Jeff
Wishing the very best for you, and keep us update on your status, because we want to see you back on the field, on what you do best for our group which is pitching and some good hitting with RBI.
and remember you have a good strong arm to go 9 innings.
and you know what I'm going to say, LOL
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Gus. I need you in the O.R. You can help pull me through this :). I will think of you telling ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Gus. I need you in the O.R. You can help pull me through this :). I will think of you telling me "it doesn't hurt", "you're doing great" and "you go this"...just like when I pitch and you catch me.
On February 27, 2012...
Dr. Jeff,
I wish you the best of luck with the procedure. You have been a wonderful mentor and a great inspiration in many respects. If you want, I can compile a list of Chuck Norris Facts and simply substitute the name "Chuck Norris" for "Dr. Jeff" for each fact and read it to you before you go into operation. Talk about an epic affirmation. Don't read them after, it may hurt to laugh. Jokes aside, I wish you the best Dr. Jeff! You've got this!! -Anthony Harris
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Anthony. Appreciate you writing to me. If Chuck Norris facts will motivate me I am all for it. ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Anthony. Appreciate you writing to me. If Chuck Norris facts will motivate me I am all for it. No laughing post surgery that is for sure. Thanks again.
On February 27, 2012...
Thanks Jeff. My email is lindathetiger@yahoo.com
Hope you have a great week. We can count down together!
Linda Dixon
On February 26, 2012...
Ok dr S. it's me ! I'm so proud of you & all you've do e & know you'll do a great job ( or the surgeon will ). You ve got a lot going on this week & I'll try not to bother u but may try calIng afterward - Just don't wanna bother. But don't wanna be forgotten either. And of course wanna hear how it's all going.
Tell you it's hard to tell I've had the surgery ! You will do super. ( how'd your base ball game go ?).
Ok. Enjoy &. Now sit back relax & enjoy the ride. !
Hug. Nancy. St Louis.
Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Nancy,
Thanks so much. You can call me anytime. ANYTIME! :)
On February 26, 2012...
Getting close bro! Best part of your trip is we get to meet!!!! OK, getting fixed is pretty good too. But, hey as Dixon said, with me you get your own personal guide and coach. I am here for you and your family.
Keep up all the positive work to stay ready. Cry or not, I think you will be just fine over the next week or so. And for sure, you will do great in surgery and in recovery.
All the best,
-Mitch Friedman
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks again Mitch. Can't thank you enough for your support these last couple of months.
On February 26, 2012...
One of these days, I'll remember to sign these - that last post was from Chuck Holmgreen.
On February 26, 2012...
Jeff,
Yes, you are good and you will be better!! Whether or not the Big Cry comes - who cares?
My wife just mentioned last night that she attributes a lot of my calmness to the power and value of everyone on this site. I'm certain you are receiving that same benefit. We are all willing to give because we want to give. That is a SPECIAL group of people to be associated with.
I'm happy for you that yours is almost here. You're going to kick butt in your last two BB games and this fall, they won't be able to keep up!!
Show us how it's done Jeff!
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Chuck! Had a good day out there today! So true about this site. Power, value, friendship and ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Chuck! Had a good day out there today! So true about this site. Power, value, friendship and so much more!
On February 26, 2012...
Jeff, So glad your surgery date is almost here, the anxiety of waiting will be over and you will be repaired and on the road of recovery. You will do awesome. You attitude is key in recovery and yours is positive as can be! I think its great that you have affirmation cards and have been reading. I did not have a mantra, thankfully remembered someone's from here and used it when I woke up and still had tube for 12 hours. It was Prayer, Hope, Don't worry. I still use it when I'm pushing to get in my 2 miles. You,being young, good health, in shape will have a good outcome and recovery. I have you in my thoughts and prayers. I look forward to your recovery posts!! Janis Kielbas
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Janis. I still can't believe you were awake with the breathing tube in for 12 hours. I guess h ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Janis. I still can't believe you were awake with the breathing tube in for 12 hours. I guess having a mantra is all you can do. God bless you for getting thru that. I recall you telling that story in one of your posts. Still unbelievable. I hope I am OUT for most of my breathing tube time
On February 26, 2012...
