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
Linda Hillman My appetite wasnt all that good after surgery, but at Thanksgiving it improved. I have been at Weight Watchers 14 months. Im not counting calories but go on their point system. I actually eat everything but watch how much I do eat. You are allowed 26 points a day with one day being at 49 points. The first thing I learned was the first bite is the best one it wont get any better. I have pretty much reached my goal within a couple of pounds. It has helped in my recovery a lot and the second thing is the walking I have been doing before surgery.Hope this helps you, wish I knew who I am writing to. Have a good day
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hey never a dull moment with me. I like adventure lol Besides the treadmill is Elsie's fault. If it wasnt for all of this I wouldnt be there. lol
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Chris K, The surgery will take a lot out of you, but it starts coming back real soon. Dont just sit around. Start out walking around the house and resting also.Then take it a little further walking. The time will go fast. It will take a lot longer than a month or two to recover although in 2 months you will feel pretty good. After 4 weeks I was able to drive again, but really didnt feel like it that much. My husband was great and take me wherever I wanted. It will actually take about 8 months to get back 100%, but dont let that bother you, you will feel fine and be able to do a lot. When I started decorating the house for Christmas was my time of forgetfullness. Now I slowed down and let my husband move the stuff I didnt use back out. When it comes time to take it down, it might take a while.l wont be in any rush and will have him help me. I feel so blessed for getting all fixed up and feeling so much better than I use to. I will do just fine and be thankful you feel better.
Mooving all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Paul That was funny. I have slowed down to being a senior citizen again darn it. DVB wanted me to start training for a marathon, (not me) lol. I do get some pain now but not bad. I think most of it is the rubbing of clothes against it. The most pain I have had was from the 3 inch incision on the right shoulder. It was a bypass. That has bothered my more than anything. I am enjoying rehab thou.
Hope you are doing good now. Did all of your tingling go away yet? As far as Elsie goes, she likes to disco. She is always beating hard and loud. It is starting to go down some but it has about driven me crazy. Not that I dont like hearing my heart beat but the neighbors dont have to hear it lol. Oh well until later
Mooving all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Sherry, I did slow down no more decorating. My husband doesnt know it yet but he is going to help me get all this stuff put back. I go all out for Christmas and really didnt get it all out. My house was a mess for a few days when I decided I better quit. Now I am trying to get my 2 throws finished for my Grand daughters that I am crocheting.Thats ok but my arm kinda stiffens up on me then I get sleepy and wind up with a little nap in te chair. But I do that anyway.Its hard to hold back when you feel pretty good. I just put up with the small pains I get now and then. I figure that will hold me back lol. Hope you are doing ok and the pain is finally leaving. Until later friend
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hey Coinnie T, I did slow down and am crocheting the two throws Im doing for my Grand daughters. That will make me sit but my arm tends to get stiff. My husband doesnt know it yet but Im going to get him to help me putting all this Christmas stuff back. I tend to go all out for Christmas and didnt get it all out. The small pains I now get are just a reminder not to do things. I still cuddle up with my pillow. It always feels pretty good to have that little extra support. Saturday night we are going with friends to see Christmas lights and have a horse drawn carrage ride. I already asked the nurse if it is ok to get myself up in a carriage. She thought it would be ok maybe with a boost. That should be interesting lol. So that will be the next adventure lol. Hope all is good with you guys.
LInda H and Elsie AVr 9.19.12
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
Linda Hillman Hey DVB The answer is NO. lol. :). My marathon was and is decorating the house for Christmas. Now I am really hurting. I think I forgot that I had surgery and being in rehab, I was doing some things that I shouldn't have been doing. Now my big incision is hurting some, so I just taking it easy for a couple of days and taking the good ole pain pills. Oh and course when rehab starts making you ache what do they do. Up the levels and speed and time. Have a good day.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hey Connie, I responded to this wrong. Look in my guestbook right above yours. oops :).
LInda H and Elsie
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
Linda Hillman Happ;y Thanksgiving to you and yours also. There is so much to be thankful for. The waiting period is the worse part of all this.
