Cardio. On to rehab!
I arrived safely in Cleveland. It's rainy and cold. I have a full day of tests starting at 9:30 and my husband arrives around 6:30. A full day.
2 days!
Ricki
On May 17, 2010...
Good Morning Fran,
I'm going to ask my Aunt if she would post for me while I'm in the hospital. I don't think it will be a problem.
I'm trying to keep calm and relaxed, but its hard sometimes. I have all of you to look up to since you have been through it, I will too. I'll be so glad when its all done, tho. Looking forward to the recovery.
Diana
On May 15, 2010...
Hi Fran,
I just was wondering how you were feeling. I think about you often, and am praying that all your recovery issues get resolved real soon. You have had enough burdens to bear, and I hope we get to hear that you feel much better real soon. If positive outlook, and a real concern for fellow beings were the recipe for no complications after surgery...you would be running marathons now!!! I guess some of us are just lucky. I am praying for you...please keep us updated!
Theresa Callanan
On May 14, 2010...
Good morning Fran
How's the fluid situation? You know I'm thinking and praying for your continued recovery.
Sending you a big airwave hug!
Cheryl, Ontario
On May 13, 2010...
Thanks Fran! Your words of encouragement are always wonderful to hear. I KNOW everything will go well in Cleveland and I need to stay relaxed. I'm trying!! (The tapes do help!)
Yes, that's Ron and my wedding picture. We got married last June 6th. I told him he got a 1-year warranty and that he could trade me in on a newer model!
Hope you're feeling well and have returned to rehab.
Ricki
On May 12, 2010...
Hi Fran. You're right about Pete being a keeper. Congratulations on your upcoming 50th! Our 35th is later this month.
My surgery will be at the Heart Hospital in Austin, TX. It has been rated #1 in Texas for several years now. I mainly have confidence in the surgeon, Dr. John (Chip) Oswalt. I was referred to him for a 2nd opinion by another doctor after I was given "watch & wait" advice from the first cardiologist. Dr. Oswalt told me that once the stenosis is in the severe range, the surgery is needed which seemed more in line with what I've read on Adam's website. Also, I first saw Dr. Oswalt in Adam's surgeon list, so the referral kind of sealed the deal. I appreciate your advice on the Cleveland Clinic & will keep it in mind in case I don't continue to feel confident about my choice.
Take care, Joy Vera
On May 12, 2010...
Hi Fran,
I keep checking up on you to see how you're doing. Mother's Day was great with my new heart valve ticking away as steady as a rock.
Thank God for all our blessings.
Love, Bev
On May 12, 2010...
Hi Fran
Wishing you a belated wonderful Mother's Day. I am very lucky to have my mom still and especially as she's in as good a health as she is. My step-dad is a real treasure as well and I am grateful that he is able to look after her so well. I lent my laptop and don't stay in the office in the evenings so am falling a little behind in my e-mails etc. so I'm making a concerted effort right now to catch up.
You wrote me on the 7th saying most of the fluid was gone from the lungs so I would hope that five days later even more has gone. If you are now out to the rec centre doing some walking you have to be improving which is very welcome news indeed. It has been slow going for you but I do believe you have turned a positive corner and will continue to move forward.
I don't disbelieve the year timing for recovery but when I heard some doctors report that possible recovery for Barbara Walters to be 1-3 months I thought I'd like to have had one of those guys!
I'm still doing my rehab and am increasing the speed. We work out for the same time each week so I can't very well increase the distance there but at home, we are taking longer walks when we can. Our weather here is still changing so on the nice days we make sure we go out. No word yet on what's up with the Coumadin/Warfarin. In order to discuss that with my doctor I have to make the time for an appointment and I just haven't gotten around to doing that yet. Obviously I'm not all that bummed out by using it.
I generally feel well, just more tired than I would like. It's just the pills and eventually we'll get them all sorted out. I see the cardiologist next month for a pulmonary stress test so I guess that will give me my real results.
Keeping you close in my prayers.
Cheryl, Ontario
On May 12, 2010...
Good Morning Fran,
Yes, I'm very pro-active in my health. Sometimes I think too much. But, the reason he didn't order an antibiotic right away is because of the culture coming back negative. Just felt the antibiotic cream would do the trick. But, was more stubborn then he anticipated. It really looks good now, Fran, I'm so relieved. It might be a little red yet by surgery time, but all the holes are healed and actually looks like I burned myself there now.
Thank you so much for your input, it helped a great deal.
Diana
On May 12, 2010...
