My dear friend, freakouts (small or massive) are not only allowed....but totally expected by those of us "in the know".
Still waiting....still not fair! - Linda
Mitch Friedman Thanks for your kind words. We can always count on you to be among the first to reply. Reading your ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks for your kind words. We can always count on you to be among the first to reply. Reading your words reminded me you posted about your bad day. I rushed back to your HVJ, read your post and then read what I said to you. Darn, it is so easy to give advice and so hard to remember what you say to others, let alone listen to it yourself or even follow it!! Now THAT is not fair!
I too am glad we are both going through this because it gave us a chance to meet. But really, couldn't we have found another way to meet?????
On January 20, 2012...
Mitch,
We're all going through this together with you. Thanks to your postings, we have a greater appreciation for the details, including your sharing of thoughts and feelings, beyond the facts and checklists. Everything you're going through sounds pretty "normal" and how I'd feel. Yes, glad you spaced this out and didn't cram it all together. Nothing really you can do but put on the brave face, walk forward, and put your trust in the hands of the professionals who will do what they do every day.
May be hard to do but take the Greyhound mentality...."sit back and leave the driving to us."
Thanks for already showing your bravery, courage, and moxie in sharing your emotions and thoughts with us; your dream team of friends, family, supporters, and cheerleaders.
- Poly
Mitch Friedman I SO apreciate your words and encouragement. Thanks so much!
On January 20, 2012...
Thanks for keeping us posted Mitch. Glad to hear that you kept your breakfast contained. Keep the posts coming. Jeff
I've been in healthcare almost as long also. I've also had the unfortunate experience of being a patient recently as well. so, I can see it from both sides. Personally, even in a step down cardiac unit, I feel the care is not as "individual" as it can be. It never hurts to have one person dedicated to patient advocacy just for you, unless you are in a critical care unit. Especially post op!
On January 20, 2012...
I am sorry if I offended anyone. I can only go by my own experience as a heart valve patient 6 weeks ago. I have worked in the medical field for 25 plus years, but the last two years have landed me in the hospital 3 times , but this time as a patient. It was only through those experiences that I was able to see the other side as a patient. I am truly sorry if my opinion was taken as a criticism. It was not intended that way.
Jane
On January 20, 2012...
p.s. a yeah I've NEVER had any experience with Dr.s hospitals and the like right?
On January 20, 2012...
smack! apparently I don't know my ass from my elbow! Never mind...no more posting for me as every time I say something someone has a comment. good luck to you...
On January 20, 2012...
Hi Mitch,
I was reading your guestbook. Just to put my two cents in. If I had a private duty nurse at Columbia in the step down, we would have tripped over her. The nurses are there constantly, as well as nursing assistants. If anything you want to be left alone a little more. They were so attentive. It is a little different on a cardiac floor nothing is insignificant to them.
I hope everything is going well today. Let us know.
Jane
As far as a private duty nurse goes...you will not need one in ICU. that's why it is called the "intensive" care unit. Don't listen to Mom. (sorry mom, but it's the truth on this one) However, really good idea to have some extra care in step down, at least for the first night. A patient advocate dedicated only to you is all that you need for that first night or two. good luck today...maybe you will even call and let me know how it goes?
Mitch Friedman Nice to see you back in my guestbook. I missed you.
On January 19, 2012...
Mitch, I hope I didn't sound like I was transferring my concerns onto you , my situation is possibly a little different. There is a very strong genetic predisposition for thoracic aortic aneurysms on both maternal and paternal sides of my family. My father, who is now 84 has an 8.5 cm (not a typo) aneurysm that involves his entire ascending, arch and descending aorta all the way down to his kidneys. No surgeon will touch it, they say he will not survive the surgery. Two of his brothers also had TAAs, one died from a rupture. My mother died suddenly at the age of 53 and aneurysm was suspected although an autopsy was not done. My question in my case is how do we know for sure that my dilation is a result of the stenotic valve and will not worsen if the valve is replaced and not the genetic connective tissue disorder? My father and uncles do not have valve issues.
