Hi Mitch, just stopping by to say hi. How are you doing? I hope each week brings you closer to good health. I'm well, putting most of this behind me and thinking ahead. As long as all my repairs stay in place...I'm good. I find my biggest battle is fatigue. I know once spring/summer hits...I will be outdoors and re energized. Take care of yourself. Keep up the good fight. Cheers. Janis K.
Mitch Friedman Yes, fatigue still creeps up on me fast. Interesting you still have it too. Wonder how long it will ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Yes, fatigue still creeps up on me fast. Interesting you still have it too. Wonder how long it will be that way???? So glad we connected here. Be well!
On March 6, 2012...
Mitch,
Great to meet you in person. Thanks for everything! You've been amazing!
Jeff
On March 4, 2012...
Hi Mitch, I am so glad you are doing well!!! Seems like you have a great support system, I have a question for you, do you still have your back discomfort? can you describe what the pain was like?
Take care, and I wish you continued recovery.
Carmen
Mitch Friedman Hi Carmen, thanks for your well wishes. I am lucky in that things are going well and I do have a man ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Hi Carmen, thanks for your well wishes. I am lucky in that things are going well and I do have a many people helping me along the way.
I fear you are asking about my back because you have some pain/discomfort? My back pain has stopped. When I did have pain, my back muscles would tighten and loosen on their own. When they tightened, I had tremendous, tremendous pain and had to get a muscle relaxer from my doctor (Valium). I used that for 2 days and the spasms stopped. Afterwards, my back was really sore, felt like I went a few rounds with Mike Tyson giving me body blows. I am talking REALLY sore. However, over time, that went away too.
I am wishing you all the best and hopefully, if you are having pain, it will go away soon. I really encourage you to call your doctor. I bothered the crap out of mine until I finally started feeling better. They have seen all this stuff before and know how to help. I also used a heating pad to help with my back.
Good luck Carmen.
On March 3, 2012...
Great reply. I think I hear that on the loudspeaker too!
Jeff
On March 3, 2012...
Hi Mitch,
I see that you had a consult with Dr Girardiā¦.did he perform the surgery for you? I am in the process of scheduling a consult with him within the next couple of weeks. I was wondering how your experience was with Dr Girardi and NY Presb Hospital. Hope you are doing well.
Thanks,
David Tatelbaum
Mitch Friedman Hi David. Yes, Dr. Girardi did my surgery. Replaced my aortic valve with a tissue valve and repaire ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Hi David. Yes, Dr. Girardi did my surgery. Replaced my aortic valve with a tissue valve and repaired my root/lower ascending aorta with a Dacron graft. Girardi is an amazing, talented surgeon. He is one of the top surgeons in NYC. His staff is amazing as is all of NYP. I had an amazing experience and highly, highly, highly recommend taking the same route as me. If I can answer any questions for you, feel free to contact me at mfspenceny@yahoo.com or 917-561-1574. Lots of people helped me when I was in your shoes and I love to pay it forward. Good luck to you.
On March 2, 2012...
Mitch, it sounds like you are doing just fine. Just remember that the healing will be up and down. Some days, or weeks, you'll feel amazing and others will be just ok, and some will just down right suck. But the bad days will happen less and not last as long, the farther out of surgery you get. At four to six weeks I could do everyday things that the normal person could do but it's been 8 months and I'm still not my normal self. But it gets alot better. So keep your head up and don't get discouraged. A big turning point for me was about 6 months. But I think over doing it to early may have set me back a little.
Mitch Friedman Thanks for the solid advice and the encouraging words. Yes, good days and bad, just need to go with ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks for the solid advice and the encouraging words. Yes, good days and bad, just need to go with it and be patient. Gosh I hate being patient! Or being a patient for that matter! Thanks again.
On March 2, 2012...
PSS. I mean Chris & Niki.
On March 2, 2012...
PS. So glad you got to visit Jeff and Niki. That was so thoughtful. Janis K.
Mitch Friedman Gotto go see my heart valve brother while he is here! Glad you continue to do well.
On March 1, 2012...
