Lynn Ennis posted a note for Jim that says:
Jim, I am thinking a lot about you today. You are on deck. I am right behind you. It's all very sobering, no? How did we get on the same team here? Nothing to do now but try and win the play off! I like your prep work....I find myself remembering Paris and Venice in such a vivid way- nice images to take along. Busy is good. I think a lot about how to be more patient and deal with frustration. Pain is just pain and can be dealt with. Compassion, Empathy, love are very noble. We will both get out of the deep water and swim to the surface and be fine. It's all quite amazing. Go well these next 4 weeks and be mentally strong.
Jim Jones Hey Lynn
Thank you. You too! It is sobering. I think in some ways it is also good. When you face your ... Read more
Jim Jones Hey Lynn
Thank you. You too! It is sobering. I think in some ways it is also good. When you face your mortality you can put things in perspective in good ways. When you face your fears and complete the task it makes you stronger. I wish in some ways that I was 20 so that I could take what I learn and use it for many, many decades ( rather than just many decades!). It sort of strips down things to their essence. Of course, let's be real, I will always be type A, maybe just kinder and gentler!
Agree on Europe and on being busy. We have great photos and I am booked solid till we leave for NYC. Lynn, you will do great! Please remind your husband to make sure he plans your celebratory 2014 European jaunt!!!
On October 5, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Jim that says:
Jim, for me it turned out my surgery and recovery have not been easy, but have not been as tough as I thought they would be. Hardest part was the waiting. So far looking back, the mental stress of waiting was more challenging than even my surgery and the days right after. Somewhat like your situation, I was lucky to be very busy at work just before we left for my surgery. Being busy was good.
Jim Jones Jeff
Thanks! It is pretty amazing to think that the waiting is the toughest part. Of course, while we ... Read more
Jim Jones Jeff
Thanks! It is pretty amazing to think that the waiting is the toughest part. Of course, while we wait we worry about how tough the surgery and recovery will be and we worry about possible complications. Thanks much for the reassurance. I agree mentally busy is best. Physical exercise is good also. It doesn't have to be high intensity.
Jeff, how many weeks has it been for you and how are you feeling?
On October 5, 2013...
Chris K posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim:
I am not sure if you are having a full sternotomy or a partial one, or one of the new minimally invasive procedures that they can sometimes do. I had a full sternotomy to replace my bicuspid aortic valve and am 8 weeks post surgery.
As others have said, a good support system from family and friends makes a huge difference. There is so much you can't do the first couple of weeks home.
The best thing we did was to rent an electric lift chair for the first month. You can move it to different positions, from a bed-like position, to a sitting position, to a standing position. You can get really sore sitting in the same position in regular chair and it is sometimes hard to get out of a chair. I also used it for sleeping during the first week because it was too painful to get in and out of bed.
I got a wedge pillow to help my sleeping in bed. It keeps you partially upright and with pillows on either side it prevents you from rolling over onto your side.
We had a hand held shower installed and got a shower stool from the Red Cross. I only needed the stool for the first week.
I found reading about other fellow HVJrs experiences really helpful and especially to be prepared for ups and downs on your post surgery recovery journey.
You are in great condition and that should help a lot.
Best of luck!
Jim Jones Chris
Thanks so much! Great advice. I am thinking that the first 30 days will be my hardest work ment ... Read more
Jim Jones Chris
Thanks so much! Great advice. I am thinking that the first 30 days will be my hardest work mentally and physically. It seems folks turn the corner in the second month based on what I have been reading. Thank you for sharing what helps the most during the recovery phase! How are you doing?
On October 4, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Jim that says:
Everybody's giving you some great advice. Get some BOOST protein drink. You may not have much of an appetite for awhile, so the more protein you can get the quicker you can heal. It's been 3 weeks, I sneeze every day and have no pain. Be sure and have a banana in the morning. Low potassium can really make you feel tired. Eggs are good, too. I started taking in extra protein a week before surgery.
Lotsa walking and let people help you reach, grab, lift etc. so you don't hurt yourself and your sternum heals quickly.
No strip clubs for at least 4 weeks, and no lap dances until 6 weeks or so.
Medical marijuana is not a good substitute for pain meds. Stick with your Vicodin and then go down to Tylenol before weening yourself off completely.
Laxatives, stool softener, warm prune juice and probiotics or yogurt are all good friends.
Use your spirometer a lot.
Listen to your body. Sleep as much as possible, that's when your body really heals.
