Hi Linda, You so deserve that new dress. Thanks for your posts to my guestbook. Where is Honea Path?
- Jim Smith
Linda Hillman Hi Jim
First of all the song picked is awsome. Love the words.
Honea Path SC is between Anderson and ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Jim
First of all the song picked is awsome. Love the words.
Honea Path SC is between Anderson and Greenwood about 45 south of Greenville in the Upstate of SC.
I see you live in Athens Ga. I have been thru there on my way to see my brother who lives in Jasper.
Sometime this summer I am going to be meeting Linda D, and Ricki, in Clemson. You should try and join us, I think she also asked Jimmy Johnson too, WE also should get Chuck in on it too as he lives in Cummings Ga.
Enjoy NY and good luck to you.
For the long haul
LInda H
On March 6, 2012...
Thanks Betty Coms, I wasn't on the computer yesterday so I missed it. I will be looking forward to you to start journaling. It really does help you. Hope to see you here soon.
Linda H
On March 5, 2012...
Hi Linda,I am in the same situation you are with my heart.I haven't started to journal yet,but I love reading everyone's stories. I wanted to tell you Cleveland Clinic has a chat @ 12 today about Aortic disease.These are very informative and I thought you might like to join it.I'm happy to be able to follow your journal.Thanks! Betty Corns,Stokesdale,NC
On March 3, 2012...
Yes, Linda, lots of little reminders that we encounter daily. Take it in stride. You know you need to be fixed, just a matter of when. Until then, stay strong when you can, and it is OK when you can't. Just get right back on the horse as soon as you are ready.
It is so great of you to support all of us. You are the best!
Take care,
-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman Hey Mitch Well I would love to get back on the horse, but I sold them, and I miss them terribly.
Yea ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey Mitch Well I would love to get back on the horse, but I sold them, and I miss them terribly.
Yeah when I take my husband to our regular doctor, I will be telling him of this and been 2 winks of passing out while driving. Hope that was the first and last while doing that.No fun. Well take care and keep doing good. Talk to ya later.
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 3, 2012...
Linda, climbing stairs is the one thing that gets to me a little bit. I can walk on flat surfaces for miles, even the hilly terrain at Clemson and even climbed the stands at Clemson back in the fall. But something about climbing stairs, I have to stop and rest as well. That has been the case for a long time. But, my doctor has not been too concerned about that. I think it probably is the valve having to work a little harder.
Hang in there...your time will get here quicker than you think. I found out in November that "it was time" for me and have waited 4 months for the surgery. At first I complained about how long it was taking...now I want it to slow down!!! Not really...I am ready to get it over with and start a new chapter in this life.
Thank you for all of your support and encouragement, it means a lot to me. And I look forward to meeting you in person very soon. I know I will be in Clemson sometime during the summer helping to get Brittany situated. Maybe we can plan lunch together with Ricki.
I will "talk" again before I leave, keep me in your prayers. It's up one day, down the next right now.
REALLY JUST TOO CLOSE!!
Linda D.
Linda Hillman Hey Linda, Thats the first time I had to do the stairs. I have 4 little steps at home but that doesnt ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey Linda, Thats the first time I had to do the stairs. I have 4 little steps at home but that doesnt bother me. I not only had to do it once but twice as I had to go back when they got it all printed out. Told my husband the walk I did earlier and those stairs, that was enough for the day lol.
You were saying about your wait. I think I probably could handle that better knowing that there is a day,instead of being told it could be 5 months to 5 years. That is a little hard when you get these crazy little things going on in your life. I was always healthy all my life. Personally I would rather stay away from doctors, but I am glad they are there I think.
Just let me know when you will be at Clemson. I have never been there. I have gotten as far as Pendleton and looking on the map,that looks pretty close. My motto is have GPS will travel. My husband will probably with me as I dont think he likes me driving by myself after my little incident not to long ago. Talk later
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 2, 2012...
Linda,
Glad to hear that you had a fine day. Three miles is excellent - way to go. You are making it up the mountain, one step at a time. Take care.
- Jim Smith
Linda Hillman Thanks Jim, I'm trying. Just want to get to the top and down the other side. Just don't know when yet ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Jim, I'm trying. Just want to get to the top and down the other side. Just don't know when yet.
For the long haul
Linda H
On March 1, 2012...