What a cuz ! Beautiful. Glad u will get to meet Jeff. & I'll catch up with you in may !! My post week 3 is today so I'm right behind you. Just not walking as fast or as much. But doing good
Come on now, no way I ever forget my "non cuz." Now we have the Dixons (Linda and Chris), using our terms Geez, you would think they could be more original!?!?!?!?!
Glad you are doing well. Keep up the good work.
On March 1, 2012...
Mitch,
Musical reply to the March 1st post.
Check in w/ you this weekend.
- Poly
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8EiiQuUtoQ
Mitch Friedman Classic!!!! Love it!!!! (takes me some time to get to the links). Hey Now!!! Thanks Ploy.
On March 1, 2012...
Mitch,
It has been a true blessing to get to know you. Your presence over the last few days has made this stay in NYC feel a little more like home. Life is a gift!
Niki
Mitch Friedman Yes, getting to know you and Chris has been a blessing for me too. So glad the big guy continues to ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Yes, getting to know you and Chris has been a blessing for me too. So glad the big guy continues to do so well.
On March 1, 2012...
Hey Mitch,
I don't think you'll forget about your "rebirth/second chance". The blunt force trauma that led to my being on the 'someday' list for AVR was a result of an accident that should have killed me, or left me brain damaged or permanently disabled in some way. No question I was "Humpty Dumpty" and had a difficult battle to get back to being very physically active. Now that I'm back to my old self (but for a leaky, wheezing, pathetic-sounding heart) I still continually give thanks for my good health and my ability to physically push myself with many challenging activities.
Something like this *does* change your perspective and makes you realize that you don't need to sweat the small stuff in life. Each day we have is a gift (no one has a guarantee of how many days we have left). Although it may not always be foremost in your mind every day, you'll get regular reminders of your good fortune. You won't forget or take your rebirth for granted.
Mitch Friedman Words to live by. And your story is so encouraging. Horrible accident to very physically active, yo ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Words to live by. And your story is so encouraging. Horrible accident to very physically active, you are an inspiration! Thanks for posting.
On March 1, 2012...
Mitch, Glad to hear you are doing so well.
A walk in Central Park would be Wonderful. I have always wanted to visit New York during the holidays. This may be the year. Maybe I need to start my bucket list!
It sounds like there and up and down days. I will try to remember this when I have a blue day.
Take care.
Jan
Mitch Friedman Yes, Jan good days and not so good days. But come on, once you get to the other side of srugery, we ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Yes, Jan good days and not so good days. But come on, once you get to the other side of srugery, we have a lot to be thankful for, so even the not so good days are a blessing. Good luck to you my friend.
On March 1, 2012...
Mitch,
I can certainly see how the mental/emotional aspects can be the toughest part. Remember, no one expects anything from you. You set your own goals and you know what you can or should or want to do. I feel the same way about this rebirth/second chance stuff BUT I don't know how I will be on the other side. I know I have a lot more life to live and there are things I am here on this earth to do. I know we will both make the world a better place moving forward. Take it one day at a time and always remain grateful for all you have. Below is a link to a video I was sent yesterday by one of my employees. It puts it all in perspective. Keep on rocking' bro! You are doing great and we all are proud of you.
Jeff Shebovsky
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gc4HGQHgeFE&sns=em
Mitch Friedman Thanks bro. Before you know it, you will be on the other side of surgery with all of us here. I can ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks bro. Before you know it, you will be on the other side of surgery with all of us here. I can't wait!!!!
You have been a good friend through all of this, thanks so much for the laughs and all the support.
I hear something on the loud speakers....."now on deck, the pitcher, Jeff Shebovsky, Shebovksy...." and the crowd goes wild!
Mitch Friedman Just had a chance to watch the vidoe in the link. All I can say is WOW!!! Thanks so much for sharin ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Just had a chance to watch the vidoe in the link. All I can say is WOW!!! Thanks so much for sharing it.
On March 1, 2012...
