Hey Linda! It will take some getting used to seeing "getting there" now by your name, you have been such a strong support person for everyone on here! Now sit back and let us support you! Deal with the butterflies, you know what to do... you have done your research and followed all of us and you have your faith to help get you through! Glad you are starting your climb!!
Holly P
Linda Hillman Thanks Holly, Yes Im trying to get use to for the long haul too. I thought I was going to have to cha ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Holly, Yes Im trying to get use to for the long haul too. I thought I was going to have to change it to for the longer haul. The doctor said I havent actually fallen completely off the fence as my aortic valve is .946. I am just about to hit the ground. Probably a good thing as this fence is kinda high with all the waiting I am doing and I dont like heighths. Dont need to brake a bone falling off lol. But I think my climb is going to rather a fast one. I will probably be really out of breath by the time I get to the top as it doesnt take much to do that anymore. Hope you have a good day and thanks again. Reading all of these posts really touchs me.
Getting there
LInda H
On July 17, 2012...
Linda - I'm trying to imagine how scary it all is and of course can't really... yet...
Thinking of you - hang in there!
...Vicki D.
Linda Hillman Hi Vicki, Nice to hear from you. When I was at the doctors the other day I had a feeling this would h ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Vicki, Nice to hear from you. When I was at the doctors the other day I had a feeling this would happen. I just felt it. The thing that really got me was as soon as possible, and I didnt know what to think, but he was talking about the heart cath. That kinda thru me for a loop. Then I had to get pre registered for this and all the emotions strated kicking in. When I get nervous I have a habit of laughing, its just nerves, then I was fighting tears, then I felt numb like what just happened to me. I was so glad my neighbor was with me and she was driving cause I dont think I could have. Then my stomach started growling really loud. I think it was mad at me. Havent done that in a long time. Since then I have been pretty emotional. But the more I talk to people it helps in relieving some of the stress.
Have you seen your cardio doctor yet. Maybe he should be doing an echo on you. That will show a lot. You take care.
Getting there
LInda H
On July 17, 2012...
Linda, it's your time now! Trust me, we all know that feeling of "holy s*#t" when we are told it is time. No matter how much prep or how long we have been waiting, it is still an overwhelming feeling. I have some good news for you, now you are official. I also have some bad news for you, now you are official. But unlike most, you have done your research, you know we are all here to help you and you know you can and will do this.
Well my friend, roller coaster days and sleepless nights ahead, but soon you will be an old pro telling everyone that the waiting really is the hardest part. Hang in there and lean on us. We are here to help and those of us that have been fixed are better than ever. Soon you will be too.
-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman Hi Mitch,You are so right. I thought all of the stuff I was feeling last winter, well this was 10 tim ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Mitch,You are so right. I thought all of the stuff I was feeling last winter, well this was 10 times worse. But I felt it was going to happen or else at Christmas time. He said I was going to be fine then and he would not ruin that. Whew! To let me down easy. I asked him if I fell off the fence. He said almost. My valve actually measures at .946.So I am almost on the ground but it is time to move on. What hit me was as soon as possible, and he could do it on Friday.What he meant was the heart cath. I knew that was coming too. So right after that we talk surgeons. So it looks like climb up this mountain will be rather fast. Thats good, my prayer was answered. So yes the emotions are pretty intense. Just reading all of these wonderful posts makes me teary eyed. Thanks for being there. Hugs
Getting there
Linda H
On July 17, 2012...
Hi Linda, you're already a rock star in my book and you will glide through all of this. I'll report back from the other side later this week. And then I can tell you exactly how easy it is!
Summer
Linda Hillman Hi Summer, Thank you. Actually I am a big chicken. Tell them I am allergic to needles then I think wa ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Summer, Thank you. Actually I am a big chicken. Tell them I am allergic to needles then I think wait a minute look at what you are facing.Guess I better get use to it.lol. The nerves are the biggest issue right now. Just sitting and typing I keep getting butterflies. They will probably turn into moths later. But I can do it and so can you. Just let me know what the other side looks like. Good luck
Getting there
Linda H
On July 16, 2012...
Hi Linda. You've been smart and keeping on top of it. Now it's time, and you're getting fixed. I think it's a bum deal each of us has to go through this. But hey, it's one thing or another, eh? You've been stacking the already great odds even more in your favor. Keep doing that - ask your cardiologist & surgeon what more can we do to stack the odds / reduce the risk. A couple of months from now your cheerleaders will be telling you "Girl, you nailed it!". You are so going to nail it. -- DVB
Linda Hillman Thanks DVB, You brought tears to me. But right now that is pretty easy. I think when I started all th ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks DVB, You brought tears to me. But right now that is pretty easy. I think when I started all this not knowing it was being at my daughters surgery for her valve replacement and seeing it all. That might have been a little message getting me ready for later. My Dad started all this with his heart problems so I kinda knew when I was in High School that this could happen one day. But I think right now he is my Gaurdian Angel. I feel him around me and saying hes sorry. But I feel good feeling that. Just wish he was really here. I will just be glad when its over. I prayed for this and I got it. Now God will take care of me and all the rest of us. Until later
Getting there
Linda H
On July 16, 2012...
