Aubrey Elmo Jones posted a note for Lynn that says: Everyone has to be managed individually for the meds but basically they Are balancing a few things with them.

The first is the pain and it worked very well for me. I am pretty drug resistant but came home on only one pain tab every three hours, hydrocodone, which you can take two every 4 hours. So I was using a lighter dose and it worked for me. You have to find your level to keep yourself pain free and still functional to walk and begin normal activities after a few days. Also, I came home with some Xanax to take at night with the pain pill to help me relax to sleep. Sleep is very important to help you progress and let the body rest

The second thing is heart rate. The heart is being fooled with and mine started out at over 100/ min resting rate after surgery and the beta blocker started slowing this down in a day or two. It is down to less than 70 now, so good progress.

The third thing is to get the fluid out of the body that has built up from IVs, surgery, etc. This is usually something like LASIK and with that is probably potassium to keep that from washing out with the LASIK.

A fourth thing may be something like a blood thinner like aspirin or another substitute.

I expect to come off of all of them except the beta blocker, which I had before for a different reason and aspirin which is really healthy to keep the blood slippery so to speak.

What is described here is pretty normal but you may have something different based on your metabolism or other possible previous issues.

They do this all the time and our responsibility is to help them understand how we react as individuals to help them advise us on the adjustments and level that work for us. Not difficult but may be a call or two to the nurse for directions. Hope this helps, it seems like a lot but it is pretty simple when you understand what they are actually trying to accomplish.

Aubrey Elmo Jones posted a note for Lynn that says: Lynn, I was in exactly the same position. No clogged arteries, healthy heart otherwise. This made my procedure more straightforward and the recovery outlook better. I expect that you will do the same or better.

Take my word for it, do not dread this. It is more like a speed bump in the road of life and unless you experience something different, you will pass this with flying colors.

We are so fortunate to be able to fix what is wrong with us. I look forward to hearing about your great journey as well.

If there is anything I can answer let me know.

Cheryl Rowe posted a note for Lynn that says: Lynn, sending you loving thoughts every day. My 83 year old father just had emergency open heart surgery for a torn aorta & he is home from the hospital & thriving...I know you will come through your surgery with flying colors! I look forward to going for a walk with you soon

Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says: Lynn
I am smiling with you. Having a date is a great thing. My date is November 5th so we are in the same graduating class. We will have the perfect opportunity to track our running recovery. I will have mitral and you will have aortic so it will be interesting to track how the recovery paths are the same or different.

Congratulations to you, you will do great!
Best.

Elsa Roberts posted a note for Lynn that says: Loving thoughts and my prayers are with you on your journey - I feel I know you so well having read your journal - in fact we are new friends through Philippa and your dear Steve and Erin. I will read your recovery on line - I have such faith in all the remarkable doctors in this country - I feel so positive for you ... Afrikaans is not my language, but show this to Steve and he can translate " Vasbyt en min dae" .. until the surgery is behind you and you are on your way to a superb recovery

Higgy posted a note for Lynn that says: Hang in there Lynn. I am glad you have your date and doctor. Sounds like you have a fantastic support system. They will carry you through this hard time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Glenys Claverie posted a note for Lynn that says: Oh, excellent news and what a relief this must be. A definite date always helps as we have something specific to plan for. I'm sure you'll meet this next challenge full on as you have up to now and know we are all thinking of you. I've read through some of the comments left by other people and you really are lucky to have so many wonderful, caring people to help you through this journey. I love Ernie's little bits of advice - what a hoot!
I love that quote from the Excellent Marigold hotel - so true...:)
Take care and now for the count down to things turning to the positive. xxx

Gabrielle Stinson posted a note for Lynn that says: Oh I remember the feeling of finally getting a date set for surgery! It wont be long now just a few short weeks to get sorted. I was a bit like you I only shared with my immediate family (and this site) about my op. I did not want to attract negative energy and the more people who know the more your husband will have to inform. I did not want my dear husband Kevin to have to deal with that after a long day at the hospital with me. Afterwards it is gr8 to share I felt very proud! Sending all my love and best wishes to you Lynn. Blessings from Australia! G x

Jim posted a note for Lynn that says: Hi, Ty :)
I hope all are well. Your blog is really informative and very well written. We are glad that your trip was enjoyable.
You are on top of things and we are are seriously impressed. Please keep up your writing. We send you vibes of continued strength and healing. Please give everyone our love and hellos.
Love and Cheers,
Jimmy and Bob :)

Shannon Christmann posted a note for Lynn that says: Hey there, Lynn. I am so happy that you have settled on a date! You are in my daily thoughts and meditations, which usually occur around the beautiful surroundings of Taman TAR during my morning walk -- a place you spent so many glorious years. You are so loved, Lynn.