Good luck to you . You forgot to sign. lol. We all do.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hey Connie, Are you relly in Greenville SC? I dont live that far from Greenville. How long will you guys be down here? Maybe we could try and meet someplace and really meet. That would be awsome. Hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Chris, Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours as well. Yes I think I have been pretty lucky. I have the full incision and it doesnt really bother me that much. Right now it does get a little touchy but that is just all of the nerves etc glueing themselves back. I usually dont even need a pain med but sometimes I do take one just to take the edge off. My right shoulder bothers me more than anything where I have a 3 inch incision (bypass). But I have a bad rotator cuff and arthritus there. I have been so surprised in all of this. The worse part of all this is the waiting. After surgery the time has just flown by so fast. I guess the saying has changed a little "Time flies when you are doing nothing". Good luck to you. I wll have to look you up and follow you.
Mooing all over
Linda and Elsie AVR 9/19/12. And Elsie says thank you too.
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
Linda Hillman Thanks DVB, I just started rehab today and really enjoyed it for now any way. It was actually fun but I was only on level 1. We can just keep it that way. lol.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Sherry, Good luck with the purchase. Hope they work out for you ok. I was trying to find out today about wearing the regular ones and she said as long as they dont bind or make you feel uncomfortable it would be ok. So Wed I actually start rehab. I was there today and she was saying it would be today tomorrow and Wed. I went oh no thinking of you. So I will start walking on the track and whatever else on Wed then go back on Mon, Wed and Thrus. Yippee. Hope you are doing good and have a very Happy Thanksgiving. Dont lift that heavy turkey. Until later
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi DVB, Things are starting to get back to normal some and I hve slowed down here, something I said I wasnt going to do. Tomorrow the rehab starts with the nurse and a walk around the track then the work starts on Friday. Hey keep doing good yourself.
Mooin all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Holly, Guess Im getting a little slow. Things are starting to get back to normal. Tomorrow I see the nurse and walk the track and on Fri is when I actually start rehab. Hope it will help my right shoulder if anything. I have a bad rotator cuff and arthritus along with the bypass incision. It is always stiff and pulling. I just keep trying to ignore it and go on. Im only taking pain meds at night. I have been able to get on both sides to sleep now, so nice. I still sleep with the pillow and hug it. Hope all is going good with you.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hey Connie T,. Nice to hear from you even though I havent been on here for a little while. Guess things are starting to get back to normal.lol. Hope you didnt get sick while on vacation. The ER doesnt sound like a very fun place to be.
I have been doing more. No more electric carts and doing more as far as shopping goes. I have been staying more inside as it has turned cold. My husband always finds me under my little blanket any more and the house is warm. I just have no more fat to rely on and then going thru the surgery as turned my thermostat lopsided. I say it because I now have 2 units of southern blood in the northern body. lol. Tomorrow I see the nurse for rehab. I have to walk around a track and then I start hurting on Friday. Im excited but also scared a little bit. Im not having hardly any pain except the occasional nerves waking up, but my right shoulder is still a mess. I have arthritus and a bad rotator cuff there and now the incision for bypass. It is always stiff and hard to work with. Hope rehab will help with that area as well. Went grocery shopping and was emptying the cart and had to convince myself to finish emptying it. I won. and felt good getting it done. Oh well guess I better get going. and let everyone know Im still around.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi DVB, Well I dont know about being famous lol. But it has been quit a month to never forget. AT Weight Watchers before I had surgery, my leader told me I was poster girl for the month and then when I get home I had the surprise here on HVJ so yeah it has been a month. Its just all those things that I am starting to do again. It has been a little shaky starting over again. All the things you take for granite all of your life then starting over. I never thought of it like this. But once I do whatever it is Im ok the next time. I did try and drive and really didnt like it with my pillow being in the way. My pillow has grown on me.lol. Once I get into rehab I know I will like it. Its just something new. Well I have to get on here tonight and do a little journal. It was a busy weekend. All for the good.
So until later.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi fellow AA member yes we can keep in touch. My email also is lmyrrah@charter.net. That was kind of a different visit wasn't it. Glad to meet you. Dr Maiarz's office release me. I said oh darn with such a good looking doctor but I did get my photo op with him. Talk to you later. Have a good recovery. Oh here is my autograph.
Linda Hillman and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Don, Happy Anniversary to you too. Actually tomorrow is the exact 1 month day. I hope you are doing good too. I have been trying to walk a little further then I have been. A couple of times I went into a store without my pillow and if anyone got close to me I automatically went into guard mode. If Im doing grocery shopping I just get the nice electric cart and wheel my way around there. I saw the surgeon today and he has released me said I was doing great and I can go back to driving again. Xray showed my lungs arent quite back to full yet but not looking bad. I will just stay on the good ole spirometer. I have gotten it up to 1700 so Im happy with that. I can tell my lungs are trying to do their part by making me take a deep breath every once in a while.