Jim Jones Ern-dog
Got it. Clubs, dancing, weed out. Prunes and stool softener in. (and I am doing this why????) ... Read more
Jim Jones Ern-dog
Got it. Clubs, dancing, weed out. Prunes and stool softener in. (and I am doing this why????)
Great advice, Ernie. It all goes on now what is a long list. Thanks, big guy.
On October 3, 2013...
Barry Stone posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim Jones, Haven't been on the HVJ Site for quite a while. Had mitral valve repair 3-11-2011. Not a life long runner like you, but in my early 60s ventured into endurance athletics and started being called a master athlete. Was reasonably fit before surgery. Really learned a lot. My measure of cardiac rehab graduation was completing the Marine Corps Marathon 7 1/2 months after open heart surgery. How'd I get there. First, minimally invasive surgery with a DaVinci Robot at Cleveland Clinic was a huge start. Reading Ellen Charnley's book, Living Life to the Full, she made from her journals of her recovery from open heart surgery helped, too. She completed Ironman AZ 8 months after her surgery. As soon as I was awake after surgery I started moving as much as possible, out of the bed and eating sitting in a chair for starters ASAP, ASAP, with help of staff and family, did a first walk around the ward. That walk was slow. Then, as soon and as much as they would let me, I was doing laps, walking, around the ward. Had surgery on Friday and was discharged early afternoon on Monday. Walked a little that evening. Next day I walked a couple to four blocks from the hotel. Next day walked a lot more, maybe 3 miles plus. When I got to luggage pickup at the Albuquerque Airport I was itching to try a little easy running and when I thought no one was looking, I sorta jogged easily from the back to the front at the luggage carousel...got caught and chastised. Next day started walking every day, maybe 3 or 4 miles first day and within 3 or 4 days up to 6 miles. Within a couple weeks wore out the big Hound Dog with a 13.1 mile walk by the river (Rio Grande). I guess I was running easy at about three weeks or so and riding my bike. Started swimming easy as soon as all the wounds were fully healed. Started Cardiac Rehab at U of NM Hospital Caridac rehab close to mid April, the week before doing Tri of the Rim, a Sprint Tri, at Durango, CO, followed by a 5K run (hard) a week later, the first of May. The cardiac rehab program was very progressive. I understand, I know that not all cardiac rehab programs are aggressive, but these guys are exercise scientists (I am one now) and they are familiar with the latest science and cardiac rehab, could be the best in the country for all I know. I had cardio (treadmill, stationary cycle, and hand cycle) three days a week and eventually weights were added. Spent about 2 hours at rehab 3 times a week. Also, started the Albuquerque Fit running program about the first of May, a program of training that can lead up to a Marathon. I did two track workouts (intervals) with them each week, one evening run with them with hills, usuall one 3.3 mile lap, but sometimes more, and each week a long run on Sat that gradually gets longer throughout the season. I did a couple more 5 Ks in late June and in July, another Sprint tri in early Aug, a 1/2 Marathon mid Aug, a 1/2 Marathon (three of my kids (daughters) trained and ran it with me) mid sept, and the graduation, the full Marathon in DC at the end of Oct. I'm not a strong athlete, but I was reasonably fit before the event. My sutures and such needed to heal and recover, but the rest of my body was healthy. I also joined Ironheart Racing (http://ironheartfoundation.org/ironheartracing/) and cardiacathletes.com. I wore the ironheart jersey with my girls at that 1/2 Marathon and at the MCM, and wore the cardiac athletes singlet at the Air Force Marathon a couple weeks ago. From a Ironheart Racing video ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wU0nuUaTvo) there was a tune phrase that started playing in my head over and over and over until I finished MCM, the phrase that goes something like "...everybody gets knocked down, how quick you gonna get-up..." So, maybe from this summary of this veteran's rehab (I'm a military vet, too), you can get some insight. ....Barry on the mountain in NM. ...you can find my old journals on HVJ by searching NM or my name, Barry Stone. Good Luck!
Jim Jones Barry
A wonderful story and a great, great example. Thanks for your tips. I will follow your example. ... Read more
Jim Jones Barry
A wonderful story and a great, great example. Thanks for your tips. I will follow your example. You have really accepted the challenge and discovered the incredible joy of endurance competition. It is a blast isn't it. Keep it up, Barry!
On October 3, 2013...