Makes you all feel any better, well it probably wont. But they had my insurance all messed up and they tried to charge me the bill for my open heart surgery of $46,000 Yea its pretty expensive. That was just the surgery bill too. Their was other bills coming in. Good luck
Stephanie
On February 28, 2012...
I hear you Linda, I am waiting for the "bills" to start tolling in. I imagine the numbers will be unimaginable. Thanks goodness for insurance.
Yes, we all need to be our own advocates. Stay strong.
-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman Hey seeing all of that I say makes you go into relapse. And with that said waiting for a doctor one w ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey seeing all of that I say makes you go into relapse. And with that said waiting for a doctor one will be cured before you get in. I have an HMO off medicare and my cardio doctor in Greenwood does not take it. They submitted it and a little was paid but now I have a bill. He also has an office in Newberry SC an hour away that take the insurance. So it is worth driving to save a couple hundred dollars. Doesnt make sense to me. You take care.
For the long haul
Linda H
On February 28, 2012...
Hi Linda. If you are planning on having an echo off-insurance, ask them to charge you what they charge the insurance company. You can save 2/3 or more of the cost that way. You can shop around, since an echo is a routine test. This is a good strategy for many medical procedures. -- DVB
Linda Hillman Hi DVB, The paper I got wasn't an actural bill. It is what is submitted to insurance. I have an HMO f ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi DVB, The paper I got wasn't an actural bill. It is what is submitted to insurance. I have an HMO from medicare. Its just seeing something like that is mind boggling. Just hate to think what the rest of everything is going to be. No wonder medicare is running broke.Take care.
For the long haul
Linda H
On February 23, 2012...
Linda, please be sure to tell your doctor about these symptoms you are having, in particular feeling as though you may pass out. I think the criteria (measurements) they use to determine when surgery is indicated, is really based on non symptomatic patients. If you are having symptoms, that might change the opinion. Just be careful. Isn't the weather wonderful??? I hate to leave it for Cleveland, burrrrrrr.
REALLY getting closer...Linda
Linda Hillman Hey I goofed and put this back to myself.oops so here goes again.
Yea the weather is georgus. Wait ti ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey I goofed and put this back to myself.oops so here goes again.
Yea the weather is georgus. Wait till you go to CLE, it will be like culture shock. Yesterday I noticed some of the trees in bloom and when you go to CLE it will be like going back into the middle of Jan. Take warm clothes, as you will feel it being from the south
Anyway for the symtoms. I told Dr Albrecht that when i get out of a chair a lot I feel like the room gets dark. It goes right away. He thought it was something else and is going to do the tilt test to see. My doc in Sept did an EKG and blood pressure lying down then I had to get up and it went down some. Told her I was a little dizzy then. That was also a sign they were looking for. He has me waiting cause he said I wasnt there yet. In Sept it measured 3.2 and now it is 3.7. Dr Google says that 4 starts at severe. So I am almost there. Stephanie is taking bets on me for being in the fall. I say probably going into winter. Everybody said to relax but it is hard when you dont know from minute to minute what I might do. Just glad my husband was with me today. He doesnt like me driving by myself right now, but I do cause he doesnt always want to go where I have to. I feel like a walking time bomb. When I get this done I will probably have to tell them to do a little brain surgery also, to get all this stuff out of here. I have always been healthy and now look. I feel like a hypocondracte (sp). I didnt even stay home from school with cramps. Guess I was saving it for now. lol Oh well talk to ya later.
For the long haul Linda H
On February 23, 2012...
Linda,
Congratulations! That is excellent news. Everyone's body is different and if you're really lucky, your valve disease won't progress very quickly and you'll never have to have the surgery.
I'm very happy for you!
Ricki
Linda Hillman Hi Ricki, Well dont know if its good or not. Still have the nasty little moments that always pop up, ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Ricki, Well dont know if its good or not. Still have the nasty little moments that always pop up, I just never know. Looking forward to meeting you and Linda whenever she is feeling better. Talk to ya later.
For the long haul Linda H
On February 22, 2012...
I think the wait is good since you don't yet meet the criteria for surgery. Those criteria are fairly well-tuned, so enjoy this time knowing that it's smarter to wait and avoid the surgical risk for now. It sounds like your cardiologist is keeping a good eye on you. Keep the beat -- DVB
Linda Hillman Thank you for your post,not sure who you are,but thank you anyway. I feel good right now even though ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thank you for your post,not sure who you are,but thank you anyway. I feel good right now even though I do have things that happen from day to day. But I am going to do what everybody here has said to relax and enjoy, my time will come and I will be ready.