Mitch, I just finished reading your entry and didn't want it to end. You write wonderfully. For all of us waiting your words are like candy. So sweet. You are an inspiration. Keep writing... A book maybe? Thank you for showing us how we can recover if we choose. Steph Cole
Mitch Friedman Wow, Steph, I am not sure what to say, except thank you for such a wonderful post. Not only do I get ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Wow, Steph, I am not sure what to say, except thank you for such a wonderful post. Not only do I get so much out of posting and the support I receive back, but reading your comment and knowing I help others leaves me humble. I am so glad, me sharing is a benefit to many. Thank you for being an inspiration to me. I know you are up soon, good luck to you!
On March 1, 2012...
I just have one thing to say...you are my hero and your friendship means the world to me. You sound great, love and hugs!!
Linda Dixon
Mitch Friedman You are my hero. Your courage and constant support for everyone on this site is an inspiration. We ... Read more
Mitch Friedman You are my hero. Your courage and constant support for everyone on this site is an inspiration. We are all better off because of you and your involvement. We are now here for YOU. and you will do great.
On March 1, 2012...
Hey Mitch That is great news. I like the way you think about being reborn. I kinda look at it that way. Cause if we didnt do this I know what would happen, so these doctors are making us all new again. Just remember now you are fixed and your life will be better cause you dont have to worry about your problem. I'm glad you are here for support but I have to say the same thing to you. Thank you for all your support. Please dont go any where. Oh and I walked 3 times today and I didn't take the dog. After reading about Kelly I was a little upset so thought I would go for a walk and talked to the neighbor and told her the news. So over a cup of coffee and good conversation it helped. Then the whole neighborhood well us girls went walking after dinner. It was so beautiful today and 78. Well talk later
For the long haul
Linda H
Mitch Friedman Thank you Linda. I know you are not up yet, but I think it is great how consistent you are in helpin ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thank you Linda. I know you are not up yet, but I think it is great how consistent you are in helping all of us. We wil be here for you when you get the nod that "it's time."
On March 1, 2012...
You give me a lot of hope for my future surgery(when? I don't know) I loved reading all your entries. I'm so happy that your surgery and post surgery have gone well. By the way, you mentioned Kelly. What happened? the last thing I heard is what Adam Pick sent out about 11/2 weeks ago.
Carol J
Mitch Friedman Glad to know my HVJ is a help to others. Thanks Carol! By now I assume you read Adam's blog about K ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Glad to know my HVJ is a help to others. Thanks Carol! By now I assume you read Adam's blog about Kelly. If not, details are there.
On March 1, 2012...
Just read your update. You must be the poster child of recovery in NY. I was told "I" was the poster child of recovery in Illinois. lol. I knew you'd do fine. You had attitude going in and that is key. I'm so happy you are well. I am not as deep as you, shallow me...I have found my rebirth consists of not wanting to waste one day with people who are not excited about living. If crazy comes walking...I cross the street now. lol. I feel good but sad that I can't kayak this spring, told possible late summer. Can we go zip lining? I love doing that on vacations. Can we ride the roller coaster? Am I doomed to wearing New Balance gym shoes? I did not ask these key questions. Janis Kielbasa
Mitch Friedman Plenty of room for all of us on those posters. I got a great laugh from post your. hey, there is cr ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Plenty of room for all of us on those posters. I got a great laugh from post your. hey, there is crazy coming, let's cross the street. Excpet in NYC, crazy is everywhere!!!!! Keep up the good recovery work.
On March 1, 2012...
Loved that post Mitch. I have had very similar thoughts and have found myself getting angry at myself sometimes when it feels I am slipping back into my "old" self. Nothing bad but like you said, this is my chance to really improve and I am determined to do so.
You have been a true blessing to so many on here and have made a much larger impact that you may realize. Keep up the great work in your recovery too and soon you will join the Has Been Club.
Peace my friend...
JH Mattingly
Mitch Friedman I always appreciate your comments JH. I too am determined to improve my life. But like with recover ... Read more
Mitch Friedman I always appreciate your comments JH. I too am determined to improve my life. But like with recovery, I need to be patient as things don't always happen overnight. All we can do is be mindful of that goal and keep striving towards it.
Also, thanks for your comments about the impact I have made. It is humbling and rewarding to know my HVJ has helped others.
Stay strong brother!
On February 26, 2012...
Ok. So talked about you at dinner. One of our condo neighbors is your NYC neighbor. Is t that strange. ?? Small small world !