Hey Jeff, thanks for the idea about the cards for the affirmation statement. I'm gonna steal that! You know, I ordered the Peggy Huddleston Book and CD over a week ago and I have not received it yet. It also has not been charged to my credit card. Hmmm...guess I have something else to straighten out.
I don't know if you are a spiritual or "religious" man, but you know there is scripture which I will paraphrase: " the prayers of a righteous man availeth much". To me that says when God fearing people pray for you (your 2 patients) that really gets God's attention and He gives it "special" consideration.
In all honesty, right now I can't get much past "God, please protect me". I think maybe that is good enough!! I am facebook friends with Dr. Gillinov and I see all these links where he is at all of these signings and events promoting his book and I just want to scream at him "GO HOME, REST UP, DON'T OVERUSE YOUR HANDS!!!" I find myself wondering if his "mind" will be where it should be on my day! Hopefully, he is really good at compartmentalizing!
So, my friend, we are getting down to the wire now. I am pretty good, I do have some pretty big butterflies from time to time, and have to fight back the tears on occasion also. Guess that just means we are human.
Good luck with your games today. Go get'em!
REALLY getting closer..Linda Dixon
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Linda. I like that part about special consideration. Cool! Gillinov will be fine. He is so go ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Linda. I like that part about special consideration. Cool! Gillinov will be fine. He is so good at these that a few book signings are not going to make any difference to him. I found another CD which is even better I think. Send me your email and I will send you the link. I bought them via a dowmload but then I found a free download.
On February 26, 2012...
Jeff,
Glad to see your great and highly positive attitude on the countdown. And best of luck in today's baseball games
Jim Smith
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Jim. Trying my best to stay positive. I pitched well in game 1 today, 11Ks in 8 innings. Then ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Jim. Trying my best to stay positive. I pitched well in game 1 today, 11Ks in 8 innings. Then 2 for 4 at the plate in my second game. All in all a good day. That's it for me until the fall season, when I come back with a vengeance.
On February 25, 2012...
Dear Jeff,
I am a betting woman, and I am counting on you breaking Chris's record of nine days.
You have many angels......... Love, margaret
Jeffrey Shebovsky I'll hope to even be close to Chris' record. I'm up for the challenge. Funny you mention the angels. ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky I'll hope to even be close to Chris' record. I'm up for the challenge. Funny you mention the angels. In one of my guided imagery CD's there is a band of angels that you imagine are there with you, watching over you. Then you imagine the faces of these angels are people you know....family, friends, etc. Great stuff!
On February 25, 2012...
Hey Jeff. Start now with your healing affirmations. I made laminated cards and gave them to the anest and a nurse hung one from an iv. Give them to all your patients and write the date and time of your surgery. Above all be happy and give thanks for the great drs and scientists we have in this world that let us get heart valve surgery and be out of the hospital and walking around in 4 days. I know you have lots of people to get advice from but I have a similar perspective and motivation as you. I hope I can help you. Take care. Jeff P
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Jeff. I'm all over the affirmations. Great idea about the laminated cards. Thanks for your sup ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Jeff. I'm all over the affirmations. Great idea about the laminated cards. Thanks for your support.
On February 25, 2012...
In return for stealing your February 27 date, I'll be sure to take good notes in the hospital for you. I plan on running out of the hospital 30 minutes after surgery and setting a new record for recovery time. :-) Thanks for being there for me Jeff.
Chris Dixon
Jeffrey Shebovsky Go for it. Then, 9 days later, I will break your record with a 29 min discharge time.:)
On February 25, 2012...
"Good Luck" with your surgery!
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
We Love You
Brenda and Stuie
Suspiciously quiet. You ok ? You have done everything possible to be ready & you are ! You have a great date a all will be just perfect. You get to meet Mitch & Chris. Lucky ! Take pix !!