Until Later Linda H
On February 22, 2012...
So Linda, I see your visit with the doctor went well! You dodged the ole surgery bullet for now! Yay! Now, get out your pom poms and cheer for those of us whose time has come! You may stay at that measurement for a long, long time. Just be sure and have those follow up tests at least yearly. I know you will. In the meantime, you have discovered this site and by the time for surgery comes (if it ever does) you will be an expert!!!
Take care and we still need to get together near Clemson once I recover.
Your friend getting closer...Linda Dixon
Linda Hillman Hi Linda, You bet I am going to be here. I feel like I have a whole new family here and I love it. So ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Linda, You bet I am going to be here. I feel like I have a whole new family here and I love it. So I will be giving the cheers and hoorays out to all of you and prayers too. I am so thankful that I found this and such wonderful people. I will probably be the oldest one on here after a while. I went to church tonight and everybody was glad to hear some good news. My daughter Stephanie said she wrote you a note as well.
And yes I can't wait to meet you and Ricki.
I feel like Im in this horse race between Mitch, Nancy and Jimmy they are all winning and you are coming up and I am saying wait for me. Now my horse has decided to sit down and take a rest. I think I gave you my email address and I think I might have yours. Does it have tiger in it? Well take care and talk to you soon.
Until Much Later Linda H
On February 22, 2012...
Hi Linda, the key is you have information. With information comes power. If the people that know say you can wait, then that is a very good thing. You know what is likely in the future, don't dwell on it. Live life to the fullest, and if/when the times comes for you to get fixed, you will be ready. No doubt!
Now, huge exhale. I wish you all the best.
-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman Thanks Mitch for the good wishes. You better believe I am not going anywhere. I will probably be the ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Mitch for the good wishes. You better believe I am not going anywhere. I will probably be the longest one on here when it comes right down to it. I am going to stay here and cheer everybody on and pray for all of you too. I wish you all the best. I was telling Linda that I am watching a horse race between you Nancy and Jimmy and LInda coming up and me saying wait for me and my horse decides to take a rest. So for the next 5 months I will put this problem aside for now, but I know it will not go away. So we will see what happens in 5 months when I get another echo done. Then it starts all over. You take care and keep improving your friend
Until Much Later LInda H
On February 22, 2012...
Congratulations Linda. My wish for you is some serious relaxation.
Be good and keep up the cheering section!!
Chuck Holmgreen.
Linda Hillman Thanks Chuck, dont worry Im not going any where I will be here cheering you all on. After all this is ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Chuck, dont worry Im not going any where I will be here cheering you all on. After all this is my new found family and I am so glad I found it. Your time is coming up pretty soon, so I wish you all kinds of luck. Talk to you later. Your friend
Until Much Later LInda H
On February 22, 2012...
Sounds like you had a good visit with the ole doc!!! Keep up what you are doing, you are on the right track. Love you !!
Patti
Linda Hillman Hey yeah had a good visit with doc. We had a few laughs. Told me to stop googling. Told him Im doing ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey yeah had a good visit with doc. We had a few laughs. Told me to stop googling. Told him Im doing this website. It is wonderful a lot of new friends here. We will see in 5 months what happens. It will always be in my mind wondering, but I know how to deal with it with all of my good friends and family. Just tell my bro to watch himself with heart murmur. Thats how mine started, keep check on it. Lets plan to get tongether sometime this summer. Would love to see you guys. Until Later Linda H
On February 22, 2012...
let us know how it went today at the cardio. Dave and I are praying and thinking about you !!!
Patti
On February 21, 2012...
Good luck tomorrow, Linda. Just remember, no matter what the verdict is...we are all here to help you and support you. You have seen just how successful the surgeries are when done by experienced surgeons and you will do great! Hope you like the doctor, ask lots and lots of questions. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Let us know how it goes. Will say an extra prayer for you tonight!
Linda Dixon
Linda Hillman Thanks Linda I feel pretty good tonight. My stress level is I have to be in Newberry by 830 am and I ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Linda I feel pretty good tonight. My stress level is I have to be in Newberry by 830 am and I have never been there before. Thank heaven for GPS.. I have done my homework and tell my thoughts and I am sure he will tell me his. I just know I dont want to put this off any longer than I have to. So I hope he goes along with me.