Doing good . Not walking as much as u but u r one week ahead of me. I'll get there !
Amazing when folks ask me how I am I have stop and be sure they mean me. Isn't that fun. Who woulda thought ? Glad your doing so well. When do u go back to work ? Too soon now I now. Just curious. Hugs. Nancy Friedman. ! St Louis mo
Mitch Friedman Glad you are doing well non cuz. I hope FLA is treating you well. Stay strong, you are doing great. ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Glad you are doing well non cuz. I hope FLA is treating you well. Stay strong, you are doing great.
On February 26, 2012...
Hey Mitch,
Glad that you are doing so good, keep up the good work, it is 14 weeks post op for me, hardly no one ask me how I am doing, these days, I guess that is good. LOL, it is almost like a forgotten operation I went through. This will be a GREAT year for so many of us, and a year to count our BLESSINGS. Take care stay strong and run the good race, Jim
Mitch Friedman Thank Jim. Yes, it will be a great year. I am continuing to work it hard and rest when necessary. ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thank Jim. Yes, it will be a great year. I am continuing to work it hard and rest when necessary. You stay strong too.
On February 26, 2012...
Hi Mitch,
Congrats on the 18:30 mile! It's a blessing that you're doing this well. You need to tell me your route so that I can follow it when I get out of Mount Sinai hospital next month .... My plan is to join you a few days after my surgery ..... Jim Smith
Mitch Friedman Yeah Jim!!!! That's the attitude to take going into this. How quickly can I recover???? Well, the ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Yeah Jim!!!! That's the attitude to take going into this. How quickly can I recover???? Well, the REAL answer is as quickly as your body will allow you. Don't push it, listen to your body, and recovery will go just fine. Let's try to meet when you get to NYC
On February 25, 2012...
Hey Mitch, Well three cheers to you. Enjoyed reading all of your blogs and got me to thinking. After being there for Stephanies surgery and seeing what went on there, and seeing what is happening to me got me to thinking. I havent even gone thru all of this yet and some of my family is doing the same thing.With 4 kids that I raised and only 2 really care really hurts. But you know what? I have all of my new friends on HJV and my church family, sons family and of course Stephanie. I am not going to worryabout the rest of them. There day will come,Enough said about that.
I am so glad you are doing so good. I enjoy reading what you put in here. I always go to look to see what Mitch has done today. It keeps my going. And I am glad that Jimmy finally got back to us all. I told him I was thinking about where he went and I am impressed.Well talk to ya later friend.
For the long haul
Linda H
Mitch Friedman Thanks so much Linda for all your encouraging words. It is great you are staying on HVJ, even though ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks so much Linda for all your encouraging words. It is great you are staying on HVJ, even though you still have some time. And when your time comes, you will be ready.
I am lucky to be doing so well, but still have days where I need to take it easy. All part of recovery. As to the other stuff, all we can do is focus on surrounding ourselves with postive energy. Anyone who does not have is not welcome into the inner circle. That is what you need to do when it is your time. Then once you are through, you can decided your next steps, or not, if you know what I mean.
Made it 2 miles today on my AM walk!
On February 24, 2012...
Thanks. Your post helped. :) Janis K.
Mitch Friedman I will always try to help, just as you would do for me. One day at a time, my friend. Hope you get ... Read more
Mitch Friedman I will always try to help, just as you would do for me. One day at a time, my friend. Hope you get some rest after the shower today (Sunday).
On February 24, 2012...
Hey Mitch. As other posters have said, other folks just don't "get it". You've looked deep into the abyss and dealt with the end of your life if you didn't do something huge. Not many get that "opportunity". You faced it with wisdom, courage, grace and love. And now you are different from them. -- DVB
Mitch Friedman Thanks DVB. I see that now, but sure was an eye opener on Thursday. I will conyinue to focus on liv ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks DVB. I see that now, but sure was an eye opener on Thursday. I will conyinue to focus on living my life better, I can't control what anyone else does with their life.
BTW, recovery is back on track now. Getting stronger daily. Take care brother.
On February 23, 2012...
