Karen Ridgway (mum to Adriana, two years on from AVR) posted a note for Rachel that says:
Thanks for the update. Praying and hoping for the sickness to abate and that Rachel gets the sleep she so needs.
Fab news about her physical recovery. Continued prayers for Rachel and you all. God Bless xxxx
On January 17, 2014...
Linda Johnson posted a note for Rachel that says:
You are a hero, a fighter, and deserve to feel all your emotions...positive and negative. Your trials have been an inspiration to all. You must know that all in this site love you. Amazing.
On January 17, 2014...
Peter and Nancy posted a note for Rachel that says:
If you have them available, let he nurses give you something for sleep.
We watch for updates every day, and think of you often. Take care and keep your chin up!
On January 17, 2014...
Joanne posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hello Rachel & Family, I've been following your heart journey, and while my experience is as a mitral valve repair patient, I REALLY identify with your sleep problem! It was the worst part of my own recovery. I literally forgot how to sleep. I was unable to close my eyes, and if, by some stroke of luck, they did shut and I dozed off, it was never for more than 5 or 10 minutes at a stretch. And the more I didn't sleep, the more I worried about not sleeping. It's a vicious vicious cycle!
I finally relented and took sleeping pills that totally knocked me out. I should have taken them sooner, because they were the only thing that helped retrain my mind and body how to sleep.
So that's my Two Cents on the subject . . . along with cheers to you for all you have accomplished so far, and will accomplish in the future!
On January 17, 2014...
Heidi - MV repair posted a note for Rachel that says:
I remember wishing I could sleep through the night. It was about 2 weeks before I was able to sleep 6 hours at one time. Not sure of the reason but looking back I think it might have been the pain killers. I remember a feeling of a kind of panic that would keep me from falling asleep. Not that I was fearful but almost a physical reaction to the sensation of dozing off. The good news is the more physically active you become the better you will feel. I too have a small frame and had to force myself to eat. Try to eat some home cooked meals, that's what finally worked for me. It took me about 6 weeks to not feel frail and I was very symptomatic before my unplanned surgery. It does get better quickly after the first few weeks. Stay strong, it will get better soon!
On January 17, 2014...
Karen Ridgway (mum to Adriana, two years on from AVR) posted a note for Rachel that says:
What lovely, happy news to wake up to today. Once the nausea is sorted then Rachel's appetite should return (Adriana loves reece cakes and pop tarts too!). Once the sleep is sorted Rachel's energy will start to return also. Rachel, you are doing so well and I am glad that sharing stories from other OHS patients is helping. Adriana also had restless legs which drove her crazy too. Not great, but normal and NORMAL is soooo good. God Bless brave girl. PS so glad mum and dad got a good night's sleep xxxx
On January 16, 2014...
Sharon M posted a note for Rachel that says:
It is so exciting to hear that your new heart is taking care of you. Rachel you and your family's strength have been and continue to be inspirational to so many. God Bless.
On January 16, 2014...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Rachel that says:
Woohoo! Rachel kicking some butt!! Big hugs for all of you. Take it slow and heal well. Eat what you can. Gotta have nutrition to heal.
Lotsa love.
Your biggest fan---
On January 16, 2014...
Claire Percival and Family xxxxxxxx posted a note for Rachel that says:
Bless you and your new heart and your wonderful family, im hoping and praying for a good nights sleep for you tonight Roochie, everything will feel better come the morning time, sleep well pretty lady and have sweet dreams, love you lots and so so glad that you are feeling a little better day by day, as soon as you are up for it, i shall bring you a HUGE stash of Reece's cups (if you still like them!) pop tarts and lots of yummy delicious things for your tummy. Love you lots
On January 16, 2014...
Jim Jones posted a note for Rachel that says:
Peter
So glad you folks got some rest. Rach, I hope you can get some sleep. I am so proud of how you have handled everything. I know you are getting adjusted to your new heart. Keep up the wonderful work. I look forward to your first post following surgery. Who knows, perhaps Miss Vicki will spring for another gold star!
On January 16, 2014...
Rebecca mckeown posted a note for Rachel that says:
Apologies for typing mistakes like should have said that I remember saying bye to my sons xxx
On January 16, 2014...
