Regarding your 2/12 post on your baseball game...it's still softball if you throw the baseball underhand to the batter...lol.
The Swider's are on your site and here for you.
Jeffrey Shebovsky Very funny! I may not throw too fast but it is overhand. Thanks for your support.
On February 17, 2012...
Well Jeff...if stress messes with your adrenals...mine are toast! It seems between my husband's illness and death, my heart problem, retiring from work (it's not all it's cracked up to be) and now surgery...stress has been my middle name for the last 9 years!
This makes perfect sense to me, stress and cortisol levels have been linked for years. And you are right, I too have noticed the fatigue complaints, even from those who didn't have symptoms prior to surgery...and this is pretty major surgery...like the biggest!!
REALLY getting closer...Linda Dixon
Jeffrey Shebovsky Linda, do what you can to support your adrenals. Read up on that site link I sent and take the quiz t ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Linda, do what you can to support your adrenals. Read up on that site link I sent and take the quiz that is on there
On February 17, 2012...
Jeff....please be careful with any supplements you take. Check with your cardiologist and surgeon before taking them because they can interact with some of the meds you will be on when you go home (and you will be on a lot of them!)
Deb Z.
Hi Jeff,
I read your note about feeling GREAT right now. Same boat for me. I am scheduled for pulmonary valve replacement Cleveland Clinic with Dr. Stewart 3/15/12. Feel super, work-out, no symptoms. Work with patients as an occupational therapist.
I am staying positive and starting to explore Peggy Huddlestons theories for pre-surgical preparedness. We're not in this alone. Stephanie Cole
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks for writing Stephanie. I actually just started reading Peggy Huddelston's book and I have the ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks for writing Stephanie. I actually just started reading Peggy Huddelston's book and I have the CD's. Great stuff! Best of luck to you. My date is March 7th.
On February 17, 2012...
Jeff. All,good info as u have heard. Proud of ya bro! Totally convinced as well the attititude does wonders too. Great combination Being blessed with meeting new folks ( ok yea like u). Was a big help.
You'll ace this easy. Please let me know how long u might be gone from fla - so we can coordinate a few things.
Be well. Hugs. NANc
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Nancy. I will be gone from FL from March 5 probably for 2 weeks thru the 19th
On February 17, 2012...
So, good looking, witty and smart too! I knew I liked you for a reason. Great info about the mechanics of what we are going through. I have found if you give into your body's need to nap it makes a HUGE difference. Even the short 20 minute cat naps. Plus, frequent eating is a big help too, especially I'm the early stages of recovery when you have a limited appetite.
Thanks for all the advice. Speak soon.
-Mitch Friedman
Jeffrey Shebovsky Yes the naps are key. 20-30 min. The 2-4pm time especially. Everyone should do it regardless of wheth ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Yes the naps are key. 20-30 min. The 2-4pm time especially. Everyone should do it regardless of whether or not they've had surgery. Also, in bed by 10pm is Dr. Wilson's suggestion and try to sleep til 9. I know, not practical for real life but thats the recommendation to help adrenals recover. And the quicker we can get off these meds the better. And get on some good natural support for our bodies.
On February 17, 2012...
Jeff,
Thank you for the information on the cold laser therapy and the adrenal/cortisol relationship. I've recently read about that and it was very informative to read your information as well.
How did your last opinion meeting go?
Chuck Holmgreen
Jeffrey Shebovsky Glad you found it helpful Chuck. Seeing another surgeon today at 1.
On February 16, 2012...
Hi Jeffrey
Coming from a 3X heart surgery, sternotomy each time I totally agree, respect and encourage getting other opinions. Age 39,45 and 59, respectfully having an Atrial Septal Defect repair, Mitral Valve Repair with eventual Mitral Valve Replacement. It is a BIG deal especially to someone who feels healthy and able to participate at the level that you describe. I wish you the best and if there is anything I can do for you let me know.