My daughter is doing ok. The doctor said she could take the Tramadol that I am taking so I hope that helps for a while. She is going to try and hold off until after all the holidays are over with, then I should also be ending rehab in Jan as well. My orientation is next Thursday. Well friend keep up the good work. Hope you had a good report today at the doctors too.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Charlie and Julia, Isn't it funny how we take things for granite? and delight in the little stuff now, walking a little further the breathing excercises and getting into bed? It really is like life is starting over again. I was really afraid to get back into bed. I had the pillows wedged and felt the pressure pushing down. My husband suggested going flat with just a regular pillow. I was still scared and for some reason it worked but by early morning thought I would try the wedges again but put them a little differently. I hate sleeping on my back anyway. It seems like everything you do, you do it very nervously. The next time is a little better.I tried sleeping on my right side for just a little while and it was good, but still not right. Last night I tried the left. Not yet. I can go just a little to the left but not the whole way yet.I have been looking forward to reheb and now that it is around the corner Im scared. I guess I just read how everyone is doing all the walking and I am limited. Although today I did get out to the corner and back. I was shaking by the time I got back home. But when I look at it I think it was about 1/2 mile so I guess yeah for me lol. Oh well guess I better get going Elsie says moo to Charlie pig.
Take care guys.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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, That is a good thought now I wonder. Oh well Thursday I will find out that is when I see surgeon. My cardio doctor didnt know what it is about. I know I did have a temporary pacemaker. I know my big incision has hardly bothered me at all and it is the 7 incher. I have more stiffness and feel like there was something there at one time and my whole right shoulder has been stiff. Now I cant wait to see. Will let you know.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
Linda Hillman Hi Natalie, You hit the nail right on. That is pretty much what the small incision is about. He said ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Natalie, You hit the nail right on. That is pretty much what the small incision is about. He said that is the way they are doing it now and it is also used to help you get cooled down faster but not as cold and all that you had said. So it is for multiple purposes. Thanks for the info.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Sherry, Hope you get the date you want and it all goes good for you. Dont overdo with walking. Its all good but listen to your body and dont overdo. I did a couple of times and I didnt know if I was going to make it home or not. But I really do think that is what helped me with all of this. I really havent been walking much yet as I live in the country and it is rough walking until I get out to the main road. Will check on you and keep you in my prayers. You will do fine. Good luck
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Thanks Carolyn, that was funny. I was kinds wondering what kind of lungs you have to be doing so well so soon after surgery. But I'll tell you the hospital gave me my spirtometer before I had surgery and told me to practice before surgery. Well I got home and blew out on it and all it did was made a funny noise. My husband told me to breathe in. Wow what a difference it worked. But glad to help anyway thats what were here for. We both had a good laugh. I just now got up to 1500 with the ball between the 2 arrows. Keep doing the good work. Life is good and we are all so blessed.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
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 that fast before surgery? I havent had that real nasty cough yet just little ones and the dreaded sneeze hasnt happened yet either. Its been close I just grab my nose and say go away. So far its worked. Now the occasional hick cup goes ouch. I saw cardio doctor yesterday and he said Im doing great. Now I have a real mystery going on. I not only have the big incision I also have one on the right side about 3 inches long. I know I had a temp pace maker but it is on the wrong side. I have more feeling from it than the big one, so cant wait to see surgeon on the 18th. Last night was the first night I actually got into bed. My husband tried to fix pillows and that is when I found out I actually was cut. The pressure pushing down not good so we took some pillows away and I was fine. But when I woke up I was so stiff that was fun. At first had a hard time getting to sleep cause I sleep on my side and my mind kept saying go for it. My body kept saying I dont think so. When I tried the body won.
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
Linda Hillman Hi Don, Stephanie went to doctor today for an echo. She will have to have a hysterectomy at age 32. She is my youngest and closest to me. She is busy trying to find a cardio doctor and then they will go from there. She has 3 small very active kids and hopes to wait until after the holidays. That way I will be stronger to be there for her and her kids. I had her ask her doctor about the Tramadol pain medicine I take and he gave her the ok. She can only take Tylenol and it doesnt do a thing for her. She wishes she had a tissue valve cause of the coumadian. Thanks for asking about her. She is on HVJ under Stephanie Spencer.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR9/19/12
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
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 lot of tops that are v necks or scooped. With the incsion being in the middle I just adjust my top to stay away from it. I also take my pillow everywhere I go and that doesnt bother me al all.
