JOe Ruthberg posted a note for Meredith that says:
Nice to see you today. Nobody came out so I left with my bus full of vomit. I hosed it out at the compound. YUK!!!!!!!!
Jen posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Sammy/Mere! I hope to send you some positive thoughts every chance I can. Know that I love and miss you dear friend and I will be thinking of you. ❤️ Pep
"When life gives you puddles, Jump in them" whoo hoo here we go Hang in there!
MaryLou Kowalczyk posted a note for Meredith that says:
Thinking of you and will keep you in my prayers. Please let me know if you need anything we're always here to help if needed.
Aunt MaryLou
Meredith Bray Thanks Aunt MaryLou! David could use some prayers too. He's been my rock through this.
On February 15, 2014...
Yvette posted a note for Meredith that says:
Mine went from a 2.4 in 2012, to a 0.06 now...
Yvette posted a note for Meredith that says:
Okay, I just read your story...makes me realize maybe I should edit mine. (lol)
Have you been monitored all this time and gone to severe that quickly? Mine has been "severe" for a few years now. Changing Cardio Docs is how my surgery got moved up so fast. My last doc seemed to think it wasn't that much to worry about...this new guy says that was CRAZY.
Meredith Bray My previous cardio didn't seem concerned ebcause I wasn't having any symptoms, or so I thought. Last ... Read more
Meredith Bray My previous cardio didn't seem concerned ebcause I wasn't having any symptoms, or so I thought. Last years echo showed a 1.1 AVA, 6 months ago it showed .85, and this years showed .75. So yeah, mine did change a lot in a year. Hindsight shows a LOT of symptoms though, now that I know what they are and how they feel. I wouldn't have had the surgery any earlier, but maybe would have been n a 6-month echo schedule earlier than I was. Either way, it's gonna get better! SOON!!
On February 15, 2014...
Jill posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hang in there kiddo! Between God and your wonderful husband, you are going to do just great. If I can do anything to help just let me know.
Meredith Bray I knew you were nice, deep down inside. I won't tell anyone if you won't. Thank you, Jill-The-Biotc ... Read more
Meredith Bray I knew you were nice, deep down inside. I won't tell anyone if you won't. Thank you, Jill-The-Biotch!
On February 14, 2014...
Zoe posted a note for Meredith that says:
This all sounds so positive. I have seen so many pre op pts and the the post op and they are so please to have finally had the surgery and feel better than they can remember. Good luck and think of the good years this will bring for you.
Meredith Bray Everybody that i talk to that's already had it done says, "You'll feel so much better!" and I'm all, ... Read more
Meredith Bray Everybody that i talk to that's already had it done says, "You'll feel so much better!" and I'm all, "But..I....don't feel *bad* now, ...or do I?" Anyhow, I'm looking forward to all the good years ahead! XOXO -Sammy
On February 14, 2014...
Kathleen posted a note for Meredith that says:
Strength and courage are what come to mind when i read your journal, and I'm not surprised.
Yvonne Rappoli posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hey Meredith I didn't realize how far your condition was. I'm sorry that you are going through so much. YOU have always been real tough and a fighter. Between you and God everything will turn out well. If you or Dave need anything you both have my number! I promise I won't drop it in the porta potty!
Good Luck friend
Yvonne
Meredith Bray No fair hitting on David while I can't defend him! Also, check your facebook messages.
On February 14, 2014...
MB posted a note for Meredith that says:
Thinking of you and sending positive thoughts, energy and prayers during this time...
Your camp family is with you...
Meredith Bray Sometimes singing campsongs in my head is the only way to stave off the panic.
On February 14, 2014...
Yvette posted a note for Meredith that says:
Sounds like loads of fun!! I go the 27th for all my pre-op stuff.
Meredith Bray I wish I could have done it all in one. One-A-Day is eating up a lot of sick time that I could use l ... Read more
Meredith Bray I wish I could have done it all in one. One-A-Day is eating up a lot of sick time that I could use later. I had really great techs & RNs so far, hope you do as well.
On February 14, 2014...
Auntie C posted a note for Meredith that says:
Another step done!