Susan Vandenbussche
North Carolina
Jeffrey Shebovsky WOW! Susan 3 OHS. I admire your strength. Getting another opinion tomorrow. How do you feel now and ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky WOW! Susan 3 OHS. I admire your strength. Getting another opinion tomorrow. How do you feel now and when was your last one done?
On February 16, 2012...
On your Feb 12th post you noted that you pitched 7 innings but I did not hear if you were standing 60 feet or 90 feet from homeplate. Ha ha! After your surgery, you may be able to go the whole nine and complete your first perfect game. Ha ha! Just wanted you to know I was thinking about you. Take care!
David Schindler
Jeffrey Shebovsky Actually 60 feet 6 inches wise guy! :) But maybe you should have asked if it was 30 feet away. Of co ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Actually 60 feet 6 inches wise guy! :) But maybe you should have asked if it was 30 feet away. Of course that that distance my velocity would be (or at least appear) twice as fast. Thanks for writing David.
On February 16, 2012...
Just wanted to wish you the very best. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.We will be checking in with your mom and dad to keep informed. Good luck. Gail and David
Jeffrey Shebovsky Gail and David,
Thanks so much. You can also keep informed right here. My wife will post in real time ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Gail and David,
Thanks so much. You can also keep informed right here. My wife will post in real time what is going up right through surgery and recovery. At the top of the "My Journal" page is a button you can click on to be alerted each time a new post is made
On February 15, 2012...
Jeffrey,
It is 19 days until my OHS. I feel the same way. My doctor said I shouldn't be working out with the trainer until I had surgery and advised me against taking a trip to Brazil. I have absolutely no symptoms.
My doctor convinced me that I needed the heart cath and surgery ASAP so I scheduled in Dec. Unfortunately the heart cath resulted in a blood clot in my right leg so surgery was postponed. Still no symptoms. I am still waiting so feel sure it wasn't as big of an emergency as indicated. Plus, I have to pay 3000 deductible for 2011 and 2012. Oh well, guess you can't take a chance with your health.
Good luck with your procedure. I think the anticipation is probably the worst part.
Jan Beale
Jeffrey Shebovsky Jan,
Thanks for writing. I am now 20 days away. We seem to be in the same boat. I wish you the best o ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Jan,
Thanks for writing. I am now 20 days away. We seem to be in the same boat. I wish you the best of luck. Please keep me posted. PS. I have a 10K deductible so don't feel so bad! LOL
On February 15, 2012...
I keep forgetting to put my name its claire tunmore :)
Jeff, i felt exactly the same. I was working out until a couple of days before my surgery. So many times it went though my head why me i feel fine but as someone else said in your journal there are warning signs which we chose to ignore. Looking back i know i wasnt right for a long time. Im 2 weeks post op and because we are fit going into this i have bounced backed quicker than i thought possible and so will you. It wasnt half as bad as i thought it would be and im surprised how good i feel. If i can go shopping at the mall and get my nails done - not bad eh?? (i know you wnt be wanting to those things!)
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks. So encouraging to hear. As for getting my nails done, I'll pass on that BUT I must admit, I a ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks. So encouraging to hear. As for getting my nails done, I'll pass on that BUT I must admit, I am a shopper. LOL
Who is this anyway?
On February 15, 2012...
Hi Jeff. I completely agree with your recent journal post applauding Adam Pick for creating this online community of "valvers." I'm joining you in making a donation. It's totally out of character for me to do what I've done: start my online patient journal. (By way of example, I have steadfastly refused to join facebook, despite my family's repeated attempts to lure me in). I created my heart valve journal last week so that Donna, my wife, and I could easily communicate with family and friends before, during, and after my surgery. I did not expect that I'd make online connections with many new friends who are on a similar journey. And thanks to Mitch Friedman for connecting you and me. I hope to see you at Mt. Sinai in the interlude between your surgery and mine.
Peace and Blessings
Jim Smith
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Jim. I have avoided facebook too. I am on it but don't do much as I do not want to get sucked ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Jim. I have avoided facebook too. I am on it but don't do much as I do not want to get sucked in. As for this site, it is like a facebook for valve people, as I have said in a prior post. It is been a great blessing. Thanks for considering a contribution. When I see a good thing, I alwways want to make it better. I do hope we can meet at Mt. Sinai.