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12 posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim, The posts below this one are pretty good. When I came home, I started walking around the house for a few days and several times a day. The next day I would try and do a little more. The key is to listen to your body. It will let you know when to stop. After about a week I ventured outside for short walks. Try and stay around positive people. I was lucky and my church group supplied us with dinner for a whole week, had so much food but so good. In a few weeks ventured out in the car for a short ride to store. I took advantage of the electric carts. Your pillow will be your best friend. Hold onto it for everything. I still sleep with mine. Your appetite will be off for a while that is from all the anthestics during surgery and your mind will not be the best either, but it will come back. Work with the spirometer a lot to and take all your pain meds they do help. My doctor gave me Tramadol and it works real well. Just remember you will have just gone thru a major trauma in your life, but it will be getting better each day. I will keep you in my prayers and good luck to you and your family.
Jim Jones Linda
Wonderful detail. Thank you so much! So tell me, how do I get your church group to drive to Wel ... Read more
Jim Jones Linda
Wonderful detail. Thank you so much! So tell me, how do I get your church group to drive to Wellesley, MA??! Positive people and great homemade food is a winning combination. Thanks again for these additions to my list. Best.
On October 3, 2013...
Matt Lampley posted a note for Jim that says:
post surgery ideas
1. have a good support network, wife, friends etc......we were lucky to have 5 or 6 people bring supper to my family while I was recuperating...helped my wife out a bunch
2. get a reclining easy chair...you will need it for a few weeks at least . it hurts quite a bit to lie prone for 3 weeks or so
3 make sure you have laxatives. the last thing you want to do push, or have pain in your abdomen.
4. when they pull drain tubes be very aware of muscle cramps........they can feel like your dying when the spasms hit you out of the blue for the first week or two...........a simple 10 mg pill of flexiril would have saved me the 3rd night in recovery if I had known.
5. I am sure you are aware, but the sooner you get out and start walking when you get home the better. I started with a walk around house, then drive way ....block ....and so on.......
TAKE YOUR PAIN KILLERS !!! don't be a hero .........makes things a lot worse.
sleep when you want to sleep....anytime , any place.....
eat as much as your want to regain your energy for the first few weeks,
try to have a BP/HR monitor at home .....keep a log and check it often...especially when you feel a bit different ...it might show a pattern.
ask for help
best of luck !!!
Jim Jones Matt
Thanks so much! Wonderful advice. I am making a list. I also know you are helping more than me w ... Read more
Jim Jones Matt
Thanks so much! Wonderful advice. I am making a list. I also know you are helping more than me with your tips. Thanks again for your contribution. Best.
On October 2, 2013...
Renee Radocaj posted a note for Jim that says:
Heart Pillow!! I carried it with me everywhere for at least a month. I slept with it too. You never want to be without it. It helps to remind you of the sternal precautions you need to take. Also - when you do venture out, it keeps people away from you (in a good way)! You do not want to be bumped or knocked into. I would also place it underneath the seatbelt when riding in a car. You may feel silly with it but who cares! It's a lifesaver!! Good luck!!
Jim Jones Ah, never leave home without it! Great advice, Renee. Thanks so much. Are things good with you?
On October 2, 2013...
Anna Penido posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim, I am going for the same surgery . Mine is Nov 5th. In Los Angeles. I read all the forum about recliners x hospital bed and decided to rent a hospital bed. Also got a zero gravity chair for day time. I have read also that staying fit before the surgery will help you recoup. I see in the photo that you enjoy jogging. I hope to get back to that too. Right now I walk and exercise at home. Hope all runs well for you! Blessings, Anna
Jim Jones Well Anna, on Nov 5th we will each undergo surgery. A west coat-east coast deal! We can then report o ... Read more
Jim Jones Well Anna, on Nov 5th we will each undergo surgery. A west coat-east coast deal! We can then report on our running progress post-surgery. Good luck on your bed and zero gravity chair solution. I look forward to how they work for you. All the best!
On October 2, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Jim that says:
Good question Jim! All those ideas are good and i'm putting them on my list. We are both in the countdown. As I've said before, I just want to get this over with! We both need to stay strong!
Jim Jones Carol
You bet. I am looking forward to being on the other side! I have been so busy at work that my m ... Read more
Jim Jones Carol
You bet. I am looking forward to being on the other side! I have been so busy at work that my mind has been otherwise occupied. It is the downtime that is sometimes tricky to navigate. Let's stay positive and focused. Deal?!
On October 2, 2013...