I don't know how Dr. Gillinov feels about it, I have only spoken with his nurse,but I will surely discuss my concerns with him. At the end of the day I have chosen to put myself in his hands, am going a long way and to a considerable amount of inconvenience. Wouldn't I be stupid to get up there and argue with the expert?
This is tough for all of us, so many decisions to make, but are we really qualified to make them? Sometimes I wish I didn't have any say in what kind of valve, what kind of incision, etc. Just pay the man and let him do his job, lol.
Hope your days are good, sounds like you are handling everything well. Keep me posted friend.
Still waiting....Linda
I
Mitch Friedman Thanks for the additional info Linda. Had the scan today, now we will see. For me, no decision to m ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks for the additional info Linda. Had the scan today, now we will see. For me, no decision to make. What is my measurement, compare to 4.5cm and voila, I have a decision. More to follow.
On January 19, 2012...
Hi Mitch,
Think of it this way, if there is a chance that you need more heart work, you would want to know now and not hear a year from now that it should have been done. You will cross that bridge when you get to it. I just got in from a 4 o'clock 6 week post op visit with Dr. Smith at Columbia. It went very well. I then went to dinner at Haru on 43rd. then caught a 7 o'clock showing of Alicia Keyes "Stick Fly" and was on my way home be 9:45. Ain't New York great. We are so spoiled. I will be thinking of you and hope your CT scan goes well. Please keep me posted. I really care.
Jane
Mitch Friedman Talk about many NY minutes!!! Way to go. Your progress is encouraging.
On January 19, 2012...
Hi Mitch,
We have something in common. We are scheduled to have our surgeries on the same day. My surgery is scheduled for 6:45 am on Feb 2nd. You sound like me, I have made a lot of calls to the surgeon's office asking many questions. I have been diagnosed with mitral valve regurgitation. I will be having robotic surgery to repair my leaky valve. I wish you well with no complications. My prayers are with you.
Carmen Pettiford
Mitch Friedman Good to know of others who share Groundhog day as their big day. I can't help but think of Bill Murr ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Good to know of others who share Groundhog day as their big day. I can't help but think of Bill Murray's movie. It is bad enough to be doing this once, but have it turn into the movie...shoot me now! Good luck to you. My prayers will be with you too.
On January 19, 2012...
My apologies for multiple posts. Not intended Just this darn thing seems to have a mind of its own.
Anyway. You can imagine your fan club wants pix of u in the Jammie's. So well be looking forward to those.
Hope it goes easy for u my friend.
Hugs. Nancy
On January 19, 2012...
Mitch, I wrote the note to you today at 4:35. Sorry I didn't leave my name. My name is Carol.
On January 19, 2012...
Mitch,
I also have aortic insuffiency and a 4.6cm ascending aortic anerysm(sp?). After a scare with an echo by my local cardio in July where it said my anerysm had enlarged, I went to Mayo and they did a thorough CT scan which showed that the anerysm had not gotten any bigger. They said that CT's or MRI are more accurate than Echos. Good luck with all your tests. I will be interested in following your progress since my surgery is in the future.
Mitch Friedman Thanks so much for your comments. Let me know who wrote this so I can follow your HVJ. Thanks!
On January 19, 2012...
Hi Mitch,
Knowledge is power! Whatever you learn, it will help you and the surgeon prepare better for your surgery. Admittedly, less is better, but getting everything taken care of is best.
Everything in its time as far as when things get scheduled.
Hope the run and workout session today were good. It will really help to be in the best shape you can achieve prior to the surgery. I had another exercise session today, similar to the one on Tuesday, just not quite as long or intense. I am trying not to over do it and to save some energy for dancing this weekend.
Hope things go well tomorrow.
John Lund
Mitch Friedman Great words of wisdom. AGAIN from you John. Thank you so much for all your guidance and support. Gl ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Great words of wisdom. AGAIN from you John. Thank you so much for all your guidance and support. Glad you continue to do well and push, but also listen to your body.
On January 19, 2012...