Oh my little cheerleader......now you get to really join the club.....but just as you have cheered us all on, we will be here for you! No worries.... you have already taken steps to a healthier you but losing 40lbs! and now with a new valve.....LOOK OUT! This is gonna be (almost) a cake walk........keep the faith!... you got this! Be talkin to you after the "climb".... Sending many blessings your way....
Connie T
Linda Hillman Yay Connie. Happy to read you made it. I knew you would. I still have to figure out a new cheer for y ... Read more
Linda Hillman Yay Connie. Happy to read you made it. I knew you would. I still have to figure out a new cheer for you. My brains have gone to mush right now, but I will get it. Cant wait to see what happens to Weight Watchers. This week with all the tests just kinda got pushed aside. I lost the last 2.8 lbs cause of the stress of the last test. So now I will probably dissappear. I know my stomach is really mad at me right now. It sounds like a cat fight going on. I havent done that for a long time.
Well heres to a speedy recovery for you. I wish you the best. Rah Rah.
Getting there
LInda H
On July 16, 2012...
Hi Linda!
The cath is a piece of cake. I had mine at St. Francis and they're terrific. My only complaint was it was FREEZING in there! But once I was prepped they covered me with warm blankets.
About exercise - ask Dr. Bittrick. I was on strict orders NOT to exercise from the time I started to have symptoms until after my surgery. Everyone is different so you should consult your doctor.
Good luck with the cath - hopefully it will show your arteries are clear and your aorta is in good shape so all you'll need is a new valve.
Ricki
Linda Hillman Hi Ricki, Thats what everyone says about all of these tests. Just cant tell my brain that lol. I will ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Ricki, Thats what everyone says about all of these tests. Just cant tell my brain that lol. I will ask Dr Bittrick about the excerise. I went for my walk today before it got to hot, But I slowed it down a lot and going to keep it that way. I already have cut back from the 2 miles down to 1 mile and sometimes I take a day off.
I did tell Dr Bittrick that I wanted to moo not to oink. He wondered why. I told him cows are cuter and pigs are ugly. Besided where I live you cant have a pig lol. But I also told him that the cows across the street might stampede me lol.
I'm looking forward to meeting you and LInda D. So until later
Getting there
LInda H
On July 16, 2012...
The best advice I can give is for you to walk and walk and walk till it almost hurts. The better physical shape you are in pre-surgery the better for recovery. Good physical condition also drastically reduces chances of complications. Stay strong physically and emotionally to beat the stress Linda! You can do it!
Tom Smeal
Linda Hillman Hi Tom, Thanks for the advice. I have been walking. Last Oct my first doctor told me to walk 2 miles ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Tom, Thanks for the advice. I have been walking. Last Oct my first doctor told me to walk 2 miles a day and eat fresh, fresh, fresh. So I joined Weight Watchers and ate right and walked and have lost 40 lbs. but I also have lost 60lbs since we moved to SC in 2009. Now I have slowed my walking to 1 mile a day and since today have slowed that down some. So I am ready for all of this. I have about 10 lbs to loose to get to my actual goal. Then the big challenge is to keep it there. Hope you are having a good day and stay healthy. I cant wait.
Getting there
Linda H
On July 16, 2012...
Ok, so don't panic! You've already done half the climb just waiting to wait, lol! Seriously, I know your heart (pun intended) dropped to your tummy when he said it's time, but you can do this!!!!Don't know what happened to the phones, but we will talk again soon. Gonna get off the computer now, we have ANOTHER storm brewing!
Hang in there...the long haul is just about over!
Linda THE Tiger!
Linda Hillman Hey Linda, I am doing ok for this moment but they seem to change on the minute now. I know all the fe ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey Linda, I am doing ok for this moment but they seem to change on the minute now. I know all the feelings I was talking about a long time ago are a lot different now. Yesterday I felt like a ton of bricks hit me althogh I knew he would be saying this but I just wasnt expecting as soon as possible. The second thought was Dec, you know see ya in 5 months that I seem to have been getting. He said I was going to be fine for Christmas. So I guess I now have a timeline sort of. Stephanie said it will probably ruin my birthday in Sept. But maybe I will have 2 birthdays in Sept. lol.
Will try and call you tonight after I get home from Weight Watchers as long as we dont have the fireworks like last night and no rain. Keep doing good.
Getting there
Linda H
On July 15, 2012...
Hi Linda hang in there the results are really worth it. I'm sitting in CCU and the mountain is great from this side. The difference is like day and night. Don't be put off by your watching others go through it. It's your journey and you have control. My father ahd repeat surgery 10years appart.