Honest Jeff 2 weeks post is. "what's all the big deal about". Florida s great. Glad I did this. Started the walking so on my way
Thinking of ya. ! Lov. Nanc.
Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Nancy,
I replied to your email address.Glad you are doing great. NOW get walking! :)
On February 23, 2012...
Hi Jeff,
It was Jane telling you about the massage.
It sounds silly, but it was a great way to get into relaxation mode.
You will do great.
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Jane. Already had 2 massages this week. I ill look into this in the hospital
On February 23, 2012...
I just read that your surgery is only two weeks away. It sounds like you have done everything that you can to prepare. Try to get some rest and think about the peace of mind that you will have after the procedure. Sometimes in life you have to stop everything you are doing in order to take care of yourself. That is the best gift you can give your family. I just wanted to wish you well and let you know I was thinking about you.
David Schindler
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks David. So true what you said there! Appreciate your support.
On February 22, 2012...
Hi Jeff, I dont think I have talked to you. I want to wish you good luck on your day. My doctor has put me on hold for at least 5 months. Guess that is ok but I would rather erase all of this from my mind. So I will be here for the long haul. So take care and good luck to you.
Until Much Later Linda H
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks SO much! I saw your journal. More waiting for you I guess. Surgery stinks but so does the wait ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks SO much! I saw your journal. More waiting for you I guess. Surgery stinks but so does the waiting
On February 22, 2012...
Look bro, all that girlie stuff aside, you will be ready. You will get to your place of calm, then you will meet this challenge head on. You can and will do this!
Plus, you know I am kidding about the girlie stuff. Whatever it takes you to get ready is an important step in the process. Do what you need bro!
After all that work, you're going to need the relaxation CD.
You're going to do Great!
I'd invite you to come up here and run the Peachtree with us, but you'll probably show us all up!!
I ordered the book & CD you recommended. I expect them to show up tomorrow or Friday.
Chuck Holmgreen.
Jeffrey Shebovsky LOL! True. Hope you enjoy the book and CD. Very helpful
On February 22, 2012...
Hi Jeff,
The hospital I had my surgery at offered a massage when the patients are in a regular room. The first one was free and the others were 35. It was so great. I was able to call upon my methods of relaxation and immediately feel great. They only do the areas they have access to without disturbing you. It was mostly neck (while still lying on my back) shoulders, arms and hands and feet. I think it is one of Dr. Oz's grants that provide it. The massage therapists were lovely. I wish every one could have that offered to them. Check and see if it is available to you.
Jeffrey Shebovsky I will for sure check out the massage. Who is this anyway?
On February 22, 2012...
I'm starting to hone in on peace. Something is starting to pour over my soul as I get closer. People are right Jeff, something is happening. I'm praying for you my friend. Big hugs to you, Carol and your beautiful children.
By the way, I am COMPLETELY in on the "Union" in Orlando. I think I told you that we had to cancel our Disney trip at Christmas because I was feeling so dizzy all the time. I can think of nothing better than to pick right back up where my life briefly paused. I really want to take my kiddos to the Keys too. Can't all your heart valve brothers and sisters just crash at your place? C'mon, I'll even do all the cooking. :-))
... I'll check on your "people" while you are busy ... OMQ
On February 21, 2012...
I can't believe how close it is. I wish I could be there when you have your surgery. Love you Jeff!
Love Julie
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks for writing Julie. You will be here when I get back. No problem. Better to see me when I am ba ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks for writing Julie. You will be here when I get back. No problem. Better to see me when I am back and doing better
On February 21, 2012...
Hi Jeff,
I saw your comments about the relative useful lives of the various valves. I am coming up on my reop after 20+ years with a bovine valve. It has finally given way God bless the little thing. I was only 33 years old when it was implanted in 1991 and I was told it would last 8-10 years. Ha! Needless to say I am getting another one! I hope I haven't further complicated your decision. I wish you the best of luck and let me know if I can give you any advice or words of wisdom.