Good luck tomorrow Mitch, however you want it to turn out. Personally, I hope they fix mine, whether they think it is big enough or not. I don't want to have to get CTs done every six months until it gets large enough for them to say, "ok, now we got to go back in again and fix the dilated aorta". But then its like NOOOOOOOO, I don't want THAT! That makes the surgery more complicated. So, I so know how you are feeling. They tell me that the CT is more accurate for measuring the dilation than the cath is.
By the way...it was me the other night sneaking around the HVJ site, lol.
Let us know how it goes tomorrow.
Still waiting...Linda
Mitch Friedman One mystery solved, the anonymous post was you. LOL.
From what I understand, the 4.5cm limit is b ... Read more
Mitch Friedman One mystery solved, the anonymous post was you. LOL.
From what I understand, the 4.5cm limit is based on risk of a future event. So, if you are below that limit, you should not need a surgery in the future for the aorta. If you have not seen it, I found great info on the Cleveland Clinic site under bicuspid aortic valve, then look for other risks.
"What I want" is an interesting question, because despite what I said above, I share some of the concerns as you. If I am right at the limit (ex. 4.4cm) should they just replace it???? For that I will leave it to my surgeon, but of course ask him lots of questions.
Thanks for all of your support.
On January 19, 2012...
So my iPad writes words I do not type. I meant
about. - snout. Omg.
On January 19, 2012...
I'd rather hear more snout your Jammies :)
I Also don't understand why you (we) need a ct scan. I Thot the cath does the work. Good luck. All will be great. Says she who is not having it. Lov ya. Nanc
Mitch Friedman What did you do to upset your iPad??? I got this post 4 times. I deleted the extras, hope that is O ... Read more
Mitch Friedman What did you do to upset your iPad??? I got this post 4 times. I deleted the extras, hope that is OK. Unless you were looking to emphasize your comments...
I am told I need a CT scan because the lower portion of my ascending aorta (the aortic root, I believe???) is enlarged. Mine is at 4.2cm and I am told the limit is 4.5cm. Above that the risk for an aortic aneurism at some point in the future is unacceptably high. So, I am guessing you don't have an enlarged aorta, so you don't need a CT scan. I further understand the CT scan produces the clearest pictures, which is why I am getting both a CT scan and a cardiac cath.
Hope that helps.
BTW, my new jammies are from Lands End. I went with the lighter weight ones, 2 pair. Light blue, and blue and white striped (a la prison garb, very fitting for this occasion). I know you really did not care, but there you have it. If you are really good, I will tell you all about my new robe and slippers. Hey, I am just trying to fit in with the 90 year old that kicked mine and Janis' butt on the treadmill!
On January 19, 2012...
What a wonderful HV Journal! You have always been a Sharer, Bravo to you. Try to stay cool, may the journey be smooth, we are in your camp, always the best for you, looking forward to seeing you soon, Best always, Ted Kramer.
Mitch Friedman Thanks so much for following my journey and adding posts. It mean so much to me that you and Linda a ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks so much for following my journey and adding posts. It mean so much to me that you and Linda are part of this. Truly, it does.
On January 19, 2012...
Janis what has mitchs behind have to do with his valve surgery. oh well you guys have been at it longer... way to go mitch I'm having difficulty logging on it won't recognize my email darn it.. how do we reach the HVJ folks?? nancy
On January 18, 2012...
Ok so u got Jammie's. That's so good. Don't forget slippers. Ya don't want a new valve / and get athetes feet do you ??? They can fix valves but athletes feet is darn hard to get rid of !!
I haven't called the hospital. Why do we need to do that? Hmmm. Did I miss something ? Lord knows they'll find me if I don't pay. And ins is good. So do I HAVE to call them & do something or Did u just call to chat ? Ha ha
Coming soon to a theatre near you MITCH'S NEW VALVE
Ok guess I'm babbling. I'm tired. Night & hope all goes smooth cuz ! Nancy Friedman. Ps. Your kids pix are beautiful.