Rebecca s posted a note for Jim that says:
Jim, the best advice I can give is to walk as soon as you can, keep up the work, take your pain meds. Don't worry with needing to get off them. If you have pain you need the meds. Also Chapstick and ice chips for the incredibly dry mouth right after the breathing tube is removed. Keep your heart pillow close by. Do the spirometer thing. And we rented an electric recliner for a month. It was great for the daytime. This particular one wasn't great for overnight sleeping.....my bony butt was not comfortable. I slept for weeks on the couch propped up on pillows. If you are tired, nap, nap, nap. And get into rehab as soon as you can. I was in there at 3 weeks post op. And eat what tastes good. Appetite drags a little.
Jim Jones Lots af great advice, Rebecca. Thanks so much for your help here. I am making a list now. Real glad t ... Read more
Jim Jones Lots af great advice, Rebecca. Thanks so much for your help here. I am making a list now. Real glad to see you are seeing improvement. All the best!
On October 2, 2013...
Deb Ziegler posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim,
My advice for recovery is to walk as much as you are physically able, and sign up for and go to cardiac rehab as soon as possible. It takes awhile for insurance to okay the rehab, so I would try to get signed up while you are still in the hospital. I think you will be amazed at how much you can do shortly after surgery. I also wish I had continued with my pain meds a little longer than I did. I quit at about three weeks out, and after reading my journal, I started having a lot of weird pains after that. It is nice to be off of them, but they really do help. Recovery is not a linear thing. You will probably have a few setbacks, but it is very doable. Oh yeah......cardiac rehab is awesome! Very worthwhile and even fun!
Godspeed and good luck!
Jim Jones Thank you, Deb. Wonderful advice! And I thank you so much for the well wishes.
On October 1, 2013...
Carol Foster posted a note for Jim that says:
Hey Jim!
Thanks for your posts to my guestbook! I was in a west facing room and thought I may have seen the sign :-) too funny! Lol! I'll be keeping track of you during the next several weeks so keep posting! Take care, God Bless, Go Pats!
Jim Jones Carol:
Great to hear from you! Hope today will be a great day for you. I will be following your progr ... Read more
Jim Jones Carol:
Great to hear from you! Hope today will be a great day for you. I will be following your progress also. I suspect you saw the game Sunday night? Tough for Wilfork-I love the guy. Good win for the Pats. I am so busy wth work that it is keeping my mind fully occupied. All the best.
On September 28, 2013...
lynn ennis posted a note for Jim that says:
Jim! What a coincidence and how wonderful for us! Its a comfort to know we will both walk down that road at the same time and begin our recoveries. I don't feel quite as alone now- I like the buddy system!
Life is wonderful- you never know who is going to come help you!
Jim Jones Exactly. Cardiac buddies! We can an create a bi-coastal alliance and focus on wonderful outcomes. We ... Read more
Jim Jones Exactly. Cardiac buddies! We can an create a bi-coastal alliance and focus on wonderful outcomes. We can also post our race times as we recover. That will give you an opportunity to tell me to pick up the pace!
On September 27, 2013...
Aubrey posted a note for Jim that says:
Have not heard from you lately, hope all is well. The recovery is easier than I thought it would be and none of it is as bad as I anticipated. I hope the same will be your experience and that you are not worrying about the surgery. Really, they do all the hard work, we just have to take some drugs, push some buttons, walk and have a bowel movement. Piece of cake.
Jim Jones Hey Aubrey
All is well. It is great to hear from you! I am glad your recovery is going so well. I am ... Read more
Jim Jones Hey Aubrey
All is well. It is great to hear from you! I am glad your recovery is going so well. I am hoping for an event free recovery myself. Since I returned from Italy it has been non stop work. It is my busy season. The benefit of that is that I am enjoying myself and I do not have time to worry. October will be the same as I try to get everything done before November 5th. Keep up the great work, Aubrey. Best!
On September 25, 2013...
Rach shelley posted a note for Jim that says:
Thanks for writing in my guest book jim :) I dot have a date, but it'll hopefully be in the next month. Pre op tests 14th nov. I'd love a date right now but knowing it's soon helps. How're you feeling? I am excited to get fixed but worried about the anaesthetic mainly - funny what bothers us the most eh?! Keep us updated,
Rach
Jim Jones Rach
Thanks for visiting. Yes, knowing it is soon is a relief for me also. I am feeling well but I am ... Read more
Jim Jones Rach
Thanks for visiting. Yes, knowing it is soon is a relief for me also. I am feeling well but I am anxious to get 'er done. I guess I am worried about the pace of recovery. I have a fast brain that probably will be exasperated with a slow body! All the best to you as you proceed to your day!