Hi Fran,
I have come to think of you as the Heart Valve Journal angel:) You are always there with words of encouragement and advice that is needed! Thank you...it helps so much in the days leading up to my surgery. I did make it through yesterday and now just to get through today and I get a day off tomorrow-ok, not really, my dentist appt is tomorrow to have 3 teeth cut out and my cleaning to get my clearance. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and continued healing!
Kimberly S.
On May 11, 2010...
Hi Fran,
Still praying for you and that fluid. You always maintain that positive attitude though...and thats a gift!
Randy left early this am for Bonita Springs...didn't realize exactly where on the west coast he was going till this am. I told him I wish I would have known and I would have planned to go along and stop to say "hi"...but don't think I could of taken riding in the back seat that long with his driving. :) He has had several cases over your way in the past few months. Besides being an architect, he works with attorneys as an expert witness on certain cases. He is a character, a real jokester (sp)and enjoys giving the opposing attorney a hard time. :)
The discomfort that I didn't have in the beginning seems to have caught up with me. My chest is sore and I keep hoping that I haven't done anything by the way I was sleeping on my side...as much as I don't like it I force myself to sleep on my back now.
I went out for a walk this am...warm but a great breeze. Its been so hot and humid recently I haven't even wanted to go outside. Thought I would put on my "Panama Hat" we bought in Peru but that didn't work too well - every time a gust of wind came...off sailed my hat...and then the worst part...having to bend over and pick it up. Randy called to make sure I got back home okay and told me he heard it was suppose to be about 91 in Bonita Springs...hotter than PBG.
We booked a flight for our 3 TN grandkids to come in July for 2 weeks. They came alone last summer, plus our 2 FL grandkids and we had "Camp Mimi and Pop-Pop" and had a great time. I needed something to keep me motivated to keep working at getting my stamina back. I've had some low days and want to keep my eyes on the prize of renewed health and energy.
Hope you get a good report with the x-ray and Dr. Fran!
Blessings,
Carla
On May 10, 2010...
Hi Fran,
Thank you for the wonderful message you left on my journal. It brightened my day:) Hope you had a wonderfu Mother's Day!
Kimberly S.
On May 9, 2010...
Hi Fran
Happy Mother's Day. I lent my laptop to the kids to complete their taxes on (I had the tax program on it) and I keep forgetting to get it back so I haven't been able to log in as often in the evenings once I leave work. I'm falling behind. We've been doing Mother's Day celebrations yesterday and today. I'm so lucky to have my mom here at a cool 85+. She's still pretty mobile and enjoys a good laugh.
Now that I'm writing you, I remember you asking me something but can't remember what! I'll have to log out and check it out and then write back. Great memory - it's short!
I really did think you were sounding better except for that bit of fluid still hanging around. I commend you for getting on the treadmill at all and doing as much as you did so I'm delighted to see some real improvement in your health. It is slow, isn't it?
Oh, I remember - you were asking me about the Warfarin. I haven't spoken to my family doctor at all about the length of time I may still be on this drug. Eventually I will make the time for an appointment to see what she has to say. I thought I was supposed to be on it for about 3 months - well, I've just counted 7 months and there doesn't seem to be any notes about stopping it. I'm wondering if my continuing on it has something to do with the pvc's and sinus rhythm of my heart. Eventually I'll be clued in but in the meantime, I'm still a faithful user. It's pretty much regulated itself - last week getting into the higher zone so I just cut back by half a pill every other day.
Hope you are having a wonderful day today. Did you get to see your grandson?
Cheryl, Ontario
On May 8, 2010...
Fran,
A very Happy Mothers Day to you....enjoy your day you deserve it. This year it will be extra-special for all of us.
Theresa Callanan
On May 8, 2010...
Hi Fran,
Thank you for visiting my journal. You are an inspiration. Also, thank you for the suggestions to my question about what to bring to the hospital, it was very helpful!
I hope your pain starts to get better.
Well wishes for a healthy heart,
Kimberly S.
On May 6, 2010...
Hi Fran,
Thank you for visiting my guestbook & for the support. You are so right about the journals being beneficial. I believe it will prove especially helpful in keeping my yoga students up to date. I've already coached my husband on how to use it so he can post when I'm unable to do so. You know, although you're not up to the physical end of things right now, you may be able to continue yoga in some form - I'm thinking pranayama (breathing exercises) or meditation. I'm finding that my practice has evolved more in that direction in the last couple of weeks. Should you ever be interested, I'd be glad to work with you over the phone or send you something in writing.