Robert Tucker
Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Robert,
WOW! Great! And implanted at 33! That is impressive! I appreciate the feedback. I am goi ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Robert,
WOW! Great! And implanted at 33! That is impressive! I appreciate the feedback. I am going with a Ross procedure on March 7th and I am at peace with this decision. Thanks so much. I wish you a bovine valve that lasts for life this time around!!
On February 21, 2012...
So...with all this reading and listening and writing....are you gonna work any the next two weeks, lol??? I bet your patients are lining up to get those last minute adjustments before you go out.
Two weeks for you, 3 for me! Dude...what happened to the time???? Was I really complaining before????
So, let's just breathe, that's bound to help. I asked Dr. Gillinov if he had any tips for pre-surgery jitters. His response was: "relax, exercise, take a walk...a glass of red wine!" Okie dokie... I can do the red wine, check. Take a walk...just around the house..foot fracture you see. Relax....R-I-G-H-T- easy for you to say Dr. G.!
But...actually I'm doing okay the last couple of days. The wine helps, lol. So, I leave for Cleveland the day after your surgery. Since it seems you guys are in a race to see who can bounce back the fastest....isn't Jimmy something else?....you will probably already be up walking by the time I go flying.
Wow, Jeff, it is really, really getting close!
Yikes...Linda Dixon
Jeffrey Shebovsky Yeah, yeah I know...relax. I am just trying to get the most positive I can going in. I am not overly ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Yeah, yeah I know...relax. I am just trying to get the most positive I can going in. I am not overly anxious, or nervous.....yet. I did have some wine this weekend. Maybe need MORE!
On February 21, 2012...
Hi Jeffrey,
I simply cannot believe that you are doing all of this:
"...reading 3 different books, doing a relaxation and guided imagery CD, compiling my surgery song playlist, writing a surgery affirmation, writing my pre and post surgery "healing statements" that the surgeon or anesthesiologist will read to me, and so much more..."
You will be fine, my advice to you would be to try to relax, read fun book, watch a good movie, trust the doctors and it will all be just fine!
You are young and otherwise healthy so there is no worries, OK?
Ivana
Jeffrey Shebovsky I am not overly anxious or nervous. Just going with what I know and that is that having a positive at ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky I am not overly anxious or nervous. Just going with what I know and that is that having a positive attitude helps big time in outcome and recovery. Thanks so much for your support. I DO need to get back to my OTHER reading that I enjoy. I figured I would read that in recovery :)
On February 21, 2012...
Well, aren't you the little Julie McCoy (social director on old show The Love Boat for all you youngings out there). I love the idea, but I thought we decided like a hundred of us were cramming into your studio apt in the Turks and Caicos????
-Mitch Friedman
Jeffrey Shebovsky Julie McCoy? Love Boat? You ARE dating yourself. But I'll have to admit, I used to watch that dumb sh ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Julie McCoy? Love Boat? You ARE dating yourself. But I'll have to admit, I used to watch that dumb show quite a bit. Maybe you could be "Gopher"? And yes, I'm sure we could all cram into my studio in the Turks.
On February 21, 2012...
Hi Jeff,
I had the same thought, but in New York of course.
Goof idea. I have found that the intensity subsides dramatically after surgery. We would all just enjoy meeting each other.
Jane
Jeffrey Shebovsky New York is good too, but more expensive, and cold if it is a November meeting.
On February 21, 2012...
First annual meeting of the Has Been Club....sounds like fun. We can compare stories and scars.
BTW...I may be in Orlando in late April for business....if so, I may look you up. You should be in full recovery mode by then and you will tell me, "this wasn't as bad as I thought."
JH Mattingly
Jeffrey Shebovsky Definitely call me if you will be in Orlando. Here is my cell: 407-383-0049. Let me know far enough i ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Definitely call me if you will be in Orlando. Here is my cell: 407-383-0049. Let me know far enough in advance so I can plan on meeting you for lunch or something. Thanks again for all your support. Can't wait to say it wasn't as bad as I thought.
On February 20, 2012...
Dr. Jeff,
You are so inspiring and ambitious. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please, feel free to contact me if you need anything.
