Judy, I was able to add this page to my "blog" tab to make it easier to check frequently. I am praying for you today. I know you have many serious and difficult decisions to make. Mary Roberts
On February 17, 2011...
Judy-
Our family will hold you in our prayers!
Todd. Cindy and fur-kids, Daisy and Hazel Nut
Severn, MD
On February 17, 2011...
Judy, the prior message was from Val and Lexi. I am so use to using FB where your name just shows up.
On February 17, 2011...
Judy, Thinking of you and asking for strength and guidance for you as you decide who will do your surgery. Your strength and determination will be some of your best friends as you recover and get back to doing what you love. xo
On February 17, 2011...
Hey Judy,
Was thinking of you first thing this morning. I went to check Ricochet's fb page to see if any updates. I really hope your appt went okay. We are thinking of you and wish you well! I never used to pray too much, but I can tell you that in the last several months, I have been praying about a lot of stuff. I am including you in those prayers. I pray too that you are in the best doctor's hands and that your recovery goes well. Please, please...make sure you rest and don't be afraid to ask for help!
Melissa
On February 17, 2011...
Judy, We are saying prayers everyday for you, Rina and Richochet. I know it is hard not to be scared but I also know God will watch over you and keep you safe.
Brenda Groves
Fairborn Ohio
On February 17, 2011...
Judy,
The anxiety is only natural but it is scary. I have found that using visual imagery can be helpful. Think of a very pleasantt experience and focus all of your energy on visualizing that and relieving something wonderful. Prayers are with you that you will find the best physician for you.
Nina Wormuth
On February 17, 2011...
Good idea to close the warriors group page. I agree. What happened at the Doc's yesterday? Yes anxiety is very understandable. At night when it is dark and the thoughts start getting you. I know the feeling. Does the Doc have you on any anxiety meds? That may help for the weeks before surgery. Just a suggestion. Another one is too hug ric and rina. They will smooch you all over and lower your blood pressure. take care.
Hugs
candy
On February 16, 2011...
Dear Judy,
Of course you are scared! It's a terrifying time dealing with unknown stuff.
On the plus side, you are obviously in great physical shape and, if anyone can snap back fast, it should be you. One thing I have learned from my cardio-rehab class is that everyone - along a whole spectrum of physical and mental types - has come through their operation. They are now facing the challenges and doing it admirably - and some of them are quite elderly! Attitude is everything and you obviously have a million friends and your dogs to give you something to strive for.
As for the drugs, I was never in that situation BUT, if they will enable you to sleep, I would be all for it. A nurse who cared for me during my recovery said that the people with the least anxiety seem to do the best. A night of sleep can make everything look a bit brighter. What is there about being awake at night, worrying, that magnifies everything beyond reality?
You have a great facility in LA and I think you will find that once the plans are made and the surgery date is set, you will relax somewhat.
Hope all goes well. You seem to have the support of some GR groups - they are the best. I have been involved in GR clubs on the local and National level for over 40 years and it has given a lot of meaning to my life!
Anne Shannon
On February 16, 2011...
We are praying everyday for you , Richchet and Rina.
On February 16, 2011...
Judy, in that the upcoming surgery is provoking anxiety and fear is understandable. And even though you and your girls are extraordinary in ALL you do for SO many, at least now we know you really are human! Hard to believe I know, it was a surprise to me. Seriously, you have done the research, probably more than needed. When we are facing the unknown, we almost always imagine the worst. Try to focus on the positive: on how much better you will feel when it is over, how much more energy you will have to do the things you love to do. Try doing some research on relaxation techniques and practice them, especially during those times at night when the fear sets in. Trust your instincts and know that there are many who love you and are praying for you. May God Bless you and yours and Bless you with what He knows you need in the days ahead. With love to you and your girls, Janine
On February 16, 2011...
ooooooppppps, the last entry was from me, Sabine :)))
So used to FB, where the name just gets attached to what we're writing............
Hugs
Sabine
On February 16, 2011...
so great that you are so honest about your fears..... so great that you share this journey with us. I am thinking of you, and will be reading this journal.
BTW: what a cute photo w/ you, Rina and baby Ricochet...........
On February 16, 2011...