Mitch Friedman Of course I got new slippers! I ordered some junkie ones, but have now upgraded to the primo shearli ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Of course I got new slippers! I ordered some junkie ones, but have now upgraded to the primo shearling ones. They should arrive any day now.
I called the hospital to see if being in the patient spotlight qualified me for VIP benefits at my hospital. Hmmm....
Actually, my family has been pushing me to explore getting a private nurse. So I called for the 411. Also spoke to my surgeons office about it too. They said a private nurse was not needed, but a heatlh aid to be with me the first night in step donw, after ICU, might not be a bad idea. Nor sure if I will do it, but I did get all the info.
I'm up 2 weeks from today. Thanks for all your continued support.
On January 18, 2012...
Mitch, I think of you all the time and say a prayer that you will have an easy surgery. I know it is getting close and the anxiety of waiting is hard. You will do great and soon be on your way to recovery and good health. You are young, in good health and have plenty of support. Don’t worry, my friend, all will go smooth. They wouldn't of picked you for "patient spotlight" otherwise...just sayin...LOL. Soon, all this will be behind you and you will be posting, sharing and making us all smile. Janis Kielbasa
Mitch Friedman Thank you so much. You know I am routing for you. Hope today was easier for you. Yes, waiting is h ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thank you so much. You know I am routing for you. Hope today was easier for you. Yes, waiting is hard and my surgeon's office/insurance company is really pissing me off by not getting my CT scan scheduled. Arghhhh!
On January 17, 2012...
Hey Mitch....just me....sneaking around the HVJ site. :-)
Re., the Jan 14th post. Damn right you should be in the gym (and your trainer is not paying me to write this!); no slacking off. I'm not looking to hang with the weak and flabby.
Between the workout routine and the forthcoming chest scar, I'm gonna wanna be part of your beach entourage this summer; gonna take the ancillary pickings off your hands.
- Poly
PS - Still working through the tat selections for your chest piece!
Mitch Friedman Thanks boy! Come on, we both know even before the workouts and the scar your were getting the ancill ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks boy! Come on, we both know even before the workouts and the scar your were getting the ancillary pickings. HEY NOW! Just kidding. Thanks for all your support.
On January 16, 2012...
Keep pushing Mitch...will serve you well in your recovery. I am a big believer in pushing yourself, especially when you feel like doing nothing. It's the only way to get back to where you want to be.
Eye of the tiger Mitch!
JH Mattingly
Mitch Friedman Thanks JH! Good to know there are other fanatics out there like me. Plus, given your amazing recove ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks JH! Good to know there are other fanatics out there like me. Plus, given your amazing recovery how can I not follow your advice? As always, I greatly appreciate your comments.
On January 16, 2012...
Hi Mitch! Thanks for signing my guestbook! I should visit the site more often. :(
You can do this!!! You CAN! It sounds like you're in great shape! I had 2 valves replaced and bounced back in about a month's time. I came down with C-Diff in the hospital...that was more difficult than heart surgery! Goodness!
Some advice...whether you want it or not! :) The second they tell you to begin walking (baby steps) do it! They will give you a special tube to practice your breathing...do it! I'm a middle school band director and have my students practice breathing exercises as part of our warm up routine every day. Well, I told my surgeon that I would conquer the breathing part!!!! HA! Well, it didn't happen. That was the hardest part of it! BUT, if you walk and practice the breathing...you will recover at a much faster pace....and keep a good attitude going!
I wish you well on your journey. It was scary for me too, but I don't for a second regret it! :) I will follow your story. The hardest part is the few days before going in. The rest goes up from there!!!!
We are all here for you!!!
YOU can do it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Christy
Mitch Friedman Thanks for the great advice Christy. Glad you are doing so well. All the best.
On January 15, 2012...
:) :) :)
On January 15, 2012...
do you all notice Mitch emails sound like he must talk in NY/EASE... LOL
funny
nancy friedman / and we're not related.!! st louis MO
Mitch - Appreciate the note in my journal. I'm somewhat apprehensive about Tuesday but nothing like I was expecting - still time though!