((HUGS))
Suzanne
Jeff,
I do not get on here much anymore, but wanted to check on Kelly's status and I decided to check out a few journals. I had to send you a quick message to let you know I had surgery at Mt. Sinai in NYC on March 2, 2010 with Dr. David Adams for Miral valve repair surgery. I wanted to let you know that my experience at the hospital was positive from beginning to end. Everyone was kind and helpful. I am doing great almost two years later. Good luck and go with your gut. I almost changed my mind about surgery under the right breast versus the typical way, but my gut said stick with your plan...and I did!
Good luck,
Theresa C.
NJ
Jeffrey Shebovsky Theresa,
Thanks for writing. Great news that you are doing great! I also heard from another person wh ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Theresa,
Thanks for writing. Great news that you are doing great! I also heard from another person who had surgery at Mt. Sinai with Dr. Adams for Mitral valve repair and is also doing great and also had a great experienced at Mt. Sinai. I am indeed going with my gut feeling. It's definitely the overriding theme I have heard. I would never want to have to live with "why didn't I listen to myself". Thanks again for writing. Its nice of you to take the time and its nice to hear good things about Mt. Sinai
On February 20, 2012...
Hey Jeff,
I just learned a the sister of a friend of mine had open heart surgery in Oct. Also, valve replacement due to rheumatic fever as a child. She didn't have the Ross procedure, but also isn't on coumadin (sorry about spelling). She is doing very well!! Thinking of you and wishing you only the best!
Love,
Ellen
Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Ellen,
She had to of had a "tissue" valve then, pig or cow. Glad she is doing well. Thanks for thi ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Ellen,
She had to of had a "tissue" valve then, pig or cow. Glad she is doing well. Thanks for thinking of me.
On February 20, 2012...
Ok boys & girls - take it down a notch will ya
1st jeff.-- Some sort of reunion is always fun too bad Adam pick can't do something like that Or maybe he could ? Hnmmmm ?
2 nd
Either way dick & I will be back in Orlando again speaking there end of April. So we may get to see you-again soon anyway Look forward to that !
3 rd.
Baring the unforeseen- you will do great. Based on my ( experienced -) folks like us who go in prepared and healthy do well. Go in with your right firstfoot in first - smile - and u will do great
Talk soon Nanc
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Nancy. See how positive I am? :) I am already planning a "Union" for November since I KNOW I w ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Nancy. See how positive I am? :) I am already planning a "Union" for November since I KNOW I will do well. It's good to look ahead at a bright future. From my mantra/inspirational song: "I can see clearly now the rain has gone. It's gonna be a bright, bright, bright, bright, sunshiny day".
On February 20, 2012...
ABSOLUTELY!!!! GREAT IDEA!!!
We can all stay at your house, LOL, LOL,
LOL!!!!
Just kidding, Mrs. Jeff!
I think it's a great idea!
Linda Dixon
Jeffrey Shebovsky If you can all fit in my house you are all welcome. I doubt it though, so I will find us all a good h ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky If you can all fit in my house you are all welcome. I doubt it though, so I will find us all a good hotel :)
On February 20, 2012...
Having a Union sounds good to me.
Dan P. - WI
Jeffrey Shebovsky Great Dan. Thanks. Once I am all better and ready to tackle this, you will here more here. (My surger ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Great Dan. Thanks. Once I am all better and ready to tackle this, you will here more here. (My surgery is March 7th)
Hi Dr. Jeff
This is Gadiel Vargas from PCCF just wanted to let you know that you are an inspiration to me and to our profession. Going through this life altering experience and sharing it with the world shows transparency and courage. I hold on to the time spent in your office as a dream made into reality, and as motivation to work harder than ever to move pass the ordinary and achieve excellence. I look forward to your smooth operation and swift recovery. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Gadiel
Jeffrey Shebovsky Gadiel,
Thanks for the kind words and for your support. It means a lot. You are a great guy and will ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Gadiel,
Thanks for the kind words and for your support. It means a lot. You are a great guy and will be a great chiropractor. Our profession needs more of "YOU", in it. Call on me anytime for any help you need. Except for March 7th of course (and maybe the first 2 weeks after that) - LOL
On February 20, 2012...
