On March 21, 2019...

Rob Sparling posted a note for Mike that says:

Mike, the seatbelt cushion is on it’s way! UPS says it will be there on Monday and the tracking number is in your email inbox. Enjoy your vacation!

leslie terjesen Mike, you are supposed to be on vacation!!!! Enjoy your time away and the warm weather!!!!!

Mike Roskowinski Awesome thanks Rob. My mom is staying at my house so she will be there to get it for me. Thanks again ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Awesome thanks Rob. My mom is staying at my house so she will be there to get it for me. Thanks again for sending it to me. Oh yeah I am on vacation and enjoying it. So far golfed with friends and family. Tonight going to see the impractical jokers show at Hertz Arena. Sunday is the Twins and Yankees game down here. Having a great time

Rob Sparling GOOOOOOD,! Soak up the fun and activities. Get a Fitbit now to record a baseline to compare against ... Read more

Rob Sparling GOOOOOOD,! Soak up the fun and activities. Get a Fitbit now to record a baseline to compare against and see how long it takes to get back to — and then exceed — your level of activity and I bet you will be impressed!

Mike Roskowinski Already have a Fitbit which I have used and abused for the past few years. It will be interesting to ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Already have a Fitbit which I have used and abused for the past few years. It will be interesting to see my progress after the surgery. We took a 2.5 mile walk yesterday through the neighborhood. Since I don’t have a gym membership down here and can’t weightlift I figured we do lots of walking to keep my cardio going. Going to keep doing cardio till the day before surgery hoping it will help me bounce back faster.

On March 21, 2019...

JH Mattingly posted a note for Mike that says:

you're gonna love that recliner! I actually slept in mine for a about a month after my OHS. I'm 7 years post AVR (pig) with ascending aneurysm repair and could not be doing any better. You will too! If you get bored, you can read through my journal. Take care!!!

Mike Roskowinski Thanks I will read it. Funny my mom is at my house and she wants to sleep in the recliner instead of ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Thanks I will read it. Funny my mom is at my house and she wants to sleep in the recliner instead of a bed. I plan to sleep on it for as long as necessary.

On March 21, 2019...

Gordon Conwell posted a note for Mike that says:

Hey Mike, I had aortic valve replacement and aortic aneurysm repaired right after I turned 40...it really wasn't bad, the surgery or the recovery. You're in good shape now and you'll be in better shape after surgery. I hope you have the same experience I did. Stay well!!

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Gordon I am hoping to be on the other side soon but for now need to be happy and enjoy my life ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Gordon I am hoping to be on the other side soon but for now need to be happy and enjoy my life. Especially while on vacation in Florida where it is so beautiful out.

On March 17, 2019...

Chris Purvis posted a note for Mike that says:

Hey Mike-saw your post and I was right there with you on all of it last May. The constant worry, anxiety, mind running 50 different ways. It’s hard, frustrating and flat out tiring until you have the actual surgery. Just know that all will be good and keep the faith!

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Chris. Yeah I know it is a lot emotions and sometimes that waiting period seems so long and mo ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Chris. Yeah I know it is a lot emotions and sometimes that waiting period seems so long and most worrisome. I am heading to Florida for vacation for two weeks and then come back to meet with the Mayo and get stuff planned. I was planning on having some drinks while on vacation and that makes me scared like I am doing something bad to myself. I have not heard about anything saying a few drinks is bad but I am not sure. Otherwise plan to swim lots with the kids and play some golf with friends and family. Hoping I can get back from vacation and get in quickly for surgery and be on the path to recovery. Then maybe I can be over this worrying all the time. Again thanks for the message Chris glad you are doing awesome in your recovery.

Chris Purvis Heck I had drinks before surgery. Live your life man for sure and enjoy the those kiddos.

Mike Roskowinski You are right Chris! I need to just continue living my life. The one thing that I had to change was ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski You are right Chris! I need to just continue living my life. The one thing that I had to change was the weight lifting since that is the most dangerous part but other stuff was not limited. They never said no golf, swimming or a few beers. I got 2 weeks of vacation coming so I should just enjoy it before I come back and hit the ground running on getting my heart fixed. I fly back on 4/2 at midnight and have an appointment at the Mayo @8AM the next day :). So literally from vacation to tests and heart surgery time. I want to get it fixed ASAP so I can still get out and enjoy this summer with my new valve and a lot less worry on my mind.

On March 13, 2019...

David Belisle posted a note for Mike that says:

Hi Mike. You found the right place for all things heart related. I too had a bicuspid valve and an aneurysm on my ascending aorta. I was 55 and living like I was 25. Thank god my family doctor told me my murmur was sounding a little harsh and maybe I should have a cardiologist take a look. They were amazed how I was still functioning with very few symptoms. I too wanted a second opinion. They told me I needed surgery immediately. I know exactly what you mean when you say there was panic and anxiety. I chose to have surgery the next week. I went with a porcine valve because I didn’t want to be on warfarin for the rest of my life. I’m now on my 10th year with that valve. I had an echocardiogram last week and was told it still looks great. I feel great and have no problem doing all the things I’ve always enjoyed doing. Fishing ,hunting , 4 wheeling , hiking, whatever I want. The hardest decision to make is what type of valve you want. I have no regrets on the one I chose. This site will give you the information you need to make that choice. Good luck and live life to the fullest.