Happy Valentines Day Mere.
Meredith Bray Almost there! Mom is here this weekend helping me fill the freezer, and figure out some small detail ... Read more
Meredith Bray Almost there! Mom is here this weekend helping me fill the freezer, and figure out some small details. Love you!
On February 14, 2014...
Jennifer Emberg posted a note for Meredith that says:
Happy Valentine's Day Mere. <3 U!!
Barbara Colvin posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith -
I am so happy to hear that God found a lift/recline chair for you too. Having mine has been such a blessing - especially after experiencing getting in and out of bed in the hospital. The chair is so much easier. I hope that your surgery and hospital course go as smoothly as mine did. My computer time is up...
Blessings,
Meredith Bray Thanks Barbara! It's one less item of my ever-changing checklist. Your smooth course is so encourag ... Read more
Meredith Bray Thanks Barbara! It's one less item of my ever-changing checklist. Your smooth course is so encouraging for me!
On February 13, 2014...
Yvette posted a note for Meredith that says:
I stopped in to wish you the best of care and prayers heading your way
Meredith Bray Thanks! I have my PFT & ABG today. A nurse told me the ABG hurts. A lot. I'll let you know!
On February 13, 2014...
Marcia Hawthorn posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hello there! I want you to know that I will be praying for you during this time of medical trial!!!
Meredith Bray Thank you! I heard you are an excellent pray-er, so this means a lot to me!
On February 13, 2014...
Sherry Stevens posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith, from reading your blog I can tell you have an amazing family. I am exactly 6 months post AVR and you will be surprised how quickly you have your new "heart working right" life back. It also sounds like you are doing your research; for me, knowing what to expect makes all the difference. I had no surprises that way and was confident to take all the steps to recovery. We made our decisions so I was amazingly calm going into surgery knowing that it was now in God's hands with a great surgeon. For what it's worth, I chose an Edwards bovine valve and though surgery may again be in the future for the next many years I have a normal life with no anticoagulants to deal with. No kidding, the first few weeks are hard work, but keep looking forward and smile because every day you are closer to being healed. All of a sudden it will be behind you and your life is back.
Sorry this is so long but I get passionate about encouraging others that while this can be scary the future with healing is just in front of you. Let me know any time you would like to talk or have questions. You are now on my prayer list; The Lord and I will be keeping an eye on you ;-D
Meredith Bray Thank you Sherry! Your words mean so much, I really appreciate your input!
On February 12, 2014...
Valerie Bush posted a note for Meredith that says:
Meredith,
God has put you in my life because my grandson was born with a bicuspid aortic valve that will need replacement as an adult. His mom & dad are eager to hear about your surgery & recovery so that they can help him.....our Lord & Saviour is in control of all of this- for you, for us and for little Alexander! God Bless You!
Meredith Bray Val, please feel free to pass along this link to Alexander's mom & dad! I was born with one also, bu ... Read more
Meredith Bray Val, please feel free to pass along this link to Alexander's mom & dad! I was born with one also, but didn't know about it until 2003. Isn't technology amazing?!
On February 12, 2014...
Kathy DELong posted a note for Meredith that says:
The cardiac cath itself is not a bad procedure - just had the left-right one in December (I have pulmonary venous hypertension - the left side of my heart is lazy!). The toughest part is lying still flat on your back for the 6-8 hours afterward and having your choice of a bedpan or catheter while recumbent. But you can watch TV and catch up on sleep. The most annoying thing about the whole procedure was the blood pressure cuff inflating every 5 minutes. Things are going well - very glad that you're updating us as things go along. And your sense of humor is soooo important, and appreciated. Whistling a happy tune is also a good thing (see The King and I). Love ya, #1 niece!
Meredith Bray I had one a year ago. it wasn't awful, but it wasn't a walk in the park either. I'm expecting this ... Read more
Meredith Bray I had one a year ago. it wasn't awful, but it wasn't a walk in the park either. I'm expecting this one to be longer, but easier because I know what to expect, and what to do (pee!) I'll have my glasses on though, and they are an old prescription (getting new ones next weekend). I have difficulties functioning normally while wearing glasses. Thanks for the thumbs up! (Most nieces get their awesomeness from their aunts!)
