On December 13, 2013...
Susan Smith in posted a note for Laurie that says:
Be sure to ask questions as no question is unimportant. It will all work out. Take a deep breath.
On December 13, 2013...
Dan Sinclair posted a note for Laurie that says:
Laurie,

I get it, they changed my surgery date on me as well. They moved it from Thursday to Wednesday, you are all mentally prepared for a certain date and when it gets changed it kind of rocks your boat if you know what I mean and I think you do. But you know what we have got to roll with it.
Every little thing gonna be alright!
Laurie Baquol  Everything will be alright, just frustrated. But what is one day is this long journey. Everything hap ... Read more
On December 12, 2013...
Kevin W posted a note for Laurie that says:
Laurie,
Glad to hear you got the answers you needed to calm and prepare yourself. I have also found calm the last couple of days. You are right WE GOT THIS! Ready to get in and get out! Things are moving really fast thou! Monday will be here before we know it. By the way where are you headed for your procedure? Hope you have a relaxing and enjoyable weekend. Merry Christmas!
On December 12, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hey Laurie
You are correct. Indeed, you do have this. All the best as you head toward your date!
On December 12, 2013...
Dan Sinclair posted a note for Laurie that says:
You got this Laurie.
Remember Laurie's health first !
On December 12, 2013...
Susan Smith posted a note for Laurie that says:
Laurie, you will soon be in recovery mode and starting to feel better and better. Keep us posted.
On December 12, 2013...
Mary Skopek posted a note for Laurie that says:
You'll do great! I was told that because of my age I would most likely avoid a lot of complications too and they were right! I had no complications, 7 weeks out today and feeling great!! If I didn't have to see the scar on my chest every day I would probably forget I ever had surgery. The first 48 hours for me I remember thinking I would never be normal again but each day got better and every week I was able to look back at everything I wasn't able to do the previous week. Lots of prayers heading your way!
On December 10, 2013...
Mary Skopek posted a note for Laurie that says:
Yes , my journal is under Mary S. I keep trying to change it to my full name but it's not letting me. :-/
On December 9, 2013...
Mary Skopek posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hi Laurie,
How is everything going as the date gets closer? If you ever any questions or concerns before or after surgery feel free to call or text me! 860-885-4993 Since we're roughly the same age we may have similar recoveries. Praying all goes well!
Laurie Baquol  Hi! Is your journal under Mary S.? Everything is going okay. I am actually due for a journal post, so ... Read more
On December 7, 2013...
Heather St.Pierre posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hi Laurie

I understand your feeling of having so much to do with surgery approaching. I think the most important task is being positive . You seem to have it together for a young lady!
You will do amazing !
On December 6, 2013...
Kevin Woodard posted a note for Laurie that says:
Laurie,
I totally understand your situation. I have been really busy the last month visiting different surgeons, lawyers getting a final dentist visit and clearance for surgery. Also busy putting up X-mas decorations and finishing any misc repairs around the house for my wife. Work as also been very tough trying to get everything completed and off my desk. As Jim said staying busy does help keep your mind off all the negative thoughts. However, your health is the most important thing to consider in all this! Work will be their when you are able to get back to it. Take care of your self First! Can't speak about the recliner issue? I also have read lots of people use them and love them. I am just going to wait and see how I feel in the hospital to decide. All the best and stay positive!
Laurie Baquol  I think I may wait it out and see how I am feeling once I leave the hospital. So much to do so little ... Read more
On December 5, 2013...
Dan Sinclair posted a note for Laurie that says:
Laurie,
It is so individual as you can see from the posts. I had my surgery done in Cleveland, so I made sure the hotel rm we were staying in had a recliner, based on most of the journals I read. I do not think I ever sat in it. I slept in the bed with about six pillows propping me up. I was going to rent one but since I had a week in Cleveland after the surgery I decided to wait and see how I felt. I opted to not buy one or rent one when I got home. Slept in my own bed with a one of the wedges that I bought and a couple of pillows. I personally would wait until you see how you feel. They can deliver a rental fairly fast if you need it. Oh and work, you will never get it all done,....and it does not really matter, it will be there for you when you are better, health first, family next and if you have any room left work....this from a man that was working 15 hour days prior to surgery, so I understand.....
Laurie Baquol  Thanks for the recommendations. I am just going to wait it out. =)
On December 5, 2013...
jeff o posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hi Laurie, recliner yes, beg, borrow or steal one. Wishing you good luck in your surgery and recovery.......The challenge with returning to work is both physical, you'll be tired, sore and achy and more importantly mental. Your ability to really concentrate at a high level for any extended time will be greatly diminished when you return to work and for weeks after. You will be stuck letting more work go than you would like. If you have minimally invasion surgery I think you would be ok to do 2-4 hours a day in 4 weeks. I a full sternotomy and returned in 6 weeks.
Laurie Baquol  Thanks for the info Jeff, MUCH appreciated!
On December 5, 2013...
Sidney Nash posted a note for Laurie that says:
Laurie,