On September 24, 2013...
gabrielle posted a note for Jim that says:
Yes Jim, I told you before 5th Nov is Melbourne Cup Day. Glad it is all going to plan for you. Gabi
Jim Jones Thanks, Gabi! Starting in 2014 we will celebrate Melbourne Cup Day. I hope you are healing well and e ... Read more
Jim Jones Thanks, Gabi! Starting in 2014 we will celebrate Melbourne Cup Day. I hope you are healing well and enjoying life. BTW, we met a delightful couple from Sydney on a train ride a few weeks ago from Venice to Rome. We learned more about Australia and had a great time talking. All the best this week.
On September 23, 2013...
Chris K posted a note for Jim that says:
Good luck with your cardiac cath on Oct. 15th. It is like the first baby step you take towards the big event on Nov. 5th. Will be thinking of you and wishing you the best on both those days!
Jim Jones Chris:
Good morning and thanks so much! This journey is one step and one day at a time. I hope all i ... Read more
Jim Jones Chris:
Good morning and thanks so much! This journey is one step and one day at a time. I hope all is well with you and that you are getting a bit of the fall weather we are experiencing. Thanks so much for stopping by. All the best!
On September 23, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Jim that says:
JJ!!!
Thanks for keeping up with my journal.
Sounds like you've got a great attitude and that make s a big difference going into and coming out of surgery. You've been following people's journals for a bit and that's good, because it really does help prepare you for what's to come. Don't worry, you are going to do great. It's definitely an interesting train ride.
Jim Jones Thanks so much, Ernie. I am looking to join you soon on the post-op side. Following everyone's journa ... Read more
Jim Jones Thanks so much, Ernie. I am looking to join you soon on the post-op side. Following everyone's journals has been valuable and encouraging. And you are and will do great also. I could not believe how good you looked in your hospital photo. I am waiting for your "I feel great and I am glad I did this" posts. Seems like the hardest work is in the first 30 days post op. Keep it up, Ernie.
On September 23, 2013...
Helen Roy posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim,
So glad you have a date for your operation and the waiting is nearly over.It is scary once you get the date but its also a huge relief especially when your body is telling you things are not right. Looking forward to hearing about your progess post op.
This is great! I now have a UK cardiac buddy. Helen, thanks for stopping by. I am so pleased to see your progress, and the 10 top things you can do, after eight weeks of surgery. Running up stairs??! That is huge. Your story is incredibly encouraging for you and all of us who face surgery. Yes, it is great to have a date. I would not mind having it done today! :)
All the best this week as you continue to recover.
On September 22, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim,
Thanks for your note- Italy was wonderful; Paris too! We walked 6-8 hours a day in Venice, stopping for lunch, coffee, wine. I had never been there before- what an ancient place!
Good luck on the cath- it's actually very easy- I also had a radial done and went home a few hours later with a band aid on my wrist. No pain afterward- i was just a bit tired. I used to work as a nurse at BWH- it's the best place! I wish I was having my surgery there actually...but I think SF will be good. I can vouch for ther fact that this whole process is light years better than when i was a nurse- in the 1980's- so even if the approach is still somewhat barbaric, the process is more refined.
I love reading all your warm and kind notes to other people on this site. I know I have found most of my courage from these stories here- Ernie does not hold back any details!..if he can do it, we can too :)
Jim Jones Hey thanks, Lynn, and welcome back. What a small world. BWH, Venice and Paris! Lise and I usually go ... Read more
Jim Jones Hey thanks, Lynn, and welcome back. What a small world. BWH, Venice and Paris! Lise and I usually go to France for yearly vacation and start and end in Paris. She majored in French and spent her junior year abroad in Paris and Tours.
You have to come out and run the Boston marathon once you recover. We volunteer at the 14 mile mark and I run the BAA 5K the day before.
Thank you for your kind words and encouragement. I am hoping and expecting the radial treatment. Nice folks in cardiac scheduling at BWH, they have been there a long time and also work well with Dr. Adams at Mt. Sinai, a BWH alum you may recall.
I am also finding encouragement and confidence from the community. We just have to get Ernie off his BM postings to something like "and I walked 2 miles today and mom made meatloaf and potatoes. And then I cleaned my bedroom..."!
Have a great one!
On September 21, 2013...