Hi Judy,
I am praying for you, Ric and Rina that you are going to be okay.
God Bless You and Keep You Under His Kind And Loving Care!
All Our Love,
Connie and Charlie xoxo
On February 16, 2011...
COUGARS FOR CHRIST from Copper Basin High School, Copperhill, TN prayed for you today!! We will be continuing to do so in the days ahead!! We are located in the SE corner of the TN/GA/NC border, home of the OCOEE RIVER, site of the Atlanta Olympics whitewater events! We are a tiny school (350 students) but our students have a heart for others! Our Rachel's Challenge Club (Rachel Scott of Columbine) just used one of Surf Dog's video for their meeting! You and surf dog are quite an inspiration to others!
On February 16, 2011...
Hi Judy,
Congrats you're normal!! If anxiety is the only thing you're feeling consider yourself lucky. I'm now 9 months post op doing great. Surgery wasn't anything even close to the horrors that I imagined. Just stay positive, and make up your mind now to follow the surgeons and nurses directions - get up, walk, use that spirometer religiously...
Important thing to remember is that you will be intubated and most likely wake up with a tube in your throat - don't panic. good luck
Kyle in Montana
On February 16, 2011...
Thinking of you during this time - sending you lots of love, healing energy, and mischievous behavior (par for the course!)
Love ~ Snotface Ferret
On February 16, 2011...
this is AWESOME to create this blog...then we all know everything at the same time.
praying very, very hard for you.....love/sam mcfarland
On February 16, 2011...
Hi Judy! this is a great idea. I can't wait until your surgery is done either. Hope today's visit to Cedar's goes well and if you need someone to visit or bring you anything if you have surgery up in L.A. I'd be happy to help.
Elizabeth "Aspasia" Shapiro <3
On February 16, 2011...
W.C.Henley's famous line "I am the Master of my fate, the Captain of my soul" could have been written by you. Judy, you've steered your life in a direction which can only lead to the most positive outcome in your days and weeks ahead. Thousands are praying for you, Ric and Rina. We're all "pawing forward" the positive energy you have inspired in us.
Much love to you and your girls!
Valerie (and furries Lucy, Betty, Ricky and Tilly)
On February 16, 2011...
Judy,
I had posted to you back on February 3rd about your fears of pain. Now my sterum is beginning to heal as I do feel it....Minor, dull pain but NOTHING like I too had feared. Use your energies to focus on postive thoughts!!!!
Lori W.
On February 16, 2011...
From our hearts to yours..we are with you in spirit.
On February 16, 2011...
After reading about Dr. Adams I sure hope he can do your surgery. He seems to be everyones first choice. Hope you get his team to do your surgery. Praying. Barb and Prayer Warrior's.
Judy Fridono I'm not seeing Dr. Adams, but he sounds like a very good surgeon. If I lived closer to New York, I w ... Read more
Judy Fridono I'm not seeing Dr. Adams, but he sounds like a very good surgeon. If I lived closer to New York, I would have sought him out. Thanks!
On February 16, 2011...
hi, judy -- i've been following ric's page for awhile now--you guys do amazing things. love how you write like ric is talking, esp. when she says, "me and rina." i even posted the other day like my dog was talking. think it gives people a smile. i will remember you in prayer. i know this must be so scary for you and i would think it is natural to have anxiety. i hope your faith in God, the trusting of your doctors and surgeon and the help and care of your friends will help you on this road. my husband had a heart attack at 45, his problem was taken care of with angioplasty and he has done well for a long time with just having to get a couple stents. i think heart help has come a long way. glad you created this blog for us to know how things are going and also for you so we can help you through surgery and recovery.
On February 16, 2011...
Judy,
I will be thinking of you! I will be thinking of Rina & Ricochet too, knowing how much they will miss you while you are in the hospital. My heart goes out to you and knowing how scarey a major surgery to a vital organ is like that. I pray everything goes well for you and that you have a great recovery! Don't ever ever be afraid or too prideful to ask for help. A ton of people out there that care a lot and would be willing to do whatever is within their power. Good luck Judy! Keep very strong! The stronger you are, the better the outcome will be...(that's what I have always been told b4 a surgery).
On February 16, 2011...