I will post updates after my surgery to share with others like you who are having surgery after me. I agree with you, this site sort of sucks you in and you can't help but get totally absorbed reading the posts. Maybe that changes after surgery because from then on, it's all about you and what came out of your surgery and how and how fast your body recovers. I'm sure each case is unique but still somewhat like others. Hopefully I can share nothing but good thoughts and experiences!
Stay in touch.
Dick Miller - Cincinnati, Ohio
Mitch Friedman Good luck on Tuesday Dick! Not sure what the equivalent of 'break a leg' is for heart valve surgery? ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Good luck on Tuesday Dick! Not sure what the equivalent of 'break a leg' is for heart valve surgery? Blow a gasket? Never mind, we have already done that which is how we got here in the first place. Anyway, good luck!
On January 15, 2012...
OMG!!!!!!!!!
This was truly the funniest thing i ever read eva!!!!!!! It involves all our fav funnies: big stubborn bullas, kids, parenting, kids drama and how fun it is to make fun of them and ONNNN.
YOU GOTTA GO READ THIS:
http://www.theburghbaby.com/burghbaby/what-a-way-to-go.html
Mitch Friedman You are SO right. This is by far the funniest thing eva!!!
Everyone has go to this link and read ... Read more
Mitch Friedman You are SO right. This is by far the funniest thing eva!!!
Everyone has go to this link and read it. REALLY. Unless you just had OHS, then I would wait until laughing does not hurt so much.
Thanks for da' link HG!
On January 15, 2012...
I never understood you "gym' people. My kids are gym rats like you. Very impressive, Sir. I had to buy an outfit for my stress test. LOL. I'm all about outside, I hike and kayak so until spring arrives I will have to decide if I want to join a sweaty, smelly, grunty, germy gym lol...yes, I'm a (Howie Mandel germ a phob) or just use my treadmill at home. I live across the street from forest and river with endless wooded trails so hopefully after cardiac re-hab I can get out on them. After surgery, you just are all about being your best healthy self. You will have a great recovery but do give your body rest...each week gets better and each week is closer to complete recovery. We are so blessed to be able to be fixed and lead complete lives again. Janis Kielbasa
Mitch Friedman Thanks for the encouraging words, always appreciated. Glad to know your improvement continues.
Mitch Friedman Thanks for the encouraging words, always appreciated. Glad to know your improvement continues.
Do you kayak in your bathtub when it is cold out?
On January 15, 2012...
Hi Mitch,
I decided to check back in with you after you posted in my journal. I have also requested to be notified of your updates.
You are definitely correct about listening to your body, whether before or after your surgery.
Although I did not work out much, I kept active with walking, dancing, and yard work, of which I had a lot to do getting the place cleaned up before my surgery.
The surgery took a lot out of me mentally and physically. I was surprised at how weak I was the day after when I had to get out of bed and sit in the chair. I had a person on each side of me helping me. The initial time was the worst, I was able to do better the next day and by the time I was discharged, I was getting up and down on my own without trouble.
That said, keep up your exercise routine as it will really help you in your recovery; but also listen to your body, both before and after the surgery. I had to be careful not to over do it in my recovery as I was anxious to get more active, but my body and the rehab staff knew I had limits. It was frustrating at times as I wanted to do more. I highly recommend a rehab program afterwards,
My Mitral Valve was repaired, so I did not have to decide which replacement valve to use, although the surgeon had recommended a tissue valve rather mechanical valve for me, partly because of my age and not needing to have coumadin. A friend of mine at work told me about a time he was visiting a friend and heard a clicking noise and started looking around for where it was coming from. His friend realized he was hearing his mechanical valve and told him what it was. He said to let him know when he could not hear it as he would need to know quickly as he had gotten so used to it, he did not hear it anymore himself and would need him to tell him.
Take care,
John Lund
Mitch Friedman Always word of wisdom from you John. I greatly appreciate it. Thank you! Glad your recovery is pro ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Always word of wisdom from you John. I greatly appreciate it. Thank you! Glad your recovery is progressing nicely. All the best.
On January 14, 2012...