Thank you again & be well - Joy Vera
On May 6, 2010...
Hi Fran,
Yes, I'm hoping that it was a blessing, too, that my surgery was pushed back a few days. Sure hope so anyway. Doctor feels that by the weekend, it should be healed, and you can be sure if it isn't by Monday, I'll be knocking on his door, for sure. He said that I'm having a reaction to the salve I was using on it, so now I have an irratation on top of an infection. Fun, Fun!!!!
Hope that your feeling better. Maybe you should call your doctor about your back and shoulder pain, just to touch base with him and to be on the safe side. Make sure nothing else is going on, you know what I mean.
Diana
On May 5, 2010...
PS, Richard did have some pains in his back between the shoulders as I remember him sayin it to me and says he still gets some at times, but not severe. He still gets pains in his chest and funny feelings that he can't explain as well. He is getting better but not there yet.
Take care.
Richard's Wife, Susan
On May 5, 2010...
I Fran,sorry to hear that you have had the congestive problems, but it sounds like the antibiotics are kicking in! You say one of these days you are going to have the best good news report for your recoup, but not just yet - I just know that will happen, but March 18th really isn't all that long ago and as you heart valvers get frequently told, it takes time.
Richard updates me frequently on how you are doing and we both think of you!
Richard's Wife, Susan
On May 5, 2010...
Hi Fran
I'm so relieved to hear that most of your congestion has dissapated. Maybe now you can really get about your exercise and on the right track.
Perhaps I named the golf cart wrong - it's the little cart you put your bag on and then drag that. Sometimes they rent a four wheel motor driven cart and sometimes not, depends upon availability when they get to the course I suppose. People up here don't normally own and transport little motor driven golf carts to courses and instead just rent what is there. I believe in many gated communities in the States the residents own those little motor carts - I know a few of our friends do.
I have no idea what Don is talking about in relation to such a long delay in seeing a surgeon. Late March or early April my cardiologist said he was referring me on up the chain. May I saw a surgeon who said he was going to watch me. By June he decided I needed to get in for testing so he wanted to arrange the testing for early July but I was going on holidays and then he had holidays so we settled on the end of July. Once testing was over that surgeon referred me to the valve surgeon and I had a date for August. In August the surgeon booked me for September according to his and my plans. I got sick in Sept and consequently had the surgery Oct 1st. I could have ended up going earlier if I didn't want to ruin a few plans I was making over the summer and I didn't feel I was in any immediate danger. Maybe out west there are fewer surgeons but I can't imagine that being the case. I would think there is more to it. I don't believe he other couple of people on this site from out west didn't talk about any major delays in getting a surgery date.
I've read the newspapers where people here are waiting for knee replacements but then I personally know several people who've gone through replacements and none of them waited unless it was for things they were doing personally getting in the way of a suitable date.
Now that I have my cardiologist I can see him anytime I feel the need and what's really great is that his secretary readily answers his phone! My family doctor's office is a total waste of time and for small things we just go to the walk-in clinic. We have a shortage of doctors here in Canada and it's not easy to change family doctors in particular but it's not impossible either.
Pete's home from Rotary and looking for lunch. Jeeze, the one morning he actually goes somewhere where he has the choice of a really big breakfast he comes home hungry. Go figure. I think he's too busy chatting and planning so doesn't eat.
It's hot here today - up in the 70's. I can feel the house beginning to take on the heat. I love it.
Take care. Praying for you.
Cheryl, Ontario
On May 4, 2010...
Hi Fran,
Yes, I had a sharp pain behind my right shoulder blade for about a week that was worse when I coughed or sneezed. I believe that mine was linked to fluid in lung, although it was bliss when Steve massaged the area. I upped my duiretics for a couple of days and took paracetamol which helped. Keep healing! Hugs and love Penny
On May 4, 2010...
Hi Fran
I had pain everywhere except the incision site. My neck, back and right arm were really sore for sometime. I was bruised in those sites as well so I must have been twisted up like a pretzel! How's the fluid?
Cheryl, Ontario
On May 4, 2010...
Hi Fran,
Yes, my back hurt too. Mainly when I was walking early on. I would walk awhile and sit down for a few minutes before walking. Also, I would lay flat on my back several times a day. Generally ibrubrophren would help. With time, it went away.
Hang in there. Melissa Boardman
On May 4, 2010...
Hi Fran,
On your question about back pain, I had some nasty shoulder pain that started about about a week after surgery. (Motrin seemed to help me.) Doctor said it was position they had me on the operating table, with arm hanging off while they did the operation. Congrats on no incision pain!
