On December 16, 2012...
You are a hoot! I bet they get such a kick out of you at rehab! I have a question for you. When you started again on watching your weight, how did you start? Did you go straight back to the same calorie level? I don't want to lose my progress to date on getting my weight down but don't want to impede recovery.
Linda Hillman  My appetite wasnt all that good after surgery, but at Thanksgiving it improved. I have been at Weight ... Read more
On December 7, 2012...
the tinsel....now the treadmill....you keep me smiling, my friend!!!! LOL
Stay safe.(LOL)..I look forward to your next post!
Connie T
Linda Hillman  Hey never a dull moment with me. I like adventure lol Besides the treadmill is Elsie's fault. If it w ... Read more
On December 7, 2012...
Linda, too funny!!!
Well wishes!
On December 5, 2012...
Its a tough reminder for me as to what to expect when my turn comes. I was hoping to be back to normal in a month or two. Thanks for the reality check!

Chris K
Linda Hillman  Hi Chris K, The surgery will take a lot out of you, but it starts coming back real soon. Dont just si ... Read more
On December 4, 2012...
Hey Linda,

Great to hear that you and Elsie are doing well! Don't get pushing it too hard though, you'll be curdling Elsie's milk!!. Remember, from the outside you are fully recovered, but your inside is still working on the repairs after being run over by a Mac Truck!

Keep up the Rehab, but take it slooowly and keep on mooovin :-)

Paul R
Linda Hillman  Hi Paul That was funny. I have slowed down to being a senior citizen again darn it. DVB wanted me to ... Read more
On December 3, 2012...
Oh, girl! I did the same thing today! That rehab makes us feel we can do even more! My doc said the push/pull recovery takes 90 days or more before it stops reminding us so strongly that we have had some MAJOR chest work done! Take it easy! Sherry B
Linda Hillman  Hi Sherry, I did slow down no more decorating. My husband doesnt know it yet but he is going to help ... Read more
On December 3, 2012...
Whoa girl!!! Easy with that tinsel!!! lol
It is so easy to overdo when we are at long last feeling more "normal". I was impressed that you felt like being so "holly jolly" on the same day as doing rehab this early in the game. That in itself, was impressive to me! We all tend to push it to the limit sometimes. It is just a lesson we all learn on our road of recovery, but so glad you are well enough to "test the waters". Now you know....but hey....one day you will have so much energy you will be putting up the decorations in downtown Honea Path!!! :) (just don't try it for this Christmas, okay?? ) lol
Keep pushing in rehab.. you rock!
Connie T
Linda Hillman  Hey Coinnie T, I did slow down and am crocheting the two throws Im doing for my Grand daughters. That ... Read more
On December 2, 2012...
Hi Linda, good to hear from you. Sorry you over-stretched yourself decorating!! Be careful about that. It does take a while to get those muscles and nerves back to normal, I still have numbness and tingling at my scar area, and sometimes pain.
I hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas, we truly do have so many things to be thankful for!
Holly
On December 1, 2012...
I knew you'd like it. Ready to sign up for a marathon? :) -- DVB
Linda Hillman  Hey DVB The answer is NO. lol. :). My marathon was and is decorating the house for Christmas. Now I ... Read more
On November 23, 2012...
Linda so glad you are in rehab and that it is going well! The recumbent bike is the one that kills me! We use the treadmill for walking and I enjoy that. Going into February is going to be so helpful for you! Keep us posted how it goes! Sherry Bradford
On November 22, 2012...
Hey Connie, Its to bad we didnt get to meet but I will look forward to meeting you some day. That would even be more great moiving down here. We could tear this place up. I think we would have a lot of fun. SC is a real nice place to live and the cost of living is so cheap. We live in Honea Path which is about 45 min south of Greenville. Greenville is a beautiful city and shopping is good. We can get a little snow. In fact 2 years ago it snowed on Christmas. It was like a present for everyone, they were all so excited. Greenville can get some ice though. It doesnt happen very often though.People in Pa were tired of me saying Im sitting on the front porch taking in the sun while it was snowing there lol. People you probably found out how friendly they are..