Lise posted a note for Jim that says:
Jim- I am enjoying reading all the wonderful comments from your new "cardiac friends" about their experiences , and I feel the support is truly priceless. We have had many discussions about this surgery , and I am so confident that we have made the right decision going with a world -renowned surgeon ( and facility), who clearly reinforced our decision. Fortunately, you are in terrific shape and have the best attitude - both will serve you well in the days ahead-also, the support of our Boston medical contacts and NYC area friends are all contributing to the "good karma" I have so often referred to. I just hope I can keep up with you when you are back on your feet!!
Keeping positive thoughts !! Xoxo moi
Jim Jones Gang, this is my wonderful wife, Lise. Lise, let me introduce you to the community. Thanks for postin ... Read more
Jim Jones Gang, this is my wonderful wife, Lise. Lise, let me introduce you to the community. Thanks for posting! As you know, I have no friends and have had to resort to posting under imaginary names to my guestbook to simulate activity. Thank you for being a real person!
Folks, Lise has been involved every step of this journey and has been invaluable. I could not have done it without her. She will be the "go to" caretaker as I recover.
Lise, I encourage you to read the journals. They have helped me a great deal, tell me what to expect and have produced friendships.
I would ask, however, that you avoid Ernie's journal . He mostly discusses bodily functions, writes untrue things about his saintly mother and fails to respond to my clever messages in his guestbook. On the other hand, if you want to laugh for hours, go ahead, read his stuff!
Hope you can keep up with me once I recover!
Love - me
On September 19, 2013...
Barb Brooks posted a note for Jim that says:
Jim... thanks for the confidence! It won't be long before I see Francis Street!
Now that the Red Sox are in the playoffs spirits are high and everyone is on their "A" game. That will help you.
Do not be distracted by the TVs in the OR, that is just standard fare during the playoffs and isn't too distracting! Positive thoughts!
On September 19, 2013...
momma posted a note for Jim that says:
good morning Jim Son...You will handle all of this in your usual "no nonsense" way, and after your surgery we won't be able to catch up w/ you!
Plus you can take your wonderful sense of humor to the hospital and when they tire of your foolishness they will kick you out....then home for a rest.
love
Jim Jones Momma:
Well thank you so much! You bet, we will get 'er done. Everything is lining up well so far and ... Read more
Jim Jones Momma:
Well thank you so much! You bet, we will get 'er done. Everything is lining up well so far and I am looking forward to the improvements after surgery. And I have been kicked out of so many places by now I won't even blink when they toss me out on 5th Avenue.
Love ya. me
On September 18, 2013...
Barb Brooks posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim... I'm having my cath the day before surgery. Thought that was odd. I just realized you reside in Wellesley, but are traveling to NYC for your surgery. Now I'm second guessing my decision, and it's making me nervous. What do you know that I don't... and can you share? :-)
Jim Jones Barb
I know you have made a great decision! I also know you and I will be nervous at times before we ... Read more
Jim Jones Barb
I know you have made a great decision! I also know you and I will be nervous at times before we have our procedures! And, at times we will wonder if we have made the right decisions.
I am heading to NYC because I have a pretty tricky and complex mitral valve repair that requires a super specialist, Dr. Adams. He had been with the Brigham for many years before Mt. Sinai. He is the right guy for my situation. If I was having aortic work done I bet I would be driving 9 miles east of my home here in Wellesley and turning onto Francis Street. You are in great hands.
On September 18, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Jim that says:
Jim, they called the level of Anesthesia "twilight". I was there, I could follow instructions, I could carry on a conversation, but I had no cares about or ability to feel anything bad from the cath.
It was pretty cool.
Jim Jones Jeff
Maybe I should book a room for a few days? Sounds like a big difference from my usual days!
I h ... Read more
Jim Jones Jeff
Maybe I should book a room for a few days? Sounds like a big difference from my usual days!
I had a similar experience a few years with a colonoscopy. Not a care in the world. I actually showed my wife I could lower my pulse rate at will when I was hooked up to the machines. Made her a bit nervous!
Keep healing, Jeff
On September 18, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Jim that says:
I had the femoral cath, which turned out not to be bad at all... The biggest issue was my cardiologist sensing I was nervous made an extra effort to converse with me. This relaxed me, but then once I was on the happy juice, he had trouble getting me to stop talking. Not bad at all.
