On February 29, 2012...
Ok missy. You are ready. And will do great ! Boots or no boots. And no boots in the hospital !! By the way

Seriously if you have a girlie question. Call me. Please 314/276/1012. I know how important that is. I forget exact day of yours. What is it ??

Did you get our little book to put a smile on your face?

You will be amazed at how good you feel. It's worth it.

With Lov & thoughts. Nancy Friedman. St Louis.
Linda Dixon  Hey Nancy, I did just get your book out of the mailbox. Haven't read through it yet, but did read th ... Read more
On February 29, 2012...
Just stopping by to let you know you are in my thoughts and prayers. You are informed, have excellent surgeons, great attitude and all our prayers...you will do great!! Janis Kielbasa
Linda Dixon  Thanks Janis for your encouragement and prayers. The last few days have been a little rough, everyth ... Read more
On February 28, 2012...
Hi Linda. Just checking in to see how you are doing? I wanted to give you my email address in case you have any questions as it gets even closer for you.

I walked almost a mile today and I feel great!! You are going to be fine!!

Thinking about you

Jimmy Johnson
Jimmyjohnson26@gmail.com
Linda Dixon  Thanks Jimmy, glad to hear you are doing so well. I admit, the last couple of days have been tough, ... Read more
On February 27, 2012...
Hey Linda Just checking in with you. Making sure you are alright. Its going to be March pretty soon and I would think the butterflies are starting to kick in, hope not.Got a fake bill from hospital today. Tee test was $3900. I might just run medicare broke.lol. It was kind of a bummer. Glad I don't have to pay it. Well talk to ya later. Saying prayers for you.
For the long haul
Linda H
Linda Dixon  LInda, you think the cost of the TEE is bad? Wait til you have a heart cath. Mine was just shy of $1 ... Read more
On February 27, 2012...
Hello Linda! Glad to see you'll be comfortable in recovery. It's getting closer. I'm going to google "cleveland clinic guided imagery statement". Havent seen it yet. Isnt it amazing about Jimmy? Keep positive! Steph Cole
Linda Dixon  Stephanie, glad you had a good vacation. You should have a packet from Cleveland Clinic. It has the ... Read more
On February 26, 2012...
Linda,
Check out this link: http://www.healthjourneys.com/kaiser/download/download_successfulSurgery.asp

See if you can download these. In particular listen to the "Imagery for surgery"

Jeff Shebovsky
On February 24, 2012...
You're cool Linda. Just stay the course. Focus on the positive. I found this affirmation below online and I am going to use it. By the way, I won't lie to you. Stretch the truth maybe. But lie?, No. :) - Jeff Shebovsky

Surgery Affirmation

My surgery keeps me healthy, strong and alive and in radiant health.

The intelligence of my body is working at the full capacity for my greatest good and wellbeing.

I go through surgery with ease and surrender, knowing that all the angelic forces are with me.

Every cell, system and organ in my body is operating effectively and efficiently for my healing.

I know that the surgeon and medical personnel are divinely guided and supported and I know that the outcome is perfect.

I love and support my body and I know that acceptance and healing grow greater every day.

As I surrender to this surgery, I know that I am supported on every level.
Linda Dixon  Thanks Jeff, this is very similar to the Cleveland Clinic guided imagery statement. I should have it ... Read more
On February 24, 2012...
Linda

All of your feelings are so normal, you don't know what to expect because you've never done this before. The not knowing how you will feel after is really scary. But in some way's its better to not know. It is painful, but the medication they give you for pain will ease that alot, and each day it gets better and better. Even though it's painful, you can and will do it and you will get through it...it will only last a little while and pretty soon you will be back to your normal feeling self! I can tell from your posts that you are such a strong and postive person. Being positive and having the right attitude before and after you go in definitely help with the healing process. You will do so good! You're in my thoughts daily!