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Lynn that says: Yay Lynn!!

When I have more energy I will write a journal with more advice, such as maybe having some hand gestures or notes to point at while in ICU. My ICU nurse was the worst at charades EVER! Thankfully, my sister was there and could usually guess what I was trying to indicate.

You really do get more emotional during recovery, or at least I have, and it's mostly out of frustration. You really have to learn to be patient. family and friends will be INVALUABLE in so many ways. Pain is pretty manageable,so don't worry too much about that. Just got keep on top of your pain meds.

Laurie O\'Neill posted a note for Lynn that says: Two days before my BD--it's a good month and an almost perfect date! Call me if you need me--I'll come runnin-////

ravi posted a note for Lynn that says: Great news about the date. Are you feeling up for visitors this weekend?

Stacy posted a note for Lynn that says: Just read your note about setting THE date. Good for you and now you are in the home stretch! Prayers continuing for your surgical team and for your full recovery.

Michael Rome posted a note for Lynn that says: Lynn,

I had been thinking about contacting you around your 60th. But now is a good time. Your excellent health now bespeaks success for the operation and a complete recovery. Good luck and I'll keep track of your posts

Helen Roy posted a note for Lynn that says: Hi Lynn I really hope your surgery goes well. I understand what you say about feeling like you have lost your good health but once recovered hopefully you feel like a 'heart patient' you just feel like you have been given a whole new lease of life. And you will be amazed at how much better you feel once you are over the trauma of the surgery.

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Lynn that says: Keep smiling. Thinks positive.Make sure the nurses and aides place things easy to reach for you before they leave the room when you are recovering. And make sure that when you are in bed that you are far enough up in the bed to reach the controls for raising and lowering the bed. Also, when people visit, make sure the visits are short and spread out. Long visits with a bunch of people, though very enjoyable, will tire you out more than you think. Lot's of luck. Stool softener and laxatives will be your best friends. Use the hell out of the spirometer, and eat good protein to heal.

Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says: Hey Lynne
I just read Ernie's guestbook. Looks like you are in Venice? Good for you! I hope the vacation is wonderful for you. A great pre- surgery ritual.
My wife and I just returned from 2 weeks in Italy- Rome, Florence and Venice. I bet we walked some of the same streets in Venice.
All the best in the coming days!

Julie Watters posted a note for Lynn that says: Hey Lynn,
You've been on my mind a lot even if I haven't written. Sorry about that. I know it's last minute, but Sam and I will be in Marin on Saturday afternoon for a friend's wedding party at China Camp at 2 pm. If you are available and up for company, we would love to see you either before or after. If not, I'd like to come up another time and visit with you. I am so mad at myself for not hanging out with you more when you were right down the block.
I am proud of you for all you are doing for yourself to prepare for your surgery. Hope to see you soon.

Love, Julie

Love, Julie

Gabrielle Stinson posted a note for Lynn that says: Hi Lyn, I love the sound of your friends and believe in the Law of Attraction. and you have attracted great friends into your life. I especially love Phillipa's quotes from he Dad e.g. wait and see etc. Did you ever see the movie. The Best Excellent Marigold Hotel with Judi Dench? I love the saying 'everything will be alright in the end and if its not alright its not the end' Anyway October is getting closer now for you to have your life saving op. My love & best wishes to you dear Lynn. Love Gabi x

Philippa Morrison posted a note for Lynn that says: I will wave to you across the Channel Lynn---have a GREAT trip!You can't complain---honestly the things some people will do to get a trip across to Europe!!LOL Love ya xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
PS....Sorry couldn't resist that one!And you know that's what Gillian would say too! ----Take care