I will tell Stephanie your greeting. Right now she has major problems of her husband being laid off and now no home. They are staying with a friend of his. I am so upset about it. Well you have a good trip back home and I will look forward to meeting you someday soon? Happ Thanksgiving. We are going to the neighbors for dinner again. We already had a dinner with Stephanie before she moved. So it has been a challange for me and Weight Watchers, but that is ok as I only have 1 pound to go to goal. Yeah.
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
On November 22, 2012...
Linda...
Yes we were really in Greenville! :) Such a beautiful town. Since we had some vacation time, we wanted to look at a few places we might consider living when we retire. We want to run away from the snow & ice!!!
It would be great to meet, however, we are in NC now. But don't you worry...I have added your name to my "bucket list"...will definately meet one day, for sure. :) We love the south...it is in my blood!...Grandparents were both from Rockwood TN before moving to OH....who knows...one day we may be neighbors...lol
Wow...you are rockin' rehab! Being fit before surgery was sure key, huh? Congrats! Won't be long & you will be a runnin' those 5K's and marathons with Mitch, Tom & Chuck.....perhaps even "beatin" their time :) LOL.... so happy for you, Linda...great to hear how well you are doing! :)
Happy Thanksgiving...give Stephanie my best..
Connie T
Linda Hillman  Hey Connie, I responded to this wrong. Look in my guestbook right above yours. oops :).
LInda H and E ... Read more
On November 21, 2012...
Hi Linda,I hope you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving! I am still in the waiting period and I'm glad you're on the other side.
Linda Hillman  Happ;y Thanksgiving to you and yours also. There is so much to be thankful for. The waiting period is ... Read more
On November 20, 2012...
Hey Girlfriend..
So glad to hear you are doing so well!
Guess where I am right now?.. I am typing this at the Fairfield Inn/Marriott in Greenville SC. My husband drove me down for my "Thanksgiving Wish" to meet Dr Yum Yum....wanted to see in person what the noise is all about...LOL....seriously I AM in Greenville..but the "look & see" on the doc may have to wait for another time we are down! :)
It is so hard to believe just a few months ago you were worried about having your surgery around Christmas. And here you are already a rehab gal! :).. Such a blessing you are well and doing so great...
Wanted to wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving....we all have so much to be thankful for this year...the Holidays have new meaning...and we are well enough to enjoy them!!!!
God Bless,
Connie T
Linda Hillman  Hey Connie, Are you relly in Greenville SC? I dont live that far from Greenville. How long will you g ... Read more
On November 20, 2012...
Linda (and Elsie): Happy Thanksgiving. Thanks for sharing your experiences. I am facing AVR next year and It is reassuring to know what I will be facing--and--that this is not as bad and as painful as we might imagine. Good luck with your rehab.

Chris K
Linda Hillman  Hi Chris, Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours as well. Yes I think I have been pretty lucky. I have t ... Read more
On November 19, 2012...
Rock on! It just keeps getting better. -- DVB
Linda Hillman  Thanks DVB, I just started rehab today and really enjoyed it for now any way. It was actually fun but ... Read more
On November 16, 2012...
Linda I went to WalMart today and got my bras! I got one size bigger just to be sure they don't rub and in case the shrink a little! Hope your day is going great! Hugs! Sherry Bradford
Linda Hillman  Hi Sherry, Good luck with the purchase. Hope they work out for you ok. I was trying to find out today ... Read more
On November 8, 2012...
Linda, you and Connie are my heroes! I can never fully express how much I appreciate both of your posts about your progress and also your sweet encouragement to me! Honestly, you helped keep me from so many pointless fears. I appreciate so much your moxie and great sense of humor! OK, now I am crying so going to stop. Even though we have never met you (and Elsie) will be always in my prayers.

Hugs!
Sherry Bradford AVR 10/23 and getting stronger every day!
On October 28, 2012...
"While I was waiting for them to catch up to me." LOL. Now you be zippy! Keep on pushing. You are going to be surprising yourself some more. -- DVB

