On February 16, 2012...

Hi Linda,

Relax the next couple of weeks. Take it easy on that foot. Will be thinking about you.

Jimmy Johnson

Linda Dixon Thanks Jimmy, I am following the doctor's orders. My foot actually feels better already. I am think ... Read more

Linda Dixon Thanks Jimmy, I am following the doctor's orders. My foot actually feels better already. I am thinking of and praying for you as you day gets closer.

Linda

On February 16, 2012...

Hi Linda,
Well at least you have something else to think about. So sorry for you. I hope it is not too painful. What doesn't kill us, makes us stronger.
Jane

Linda Dixon Thanks Jane, guess I must be VERY strong! My foot actually already feels better. I think if I don't ... Read more

Linda Dixon Thanks Jane, guess I must be VERY strong! My foot actually already feels better. I think if I don't mess anything up it won't be a problem. It really doesn't hurt as long as I have shoes on.
Hope you are still progressing well!
Linda

On February 16, 2012...

Hi Linda!

Sorry to hear about your foot but at least it won't interfere with your surgery or recovery. It's an excuse to rest up and pamper yourself for the next few week.

Any news for your grandaughter from Tigertown?? I hope she'll be coming this way!

Less than 3 weeks!!! (I found those last weeks flew by.)

Ricki

Linda Dixon Hi Ricki, I don't need much reason to rest up, lol! I did want to do some walking prior to surgery, b ... Read more

Linda Dixon Hi Ricki, I don't need much reason to rest up, lol! I did want to do some walking prior to surgery, but my foot is actually feeling better. It doesn't hurt any more as long as I have sturdy shoes on.

No Brittany hasn't heard anything yet, she runs to the mailbox every day. Some kids got their letter last Saturday, so maybe she will hear something tomorrow. She is going to be heartbroken if she isn't accepted. She would make any university a great student, (wink, wink). I will let you know if we will be coming to Tigertown (I told her I would have to go with her, lol).

Do you know of some way I can slow time down now?? Yes...this is me...would be whiner about surgery being so far away...it's getting too close and blink...it will be here!!!

Can I change my mind???
Goooo Tigers!!!!

On February 15, 2012...

Hope foot feels better lady. That shouldn't BE a problem. I wouldn't think.

Look u have had a great run up ( pardone the pun ) so keep up the good work.

Get thee to. Beach wood mall & I promise all will BE ok. Careful ! Hug. Nanc

Linda Dixon Hey Nancy, my foot does feel better actually. Hope you are progressing well and look forward to hear ... Read more

Linda Dixon Hey Nancy, my foot does feel better actually. Hope you are progressing well and look forward to hearing from you soon!

REALLY getting closer....Linda

On February 15, 2012...

It is amazing what some people will do to get out of exercise to prer for surgery!!!! Hang tough, Linda, stay off the foot. All will be fine. -Mitch Friedman

Linda Dixon Hey man...I'm trying!!! Foot didn't work...any good ideas???

REALLY getting closer...Linda

On February 15, 2012...

Lots of great places to go & he Cleveland Museum off Art is incredible! Plenty of restaurant choices.

Look forward to hearing from you again.

Audrey

On February 15, 2012...

Think about it....it's 3 weeks until surgery, then 2 -3 weeks of rest with mininal walking and then your foot is healed.
Maybe it was somebody's way of making sure you take it easy? Hmmm, I wonder????

You're a hoot, Linda. Keep the positive thoughts in you.

Love,
Sheila

Linda Dixon Sheila, I wish I could say it takes a lot to get me to take it easy....but it doesn't take much, lol. ... Read more

Linda Dixon Sheila, I wish I could say it takes a lot to get me to take it easy....but it doesn't take much, lol. Although, I will say, it's funny... didn't REALLY want to walk until told NOT to walk, lol. Think that means anything??? Probably just means I'm not worth a hoot!!!!

REALLY getting closer...Linda

On February 15, 2012...