Stay tuned for the rest of the story tomorrow. Linda H
On February 21, 2012...
Your worried feelings are normal mom. We all go through them. You worry about everything and anything. Things you dont even need to worry about you do. Just rest and keep up your walking as you can. everything is going to be fine. Your stressed about the whole thing thats one other reason why your so tired. You are gonna be fine. Just try and relax. The doc is gonna get you fixed up pretty soon. We love you and your doing great.
Stephie
Linda Hillman Thats what Moms do. You do it to. Love you
On February 20, 2012...
Hey Linda, our moutains are actually pretty high too! But...we can and we will do it! Your feelings are absolutely completely normal. Each one of us go through up and down emotions. No matter how long we have known we have problems, hearing "it's time" sent all of us into a bit of shock. No matter how prepared we thought we were, we weren't. You will have good days and not so good days. Some days I think I may actually be having some symptoms, other days I feel perfectly fine. When I think about it too hard, I hear my heart beating in my ears.
It is a stressful situation, no way around that. Anyone who says they never had a moment of anxiety is lying. Or else they aren't human! You are a sweet soul, you are just like the rest of us. You are going to be fine. You are also going to say "waiting was the hardest part" when you are on the other side of that mountain, sliding down all the way, yelling yippeeeeeee!!! I DID IT!!!
Your SC friend...Linda Dixon
Linda Hillman Thanks Linda. I think I can already say that waiting is the hardest part. When I saw cardio doctor la ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Linda. I think I can already say that waiting is the hardest part. When I saw cardio doctor last Sept. he said see you in 4 months. Well 4 months came and I still didn't hear from him. So I went to my regular doctor and told him and gave him a list of names of other cardio doctors in Anderson. At the same time I finally had a date for the ultrasound, and doctors appt and tee test all in one shot. Talk about something hitting me right in the face. I guess I could call that a rehersal maybe. And the rest is history.
Until Later Linda H
On February 20, 2012...
Linda,
You and I have a few things in common. I was born in Colorado - I see you are "from" there.
I have family in SC, Greenville, Clinton & Columbia. My mother grew up in Enoree.
I think all of us that are farther down the path understand clearly your feelings. Mitch does a great job of communicating them.
I clearly remember the night I was sitting on the couch next to my wife when all of a sudden, I broke down and crumbled. We had put our son to bed and were watching some TV and having light conversation. All of a sudden, this wave came over my like a tsunami. The wave was, "OH MY GOD -- They're going to stop my heart!!!" And I fell apart.
I'm lucky to have a wife that has a really solid personality and a great head on her shoulders. We talked about it and she got me through the wave. Knowing that I can talk with her about ANYTHING has really helped. I know I don't have to keep anything hidden. I hope you have that type of support from your husband. And I strongly suggest that you use it. For me, it really, really helps.
Chuck Holmgreen
AVR 3/20
Linda Hillman Where in Colo were you born? Hope all is going all right with you.
Until Later Linda H
On February 20, 2012...
Hi Linda, try to stay strong. This is all very hard, emotionally and physically. Do the best you can.
Sounds like you are getting very close to getting some real answers. You have done all the tests, big day on Wednesday. I wish you all the best of luck, answers and some clarity on next steps.
Good luck.
-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman Thanks Mitch. Had a good day today and I dont have the butterflied I had last week. I guess cause I t ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Mitch. Had a good day today and I dont have the butterflied I had last week. I guess cause I told Dr Albrecht that he intimedated me cause of the word cardio behind his name. We had a laugh and now I feel good until I meet the next one lol. Stay tuned for the rest of the story tomorrow.
Until Later Linda H
On February 16, 2012...
Thanks Linda for the welcome,hang in there you will be fine ,try not to worry when i first found out 15 years ago i was a mess. With all the technology now its almost routine.I have not had that t test yet,im still buying time.Keep me posted,your friend Tony
Linda Hillman Thats a long time to know what is wrong and not do anything about it. I hope everything goes ok for y ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thats a long time to know what is wrong and not do anything about it. I hope everything goes ok for you. I meet my cardio doctor tomorrow and we will see what happens next.
Until later Linda H
On February 11, 2012...
Hi Linda, thanks so much for all of your support. I am doing much better and am way more realistic about my recovery. The body is truly amazing, if you let it be. Your diagnosis is exactly the same as mine. If I can answer any questions for you, let me know. Also, if you want to consider coming to NYC for surgery, I can provide contact info for two of the top surgeons here. Both will knock your socks off.