Jamie McGuire
Linda Dixon  Hi Jamie, you know, the real deal can't possibly be any worse than my "imagination". I am not afraid ... Read more
On February 24, 2012...
I know you would not take me up on the offer, but I am making it anyway. You are welcome to come to me for a few weeks after surgery. I would suggest that you set up visits from friends at intervals during the first weeks home. You will welcome the company. It also helps to have someone to take little walks with. I know I am happy when someone tells me what they need. It makes me feel like I am making a difference, not just dropping off flowers.
Jane
Linda Dixon  Jane, thank you so much for your kind offer. That is really going above and beyond! I left out the ... Read more
On February 23, 2012...
Its Jane again. I never clicked on your photos before. I see why Eddie was the love of your life. You have a beautiful family.
Linda Dixon  Hi Jane, thank you! My Eddie was very handsome, he actually was undergoing chemo when that picture wa ... Read more
On February 23, 2012...
Hi Linda,
I do not lie about important things (maybe about my weight or how many cookies I ate), I can honestly tell you that pain was not an issue for me. I had the full monty, but the incision was never a problem. I did not have a terrible time in the hospital. My memories of waking up through going home are absolutely clear and not a bad memories. My recovery was just that, a recovery. I wore comfy clothes, watched a lot of daytime T.V. When I started to walk, I walked around my backyard until I felt ready to hit the road. I progressed to my local H.S. track. The medications I had to take did not have side effects or I just didn't feel them. I went to a Christmas party about 10 days post-op. I sat a lot and left after about 2 hours. I found that 2 hours was about how long I could go before I felt tired. I knew at 3 weeks post-op that I could return to work at 4 weeks. I work part time in an elementary school (office). I forgot to mention that in that time I had a bout with A-fib, but that did not alter my pace. I promise you that it was not as bad as you anticipate.
It is not like someone saying childbirth doesn't hurt. That does hurt. This is very, very different.
You will do just fine.
Jane
On February 23, 2012...
Hi Linda,

My pre-surgery experience was different. I learned I needed surgery on August 4th, and had surgery on September 14th. I was very comfortable with a local surgeon who was really just starting out. Once I got over the shock of needing surgery, although I was obviously worried, I was so busy making arrangements and getting ready that I did not have much time for anything else.

After the surgery, there was pain and discomfort and issues that came up and needed resolution. For a short while, I was questioning whether it was the right thing to have had the surgery, but that was short lived. Things do get better, in many ways a lot better. I have made a concentrated effort to continue my exercises after I finished the rehab program. Overall, I feel better than I have in a long time.

The next two weeks will go by quickly and you will have your surgery and be in recovery sharing your experiences.

The best is yet to come!

John Lund
Linda Dixon  Thanks John, I'm not expecting a cake walk, but am just ready to get on with life. Hope you are still ... Read more
On February 23, 2012...
You guys are to much. I told Mitch I was here to cheer everyone on for a while. So I had to give three cheers to his wife. He is so funny.

Personally I think men arent lying they are avoiding all those things you are feeling. I have already had those as you know. I say the butterflies turn in to moths it gets so bad, so Linda you are normal Ok see ya later LInda H.
Linda Dixon  Hey Linda, yes Mitch is crazy funny! I'm serious, I'm gonna have to stay off this site while I recove ... Read more
On February 23, 2012...
You go girl!!!! Love the sentiment already. You know life is going to change. You will be fixed physically and take steps to mend emotionally. Glad you finally heard Eddie yelling for you to get off your a@@ and make the most out of life.

Tears in my eyes cheering you on. So, you know what you are going to do with this one fantastic life we have been given. All I can say, is go girl, go. Go get fixed, join the gym, scream until you are horse at the football games. Live life again. No better way to thank your surgeons!

Sounds like you are ready my friend. Keep the faith!