Linda Hillman  Hi DVB, Things are starting to get back to normal some and I hve slowed down here, something I said I ... Read more
On October 28, 2012...
Linda! It's good to see you are doing so well! I've been out of touch for a while, so read your posts to catch up with you. You will love cardiac rehab, and will do well at it. It's a great program and helps you get back into the exercise routine in a safe way. Glad to hear you aren't having much pain and are off the pain meds. You will probably continue to have those twinges and stabs at your incision for months to come, at least I have. Soon you will almost forget that you had open heart surgery!!!! Stay strong and enjoy that rehab!!
Holly P
Linda Hillman  Hi Holly, Guess Im getting a little slow. Things are starting to get back to normal. Tomorrow I see t ... Read more
On October 23, 2012...
Hey there Linda...
I had to read your last two posts to "catch up" since I have been in California visiting my son. :)..& trying to "be normal". Well, that didn't go so well as I ended up in the ER in San Diego for 7.5 hrs! Ugh!.. BUT, I am so happy to hear things are going well for you!!! :) Time for rehab already? Time sure flies huh? I was a little nervous too...by the time they finally got all paperwork completed it was 9 wks after surgery for me...and that was tooooo long...but still a benefit none the less!
You will do great in rehab! I think you will really enjoy it.... you are such a "people person" & will make so many more friends there, as well as regaining your strength. You will find yourself looking forward to walking through those doors....maybe not the 2nd day...perhaps not even the 3rd...but it will happen!!! Each week you will notice you will are stronger...and the excercises are easier.....soooo be not afraid my friend... I know you are up to the challenge... :) Remember "I am woman, hear me roar?".... oops....I mean "Moo"...lol
Great to hear you are doing so well....think of you often!
Your Ohio friend,
Connie T
Linda Hillman  Hey Connie T,. Nice to hear from you even though I havent been on here for a little while. Guess thin ... Read more
On October 20, 2012...
Congratulations! I predict you will do great in rehab and will feel better even faster! So thankful you are doing so well! Hugs and continuing prayers for your recovery! Sherry Bradford, AVR 10/23 - the wait is almost over!
Linda Hillman  Hip Hip Hip Horray. you will do great.
Hugs back Linda H and Elsie
On October 19, 2012...
Hey, you're famous!

Nice.

You are gonna love rehab. Nothing to be nervous about. It's all about your recovery.

-- DVB
Linda Hillman  Hi DVB, Well I dont know about being famous lol. But it has been quit a month to never forget. AT Wei ... Read more
On October 18, 2012...
Hi Linda - this is Katie Laut - we met at the "AA" meeting this afternoon :) at Dr Maziarz's office :) would love to keep in touch :)
Linda Hillman  Hi fellow AA member yes we can keep in touch. My email also is lmyrrah@charter.net. That was kind o ... Read more
On October 17, 2012...
Hi Linda, isn't today our 4th week anniversary of the AVR? Hope you have been doing good after surgery. How is your daughter? Don S.
Linda Hillman  Hi Don, Happy Anniversary to you too. Actually tomorrow is the exact 1 month day. I hope you are do ... Read more
On October 13, 2012...
Linda - Congratulations on making into your own bed. It took me awhile too to depart from my recliner...and making the bed comfortable to sleep. It also took me at least 6 weeks before I started sleeping on my side and then it was for very short periods. Now at 9 weeks I can say all of a sudden I don't have pain in my chest at all! My friend told me that would be the case...that all of a sudden it just disappears! Keep up the good work...and you'll do great at cardio rehab!

Oink...Oink...Charlie Messineo
Linda Hillman  Hi Charlie and Julia, Isn't it funny how we take things for granite? and delight in the little stuff ... Read more
On October 12, 2012...
Linda

I also have a three inch scar on my right shoulder...it is my understanding that it was used to send blood to the brain during the surgery...while they were repairing my anyurism. I wonder if yours is the same thing?

Natalie t

Linda Hillman  Hi Natalie, That is a good thought now I wonder. Oh well Thursday I will find out that is when I see ... Read more
Linda Hillman  Hi Natalie, You hit the nail right on. That is pretty much what the small incision is about. He said ... Read more
On October 10, 2012...
Hi there! I meet tomorrow with Dr. Ryan so hopefully will know the surgery date then. Still hoping for the 23rd or 24th. Will post as soon as I know. I am planning to get walking right away and I have a really good treadmill I plan to wear out! Haha! Sherry Bradford, AVS, surgery pending
Linda Hillman  Hi Sherry, Hope you get the date you want and it all goes good for you. Dont overdo with walking. Its ... Read more
On October 10, 2012...
Hey Linda,
Turns out I was using the spirometer wrong. When I saw ur comment I thought u meant the lines on the exhale breathing treatment. Turns out there are lines on the ispired.volume one too. Talked to the nurse today and learned I'm breathing in too fast. Oops lol. Wouldn't have realized it without ur comment. Thanks.