Glad it isn't any worse than that. No I can't see you walking the halls in a cast, could make to be a big problem. You take care and be careful.
Until Later Linda H

Linda Dixon Thanks Linda, I'm not there yet, still have time to do a lot of damage! Will try to be careful! Actu ... Read more

Linda Dixon Thanks Linda, I'm not there yet, still have time to do a lot of damage! Will try to be careful! Actually the foot feels better already.

On February 15, 2012...

Hi Linda,

To bad about your foot. Any idea of how long it will take to heal? You would not be able to walk much initially after your surgery, but it would have been good to do more walking ahead of time.

The next three weeks will go by quickly, before you know it you will have had the surgery and be in recovery.

Take care,

John Lund

Linda Dixon No John, I don't know how long it will take, but the doc told me to come back in 10 days for repeat x ... Read more

Linda Dixon No John, I don't know how long it will take, but the doc told me to come back in 10 days for repeat xray, so I guess he thinks there should be some change by then.

Time is really flying by now...I think I want to turn around and go back,lol!

Hope you are feeling good today,

Linda

On February 15, 2012...

Hi Linda:

I received your message on my Guestbook Journal.

You are right, I should have done what you did however I was told there was an astronomical fee for copies of the films, etc., but no charge if sent directly to a physician, plus, they kept telling me they sent the records but never did! Live and learn!

Please feel free to e-mail me at schmida6@gmail.com. I live about 1/2 hour away from the Clinic. Please let me know if I can help you or your family out in any way!

Dr. Gillinov is the best and I believe will be worth the wait! We will be in great hands!

Audrey

Linda Dixon Sorry you got such a run-a-round. In reality they can charge a MINIMAL fee (not to exceed $25), but ... Read more

Linda Dixon Sorry you got such a run-a-round. In reality they can charge a MINIMAL fee (not to exceed $25), but I wasn't charged anything for any of my records. The facility I used doesn't charge if you pick it up yourself.

I agree Dr. Gillinov is worth the wait, I have been waiting since November. So I'm ready to get it over with. Unfortunately I will have to be in Cleveland for 5 nights before surgery. I have echo, ekg, labs on Friday, meet with Dr. G on Monday and surgery on Tuesday. I may ask for suggestions on places for my daughter and I to go over the weekend, etc. You are fortunate to live so close, I will be coming from SC.

So....its getting closer faster now. I'm nervous, but ready. Will keep in touch.

Linda

On February 14, 2012...

Yes, LInda the before side of surgery is sooo scary even when God's peace is with you. So much unknown even though Adam's book is totally wonderful at getting you prepared for the different steps of this whole thing. The best thing is waking up and having it all behind you....and knowing you are going to work but the worst part is over....the surgery is over and it was successful. It is much, much better being on the healing side. Hang in there...you are almost there. Anxious to hear about your foot....you sure had to make things even more spicy with the foot injury! LOL....and the story continues:):)...Hugs from afar!

Linda Dixon Is this Jamie??? Yes, it is scary, can't wait for it to be over. My foot is actually already feeling ... Read more

Linda Dixon Is this Jamie??? Yes, it is scary, can't wait for it to be over. My foot is actually already feeling better I think. Leave it to me...just hope I don't break my neck..on the other hand....might get me out of surgery...hmmmmm. No...guess not!

Hugs back at you!

On February 14, 2012...

Hi Linda! Just wanted to wish you a Happy Valentine's Day from Clemson. I hope you're feeling good. Not much longer . . .!

Ricki

Linda Dixon Thanks Ricki, Happy Valentine's Day to you too! I am okay, I've done something to my foot, going to ... Read more

Linda Dixon Thanks Ricki, Happy Valentine's Day to you too! I am okay, I've done something to my foot, going to the doctor tomorrow, hoping it is just a sprain, but suspecting a stress fracture. Is it cold in Tigertown? My grandaughter is hoping to get a "you're headed to Tigertown" letter this week. Her boyfriend already got his. She didn't do especially well on her SAT, did better on the ACT, sure hope she gets in, don't want her heart to be broken. (Mine either, lol). But we'll see. I guess you are still doing well? I am thinking about and praying for Kelly Nugent, she is just having a terrible time. She must really be a fighter. So...I started counting the days today...23 before I leave for Cleveland! So it really is
getting close! Stay well and still hoping to meet you in person come fall!
Gooooo Tigers!!!!
Linda

On February 13, 2012...