On February 14, 2012...
Hi Jeff. My name is Jeff too. I never knew what was wrong with me. I found out i had aortic insufficiency in June and had surgery in August . I had some symptoms I never connected to my condition. You may too and not know it. The symptoms may be very subtle since you are very active and this helps keep you balanced so no one thing gets you down thus you feel like you have no symptoms but believe me you body has sent you signals. I don't really know you obviously but I think from a few posts I read you would be able to be in denial because you could still push super max and pitch 7 innings and get 5 hits so how could you possibly be sick. Even though you have known for 30 years you had a heart condition. They were there But as a dr you are realistic. What's the most common thing you hear from your patients? ". I didn't think it was anything". Or ". I thought it would go away on its own". Now dr Jeff it's time for you to be the patient. You have learned alot about how others have dealt with their illnesses and then surgery and recovery but when the time comes it will be all you. And take it from me. Being in great shape physically and mentally is the best thing you can do to get ready. Like preparing for a big race. Or you board exam. Just another big test. And I have posted my experience with pain post surgically was primarily due to the rearranging of my anatomy when they spread open your ribs for 5 hours. Terrible pain in the rib heads. Then the shoulders. Did alot of body work and Accupuncture and just now feeling better with the shoulders. But I tore my bicep tendon ( long head) curling 10 lbs last month. Go figure. Basically, it's a Beaych getting old. But it beats being dead. For sure. And one more thing. Don't walk towards the white light. And my ,02. Get the tissue valve and don't get the Ross unless you absolutely have to. Jeff Pheffer.
Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Jeff,
Thanks for your post. Great info! I replied back at more length on your journal. Check it ou ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Hi Jeff,
Thanks for your post. Great info! I replied back at more length on your journal. Check it out. Thanks again.
Jeff
On February 13, 2012...
Jeff - I know exactly how you feel thinking about having surgery when you feel as if there is nothing wrong with you. Though I am quite a bit older than you, I was able to do anything physically I wanted to do but was told I needed to have mitral valve repair before it got to the point where my heart would be damaged w/o the surgery. I am now 4 weeks post op (I did have robotic surgery) and I am walking a mile a day on my treadmill and working out on my weight machine - although much easier than pre surgery. I feel well enough that I could do more but I don't want to push it. Point is, you will be back doing what you are doing now after your surgery and w/o the dread of future problems. Stay focussed on the positive and you will have all of this behind you before you know it.
Dick Miller
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Dick. I know i need to do this. Just hate it! Got to avoid any heart muscle damage! So glad y ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Dick. I know i need to do this. Just hate it! Got to avoid any heart muscle damage! So glad you ate doing well post surgery. Can't wait til I can write that too
On February 13, 2012...
Jeffrey,
As I'm sure you know, surgery in an asymptomatic patient is a difficult decision but you are doing the right thing. I was also asymptomatic before my mitral valve repair in June, and in excellent physical condition. I know it speeded up my recovery. I didn't have the struggle I have seen some patients report in these journals. I got my valve repired before any damage was done to my heart and I am very glad I didn't wait, even though I was told I could. Now it's done and I feel great!
Vicki Pierson
Jeffrey Shebovsky Vicki,
Thanks. I know it is so true and you are right. THAT is the main reason to do it now, to not w ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Vicki,
Thanks. I know it is so true and you are right. THAT is the main reason to do it now, to not wait for heart muscle damage. I am so glad you are doing great. Thanks for writing.
On February 13, 2012...
I kind of understand how you feel. 2 years ago I had a Melanoma removed from my left tricep area. I felt fine, no pain, no discomfort. I was working out 6 days a week, working 5 days a week, traveling every other month, yet here I was, booking myself into the hospital to have life saving surgery---crazy!!
Jeffrey Shebovsky Yes that is crazy! But that is how the body works. Symptoms are, many times, the last this to come on ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Yes that is crazy! But that is how the body works. Symptoms are, many times, the last this to come on. I see that all the time with spinal conditions. Thanks for the post, WHOEVER you are.