Good luck and best wishes, Jeff....look at the bright side....after the surgery you'll be better than new...We will hold you in our prayers...Have a quick recovery...and and try to post as soon as you can and let us know all is fine
We love you
Good Luck
Brenda and Stuie
Jeffrey Shebovsky Brenda and Stuie,
Thanks so much. I means the world to me. All this love and support is critical. Car ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Brenda and Stuie,
Thanks so much. I means the world to me. All this love and support is critical. Carol will post with up to the minute updates and I will take over again as soon as I am able. Can't wait to write my first update post-surgery.
On February 20, 2012...
I like that you are doing homework and reading everything you can up till surgery date. I think you are wise to know all options. I had chosen port access then 3 days before surgery told doctor I changed mind and wanted old school sternotomy. He had no problem with my change. My inner voice kept whispering to me and I listened. I agree with you, go with your gut. Janis Kielbasa
Jeffrey Shebovsky Ah yes, that LITTLE voice. Thanks Janis as always, for your stellar advice. That "little voice" and t ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Ah yes, that LITTLE voice. Thanks Janis as always, for your stellar advice. That "little voice" and the "gut" can't lead you wrong. It really does come down to this. And a whole bunch of faith, prayers, positive thinking and of course some good old fashioned good luck.
On February 20, 2012...
Hello Jeff. I had my aortic valve and part of my aorta replaced in Kissimmee (Osceola Regional Medical Center) June 7th, 2011 (5 days after my 40th birthday). The surgeon who did my surgery has since moved to Pittsburgh. His name is Dr. Vinay Badhwar. He used an On-X valve because of my age and a current trial trying to prove a need for lower doses of anti-coagulant. I had an amazing experience from start to now. If you're willing to travel, I'd research him as well. I have heard wonderful things about Dr. Accola as well. Either way, I'm sure you'll do great.
All the best, you're in my thoughts and prayers.
Matt Fountain,
Sarasota FL
Jeffrey Shebovsky Matt,
Funny you mention Dr. Badhwar. I spoke with him last year when I was first told I will need sur ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Matt,
Funny you mention Dr. Badhwar. I spoke with him last year when I was first told I will need surgery. I heard GREAT things about him. He was very nice and pleasant on the phone. I have a patient, who is a cardiac care nurse, and used to work at Osceola Regional, and told me he is a great surgeon. I did hear from someone recently that he had moved to Pittsburgh. Since I am going with the Ross Procedure, it will be Dr. Stelzer (more experience with this than anyone else). Thanks for the post and I am so glad you are doing great and had such a great experience from start til now. I pray for the same.
On February 19, 2012...
Jeff, first of all, thank you for calling me a hottie!!! That made my day!!! Make that my year!!!
2nd...I so feel for you, I don't exactly feel your pain because the Ross has never been (I don't guess) an option for me. Just the decision of tissue vs mechanical is driving me crazy. I am actually feeling a little pressure to go with the tissue rather than mechanical (from Cleveland Clinic) and I don't know if that is what I want or not. I probably will because although I have taken Coumadin in the past and had no problems, I realize I am getting older (still a hottie though) and my risk of falling, etc. is greater, therefore my risk of bleeding is greater if on Coumadin. People tend to discourage you from doing something other than what THEY think is best. I know how much research you have done and as Mitch said, you have been thinking ROSS the entire time. I would not presume to offer any kind of advice, except to say don't be afraid to go with your original plan, but also if you have doubts, don't be afraid to change your mind.
I pray that the right decision will be revealed to you and that you will be at peace with it. And just remember...your HVJ friends will support you, whatever your decision.