Rebecca MCKEOWN posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hi Rachel me again, thought I'd give you my tip for a good scar this time ! Bio oil is great then baby oil in the bath when you get home and dove natural sun tan moisturiser to look a bit healthier . Is love to chat to you once you are able over a coffee or whatever , I'm not the expert at all but having been critically ill and having said goodbye to my two dons and mum and da before undergoing my last heart operation I can really feel what you have gone through and are still going through . As a parent myself I can't imagine how your parents have coped and I'm sure it will be hard for them to unwrap you from the cottonwool over the nextonths and years but please be patient as they obviously adore you as does Vicki and Lawson and the new bond you all now have will never be broken and will kick in if you ever need their support in illness again as I've found out on numerous occasions as my mum dad and I have an amazing bond and I'm so proud of them for the way they are as parents and feel so blessed xxx
Much love to you all
Hope we can be friends x
On January 16, 2014...
Andy binns xxx posted a note for Rachel that says:
Love and prayers for rachal and all the family what a brave girl you will get there love praying daily
On January 15, 2014...
Rebecca MCKEOWN posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hi again Rachel, restless legs can be horrible tonic water can help as I've found myself , try an relax and have a small nap in the morning then. Another after lunch . I found listening to music helped xxx my counsellor taught me how to go to sleep and it really works xx when I see you I can teach you too if ud like xx
Still praying all the time x
Love
Rebecca
On January 15, 2014...
Paul R posted a note for Rachel that says:
Vicki you are a wonderful big sis..
Rach lots of little cat naps...;-))
On January 15, 2014...
Jackie posted a note for Rachel that says:
Bless her new heart, restless legs is not fun! More prayers for Rachael.
Jackie
USA
On January 15, 2014...
Susan Smith posted a note for Rachel that says:
It is good thing that Rachel is young and determined, because someone my age would not do well with only 2 hours sleep. I am so glad she is physically recovering on schedule, but will pray for her emotional and spiritual side to be lifted up. Please everyone else get your rest and keep your spirits up. Love the Gold stars. They are all well earned. Love to all
On January 15, 2014...
Gabi x posted a note for Rachel that says:
All sounds perfectly natural and normal to me given what Rachel has been through. Just all hang five - like riding a surfboard in a king tide. Many ups downs and spills. Exhausting work! Lie on the sand and rest in between rides. You all need it! My love & prayers in abundance for you all.
On January 15, 2014...
holly arnold posted a note for Rachel that says:
Restless legs are terrible; continuing to pray for her peace and rest! Lifting you up to our Father on heaven!
Best
Holly
On January 15, 2014...
Paul R posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rach, fantastic to hear that your physical side is on the up, it's a foundation on which you can then build and then get your emotions back on track too. Easy to say, hard to do, but given what you have been through there is light at the end of your tunnel, it's not a train or the doctor's building more tunnel this time!
Lawson, Rach will be incredibly low and lash out, unfortunately it's just part of the process and all you and we can do is to continue to offer the best support we can. It is really much harder to watch. I remember the apparent amplification of the highs and lows indeed getting really low (in tears for the first time after surgery - not a manly man) and lashing out my wife and a junior doctor who stayed well away from me for the rest of my stay after she suggest I needed a pacemaker implanted. Nothing compared to what Rach have been through, but it gave me something to release my anger. I did get over it and 18 months later, time has flown and it is a distant memory as it will be for Rach. Please make sure you and all your family get some rest, med (legal ones of course) assisted if necessary - with rest you will be able to handle the ups and downs a little easier
All the best
On January 15, 2014...
Helen (TM) posted a note for Rachel that says:
Brilliant to hear of Rachel's progress so far.
Rachel - keep going. You've done an amazing job so far and everybody is incredibly proud of you. Keep your eye on the end goal and get home knowing you have the utmost support from all your family, friends and colleagues. We are all rooting for you! We can't wait to see you again soon.
On January 15, 2014...
Sara Evans posted a note for Rachel that says:
Fantastic to read the good news.
Everyone has obvioulsy prayed sooooo much that God has finally listened and realised that Rachel, family and friends have been through far too much and that shes has so much life left to live its time to give this girl a break.
Rachel has been through so much that her emotions and moods will swing but rumour has it women do that lol.
Well done Rachel all the waiting has finally paid off. Youre finally riding the road to recovery
Love to all involved
Sara @ Prime Time
On January 15, 2014...
Karen Ridgway (mum to Adriana, two years on from AVR) posted a note for Rachel that says:
Fantastic news on the physical side! I agree strongly with one of the comments with regard to feeling very low after OHS and especially as Rachel has been 'round the block AND back again'.