You will do fine with this. I walked 3 miles one week after surgery. Was doing payroll for my wife's law firm in 18 days. As far as mental acuity, I read a book (Stephen King's Doctor Sleep) in a day (a long day, but I did it.) I slept laying down from the first night I got home forward and went got off of pain pills within a day of getting home. I had aortic valve replacement with them only cutting half of my sternum. I hope this helps. I am 43 and was in pretty decent shape. Go ahead and plan for rehab now. I waited till my 3 week follow up and it took roughly six weeks after my surgery to get started.

You will have some bumps in the road (atrial fibrillation is about 35% chance) and I'm dealing with high blood pressure and some flutters that won't go away. Just keep your eyes on where you will be in 6 months. Married, in better health and relieved of this 21 year malady.

Good luck with everything!
Laurie Baquol  Sidney, the book idea is great! Thanks for the tip and encouragement!
On December 5, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hey Laurie
I can see everyone is providing you answers to your questions. Let me just share a few thoughts.
In my opinion
Busy is good. It keeps your mind off of negative thoughts which just are not helpful.
A recliner is priceless. Just like the commercial. I strongly recommend you try the bad boy out. You will spend a lot of time in it. Try not to skimp if you rent or buy. A lousy recliner will not help you.

Re: work, it is so individual. Next week, a bit less than 5 weeks, I will start pt in the office and see how I do. I had a complex mitral valve repair. I could not have started any earlier. My best advice is to listen to your body, don't rush it and don't try to set a firm date to return.

Best of success, Laurie.

Laurie Baquol  Thanks for the feedback Jim, as always you seem to always have the answer. I will definitely listen t ... Read more
On December 5, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Laurie that says:
Laurie,
I rented the motorized/electric recliner from a medical supply store for $99.00 a month. They delivered it on Oct. 2, had surgery Oct. 8, came home Oct. 14 and used it until NOv. 2 when I had them pick it up. You will not be able to use a regular recliner that first week without someone helping you with the lever. You could also try Craiglist if you want to buy one. Remember the first 2 weeks you will have to sleep in the recliner because you will really hurt tryng to lay down and you can't turn because it hurts.

Take your time going back to work. You take what ever the Dr. says since you will be very tired. Remember you have to get your walking in and also your PT exercises in. I walked 2-3 times a day around the neighbothood. At this time of year you will have to probably be taken to the mall to get the walking in. I also had trouble focusing on things.....couldn't read a book, really didnt watch any TV or any movies. ....I just couldnt concentrate ...so I could not imagine trying to do paperwork or teach before 6 weeks. This is all without any medical complications. I was very blessed to come through all this so well.