Joe
On May 3, 2010...
Hi Fran
Just double checking on you again after the weekend and hoping you are going to get back to me saying you are much better.
Keeping you close in my prayers.
Cheryl, Ontario
On May 3, 2010...
Morning Fran,
Oh, I know that I'm going to have to be very mobile after surgery. But, the recliner will be good for sleeping at night, until I feel comfortable enough to sleep in bed again. I remember I felt good a couple of my other surgeries to sleep in a recliner, and it lasted only a couple of weeks.
How are you doing? You've been on my mind a lot and hoping that things are on the upswing for you.
Diana
On May 3, 2010...
Dearest Fran,
Good morning! May today find you well and hopefully laryngitis free! It was so nice of Pete to call and let me know you were doing okay the other day. Back on your feet now? I hope and pray so.
My Gastroenterologist did tell me they watch the 8 hours of film in high speed, so mabye it was more riveting than I feared. ;-)
Several other Valvers have posted on my guestbook their experiences with vertigo too. Interesting. I was on amiodarone for 2 months (stopped April 7) and I was told it stays in your system for 8 months. I've also been on Celebrex for almost 3 months now. Both of these can cause dizziness, so it is possibly medication induced. My stroke makes everyone--my doctors, my wife, me--a bit more paranoid and perhaps overly cautious. Thus my family doctor's referral to a neurologist, from whom I have not yet heard. I do welcome the check. Thankfully it has never happened while driving.
Glad you have had good results on Crestor. My Rx is for 20 mg per day.
Thanks for your continued prayers, friendship, and support. Back at you. I told Pete we are coming to Naples for a meeting July 22-24, so maybe we can figuring out getting together again.
Take good care, Fran.
Duane
On May 1, 2010...
Hi Fran,
I signed Capt'n Bills guestbook before I got to yours but I was telling him that at 9 weeks I still get wiped out some days and still have days when the fluid seems to really build up in both lungs. The pattern seems to be that the fluid build up follows a day or two of not enough exercise so I am really trying to make that a top priority every day. That gets harder on days that I am feeling really fatigued. I am no longer anaemic but tests still show under active thyroid which would account for tiredness. I have an appointment with an endocrinologist but really don't want to start any more drugs - I am trying to come off them! My doctor says that one of the drugs that I was taking - Amilodorone - is known to cause thyroid interference. I can't remember if it was you or Cheryl that asked why I call my surgeon Mr and not Dr? I think that here in the UK it goes back to Victorian times when surgeons weren't much more than butchers and they didn't require qualifications!
Wishing you a lovely weekend, love and hugs Penny x
On April 30, 2010...
Hi Fran
Well I see you are just going to do this your own way - baby steps it is then. Really concerned about the congestion but obviously the doctor isn't so I suppose that is a good sign. Is it a cold you now have? Hopefully the antibiotic does the trick for everything - like this weekend would be good.
My Pete is an any type weather golfer and up here that's means he golfs right up into December. As long as the snow isn't covering the ground he golfs. Snow can be falling, just not staying. Up until last summer he has always carried his clubs on his back but I talked him into a cart and now that darn thing has taken up residence in the back of his SUV. When we get groceries we are having to fit stuff here and there and then in the backseat. He says you never know when he might get the urge to hit the course again.
I have some great pictures of Pete and his friends on a golf course and you can hardly see them for the snow falling.
You take care Fran and I sincerely hope you have a much better night tonight.
Cheryl, Ontario
On April 30, 2010...
Hi, Fran. Nice to hear from you. Cataract operation was a piece of cake and was back to work the next morning. Now for the other eye on May 17 -- then I'll be perfect!
The book you asked about is Prepare for Surgery Heal Faster, a guide of mind-body techniques by Peggy Huddleston. It also comes with two CDs to listen to and relax. It did the trick for me and eliminated medicating myself other than Motrin.
Hope you're feeling well and good luck to your friend in her May surgery.
The Boston real estate market is back in swing. Put a Marlborough St. listing under agreement last night and have a new one coming on Sunday in the South End. So I am happy to know I will finally have some income by summer.
Best,
Barbara from Boston
On April 30, 2010...
Morning Fran,
Good to hear from you and sounds like your on your way on the mend, too.
My wrist really has me concerned. Altho the cultures came back negative, there is still an infection. Why I got this I have no idea. I was so careful keeping it covered and washing it with soap and water like they instructed me. Just one of those things, I guess.
