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.
Lynn Ennis Thanks Aubrey. I don't take any meds for anything...my doc said I would be on blood thinners and amio ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thanks Aubrey. I don't take any meds for anything...my doc said I would be on blood thinners and amiodarone for 12 weeks. Amiodarone is a nasty drug...but necessary during the remodeling. The blockers may or may not be permanent for me..we'll see. It is sort of assembly line surgery these days..one size fits all with a bit of tweaking. I have learned an enormous amount from you and the others who have recently had surgery: walk, take the pain meds, call the doctor if needed, get a recliner, expect bumps in progress, walk more, control the diet, sleep and be patient!! All the best to you!
On September 29, 2013...
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.
Lynn Ennis Thank you Aubrey, I welcome your comments. I am slowly adopting a more practical and less emotional a ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you Aubrey, I welcome your comments. I am slowly adopting a more practical and less emotional attitude..I know the beginning of recovery is bumpy but it sounds like you feel somewhat normal at 4 weeks. Are you still on lots of meds? My surgeon told me I would be on several for 3 months then we would evaluate. Perhaps beta blockers for life..depends on how the heart "remodels". I love that expression! He also said he would do a minimally invasive incision since it's just the valve so I am glad to get a 3-4 inch scar. I dreaded the thought of being reminded every morning after a shower by a long scar but I think I can deal with a shorter one...The scar is more of an issue for us ladies.
Your journal has really helped put me at ease, I believe you when you say it's a doable experience, so thank you for that!
On September 29, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Thanks Cheryl, please come up for some slow walks! It's so beautiful with the season changing..I coul ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thanks Cheryl, please come up for some slow walks! It's so beautiful with the season changing..I could not be in a more beautiful place to recover :)
On September 28, 2013...
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.
Lynn Ennis So awesome!! We will be neck and neck so to speak! You will do great too Jim! BWH is the best and wil ... Read more
Lynn Ennis So awesome!! We will be neck and neck so to speak! You will do great too Jim! BWH is the best and will do the best for you! You know I will be following you closely!
On September 28, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Thank you Elsa..It's been lovely spending time with you and Philippa these past few years. Are you co ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you Elsa..It's been lovely spending time with you and Philippa these past few years. Are you coming out for Charlottes next show? We will try to be there! Even though SA did the first heart transplant ( which Steve keeps reminding me!) I am very fortunate to find myself in the USA for this.I will do as well as anyone and get back to normal. Maybe I can get some recovery time in Cape Town later on..that would be nice! Let us know when you are next in town and please keep following me!
On September 28, 2013...
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.
Lynn Ennis Thank you Higgy. I hope I will be fine.It is indeed very difficult. Lots of love to you and your fami ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you Higgy. I hope I will be fine.It is indeed very difficult. Lots of love to you and your family..I hope you can protect your chest from your two little cruise missiles!
On September 28, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Thank you Glenys...I am gathering my strength for the big to-do!
On September 27, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Thank you Gabi, I feel myself closing down a bit...talking only to my husband...last bit of preparati ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you Gabi, I feel myself closing down a bit...talking only to my husband...last bit of preparations now. I am ready as I ever will be. I love your journal and positive spirit.
On September 27, 2013...
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 :)
Lynn Ennis Thanks Jim :) You and Bob and Moon and Bill are great comforts. I will email you now...or try to get ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thanks Jim :) You and Bob and Moon and Bill are great comforts. I will email you now...or try to get you on the phone.
On September 27, 2013...
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.
Lynn Ennis Thank you so much Shannon. When we talk about our KL time, we call it "our golden years" and it reall ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you so much Shannon. When we talk about our KL time, we call it "our golden years" and it really was...kids were little...no real problems..life was so blissful! Please keep me in your meditations around the KDE!
On September 27, 2013...
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.
Lynn Ennis Thanks Ernie...you have been a great comfort...laughing at this drama is the best...I hope you will b ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thanks Ernie...you have been a great comfort...laughing at this drama is the best...I hope you will be out of the woods soon..first 2 weeks are a doozy it seems! I know you will support me when I start whinging..
On September 27, 2013...
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-////
Lynn Ennis I am so bummed you live in NY Laurie! I know I would never get pneumonia with you around..all I have ... Read more
Lynn Ennis I am so bummed you live in NY Laurie! I know I would never get pneumonia with you around..all I have to do is look you in the eye and we would start laughing!
On September 27, 2013...
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.
Lynn Ennis Thanks Stacy...keep me in your prayers...I think you have a direct line...I have a cooking project in ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thanks Stacy...keep me in your prayers...I think you have a direct line...I have a cooking project in mind i want to do while i am house bound..want to talk to you about it.
On September 23, 2013...
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
What a surprise! Thanks for reaching out.
I hope it all will go well...I will be the worst patient ever; you know from experience what awful patients nurses make!...but I have high hopes for a full recovery.
On September 23, 2013...
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.
Lynn Ennis Thank you Helen, I hope that will be true for me.
On September 22, 2013...
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.
Lynn Ennis Ernie, you are the man! Thank you for those specific tips- I added them to my notes. I watch you with ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Ernie, you are the man! Thank you for those specific tips- I added them to my notes. I watch you with amazement!
On September 21, 2013...
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!
Europe was beautiful..We have been to Paris many times..the most beautiful city I know...Venice was new to me..so Byzantine and rich in imagery...Now I am fully home and getting ready to deal. The seasons seemed to have changed while I was away. Altho softer than the East Coast, California has a
real Autumn, a peaceful time. I will get my OR date tomorrow. Very happy to start the real process...this dark anticipation has been full of sorrow.