Hi cuz. Glad u r up & about & exercising. I realllly miss it. But am still going 2cw a week with my husband. We have a trainer at the gym. I used to scream at him about the lunges. But now after hearing we need to Leann to get out of the chairs etc with out using our arms. My legs are strong.
Doing pretty well. Best part is am keeping busy. I love that. U go 2/2. ! Who will post for u certainly not the baby ? Take the iPad & I'll bet u r posting ur self real soon.
I'd tell a joke here but they too long to write
Oh here's a short one
I joined a gym 6 monthsago Cost $300. Have not lost a pound. Apparently you have to go there.
:). Night.
Hugs & best. Nancy Friedman. St Louis.
Mitch Friedman Hey new cuz! Not sure who will post for me, but I certainly will have someone providing updates. My ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Hey new cuz! Not sure who will post for me, but I certainly will have someone providing updates. My "baby" is actually 6 on 1/26 (why i waited for my surgery). Check out my pics to see them. Keep up the work at the gym, will help recovery and I love your positive outlook on all of this.
Here is one back for you: I bought instant water the other day, but I did not know what to add to it.
On January 14, 2012...
Het Mitch,
I answered you on my guestbook by accident.
I have to watch what I say or you might be writing to be behind bars.
Jane
Mitch Friedman Nah, post away. I am pretty sure Adam arranged for immunity for all things posted on this sight. Tru ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Nah, post away. I am pretty sure Adam arranged for immunity for all things posted on this sight. Trust me......
On January 14, 2012...
Hi Mitch!
Your story sounds just like mine. I'm 49 (was 48 when I had surgery). I had pretty much the same thing you have.
My surgery was June 30 last year. I had the St. Jude installed. It is a bit loud at time, but who cares? My heart is healthy now!
I know you've heard this a lot on this site, but it's true: the pre-surgery stress is the worst part.
I ended up having a pacemaker put in a couple days after OHS since some of then"wiring" got messed up during surgery. It really hasn't been an issue though.
All-in-all my OHS was very positive. The first few days were tough and I had a couple bad days in rehab, but I feel great now.
I'll be following your postings and will keep you in my prayers. Feel free to email me if you have any questions. kentkersey@gmail.com
Cheers,
Kent Kersey,
Salem, OR
PS. I LOVE NY city. One of my most favorite places in the world.
Mitch Friedman So the good news is with all that new hardware in your chest, you should get special treatment at air ... Read more
Mitch Friedman So the good news is with all that new hardware in your chest, you should get special treatment at airport security when you come visit NYC. I guess that is one of those zipper chest club benefits DVB was talking about.
Thanks so much for reaching out to me. Always encouraging to hear others discuss their experience in a positive light. All the best.
On January 13, 2012...
Hi Mitch,
I left Janis a guestbook message that included you. I am addicted to this site. I check my bank balance, emails and heart valve journals. What is this world coming to? At least its not an ED site.
Jane
Mitch Friedman Loved the recap of the 'burbs. It is all so true for around here. Yes, this site is addicting. But ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Loved the recap of the 'burbs. It is all so true for around here. Yes, this site is addicting. But you are right, there are worse places to get lost.
On January 13, 2012...
Good afternoon Mitchell,
Ted and I wish you smooth sailing.
We have two friends that have heart valves.
Both are men. One is in his fifties and the
other in around sixty years old. They have
these valves for 15plus years. Both are
extremely active( exercise daily, work full
time and play golf). We will be seeing Ralph,
(sixty plus) tomorrow night. He is in the
foursome Ted plays golf with on Sat mornings
at the Griff in Greenwich. They walk with
their bags for 18 holes. Our other friend
Ron Meshberg is at Admirals Cove in Fl
until April, is a scratch golfer, plays tennis
has a boat, travels abroad and is a freelance
writer. Some of his articles have been published
in CT Magazine. I believe his surgery was
a near emergency.
We plan to follow your journal and remain
very positive about your journey.
All our love,
Linda and Ted
Mitch Friedman Thanks so much for your well wishes. Good to know your friends are doing so well, very encouraging. ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks so much for your well wishes. Good to know your friends are doing so well, very encouraging.