Regards
Paul
Linda Hillman Hi Paul, Glad all is going good for you. I am now starting my climb up this mountain instead of stand ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Paul, Glad all is going good for you. I am now starting my climb up this mountain instead of standing there and looking at it. I just want to get this all over with and get onto a new life.
My Dad didnt pass with his surgery. He had conjestive heart failure, but it was because his heart was just worn out from having Wolfe White Parkinson Syndrome for 12 years. But I now feel him around me in spirit. Hope you have a very speedy recovery.
Getting there
Linda H
On July 15, 2012...
OOPS!..loved it so much I signed twice...:) sorry
On July 15, 2012...
Hey there my little cheerleader!
That was just awesome!!!!! That's the best darn cheer I have ever, ever heard!!!! You're the best!!!! Thanks sooooo much...could hear that all the way in Cleveland....(just arrived)..... You just made my day!!!!
Connie T
On July 5, 2012...
Hope you're not radioactive anymore! Glad to hear everything is moving along ok. Hang in there!
Summer
Linda Hillman Hi Summer, Dont think I am radioactive any more but I am not going to take a giger counter to me lol. ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Summer, Dont think I am radioactive any more but I am not going to take a giger counter to me lol. I just wanted out of my body and when I took the deep breath she ended it. Wonder whats next. Im sure it wont be anything good.Take care and have a good day.
For the long haul
Linda H
On July 5, 2012...
Hey Girlfriend....
sounds good regarding the echo....My CT was a little different, but "I hear your noise" on how it made you feel...glad that is behind you.....
Be sure to post your results on the 16th...Since I will be in surgery on the 17th....).yep....thats right the 17th...haha....I know, I know.....you just wanted the squad here in Anna, OH make a "practice run" on haulin' my behind outta here...hahahaha.... well my little southern belle....it didn't work....hehehehehehe ...calm & steady....calm & steady..... (until the 17th that is) :)
Connie T
Linda Hillman HiConnie, Glad you are calm and steady. Sorry for pushing into surgery to soon but I was thinking of ... Read more
Linda Hillman HiConnie, Glad you are calm and steady. Sorry for pushing into surgery to soon but I was thinking of you.I mentioned Adam Pick and the website and how wonderful it is. I learned a lot today. I discovered that I am not bicupsed as I could it see and made a comment.She expained what a bicupsed aorta looked like How when you have the 3 leaflets it looks like a V and bicupsed looks like a football.Interesting. She told she might have to hire me. So if I dont have a phone call by tomorrow I will be ok, but we wont be home. Going to see my daughter and kids in Ga. Really dont want to another stress test like that. Couldnt get my arms over my head as I have authritus and bad rotater cuff. She fixed it with pillows. Then I couldnt get them back down afterwards. Thought I was going to do tread mill, but she decided to do it with me lying down. Just wanted to glow to leave. She asked my how I felt, and I told her dont let me up cause I will flat on my face. Horrible feeling. Wonder what the next torture will be. Cant wait lol. Well you take care Will let you know what doc has to say.
For the long haul
Linda H
On July 4, 2012...
There is a way to resize your pics...I can't easily recall, but I can tell you Nancy B (Nancy Beavers) is an expert :) and could prob easily walk u thru it.
Karen
On July 3, 2012...
All great news Linda. Should make the "long haul" a little easier. Keep up the good work and don't shrink away to nothing.
All the best,
-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman Hi Mitch, Maybe someday I will be changing that long haul. lol.Sure would be nice. I feel good about ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Mitch, Maybe someday I will be changing that long haul. lol.Sure would be nice. I feel good about it now I am ready for what is coming. I have called this little move of loosing weight my recovery. Guess maybe I should say pre recovery. But now I am ready. I 'll not and dissappear. Went to my meeting and lost another 2.8 and dont know what I did except not eating to hot and certainly not driving until today cause my car has no air right now. Everybody thought I have been sitting by a pool. Told them no air in 98 degree heat. Winter can come any time. Will post on Thurs with a glowing message on it.
For the long haul
Linda H
Enjoy the trip to see your daughter. Consider getting yourself a new swimsuit, it's hot, cool off. Treat yourself!
Post updated pics too.
Karen Campo
Linda Hillman Hi Karen, I am looking forward to see Stephanie and kids. They are all excited. We will be going to ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Karen, I am looking forward to see Stephanie and kids. They are all excited. We will be going to the pool but I will have my old swim suit that just kinda hangs there lol. I was looking for one today and didn't see any that I liked or else to much money. I will only be in the kiddie pool with grandkids. I will try and get some pics out of camera and put on here if I can figure out the size. I havent been able to figure out the size on this site.
Have a good July 4th.
On July 2, 2012...
Hi Linda. Nice work on the 38 lbs, You must be happy/proud. That's quite and achievement.