Hey Linda, everything will be fine. You are our prayer warrior and we will be praying for you as you go through this chapter in your life. The butterflies are always there because this is a great challenge,but we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

Your HVJ friend Robert Hartner

Linda Dixon Robert, you are so right, I get all my strength from Christ, without him I would have given up a long ... Read more

Linda Dixon Robert, you are so right, I get all my strength from Christ, without him I would have given up a long time ago. I have called on him for some of the "silliest" things and the most difficult times in my life...and he never fails me. I know I will be okay, just ready to get it over with, but still trusting in His time....mine is not always right, lol. Thanks for the prayers.
Getting closer...Linda

On February 13, 2012...

You WILL be so glad when you get on the other side of this....it is amazing one you are on the recovery side just knowing that worst part is behind you. I am not saying that recovery is always easy but what a relief to move out of the surgery stage and onto the healing stage. You will do great. Lots of new and old friends praying for a great surgery and recovery. Praying for your poor foot too....you don't need that for sure. Hugs and don't forget....you will do just great. Keep the faith. Hugs. Jamie Todor

Linda Dixon Jamie, I am REALLY looking forward to that other side!!!!! I'm not liking this side so much, lol! Wil ... Read more

Linda Dixon Jamie, I am REALLY looking forward to that other side!!!!! I'm not liking this side so much, lol! Will let you know about the foot, go to the doctor tomorrow. Hoping he will just put me in a boot even if it is a stress fracture. Pray it's just a sprain!
Hugs back to you sweet lady!
Linda

On February 13, 2012...

Linda ,Thank You very much for the warm welcome.Clevland clinic is one of the best places in the world.I will be praying for you good luck and keep me posted.Also let me know who your surgeon is,you new friend .Anthony Fumo

Linda Dixon Yes Anthony, I know! I started researching years ago, determined pretty quickly that I wanted Clevela ... Read more

Linda Dixon Yes Anthony, I know! I started researching years ago, determined pretty quickly that I wanted Cleveland Clinic when the time came. I am also fortunate to have Dr. Marc Gillinov as my surgeon. Everyone I have had contact with there has been great. Basically all I have to do is show up (well...that's actually the hard part, lol). Thanks for the prayers...God is good...he listens!
Your new friend...Linda

On February 13, 2012...

Linda,
Stay strong. You'll be fine. Just keep moving.
Cindy

Linda Dixon Hi Cindy...I'm moving...I'm trying...I can do it!

Getting closer...Linda Dixon

On February 13, 2012...

Sorry Linda. It's Cindy Kenward. I forgot to sign.

Linda Dixon I have to watch that too Cindy! I see you are still doing great! You are quite the inspiration, altho ... Read more

Linda Dixon I have to watch that too Cindy! I see you are still doing great! You are quite the inspiration, although, I think I am not going to hold myself up to your experience, I think you are somewhat the exception, not the rule!!! Thanks for being a friend.

Linda

On February 13, 2012...

I am continuing to pray for you. Get Er done. It will be ok. It's not that bad. I know how scared you are. I was very scared too.

Linda Dixon Thanks for the prayers (whoever you are, lol). There can never be too many. I'm counting on what ev ... Read more

Linda Dixon Thanks for the prayers (whoever you are, lol). There can never be too many. I'm counting on what everyone says, it's not that bad. Thanks for the encouragement.

Getting closer...Linda Dixon

On February 13, 2012...

Hi Linda - Sorry it took me so long to post. Hang in there. Good days and bad days. I have those I can face the world moment to I just want to curl up in the corner and cry. I just keep reminding self..That I could know nothing about this then one day collapse..Don't want that to happen.

I do know about it and I also know we can be fixed..I just keep coming coming back to that. We can be fixed and get back to living. I think that is what really helps fight through the fear.

hang in there. We are all thinking about you..Wont be much longer and I will give you a play by play.