On September 10, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Hi Julie,
Please plan on lots of visits to Marin this fall! Steve and i just returned from france and ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Hi Julie,
Please plan on lots of visits to Marin this fall! Steve and i just returned from france and italy- my train is about to leave the station...
On September 1, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Hi Gabi! Thank you for such sweet words! I have been following you and am happy to see you do so well ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Hi Gabi! Thank you for such sweet words! I have been following you and am happy to see you do so well! It's the only thing that calms me down- reading the stories here about people as they move thru this unique experience.I loved that movie and that saying as well...I will be so happy to finally get on the other side....I will do the best I can.thanks and stay well!
On August 31, 2013...
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
On August 30, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Hi Philippa! I wish we could hop over to London as well...would SO LOVE to see you!!!we are on a time ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Hi Philippa! I wish we could hop over to London as well...would SO LOVE to see you!!!we are on a time squeeze...have to get Chloe back to Uni with furniture 2 days after our return..and then Steve is off again. The cath was so easy...you know, this is the stuff of life...things happen...its just living...I am so grateful to be here now...I think I will learn from this, somehow it will give something to me, not take away. Then I should live to a ripe old age with a great heart! How can I complain?
On August 29, 2013...
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.
Lynn Ennis Spirit Rock has taught me so much. Meditation has been one of the pluses of this experience. Thank yo ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Spirit Rock has taught me so much. Meditation has been one of the pluses of this experience. Thank you.
On August 29, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis It would be so fun to see you all here! When I miss Malaysia, I miss you guys. I feel well and protec ... Read more
Lynn Ennis It would be so fun to see you all here! When I miss Malaysia, I miss you guys. I feel well and protected with all the love, thanks Martin!
On August 29, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis I love you too Jules...we have sure had our moments!
On August 28, 2013...
Gail posted a note for Lynn that says:
Thinking of you and knowing you're in great hands! xoxox
Lynn Ennis Hey Gail! I am in the best place for this drama for sure....! I'll email you tomorrow. Hugs.
On August 26, 2013...
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.
Lynn Ennis Thank you Joe. You make it sound actually do-able. My numbers have moved around- for the worse- I sup ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you Joe. You make it sound actually do-able. My numbers have moved around- for the worse- I suppose the cath is most telling.
It's all been talk for me thus far- but now there are sharp things with my name on them - it's getting real.
You had 4 weeks to prepare and now, 4 weeks post op you are planning an awesome holiday- thats inspiring! I am going to take a page out of your book:)
I am lucky to be in SF to have this amazing life saving operation done. I am, with difficulty, accepting that I am critically "ill" and would die soon without it. Now I just want it to be over.
Congratulations on your remarkable recovery and best wishes! You will love the beauty of Carmel/Tahoe too! Thank you for writing.
On August 26, 2013...
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!
Lynn Ennis Thank you Mary :)!! You really pack a mean paragraph! I so remember our late night chats in Beijing- ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you Mary :)!! You really pack a mean paragraph! I so remember our late night chats in Beijing- about all of life, our wonky relatives, our joy. You and Breen have remained close to us over these years and I hope we see you next summer. Thank you for holding my hand now..
On August 25, 2013...
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.
Lynn Ennis Thank you Renee- is this not the strangest trip ever?? Sometimes I wonder- maybe I do have symptoms b ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you Renee- is this not the strangest trip ever?? Sometimes I wonder- maybe I do have symptoms but have just adapted- that would be nice to feel better after the op- tho that seems a very long way away..this website has shown over and over that normal people like us can actually do this. Good luck!
On August 25, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Thank you Linda. Life turns on a dime- Hi tech med can fix this mechanical problem of mine. So gratef ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you Linda. Life turns on a dime- Hi tech med can fix this mechanical problem of mine. So grateful.
On August 25, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Hey Caro, you are never far away! I will email you after the cath on thursday. Tick tock tick tock- j ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Hey Caro, you are never far away! I will email you after the cath on thursday. Tick tock tick tock- just want it to be over now. I am thrilled to have a beautiful change of scenery soon..I will forget about it for a while :)
On August 25, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Thanks P! Waiting does indeed suck...
BUT it has also allowed me to study meditation and work with an ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thanks P! Waiting does indeed suck...
BUT it has also allowed me to study meditation and work with an amazing body worker who practices the feldenkrais method...I want to be able to work with the surgeon...to open my ribs and not cover and protect.
We nurses are the worst patients...my cardiologist was in nappies when I was working, lol...he makes me feel like Flo Nightingale. He tells me the whole procedure has really improved since I saw it last in an OR in the 80's...thank goodness for that. Keep in touch, I love your notes!
On August 25, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Thank you Glenys- yes, it's wonderful to keep connected. This website has been a godsend to me...I ha ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you Glenys- yes, it's wonderful to keep connected. This website has been a godsend to me...I have spent hours on the net researching but these anecdotal stories are the ones that have given me the most courage. Has Morgan finally returned? Chloe came back home last week for a few weeks and we were chatting about her!
On August 24, 2013...
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
Lynn Ennis Thank you Stacy- I love your confidence! Maybe it will rub off on me! I really need all your support ... Read more
Lynn Ennis Thank you Stacy- I love your confidence! Maybe it will rub off on me! I really need all your support and kind words, thank you.
On August 22, 2013...
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!
On August 22, 2013...
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!
Lynn Ennis My surgeon will be Dr Vicken Melikian. I hope you have heard of him!
On July 14, 2013...
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. :)
On July 3, 2013...
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
On June 28, 2013...
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?
On June 21, 2013...
Jg posted a note for Lynn that says:
The wait is the hardest part for you and your family
Keep your spirits high!
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.