Metropolol. Both Paul McLeod and I went off metropolol early compared to the full course. I guess everyone is different. It gave me a little dizziness, I think. Slowed me down too. My resting BP now is usually near 110/70.
-- DVB
Linda Hillman Hi DVB. Thank you. I am pretty happy and proud. Went to my weight watchers meeting tonight to find ou ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi DVB. Thank you. I am pretty happy and proud. Went to my weight watchers meeting tonight to find out I lost another 2.8 lbs. That surprised me as I didnt walk to do much this week. To hot. Im not going out and walking in all the nasty heat and falling flat on my face from the heat. So yeah it was a big surprise..
The bp med I was taking was Amlodipine Besylate 5 mg. I googled it and it can make you dizzy. But with my problem it seemed to be more intense. So probably about 95% of it left. I also take Lisinopril-HCTZ 20-12.5 mg. That doesnt seem to bother me except having to get up at night. I will keep taking it for my heart problem. Maybe someday I will be off it as well. I really dont like pills lol. Well have a good July 4th..Will be posting a glowing note on here Thursday. Stay cool
For the long haul
Linda H
On July 2, 2012...
Hey other Linda...
I told you that you were one HOT cheerleader!.....38 lbs!!....Now get that pic posted so we can see this smokin hot bod you are sportin :) Perhaps one in that new bathing suit you are lookin to buy! Seriously though, fantastic job on takin charge of your life....dropping a med?... Whoo Hoo! Big accomplishment...Huge!
Congrats!!!!
Will be watching for your post on Thursday...anxious to hear how it goes!
Sayin a prayer for you!
Connie T
Linda Hillman Hi Connie, You are so funny. I really dont know about a hot bod at 65 years old? lol. I have arms tha ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Connie, You are so funny. I really dont know about a hot bod at 65 years old? lol. I have arms that Selma says are floatation devices. I call them wings. I think when I have surgery I will tell them to feel free to do a little repair of the arms. That will probably be another 10lbs. Amazing I went to my meeting tonight and found out I lost another 2.8 lbs. Dont know what I did except know appitite. Probably a little uptight with Thurs coming not to mention all the heat. Didnt walk any to hot. Everybody thought I had been sitting by the pool, I wish. Its from a car with no AC. but we are going to try and get that fixed, as I kinda looked a little cooked with 98 degree temps. Havent gotten that new suit as I havent seen one I like thats cheap. I dont believe spending a lot on something with not to much material in it. Hope you have a wonderful July 4th. Take care will post a glowing message on Thurs, but wont get results until the 16th. unless they tell me to pass boardwalk and go straight to hospital. Hope not.
For the long haul
Linda H
On July 2, 2012...
Hi, Linda --
You lost 38 pounds at Weight Watchers??? That's fabulous! I lost 29 pounds after surgery, but unfortunately, they were the 29 pounds of fluid I gained during surgery! :-)
I am committed to getting back to my weight loss program, and hope that all this walking serves the dual purpose of getting me fit AND thin.
Stay cool!
Selma
Linda Hillman Hi Selma, That was a lot of fluid for surgery. But the good thing is you lost it all. I really dont w ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Selma, That was a lot of fluid for surgery. But the good thing is you lost it all. I really dont want to loose much more, so I am just about there. Went to my meeting tonight and found I lost 2.8 pounds more. Dont know what I did. I havent walked, to hot.So I havent eaten that much know appitite cause of the heat so I was really surprised myself. Last week had ice cream social at church and gained .4 lb. The doctor wanted me to loose weight as it would help with recovery. So I have called this recovery before recovery. How many people do that?. I think loosing the weight helped bp to go down. Im afraid to stop with everything for my heart. It was a test and it worked so far. Anway hope you have a wonderful July 4th. I think they have fireworks on tv from NY so I will be watching them. Want to go together? lol. Its to hot to go see them and it is so dry it kinda scared me. Have a good one
For the long haul
Linda H
On June 25, 2012...
Linda I could not agree with you more. As much as we all sometimes need medications to control BP, Blood sugar etc. sometimes inadvertently over medication does happen and is a fact of life. Many medication combinations work synergistically? Good luck to you. I will look for yor reports.
Raman S
On June 18, 2012...
Wow! that's great! Good for you. Nothing like being able to stop one of your medications! I am finally off all meds and it feels great! Hang in there, you are in my prayers!
Holly P
Linda Hillman Thanks Holly, At Weight Watchers I have heard other people being able to get off meds including diabe ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Holly, At Weight Watchers I have heard other people being able to get off meds including diabetics. So I thought I would try it and see what happens. Right now it is holding its own better than ever. I still have pills just in case. I dont think docs like you to quite taking them cause it isnt helping all the drug companies.
I will keep you and everyone else in my prayers as well. Have a good day.:)
For the long haul
Linda H
On June 13, 2012...
I did notice Joan no longer has an HVJ. I am planning to see her later this week. Will keep you posted.