On February 13, 2012...
Wishing you and your all the best and a speedy recovery.
Dude, you are so fit and athletic now is the time. Your fitness may be masking symptoms. Wait until they appear and you may already have undergone cardiac remodeling enough to make a difference. Focus on the fact that you are giving your family the gift of you for many, many years to come. And - you are going to absolutely rule out there on the field! -- DVB
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks. What better focus to have! Forgive me, who is "DVB" again?
On February 12, 2012...
Hi Jeff,
I thought I felt fine before surgery, but now think differently, because I feel better than ever. You will also. It just sucks that you have to go through a lot to get there. I feel confident that you will pass with flying colors. We are all here for you.
Jane
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Jane. Like I said I might not even notice it. I think sometimes I get too out of breath with c ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Jane. Like I said I might not even notice it. I think sometimes I get too out of breath with certain things. Like going up stairs. Or running the bases in baseball. It's not real bad and I am not sure if it if normal or not. Guess I will be able to tell better after surgery.
On February 12, 2012...
I totally understand how you feel. I had the same feelings at times, because I felt great, was in great shape and no symptoms. But I came to realize that it was a big advantage rather than a negative. Being in very good shape gives us a leg-up on taking on the surgery. Plus, it is extremely helpful in recovery.
Keep doing what you are doing and this bump in the road will be over before you it and you will again be mowing down those young whipper-snappers. I almost feel sorry for them. Chin music baby!!!
JH
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks JH, you always have the right things to say and are always so upbeat. I will keep myself stron ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks JH, you always have the right things to say and are always so upbeat. I will keep myself strong going in and hope to be strong on the back side of this too. Hope you are still doing well. Love that "chin music" reference. LOL
On February 12, 2012...
Your comments about feeling great and asymptomatic are thought provoking to me. I feel great! I have pretty much the same diagnosis you do. I will turn 57 tommorrow. I work out 4-5 days a week with either my trainer, swim laps, etc. It was very hard for me to cut back to 20 lb. weights though. I have more energy than my 20 year old daughter! I taught for 34 years until taking early retirement last June. I think the only thing I noticed is that when they put me on a beta blocker about 3 years ago to take pressure off the valve it seemed to make me a little more tired. I've been up to Mayo-Rochester and they say that my measurements for still ok.
I will be thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers. I will be following your before, during, and after surgery progress.
Carol J
Jeffrey Shebovsky Carol J,
Thanks for writing. Glad to hear you are still doing OK with your measurements. I know that ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Carol J,
Thanks for writing. Glad to hear you are still doing OK with your measurements. I know that my measurements are severe (borderline) and I know that if I keep waiting I can get irreversible heart muscle damage. Like Janis' surgeon put is so eloquently "there's a storm coming". Nicely put and says a lot. Sort of like the calm before the storm. Guess I have to head off that storm. Keep in touch and thanks for following me.
Jeff
On February 12, 2012...
Jeff, I forgot to sign my name. The entry below is mine.
Love you,
Marcia
Does senility begin like this?
Jeffrey Shebovsky Marcia,
It figures it was YOU that wrote that! LOL
Yes senility starts like that. And with you sendi ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Marcia,
It figures it was YOU that wrote that! LOL
Yes senility starts like that. And with you sending this same post TWICE asking about your senility.:)
Jeff
On February 12, 2012...
I hear you Jeff, loud and clear. I'm so sorry you have to be going though all this .... The truth is, and you know it, that your great physical condition, is your greatest asset going into the surgery. It will assure you a fast, unremarkable, complete recover.
Now let me review your baseball stats for a moment. You pitched 7 innings (never told us how many runs you gave up). Got on base 5 times (never saying you scored) and I for one want to know how old the other players were.
