Jim Jones posted a note for Richard that says:
Richard
Now that is what I call a great diet! I love food so I get it. I think i was born for food. So glad you have a clean bill of health on your arteries. One thing to cross off the list. Have a great meeting tomorrow- you have an excellent surgeon. Best.
Richard Volpe Thanks Jim. Don't forget to much of bad food could kill ya.
All the best,
On December 10, 2013...
Sandy Wummer posted a note for Richard that says:
Richard, sorry about the redo.. 16 weeks ago I had a redo that only lasted 12 weeks! (I got a bad endocarditis infection that ruined the first. I was pretty pissed myself. But after much crying and worry, the second surgery wasn't that bad and I feel grateful we have a "fixable" condition. I pray you do well, and keep posting.
Richard Volpe It really sucks when you have to go through this journey again - I'm so happy everything worked out f ... Read more
Richard Volpe It really sucks when you have to go through this journey again - I'm so happy everything worked out for you.. Thank you Sandy for your kind words.
All the Best,
Richard
On December 10, 2013...
holly arnold posted a note for Richard that says:
Sorry you have to go through the surgery again. Praying for great success!
Best
Holly Arnold :)
Joe and Katie Boehm posted a note for Richard that says:
Hi Rich,
Glad to hear you made it there safely...and still cracking jokes! It's good to see your spirits are up. All the best to you as you go through this process. You, Theresa and they boys are in our thoughts and prayers. Your entire hockey family is thinking of you and wishing you all the best AND a speedy recovery!
Woody & Mickey Malitz posted a note for Richard that says:
Renee,
As a guy that has walked in your shoes, I wish you only the best. You were responsible for me having my valve replacement at CC. I will always be grateful to you for you driving me crazy to go to Cleveland. Second time will be a charm. Good omen Bears maul Cowboys & your boys will bring in a victory Sunday. Best of luick.
The Woodman
Richard Volpe Thank you Woody. All the best to you too.
Go Bears,
On December 10, 2013...
Dan Sinclair posted a note for Richard that says:
Richard,
Thoughts and Prayers will be wth you these following days. Please have a loved one keep us up to date on your progress, I would say if I had to have a redo I would choose where you are and who you are using for your surgeon. I am four weeks post AVR tomorrow and feeling pretty good!
Richard Volpe Thanks Dan. Can we get any better then Dr. Gillinov??? I don't think so. I've been following your pro ... Read more
Richard Volpe Thanks Dan. Can we get any better then Dr. Gillinov??? I don't think so. I've been following your progress, congratulations. I wish you a speedy recovery and I wish I was in Florida right now because it's freezing here in Cleveland.
Thanks
On December 9, 2013...
Marikay posted a note for Richard that says:
Richard will keep you in my prayers! I just know you will be fine....keep in touch...Marikay
Jim Jones posted a note for Richard that says:
Hey Richard
Believe it or not our Bruins were in the Finals. Can you believe it!! On second thought, yeah I bet you can! Congrats!
I had mitral valve surgery on 11/05 at Mount Sinai in NYC. Dr. Adams did the surgery. I have Barlow's disease so it was quite complex. The valve was described as big, ugly and deformed. I am recovering now at home.
My thoughts will be with you the next few days. You have a great hospital and surgeon. Best of success.
Richard Volpe All the best to you too. You also went to a great hospital along with a great Doctor. Your Red Sox h ... Read more
Richard Volpe All the best to you too. You also went to a great hospital along with a great Doctor. Your Red Sox have just sign my favorite catcher AJ. Your going to love him.
On December 9, 2013...
Allyson Manchik posted a note for Richard that says:
Rich,
We wish you all the best! Things just won't be the same without your jokes and laughter! We look forward to your return.
The Manchik Family
Richard Volpe Thank you Allyson. Yes, when I return I will have a couple more jokes for you. I can't promise they ... Read more
Richard Volpe Thank you Allyson. Yes, when I return I will have a couple more jokes for you. I can't promise they will be good but I'll try.
Thanks,
On December 9, 2013...