- Mitch Friedman
On June 12, 2012...
Hi Linda, so glad you found a doc you like. Hopefully, you will get some clearer answers. Good luck with all the tests. With information, comes power. Take care.
-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman Thanks Mitch, I feel good about this doctor. I wasnt as nervous as I was with the other one. Maybe it ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Mitch, I feel good about this doctor. I wasnt as nervous as I was with the other one. Maybe its cause I have been living with this for a while, and can digest it. Not looking forward to a five hour test but oh well I will survive, hope my husband does as he is diabetic and it will be all day pretty much. At least he can find a snack bar but I will be starving. I will survive this. Hope you have a good day.
For the long haul
Linda H
Linda Hillman Hey Mitch Last night Linda D and I were talking on the phone and the question of Joan Davenport came ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey Mitch Last night Linda D and I were talking on the phone and the question of Joan Davenport came up. Just wondering how she is doing cause I think she was having surgery now and she just dissappeared. Have you heard anything from her? I think you said you were going to try and see her.
Linda H
On June 12, 2012...
Linda, I'm glad this doctor is being more "open" with you. With the 1.1cm you could go years. It took several years for me to "be ready". Just make sure to keep up with the dilation, I'm kind of paranoid about that. I don't know about Joan, I can't find her either.
Linda Dixon
On June 12, 2012...
Linda, I'm glad you were impressed with the new cardiologist. Don't worry about the nuclear stress test. You just walk on the treadmill, hooked up to the EKG and they inject you with contrast and then take "pictures" sort of like a CT or MRI. If you can do the treadmill, there's nothing to it. Did he address the aneurysm at all?
Linda THE Tiger
Linda Hillman Hey He mentioned about the dialation and that kinda goes along with it. The info that he received was ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey He mentioned about the dialation and that kinda goes along with it. The info that he received wasn't all that clear to him as I don't think he got everything from the way it sounded. I did have all my paperwork with me and he did look at it. I think he is going to be more clear when I have these things done. Then he will compare everything. He did say the aortic valve was at 1.1cm. So I am just sitting on the fence trying to decide on weather to fall off the other side. He said after it reaches a 1 or less then we will talk and get serious. I did like him he explained things a lot better to me said he could hear the murmur loud and clear and missed irregular beats. He did say that there is not set time you just never know how long it takes, it could take maybe 2 year, but we will just wait and see what happens with this test. He said at least we would have a few to go by and that would help. He did mention a heart cath, but after it gets to that point. Oh yeah. First time I never got to sit down before I was called. He let it up to me of who I wanted to see. I told him I liked Dr Albrecht but I just dont know how to read him. I would keep him and he is a little closer. Besides good shopping afterwards lol. Hope to see you soon
For the long haul
Linda H
PS Whatever happened to Joan Davaenport? I was looking for her to see how she was doing and she just dissappeared from her. Have you heard anything?
On June 5, 2012...
One day at a time Linda. Stay strong until your "big day" comes. Be well.
-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman Hey Mitch, Good to hear from you. Glad all is going good for you. Im still hanging in here, but on th ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey Mitch, Good to hear from you. Glad all is going good for you. Im still hanging in here, but on the 12th I am going to get my 2nd opinion and feel pretty good about it. Lately have been getting a little nausea going. Sunday I thought it was morning sickness. Havent had that for 32 years and it is very impossible. So I guess I can just add that to the list of things to talk about. Sure will be glad when I can start feeling normal again if I remember what it was like. Not that I want the big fillet but if that is what it takes, oh well.
At least I can say I have just about reached one goal of loosing weight. My reg doc said to watch it not to much. So I am almost there and feel real good about that.Someday when I can figure out with downloading pics on here for the right size I will post some.
Continue to do the good work. And if yor aren't going as fast as you like, just remember you are least going at some speed and probably a lot better then before. Well until later.
For the long haul
Linda H
On May 28, 2012...
Linda,
Just please let me know when your date has been set, and I will put it on my calendar. Have been in contact from time to time with Jimmy J. as well.
My surgeon is Dr. Barry Chan, in same group as Dr. Andrews.
Vel Turner
Linda Hillman Hi Vel, When that day ever comes I will post it on here for all to know. My first cardio doc said it ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Vel, When that day ever comes I will post it on here for all to know. My first cardio doc said it could be 5 months to 5 years. I have had some of these symtoms for years like the chest pain. And no one ever addressed it. Then 5 years ago I was told I had a murmur. That sat there also. When we moved here to SC my reg doc pursued it with all of my family history. And on my 65th birthday last year is when I was told. My life hasn't been the same since. Just want to be better and enjoy life. You take care and have a good day.
For the long haul
Linda H
On May 27, 2012...
Linda,
Have you chosen the hospital for your surgery, or is it too soon to ask that question? I was wondering because you aren't THAT far from Charlotte.