Philippa posted a note for Lynn that says: Great to hear all went well with the cardiac catheterization . Thank goodness.And now it is .Una alla volta.....as my Pa used to say......Italian for ONE STEP AT A TIME.....Anothet good saying of his was "wait and see.......because there's nothing to see till you've waited " !! He was a great man amd gave very good advice......Wish you were coming to London too....I could meet you.I realise the allure of Paris and Venice though.....have a wonderful trip.xxxx oooo Philippa

Linda Johnson posted a note for Lynn that says: I read your journal with interest as I too had no symptoms except a monitored heart murmer. I had other medical issues, but not the heart! I'm a year post op getting better very day. I had a remarkable surgeon in Northern California and am grateful for the continued care. Meditation helped tremendously both before, during and since the surgery. Let your friends help too! Blessings to you now and when you're recovering in October.

Martin posted a note for Lynn that says: "The bigger your heart - the more difficult is is to break. Lynn you have the biggest heart of anyone I know - and I know it's not going to break"

So know that we're thinking about you all over there - we're planning our trip next year for after you are all fixed up - so see you soon!
Love to you all & missing you too...
Martin,Peh,Naomi &Aleca..XXxx

Jim Jones posted a note for Lynn that says: Lynn
I enjoyed reading your journal. I will be right behind you with a Nov. surgery. I am impressed you run 4 miles a day. I am a fellow runner. Real pleased to see your cath went smoothly with fine results. Congratulations!
All the best

Jules Baillie posted a note for Lynn that says: Hold on tight Lynn.
I know what it means to have the love and support and understanding of the special souls in our wonderful lives.
I love you
Jules xxx

Gail posted a note for Lynn that says: Thinking of you and knowing you're in great hands! xoxox

Rebecca S. posted a note for Lynn that says: Lynn, I see you are from our favorite city. We love San Francisco. My husband lived there for 16 years. We enjoy going there to escape the Texas heat.
It's great you are using this site and sharing with all your friends and family. The support is awesome. I could not get through this week without mine. And the people on this site are amazing! I think I have made some new friends.
Hang in there! Three months ago I didn't know I had a problem. Now it's going to get fixed. Prayers coming your way.
.

Cindy W posted a note for Lynn that says: Hi Lynn. I can relate about the fear of being damaged goods after the surgery. Even though the doctors assure me that I'll have energy that I never knew I was missing, I'm scared that I'll be worse. Four weeks ago I hiked to the top of Diamond Head Crater in Oahu and yet my heart is supposed to be broken. My husband wanted to call my cardiologist right there and then and confirm that I need to do this.
Thanks for the advice about bringing people in. Good stuff. I wish you all the very best as you wait and prepare. And it will be great to read about how great you feel this time next year.

Joe posted a note for Lynn that says: Hello Lynn,
Do not fear the surgery nor the recovery. All that is required is respect for both. Like you I am in great shape. I have never been in a hospital since birth and am not on any medication of any kind. So on 7/3 when I was diagnosed with severe Aortic Stenosis my wife and I were in shock. I can tell you this about the tests, they can be conflicting and confusing. My echo revealed severe. My catheterization reveled moderate. My surgeon Dr Davis Adams (and I strongly recommend him and Mt Sinai Hospital) clearly stated I needed to have the valve replaced ASAP. So on 8/2 I did. Dr Adams found the valve to be so calcified he will be using my case to lecture other surgeons at an October conference in Chicago. Had I waited there is a good chance one exertion could have been fatal for me.
Now it is almost one month out and I am walking 4 or 5 times a day 15 to 25 minutes at a time. I easily get up and out of chairs and beds etc. No lifting for a few months just to let the sternum heal but after that I will be running and biking again to my hearts content.
I looked at it as an opportunity to fix the one medical problem I had so I would be able to live the active life style I love.
And on October 6th my wife and I are flying to SF for a vacation in Carmel and Tahoe.
The point is cardiologists might debate the need of the surgery based on Echo's, Cath's and Tee tests. But in my case waiting could have been fatal. Now I am a short time away form Life again.

Mary O\' Reilly posted a note for Lynn that says: Dear Lynn,
It is so natural to be scared and worried about your life post-op. Of all the many people I know around the world, you are tops for a great mix of good humor, positive attitude, determination, strength of character, resourcefulness and a huge love of life. Add to this mix your physical fitness, your nursing background, and a well qualified surgeon, and you become a fantastic candidate for a successful recovery. Coat all of the above with the love and support of your wonderful family and your many friends and you are seriously set up to do well. We love you!