Jeffrey Shebovsky HA! HA! 2 earned. 8 K's I think. 2 for 2 with 3 walks. 1 RBI. 3 runs scored. 21 year olds :)
Now, wh ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky HA! HA! 2 earned. 8 K's I think. 2 for 2 with 3 walks. 1 RBI. 3 runs scored. 21 year olds :)
Now, who is this? You did not sign your name.
On February 12, 2012...
I can't pitch 7 innings and older than you but felt the same way. The surgeon said, hey a storm is coming your way...what are you going to do? Growing up in Illinois tornado alley, I knew the answer was not waiting it out. LOL. By fixing it now...you won't be a walking time bomb. You are in shape, young, healthy otherwise so best success is yours. I'm 54, did not work out, have RA and my recovery is going great. I was home alone at 2 weeks, driving at 4 weeks and walking 1 to 2 miles a day at 6 weeks. Plus, fear is gone because I am fixed/repaired. You will do great, Jeff!! Added bonus, you have all of us sending good thoughts and prayers your way!! Janis Kielbasa
Jeffrey Shebovsky Janis,
The "storm is coming your way" and the tornado analogy are very helpful. Thanks. I am looking ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Janis,
The "storm is coming your way" and the tornado analogy are very helpful. Thanks. I am looking forward to getting fixed and being better than ever!
On February 12, 2012...
Welcome to my world. Now as your friend, I have to say, lose that attitude pal. It will not serve you during recovery. Truthfully, what I found helped during the days you are in is this...now symptoms, but you know stuff is broken inside = amazing super human powers when you are fixed and through recovery. I mean we have to be better, stronger and faster if we get fixed and the limitations that we do not realize we have are gone. Rght????? At least that is what I am telling myself, will let you know if it is true, well after your surgery that is. For now, believe it, drink the Kool Aid and know your down time won't be so bad or so long.
Now go work out double for the both of us while I am in recovery and you have a few more weeks.
Jeff, I feel your pain! That is exactly how I feel. Sometimes, I also wish I had some major symptoms, would sure make this easier to accept. I know...I don't want symptoms, but this is like...how do I know I REALLY need to do this???? But...I guess we have to trust somebody, just wish it didn't have to be a cardiothoracic surgeon, lol.
Try not to think about it so much says Linda, the one who can't think of anything else!!
I know that you know the answer is: Have the surgery to make sure you don't get symptoms. Trust me, I do not have a physically demanding job and I'm physically exhausted at the end of the day. No fun. I can't even run far enough hanging on to my son's bike seat to help him get rid of the training wheels.
I'm looking for that to be OVER!! I'm going to run circles around everyone when this is over.
Please don't wish for symptoms!! However, I can completely understand your state of mind. I wouldn't want surgery without symptoms either.
Chuck Holmgreen.
Jeffrey Shebovsky "I know Chuck, I am very lucky to be without symptoms. I hear stories like yours a lot. Surely, if I ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky "I know Chuck, I am very lucky to be without symptoms. I hear stories like yours a lot. Surely, if I had symptoms, I'd want to have the surgery and move on and look forward to doing so much I haven't done or enjoyed. I think sometimes I have SOME symptoms, but if I do it's so minor I can hardly tell. Anyway, I was just venting. I basically feel too good to be having this surgery. But I also know, if I wait I could get damage to the heart muscle. Guess my heart is still compensating well. But, it can only do that for so long. Thanks Chuck."
On February 12, 2012...
Dr. Jeff, I'm very pleased to hear the decisions are made and the mental aspect of this is now in the rear view. I spent the better half of the day reading through all your posts and guestbook entries on your journal, which took me awhile and it just confirms several things for me. First, after meeting Carol at the last Knights meeting, Theresa and I are sure there is no one stronger to help you through your recovery and this process. We see it when your together and hear it in your posts, she is also very strong and will be fine. Second, the more I listen, the more I realize you are like a long lost brother to me and I find great comfort in how much we are alike. So, having said that, please put the scalpel down on surgery day and allow the surgeon to do the work.... Take a day off.... We love ya brother and I know you will be fine. I will be following throughout and we will miss you in Cancun.
Dr. Harris.