Hey Mitch,
Thanks for sharing your experience. I followed your case with interest, as we have some similarities. I'm very fit for my 55 years and am in 'wait and watch' mode, after blunt force trauma 2 years ago resulted in severe aortic regurgitation (and a heck of a diastolic murmur), followed by an enlarged left ventricle to help compensate (just below the threshold, 'need surgery' size). But I'm still very exercise tolerant so I'm told it's not time now, but it's not 'if', but when I need aortic valve replacement.
It was very reassuring to see how quickly you've bounced back from major surgery. Way to go! Thanks for being a great role model for those of us that have open heart surgery in our future! I will aspire to match your pace for recovery when my day comes.
Mitch Friedman Yes, knowing the day is coming helps us get prepared. However, when they say "it's time" it is still ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Yes, knowing the day is coming helps us get prepared. However, when they say "it's time" it is still a shocker. At least you are doing your research now. Good luck to you, glad I could help in some way.
On February 23, 2012...
Mitch,
Re., the Feb 23rd post:
HORSE-HOCKEY - Keep on posting, bud.
1) Those that follow in your tracks need to know what to expect and anticipate and deal.
2) Those of us who get sucked down into the mule muffins of everyday living need to be reminded of the miracle that you just experienced, (A) So we can empathize and support you; and (B) So we can remind ourselves not to get harangued into the cesspool aspects of life but to step above and grab some gusto, hourly, as possible. That's what your posting do for US.
3) It's got to be therapeutic for you; keep on writing (and if you don't we're going to make you open a Facebook account).
Are you going to choose water over wine? Grab the wheel, Mitch, and drive....that's all courtesy of Incubus - listen to this; listen to the lyrics.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=-REi5Bjdie0
- Poly
Mitch Friedman Thanks my friend. Your comments and support are always appreciated.
On February 23, 2012...
Hi Mitch,
Prior to my surgery, I had several individuals say they would check on me and visit me. So, it was a surprise after the surgery when I only heard from some of them occasionally and others not at all, and actually had only one visitor during the 7 weeks of my recovery while I was staying in town with my son. People just get wrapped up in their lives and don't realize the miracle we have gone through. But then, I was surprised by some of the people who visited me while I was in the hospital and heard from other folks who checked on me regularly afterwards that I had not expected to see or hear from at all. I also have to admit that on occasion I have behaved in a similar manner when I knew people were going through serious illnesses or other issues.
I have noticed that there is now much more interaction among people here in the HVJ than I experienced when I first joined up before my surgery. At least for me, maybe others were and I was just out of the loop. I used this website to post what was going on to whoever was interested in keeping up with me. However, that has changed for me now. I have really enjoyed communicating with other people in the HVJ as time has passed.
We have experienced remarkable experiences in our surgeries even though others might not realize or appreciate it. But I think most people have difficult issues to deal with and that we have no clue about what they are experiencing.
I am not sure that I have made any sense here, just kind of vented a bit myself.
You are doing well and have added a lot to this website by discussing your experiences and feelings. Many of us have experienced somewhat similar experiences and feelings, we just have not expressed them.
Take care (remember the tortoise beat the hare)!
John Lund
Mitch Friedman Thanks so much John. I found your posts insightful and helpful. I agree it is interesting, funny, w ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thanks so much John. I found your posts insightful and helpful. I agree it is interesting, funny, wierd to see who "showed up" and who "did not." For me, some of those hurt, others were just interesting. But, hey, it is what it is. Lots of people have lots going on and as you put it, just don't deal well with these types of things.
Anyway, your words of encourgement for my posts are greatly appreciated. I am always wihing you the very best. Take care John.
On February 23, 2012...
Mitch,
You've just gotten to experience how people are so wrapped up in their own lives that they don't have the ability to recognize miracles.
Remember, you cannot soar with eagles if you hang out with the turkeys.
Soar my friend, Soar!
Chuck Holmgreen.
Mitch Friedman So true Chuck. I am hanging with the eagles lately and soaring when I can. And when my body grounds ... Read more
Mitch Friedman So true Chuck. I am hanging with the eagles lately and soaring when I can. And when my body grounds me, I just nap and then soar again!
On February 23, 2012...