Renee Radocaj posted a note for Lynn that says: Wow - you said everything I felt after hearing my news on 7/15. I did have symptoms but was told it was anxiety. I can really appreciate where you are coming from. You have a beautiful way of writing your emotions that is very touching. I'll be thinking of you. Take care and stay strong.

Linda Johnson posted a note for Lynn that says: I appreciate the unreality of your situation, having no symptoms. It is truly surreal. You are doing the right thing and I have you in my thoughts.
Linda Johnson

Carolina Klockow posted a note for Lynn that says: Lynn, my dear friend,

you have created a very honest and emotional journal- I will stay posted! sending you love and good vibrations from far away!
Carolina

philippa.morrison55@live.com posted a note for Lynn that says: Dearest Lynn,

I am here with Stacy and Glenys and all the rest of your Expat family---cheering you on--wishing you well.

You know full well it's that spell in the dentist's waiting room that always seems to be worse than actually getting the tooth out don't you?

Enjoy your trip to Europe.
It will be a fabulous way to put you into the right space to tackle this op.

You can do this.
You are a wonderful, courageous woman.

Thank God for modern technology in more ways than one. Firstly, this surgery is now available to you where years ago it wasn't. Secondly,we can all keep in touch and cheer you along the way.

Take care my friend and hugs to ALL the family

Love as always

Philippa xxoo

Glenys Claverie posted a note for Lynn that says: Hi there,
What an amazing way to go through this journey - the power of technology works it's positive magic in allowing you to be connected with friends far and wide who can then help to support you.
I admire your honesty in writing - so much harder to put our thoughts into words for others to read.
Ultimately, you are doing all you can and are well prepared. Have a blast in France and Venice. Sending lots of positive thoughts and love.
Glenys xx

Stacy Rushton posted a note for Lynn that says: Dear Lynn,

You've got this! Anyone who can handle transcontinental moves and the rest of your life's circumstances with the stamina and aplomb that you have, can do this, and do it with grace and courage. Please know that your worldwide expat family is also behind you, cheering you on, praying for you and sending you warm thoughts of healing and support.

Much love,

Stacy

Ernie B.S. posted a note for Lynn that says: You're young and you're a runner, so you're going to bounce back quickly. You've been through child-birth, so you've been through more pain than you're probably going feel this time (thank God fro pain meds!). And you get to go to Europe before your operation! Hell, I wish I was you!

Adam Pick posted a note for Lynn that says: Hey Lynn,

Like you, I was mostly asymptomatic with aortic stenosis.

Like you, I took a vacation before the procedure. Enjoy France and Italy.

You are going to do great once you get back.

By the way, who is your surgeon?

Keep on tickin!

Ernie posted a note for Lynn that says: Hi Lynn,

I'm waiting in line with you for my aortic valve operation. I ran into a neighbor last night and she had her operation a year ago. She said she's amazed how much better she feels now compared to before the surgery. She told me not worry, everything was going to turn out great. Keep smiling. Know that you are loved by your family and friends, and we're going to be fine. :)

gabrielle Stinson posted a note for Lynn that says: Hi Lynn, I feel for you which is good for me because I have been a bit self obsessed since I received the news I was a candidate for MVR. I have been very fatigued these last few months and just want to get my life back. I don't know if I am depressed because I have no energy or the other way around. The chicken and egg thing what comes first? Dunno! I love it that I can share here on line as I keep my low moods to myself. Actually I have not told many people I am having surgery I prefer to wait until I have a definite date. It will be a relief not to keep up this pretence that I am not suffering. Good luck dear Lynn and as Adam says 'keep tickin' G x

Michele posted a note for Lynn that says: Hi Lynn,

You should be celebrating. My complete surgery I feel I rushed into seems like your taking your time. Like you I went in for a physical in 2010 & that was it! I struggle with how fast life has taken me, but God has said he knows are future! You have some traveling & me still to this day & future surgery's for me?

Jg posted a note for Lynn that says: The wait is the hardest part for you and your family
Keep your spirits high!