Vel Turner
Linda Hillman Hi Vel When that time comes I have been thinking of Charlotte Presbytarian with Dr Andrews. That is t ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Vel When that time comes I have been thinking of Charlotte Presbytarian with Dr Andrews. That is the top of my list now. Jimmy Johnson and I think it was Jamie went there and raved about it. It is a couple hours away from us.. Have a good Memorial Day
For the long haul
Linda H
Linda Hillman The other person in Charlotte was Jan not Jamie. Oops. They both raved about Charlotte.
Linda H
On May 17, 2012...
Hi, Linda -- you can do this!! I know it seems daunting but you're doing all the right things.
Selma
Linda Hillman Hi Selma, How are you doing? Going home soon to have a good meal? I have been getting a kick out of y ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Selma, How are you doing? Going home soon to have a good meal? I have been getting a kick out of your journals. Hope all is going good. Just remember when you do get sprung out of that room with the tree view to take it easy. Good luck.
I feel pretty good about meeting the new doctor. Maybe I will get some answers now.
For the long haul
Linda H
On May 17, 2012...
Hi Linda!
I'm so glad you have an appointment with Dr. Bittrick. I hope you like him!!
Good luck with that last 10 pounds ... I'm still working on my weight and have much more than 10 to go!
I'll be anxious to hear how your appointment goes.
Ricki
Linda Hillman Hi Ricki, I feel good about this. Hope to get some more assuring answers now. I guess I have lived wi ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Ricki, I feel good about this. Hope to get some more assuring answers now. I guess I have lived with this for a while and had time to digest it. I told my doctor today that I have always been healthy all my life now I feel like a hypocondreac (sp).
With my weight I joined weight watchers and have lost 32 pounds since Oct. I dont want to vanish into mid air lol.
I look forward to meeting you and LInda D this summer when she comes to Clemson. We went to Pendleton for the Spring Festival and drove into Clemson to check it out. That is a pretty town. You have a good day and I will let you know how things went.
For the long haul
Linda H
On April 27, 2012...
That is sad news Linda, prayers to you and your family and to your friends family.....
Cindy Pastrano
Linda Hillman Thanks Cindy, I will be sure to pass your prayers onto Kevin. Ray will flown back to Erie Pa on Monda ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Cindy, I will be sure to pass your prayers onto Kevin. Ray will flown back to Erie Pa on Monday. He was only 57 years old. At least he is with his first wife again.
Linda H
On April 18, 2012...
Holding you and yours in my thoughts today.
Best,
Selma K
Linda Hillman Thanks Selma, Ray is a good friend of the family. His son was my daughters first boy friend and his p ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Selma, Ray is a good friend of the family. His son was my daughters first boy friend and his parents became really good friends. It was a shock getting the email. I will be sure to pass your thoughts onto Kevin his son. Thanks so much. Hope all is doing good for you.
For the long haul
Linda H
On April 17, 2012...
Send as many prayers as I can!! Hang in there Linda!!
Jimmy Johnson
Linda Hillman Thanks Jimmy, It was a shock to get his sons email. His family and us became good friends when my dau ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Jimmy, It was a shock to get his sons email. His family and us became good friends when my daughter was dating Kevin a long time ago. I will be sure to pass your prayers onto Kevin. Hope all is good with you. And I am still hanging in there until July. If I dont like what doctor has to say I am going to get second opinion and go from there. Just want it over with.
For the long haul
Linda H
On April 17, 2012...
Prayers coming your way Linda, hope all turns out okay!!!
Take care....Cindy Pastrano
Linda Hillman Thanks Cindy, Came as a shock to me from his sons email. His son Kevin was my daughters first boy fri ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Cindy, Came as a shock to me from his sons email. His son Kevin was my daughters first boy friend and his family and us became good friends. I will be sure to pass your prayers onto Kevin. He and his sister had a very hard time when they lost their Mother suddenly, so I worry about them also. Hope you are doing ok.
For the long haul
Linda H
On April 17, 2012...
He is in my thoughts and prayers.
Linda Hillman Thanks to whoever this is. I will be sure to pass your thoughts and prayers onto his son Kevin.
For t ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks to whoever this is. I will be sure to pass your thoughts and prayers onto his son Kevin.
For the long haul
Linda H
On April 12, 2012...
Hi Linda, glad your Easter turned out nice and thank goodness about your friend's mom, that can be a scary thing but all turned out good. Not so sure about the tingling of the feet, I can swelling if I walk too much. Oh and the dentist thing, I'm so there with you. Tomorrow morning I go for my final dental appointment, had one on Monday, (my first cleaning ever) don't tell anyone. And tomorrow I am getting an extraction and an implant, at least they will put me to sleep but oh when I wake up I think there will be some pain. On the bright side, for my husband that is I am supposed to keep the talking to a minimum for 48 hours, he seems okay with that :).