On February 11, 2014...
Sherry M posted a note for Meredith that says:
Let's see, March 5 surgery, reunion in June - YOU BET YOU'LL BE THERE!
And until then your job is to just keep trusting, and thinking positive thoughts. Remember, you are what you believe. If you believe you will have a successful surgery and a super recovery, YOU WILL.
On February 10, 2014...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Meredith that says:
I second what Sherry just said! I will continue to keep you in my prayers before, during and after surgery! As I can vouch.... It is great to be on the other side of surgery!
Meredith Bray I'm keeping my eye on the prize! And thanks for the prayers!
On February 10, 2014...
Sherry Musgrove posted a note for Meredith that says:
Meredith
There are no coincidences. That chair was meant for you. It is just the beginning to everything coming to you when you need it. Before long your surgery will be over and you will be well on your way to a speedy recovery.
You will remain in our thoughts.
Meredith Bray You & Tom are an inspiration for me, proof that I WILL go to the family reunion in June! Keep your c ... Read more
Meredith Bray You & Tom are an inspiration for me, proof that I WILL go to the family reunion in June! Keep your chin up, Y'all are in my prayers!
On February 10, 2014...
Lynne posted a note for Meredith that says:
Meredith---God is in control. That is why you couldn't find that doctors name! You didn't need it!!!! Exciting that the date is set and you can get this behind you. Prayers will continue for your healing and for the surgeon and all those that will be your care givers. Just remember---take the time to heal. You will be ringing those chimes!!
Meredith Bray He *is* in control, and it's getting easier every day to realize that in my life. I can't wait to be ... Read more
Meredith Bray He *is* in control, and it's getting easier every day to realize that in my life. I can't wait to be a regular ding-a-ling!
On February 10, 2014...
Uncle Skippy! posted a note for Meredith that says:
The power of prayer. God has a plan for you.
On February 10, 2014...
Kathy/Greg Sprissler posted a note for Meredith that says:
Greg sez: Run this by your docs: use whatever valve needs little or no anticoagulants post-op...aspirin a day...he sez anesthesia is "go to sleep & wake up"...he can get hugely detailed but he feels you're in great hands...his prayers are with you & he lights candles in Mass every Sunday for everyone he knows...those are Catholic prayers the candles...just a little humor there...
DO stock up on DVD's you want to watch...I just had surgery & that's what I did for a week...
Meredith Bray I appreciate the candles....and the advice! We are renewing the Netflix subscription, and David got ... Read more
Meredith Bray I appreciate the candles....and the advice! We are renewing the Netflix subscription, and David got me a tablet for Christmas. I'll offer up some non-Catholic prayers for your recovery, if you don't mind. :)
On February 10, 2014...
Lynn without an E posted a note for Meredith that says:
Boo, Found ya! So now I can officially watch ya. Already asked for prayers in church for your medical team to have less stress in their lives so that you can come out ready for rehab. Awesome how you are finding this issue before it takes you from us unknowingly.
Meredith Bray Hi Carrie! Thanks for the prayer request, they're working already!
On February 10, 2014...
Cynthia Cooper posted a note for Meredith that says:
Mere, so glad to hear you have a date so soon, as well as getting to keep your surgeon. Also happy you have this journal and you have met others through it that have been, or will be, going through the same thing. I'm sure their positive experiences help relieve some of your anxiety.
Kathy/Greg Sprissler posted a note for Meredith that says:
Prayers on wings for you, Meredith...will message you as soon as Greg gets home...he does the anesthesia for hearts all the time...will send his thoughts...hugs...
Meredith Bray Thank you! I haven't met any of the team other than the surgeons so far. I'm looking forward to get ... Read more
Meredith Bray Thank you! I haven't met any of the team other than the surgeons so far. I'm looking forward to getting this DONE!
On February 8, 2014...
Love, Jan and Dad posted a note for Meredith that says:
The Troops will all be "On Queue". The rest is up to you!
On February 8, 2014...