Jeff, Tara, Jack and Will Oshinski posted a note for Richard that says:
Sending healing vibes from the entire family. Jack says that Uncle Boots has to make his heart feel better so that you can watch Jason play hockey together.
Let us know if there is anything that you need!
Richard Volpe U tell jack no problem I won't let him down. Thanks Tara
On December 9, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Richard that says:
Hey Richard
Best of success to you this week. And, on a lighter note, good luck to the Bears on Sunday. I am from Boston so I watched the Pats-Browns game on TV Sunday.
Real sorry you have to go thru this again. I can tell, however, from reading your posts that you are focused on getting it done. I am trusting that this procedure will deliver the long term results you need. You have a great surgeon. Your age certainly works in your favor for the recovery. Please keep us up date as you are able. My best.
Richard Volpe Thanks for your kind words Jim. I aways like the Pats. One question I have for you is how did your ... Read more
Richard Volpe Thanks for your kind words Jim. I aways like the Pats. One question I have for you is how did your Bruins fair last year in the cup finals? Just kidding! Did u recently have surgery?
Thanks
On December 9, 2013...
jimmy tittjung posted a note for Richard that says:
Love you rich .we are praying for you .
jimmy t
Richard Volpe Love ya to Jim - how's your recovery going good I hope
Thanks,
On December 9, 2013...
The McLaughlins posted a note for Richard that says:
One of the quotes that I like is:" I am weak but my God is strong. I lack many things but I have Him. Though I'm tired, I know He's not tired of loving me. And that's enough inspiration for me to live each day."
We will be praying for a successful surgery and speedy recovery. When you return to the rink - popcorn is on me.
Richard Volpe Thank you for that wonderful prayer. I look forward to that bag of popcorn.
Thanks,
On December 9, 2013...
John posted a note for Richard that says:
wishing you all the best in your procedure Rich, see you soon back on the ball fields.
must have been a rough ride in that storm yesterday.
Richard Volpe Thanks John. I cannot think of a better place to be then on the ball field watching our boys hit the ... Read more
Richard Volpe Thanks John. I cannot think of a better place to be then on the ball field watching our boys hit the crap out of the ball
On December 8, 2013...
Adi Mor posted a note for Richard that says:
rich we love you and trust that you will be back with us with your silly jo
Richard Volpe Thanks Adi, I will have one maybe two silly jokes for you tonight.
Richard Volpe Thanks Adi, I will have one maybe two silly jokes for you tonight.
It's good to be the King,
Richard
On December 5, 2013...
Rev Paul Reiter posted a note for Richard that says:
One week from today you head back to surgery. I wish I could be in Cleveland to bring you greetings like you did for me after my surgery. Please know that anode andI have been praying for your successful outcome. My goal is still to make it to Chicago one day where we can share stories from the Cleveland Clinic. May your healing come quickly as you watch and wait in another Advent.
Warmly,
Paul and Ande Reiter
sy. Louis
Richard Volpe Good morning Paul, I remember the good old days in Cleveland like it was yesterday. I know I will be ... Read more
Richard Volpe Good morning Paul, I remember the good old days in Cleveland like it was yesterday. I know I will be in good hands with our surgeon Dr. Gillinov I hope all is well with you and thank you for your prayers. If and when you ever make it to Chicago I will have the red carpet waiting for you.
All the Best,
Richard
On December 5, 2013...
The Carriere's posted a note for Richard that says:
Thanks for the link Rich. You know we Canadians have your back and will be thinking of you (and the family) every step of the way. You will have a lot of corny jokes to catch up on when you get back. Hockey rules.... Go Leafs, eh!
Richard Volpe Thank you Canadians for having my back eh. Did I read your post wrong or did you say baseball rules a ... Read more
Richard Volpe Thank you Canadians for having my back eh. Did I read your post wrong or did you say baseball rules and go Blackhawks? Thank you Kim for your kind words. Let's hope Jason & Troy each get a hat trick tonight eh.
On December 4, 2013...