Now, as to your conspiracy theory about this being. Ad and us all lying. No that is for pregnancy as a safety mechanism for us to constantly procreate. None of us want to go through this again. We have been honest, when you wake up from surgery you will feel like Janis drove an 18 wheeler over you. BUT, it is all manageable. Like us, you will get through it just fine and manage well. But, no way you will love it so much much you will say, 'gee, that was fun, let's go again.'. So there is the truth.

Lots more laughter coming in next two weeks, then I will tone it down, nah......

-Mitch Friedman
Linda Dixon  Wow, wow, wow, funny (not funny haha, funny omg) you should mention that. I haven't shared this befo ... Read more
On February 23, 2012...
Dear Linda the Tiger,

Just checking in on you and see that you have just two weeks to wait. I hope that it is MUCH easier than you are imagining! I know my surgery was quite a bit better than I dared to think it might be.

The morning after I was released from CC, I got on the phone and cancelled the lift chair which I had been planning to rent and I never had pain when laughing or coughing. I was somewhat cautious but, as I look back, I can't remember any feeling of pain. Such is the wonder of minimally invasive surgery! Hope you are that lucky!!! Going to CC is a big step in the right direction!

I went in to the experience thinking I would feel horrid for a month and then I would put my mind to getting better. As it was, I never felt horrid and I was up and at 'em immediately. I commend you for your attitude that you are going to use this operation as an impetus to get out of your shell. I have regarded my surgery as a second chance that I have to make the most of. That outlook influences a lot of the choices I make!

Will be thinking of you and know you will do just great. AND I'm NOT lying!

Anne Shannon
Linda Dixon  Hi Anne, thanks for the post on my journal. Dr. Gillinov said he believes he will be able to do the ... Read more
On February 23, 2012...
Hi, I feel like it has been ages since I checked in on you. Just want you to know I am thinking about you. Hope the days are passing quickly and your foot is on mend. Your day will be here before you know it and we will all rally around you like you have done for us.

Much love my friend,
-Mitch Friedman
On February 22, 2012...
Hey Linda Glad your foot is getting better. I was just wondering have you heard any more from Kelly? I have been thinking about her, just wondering.
Guess I am getting off here a storm is coming in and I hear thunder once in a while. You have a good day and talk to ya later.
Until Much Later LInda H
On February 22, 2012...
Hi Linda--I'm so glad you're able to return it! I got to thinking--my Dad, who just passed away, struggled with Parkinson's and my stepmom got him a wonderful lift chair--but it took several tries to get it right (getting chairs and having to return them). He finally got one that was soft; I sat in it and loved it. If you want, I can ask my stepmom what kind it is….I would have earlier but you had already bought one, so I thought it was too late. But if you have your "recliner of your dreams"--lol!--that's fine too. I think that will probably work just as well. My husband, who's had valve surgery once, said he didn't want to get a recliner, but I think he's just saying it because we have so much furniture already! Anyway, he managed without one last time, but I think having a recliner or a lift would be a great advantage in comfort.
On February 22, 2012...
Hi Linda! I was writing cause my mom talks about you to me all the time. I see your messages on her journal to.. Just wanted to say thanks for help keeping my moms hope and spirits going. You have helped my mom (Linda) along the way. She said she would love to meet you someday. :)
Also wanted to tell you good luck on your heart surgery in March. I will also be keeping you in my prayers and thoughts.
I have had open heart surgery myself when i was 29 years old. Head to have a mechanical valve put in my aortic valve. March 2nd will be 3 years and Im not doing to bad. Get a little pain in my chest that I need to talk to my doc about for check up coming up pretty soon. Its probably nothing and it could just be by stress. But otherwise heart wise im not doing to bad.
Have 3 young kids to chase around all the time that keep me going even through the heart surgery.
You are right about all the worrying when you have to sit and wait to get to the other side of the mountain. It does get better when its done and over with. i just tell people to hold on to that pillow tight afterwards when you cough and sneeze. Doesnt help a ton but a little. That is my biggest tip and just to push yourself and make yourself do what you need to get out of that bed after surgery. dont overdo though. Good luck!
Prayin for you.