AVR/PFO Closure 9/25/2012
Carolyn S.
Linda Hillman  Thanks Carolyn, that was funny. I was kinds wondering what kind of lungs you have to be doing so well ... Read more
On October 10, 2012...
Linda; wasn't it 3 weeks ago today we had the surgery? In some ways, it seems like yesterday; other times, it seems a long time ago, till I cough or put on a shirt and reality sets in. We should be celebrating this day and how Blessed we've been. Don S.
Linda Hillman  Hi Don and Three cheers to us. We made it. I cant believe where the time has gone to. Why didnt it go ... Read more
On October 10, 2012...
Linda, please keep me posted about Stephanie and how she is holding up. I woke up this morning, thinking about the mechanical and how I would not want to go through this again but then after hearing about Stephanie; maybe the bovine was better for us. We have been very Blessed and continue to improve daily. Glad your doing well and we'll keep improving daily. Very proud of all your accomplishments. Don S
Linda Hillman  Hi Don, Stephanie went to doctor today for an echo. She will have to have a hysterectomy at age 32. S ... Read more
On October 8, 2012...
Have you seen that little incision guard that they talk about in the book? It is just a little plastic thing that basically holds your clothing out away from the incision. Smart idea but don't know what it costs. Surely not much. Might be worth trying. So glad to hear of your progress! I am SO surprised you could get around this well so soon after surgery! Congrats and keep on doing whatever you do as it is obviously working great! Sherry - AVS, surgery pending
Linda Hillman  Hi Sherry, I did see the guard here on HVJ and I think it was a little expensive. Im lucky I have a l ... Read more
On October 8, 2012...
Hi Linda, glad to know your doing well, walking and going to Church. Very proud of you and your progress. Thanks for the information regarding the calcium. The area at the top part of my incision has a bulge; not sure if it will reduce in size, go away or what. Have a follow up appointment with surgeon on the 18th. You are sure right about the area being sensitive, even with a light t-shirt. At least we know we still have feeling in the area. Wish you continued progress and the Lord to continue watching over us. Take care, Don S.
Linda Hillman  Hi Don Glad you are doing pretty good as well. I have a bulge too. I think it is the starting of it a ... Read more
On October 6, 2012...
Oh my little cheerleader...
Reading your journal brings back memories of my first couple weeks...those first steps back to a normal life (outings) sure have a way of kicking your behind !:)...it sounds so normal....going to Lowes and the dollar store...or going out for lunch....then Whew!!....it hits ya...but don't you worry...it gets better! :)... it just takes time & patience (which I have none of...haha)...you have a good base line, Linda, you were doing some great walking...and eating well before surgery....you were in "training" before you climbed that mountain....& a winner long before you went into that OR....so I am not surprised you are doing so well now.....and the emotional business....well...that gets better too....I am down to crying only once a day now! (wink, wink)...seriously, though, still thinking of you & praying for my SC friend......keep doing what you're doing.....you're lookin good!!!! ;)
Love ya,
Connie T
Linda Hillman  Hey Connie T, Getting out more does help. Went to Weight Watchers last night and it was a lot better ... Read more
On October 6, 2012...
Way to go girl! Just keep pushing yourself a little bit at a time and the good times will keep on a-rollin' as your body takes note of the fact that "Linda's baaaack!" -- DVB
Linda Hillman  Thanks DVB Your right it is slow going but I feel a little better each day and try and do something e ... Read more
On October 5, 2012...
You are doing great Linda, keep up the good/hard work. Do what you can, when you can. Rest when you feel you need it. It is amazing how aware of your body you get during this. Don't worry, I am still here watching you!

-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman  Hey Mitch, Peak a boo I see you. lol. Three weeks today wow. how the time has flowen. Wish it would h ... Read more
On October 2, 2012...
Hi Linda,

I'm glad you and Elsie are progressing well. Hope your visit to Weight Watchers was amazing.

I'm also happy you are managing the pain well. It makes a difference in recovery (breathing exercises, walking, riding in the car, sleeping, etc......)

If feels wonderful to be on the other side of the mountain, doesn't it? Although lots of challenges physically and emotionally, it's nice to know you're on the mend.

Regards,

Lee Castro
Linda Hillman  Thanks Lee, Yes life is good and I am so happy to be here. I have been amazed at the lack of pain. I ... Read more
On October 2, 2012...
Hey Linda!