Keep up the good, hard work. Get informed and get a date.
All the best,
-Mitch Friedman
On February 9, 2012...
Hi Linda, about Cleveland Clinic. I had to choose a surgeon, I decided on Dr. Marc Gillinov, and contacted Adam Pick who sent him a note to contact me. You can do this yourself however by going to the Cleveland Clinic website. The next day I received an email telling me everything I needed to send them for him to review. After I rounded up all the text results, CD's etc. and sent them by overnight mail, it took about a week before I received a call from his nurse stating that he agreed with my diagnosis and that surgery should be done probably within 4 or 5 months and gave me his first available surgery date. I do not have to go up there until just before the surgery. You go one day for an echo and blood work, the next day to meet with the surgeon when he will go over all your test results and explain what he will be doing. Then surgery the next day. I am flying up there. Insurance is probably not going to be a problem there, they are providers in many insurance networks. They accept Medicare and I have been told by other people who have been there that they accept what Medicare pays and you only get 1 bill that includes everything, not a bunch of bills for surgeon, lab, anesthesia, etc. If you think you might want to consider going there, check out their website, it has all the information you could ask for. And if you decide to go there, they have a medical consierge that will handle all of your travel arrangements, accomodations for you. They will even provide free of charge a limo from the airport to your hotel. I have been very impressed with everyone I have talked to up there. Good luck with making a decision. I know how hard it is. Just be sure that the surgeon who does your surgery does more than 3 or 4 per year, sadly that is the average of most surgeons. At the large facilities like Cleveland, Emory, etc they do them every day. Keep me posted. If I can answer any questions I will be happy to.
Getting closer...Linda Dixon
Linda Hillman Hi Linda, Thanks for all the info. It will come in handy. Dr Albrecht had mentioned your Dr's name an ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Linda, Thanks for all the info. It will come in handy. Dr Albrecht had mentioned your Dr's name and said he could send everything to him. Of course its all up to insurance (Windsor). That will take about 14 days they said. My daughter in law wants me to go to CLE. She knows some of the doctors there. So I guess we will be talking about all of this when I see doctor on the 22nd. Hope all is going good for you.
Until Later Linda H
On February 8, 2012...
Congratulations Linda. You and I are very similar. I'm having my procedure done in the Atlanta area. I have a few more questions, however, I'm 95% sure I'll be using Dr. Alan Wolfe at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville (just north of Atlanta).
Chuck Holmgreen.
Linda Hillman Hi Chuck, Thank you for your post. It has prompted me to start making a list of surgeons and hospital ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Chuck, Thank you for your post. It has prompted me to start making a list of surgeons and hospitals. Have so many things to thinks about, it is kinda over whelming. But I do have time and thats good. Of course I guess it is really up to doctor to help and the biggest is the insurance as I have an HMO from medicare. I told my doctore yesterday the first thing I want is to be able to pronounce his name. With my insurance in Greenwood there is only one and I can't even begin to pronounce his name. Oh well guess we will see after I see him on the 22nd.
Until Later Linda H
On February 8, 2012...
Yay Linda!!! I knew you would do it!! Not something we want to do on a regular basis, but not the worst thing in the world either. You will probably eventually need a cath too and that is actually a piece of cake, nothing to it. I guess we are in the same boat. I have aortic stenosis and aneurysm also. I had considered going to Emory, actually had all of my tests sent there for Dr. Guyton to review. He is highly respected in the field. I ended up not going there, am going to Cleveland instead, because Emory is not in my insurance network and it would have taken an act of congress to get through all the red tape. Atlanta would be a lot more convenient but I'm just looking at it as God's will for me to go to Cleveland instead. Look up Cindy Kenward on this site, she had the same surgery at Emory just a couple of months ago and has done absolutely amazing!
So....get plenty of rest today and keep us updated. God bless!
Getting closer...Linda Dixon
Linda Hillman Hey Linda, Thank you for your post. I was telling Chuck that I am starting to make a list of surgeons ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey Linda, Thank you for your post. I was telling Chuck that I am starting to make a list of surgeons and hospitals. Of course the big hurdle is insurance. I have an HMO off medicare. I have already called them for info. So it is up to doctor and what he recommends also. Guess we will be talking about it on the 22nd. He was saying Emory or somplace north. I thought it might be CLE. I sent an email out to my family to get thoughts. Right now CLE is coming in, but now we have to decide how to get there and back safely. Did you have to meet your doctor there before hand? That can be a problem with all the miles and the price of gas going so high these days, esp there. So I guess we will see on the 22nd what will happen. All I know is I do not want to put this off until it gets worse.