You will need someone with you at all times that first 2 weeks. My husband was with me at night. When he went to work at 6 am, we paid for home health care(RN/assistant) to come in from 8am until 4 to be with me. I did not have any family member available to help me except my mom who is 89 years old! It was the best thing I ever did. You will need help opening doors, opening the fridge door, opening pill bottles, bending over to pick up stuff, etc. I know you are young, but it makes no difference. The surgery is a BIG, BIG affect on your body and yet it is amazing how the body heals so quickly after such a surgery. I am now 8 weeks post op.

Hope this helps. You will do fine in getting everything organized. Everyone was amazed at how calm and organized I was before the surgery.
Laurie Baquol  Thanks for the response Carol, very informative. Hope you are doing great!
On December 5, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hi Laurie,
You will be your best guide post op. the first week you really are in a passive recovery state. The second week is better and probably by then third week you can do some work. Don't make fixed plans- they will go out the window. This AVR thing is HUGE! Much, much bigger than anticipated, at least that has been my experience.
For me, the recliner has been vital...I bought one off Craig's list for a few hundred dollars..it's zero gravity...has been a life saver. Wedge pillow systems work in bed too. Make sure you get the one for your knees so you don't slip down. I encourage you to drop everything and give yourself over to this experience. Arrange help in your home, meal delivery, company. You need it the first 2 weeks. That said, you will be more physically able...more independent..and will get back to life pretty soon!
Laurie Baquol  Thanks for the info Lynn! Luckily I will have someone with me at all times for the first few weeks. ... Read more
On December 5, 2013...
Mary Clare Skopek posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hi Laurie,
I didn't need the recliner at all. For the first week home I used the pull out couch and propped myself up with pillows...after that I was sleeping back in my bed and could even lay on my sides a little! I started doing some work from home to keep my mind occupied on November 15th and my surgery was Oct 24th. I felt I could have done it a lot sooner though! I was trying to just relax and enjoy the time off but my mind was bored. I returned to the physical office just this week but that was because my boss wouldn't let me back until now (making sure I was fully recovered). I felt I could have returned though around 3 weeks. I was able to drive again at week 4 with no discomfort. I tried at week 3 but it was still a little difficult turning the wheel. You'll do great, the first week is the hardest.
Laurie Baquol  Hi Mary, I appreciate the encouragement. Your post was exactly what I needed to release some of this ... Read more
On December 4, 2013...
Basia posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hi Laurie -- Congrats on graduating and the upcoming marriage!!! You have many wonderful adventures in your future!
I am much older than you - just turned 64. I had a heart murmur since I was very young. Was never told that I needed surgery, and then suddenly last June I was told that I was critical with arotic stenosis and needed surgery immediately. I was stunned, scared and every other feeling imaginable. I had a valve replacement on July 22. I won't say that surgery was easy, but it was way less of an ordeal then I expected. I know everyone is different, but for me, the greatest discomfort was in my neck and shoulders which caused me to have sleep issues. I stayed out of work (office job) for 6 weeks, but fine albeit a bit tired, when I went back. I just finished my cardiac rehab the day before Thanksgiving and feel great. Not 100% yet, but truly great. You'll do great, too.
Laurie Baquol  I can remember going to my annual check up and hearing this news of surgery and being completely emot ... Read more
On December 4, 2013...
Scott Carson posted a note for Laurie that says:
Laurie,

Thanks for sharing and good luck. My wife just received a diagnosis of Mitral Valve Prolapse with severe Regurgitation and is looking at surgical options. She's a bit 'nervous' so getting her to read your journal and see in gall the comments from those who have gone before you (and her) will in my mind be super helpful in her attitude.

Good luck and I'm sure you'll come through with flying colors. Now, if we could only switch your allegiance to the Nationals........