Jim Jones Thanks so much, Jeff. That is reassuring. Aubrey was femoral also I believe and he made out well. I w ... Read more
Jim Jones Thanks so much, Jeff. That is reassuring. Aubrey was femoral also I believe and he made out well. I will go in being flexible and regardless I am sure it will work out. I am particularly excited about the happy juice- now that is a great deal!
On September 18, 2013...
Rebecca S posted a note for Jim that says:
Jim, you are on your way! I wanted a Radial cath but they said they needed to do both right and left side heart caths and that required the femoral approach. Recovery wasn't bad for that either.
Take care!
Jim Jones Thanks, Rebecca! There is a certain sense of relief to get the ball rolling. I think I will be able t ... Read more
Jim Jones Thanks, Rebecca! There is a certain sense of relief to get the ball rolling. I think I will be able to get away with radical. I need left side only and the doctor that will do the work specializes in radical so I will keep my fingers (or wrists) crossed. You take care also. Loving the fact you have already started rehab.
On September 17, 2013...
Cindy Wilson posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim. Long distance trips help the wait. We ran away to Hawaii. So glad you and and your wife were able to escape reality for a while. Doesn't get any better than Italy! Hope you felt great throughout the trip. Sending tons of prayers your way for strength over the next few weeks as you prepare for the big day.
Jim Jones Cindy
Thanks so much for your kind note! I hope you are feeling a bit better every day. We loved Ital ... Read more
Jim Jones Cindy
Thanks so much for your kind note! I hope you are feeling a bit better every day. We loved Italy. Apparently Mr. mitral valve enjoyed visiting Rome, Florence and Venice. He does however want to get repaired soon! All the best!
On September 16, 2013...
Aubrey posted a note for Jim that says:
Welcome back and glad you had a good time. Also, if the area of the cath looks a little beat up afterwards, don't worry, it does not hurt. Just looks like it should. Good luck going forward.
Jim Jones Thanks, Aubrey. Keep those tips coming. I want to see if they can go in thru my wrist. We will see. I ... Read more
Jim Jones Thanks, Aubrey. Keep those tips coming. I want to see if they can go in thru my wrist. We will see. I hope every day is getting better for you. All the best, big guy.
On September 14, 2013...
Aubrey posted a note for Jim that says:
For me, the waiting was much worse than the real event. Keep us posted but I found it to be and easier journey than I thought and being about 17 days post op, I am walking around the local neighborhood twice a day for 15 minutes. It is a bit of a stretch but not much. You will probably do better having been a better runner than I ever was. Keep me posted and if you have any questions, let me know.
If it helps, within about 10 days post op, I was really glad I did it. I bet you will be too.
Keep,posting
Jim Jones Aubrey-thanks for your post! Your information is extremely helpful. I have 7 weeks to go. MV-Day is N ... Read more
Jim Jones Aubrey-thanks for your post! Your information is extremely helpful. I have 7 weeks to go. MV-Day is November 5th. As you say, the waiting can be tough at times. I will keep posting and also cheering for your recovery here on the east coast. Hope today will be a good one for you! Best -Jim
On August 27, 2013...
Renee Radocaj posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim! I really enjoyed your journal. I think you will be very relieved to put this behind you! I had 3.5 weeks between diagnosis and surgery. It was the longest 3.5 weeks ever!! It will be so great not having this hang over your head and I know you will recover very quickly! Wishing you all the best and look forward to more posts.
Jim Jones Hey Renee:
Thank you so much for your kind words. I have also enjoyed your journal a great deal. I fe ... Read more
Jim Jones Hey Renee:
Thank you so much for your kind words. I have also enjoyed your journal a great deal. I feel like we are a small community of fellow travelers all taking the same "I never, ever thought I would be doing this" journey! Wishing you the very best also!
On August 26, 2013...
Ernie B.S. posted a note for Jim that says:
Wow Jim, sounds like once you fully recover you are going to be REALLY happy with your running compared to what it's dwindled down to now with your valve problems. I'm looking forward to when I can get back to running again.
Thanks for following my journal and signing my guestbook.
Let's hope we both are impressed with our exercise capacity on the other side of our surgeries. It feels like I am running underwater right now. My mind says go, my legs say, nah, this is ok. It is frustrating.
Have a good one, big guy!
On August 26, 2013...
Brian Walsh posted a note for Jim that says:
Hey Jim, looks like you are up for a November vist to Dr. Adams for the repair. As I'm sure you know, you are in good hands, speaking from 8 months post op and fully back to my running now, almost back to my prior pace.