Well until later Linda H
On February 8, 2012...
Mom had her TEE test. She is home and doing good.
Stephanie
Linda Hillman Stephanie is my daughter, who at age 29 had aortic stenosis. She had a valve replaced with a mechanic ... Read more
Linda Hillman Stephanie is my daughter, who at age 29 had aortic stenosis. She had a valve replaced with a mechanical valve.
On February 8, 2012...
CONGRATULATIONS Linda!!!
Amazing update!!!
Wooo-hooo!!!
Keep on tickin!
Adam Pick
Linda Hillman Thanks Adam. It makes me feel pretty good doing all of this hard work. I actually call it part of my ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Adam. It makes me feel pretty good doing all of this hard work. I actually call it part of my recovery. That is what my doctor said it would help, so I am a little upside down, I guess I can call my real recovery, survival.
Until Later Linda H
On February 7, 2012...
Hi - when we are all thru this we shall shop shop shop together. Congrats on the weight loss ! Super ! I'm climbing up the mountain next few days. Like you eager to move on this. ! NANc
Linda Hillman Hey Nancy, I'm all for shopping as my clothes are getting pretty loose. Mitch said he felt like Steve ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey Nancy, I'm all for shopping as my clothes are getting pretty loose. Mitch said he felt like Steve Austin the 6 million dollar man. So therefore I think we all should meet someplace and see if we can run 60 MPH. Good luck in your recovery.
Until Later Linda H
On February 7, 2012...
Linda, you are too sweet! Hey 2 Lindas, both from South Carolina...why honey, what more can you ask for??? Good luck tomorrow with the TEE, you will do fine. Remember, "if God brings you to it, He will bring you through it".
Have you in my prayers. Let us know how it goes tomorrow. When I had my TEE, the doctor told me right then what he saw.
Getting closer...Linda Dixon
On February 6, 2012...
Linda, I have the same aortic stenosis and an ascending aortic aneurysm and am facing surgery on March 13th. My emotions can go all over the place, from down and weepy to "I'm just not going to do it" to I can do this, everyone says I can! One thing that everyone on the journal site says is that the waiting is the hardest part, much harder than the surgery itself. As hard as that is to believe sometimes...I do believe it. Try not to be afraid. Just make sure whoever does your surgery has LOTS of experience doing that exact surgery...that is the key to good outcomes. As one surgeon told one of our journal friends...it's just another day at work for them, they do it all the time. I find that as my date gets closer I don't stress as much. Just remember we are all here for you...when you're stressed...get on your journal...that's what it's for! Hang tough, you can do it! You will be fine!
Linda Dixon
Linda Hillman Hey Linda, Thanks for all of your support. I really do appreicate it. It really does help being on th ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hey Linda, Thanks for all of your support. I really do appreicate it. It really does help being on this sight. I will be thinking about you tomorrow as I go for that tee test. Until Later Linda H
On February 3, 2012...
Linda...you can do this, I know you can...after all...your name is Linda!! You will be fine! You have all of us to support you! Hang tough my fellow South Carolinian ( I know...you are a transport, but you're still one of us!!!)
Tee test no biggie...don't worry! You will do fine. I have you in my thoughts and prayers. Janis Kielbasa 5 weeks post op
Linda Hillman Hi Janis, Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. I to have been doing the same thing for everyone. ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Janis, Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. I to have been doing the same thing for everyone. Its just I dont like doctors. I can talk to my family doctor ok, but when you put cardio after your name that kind of intemidates me a little.lol
On February 2, 2012...
Linda...hang in there, you are going to do fine. All the tests are necessary and I found them all to be alot easier that what I had imagined. The TEE is a piece of cake and I had my cardiac cath right after it....with the drugs they gave me, I don't recall the TEE and just bits/pieces of the cardiac cath...no pain whatsoever.
You and I have similar issues and I had my surgery about 3 months ago and am doing great. You will too.
I will be keeping up with you....