Clare posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi. Glad you have a date. I am 45. I had my bicuspid valve replaced 4 weeks ago. Let me know if you have specific questions for me. autenclare@gmail.com.
Good luck with everything.
Peter T. Epes posted a note for Meredith that says:
Mere ~
I'm glad that your surgery date is set!
The research you've done, and the fact that you've made public your journey for all of us to share with you, will help ease those expected natural anxieties. I'm so proud of you -- like I've said before in our emails, I'm encouraged by your faith and strength.
You are saturated in prayer now, through the surgery, and beyond!
Cami Munk posted a note for Meredith that says:
Good Luck Meredith! My name is Cami and we sound similar in our age, lifestyle and diagnosis.
I have bicuspid valve as well and my surgery is on March 3. I am having my heart cath on Valentine's Day (ironic) and am a little worried about what they may find in there.
I have gone through the denial phase, just wishing that this could all go away with medication, however, I'm fully grounded in reality now! I guess these are the experiences that make us stronger, right?
I will follow you and see how you are doing. Best of luck,
Cami
Mom posted a note for Meredith that says:
Such good news about getting the consultation moved up. Maybe now you can enjoy Valentines Day!
On February 6, 2014...
Jen Gazda posted a note for Meredith that says:
Mere/Sammy
Keep your head up and keep smiling!
Your in thought and prayer
Love ya, Jen/Pep
Meredith Bray Peppy! Thank you! I'll also listen carefully to any advice you want to throw at me!
On February 6, 2014...
Toni Randall posted a note for Meredith that says:
Meredith - My friend that went through it suggests that you have a recliner to sleep in for the first few weeks. If you don't have one, I'll buy one for you! Love, Mom
Meredith Bray We have 2 old LazyBoys, similar to Gramp's chair. They are ok for short naps, but not for sleeping o ... Read more
Meredith Bray We have 2 old LazyBoys, similar to Gramp's chair. They are ok for short naps, but not for sleeping overnight. As soon as I have a date set, I am going to research renting an electric recliner for at least a month. Thanks for the offer!
On February 5, 2014...
Uncle Skip posted a note for Meredith that says:
The power of prayer. We prayed for you on Sunday.
Now for the next step. I'll be praying for you.
Meredith Bray Many many thanks! I have a surgical consult tomorrow afternoon, and am hoping to set a date.
On February 1, 2014...
Chas & Kristy Swearingen posted a note for Meredith that says:
Mere!
Just heard about this via my father. Really neat idea having this journal. I signed up for updates.
Of course our thoughts and prayers are with you.
It's a big undertaking and pretty scary but I can certainly understand why you're "excited" about it. It's the prospect of finally "fixing" something that has been a pain for a long time.
I have the high cholesterol issue also and can only control it with medication. When I was eating nearly perfectly and at 10% body fat last year my cholesterol was about 25 points lower than when I wasn't. However, the meds lowered it over 100 points, so there's no way I could have controlled it myself. I suspect the same for you.
If you want help and support in getting back on the health track post-surgery, let me know. I plan on doing so myself and have a few tools I can suggest.
Good luck with all this. Love you!
On January 31, 2014...
Theresa Hammond posted a note for Meredith that says:
I wish you all the best Meredith...I am a Friend of Pete's and I have you on our prayer chain at St. Margaret of York Church in Loveland Ohio...Please know we are Prayer Warriors and have a direct line to Jesus...prayin for you Sister...♥
Meredith Bray Thank you Theresa & St Margaret of York!
On January 30, 2014...
Dan Sinclair posted a note for Meredith that says:
Hi Meredith,
I read your journal after you signed into mine. Again if you have any questions after reading my journal have at it. There are so many questions that we all have. You will find all kinds of opinions some good, some hmmmmm, but we all have been helped by the people on this site and I will be glad to share my experience with you. I would also recommend that you read some of the journals that helped me alot. People that were just ahead of me. Look up Aubrey Jones, Jim Jones, Ernie Keen. I think you will love reading them. Have a great night!
Meredith Bray Thanks Dan! I've really enjoyed reading yours and others. With each journal I read, I gain a bit mo ... Read more
Meredith Bray Thanks Dan! I've really enjoyed reading yours and others. With each journal I read, I gain a bit more calm!