Stephanie
Linda Dixon  Thank you Stephanie for your kind words. I know how overwhelming it is when you first learn you prob ... Read more
On February 21, 2012...
Jeff - Linda. You both will notice a soulful calmness that will come over you just a few days before. Not sure what. But something does pop up and take over - you will be a peace - and all will be well.

Mark my words! let it take over - release- and engage
It's beautiful. Talk soon. Hugs. Nancy. (2-9-12 it's OVER) Got the OK to fly to keys Thursday so will spend a week or so there. Not too shabby. ! Even bought a recliner ( power) for that condo too. Ha ha) Luv. Nancy
Linda Dixon  Hey Nancy...now that' deep!!! A soulful calmness...wow...that will be nice!
So, tomorrow you are he ... Read more
On February 21, 2012...
Thanks for the tip on the recliner Linda--it helps; I hope you can use yours and it isn't too uncomfortable!
Linda Dixon  I'm returning it!! They said I can bring it back! I did find another one today at a different store ... Read more
On February 21, 2012...
Hey guess I missed a post. Glad to hear your Grand daughter is going to Clemson. I have a Grand daughter going some where. She has 16 collages to choose from so not sure which one she will go to.She had told me maybe one over by Myrtle Beach but cant remember the name. She is waiting for a real nice schlorship from the Navy also.

I will be looking forward to all of us meeting someplace. My email is lmyrrah@charter.net Looking forward to it.
Linda H
On February 21, 2012...
Hi Linda,

The time is just around the corner and I will be prayering for you. Thanks for all of your prayers and support. God will see you through. :-)

Take care Carmen
Linda Dixon  Thanks so much Carmen. Hope you are still doing well. I'm pretty good right now, we'll see how long ... Read more
On February 21, 2012...
Linda--hi--it's Donna Smith--what style and brand recliner did you get? Just wondering. We have so much furniture I don't know where we'd put it, but I think it might be a good idea to get one...
Linda Dixon  Hi Donna, my recliner is a CatNapper lift recliner. I'm not sure I like it. The problem with the li ... Read more
On February 21, 2012...
Hey Linda,
It seems like church always speaks to you before something major happens. You have the best doctor and the best hospital; your surgery is going to go wonderfully! You will be in and out in no time and in the recliner lift, =0)
April Crocker
Linda Dixon  Hey April, I joke (not so much) with my pastor and tell him one Sunday I'm gonna go to church and he' ... Read more
On February 21, 2012...
Ok great Linda- I saved all of
Your info and will be looking for you! Thanks
On February 21, 2012...
Hi Linda! So glad to hear your message. We are truly our words. You will be amazing, I will be amazing-right after you! We will be strong. We will feel comfort and safety. I am excited to meet you. Just knowing you'll be at C.C. brings me comfort.
You arrive 3/9? When is surgery date again? 3/12?
I fly in 3/13 (late) and begin pre-op in am. Surgery 3/15. My doctor is Stewart; pediatrics. I will look for you in the am on 3/14 before testing. I want to make sure I have your dates in my phone. I will pull up email with cell too. Keep smiling! Stephanie Cole
Linda Dixon  Hi Stephanie! I arrive in Cleveland on 3/8 in the afternoon. Testing on 3/9 and 3/12, surgery on 3/1 ... Read more
On February 21, 2012...
Ongratultions to your grnanddaughter. Go Tigers.... Clemon is a beautiful place. My husband used to live on Rigby Drive. Those hills should get your heart beating quite rapidly. Lol
Linda Dixon  So he lived in Clemson...how in the world did he move away?? Who is this by the way? Remembering to ... Read more
On February 20, 2012...
LOL!!
JEFF SHEBOVSKY (the absent minded journal poster who keeps forgetting to sign his name)
Linda Dixon  :-) Guilty myself sometimes, lol!