Our thoughts and prayers are with you every minute of every day. When I am unable to sleep at night due to anxiety (which is often) I say the rosary over and over and that helps!
Love and prayers to you,
Barb Lannin
On February 16, 2011...
Judy, you and the dogs are awesome. We'll keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Jan & Shadow
On February 16, 2011...
There are no words I can think of to make this journey of yours any easier. All I can say is you a brave, wonderfully caring person. And I know that everything will turn out fine. You are made of the right stuff, so chin up & good wishes. Know that we all love you & will be praying for your quick recovery. I will be keeping track & looking forward to seeing you soon. Love you tons.
On February 16, 2011...
Judy you and your wonderful fur-babies are such an inspiration- i wish you all the best in your journey.
On February 16, 2011...
Judy, it's so very normal to feel anxiety in the dark of night. Just say a prayer when you feel the anxiety coming on, and know that God's love and protection is surrounding you every hour of every day.
As a psychologist, may I suggest that deep breathing is very helpful when you feel the anxiety coming on. Deep breathing is very calming and you might want to use it anytime you feel anxious prior to the surgery.
I pray for you daily, and so does our church every Sunday.
Nancie Wilson
On February 16, 2011...
Judy- I understand fear at a personal level and wish there were something I could do to calm you. God knows that you have done so much for others through your work with Ricochet that you will get through this and go on with life. My sister had heart surgery. She asked the doctor for something for the anxiety beforehand and I know it helped. God bless you and keep you. You will be okay.
On February 16, 2011...
Sending healing thoughts your way...
On February 16, 2011...
Will keep you in my prayers! Remember, God knows your fears...turn to Him for peace and comfort.
On February 16, 2011...
Judy, ask for some Xanax. It will help you sleep. You won't need much and for a few weeks it won't be habit forming. Especially the night before and on the day of surgery.
Doesn't make you high or anything, just relieves anxiety. Even crusty old Marines like me used it before my triple bypass (2009) and it worked! I was rested and smiling and joking with the anesthesiologist on cutting day!
Trust me it will be the least of the drugs you will be taking for the next couple of months.
Some other thoughts:
The sternum has very few nerves so, little pain from incision. Also they use a kind of superglue now so the incision is not stiched, it's just a thin line. You should not look like Frankenstein.
The sternum is wired together very tight. Doctor told me it's just as strong if not stronger than before it's cut so no worries about your chest "coming apart".
You will sleep on your back for about 2 months. You get used to it but the day will gradually come when you'll be able to roll over on your side.
Start practicing now on how to lever yourself up and out of bed without using your arms. Fold them across your chest and use your legs to hook the side of the bed and use your abdominals to do a kind of sideways sit up. You will not be able to "push yourself off" with your arms for a few weeks until your chest heals up.
For the first couple of weeks you will be up for a couple of hours and then sleeping for a few and then up again. So probably won't be able to concentrate on reading or watching TV for very long.
The walking will start immediately. You won't make it far for the first week or so but you will see gradual improvement every day until you won't even remember how weak you were the first couple of days, I was all over the hospital dragging my IV cart around and they had to come find me so the surgeon could ask me if I wanted to go home. Said I didn't even look like I'd had surgery. Of course I was wearing silk PJs and not one of those ridiculous gowns with my hairy butt hanging out. Went home on the evening of the third day.
My guys, Cody and Katie, were right there with me when I came home and knew I was not to be trifled with. After all the sniffing of the strange hospital smells they settled down and never left my side for the next few weeks. They especially liked the walking rehab parts! LOL!
These are just a few thoughts from my own surgery. It's a big deal but it's not as bad or painful as your internal fears would have it. Just another adventure.
Take care!
Jesse, Cody and Katie in Virginia
On February 16, 2011...
Judy, I am writing from Florida, and have been following you through Ricochet and Rina. You are a truly inspiring woman and like you, believe in paying it forward. You will be in my thoughts and prayers...................Linda Floyd
On February 15, 2011...
Hey Dear Friend!
I'll be following you and praying for you from across the Pacific. I wish you all the best. Many of your friends have written wonderful messages to you. I don't think I can do or say anything more than they already have. Carmen and I love you - Ric and Rina Bean, too. Can't wait to see you guys on 'Unbelievable'. Make sure to let us know, if you can, the air date. - Jennie
On February 15, 2011...