Mitch, you are truly an inspiration. I am yet to have the same surgery, and you are helping me face the facts everyday! Most people have a weird reaction before the surgery(HORRIFIED!) now I know it will be just as weird after surgery.
You are doing great with your recovery!
Mitch Friedman Yes, unfortunately, many people just can't deal with this, before, during or after. I found they do ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Yes, unfortunately, many people just can't deal with this, before, during or after. I found they do take cues from how you present it. I tended to tell people it was HUGE, but I had a top surgeon who made it routine. An oxy moron, but it helped people stick around me when they struggled with my situation. Good luck.
On February 23, 2012...
Mitch
I understand completely. People who haven't been through this have no idea. You are doing so good, Your so positive. Thank you for sharing so much of your emotions. You're an inspiration!! Keep up the good work.. all of us who have been through it and that are going to go through it soon are so proud of you!
Jamie McGuire
Mitch Friedman Thank you Jamie. It does get hard sometimes, but my HVJ family sure does help. I can't thank all of ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thank you Jamie. It does get hard sometimes, but my HVJ family sure does help. I can't thank all of you enough.
On February 23, 2012...
Well pooh on everybody! (except your wife).
You are my hero and I think you are WONDERFUL!! Now...feel better?? :-)
REALLY getting closer...Linda
Mitch Friedman You always make me fell better. Thanks friend!
On February 23, 2012...
It is impossible for them (the people at school) to have any idea what you have been through. Everyone is so engrossed in what they're doing, what needs to happen next and how they will survive their own little dramas. The roller coaster they are on is never ending.
If they could stop the coaster and look up from their lives, they would surely say WOW you are amazing, and they would be right. Not just for surviving this incredible ordeal, i.e., overcoming the fear and fighting through the pain but for the integrity, courage and, dare I say, heart you brought to this whole experience.
This thing would crush most peopleāespecially the ones āat schoolāāthey would never be the same again. You, however, will be better in many ways and that my friend is saying something.
Mitch Friedman The big guy! Blue line...score! Thanks for the great comment!!!!!! One of my favs.
On February 23, 2012...
Mitch,
I remember feeling the same way when I started getting out and about. Except for my family and close friends, people didn't even acknowlege I had been "to hell and back", as you put it. Get used to it. People just don't get it and never will unless they have to go through it themselves. That's why the heart valve journals are so great.....EVERYONE on here gets it!
Glad you are doing so well. It truly is an amazing, overwhelming and humbling experience.
Deb Ziegler
Mitch Friedman So well put Deb. Thanks so much for your comments. No way anyone else can ever grasp all we have be ... Read more
Mitch Friedman So well put Deb. Thanks so much for your comments. No way anyone else can ever grasp all we have been though. That is why I cherish this site and my HVJ family. You all get it and are so there for me. Thank you and everyone else, so very much!
On February 23, 2012...
You is kind, You is smart, You is important. Okay, so I stole it from movie, "The Help". LOL. Seriously, you are doing amazing at 3 weeks, and I think that makes others think we are 100%. I am doing so well for 7 1/2 weeks, everything is expected from me...like I didn't just have open heart surgery. If we were dragging our feet, IV in hand, people would give us more sympathy. Face it, Mitch, we just look to damn good! LOL. And per pajama day...that is to be expected. I can't get dressed, walk or do much today. I'm giving myself permission to do nothing. I think its my body saying, Hey, I need to heal. Rest is part of the healing process. Just keep doing what you are doing, keep healing. You are on the right path. And if you need a smack upside the head, I say to your wife...do it. Cheer up, Charlie. I stole that from Charlie & Chocolate Factory. Janis Kielbasa
Mitch Friedman Oh great, encouraging my wife to smack me upside my head, I thought you were my friend. Trust me, sh ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Oh great, encouraging my wife to smack me upside my head, I thought you were my friend. Trust me, she does NOT need that enouragement :-).
Thanks for your comments my friend, they are ALWAYS helpful. Ye,s we need to work recovery hard, and rest often as needed. Take care.
On February 23, 2012...
Mitch :
Your health is dramatically improved over where you were prior to the operation.
Although the recovery is difficult and frustrating, everyday is a GREAT DAY.