Jimmy Johnson

Linda Dixon Yes Jimmy...I feel exactly the same way. So glad that I have "you guys" to understand. Friends and ... Read more

Linda Dixon Yes Jimmy...I feel exactly the same way. So glad that I have "you guys" to understand. Friends and family are great...but they don't really understand. Only those that have gone before us or with us do. Your day is coming fast, so I'm guessing the back and forth may be increasing as well. I don't know about you, but I'll just be glad to hear those words "okay, we're gonna give you a little something to help you relax" and then next "Jimmy (Linda) you're done, the surgery is over and you did great". Hang in there friend, I'm with you!

Getting closer...Linda Dixon

On February 12, 2012...

Hi Linda, This is Linda. I guess its my turn, I was being a big baby about Tee test and you told me I could do it. Well its my turn now. You can do it too. After all I have been telling all of my friends that you are my rock. I just wish I lived a little closer to you so I could give you a big hug, and share those tears. You and all the others are in my prayers and thoughts. I hope your foot gets better fast. Oh by the way, You might want to call airline and get assistance like a wheel chair espically for return home. CLE is a pretty big airport and the walk can be a little far. Right now my nerves I think are on vacation lol until the next hurdle of who know what.
Until Later Linda H

Linda Dixon Sunday, February 12, 2012 08:18 PM
Linda, you are too kind. I know we will both get through this, eve ... Read more

Linda Dixon Sunday, February 12, 2012 08:18 PM
Linda, you are too kind. I know we will both get through this, even though we have moments when we wonder. I think I am going to the doctor with my foot, I really think it might be a stress fracture. Cleveland Clinic will make all the arrangements for me in the airport and also have a limousine pick us up to carry us to the hotel. They do everything for you, make hotel reservations, airline tickets, etc. Basically all I have to do is give them credit card number and then show up, lol. First part is easy, showing up...not so much, lol. Take care...we can do this!!!

Getting closer...Linda D

On February 11, 2012...

Hi Linda, lol! about the Friday the 13th! I know what you mean about the butterflies, even though I'm not the patient but the patient's wife. This community is really a great resource; we can know we're not alone. It's amazing what they can do these days and how many people have heart operations. I won't say it's routine, but it does help to know that many people have gone through it and come out with their health and strength back! God bless, Donna

On February 11, 2012...

Hi Linda,
Please take care of your foot. You might need an x-ray. Waiting sucks, but waiting in pain is worse.Always thinking about you and wishing the days go by as fast as you want them to.
Jane

Linda Dixon Thanks Jane, I guess I will go to the doctor Monday. Maybe even if it is a stress fracture they will ... Read more

Linda Dixon Thanks Jane, I guess I will go to the doctor Monday. Maybe even if it is a stress fracture they will just put a boot on or something. I do have osteoporosis and had a stress fracture of my tibia several years ago.

Thank you for your well wishes...the question is...how fast do I want the days to go by?? LOL!

Hope you are doing well!

Getting closer...Linda

On February 11, 2012...

Don't worry, you are informed, have excellent surgeons, great attitude and all of us sending good vibes and prayers your way. You will do great and be great!! Janis Kielbasa

Linda Dixon Hey Janis, I know all this to be true...I just have to keep reminding myself and when I fail at that. ... Read more

Linda Dixon Hey Janis, I know all this to be true...I just have to keep reminding myself and when I fail at that...you guys are always right there to remind me. What would I have done without HVJ friends? How is rehab?...really.

Getting closer...Linda

On February 11, 2012...

I found the process involved in planning for heart valve surgery can take on a life of it's own and can be all consuming.

Linda Dixon This is so true! My brain has two sides that work at the same time: 1 side deals with everything else ... Read more

Linda Dixon This is so true! My brain has two sides that work at the same time: 1 side deals with everything else, 1 side is totally consumed by heart valve surgery! Who is this? Have you already had surgery or are you still planning?

Getting closer...Linda

On February 11, 2012...