On January 30, 2014...
Clare posted a note for Meredith that says:
I am 45 years old and had my aortic valve replaced on 1/9/2014. I am near St. Louis and 3 weeks post surgery. I sleep in my bed or regular recliner. My husband stayed home a day or two with me. Most days my four year old and I manage by ourselves. She does let me nap in the recliner during Sesame Street. Good luck with your decisions. Let me know if you have questions. Autenclare@gmail.com
Meredith Bray With a 4-year old! I'm worried about managing my 46 yr old husband! :) Thanks for your comment, it ... Read more
Meredith Bray With a 4-year old! I'm worried about managing my 46 yr old husband! :) Thanks for your comment, it helps me feel more optimistic!
On January 29, 2014...
Uncle Skip posted a note for Meredith that says:
I will be praying for you. Yes our family have been prone to heart problems, but I have had no problems for 18 years after my bypass. Drop me a message when you get time. Love always
On January 29, 2014...
Kathy DeLong posted a note for Meredith that says:
Mere, glad you're doing this blog and looking forward to the updates.
I had a friend who had aortic valve replacement with a mechanical valve at the age of 56 - it was still going strong when he died of Alzheimer's at 87, and that was back in the 80s.
Yes, he was on Coumadin all his life, as I am, but the drug companies are continually researching and developing blood thinners that won't require as much monitoring in the future.
The positive outlook you have will help see you through, and we'll all be pulling for you.
Would you like me to reach out to my friends at Cordis, the J&J company that makes cardiac stents, etc., for some surgeon referrals?
XOXO
Kat
Meredith Bray The cardiologist seems to be leaning more toward a bio-valve because of the complications his patient ... Read more
Meredith Bray The cardiologist seems to be leaning more toward a bio-valve because of the complications his patients have seen from additional non-heart-related surgeries. I've got a pretty limited choice of surgeons through Humana HMO. I also have a good relationship with the front office staff at my preferred surgeon's office. They helped me choose my cardiologist and my PCP, so I'll bet they (along with the Dr) can give some really good guidance toward choosing a new surgeon. Ultimately, the referral and authorization must come from my PCP in order for Humana to cover it. I still have the email you sent last year about Prevena, and will ask about it when I meet the surgeon. <3 you!
On January 29, 2014...
Jan and Dad posted a note for Meredith that says:
Everyone you know—and then some—will be there for you, Meredith. Your network of family and friends is a loving, generous and constant structure and we just know we'll all get through this. There's so much more to discover about your future and we certainly don't want to miss any of it.
On January 29, 2014...
Toni Randall posted a note for Meredith that says:
Your mommy will be there for you! I am praying that you will have the surgeon you really want and we'll get through this as a team. Love, kisses and hugs!
On January 29, 2014...
Susan Smith posted a note for Meredith that says:
Meredith, you have some Important decisions to make and I am sure you will make the best decision for you. The insurance issue is one many of us will face. Do keep us posted. Praying for you as you go forward.
On January 28, 2014...
Jeff posted a note for Meredith that says:
Thanks for including us in your journal. You're in our thoughts and prayers.
Meredith Bray Thank you, I'll take all I can get! Love you!
On January 28, 2014...
Your sister <3 Jen posted a note for Meredith that says:
Mere - I'm so glad I'm able to be updated with what is going on. Thank you for creating this page!
Wish I was closer so that I could help more. I will help as much as I can but know that even though I'm not very close I'm here whenever you need me ;)
Meredith Bray I'll always need you - you're my sister!
On January 28, 2014...
Douglas posted a note for Meredith that says:
Uncle Doug is rooting for you. We'll be watching for reports. God bless, keep your chin up, and go with the flow. Good luck .
Meredith Bray Phew! I wasn't sure I still had a good address for you!
On January 28, 2014...
Jackie posted a note for Meredith that says:
When I found out I might need surgery I told the doctor, let's just do it, why wait! for what. Glad I did, feel so much better.
Meredith Bray Thanks, Jackie! I feel that way also, and it's SCARY!