Judy, no matter how many survivors reassure you I completely understand your trepidation. However, please try to take some comfort and strength that you are doing everything right to get numerous opinions, selecting a surgeon you feel most comfortable with and educating yourself. Clearly many, many people care about you and are holding you and your animal companions in their prayers and hearts. I also have mitral valve prolapse, at this point living with a moderate regurgitation and am likely to need a similar surgery at some point should it deteriorate significantly. However, I have already survived cardiac arrest from ventricular fibrillation - clinically dead/without a heart beat and needed six defibrillaition shocks administered by firefighters and EMTS, but I DID SURVIVE and now live independently with an ICD device implanted in my chest. I did not require open heart surgery, though, and I respect your fears of the extensive measures needed. However, you are young and appear otherwise healthy in your photos and those are very good things in your favor. As others have stated, Cedar Senai is one of the very best places you could possibly be treated. When you go to your fear-place try to breathe slow and deep, let your sweet animal companions keep you 'in the moment,' enjoy the love and hugs of your friends and family and keep sharing your feelings. If you feel like it, please visit my website to read a little more about my story: www.traceyconway.com Part of what upset me about my surgery was the idea that they would be putting a visible box that protruded from my chest. At the same time that I feared 'the box' I felt bad for being vain about my appearance. It was nothing as invasive as having your sternum severed and open heart bypass, but I do know that those vanity and pain concerns and the limitations you will face for awhile are very real and discouraging. With time, once you are through the surgery and initial recovery, I hope you will begin to view them as your badges of honor. It may take awhile, but before you know it, you'll be breathing so much better and have so much more energy to do everything you love with your beloved companions. Okay, long enough rambling from me. Please keep journaling, sharing your concerns with friends, but do rest - you are on the right path and I feel sure you will come through all of this beautifully. Heartfelt regards, Tracey
On February 15, 2011...
Dear Judy,
Even though I've never met you, Ricochet, or Rina, you are a part of my daily life as well as my prayer life. The girls were on Westminster tonight; neither made it to best of group, but they more than ably represented their breed ;- ))) As you know, you have 2 very special girls. You also know that your girls have a very special mom. When I open FB, the first thing I look for are Ricochet's recent entries. They are always so humorous and spirit-lifting. I know others also take delight in reading those funny words and riotous stories. My older son has a yellow lab which reminds me of Ricochet. I've asked my Sunday School class to pray for you. We're a large (100+ members) and powerful Prayer Warrior group. You are on their individual prayer lists. They ask for updates. My favorite hymn is "We Walk by Faith and Not by Sight." It certainly applies in your case. You are a woman of great faith. It sounds so easy, but far from it. Give it to God; He's up all night; let Him worry about it; let Him carry your burden. Rest, Judy. You'll need your strength for recovery. I am hoping the girls will be able to visit considering they're therapy dogs. The three of you are in my heart and in my prayers.
God bless and keep you in His tender love.
Alice in Phoenix
On February 15, 2011...
I can't tell you how excited I get everyday to read about Ricochet and Rina. You all just brighten my day. Thank you for doing what you do. My prayers are with you for a speedy recovery. God bless you Judy and your girls.
Jan O.
On February 15, 2011...
Hi, Judy. This is Secret Meier.
I'm a native southern California girl now living in way-too-hot Arizona.
You're in my prayers.
You're at the best possible hospital. For years my own disease went undiagnosed and I was dismissed by doctors. I didn't know I was having small strokes and seizures. No one in the medical field believed me.
I finally had a massive stroke in 2001. Then the grand mal seizures started, too. It wasn't until I got referred to a neurologist at Cedars Sinai in 2004 that a conclusive dianosis was made. I have SLE lupus vasculitis of the brain.
Thanks to the incredible Mark Taper Imaging Center at Cedars, the tests they did left no doubt. The tests showed the left side of my brain is peppered with holes from hundreds of strokes. I'm so thankful to God that I ended up at Cedars. Prior to that, I was at UCLA Medical Center. Even they couldn't help me.