Hi Linda,
I know what you are feeling. My diagnosis was May5 my surgery was August 9....for a while it seemed 5 weeks 6 weeks....it was out there then it was 10 days, a week, a day.
I just had my six month anniversary of surgery....with support of your family and loved ones.....YOU WILL LOOK BACK SIX MONTHS FROM NOW AND JUST SEE THINGS AS A POSITIVE LIFE CHANGER.........
GOD BLESS
JOHN MADONNA
LAS VEGAS NV

Linda Dixon Thank you John for your encouragement. Just one of those days that apparently we all have now and th ... Read more

Linda Dixon Thank you John for your encouragement. Just one of those days that apparently we all have now and then. Just anxious to be on the other side of this. I hope you continue to do well and I'm praying that you will find a better suited job. God is good, He will deliver!

Getting closer...Linda

On February 11, 2012...

Of course you will be OK. I offer my PS promise on that one!!!! We all go through this. We have discussed there is a reason for you to get the date you got. Might not know why, but there is a reason. Likely to give us the time we need to get ready.

We all have the HS moments. We all have the "we are going to have WHAT done....no thanks, I am gone." We all get past this with the help of our friends. You have been there for everyone. We are all here for you. Close your eyes, and feel our hugs and support. You can and will do this. For sure!!!!!!!

Tomorrow you will see, each day is different, some good ones, some bad ones. Take it easy, stay off your foot and do something nice for yourself.

-Mitch Friedman

Linda Dixon You know what???I do feel the hugs! I am so blessed to have "met" you and all the other guys. What w ... Read more

Linda Dixon You know what???I do feel the hugs! I am so blessed to have "met" you and all the other guys. What would I have done without you?? I feel better now! Except my foot hurts, lol.

Getting closer...Linda

On February 10, 2012...

Hi Linda, my name is Donna Smith and I'm Jim Smith's wife--you wrote such a nice note in his journal--he's having mitral valve re-repair in New York on the same day as your surgery. You sound like a lovely person and we are praying for you and wish you all Christ's blessings!

Linda Dixon Hi Donna...nice to "meet" you and Jim. Yes, I'm afraid we have just been initiated into a very exclu ... Read more

Linda Dixon Hi Donna...nice to "meet" you and Jim. Yes, I'm afraid we have just been initiated into a very exclusive club! Not one I wanted to join, but the upside is I've "met" some wonderful supportive people who have become friends through "cyberspace". Jim has an excellent surgeon, I'm sure he will do very well. I too am afraid of getting atrial fib., my cardiologist says about 30% of heart surgery patients develop Afib following surgery, but it is usually temporary. So, I guess we will find out soon enough. I do pretty well most days, no physical symptoms to speak of, but the "butterflies" come around every once in a while. Thank you for your prayers, you have mine as well. Tell Jim that the first thing I asked Dr. Gillinov's nurse, when she called me with the March 13th date was "that isn't on a Friday is it?". It's not! Take care and let's keep in touch. God bless!

Getting closer...Linda Dixon

On February 8, 2012...

Hey Linda, Thank you for all your prayers and encouraging words. surgery day will be here before you know it. You are in great hands. Stay in touch and take care.

Robert Hartner

On February 8, 2012...

Hello Linda,
My name is Stephanie Cole.
I started a blog this evening. I was immediately informed by Nancy that you will be at Cleveland Clinic when I am!
I'm scheduled for mitral valve replacement 3/15. How about you?
I am excited about this website, the journals. This all seems so positive. I look forward to hearing from you.

Linda Dixon Hi Stephanie, I posted in your journal after talking with Nancy before I read my own journal. So hap ... Read more

Linda Dixon Hi Stephanie, I posted in your journal after talking with Nancy before I read my own journal. So happy to "meet" you. Yes I will be in Cleveland, arriving on the 8th, surgery on the 13th. Yay! There will be someone I know there!!! Yes, love the website, have grown so attached to my fellow "valvers". Thanks Nancy for the intro to Stephanie! We definitely have to "talk" Stephanie!

Still waiting...Linda Dixon

On February 7, 2012...