Linda
On February 20, 2012...
Great! It is basically guided imagery. As for the 5 Million bucks....share the wealth!
Linda Dixon  To quote a very dear Chiropractor friend: "Who are you??"" Lol.
Good night Jeff :-)

Linda
On February 20, 2012...
Linda,

Yes, you will do this. There is a large group of people ahead of us that know we will get through it. There's even a longer line behind us depending on us to help them once we're on the other side.

You're about 13 days ahead of me. I look forward to joining you on the other side so that we can offer the help that the "old timers" have offered us.

Wonder how may I'll offend with the "old timers" comment!!
Linda Dixon  Well, I don't know who this is....but personally I will be so grateful to survive the surgery I WONT ... Read more
On February 20, 2012...
Hi Linda, I have been keeping up with your journals and I know you are ready to have this done and start recovering. Yes, I agree a positive attitude is key in recovery. You have that, plus a loving family, friends and a caring church so you will do amazing! That chair will be well used. Good purchase!! I have you in my thoughts and prayers. Janis Kielbasa
Linda Dixon  Thanks Janis, I figured why not??? I plan to live to be a very old lady and may need it again for jus ... Read more
On February 20, 2012...
I am just a little bit closer than you, now at 15 days!. I feel what you feel, day in and day out. Force that good attitude and make it a habit. It is hard to not let those bad thoughts creep in but we have to fight it all we can. Do you have Peggy Huddleston's book and CD? If not rush it. DO IT NOW! I got it sent 2 day from Amazon, Her is Peggy's website for more info:http://www.healfaster.com/index.html

Jeff Shebovsky
Linda Dixon  Okay Jeff, I just ordered the book and CD. Actually the CD sounds very much like the guided imagery ... Read more
On February 20, 2012...
Hey Im still hanhing in here and keeping up with all of the posts. Think I am going to post tonight in journal. Hey guess what your are getting closer lol. I was thinking after we all get to be bionic, if you are ever in this neck of the woods and Ricki Shine, I think we all should meet some place and be like the 3 muskateers.Whatcha think? She lives in Greenville and I guess you like Clemson and I go to Anderson a lot. I think it would be fun.
Until Later LInda H
Linda Dixon  That is a great idea Linda. As a matter of fact, my grandaughter is going to Clemson in the fall and ... Read more
On February 20, 2012...
Hi Again,

Forgot to put my name on the last message.
Stephanie
D--%--RoSe
Linda Dixon  Great Stephanie that you are getting Adam's book. I think I have read it in entirety 3 times. It is ... Read more
On February 20, 2012...
Hi Linda,

Thanks for the warm welcome! At my last appointment (which really was my first appointment at Emory).The doctor(Dr. McConnell) ran test like EKG,ECHO, and just gave me a breif summary of my condition and diagnoses. He told me that I would have to have surgery again and that it wasn't urgent right now but something to consider in the near future. I.have another appointment in two weeks so I will see what, if anything has changed. Every since he told me I would need surgery ive been searching the internet for answers. I plan on purchasing Adams book very soon,I see how it has helped so many others prepare themselves for surgery.
On February 19, 2012...
Hi Linda,

Thank you for the news update on Kelly! I have read some of her journal, and it is definitely time for something good to go her way.

John Lund
Linda Dixon  Yes John, Kelly has definitely had her share and then some. So grateful she seems to be turning the ... Read more
On February 18, 2012...
Wonderful news about Kelly. I haven't seen any news so was quite concerned.

She is a very special person.

JAn B.
Linda Dixon  Yes Jan, Kelly seems to be a very sweet young woman who has had more than her share of problems. So ... Read more
On February 18, 2012...
Hey That is great news about Kelly. I have been thinking about her a lot. So now we might be hearing some good things to come. Thanks for the update. Thinking about you too. Saying prayers tomorrow for everyone.
Until Later Linda H
Linda Dixon  Hi Linda, how are you doing? Yes, it is wonderful about Kelly. I have been very concerned about her ... Read more
On February 18, 2012...
Awesome news on Kelly. Thanks for finding that and letting us know
Jeff Shebovsky
Linda Dixon  Just goes to show...you don't post in your journal...I WILL track you down!