Keep up the good work. Every Great DAY will be exceeded by the next one.
Looking forward to your return. Just be patient and only come back when you're up to it.
Best wishes.
Warren
Mitch Friedman As always Warren, many thanks for your supportive comments. I won't be back before I am ready, much ... Read more
Mitch Friedman As always Warren, many thanks for your supportive comments. I won't be back before I am ready, much to the chagrin on the corner office, I am sure.....
On February 23, 2012...
Mitch,
I will miss your journal, but you have graduated and now you must continue to take care of yourself, be conscious of what you eat and protect that heart. Sign up for rehab even though you are walking at least a mile a day. You will exercise, and they check your vitals.You will meet other people who have also gotten a second chance. Be well and good luck.
It will be three years for me in April, the 17th to be exact, and I am 76 and swim four days a week. Sylvia
Mitch Friedman Thanks Sylvia, great words of advice. Also great you are doing so well. Keep it up! All the best.
On February 23, 2012...
Hi Mitch, Well I told you I was here for a while to cheer everyone on until my day of whenever so here is my cheers. Three cheers to your wife lol. That was so funny. You must be a hoot to be around never a dull moment type guy? I enjoy reading your journals and what you send to me. It means a lot.Walks are good. I kinda cheated myself today by taking my dog for a walk. She was fine until we meant the neghbors dog in the neighborhood and that is a no no. You take care and no more desks. Guess you will be seeing Chris pretty soon. Tell him I said hi. Until Later
For the long haul Linda H
Mitch Friedman Thanks Linda. Tell your dog, your the boss, and stay away from the neighbors house......
On February 23, 2012...
Great post Mitch, as always. Keep up the good work.
On February 22, 2012...
Hi Mitch, I enjoy reading your posts. I can so relate to what you are experiencing with your recovery, it just lets me know that I am on the right track. I have back pain, back spasms and yes valium is my friend too. I have no pain from the surgical site, thank God for the robotic minimally invasic approach. I haven't started my mini walks yet. But I know it will do me a lot of good.
Take care,
Carmen
Mitch Friedman So great to hear from you Carmen, I was thinking about you and planned to post on your HVJ. Sounds li ... Read more
Mitch Friedman So great to hear from you Carmen, I was thinking about you and planned to post on your HVJ. Sounds like we are sharing much of the same experience, at least with the back :-(. Mine is much better now. Still pretty sore, but no more spasms, or Valium.
Try to start your walking, even if it is very short at first. Maybe go for like 25-50 feet. I think you will find it really helps everything. My doc told me spasms were as much from not enough movement as anything else. Though it was painful, and mind boggling, he advised me to stretch and move around. I did and it help. So, try to walk a little each day if you can.
Good luck to you my friend!
On February 22, 2012...
Hi Mitch- I saw your post on Travis's page about working out. I would like to know what your surgeon said about post Surgical exercise? I was an avid soccer player (90min games fast-paced) and a runner. You think lll be able at some point?
Mitch Friedman There is no doubt you will be back to 100%, the question is when. I have been told nothing but walki ... Read more
Mitch Friedman There is no doubt you will be back to 100%, the question is when. I have been told nothing but walking until 6 weeks out. Can start to pick up the intensity then and no restrictions at 8 weeks. So for now I walk.
Interesting data point for you. One surgeon I met, was way into exercise. We bonded on that. He invited me to run the NYC marathon with him and a group of his patients in November, after having my surgery in February (so, 9 months after surgery). He said I would easily be ready for it.
So, be patient during recovery, don't rush things, but know at some point post surgery, you will be kicking butt on the soccer field again. No doubt. Good luck.
On February 22, 2012...
OK buddy. 1.3 miles earlier today, and on Travis' journal I see another mile later in the day. We are going to admit you into monster status pretty soon if you keep it up! -- DVB
Mitch Friedman Wait a second, talk about monster status, just saw your post on Travis' HVJ. You are the monster my ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Wait a second, talk about monster status, just saw your post on Travis' HVJ. You are the monster my friend, very impressive!!!
On February 21, 2012...