REALLY, REALLY getting closer...Linda Dixon
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Linda. You, Janis and Nancy are like my "V" babes. Hey, not THAT "V"!! LOL. These valve cho ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Linda. You, Janis and Nancy are like my "V" babes. Hey, not THAT "V"!! LOL. These valve choices are so tough, all with pros and cons. And you are right, people tend to tell you what THEY think is best. In fact, so much of this is peoples, and surgeons, opinions. In the end we must all make our choices. I like the part about going with your "gut". We do our research and then go with our gut in the end.
I appreciate all your support and I hope we can meet one day in person.
On February 19, 2012...
You send mixed signals, sir. On the one hand you've got all the confidence in the world in Dr. Stelzer. On the other hand you still want advice from others. As Chuck Holmgreen says, "Give it a rest." Why are you knocking yourself out? Stressing yourself out can't be good.
Marc and I will visit you when it's all done.
Al
Jeffrey Shebovsky Mixed signals? Well...maybe. Big decisions are always tough and there is no black and white here. All ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Mixed signals? Well...maybe. Big decisions are always tough and there is no black and white here. All valve operations have pros and cons to them.
As you said: Homework Done. Get some rest, be confident in your decision and knock it out of the park!!
You're going to do great - you're in very good condition and you're with the best surgeon. You've done everything you can to maximize your outcome possibilities, which is something we all try.
Put your mind at ease and rest up. From what I hear, you'll need it!! Right Mitch?
Chuck Holmgreen.
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Chuck. Your support is so very much appreciated and helpful.
On February 19, 2012...
Hi Jeff. As Clinton once said, "I feel your pain." I hear you agonizing over what's to come. I told you from the beginning that you should look into St. Francis Hospital. Here’s why. Here are stats from NYS Health Dept for the years 2006-2008 (the most recent available):
In 2008, only five hospitals had lower Risk Adjusted Mortality Rates (RAMR) than the statewide average. Mt Sinai (MS) is not one of them. St. Francis Hospital (SF) is.
The RAMR is a way of putting all hospitals on a level playing field.
The MS RAMR was 2.84 while SF was 1.33, which is considered “significantly lower” than the statewide average (1.81).
MS had a total valve procedure case load of 1273 while SF had a case load of 1848
Certain procedures are isolated by type: replacement or repair.
MS repaired 47 while SF repaired 81.
MS replaced 129 while SF replaced 168.
Dr. Stelzer performed 18 procedures. Doctors at SF (there were seven) perfumed way more than that. The lowest case load for one of our doctors was 115. Dr. Stelzer’s RAMR was 2.91. All the doctors combined at SF had a RAMR of 2.45
If it's not too late, and if you’re still checking things out to get some peace of mind why not speak with the Chairman of the Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery at St. Francis Hospital, Dr. Newell Robinson.
100 Port Washington Blvd.
Roslyn, New York, 11576
Phone: 516-627-2173
The link for the above info is:
http://www.health.ny.gov/statistics/diseases/cardiovascular/heart_disease/docs/2006-2008_adult_cardiac_surgery.pdf
Al C
PS- You can mention the Brave Hearts. Dr. Robinson was our guest of honor at our last Dinner-Dance.
Jeffrey Shebovsky Al,
Thanks for the info. It comes back the surgeon. If you are going to get the Ross procedure, you' ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Al,
Thanks for the info. It comes back the surgeon. If you are going to get the Ross procedure, you'd want it done by the guy who has the most extensive experience at doing it than anyone else in the world. In fact, I read somewhere that they wanted at one point rename the procedure the Ross-Stelzer procedure due to Dr. Stelzers contributions and modifications. Also, Dr. Stelzers intraoperative mortaity rate is less than 1% (8 out of 508) and 3 of these were in the first 20. He has not lost anyone since 1998. The mortality rate for general valve operations is around 1.5%. For him to be under 1% for a more complex, longer procedure is impressive. I have spoken with several of his patients, from 3 months post surgery to 22 years and all are doing well and all love this man death. I have never been opposed to St. Francis, and if Dr. Stelzer was there that is where I would be.