I think what really helped me in a lot of ways was loosing the weight and walking a lot before surgery. That pretty much got me ready for it all. Now I havent been walking as much just around the yard as I live in the country and its kinda hard to walk on a gravel road. When I feel a little stronger I will start in again. It doesnt take much to get me tired out right now or even out of breath. But I stay on the spirometer and have gotten to where I am suppose to be. They say that is your very best friend along with the pillow. It is a long road back and I just go day by day. When is your surgery? Believe me you will be fine and do great. I was afraid to get out of bed for the first time as you are scared and I am one who wants to pass out. They just take the footboard off and it raises right up to where you are standing. I was amazed. You will do good and like the rest of us say waiting is the hardest.
Good luck to you and I will keep you in my prayers.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
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 all and whole thing is pretty much swollen all the way down. I had 7 inch incision. I also had a temporary pacemaker so have an incision to the right. That one feels funny. There is nothing there but it feels like it. The big one doesnt bother me at all except being so sensitive to clothes touching it or even the wind. I guess Im lucky I dont wear t shirts and it show some. After all Dr Oz calls it the badge of courage. It took a lot of courage to do this. But I have scared a couple kids wondering what that is. I see my cardio doctor tomorrow and the surgeon on the 18th. My daughter Stephanie is heading for some stuff. You would never have to worry about this but it could be something else. She has a mechanical valve so you know she has to take coumadian. Now she is headed for surgery and she has been told she is scary could get blood clots and might not make it. She is on HVJ. So you are lucky to mooing along with me. So my friend keep doing good we will look normal again and pretty soon hardy see it.m Good luck.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hey Connie T, Getting out more does help. Went to Weight Watchers last night and it was a lot better than last week. Its funny how you get in the electric carts with the big red pillow and most people stay clear of you. If tehy only knew before I was a walking time bomb. People are so funny. You really do learn a lot. After Stephanie told me what she is in for really got to me. She told me you wrote something really nice to her. My BP was a little high the last 2 days, and I think it was probably that plus sinus headache. When the nurse came today I was telling her and I broke down. Thats not me. She did tell me she knew someone who had to go thru surgery like hers and she was fine. That helped a lot. They have been monitoring me BP,HBP. and oxygen and weight. They told her they are worried cause I keep loosing weight. She told them that Im fine just as long as I dont get below 150. So I have 7 pounds to go then I hit goal, the challenge will be to keep it there. My scab is pretty much gone except one little tiny piece and its just hanging there. Still doing pretty good otherwise, except it turned cold down here and that hasnt been fun as I am cold then hot then cold. I put a jacket on then I want to take it off just to put it back on. Thats driving me nuts. Oh well chat later.
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Thanks DVB Your right it is slow going but I feel a little better each day and try and do something else. Doesnt last long but the nurse said just keep piddling around and I will be ok. Just a little emotional after Stephanie told me what she has to go thru . She is now starting to put blogs on here now, 3 years after sugery. So now the prayers are going to have to go out to her. She and I are very close. She was my mooing reporter on HVJ. Talk to ya later.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hey Mitch, Peak a boo I see you. lol. Three weeks today wow. how the time has flowen. Wish it would have gone that fast before surgery. I'm just taking my time but today I got in the mail to set up cardio rehab. Im not walking like all you guys as I live in the country and it is hard to walk around. Then it got cold and I stayed in for a couple of days. I get so cold then Im hot then Im cold. Turned the furnace on the other night and when my husband said he was cold I guess that was a que, not me. But I have already turned it up. The nurse keeps saying Im doing good. I even surprised her with the spirometer. I was getting it up to 1500 but she said to keep the little ball between the arrowsn well today I did that too, Yeah :) Tomorrw I see my cardio doctor. So will let you know more later.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
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 was expecting some pain. I think I had more pain with the hysterectomy. I was out walking before surgery and lost 44 pounds so that helped a lot. I do get tired easly, but I dont push very much. The last few days was a big test. I have hit all the emotions like crying while washing my hands. Glad you are doing good as well.