Linda - it's been 3 weeks since my surgery and I can't believe it's gone by that fast. You think your date won't get here, but believe me, it will be here before you know it and then you blink again and you will already be 3 weeks into your recovery and the rest of your life. I know you will do great and you stay in my thoughts and prayers.
Dick Miller

Linda Dixon Thanks Dick. Time does seem to have shifted gears and is speeding up! Thank you for your thoughtful ... Read more

Linda Dixon Thanks Dick. Time does seem to have shifted gears and is speeding up! Thank you for your thoughtfulness and please do keep me in your prayers.

Getting closer....Linda Dixon

On February 7, 2012...

Hi Linda,
You actually sound better. I do believe your feelings are exactly the same as all of ours, but you express them far better. I found that I was calmer as the date got closer. I think that is going to happen to you. On the actual day of surgery I was excited. I think I was excited to get it over with. You are in my thoughts even if I don't post.
Jane

Linda Dixon Hi Jane. I think that I too am getting calmer as the date gets closer. Time seems to be speeding up ... Read more

Linda Dixon Hi Jane. I think that I too am getting calmer as the date gets closer. Time seems to be speeding up. Thanks for thinking of me and hope you are still getting better each day. What about that guy Mitch?!?! Isn't he something else?
Getting closer...Linda

On February 7, 2012...

Hi Linda - its great that you are getting prepared. Time will start flying by. It's hard to believe that I go in less than 2 weeks.

Hang there until then relax as much as you can. I know that's easier said than done

Jimmy J

Linda Dixon Yes Jimmy, doesn't time seem to have started speeding up the last week or two? It still isn't a walk ... Read more

Linda Dixon Yes Jimmy, doesn't time seem to have started speeding up the last week or two? It still isn't a walk in the park, so to say, I have my moments, but just letting our thoughts and feeling out in the open (here) really does help. Yes the 22nd will be here before you know it. I have milk that expires before that, so you know your wait is almost over!! Hang in there friend...WE CAN DO THIS!
Getting closer...Linda

On February 6, 2012...

Getting closer..... I like that. Booking your flight reservations is a big step closer. Pretty soon you will join us on the other side of surgery. We will be welcoming you with open arms and fixed hearts! -Mitch Friedman

On February 6, 2012...

right don't worry be happy Isn't that a song? ha ha yes our little (not so little tho) Jeff is a Chiropractor and I"ll be a great one too. !

good on the flights.. now get busy. It really really really helped me Cannot believe I"m two days away from this. Still sort of surreal

talk soon Nancy

PS I took JANIS" lead and deleted some of my older posts. nice but it took some d..n long to do.

thanks. Nancy

On February 6, 2012...

I must be really tired! I misspelled chiropractor below, TWICE! Too funny!

Linda Dixon Yes Jeff, I know you are a chiropractor! I wish I was in Orlando so you could do that laser thingy yo ... Read more

Linda Dixon Yes Jeff, I know you are a chiropractor! I wish I was in Orlando so you could do that laser thingy you were talking about to help heal from surgery. I'm afraid we don't have that available in my little town. Yep, I decided I was going to start walking, get "ready" for surgery and started walking on my treadmill. Got my SI joint fired up, hurts all the way down to my foot, but feels better after just 1 adjustment. But I don't have to tell you,right?

Getting closer...Linda Dixon

On February 6, 2012...

But seriously I am glad you are getting closer. Just wish it was all behind all of us! I'll keep tabs on you. Thanks for keeping us posted Linda.
Jeff Shebovsky

On February 6, 2012...

Did you say you went to your chiroractor? Hooray!! You know I'm a chiroractor right?
Jeff Shebovsky, Orlando

On February 6, 2012...