Jeffrey Shebovsky RJ,
Thanks so much. This means a lot. I copied and sent this to Carol as well. It is true, we are so ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky RJ,
Thanks so much. This means a lot. I copied and sent this to Carol as well. It is true, we are so much alike. I have thought that so many times. I am so sad to miss Cancun, I was looking so forward to it. I WILL be at the next meeting in the fall though and can't wait to join you guys. I'm sure it won't be as nice as a Cancun meeting but just being around you guys makes me a better person.
On February 10, 2012...
Jeff,
I just wanted to wish you the best. You helped me through a painful episode in my life and I appreciate all that you have done for me. I guess we all need help at some time or another. Good luck with your surgery. I will be thinking about you. Take care!
David Schindler
Jeffrey Shebovsky David, thanks so much for writing. I appreciate it very much.
On February 10, 2012...
Hey Jeff. This is just a pit-stop along the road of life to get the engine tuned up. 6 months down the road you'll be amazed how good you feel and how great an idea it was to get the work done! By the way, what have been your best research sources? Mine were: AHA/ACC Guidelines for management of valvular disease, Braunwald's Cardiology textbook, and various journal articles on therapies vs outcomes. -- DVB
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks! I will check out these resources. Been looking at so much, its hard to tell at this point wh ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks! I will check out these resources. Been looking at so much, its hard to tell at this point where all the info came from
On February 10, 2012...
Wishing you only the best, the Millers are always thinking of you.
Craig
The real challenge won't be the surgery, it will be the recovery. And the toughest part will no doubt be for Carole who has the wifely role of telling you when you're doing too much and need to stop. The Rictor family will be praying for you the whole way through!
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks to a one of a kind family who are not only great patients but great friends
On February 9, 2012...
My thoughts, prayers and best wishes go with you, Dr. Jeff, as you travel to NYC to undergo this important surgery. in the next few days. Blessings, (Rev) John Painter
HI, Jeff. Shirley and John Schultz here. We read all your posts and were amazed at all the decisions you have to make. Looks like you have your "eyes on the prize" and are well prepared. We also looked at the pictures of you and your lovely family. So much waiting for you and your quick recovery! Blessings from our house to yours, good luck and God bless. We're sure you will come through with flying colors! We'll keep reading your posts and your wife's posts to keep up with your progress. We're all pulling for a record quick recovery.
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks so much for the kind words. You two are very special patients and great people
On February 9, 2012...
I thought the email address tells you who is writing. I see that's not true. Anyway, that was me at Lake Powell.
Al C
Jeffrey Shebovsky I thought it did too initially and so do a lot of people. You have to sign your name at the bottom or ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky I thought it did too initially and so do a lot of people. You have to sign your name at the bottom or I don't know who it is. Thanks Al
On February 9, 2012...
Hi Jeff,
I just recently posted to Janis that I could not believe that I thought about my surgery in some way 24/7 and now 9 weeks later I never think about it if I am not on this site.
I live in a very close suburb to the city. I would be more than happy to do what ever you or your family might need when you are here. I can offer housing if you need it pre and post op.
I promise that the waiting is the worst part.
Jane
Jeffrey Shebovsky Jane,
This is great news! Thanks. I can't wait to be 9 weeks post op and NOT think about it. I apprec ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Jane,
This is great news! Thanks. I can't wait to be 9 weeks post op and NOT think about it. I appreciate the offer but I have accommodations at my aunt and uncle in NJ for a week post op before going home to Florida. SO nice of you to offer.
On February 9, 2012...
Well, now I feel better that I didn't have the luxury of all that research, research and research. I was vacationing in Lake Powell armed with nitro-glycerine tablets. After a boating a whole day on our own rented boat in and out of canyons, it hit. Trying to walk up the hill (I was climbing out of a canyon, after all) to the boathouse, I was popping tablets about every 100 yards.
Needless to say, I made it back to NY and went for an angiogram. The doctor would not let me go home. (He knew I never would have returned). I had my surgery the next day. No time to fret. No time to think about it. No second opinions. No time to become a "self-made surgeon." Wham, bam, thank you m'am. And the rest is history.