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Paul, Cant believe how fast the time flies when you arent doing anything I let Elsie tell me what to do. Im not pushing anything as I do tire easily. Hope you are feeling pretty good by now. Keep up the good work.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hey Connie T, Yeah everyone at WW was surprised and happy to see me so soon. It was my first test. Hey you went thru a lot yourself having kneww surgery months before the big one. That is something to be really proud of 2 major surgeys in such a short time. How is rehab going? Keep doing good rah rah.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hey Connie H, It was nice seeing all you guys last Tues. I think Nurse Frank enjoyed himself too. Have fun at the beach. See ya when you get back.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
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 have gone thru this. You have been wonderful putting all the posts you put on here. Keep up the good work.
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie
AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hey Mitch, Elsie says Moo. They say Im still doing great. Yesterday I was telling my husband that when I had my hsyterectomy eleven years ago, I think that was a lot more painful. But that is a whole different set of muscles. Yesterday I finally had a little bust of energy and was able to walk around my yard four times. Today is different cause it rained and now is rather cool. I asked the visiting nurse if it is ok to go to Weight Watchers tomorrow so I got the go ahead. This week will be a little busy but it is spread out. Still feel a little weak but everyday is a little better.So friend until later.
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Selma, I thought about you every time I ate. I was even telling the nurse bringing me dinners about your fine time you had. Kinda made my day. Yes the food was really good just couldnt eat to much of it as I felt full all the time. I also gained 20 pounds wasnt happy with that it is coming off thank heaven,
How have you been doing anyway. Would love to keep in touch with everyone here. After surgery people kinda dissappear and I wonder what happened to them. My email is lmyrrah@charter.net if you would like to email me sometime. I havent even checked that lately bet it has really added up. Well until later friend.
Mooing all the way
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Thank Vicki, I don't know what I would have done without you all.
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/18/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Connie T, Thats what they keep telling me. Although yesterday was not a good day. I finally meant the mac truck. It has hit my right side and that is the side of my bad arm with rotator cuff. I keep working it but it has just got so stiff and part of my chest too. I think another good thing that is really helping me is a surgical bra. It does go right over my incision but doesnt bother me. The hospital got it for me so dont know how many thousand dollars I spent on that, but I feel it has really helping. I also have in incision on my right side about 3 inches and my strap goes over it as well. Thank heaven it doesnt bother me either. But yesterday is when all the water works turned on. Frank was wondering what happened to me, just started crying for nothing. But I am just amazed at the lack of pain. I might make it 10 hours before I hit a pill. Well talk later friend
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsei AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Thanks Jamie, Me too and I have been amazed the way its going. I plan on staying right here. I think it is my new calling. You take care.
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Fran Glad to meet you. Dont worry about your surgery it will be a breeze. There will a lot you wont remember and when they tell you kinda what you didnt remember you will want to hide in a hole. I couldnt believe a few things I said, but it was good for a good laugh. Just wonder I much more there is I dont know about. They probably already have told you that your valve has to be no larger than 1cm. My doctor said there is no way of predicting these things. Mine was 1.1 in Feb and last June it got to .946. The pics showed my anuersym was 4.5cm but when he got in there it was much larger than all the tests showed. I feel so much better and not worrying about the future. The nurse today said I am doing real good, although it is slow coming back I will have to find you here on HVJ and follow you. Good luck to you. Just remember you can do it.
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Holly, Yes the featured patient was a surprise. It really did touch me but lately everything is really touching me. I feel so blessed Everybody says Im doing good. It is a long walk back, but Im up for it, I'm just going slow for now. Maybe on Monday I will have a walk to the mail box a couple of time. Right now I havent been off the porch. I will be happy to get out for a little bit. After what one nurse told me what I said I wanted to go hide in a hole. Makes me wonder how much more that I didnt hear about. Probably just as good not to know lol. Take care.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Hi Mollie, YAY I agree, its over Im telling everyone I have been defuzed and am safe again. I am so glad its over and feel like I have been blessed in so many ways. Everybody says Im doing great and I dont even look like I had surgery. So I just push down the shirt a little and show just a little of the 7 inches.Even with that I have not really any pain but I just meant the mac truck and my right side is stiffing up on me. I just try and over look it. That is my bad arm anyway. Hope you are doing good as well.
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
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
Linda Hillman Oh Im a moving when Im not mooing. The grass is good lol
Went to mailbox today. Had a little surge of energy come to me today, so thought I would try it out before it rains.
Mooing all over
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
LInda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12