Vivian Wilson posted a note for Richard that says:
Hi Richard. I am so sorry that you must go through this again. You're a tough young man from the hood. Nothing will get in your way as you recover. You are a great guy who has always come through for me. You have been in my prayers since you told me about this a few weeks ago. Stay positive. So glad I am able to follow your progress on this site.
I will be writing. You'll be fine. I have a connection and my prayers are always answered. Vivian Wilson
Richard Volpe Vivian you are so sweet. Thank you for your kind words. Did you say the hood? Haha.
On December 4, 2013...
Jim and Lucia Stefo posted a note for Richard that says:
Hope all is going well. Sorry I couldn't get to Jason's game last weekend. We had a family crisis. If I can do anything for you just let me know. If Jason needs a ride to a game or practice.
Richard Volpe You are the man Jim. Thank you for your kindness.
On December 4, 2013...
Mike Novak posted a note for Richard that says:
That sucks. At least you're still ticking. Best wishes with everything you're going to encounter from the Novak's
Just keep that Rich Volpe attitude and you'll be good for the holidays. We'll probably see you soon at the rink eating up that
popcorn again too. Hope Jason is skating good again. Mike (Don't forget to play Minnie Ripperton while you recover)
Richard Volpe No more minnie! Michael I look foward to buying you popcorn someday.
Thanks.
On November 29, 2013...
Rebecca Martorano posted a note for Richard that says:
Hey Uncle Bootsie! Sorry to hear you have to go through this again. I have felt this way for my daughter, Angelina each time she has to go back for more Heart surgery. Some day she will need a valve as well so I am counting on you to show her how getting through this is done like a BOSS! I miss you guys. We should plan for a visit one of these days.I'm rooting for ya! Just think of the first valve as a practice valve! I also have a couple of friends who have mechanical valves and from what I have heard, the hardest part after is getting used to the sound it makes. I have listened up close and it sounds like a clock ticking. If I were you, I would start sleeping with a ticking clock by your bed so you can get used to it. lol I'll keep you in my prayers but I know you will do great! Love, Rebecca De Mornay ! AKA (Bec from EK - the one who was gonna .....blah blah blah ..you know the rest....lol
Richard Volpe Hello Rebecca De Mornay, Thank you for your kind words. I look forward to seeing you and your family ... Read more
Richard Volpe Hello Rebecca De Mornay, Thank you for your kind words. I look forward to seeing you and your family one day. I wish Angelina all the best. One question I have for you, are you still with, I'm sorry whats his name?? Don't worry about the ...blah blah blah... you took care of that, did you forget? haha. Talk to ya soon.
All The Best,
Uncle Boots
On November 13, 2013...
Rebecca S posted a note for Richard that says:
Oh my goodness! How can it be? I thought those valves were the best. Is yours Edwards Lifescience? I just heard great things about them. Mine is, but Mitral valve instead.
So sorry to hear you have to go through all that again. Guess the good thing is you are young an you know what to expect and what is needed to do well. Prayers going up!
Richard Volpe Hello Rebecca, Yes it is a Edwards Lifescience valve. Thank you for your words of encouragement.
Richard Volpe Hello Rebecca, Yes it is a Edwards Lifescience valve. Thank you for your words of encouragement.
All the best,
Richard
On November 13, 2013...
Marikay Chiappetta posted a note for Richard that says:
Richard I know this is a setback for you, but you're a strong person and I know you will do just fine....you have a fine doc and a loving family and friends . I will keep you in my prayers. Had my yearly EKG echo this past week and will see cartiologist next week...been feeling fine except I need two knees! Can't be a wuss to grow old...give your wife a hug from me and may God Bless you always!
Richard Volpe Hello Marikay. Good luck on your EKG & Echo. Give my best to Leo and thank you for your prayers.
Richard Volpe Hello Marikay. Good luck on your EKG & Echo. Give my best to Leo and thank you for your prayers.
All the best,
Richard
On November 13, 2013...
Jackie keys posted a note for Richard that says:
Prayers they get this fixed soon!
Richard Volpe Hello jackie, Thank you for your prayers.
All the best,
Richard
On November 13, 2013...