Hello getting closer Linda! Glad you booked the flight and hotel, one less task to worry about. Yes, maybe a pet sitter for Willie would be easier on him. Doesn't hurt to check your options out. I know the waiting has been hard on you. You will do great. Don't worry, all will go well. I know this to be true!! Janis Kielbasa

Linda Dixon Hi Janis, hope you are still improving every day. How is the walking going? I can't imagine how cold ... Read more

Linda Dixon Hi Janis, hope you are still improving every day. How is the walking going? I can't imagine how cold it must be, we are having highs in the 50s and lows in the low to mid 30s and I can't stand it! I think that I am going to join the Y here, they have an indoor track to walk on, I just can't do the treadmill. I have something going on with my right foot since my last attempt at the treadmill. Hope it isn't a stress fracture. Only hurts when I walk on it, lol. Anyway, thanks for stopping by and for your encouragement, means a lot!
Getting closer...Linda

On February 4, 2012...

Just stopping by to let you know I'm thinking of you. I have you in my thoughts and prayers. I know the waiting is hard. Hang in there, soon you will be done with surgery and in recovery mode. Keep us updated. Hugs, Janis Kielbasa

Linda Dixon Hi Janis, as always,thank you for stopping by with your encouragement. I'm actually okay today (lol) ... Read more

Linda Dixon Hi Janis, as always,thank you for stopping by with your encouragement. I'm actually okay today (lol) have been more concerned with Mitch than myself, so he gave me something else to think about. Plus I worked a few hours yesterday and today, so that helps take my mind off of things too. Hope you are still doing well. Hugs back at you!

Still waiting...Linda Dixon

On February 2, 2012...

Hi Linda,
Thank you so much for your kind words to me. I think I'm beginning to get the hang of the journals and how they work. I hope you are doing well and staying busy do you do t worry much. I look forward to more journal entries from you. By the way...My bump in the road is getting better. I was pleasantly surprised to see that as my pneumonia is getting better so is my chest pain.

Jennifer

Linda Dixon Thanks Jennifer for stopping by my journal. Glad to hear you are feeling better, keep it up! I'm sti ... Read more

Linda Dixon Thanks Jennifer for stopping by my journal. Glad to hear you are feeling better, keep it up! I'm still waiting, but doing okay (right now, lol).
Take care.

Linda

On February 2, 2012...

Hi Linda,

Thanks for the message. I know it's easy to get anxious when you are waiting for the procedure. Just remember you are in great hands at the Cleveland Clinic.

Thanks,
John

On February 1, 2012...

thanks i'm getting better... about the CATH... with folks like you, MItch, etc.. so we'll see .ike mitch it's the day before on FEB 8
I did find a book that in my opinion is just as good or even better than adams.. but I highly suggest it.
it's called the OPEN HEART companion by Maggie Lichenberg. really really good I had it' overnighted on amazon so I"d have time to read it.before feb 9 really good stuff highly recommend it.I think $15. go for it. thanks for your support. we're in this together wish we could do lunch ! maybe one day... Nancy

On February 1, 2012...

Linda. Hi there. Great post.

Well yes. Jeff stopped by and it was sort of surreal if unwill to meet an on lime friend. Sort of like a blind date if you remember the, Ha ha

As I told Janis. Yeah. He's a hunk. Hope he doesn't read this - well even if hedges it's ok

We posted that pix on my photo page. Hope u got to see it. We did a thumbs up for Mitch.

I'm doing good. New Orleans this weekend for a program and then gotta get ready for the big day.

Have you had a cath already ? While I hear it's a no
Brained Still concerned. But feel better after all those. It's no big deal posts.

See ya. Talk soo. Hugs. Nancy.

Linda Dixon Hey Nancy...yes I have had 3 caths and there really is nothing to them, honest. There is the usual " ... Read more

Linda Dixon Hey Nancy...yes I have had 3 caths and there really is nothing to them, honest. There is the usual "stick" with the iv and also when they numb the groin with xylocaine. But just the initial stick, then you don't feel anything. It is quite amazing to watch, I was wide awake with all of mine, they give you some valium to relax you, but honestly I didn't even really need it for number 3, I knew what was coming. The worse part is having to lay without raising your leg or head for a couple of hours. I wouldn't kid you...really...worry more about what your hair or makeup looks like or something like that. When is your cath? Let me know, you've probably mentioned the date, but I don't remember. I know the BIG day is 2/9.