I can only hope my valve last an unusually long time, like the tube Ted put in my ear 40 years ago when he took out my tonsils.
Btw, I hope all your friends have heart valves. Sorry, of course I know what you meant, but I just could not resist. All my best to you both.
On January 13, 2012...
Hi Mitch,
I have Feb. 2nd circled on my calendar and will send prayers up for you. I look forward to following your journey and your post op.
Yesterday was 6 months post op. I love my new found energy. I was back to work at 6 weeks and logging in more walking miles than ever. Got back into hiking, kayaking and added a few nutty activities to go with them.
Your smile radiates joy! The anxiety you'll be feeling will catch you off guard until your surgery. Then, after surgery, your happiness & joy will return in full force.
Stay strong, my New York friend!!
Sheila Garrison - Apple Valley, CA
Mitch Friedman Thanks Sheila for the advice and encouragement. Love that you have nutty activities in your life and ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks Sheila for the advice and encouragement. Love that you have nutty activities in your life and are making the most of your recovery. Luckily I am able to continue full steam ahead with my exercise, as long as I turn my brain off. All the best and keep making the most out of life.
On January 12, 2012...
U also r so frigging right. This place is so addictive agggggg. I'm so tired & wanna go to sleep but afraid ill miss something. Agggggg
Mitch Friedman Me too, but I am crashing soon. My little one is up at 6am sharp. She does not seem to care daddy w ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Me too, but I am crashing soon. My little one is up at 6am sharp. She does not seem to care daddy was up blogging late and too stupid to turn off his pc and go to sleep. Ain't kids great!?!?
On January 12, 2012...
I used to have a. NANCY FRIEDMAN club. In fact theres one in NYC the pr lady. I met her
Ok. We're locked in forever. I'm doing pretty good. Traveling a lot prior to 2-9. So that'll keep me busy.
U go before me so suck it up ! And yeah save me a red solo cup ! Later cuz. Nancy. :).
On January 12, 2012...
Me again. I have to say your journal is the most fun one yet. I was also in touch with pat culley who Thot she mite go to CCF but stayed in calif. from her posts she too had wanted a mini. But ended up w/ full Monty. So be it.
These journals r super. Aren't they ? Have you been on the other one ?? Valve replacement.org ? It's a bit different & tho I'm on both not sure one has more info that the other. It's formatted differently but same type of comraderie. Amongst folks.
I'm hoping for mini but we all know how that goes. Hmmmm. Best part my husband got me. New recliner. Hear that's key ! :).
I'll try to learn how to put my pix up on my site -
Again. Best to u. Nancy.
Mitch Friedman My long lost cousin Nancy!!! Funny thing is I have an Aunt Nancy in the Midwest. She was a Friedman ... Read more
Mitch Friedman My long lost cousin Nancy!!! Funny thing is I have an Aunt Nancy in the Midwest. She was a Friedman at one time. But not in a long time.
I love that there are more Friedmans now. As a Friedman, you can come to the keg parties as an honoree. No $5 charge for the large red Solo cup.
Yes, we can and will be fixed. And yes, we will be fine. The nice thing is, even though it is said all the time, by everyone, every now and then you get it at thevexact moment need to hear it.
Priceless!!!!
Stay in touch fellow Friedman and be well.
On January 12, 2012...
Okok. I don't wanna be left out of this fun monolog. I doubt Mitch and I r related but as a friedman in st Louis wanted to connect.
Mitch u go one week before me. I get new AVR 2-9 and feel like everyone else I'm sure. While a bit older ( never mind how much ). I'm a professional speaker and gave my self 12 weeks between presentations. Dr says "ok". So hoping he's right. In another email I'll forward u what was sent to me & it's kept my head on straight.
We r really lucky to have something that can be fixed !! And while positive attitudes always help we also r realistic. Good news tho it seems to pass quickly -
Well didn't mean to ramble on. Just saying what you'll hear 1000 times. " you'll be fine" and I'll follow a fellow Friedman Til I go in. So take good notes please !! Stay well & in touch.