JH Mattingly
Linda Hillman Hi JH, Im a hanging and try not and fall. I guess I watch to much tv like Grays Antomy, Private Pract ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi JH, Im a hanging and try not and fall. I guess I watch to much tv like Grays Antomy, Private Practice and A Gifted Man. Esp when Gray Antomy was about aortic anuersym a couple of times. Had to turn away. This sight is great and I have been telling everyone that I know about it. so glad I found it. Im just starting all of this so dont know what my next surprise will be. I guess it gets a little scary when the instructions say shower with Dial night before and day of and bring an over night case just in case. That can rattle the nerves a little bit. Well until later Linda H
On February 2, 2012...
Hi Linda, I had a TEE several years ago. It isn't the most pleasant test I have ever had done, but it also was not as bad as I imagined it to be. I don't have to have that before my surgery unless they plan to do it after I am under anesthesia. Yes, I am so happy to hear Mitch is out of surgery and doing well. Can't wait to hear from him himself. Carmen and Kelly are also having surgery today, but so far we have not gotten any word on them.
Maybe that will come soon.
Thanks for the update, keep us posted.
Still waiting...Linda Dixon
Linda Hillman Hi Linda, I have been thinking about you. Your date is getting a little close too. Thanks for your po ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Linda, I have been thinking about you. Your date is getting a little close too. Thanks for your post, if they knock me out, I will be fine, the ultra sound yesterday, I had a funny look of oh no. They told they werent going to hurt me, and I told them i knew that it was just all of the results. I was a little confused when the doctor told me the anuersym was going into my neck and this was adonomal. Maybe it was because of my Dad. She said they just check it all, so hope I dont have any additional surprises. We will see on the 22nd when I see the cardio doctor. Until then Linda H
On January 26, 2012...
I will be checking here often, Linda and praying that all goes as planned and you are back to your old self again.
On January 25, 2012...
Linda, I chose Cleveland Clinic because it has been ranked #1 in heart surgery for several years. Where they may do dozens of heart valve replacements per year at hospitals here in South Carolina, they do thousands at Cleveland Clinic and they have lots of experience with difficult cases, their mortality rate is significantly lower than the national average. I just started researching years ago when I heard that I would eventually need replacement and just felt most comfortable going there where they have a lot of experience. Problem is...waiting until March 13th! That is the first opening Dr. Gillinov had and I was scheduled the week after Christmas. So I will fly up on March 8th, have testing on Friday, March 9th, Monday March 12th will meet with Dr. Gillinov and then surgery on Tuesday March 13th. At least that is the plan now. If they call me to come earlier, I will be ready. Just ready to get it behind me.
Love this site, you get so much support, it has really been a blessing.
Let's keep in touch and if I can offer any advice it would be....try to stay positive, it's difficult at times, I can hardly believe it is really happening, but what can you do???
Still waiting....Linda Dixon
Linda Hillman Yes I will stay in touch with you. We can hold hands in thoughts and prayers. Might want to pack warm ... Read more
Linda Hillman Yes I will stay in touch with you. We can hold hands in thoughts and prayers. Might want to pack warm clothes to go to CLE. We moved here a couple years ago from Erie Pa. The old saying there is anythink can happen up to St Patricks day that is snow. Good luck to you.
Linda
On January 25, 2012...
Hey Linda,
You already know you are in my thoughts and prayers and of course you know that you can call me anytime of the day or night that you need me. God is watching over you. You are doing great!
Donna Ross
Linda Hillman Thanks Donna. Im glad I found this sight. I will journal in it as time goes on. I have already meant ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thanks Donna. Im glad I found this sight. I will journal in it as time goes on. I have already meant people on here and it is so nice hearing what they are going through.
On January 25, 2012...
I just signed up for this also. So glad I found it through facebook. Although I sas this sight a while back when I was thirsty for any thing I could find about this. But I did go through this with my daughter Stephanie, who told Mitch her life story, I enjoyed reading your journals Ricki, Linda Dixon and Mitch. It really does help.
My goal is when I see the cardio doctor is to have my 10% of weight off. He had told me to loose weight as it would help out with my recovery. How many people do you know that are in recovery before the big day? Well anyway I went to Weight Watchers last night and found out I lost another 2.6 pounds. Yay for me. Told my leader that I had until Feb 22nd to meet my goal. Only 2 pounds to go. Hope he notices as I have only seen him one time. My family doctor noticed that I have lost a lot. He had told me my top weight since I have been going to him since 2009 and I have now lost 38 pounds. But like you Linda D. I was waiting and waiting for the 4 months to go by, wondering what was going on, then I got in mail for tests to come. Since then I have been getting butterflies. Think that is why I am loosing, its eating all the fat. lol I do move around slowlyand try not to overdo. If I do I will get a little dizzy or lightheaded. The neighbors have been wonderful walking with me to make sure I dont do a nose dive. Like today when my shoe came untied and had to tie it and was a little dizzy getting back up. Well got to go for my other walk. Talk to yall later. Good luck Mich will be thinking about you on Feb 2nd.