Hold onto, and take comfort, from the fact that this is a normal part of the healing process, albeit a very unpleasant one, for Rachel and yourselves. She knows that you are all there for her and have been all the way.
The sun WILL shine soon but in the meantime I hope you can find some peace and relaxation.
Be kind to yourselves, God Bless xxxx
On January 15, 2014...
John Elliott (JP) posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rachel, Lawson & Family,
It is heartwarming to read the positive news so far since the operation. Long may this continue in the coming days, weeks and months.
JP & All at Prime Time
On January 14, 2014...
Marie posted a note for Rachel that says:
Dear Rachel and Family,
Your all in my heart and prayers also. I am so happy for Rachel and you all that she got her new heart and has come so far. I am amazed that she even sat in a chair for 5 minutes never mind 5 hours after all this and then her heart transplant surgery. I will keep you in my prayers that God will continue to give Rachel rest and strength to eat and heal and bring her all the way to victory. Jesus Loves You All.
On January 14, 2014...
Rebecca mckeown posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rachel everything you are feeling is normal , I am sure after a few days of you doing small walks or physio and knowing your heart is coping with it all I'm sure you will start to feel emotionally stronger and let some of your emotional barriers down knowing that life really is getting better and your future with your family and Lawson is going to be good xxxx just take care and I am so happy to read your great updates x
On January 14, 2014...
Tim Ryall posted a note for Rachel that says:
Such great and encouraging news.
Seriously in awe of all of you!!
CSJV
On January 14, 2014...
Gaffers x posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rach!
Sounds like you're rocking the new heart.
I've had a few lung collapses in my time, but it seems they have to collapse yours on purpose when they did the surgery. You must be so much more hardcore than me!
It must be a relief to get rid of those IV's... slowly and steadily on the mend :)
On January 14, 2014...
Rebecca Roberts posted a note for Rachel that says:
Depression is very common after open heart surgery, with a number of suspected causes.
Rachel has certainly experienced so much more physical and emotional stress than the typical OHS patient.
Does the hospital have a psychologist or social worker available to provide Rachel with counseling?
On January 14, 2014...
Phil and Sharon posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rachel we are all loving you,praying for you, and thinking of you. Thank you Lawson for your update, even though it's a long road ahead there is now hope for you all.
On January 13, 2014...
Karen Ridgway (mum to Adriana, two years on from AVR) posted a note for Rachel that says:
Thank you for the update Peter. It is amazing that Rachel has sat in her chair for 5 hours even if it was required of her to do so. No wonder she is tired, emotional and overwhelmed with everything. As a parent my heart goes out to you. I remember the emotional side being so difficult when Adriana was afraid or distressed.
I pray that you all managed to get a refreshing night's sleep and that Rachel continues to improve on a daily basis.
Keep going Rachel, so, so, so very nearly there. God Bless xxxx
On January 13, 2014...
Ann Jackson posted a note for Rachel that says:
I still continue to be amazed and full of admiration for all of you as you have dealt with a devastating two months. The prayers have been unceasing and will continue to be as Rachel recovers and gains strength and confidence. I can't imagine what she must be feeling and how incredibly tough it has been for all of you.
God is with you and will see to your every need.
Much love
On January 13, 2014...
Jim Jones posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hang in there, Peter. You all need some rest and I hope you get it tonight. It's been an exceptionally high mountain to climb for all of you. I suspect Rach continues to process the latest events and to get used to her new heart. She will move forward with a strong spirit. My best to you all.
On January 13, 2014...
Glenys posted a note for Rachel that says:
We prayed in our home group tonight for all of you. We'd been looking at Abigail, a woman of determination, stength and courage, all of which you lot have in shed loads! We asked God to give Rachel peace and a good sleep and for you to be courageous enough to stand back and let her rest at appropriate times. So easy to say, so hard to do. So from the Monday Evening House Group-we love you and we're rooting for you!
On January 13, 2014...
Linda H AV SC USA posted a note for Rachel that says:
To Peter: I know exactly how you feel having been thru this with my Dad and Daughter. But you have had this double from the rest of us. Remember Rachel just went thru another major surgery in a very short time not to mention the smaller ones she went thru. Right now she is still coming off the anthiestic (sp),that takes awhile to wear off. It sound like she is doing really good and will have a full and wonderful life ahead of her. God the doctors and nurses are all taking really good care of her.Each day will be a little better. You and the family take care and get rest for yourself cause Rachel will be needing you shortly. Hugs to all.