Scott (from Annapolis)
Laurie Baquol  The support and encouragement this site offers is incredible. I highly recommend Johns Hopkins as my ... Read more
On December 3, 2013...
Shelly Baquol posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hey Laurie...it is me Mom. Thanks for sharing these posts with me as it helps me to see you have a positive attitude. You so far have handled this stumbling block amazingly well. These posts help me also to prepare and to know what to expect for your recovery. Like I promised...I will be there for you at all times, before, during and after. Love you...you are a strong woman with much to look forward to in 2014.
On December 3, 2013...
Carole Charbonnier posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hi Laurie. As I started reading your "story" I felt an immediate kinship as I too was diagnosed as a kid. My story is posted if you feel like reading it under my name Carole Charbonnier. It is quite an extraordinary thing that happens when heart patients meet. So, even before your surgery welcome to the club!
Laurie Baquol  Thanks for the welcome, Carol! I will definitely check out your story.
On December 3, 2013...
Mollie Renforth posted a note for Laurie that says:
Laurie,
Sounds like you are strong, young and have a very positive attitude. You will do great! I had the Ross Procedure in August 2012 and the surgery and recovery went so well!
I was diagnosed with a bicuspid aorta as a child and my valve was stenotic, as well.
Congratulations on your upcoming marriage. Hope 2014 is wonderful. You will be in my prayers! This journal and the people on it are awesome-I have not been the best correspondent...but will forever be grateful to Adam and the wonderful fellow heart patients/friends on here.
Laurie Baquol  Thanks for the positive reinforcement and kind words! 2014 WILL be wonderful!
On December 3, 2013...
Anthony Fumo posted a note for Laurie that says:
Good luck Laurie you will be fine.You are in good Hands.My day has not come yet .I am bi cuspid arotic valve.i am 46 i found out when i was 30.I will be pulling for you for a speedy recvery.Your heart balve friend.Anthony
Laurie Baquol  Thanks so much Anthony.
On December 3, 2013...
Sharon M posted a note for Laurie that says:
I just found your Journal. Your surgery is scheduled on my 24th wedding anniversary. It's was a wonderful date to get married and will be a wonderful date to get you life back. Congratulations on your engagement:)
Laurie Baquol  Thanks so much Sharon, hope you have a wonderful 24th!
On December 3, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Laurie that says:
Healed heart, graduation and marriage. 2014 is looking pretty darn good for you. Now, if the Orioles would just win the world series next year...( oh, wait, I'm from Boston...)
Laurie Baquol  Let's not get too crazy over there...O's winning the world series? As much as I am a fan, they have a ... Read more
On December 3, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Laurie that says:
Very good. Positive attitude leads to positive results. You're going to do great.
On December 3, 2013...
Jenn posted a note for Laurie that says:
So good to see you be so positive, you will come through this with flying colours. I am recovering from an aortic valve replacement ,it is so motivating to read such an up beat journal like yours. Keep smiling and strong , looking forward to hearing about your recovery. :)
Laurie Baquol  I look forward to sharing my recovery! =) =)
On December 3, 2013...
Mary Clare Skopek posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hi Laurie,
I told myself I would go in with the same attitude and honestly when the day came I was more calm then I had been all month. I had my surgery almost 6 weeks ago and am doing great with the recovery. I'm about 90% back to normal already! I am only 28 and have an 18 month old son, my biggest struggle mentally was not being able to care for my little guy. I had a lot of people who came to help though and my son was absolutely fine! I was considered high risk for my pregnancy with him and am looking forward to not having that label anymore for future children. If you ever have any questions or just need to talk to someone feel free to outreach! I'll be praying all goes well for you and everyone else on this site!
Laurie Baquol  Your post means a lot! I look forward to reading your journal entries. I can only say that I am grate ... Read more
On December 3, 2013...
Michael LeBlanc posted a note for Laurie that says:
Welcome Laurie. I too am rather new to this site. In the short time that I have been visiting here I have gotten more encouragement and support than one could imagine. There are people here at all stages in the process and can truly understand as no one else can who hasn't faced this. Don't try to deal with it all at once. As a former cancer patient told me, "I can't do it all. But, I can do what is in front of me today." I have found this to be so true. Keep typing and keep putting one foot in front of the other. We are with you.
Laurie Baquol  Love the quote! Thanks for the encouragement and kind words. Best of luck to you!
On December 3, 2013...
Susan Smith posted a note for Laurie that says:
Laurie, I know you will do just fine. Take one day at a time and then post -op one step at a time.
On December 2, 2013...
Andrea Loeffler posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hi Laurie!
I 100% understand your thoughts...I am 5 weeks post op tomorrow from a mitral valve replacement and I am 34 years old. I had a very recent diagnosis and only found out a few hours after I gave birth to my son. It's all very taxing on the mind!