On January 25, 2012...
Were all prayin for you mom. Your gonna be just fine and good as new before you know it and were so proud of you with your weight watchers. Keep up the good work. God is holding your hands. :)
Welcome to HVJ . . . I'm sure you'll find it as helpful as I have.
I live close to you - Greenville although I had my surgery in Cleveland. I have flound my after-care here in Greenville to be excellent. I did my rehab at St. Francis Hospital's new facility on Laurens Road. It was great!
If you read some journals, you'll see that the surgery is not as horrible as you probably imagine it will be. Feel free to ask any questions you have . . . that's what we're here for!!
My best advice - stay calm! (I know it's hard but it REALLY helps!)
Ricki Shine
Linda Hillman Hi Ricki I enjoyed reading your journal and am so glad you are doing so good now. We do live pretty c ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Ricki I enjoyed reading your journal and am so glad you are doing so good now. We do live pretty close. I was surprised to see that you went to
Cleveland. Did your doctor recommend it to you? My heart doctor said if this is to bad he might send me to Emery or Duke. Well I cant see my husband driving in ATL and Duke is 4 hours away. But CLE is a lot further, but 2 years ago we moved from Erie Pa to here and so glad we did, as the doctor went further cause of all the aortic problems in my family. My life hasnt been the same since. So glad I found this sight and will use it often. My daughter Stephanie had mechanical valve put in 3 years ago. She was only 29 at the time. I was there for that, so I guess I kinda have a heads up on this. Well talk to ya later. LInda H
On January 24, 2012...
Hi Linda...love your name...I am also Linda and I am also from South Carolina. Not all that we have in common...I have critical aortic stenosis and an ascending aortic aneurysm! I am going to Cleveland Clinic for surgery on March 13th. So, my friend..we have much in common. Wish I could offer more advice, but since I haven't "been there yet" I would just say to take advantage of this site. You will get so much support and encouragement. There are already some people that I feel like I have known my whole life and they can turn your day completely around if you are feeling stressed and ready to freak!
Good to "meet" you, please keep us updated on your tests. I will keep you in my prayers.
Linda Dixon
Linda Hillman Hi Linda. Like your name to. Well it looks like we can hold hands.lol. I wish the best for you and wi ... Read more
Linda Hillman Hi Linda. Like your name to. Well it looks like we can hold hands.lol. I wish the best for you and will keep you in my prayers as well. Why are you going to CLE? Was is recommended to you by your doctor? My doctor said if this is to bad for me to go to Greenwood he mght send me to Emery or Duke. My family doctor said Columbia has a real good hospital also. I am glad I found this sight and will use it a lot. I am already experiencing the butterflies even while Im trying to stay busy. Well talk to ya later. Good luck.
On January 24, 2012...
Linda, welcome to HVJ. We all know what you are going through and are here to lend support. Ask any questions you have, simply state your feelings, or just write about your experiences. This amazing community will rise up and help you on your journey. Best of luck to you.
-Mitch Friedman
Linda Hillman Thank you Mitch. I am glad I found this sight and will be using it a lot.I will be thinking about you ... Read more
Linda Hillman Thank you Mitch. I am glad I found this sight and will be using it a lot.I will be thinking about you on Feb 2nd as I am having ultasound done. Good luck to you. Linda H
- Jim Smith
First of all the song picked is awsome. Love the words.
Honea Path SC is between Anderson and ... Read more
First of all the song picked is awsome. Love the words.
Honea Path SC is between Anderson and Greenwood about 45 south of Greenville in the Upstate of SC.
I see you live in Athens Ga. I have been thru there on my way to see my brother who lives in Jasper.
Sometime this summer I am going to be meeting Linda D, and Ricki, in Clemson. You should try and join us, I think she also asked Jimmy Johnson too, WE also should get Chuck in on it too as he lives in Cummings Ga.
Enjoy NY and good luck to you.
For the long haul
LInda H