On January 13, 2014...
Rebecca Mckeown posted a note for Rachel that says:
I think that as children we take our frustrations and anger out on those we love the most as they will love us no matter what so maybe today because of her tiredness and the stress Rachel is trying to take a bit of control and it's the only way she can at the moment is by being asleep and recharging her sel or by being a little stroppy at those people she really wants to stick by her , I know I certainly have at points in my life , Rachrl will in sure be a lot more settled after a good sleep that will reassure her that her body will wake up and that she can trust it to work xx
Be strong Rachel and give plenty cuddles to your mum dad sister and boyfriend they love you unconditionally I'm very sure as foes God I'm sure xxx
On January 13, 2014...
Helen Hodge x posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hang on in there Peter, Rachel is just trying to cope in her own way, but she still needs you all so much. So pleased all has gone so well so far xx
On January 13, 2014...
Helen & Martin Leefe xx posted a note for Rachel that says:
Dear Rachel,
We really hope that you are feeling better today and the emotions encountered yesterday were normal and perfectly understandable considering the challenges you have faced.
The great news of a successful heart transplant is wonderful and we wanted to share the below article with you from the NHS Choices website of another positive story. There are lots of others too...
'I returned to work as a gardener 13 weeks after the transplant'
In 1998, Andy Cook was told he had just two days to live, but when a donor heart became available, a transplant saved his life. He now works full time in an outdoor job he loves and travels the world to meet other transplant recipients.
Andy, from Halesowen in the Midlands, was 37 when he developed cardiomyopathy, a disease that causes the heart to become enlarged.
“I had a cough that my doctor couldn’t cure and, after several visits, I became more and more short of breath,” Andy says. “I was admitted to the Wordsley Hospital in Stourbridge, where I was diagnosed as having fluid on the chest that was affecting my heart. A little later, I was told I had cardiomyopathy.”
Six days after he was admitted to hospital, Andy had two heart attacks. He was treated, but his condition got worse and he was sent to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for transplant assessment. He was told by his consultant that a transplant was needed. He was put on the transplant list and sent back to the Wordsley to wait.
“Over the next few weeks, my condition worsened and the need for a donor heart became more desperate. My weight plunged from 11 stone to just 7.”
With time running out, a donor heart became available and Andy was transferred back to Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
“The last thing I remember before the operation was the needle being put into the back of my hand. When I woke up, I was being transferred from intensive care to a ward after two days of sedation.”
Bit by bit, Andy regained his strength, but his journey back to health had some setbacks.
“After I had been allowed home, I spent the next six weeks back in and out of hospital with rejection, a stomach problem, a collapsed lung and another related problem. I finally came out of hospital the week before Christmas 1998 and returned to work as a gardener 13 weeks after the transplant.
“I genuinely believe that if you follow medical advice, you will be back to your previous fitness and way of life. I am very grateful for all the help and treatment I received.”
You have such wonderful support around you and we're here for the duration Rach! Look forward to seeing you soon.
We believe the Ticker Club did well in raising funds for its Christmas prize draw following some donated gifts including ours (heart shaped, of course!).
Much love & blessings,
On January 13, 2014...
Brian Walsh posted a note for Rachel that says:
The last few updates have been great to read and an amazing answer to much prayer by all around her. Continuing much in prayer for her recovery as well as comfort as she continues to deal with it. But not that he is one big God and will meet her needs as he continues to do!
On January 13, 2014...
Tindall and Heather Leefe posted a note for Rachel that says:
Thank you Lawson for Sunday's very full and helpful update on Rachel's condition. Bless her, it must be terrifying to feel she'll die if she lets herself fall asleep. We trust that today, Monday, she will realize that there is no need to fear, and that she will be ready to eat. Enjoy your meals today, Rachel. You and Lawson and all your family are well supported by so many prayers and good wishes worldwide, and so is your heart donor's family - so ENJOY TODAY - IT'S BIG WITH BLESSINGS FOR YOU ALL!
With love
from
Grandpa and Grandma/Tindall and Heather (Leefe).
On January 13, 2014...
Tony Brown posted a note for Rachel that says:
At last, some really good news!!!
Really pleased to hear that things have improved and look forward to Rach getting out.
Tony xxxxx
On January 12, 2014...