As for volume, the Ross Procedure is more complex and technically challenging for the surgeon. Surgeon time takes around 5 hours. Conventional valves are around 3 hours maybe. So, you can't do as many of Ross' as standard valves. Also, there are just not that many candidates and this procedure is not recommended much so there are even less to do. Dr. Stelzer also does regular valve operations and I believe has done over 4000 of these as well.
It comes down to experience. If there is a surgeon at St. Francis that does the Ross and has done more than 500 of them, let me know.
Thanks again for your valuable feedback.
"
On February 18, 2012...
Jeff, Thanks so much for sharing your research and letting us know about healing options and for providing informative links. You have done your homework, and I know whatever surgery option you choose will be the right one. Continued prayers and good thoughts sent your way. Janis Kielbasa 7 weeks post op and doing great!!
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Janis as always. Your support really means a lot. I am 7 weeks post op and doing great too! ( ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Janis as always. Your support really means a lot. I am 7 weeks post op and doing great too! (that's me visualizing and affirming :)
On February 18, 2012...
Jeff. I am sure that outlook plays a central role in the success of your your recovery. With you outlook your surgery will be a success. I hope I wasn't out of line with my comments. Wishing you all the best
Jeff
Jeffrey Shebovsky I know that attitude and outlook are important factors. Jeff, your comments were fine and made me thi ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky I know that attitude and outlook are important factors. Jeff, your comments were fine and made me think some more. That's what attys do right? Make us think and have reasonable doubt. - LOL
Anyway, thanks for your support.
On February 18, 2012...
Hi Jeff,
It seems to me that you are comfortable with your decision and surgeon. It is important that you have that confidence as the date approaches. I found that I had a feeling of over-whelming calmness when the day approached. I was almost excited to get the show on the road already.
I do have a question about the "cold laser" treatment. What are the benefits? I think my scar is healing really well. What would I look for that would indicate the need for the treatments?
You will be amazed at how well you will do with your surgery. I am now 11 weeks and don't ever think of my journey when I am not on this site. My walking and exercise is back to pre-op and better. I went back to work at 4 weeks, but my work is not as demanding physically as yours. Wishing you the best.
Jane
Jeffrey Shebovsky Jane,
Thanks for your support. I am hoping to get to the point of calmness before surgery. The Peggy ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Jane,
Thanks for your support. I am hoping to get to the point of calmness before surgery. The Peggy Huddleston book and CD is helping me get there. As for the laser it can help with wound healing, scar thickness, malleability, pain, and help avoid a keloid scar. Here is one study:http://www.microlightcorp.com/technology/studies/#post_surgical_pain
If you are healing well, then I probably wouldn't worry about it at this point.
So glad you are doing so well. I wish I were on the other side already and doing great like you.
On February 18, 2012...
Brother, you are doing the right thing. Doing your homework, getting smart and getting comfortable with your decision. That is what intelligent people do. So, continue to weight all the facts. The most recent Dr. was spot on, there are no wrong decisions here. It is a matter of what your gut tells you.
You have been focused on the Ross procedure since day one. That seems to be your calling. You met Dr. Seltzer, you know you are comfortable. Put this aside for a day or so, hug your loved ones and the right decision will come to (if you are still not sure). If you know what you want, then go with that and never look back. Your fill fly through this and before you know it, you will be fixed. A truly good feeling.
I'm here for you bro, let me know how I can help.
-Mitch Friedman
Jeffrey Shebovsky Mitch,
You told me from day one to be comfortable with my decision. It's hard to be comfortable with ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Mitch,
You told me from day one to be comfortable with my decision. It's hard to be comfortable with ANY decision when it comes to your life and open heart surgery, especially with the all the pros and cons with all of these procedures. I am doing my best to get comfortable but there is always some doubt looming. Some days I am sure about my decision and others not so sure. One day at a time I guess. Thanks!
Wishing the very best for you, and keep us update on your status, because we want to see you back on the field, on what you do best for our group which is pitching and some good hitting with RBI.
and remember you have a good strong arm to go 9 innings.
and you know what I'm going to say, LOL