You'll be in my list of prayers, wishing you all the best!
Thanks so much for your post! Looks like we are both avid runners. I am so pleased to hear you are doing well and running again. Indeed, I am quite fortunate to have Dr. Adams. Thank you so much for your support.
On August 23, 2013...
Cindy Wilson posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim:
Who is your doctor in Boston? I saw Michael Landzberg at Brigham for a second opinion. Fabulous doctor and a great staff. This journey is so humbling as we go along and meet all of these talented medical professionals who will save our lives. Looking forward to the next entry. All the very best.
Jim Jones Hey Cindy:
My cardiologist is Dr. Patrick O'Gara at the Brigham. He is outstanding. BTW, he is the Pr ... Read more
Jim Jones Hey Cindy:
My cardiologist is Dr. Patrick O'Gara at the Brigham. He is outstanding. BTW, he is the President elect of the ACC and is committed to heart medicine. Dr. O'Gara has been long active with the ACC advancing the science of valve disease treatment. I have a complex mitral valve repair so all that is important to me.
Thinking of you as you continue your countdown! Best wishes!
On August 22, 2013...
Chris K posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim:
It is amazing that you have been such a good runner for so many years in spite of your mitral valve! At least your body will be in good condition for your surgery! I look forward to your updates and wish you the best in November. As many fellow HVJr's have said, the worst part is the waiting. But the one advantage is that you have time to get prepared and get informed. This website has been great for me. I felt so well prepared for my surgery.
Thanks for your posting on my guestbook.
Jim Jones Chris
I am so glad to hear you are doing well 2 weeks after surgery. And thank you for your kind word ... Read more
Jim Jones Chris
I am so glad to hear you are doing well 2 weeks after surgery. And thank you for your kind words.My job is to see if I can stay with the fitness until November. It is harder to push myself out the door lately! So glad you have family to inspire you as you heal. And yes, this community has been great for me. Keep healing.
All the best!
On August 22, 2013...
Ernie posted a note for Jim that says:
"I am looking for the very best outcome for you"
Me too! Thanks Jim!!!
On August 19, 2013...
Ernie B.S. posted a note for Jim that says:
Welcome JJ!!!!
Jim Jones Thanks, Ernie! How was your weekend? Looks like we are getting closer to your date with Toro. I enjoy ... Read more
Jim Jones Thanks, Ernie! How was your weekend? Looks like we are getting closer to your date with Toro. I enjoy the heck out of your posts-every one brings a smile to my face. I am looking for the very best outcome for you, big guy.
All the best
JJ
On August 18, 2013...
James Lucas posted a note for Jim that says:
Good luck ... For me, the worst part of this experience was the part that led up to the surgery, which I found to be terrifying. The recovery was not easy, but it was something that I could manage. Keep the faith ...
Jim Jones James
Thanks so much! I am still in the elective stage, pushing the boundaries, so I was able to sche ... Read more
Jim Jones James
Thanks so much! I am still in the elective stage, pushing the boundaries, so I was able to schedule the date 4 months after meeting with my surgeon. One month has gone by so I need to mentally navigate 3 more well. I know what you mean about the waiting! My mantra now is that I am not waiting, I am preparing! Let's see "how much gas is in that tank"! Keep healing-I will be following your swimmingvprogress. All the best.
On August 18, 2013...
Adam Pick posted a note for Jim that says:
Hi Jim,
Welcome to our patient community!
If you need anything, please let me know.
Keep on tickin!
Jim Jones Adam:
Thanks so much! I certainly appreciate your kind offer. I have obtained a great deal of value f ... Read more
Jim Jones Adam:
Thanks so much! I certainly appreciate your kind offer. I have obtained a great deal of value from everything you have done with your site and with your recent webinar. I will let you know if I need anything. Best: Jim
Thank you. You too! It is sobering. I think in some ways it is also good. When you face your ... Read more
Thank you. You too! It is sobering. I think in some ways it is also good. When you face your mortality you can put things in perspective in good ways. When you face your fears and complete the task it makes you stronger. I wish in some ways that I was 20 so that I could take what I learn and use it for many, many decades ( rather than just many decades!). It sort of strips down things to their essence. Of course, let's be real, I will always be type A, maybe just kinder and gentler!
Agree on Europe and on being busy. We have great photos and I am booked solid till we leave for NYC. Lynn, you will do great! Please remind your husband to make sure he plans your celebratory 2014 European jaunt!!!