Best wishes. Nancy Friedman. St Louis mo
On January 12, 2012...
You will be fine sooner???? :-(
Bad boy!!
:-) :-) :-)
-Your friend Linda
Mitch Friedman I'm sitting in the corner now. Looking sad, big puppy dog eyes. Close your eyes and you will see me ... Read more
Mitch Friedman I'm sitting in the corner now. Looking sad, big puppy dog eyes. Close your eyes and you will see me.
On January 11, 2012...
Hey "Spotlight Guy" and "Sudden e-mail Friend" - you will do fine!! I HAVE to say this because I will need to hear it when its my turn :) Something I have learned well in recent years that has helped me through a lot (this included). "You can't control what happens to you, only how you REACT to what happens to you". So CHOOSE your reaction my friend. Easy to say I know, but not so easy to do. We can't change what god gave us, so we may as well go with the flow. I'm no motivational guy, just trying to ease your mind and remind you that you control that mind of yours. We are all here to support you and we are all so blessed that we even have choices and have amazing doctors and technology. Consider that 50% of the people who get symptoms die within 2 years if they don't get this surgery. Then consider how lucky we are to have that choice. And then finally consider how many people came before us and have this done and have went on to live incredible long lives. I am not the religious type, but I must say again, we are blessed!. You'll do fine. :))
Mitch Friedman Thank you my new friend. Very good advice and not bad for a guy who is not motivational. I agree, w ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thank you my new friend. Very good advice and not bad for a guy who is not motivational. I agree, we are blessed!
On January 11, 2012...
Hello Patient in the Spotlight, I look forward to your posts. :) Janis Kielbasa
Mitch Friedman You are a tough act to follow. Thanks for passing the baton....I think. Oh the pressure of the spot ... Read more
Mitch Friedman You are a tough act to follow. Thanks for passing the baton....I think. Oh the pressure of the spotlight, might cause me to need a HVR. Wait....never mind.
On January 11, 2012...
want you to know i could always talk to you and you always could make me cry not much has changed i love you mucjh di p.s. your mom
On January 11, 2012...
Mitch,
Re., the waiting issue, Tom Petty agrees:
The waiting is the hardest part
Every day you see one more card
You take it on faith, you take it to the heart
The waiting is the hardest part.
So, you ain't alone...your part of the in crowd (but that's another song!).
- Dave
On January 11, 2012...
Well aren't you special!!!! I know a star!!!
I bet Janis called Adam, lol!!!
Enjoy your time in the spotlight!!
Your friend,
Linda
Mitch Friedman Too funny, isn't it???? Thanks for all your support.
On January 11, 2012...
Mitch, Everything you are feeling is normal. The anxiety of waiting is the worse. You will be fine, you really will. Just think, we can be fixed and yes...these docs do it all the time. You will lead a full and complete life. I grew up watching my dad go through 5 open hearts. His first at age 39, he survived them all and had a great life. He died at age 76 and not heart related. I am 54, so you can imagine how things were when he had surgery compared to now. I did all my research, reading, checking in here, getting best surgeons, etc and then let it go....did not think about it till day of surgery. Then in a flash, its over and you are on your way to recovery. You are informed, have top docs, great hospital...all will be fine. Today I am 14 days post op....yes, I hurt but its managable, I no longer have to fear, I am fixed. Go get fixed....and take over the patient spotlight...cause I'm moving on to playboy centerfold. LOL. Hugs, my friend. You will do great!! Janis Kielbasa
Mitch Friedman Oh, big hugs for you my friend. Thanks for your kind, supportive words. And you are right. The wai ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Oh, big hugs for you my friend. Thanks for your kind, supportive words. And you are right. The waiting is the worst and it is best to make decisions and then let it go. Problem is, I misplaced my bucket of sand, so I need to go find it. Your are the best, thanks.
Still waiting....still not fair! - Linda
I too am glad we are both going through this because it gave us a chance to meet. But really, couldn't we have found another way to meet?????