I am new to this site but everyone has been so welcoming and upbeat that I so wish I had engaged prior to the surgery.

One thing I can tell you is that my experience was very much without incident and was much easier than I thought it would be. I'm walking every day and have been since day 3...and you will be too. It's so hard to imagine right now but keep reading these inspiring folks stories, as will I, and we'll realize how blessed we all are to have overcome!!!

Wishing you the very best!!!
Laurie Baquol  Andrea, you are so sweet! At least you found such a site eventually. The surgery rush is not fun, yet ... Read more
On December 2, 2013...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Laurie that says:
Laurie,
Hi! This is Carol Jackson. Welcome to the website. I look forward to following your journal. I had my surgery Oct. 8 and this site was really helpful.
Laurie Baquol  Thanks for the welcome Carol. I cannot explain how grateful I am for finding such a site. Hope you ar ... Read more
On December 2, 2013...
Mary M. posted a note for Laurie that says:
My son had an aortic valve repair 3 years ago at age 24.. He di quite well and was back to work and school in 4 weeks. I will keep watching your great progress.
Laurie Baquol  Hi Mary, what wonderful news. I never thought at my age this would be happening, but everything happe ... Read more
On December 2, 2013...
Marci Stanwix posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hi Laurie,
From one newbie to another, welcome! I hope you feel as welcome as I have.
We can do this nervous waiting and recovery together as I am on December 10th and I have Aortic Stenosis.
Are you having your valve replaced and root repair too?
I know its hard, but keep taking one foot in front of the other until surgery.

Hugs!
Laurie Baquol  I feel very welcome! I am actually just have tissue removed that has almost completely closed my aort ... Read more
On December 2, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hey Laurie
Jim Jones here. Welcome to the community! It is great to have you aboard. You have a wonderful attitude. I agree with your doctor -attitude defines our recovery. Lynn, Dan, Ernie, Aubrey and I are just a few of the group that recently underwent surgery. We are all here to support one another. Please feel free to ask questions, share , vent, etc. That is the beauty of the group. We all are valve patients and we all want the best for one another. Welcome aboard! Best.
Laurie Baquol  Hi Jim. Thanks for the welcome. I am so relieved to have found such a site to be able to reach out to ... Read more
On December 2, 2013...
Dan Sinclair posted a note for Laurie that says:
First, sounds like you picked a good day, you will be kicking butt by Christmas Day.
Second pay no attention to Ernie, but do read his journal, he is a funny man. Jim Jones will also be signing in and you will want to read his journal as well, very informative as is Aubrey Jones, they are like brothers. There you go, this will be a piece of cake for you! Take Care.
Laurie Baquol  I hope to be kicking butt by Christmas! Trying to stay positive. I think all the holiday cheer is hel ... Read more
On December 2, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Laurie that says:
Hi Laurie,
Hang in there! Try not to panic. This surgery is very common and routine and you will do very well...your age will help!
I had my aortic valve replaced 4 weeks ago...found out about it all several months ago...quite a shock....no choice though!
I am feeling better and better now and so glad it's over!
Laurie Baquol  Thanks for the kind words Lynn. I had read through some of your journal and I look forward to reading ... Read more
On December 2, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Laurie that says:
Just wanted to say welcome to the website before Jim Jones, because that bastard's fast!
Laurie Baquol  Haha, thanks for the welcome!