Bradley Dunn, Michelle Mitchell, Dan Baltazor reacted to this

Mike Roskowinski Hello David! Thanks for the message. I am not sure if it is so much I want a second opinion or just ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Hello David! Thanks for the message. I am not sure if it is so much I want a second opinion or just a chance to get it done at the Mayo since that hospital is one of the best in the nation. I am happy with the surgeon I have but I have read bad reviews of the hospital. I also figured I would not be getting my surgery till the middle of April with the first surgeon I met with that I should first do my visit to the Mayo since that is 4/3-4/5 and then see how I feel with them. I did not want to commit to one and then really wish I would have gone with the other. Figure I would still be able to get my surgery in the same time frame regardless. Mentally I have planned for surgery next month so now all I need is a specific date. And the Mayo has 4 different surgeons I would be happy with going with. So technically I have 5 options :) As with the valve I think that I am sticking with the On-x mechanical valve since I am 39 and I dont want to have to have another one of these in a few years.

On March 11, 2019...

Willie Radl posted a note for Mike that says:

Hey Mike, I'm nearby in Lakeville. I thought I'd reach out because I had the same surgery last April at Mayo, I had a great experience, had a minor setback last summer but otherwise I have been recovering well. I ended up going with Dr. Cecik because he would do the mini sternotomy for me.... some of the surgeons there are willing to perform surgeries others aren't so if you have a specific procedure in mind be sure to talk with the scheduling coordinator so you meet with a surgeon that performs your desired procedure. If you have any questions please feel free to ask or check out my journal.

Mike Roskowinski Hey Willie awesome to see that I have someone right nearby that had this done. Any information that ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Hey Willie awesome to see that I have someone right nearby that had this done. Any information that you can tell me would be great. I have only at this time talked to the Mayo on the phone and have not yet visited. I have been dealing with a cardiologist out of Alina in Farmington and visiting with a surgeon out of United Hospital in St. Paul. The surgeon I met with has great reviews but I read some negative reviews of the hospital and the stay there. I know besides Cleveland Clinic the Mayo is rated as the next best hospital in the nation for this procedure. How did choosing the surgeon at the Mayo go? Is the Mini Sternotomy an elective part of the operation? I need to have my valve replaced and my ascending aorta. I don't know if I am a candidate for doing the mini but it seems that you healed a lot faster and your scar is a lot smaller. What are my other options for things in the surgery? Did you go with the On-X Valve? Also how was your overall experience with the hospital and your families overall experience. I know it is a little bit longer of a drive for us to go there but in my eyes it is well worth it. Where did you do your Cardiac Rehab at? I guess I have a million questions since this is all new to me. I am at the 1 month mark of evening knowing that I have anything wrong with me. This all came up so fast by a fluke echo that I wanted to have done and already looking at surgery after I get back from vacation in Florida. The surgeon I met with said to me no matter what you will need to get it done and you have a family history of heart issues so why not just get it done as soon as you can so you don't have to worry. I will also follow you on your account so that you can have my direct email address as it maybe easier to communicate that way. I can probably type a hundred questions on here to ask you.

On March 10, 2019...

Tony Netto posted a note for Mike that says:

Good morning Mike, just saw your note. Well, hard to tell someone not be stressed that is facing surgery, but I had mitral value repair 4/5/2017 and I was like you for 3 years prior to surgery. Try to look ahead, beyond the surgery - you have so much to look forward to. Not sure where you are going to have surgery, but I went to Cleveland clinic, had Dr Marc Gillinov, and he is amazing. These cardiac surgeries have become so common and the technology is amazing. I almost hate to say it, but they are routine and the docs today are the best and specialize in only this type surgery. So rest assured, you will be fine, and you are in good hands. They take over your body for a day and "fix it", and then it's all recovery and downhill from there. Best of luck, and look forward to reading about your success.

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Tony. I have a meeting on 4/4 with the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota so then I will decide between ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Tony. I have a meeting on 4/4 with the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota so then I will decide between the two surgeons. I am looking forward to getting this thing fixed and on the road to recovery.

On March 7, 2019...

Steve posted a note for Mike that says:

I haven't used any pain killers or even tylenol after my 2 week mark. I still have sternal pain but its seems rather minor to me. Most pain I do have is while I am sleeping or having to cough. I have been sleeping after well in my power lift recliner. I stayed with my girlfriend the first 2 weeks out of the hospital and I am now living by myself back at my home. I really needed the extra help the first week but have become pretty independent otherwise. Knock on wood everything has gone really smoothly for me. I prepared by reading all the great advice on here and by doing my research on the Doctor I chose and the different valve options. Have a great vacation. A great time to getaway with another storm coming this weekend.