Linda
On February 18, 2012...
Thanks so much for the news on Kelly Nugent!
Linda Dixon  You're welcome, so happy to finally hear some good news!

Linda
On February 18, 2012...
HI linda,
Thank you for that update on Kelly. I have been thinking about her everyday. I hope you are doing well with that foot of yours. Your getting closer and closer.
Enjoy the weekend.
Jane
Linda Dixon  Hi Jane, yes it was great to finally hear something about Kelly. She sure has been through it, way m ... Read more
On February 18, 2012...
Great news. Thanks for keeping us updated.

-Mitch Friedman
Linda Dixon  As I told Jeff...you don't post in your journal...I WILL track you down!

:-) Linda
On February 18, 2012...
Thank you for the update on Kelly.

And, how are you doing with your foot fracture????

Sheila Garrison
Linda Dixon  Isn't it great about Kelly? She has had many, many people she will never know praying for her! The f ... Read more
On February 17, 2012...
Hi Linda,
That's exactly how Jim's feeling too (me too)--wanting it to be over with yesterday! It will all go well, it's just the waiting; Jim had this done before and recovered fairly quickly.
God bless,
Donna
Linda Dixon  Thanks Donna for your encouragement. Everyone says that the waiting was the hardest part. Now time ... Read more
On February 17, 2012...
Ouch--sounds painful Linda…maybe for exercise you can do leg lifts and strengthening? That's what I'm (supposed to be) doing for my bum left knee! I actually do it some of the time. :) Take it easy though--see what the doctor says before trying anything.
Thinking and praying,
Donna (Jim Smith's wife)
Linda Dixon  Hi Donna, actually my foot doesn't hurt to much as long as I have it wrapped and wear tennis shoes. ... Read more
On February 16, 2012...
Hi Linda,

This is my first guestbook to sign. My husband will be having a mitral valve reparied by Dr. Gillinov in July ( put it off two months because of golf and family vacations) and i just wanted you to know I will be adding you to my prayer list. Also, after MUCH, MUCH, MUCH research and recs, just know you have the BEST doctor. We were willing to go anywhere, did ALL our own research, and you have selected the place and person to do your surgery.
I do strongly recommend you read his book 411 Heart. I won't post much, but will be reading every post youmake.

Stay postivie, you make great decisions.
Linda Dixon  Hello Newbie! You did not sign your post, so I don't know who you are, but...I totally agree! I also ... Read more
On February 16, 2012...
Can't believe this. Did I mention cold laser helps speed fracture healing? It works really well. I know, you live in a small town and its hard to find someone who does this?
Jeff Shebovsky
Linda Dixon  Spot on Jeff! Very small town, nobody offers the cold laser, at least according to my chiropractor. ... Read more
On February 16, 2012...
Glad that it isn't worse or will postpone your long awaited surgery date Linda. When it rains, it pours as the old saying goes!! You will work through this hurdle sucessfully....soon you will be on the other side of all recovery...foot and heart. Keep smiling...what else can we do? Have to keep our sense of humor and love on each other for sure. Hope your day is blessed and rich....make lemonade our of lemons. Like you said it is good new...no major break but not so good news with a fracture. Bless you dear one!! Jamie Todor
Linda Dixon  Thank you Jamie, you are such a dear, always say what makes my "heart" feel better. My foot actually ... Read more
On February 16, 2012...
Hi Linda,

Hope your foot heels fast, hairline fractures are no fun. Take it easy and I'll be praying for you.

Cindy
Linda Dixon  Thanks Cindy, my foot already feels better actually. And please do keep me in your prayers. I'm oka ... Read more
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