I am sooo proud of you. I knew you could do it and do it well. We are going to enjoy every minute ahead of us knowing that we got a second chance. I can relate to that great feeling you are feeling. Remember to take good care of yourself. You are still really early in your recovery. I know that somewhere around the third week for me, I just knew I was really on the mend.
Jane
Mitch Friedman Thank you my dear friend. You put it very well, I am just feeling like I am really on the mend. Gre ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Thank you my dear friend. You put it very well, I am just feeling like I am really on the mend. Great feeling indeed.
I am pushing it and also taking it easy. I am being smart about all of this. Don't want no rematch. Just want to recover. Be well!
On February 21, 2012...
Hey my friend...you sound great!!! I am so impressed! You are my inspiration! You will be "back to normal" in no time.
I am doing pretty well, have had 2 unemotional days in a row, so that's good. Just had my recliner delivered, not sure I like it, it's not nearly as comfortable as my old "manual" recliner, but it will stand me up if I need it to. Just hope it doesn't throw me!! Willie, the chihuahua doesn't like it, lol, so that's a good thing, don't have to worry about him jumping into my lap!
So, I'm in wait mode. Keep up the "I'm doing great" posts. Makes my day!
REALLY getting closer...Linda Dixon
Mitch Friedman Hey, isn't this all about Willie anyway. I mean come on, we all know he is actually doing all the ty ... Read more
Mitch Friedman Hey, isn't this all about Willie anyway. I mean come on, we all know he is actually doing all the typing and posting. Well, Willie, slow down. Give Linda big hugs and let her know we are very proud of her and her progress. Unemotional days are key, as are the emotional ones. Just take them as they come. You are getting close and you can do this. For sure!
On February 21, 2012...
Mitch,
Great post, today. Glad to hear the upbeat tone and optimism.
You're not ready for this tempo, but soon, play this in your Sony Walk-Man during your walks and you'll step lively. PLUS, she's got inspiring lyrics! Great musician's name, to boot, Carolyn Wonderland. Enjoy!
- Poly
Mitch Friedman Will check her out. Thanks Bro, for everything!
On February 21, 2012...
I'm flying with my non cuz The best yet to come!!
Mitch Friedman Yes, the best is yet to come! See you soaring in the clouds! Thanks Non Cuz.
On February 21, 2012...
Very encouraging words my friend. I'm so happy you're healing and maintain that positivity -- it gives us all hope. I'm 2 days from flying to NYC and am going through so many different emotions. I will be healing with you very soon and will then help others as you are.
Thanks for being there Mitch.
- Chris Dixon
Mitch Friedman One day at a time. Soon, the eery calm will settle in and then you know you will be truly ready. Un ... Read more
Mitch Friedman One day at a time. Soon, the eery calm will settle in and then you know you will be truly ready. Until then, laugh, cry, whatever you need. See you in NYC soon.
On February 20, 2012...
Mitch, you are doing fantastic! 2 miles walking a day. Keep working it, a bit at a time and before you know it you'll be breaking into a trot. The exercise accelerates healing as long as you don't overdo it, and the way to not overdo it is to just extend by a little each time so any complaints your body has will be minor. Take care, my man -- DVB
Mitch Friedman As always, great advice DVB. I made a big jump today. Increased distance to 1.5 miles in AM (from 1 ... Read more
Mitch Friedman As always, great advice DVB. I made a big jump today. Increased distance to 1.5 miles in AM (from 1.3 yesterday), but in the PM took a brisk walk and turned out I did a mile in 20 minutes. Prior my pace was 28 minutes. Yikes! Was not paying attention, just walking....
So, will be interesting to see how I feel tomorrow. Thanks for all your support.
On February 20, 2012...
Well...I just might need to drop Nikki a line or two...hmmmmm...give her a little warning in case she hasn't been reading the journals. I think everyone deserves a chance to prepare for you, lol. I'm going to write in my journal a little later, have had a lot going on this weekend, all good, but I will let you know, I finally decided to bite the bullet and bought me a fuel injected, automatic ejection seat lift recliner today. I already have 2 very comfortable recliners, but they may be a little difficult to get out of, so I decided to go ahead and get Nancy off my back, lol. (just kidding, but she said to splurge on myself). Glad you are still doing better and better. Keep it up!