Karen Ridgway (mum to Adriana, two years on from AVR) posted a note for Rachel that says:
Thanks for the update. Such great news on Rachel's physical progress and praying that she will get stronger every day.
It would be unthinkable for Rachel not to have been affected in any way emotionally. She has been so strong for so long and so I suppose it was inevitable that the huge impact of what she has endured would hit home at some time. The cocktail of drugs will not help and as I remember myself as a parent the sound of all those machines and the different bleeps can be very scary. Any different sound has you on the end of your seat and fearing the worst. Adriana our daughter could not remember much of her time in IC so it is a testament to how well Rachel is doing.
Sending love and prayers for a calmer day for you all, especially Rachel. God Bless xxxx
On January 12, 2014...
Rebecca Mckeown posted a note for Rachel that says:
I have just woken up and read yesterday's journal and I remember feeling exactly what Rachel is feeling , at one point my mum has to sleep in my room as I too was terrified to go to sleep as I thought I may not wake up , I also at one point was terrified of my room door opening as it could be a doctor with more needles or bad news , bring critically ill with heart surgery worries is frightening and I too lost a lot if weight going from about 8 and a half stone to 5 and a half but once I was home I started to gain weight again . Rachel has to get her head sorted in her own time and way and may be left with scars that will show sometimes as going through what she has been through is huge and affects everything she's ever known . Lawson and her parents have also been on this roller coaster and they too will remember every minute of bad times and be able to fit together the missing pieces for Rachel , counselling is a great thing and learning that it's okay to go to sleep is a reassuring step forward that will happen in time . Gaining confidence on her new heart also will take time I'm sure as it feels like an impossibility that it will work when u have been so ill and walking a few metres is frightening to start with ! Feeling your heart beat to strongly is also a strange feeling to start with as it is so noticeable from a patients point of view so that takes a lot of getting used too also . Anyway all I wanted to say was that everything Rachel is feeling is normal and I'm sure each day will be a new step towards home xx prayers are every minute of every day and I can't wait to see Rachel for myself xx the journal is very welcome every day
Thank you
On January 12, 2014...
from Gabi with love x posted a note for Rachel that says:
Dearest little darling Rachel, no wonder you are having a meltdown after all you have been through, I would be f.r.e.a.k.i.n.g. if I was in your shoes. Never fear when God is near little one. Try not to think too much - like Paul said think of your very favourite place and stay there as long as you need. I am overwhelmed by your absolute courage and determination and feel very proud of you. Do some more Rach, just do some more healing like you have been.
On January 12, 2014...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Rachel that says:
Woohoo!
On January 12, 2014...
Linda H AVR SC USA posted a note for Rachel that says:
Good to hear more good news, espically all the tubes etc being removed. Rachel has been thru so much, it is hard to realize. Right now she has all the drugs from surgery but that will go away to. God is with her and he will get her thru this along with the nurses, who are angels, and doctors, they are Gods little elves. I am so happy for her, I shared In church tonight all the good news and everyone was so happy to hear it. Hope everyone gets much needed rest. Lots of hugs to all.
On January 12, 2014...
holly arnold posted a note for Rachel that says:
Praying for peace and good rest. Rach praying for your fears to be calmed! The Father above is holding you in His hands.
Sincerely
Holly:)
On January 12, 2014...
Susan Smith posted a note for Rachel that says:
Lawson, I want to share with you that our former Vice President Dick Chaney has had new heart surgery and before the surgery he looked gaunt and he had lost a good bit of weight. He is doing fine and has managed to put on some weight. He looks goodl. I tell you this to encourage you. He is in his 70's or 80's and Rachel is young and vibrant. She will come back, especially with the great support team she has in you and her family and friends. We are all still praying and will not stop for I know it is important. Love to all
On January 12, 2014...
Rebecca S. (Austin, Texas) posted a note for Rachel that says:
I can imagine there are so many emotions now, Rachel. So very much to think about and remember after having gone through so much these past weeks. Praying for peace and rest and strength to keep going forward. And the same for the precious donor family. God has done an amazing thing providing this heart for Rachel. He obviously has a wonderful plan for her.
On January 12, 2014...
Jim Jones posted a note for Rachel that says:
This is wonderful news, Lawson. Thank you for the detailed update. I hope Rach can get some rest now. My best.
Fab news about her physical recovery. Continued prayers for Rachel and you all. God Bless xxxx