I have a regurgitating mitral valve, but mine is not serious. I've had two angiograms - one after my stroke in 2001 and one just last year when an Arizona cardiologist made a mistake in saying the lupus had migrated to my heart. I sought a second opinion and went to a different cardiologist and had the angio.
Everything was fine. For months on end, though, the first AZ doctor had me convinced I needed bypass surgery. I had the same worries as you about cutting my sternum.
I'm so happy you're going to be at Cedars. I was happy to read, too, that Ric and Rina are going with you.
When I was going through my diagnosis, I was also going through a really bad divorce. I faced it all alone. I'd hop on a Metrolink train by myself in Riverside and ride all the way down to Union Station; take the subway and then buses to Cedars. It was worth all the effort.
I've signed up to receive your journal entries via email.
You will always be in my prayers. If you ever want someone to talk to who has faced a lot, feel free to contact me. My doctors say I'm a walking, living miracle.
You are an angel walking amongst us.
Always,
Secret
On February 15, 2011...
Sending you sweet dream wishes the next few weeks. Really hoping you can quiet your brain and get some sleep! Make sure your cardiac surgeon marks your bypasses on your post-op heart pillow. It's pretty amazing what can be done to help our bodies, and you will feel better once all is done and healed. When it gets closer, the nurse in me will remind you to behave and follow your instructions by your nurses and docs! :-))) I'll spare you my nurse humor, but will be thinking of you!
On February 15, 2011...
Dear Judy, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives through Ricochet's FB page. Ricochet and Rina are very lucky to have you as their mom. The good work you all do greatly inspires me. I am praying for you and willl continue to pray as your surgery draws near. Remember, that God is always with you....always. I will also keep Ric and Rina in my prayers. There are many people praying for you and all will go well. God Bless you, Nancy Z.
On February 15, 2011...
Judy, I am sending all my good vibes to you. You, Ricki and Rina are truly Special Real Life Angels and our world is a better place because of you. Wishing you a Successful Surgery and a Speedy Recovery. Heal Fast and Enjoy all the Love we feel for you. XOXOXO,
Angela Gilmore
On February 15, 2011...
judy, all of my critters and I wish you a fast recovery. We'll be sending positive thoughts your way now until you've completely healed.
vicki, toby, sheila, louie and monet
On February 15, 2011...
Sending the best to you and Riki and Rina. I am sure that you are going to do great!!
Just remember what I told you "Knowledge is Power"
Warm regards Louie Phillips
On February 15, 2011...
Bunches and bunches of positive energy, thoughts and wishes are coming your way from me for a wonderful outcome and easy & speedy recovery! We want you to come back less tired, happier and healthier than ever, so you can enjoy the wonderful journey you are on with Ricochet. And to enjoy Rina, your friends and family, and not have to worry and feel tired all the time. There are so many more wonderful things in your future, let's get this done so that you can enjoy them and life to the fullest! Jocelyne
On February 15, 2011...
Hey Judy.. You have a special place in MY heart: your Ricochet is related to my service dog Kermit, and I heard about you and Puppy Prodigies from Kermit's breeder. I watched your You Tube videos before you guys became famous and you were a great inspiration to me as a puppy raiser. Please know that you have touched the hearts of so, so, many, and many such a difference in so many lives. All of us now return the favor, and YOU are in the prayers and and thoughts of so, so many. I pray for peace, and strength for you in the coming weeks, and a smooth, successful surgery and speedy recovery. I hope that you do not feel alone, because you're not; you have an entire extended family thinking about you, praying for you and sending you good thoughts and energy. Will watch your blog.. XOXO.. Teresa and Kermit, from Indiana
On February 15, 2011...
Judy, I am praying for you. I do not need to know you to do that. I thank the LORD Jesus that He is the great physician and will be speaking to Him about you. Your fur babies and your dedication to them mean alot to me and bring me much joy!
On February 15, 2011...
Hi, Judy, you & your dogs really do great work! I know how nervous you are about your surgery but I know many people who have had the same type of operation & it went quite well. You're a terrific lady & so many people are praying for you!
On February 15, 2011...
Love ya Judy...best of luck and a speedy recovery...I need to surf with you again...promise...