So now only 3 weeks away and doing my best not to think about it all the time, (yeah right) so hard not to do.
I sure hope you find your answers soon and yeah it's a good thing to get that yucky dental stuff out of the way.
Getting closer,
Cindy P.
On April 6, 2012...
You know for the last oh 5 or 6 years I've been told I had Asthma so I was taking meds for that but still always felt like someone was sitting on me. Then 6 months ago when I saw my old cardio guy I told him I cough a lot and he tells me I might want to get that checked out, then this February when I saw him I told him my chest hurts when I go upstairs and I feel dizzy to which of course his reply was see ya in 5 months. The surgeon last week said, No you don't have Asthma, that cough will go away after we fix your heart. So yeah, we know our bodies and owe it to ourselves to find someone who will pay attention, age is not the answer to everything wrong with us....
Crocheting awww, I need to finish my blanket and I forgot my pattern since I haven't worked on it in forever, I think my mom will have to get me started again. :))
Hang in there Linda, Cindy P.
On April 6, 2012...
Hi Linda, hope you have a Happy Easter weekend. You know I ended up going for a second opinion myself and now I am scheduled for surgery May 7th. My old doctor said yep sounds like your becoming symtomatic and we'll see ya in 5 months. Anyway just thought I'd mention that to you, wish you all the best.
Cindy Pastrano
Linda Hillman Hi Cindy, Thanks for the info. I am going to be doing just that. My doctor keeps saying dont worry. I ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Cindy, Thanks for the info. I am going to be doing just that. My doctor keeps saying dont worry. If anybody tells me that again I told my husband that I would punch them including him. How can I be worrying while I have been busy crocheting afghans? Right now I am just waiting for June/july to come around for another echo and tilt table test. I tell him I have these problems of feeling like I am going to pass out and I have a pain in my chest and he doesnt know what it is. I know what it is. He just says I am getting old. Wrong thing to tell a woman she is getting old. I have things I would like to do but can't right now. Oh well. Glad you are getting your heart fixed so soon and hope all goes well for you. Keep me posted would love to hear from you. Good luck
For the long haul
Linda H
On April 6, 2012...
Linda, take care, and be careful with your exercise and activity level. Hope you get more info soon on your heart surgery plans. Have a Blessed Easter
- Jim Smith
Linda Hillman Hi Jim, I walk just 2 miles a day but I split it up one in the morning and one in the afternoon when ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Jim, I walk just 2 miles a day but I split it up one in the morning and one in the afternoon when it is cool. Found out I can't do anymore than that. I am just waiting for June/JUly to come so I will have another echo done and a tilt table test. If I dont like what the doctor says then I am going to see Ricki's doctor in Greenville and go from there. Tired of waiting as I have always been healthy all of my life. Glad your recovery is going well. Take care.
For the long haul
Linda H
On April 5, 2012...
Hang in there Linda!! Happy Easter!!
Jimmy Johnson
Linda Hillman I'm still hanging in here and trying not to fall. lol Just waiting for June or July to roll around wh ... Read more
Linda Hillman I'm still hanging in here and trying not to fall. lol Just waiting for June or July to roll around when I get another echo done and a tilt table test. If I dont like what the doctor says, I will be trying to go to Ricki's doctor in Greenville. Just not willing to wait for all of this. Im not use to having health problems as I have always been healthy all of my life. Dont see why that should change now. Talk to ya later.
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 16, 2012...
Linda,
My Cardiologist is Jon Bittrick at Upstate Cardiology. I see him in Greenville but they do have offices in Easley and maybe somewhere else?? Google them.
Good luck!
Ricki
Linda Hillman Thanks Ricki, Sorry Im late in getting back to you. I did look up his name in my provider book and he ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Ricki, Sorry Im late in getting back to you. I did look up his name in my provider book and he is there. I also did google him and he sounds like he does a lot. Just might be the answer I am looking for. Dr Albrecht said see you in 5 months but before for a tilt table test and another echo. So I will wait for that and get the results and then make appointment with him. Hope all is well with you. We should be meeting sometime this summer when Linda comes to Clemson, can't wait.
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 16, 2012...
Get a second opinion, I got 10
Linda Hillman To whoever this is, I might just have to until I get the answer right. My second one was last night w ... Read more
Linda Hillman To whoever this is, I might just have to until I get the answer right. My second one was last night when I said a pretty powerful prayer, and this is just what he just might be telling me.
For the long haul
LInda H
On March 16, 2012...
Linda,
Stick to you're guns. You are your best advocate.
I'd also encourage you to consider Rikki's advice below.
Chuck Holmgreen
3/20
Linda Hillman Thanks Chuck, I took it and I am. Saying prayers for you today. Hope all is ok.
For the long haul
Lin ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Chuck, I took it and I am. Saying prayers for you today. Hope all is ok.
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 16, 2012...