You are only 10 days past surgery, your heart and that little moo were really thumped hard so it will take a little more time before you are up for Marathons. Until then nice ans slowly wins the race. Listen to your body and only go as fast as it allows. Ellsie will thank you as you mooove along

Keep up the great progress

Paul R
Linda Hillman  Hi Paul, Cant believe how fast the time flies when you arent doing anything I let Elsie tell me what ... Read more
On October 1, 2012...
Hey there Linda...
Sooooo glad you are doing so well! WoW...your first big outing. I am sure your friends at WW will be thrilled to see you!! Won't be long & you will be picking up your entry number for your first 5K! :)
You sure did "long haul it" right to a healthier & better life... You make me so proud!!! I am so happy for you!!!! :):):)
All my best,
Connie T
Linda Hillman  Hey Connie T, Yeah everyone at WW was surprised and happy to see me so soon. It was my first test. He ... Read more
On October 1, 2012...
Linda, you are not doing good, you are doing great. I have been thinking about you a lot. I can not wait to see you, but be careful and do not push yourself to much. With lots of love, Connie H
Linda Hillman  Hey Connie H, It was nice seeing all you guys last Tues. I think Nurse Frank enjoyed himself too. Hav ... Read more
On September 30, 2012...
I'm so glad you are doing well. Keep it up! -- DVB
Linda Hillman  Hey DVB, Me too I am just amazed how it all has gone. God has been so good to me and all of us who ha ... Read more
On September 28, 2012...
You are doing great Linda. Emotional swings, crazy temperature swings, little appetite, all sounds normal. Great job. Keep it up and work on little walks. One day at a time with little improvements along the way. Sorry to say stiffness and aches are normal too.

Your fellow mooer,
-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman  Hey Mitch, Elsie says Moo. They say Im still doing great. Yesterday I was telling my husband that wh ... Read more
On September 28, 2012...
Sounds like you're doing really well. And I'm very jealous of the good food you had at the hospital! I gained 20 pounds while I was there, but thankfully it was just water and not the lousy food. Keep on keepin' on!
Selma
Linda Hillman  Hi Selma, I thought about you every time I ate. I was even telling the nurse bringing me dinners abou ... Read more
On September 27, 2012...
You are awesome! So glad you're doing so well. Keep it up! ...Vicki D.
Linda Hillman  Thank Vicki, I don't know what I would have done without you all.
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie A ... Read more
On September 27, 2012...
Whoo Hoo Linda...
You seem to be doing really well! Your church family is so sweet to bring meals to you...I know it is difficult to eat...but remember about the protein & the healing...
Sounds like the docs are keeping a close eye on you...and you have a visiting nurse too? Awesome. I didn't have one for the OHS, but had one for 6 wks for my knee....it is comforting when a "professional" is keeping a close watch.
Keep up the good work.....still praying for you... :):)
Connie T
Linda Hillman  Hi Connie T, Thats what they keep telling me. Although yesterday was not a good day. I finally meant ... Read more
On September 27, 2012...
Linda

I'm so happy that you are done with your surgery and that everything has been good so far. Keep updating your progress and keep up the good work with your recovery!

Jamie McGuire
Linda Hillman  Thanks Jamie, Me too and I have been amazed the way its going. I plan on staying right here. I think ... Read more
On September 27, 2012...
I've been following your journey for months and I'm very proud of you and very happy your surgery turned out so well. My prayers have been answered. My valve was 1.3 last Dec. and they tell me I'll need surgery in 3 years. So I'm getting all the info I can now.
I've been reading journals to find out what to expect. God Bless. Fran
Linda Hillman  Hi Fran Glad to meet you. Dont worry about your surgery it will be a breeze. There will a lot you wo ... Read more
On September 26, 2012...
Wow Linda! Featured patient, home already and making jokes about Elsie! Way to go! I'm so glad that things went well for you and you don't remember much. Now the healing can begin! Keep taking those walks and using the spirometer. Use as many pillows as you need to get comfortable, it takes a while to adjust. Praying for you!!!
Holly P
Linda Hillman  Hi Holly, Yes the featured patient was a surprise. It really did touch me but lately everything is re ... Read more
On September 26, 2012...
SO very happy for you Linda! YAY you did it. Now get to healing and feeling good!!
Take care,
Mollie
Linda Hillman  Hi Mollie, YAY I agree, its over Im telling everyone I have been defuzed and am safe again. I am so g ... Read more
On September 26, 2012...
Slow is OK, as long as you don't stop. Keep MOOving! Later -- DVB
Linda Hillman  Oh Im a moving when Im not mooing. The grass is good lol
Went to mailbox today. Had a little surge of ... Read more
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