Valerie Herndon-Vitarella reacted to this

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Steve. That is exactly what I am doing. Study, study and study. Read everyone's story on he ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Steve. That is exactly what I am doing. Study, study and study. Read everyone's story on here and journal entries. I spend a lot of time on here everyday getting as much knowledge as I can. Do you know if the insurance company would help with getting a power lift recliner? We got one for my mother-in-law years ago when she was going through some surgeries and it was awesome for her. I plan to get one or a recliner so I can sleep on the main level of my house since I hear bed sleeping is not easy at first. Also this way I have my TV and access to bathrooms and food right next to me. I am still at the choosing my doctor and hospital I want to do this at phase but I think I am going to go with the On-x valve since I am still only 39 and don't want to have to do another one in 10 - 15 years.

On March 7, 2019...

Steve posted a note for Mike that says:

Hi Mike, I was also recommended the mechanical valve and I chose the On-X valve there was some questions until my surgeon (Dr.John Stulak) got in there if the largest valve they make would fit. So I had to have a backup valve just incase. Thankfully the 25mm On-X valve fit. I'm 3 weeks post OP today. Walking a hour a day and feeling great. Only issue I have been having which is normal is getting my INR number stabilized. Good luck to you.

Mike Roskowinski Thanks a lot Steve. I am nervous and just excited to get going on this. Anything you can tell me ab ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Thanks a lot Steve. I am nervous and just excited to get going on this. Anything you can tell me about post OP that is helpful? How is dealing with the pain for you? Any complications? What things do you wish you knew now that you are into the recovery part. I heard sleeping is not fun so I was thinking of getting a remote controlled recliner for myself to use during the recovery process. This way I can sleep on my main level and have access to my TV, the bathroom and the kitchen. Since there seems to be a lot of sleepless nights at the beginning.

On March 6, 2019...

Tom McDonald posted a note for Mike that says:

Hi Mike,
here is a short list of questions I have for my surgeon when I meet with him, I would imagine I will think of more as it gets closer to my appointment.

- option for repair/ replacement? ( right now my cardio is recommending a mechanical valve)- the Onyx. lower dosage of blood thinner. The surgeon that my cardio is highly recommending is Dr Alberto Pochettino. Mayo Clinic Rochester MN
- possible new tissue valve that would last longer?
- How many surgeries do/have you performed that are for my particular issue? ( Bicuspid)
- outcomes?
-Size of the valve to be used?
- Do you see a time where the mechanical valve would be needing a TAVR replacement?
- What does the procedure entail?
- pacemaker later in life or sooner?
- How long before I would be able to go back to a "normal" routine? ( for a 53 year old)

1 person reacted to this

Mike Roskowinski Awesome thank you. Those are the some of the question I have also been asking. I am looking at goin ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Awesome thank you. Those are the some of the question I have also been asking. I am looking at going with the On-X valve also since like you said the dose is smaller for blood thinners and it is supposed to last a long time. The surgeon you are going to see has some youtube videos outs there that I have been watching so that is pretty cool if you get a chance to have him. He seems like he knows what he is doing and talking about. There is a story out here on Fred Hoiberg from the Bulls that had to have the same surgery we did and he went with the On-X. Check it out.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C88mpgQJ_n0

Chicago Bulls Coach, Fred Hoiberg, Opens Up About His Heart Valve Surgery

https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - Watch the inspirational patient success story of NBA player & Chicago Bulls coach, Fred Hoiberg, who needed two open he...

Tom McDonald Thanks Mike. I Definately will watch.

On March 5, 2019...

Steve posted a note for Mike that says:

Hi Mike, I just had OHS to replace my aortic valve at Mayo on Feburary 14th. You will be in great hands as they have some great surgeons and care teams to choose from. I have nothing but praise for my surgeon and care team at Mayo clinic.
Steve

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Steve. I am hoping to get the ball rolling as soon as possible. Thanks for the message. I f ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Steve. I am hoping to get the ball rolling as soon as possible. Thanks for the message. I figured that hey are one of the best in the business. How is the pain management after you got home. I am trying to plan my first few weeks back at home to see how best my family and friends can help me.

On March 5, 2019...

Kenneth R. Hines posted a note for Mike that says:

Mike,

My story is a lot like yours. My father died at 49 and when I reached 50 I figured I better get some type of base line established. That's when I found out that I have an aortic root aneurysm and after a few disappointing visits with local doctors I found myself at the Cleveland Clinic. I'm under the care of cardiologist Dr. Kalahasti with surgeon Dr. Roselli warmed up and in the bull pen if I ever need him. I can not say enough good things about their care for me as well as the staff of the Cleveland Clinic.

You've made an excellent choice!

Ken

Rob Sparling reacted to this

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Ken. Yeah I have some little kids at home so I want to make sure that I live a long time to s ... Read more

Mike Roskowinski Thanks Ken. Yeah I have some little kids at home so I want to make sure that I live a long time to see them grow up. I have a nice 2 week vacation coming up here and then will have to schedule the surgery when I get back. Hoping I can meet with the Mayo on the 4th and then make my decision to have it sometime that month. I figure I want to get started and hopefully still get to enjoy a round of golf at the end of summer.