Linda,
If you're not comfortable with what your doctor is telling you, you might want to get a second opinion from another Cardiologist. I'd be happy to give you the name of mine in Greenville who I trust implicitly.
I had a completely different experience than you . . . I kept thinking I didn't need surgery but every step of the way my doctors kept telling me I NEEDED surgery and soon. But one thing I'm convinced of, you know your body the best and if you think something is wrong and needs to be fixed, you're probably right.
Ricki
Linda Hillman Hi Ricki, What is the name of your cardio doctor. I will see if he is on my insurance list that I can ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Ricki, What is the name of your cardio doctor. I will see if he is on my insurance list that I can go to. I know a lot of them in Greenville are. I just dont know Greenville that well but I do have GPS so no excuse lol.
When I had the echo done last Sept I was told he wanted to see me as soon as possible. Well that sets off bells. So I meet him and he says dont stress over this. What am I to think kowing what my family has been thru and I know what can happen not to mention getting into the computer and finding out a whole lot more about it. Then he does the tee test says it a little worse and he can send record to a sugeon someplace and when I meet him in his office he tells me to quit googling and yahooing and that I am getting old. I am only 65, and this all started right on my birthday. Sorry I ever had it. Hate to see Sept come this year, what kind of bad news I will have again. I had said I would wait to see what next echo does and then go send it all to a surgeon. Even if he says to wait for surgery for several months at least I would know and could live with it. I'm tired of everybody telling me to quit stressing. I'm a worry wart anyway. All I want to do is have a normal life and do things without worrying if I might do something crazy. Thanks for your info. Anyways Greenville is probably closer to me than Newberry.
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 13, 2012...
Hi Linda!
Thank you for your comment, I also attended Thornton high school but at night, they had night classes for adults back in 1984, I took typing classes there. That also was a very long time ago. It's great to see other heart patients, I am glad to have found this place.
On March 12, 2012...
Linda,
I feel like we're family by proxy. My sister, my son and I met my dad in Lavonia GA for dinner last night. He winters in Clinton SC. It was really nice to see him.
If you want to have your surgery earlier, talk to your doctor about it. Quality of life is important. I hate to encourage surgery, however I will always encourage quality of life.
I truly wish I could help you in some way to get to where you don't need to worry about the pains. If I could take your hand and bring you with me, I would.
Be well, I will always include you in my prayers.
Chuck Holmgreen
3/20
Linda Hillman Hi Chuck, Your to sweet. You can be my brother anytime. Actually Clinton isn't that far away from us. ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Chuck, Your to sweet. You can be my brother anytime. Actually Clinton isn't that far away from us. On the otherside of Greenwood towards Columbia.
I had told my doctor that I didn't to put this off until it gets bad. The cardio doctor said insurance (medicare) won't pay for it until it gets a certain until it gets to a certain area. Trouble is I don't always trust the tests. When I had hestericomy the tests were coming back ok but yet I had to have 2 pints of blood just for surgery.
Cardio doctor said see you in 5 months and will do another echo. So I am going to try and get first echo results and I will try and wait until July for the second and try and compare the two of them, and if feel and he doesn't I will get in touch with another doctor send results to them and go for it. Not that I want to get fileted or anything, but I have always been healthy all of my life so now that I am retired why should I feel like a water balloon or a time bomd just waiting to go off. Yeah the pains that I get occasionally are just annoying. I have told doctors about them for a long time and nothing was ever done about them. Now I know and I know that is exactly where the anuersym is and the valve if you saw my journal where I just copied it all down. Oh well enough of this.
I wish you good luck. You wil do fine. Maybe someday we all can meet when Linda D comes to Clemson this summer.
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 12, 2012...
Linda, thinking of you and know you will breeze through the surgery. We will compare notes. Here is to more energy and activities. Happy Recovery to you. Robert W.
Linda Hillman Hi Robert. Your on, but the way I am going you will probably beat me. I might just have to take every ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Robert. Your on, but the way I am going you will probably beat me. I might just have to take everything in my own hands and do what I have to do. I would love to have a little more energy. But until then my goal is just to keep loosing a little more weight so I will be ready.
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 11, 2012...
Linda,
Now that I have had surgery, I am beginning to think it is better to do it before it becomes a problem. Dr said I had tricuspid and there was only one opening barely functioning. Didn't how that bad on tests.
The anticipation was far worse than the surgery.
Good luck in your decision.
Jan
On March 11, 2012...
Hi Linda, glad you are still hanging around here and awesome of you to buy yourself a new dress. Feeling good about yourself makes all the hard work worth it. Keep up the good work!
-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman Thanks Mitch, Yeah Im staying around someday the tide will turn and soon I hope not that I want to ge ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Mitch, Yeah Im staying around someday the tide will turn and soon I hope not that I want to get fileted or anything. I just want to feel better.
For the long haul
LInda H
Holly P
Getting there
LInda H