Talk to you later...still waiting..Linda

On February 1, 2012...

Hi Linda, just stopping by to say I am thinking of you and have you in my thoughts and prayers!! Soon, you will be fixed and on your way to recovery and enjoying that beautiful family of yours. Hugs, Janis Kielbasa 5 weeks post op

On January 30, 2012...

Linda,
Steve Regouby here. It lookslike we have very similar synptoms. In my surgery on Dec 14th, 2011 they had to repair the ascending Aorta as well as replace the Aortic valve. They put a mess material in the ascending aorta. I am glad that the surgeon went ahead and did that for my future.

I bet you are going to do really well. I am so pleased at the new energy I have. I will be monitoring your progress.

Steve

Linda Dixon Hi Steve, yes, we do sound very much alike. I know my valve will be replaced, I'm not sure about the ... Read more

Linda Dixon Hi Steve, yes, we do sound very much alike. I know my valve will be replaced, I'm not sure about the aorta. Won't really know until I meet with Dr Gillinov the day before surgery. His nurse seemed to think he may not do anything with the aorta because it measures only 4.0 cm. BUT...I want it fixed. There is a very strong genetic predisposition for thoracic aortic aneurysms in my family and I can't see "watching" it just to have to go back under the knife again. But we'll see what he says. What type of valve did you get? I will read your journal again, but if you have any tips, i would really appreciate any suggestions.

Still waiting...Linda Dixon

On January 30, 2012...

Hi Linda,
Just checking in with you. How are you? I'm still praying for you. Let me know how you are.

Cindy Kenward

On January 30, 2012...

Beautiful grandchildren!! You are blessed!! I can't wait to join your grandma club. My granddaughter is due March 30th. Glad you are doing well. Hang in there, my friend. Janis Kielbasa

Linda Dixon Oh Janis, you have such a blessing in store! I often tease my daughter and tell her I never loved he ... Read more

Linda Dixon Oh Janis, you have such a blessing in store! I often tease my daughter and tell her I never loved her as much as I do my grandbabies, lol. I was present when each one of the was born and they are all different in their own way. Congratulations, although you do not look old enough to be a grandma!
Still hanging....you get fully recovered so you can enjoy that little girl!

Still waiting...Linda

On January 29, 2012...

Great! I did not see that movie, only the clip, but MAN is it ever inspirational. Love the idea of the "heart surgery playlist" with songs like "I can see clearly". Weather in the O.R., pre-op, or in recovery. These are THE types of things that will get us through. Good night. Busy Monday ahead. Lots of bad backs to take care of :)
Jeff

On January 29, 2012...

That was me, Jeff, in that previous post. Sorry about that.

By the way, check out my last few posts on Mitch's website and let me know what you think.

Linda Dixon Are you kidding me??? "Facing the Giants"???? I own the DVD!!! Talk about tissues!

And "I Can See Cl ... Read more

Linda Dixon Are you kidding me??? "Facing the Giants"???? I own the DVD!!! Talk about tissues!

And "I Can See Clearly Now" ...the pain is gone...all of the obstacles in my way...
I cannot listen without singing along and it absolutely makes me feel better!!
I did get an MP3 player for the CCF guided imagery tapes, one valver told me they let her take hers into surgery, and I am also going to add some songs. I think that is a great idea. I will look up the others and let you know what I think. Did you talk Mitch into doing the same thing???

"Amazing Grace" also works wonders for me!

Linda

On January 29, 2012...

Love Jimmy's kids' "heart friends" classifiction. Really more like "heart family". This internet thing is amazing.....connecting us all from all around the U.S. and the world. Friends made so easily and bonds made so quickly. March will be here before you know it. No date set for me yet, but I will have one after I see the doc on Feb 2.

Linda Dixon Yes, it is amazing, feel like I've known some of these guys forever. Feel like we will be friends fo ... Read more

Linda Dixon Yes, it is amazing, feel like I've known some of these guys forever. Feel like we will be friends forever, we share something not just everyone ever experiences. Whoever this is, let me know, like me, you forgot to sign!
Linda