Yes, I have lost weight. About 13 pounds, so far. Its not a bad thing, Fran, because I am on the heavy side anyway. I'm trying to keep myself calm by doing things in our new house. Shopping helps, too. ;) I've been taking deep breaths and closing my eyes, and looking on the positive side of things. The Power of Positive thinking, goes a long way. And I pray.
I'll let you know what the doctor has to say when I hear from him.
Diana
On April 29, 2010...
Good morning Fran
Bet you are enjoying some great hot weather there in Florida. We have a wonderful sunny day here and it's warming up as well. Pete has gone golfing under what he calls perfect conditions so he's happy. He studies the weather from one game to the next.
I'm sure some of your exhaustion is the lengthening delay of really getting on your feet and using your muscles for longer periods of time. You have a wonderful attitude so I know while you may be disappointed, you aren't a quitter. It's hard pushing yourself day in and day out.
My blood pressure has been dropping and is now 100/60 with a resting rate of 54-60 so next week the rehab nurse said she'll really look into what's going on. I'm on a BP pill and Beta Blocker so something might have to get adjusted before I keel over. I just keep saying that shows my mellow personality! I have no energy so to speak, so have to push myself to do anything. However, that being said, I thank God everyday that this is fixable.
The lab results came back negative on that growth so that was good. I wasn't worried about it because the surgeon told me up front it didn't look cancerous. I'm still pretty sore though.
Guess I should wrap the journal reading up and get back to work. I just wanted to check in on your again. Hi to Pete.
Cheryl, Ontario
On April 28, 2010...
Hi Fran
So......how are you?
Cheryl
On April 28, 2010...
Sheesh, Fran, you need to wrap this mess up and get well. Just "Get Over It!" Keepin' ya in prayer. Get better!
Pam
On April 28, 2010...
Hang in there Fran. You will feel better soon. I haven't been on here much but still keep you and others in my thoughts & prayers. Take care, Melissa Boardman
On April 27, 2010...
Thanks for posting in my guestbook, Fran. I'll have to re-review Adams book. The nurse had told me not to pack too much because I really wouldn't use it. So, since a lot are veterans here, thought I would ask. Making a list so I don't forget everything everybody has recommended it to.
Hope you doing good today.
Diana
On April 27, 2010...
I say a little prayer every day for us. Hoping for a speedy recovery, but I also found out a few days ago from my GP that the 6 weeks could very easly be 6 months. I keep saying; I did not read the fine print...just keep pushing forward and don't get in a hurry and our time will come. Did I really just say don't get in a hurry.. I am Mr. I want it now,,,,this has been a good lesson for me. best wishes for your day.
happy boating
Captain Bill
On April 26, 2010...
My dear Fran
So sorry that you have to be going through all this...but you are such an inspiration to all who cross your path...take care,may you be filled with love,strength and peace and know you are thought of everyday. Love Sharlene
On April 26, 2010...
My thoughts and prayers are with you. You are a very courageous and lovely lady and I will be glad when you do not have to deal with the fluid on your lungs which hopefully will soon not be a problem. Linda
On April 26, 2010...
Hi Fran
Yes, that wasn't the best post-op we've seen but it wasn't the worst. At least there is something they can do to remove the fluid. I'm just sorry you have to go through that again. Your very strong faith shows through in your gracious attitude of acceptance. You continue to be in my prayers.
Cheryl, Ontario
On April 26, 2010...
Hi Fran,
Take care, rest up and know that you are in many people's prayers.
Sharon and Jim
On April 26, 2010...
Fran,
I just wanted to let you know I am still following your progress and praying for you. You are such a trooper...and I also can not wait to hear that nasty fluid is gone, gone, gone!!!! Glad to hear your heart rate is good!
Theresa Callanan
On April 26, 2010...
Dear Fran,
I'll be standing by to hear the good news of your healing when things start going much better for you, and I will rejoice along with you! You are being put through so many trials right now (too many!) and you are very much in my thoughts and prayers.
You continue to be such an inspiration to me and many others. Don't despair, this too shall pass.
Susan Murphy
On April 26, 2010...
Things will get better Fran. Just a big hiccup right now. You will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Diana
On April 25, 2010...
Hello Fran,
Hope your lungs are finally clearing up and that you are feeling better.
You are a real special person. You have been through so much but are offering suggestions to keep me focused. My surgery is schedule at the Univ. of PA.
Thank you for your prayers and suggestions. You also, are in mine.
Just wondering what did he say about the pain in your shoulder area?
Theresa