It's been 10 years and its still ticking. I won't say stop worrying (that's like saying don't be hungry) but rest assured that everything will be alright. These procedures are practically routine these days. And you have one of the best doctors working on you (the other one is at St. Francis) so just go on with your life. Why not put this journal on hiatus until after the big day?
Jeffrey Shebovsky "Not sure who this is, you didn't sign your name but thanks. Sounds like you had a heart attack/block ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky "Not sure who this is, you didn't sign your name but thanks. Sounds like you had a heart attack/blocked coronary. Fortunately, with this valve condition, and no symptoms. I have time to investigate and decide. Putting the valve journal aside until after? That would be tough. It's both addictive and helpful. Maybe I do need to cut back a bit though :). Thanks again."
On February 9, 2012...
Hi Jeff:
You may not remember me but I am Carol's cousin Tanya from Baltimore. Carol and I used to spend summers together in WVA when we were younger or we visited the Haleski's when they lived in Boonsboro, MD. a long time ago. My parents are Mary and Vince Butta and we were all at your wedding at the Country Club in NY years ago.
I recently "liked" your practice's Facebook page and came across your Journal entry today.
I think that you are very courageous and I know things will work out for the best after the surgery. My husband Jerry and I live with my daughter Rebecca in Bel Air, Maryland so I wanted to let you know that when you go to New York for your surgery we are not that far away if you would need anything! I mean anything! I grew up with Carol and all of the Haleski's in Wheeling and I consider them all close family. So, again if you need anything at all please don't feel bad asking. That is what family is for!!
Much love, luck, and hugs to you and I will follow the rest of your journey through your journal.
Give my best to Carol and the rest of your beautiful family.
God Bless!!
Tanya Jones (Butta) XOXO
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks so much! That is very nice of you. I will pass this along to Carol and family. Thanks again. ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks so much! That is very nice of you. I will pass this along to Carol and family. Thanks again. :)
On February 9, 2012...
Hi Dr. Jeff, I want to wish you All the Success in your upcoming heart valve surgery, I will pray to God for your quick road to Recovery !
Best Regards and keep me posted !
Jeffrey Shebovsky I should start signing "getting closer" too. I'll have you know though. Chris Dixon jumped right in f ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky I should start signing "getting closer" too. I'll have you know though. Chris Dixon jumped right in front of me and took my date :)
On February 9, 2012...
I know bro. I know. I'm completely consumed with this too. I find myself neglecting work and putting things off. I go from feeling good about everything to getting that pit in my stomach. I know there's no point in getting worked up but easier said.. We're both healthy guys and we have age and strength on our side with no comorbities. This will be ancient history soon and you'll do great I just know it. I'm going to Stelzer next week so I'll give him another good look-over for you and Carol.
Stay strong for your beautiful family,
Chris Dixon
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Man. We are so similar in our conditions and lives. I just sent you MORE stuff. Been at it for ... Read more
Jeffrey Shebovsky Thanks Man. We are so similar in our conditions and lives. I just sent you MORE stuff. Been at it for like another 2 hours!! Grrrr! Work, what work?!
On February 8, 2012...
Great idea Jeff, I will do the same! We know first hand how much Adam has done, for all of us really, and he doesn't hesitate to get involved in our search for experienced surgeons, readily uses his connections on our behalf.
BTW, have you heard from Mitch today? Wondering if he got to go home.Good luck on your visit with Dr. Accola on Friday.
Hi Jeff,
I already made a donation, but I realize it was way too small an amount. If I was to calculate an amount by how much help and support I got, it would be a huge donation. I will surely donate again. Thanks for putting it out there.
Jane
Jeffrey Shebovsky I agree 100%. A price cannot be out on what this site does for us
On February 7, 2012...
Absolutely Jeff. Inave made donations to the other sites that have helped - & will do the same for this one. Thx for getting the ball rolling ! Nancy
( pretty soon). 2-9. Avr. Best. N