Sidney Nash posted a note for Richard that says:
Richard, sorry to hear about your redo. I, too have a cow valve (Duke 10/3/13). When deciding, I knew that at my young age (43), that I would have to have another one. As Dr. Hughes told me, "You pick the first one, I'll pick the second one," meaning that I know my mechanical valve is coming. Look at it this way, you get to have it done while you are still young and better able to recuperate. Best wishes, I know it is tough.
Richard Volpe Hello Sidney, Congratulations and welcome to the club. Your right, get it done while you are still yo ... Read more
Richard Volpe Hello Sidney, Congratulations and welcome to the club. Your right, get it done while you are still young and better able to recuperate.
All the Best,
Richard
On November 13, 2013...
Susan Smith , real name believe it or not. posted a note for Richard that says:
I am fairly new to this inspiring Community and I have the same Dx as you did. I am in the 6 month holding pattern, but expect that soon I will be ending as the cardiologist has talked about more test and then surgery soon. I am moderate to severe. Your situation is tough, but suspect that you are tough when you need to be. You can handle this and this time you will know what to expect and what to do and not to do. Keep up the good fight and knock the ball out of the park.
Richard Volpe Hello Susan, We're very lucky where living in the time were in 2013, very lucky. Thank you for your k ... Read more
Richard Volpe Hello Susan, We're very lucky where living in the time were in 2013, very lucky. Thank you for your kind words. You hit one out too.
All the best,
Richard
On September 18, 2012...
Sorry to hear about your valve problem...hope all goes well for you in Cleveland. leo chiappetta
Richard, I am so sorry. You know, that is also my biggest fear, so your news is sort of a kick in the gut for me as well. I have never been 100% at peace about the valve choice and I'm sorry to say that I do find myself second guessing the decision to go with tissue rather than mechanical. I took coumadin for many years for another defect and never really had any problems. I think I would choose mechanical also if I had it to do over. Still praying that isn't going to be necessary for you. I am very interested in what Dr. Gillinov says about why you are leaking. Keep the faith, you are in my prayers.
Linda Dixon
Hi Richard, sorry to hear your valve is leaking, but this may not necessarily be bad news. You didn't say how bad the leak was (I assume you mean regurgitation), but it's my understanding that they all may leak a little and it not require any intervention. This will be my prayer for you. Dr. Gillinov replaced my aortic valve in March of this year as well. Please keep us updated and keep the faith!
Linda Dixon, AVR 3/13/12
Richard Volpe Hello Linda - My cardiologist said the leak was significant - If I have a 2nd chance at this Im goin ... Read more
Richard Volpe Hello Linda - My cardiologist said the leak was significant - If I have a 2nd chance at this Im going with a Mechanical valve - How many more times can I go thru this? - Thank you for your kind words and I will keep you posted.
All The Best,
Richard
On September 17, 2012...
Richard I know all will go well with you.....but I'll keep you in my prayers also....
This is Jack
I told Sandy today how much you mean to me. I appreciate you being my friend. You always make me laugh. This is just a bump in the road and I would tell you not to worry but I know you better than that. Things will get better.
Richard Volpe You are the Man Thank you - Your friendship also means the world to me - Go White Sox
On September 16, 2012...
Hey Boots! Don't worry! It will be ok. The good thing is that you were able to get the news of the leak before it becomes too life threatening! Yes, the roller coaster ride begins again but I know you can get through anything ! I understand your feeling down though. I remember when I found out Angie had to go back in and I know that she will again in the future. We will have to make a pact to visit soon! Say hi to the Wife and kids !! I Love ya & Miss ya man! PS - call me any time too, to catch up- 715-676-2580 Love Rebecca De Mornay and the guy she wasn't gonna marry then did marry then celebrated 22 years together this year - yea that guy and the whole Martorano bunch !
Richard Volpe Nice to hear from you again Rebecca De Mornay - Thank you for your kind words it means alot - Im happ ... Read more
Richard Volpe Nice to hear from you again Rebecca De Mornay - Thank you for your kind words it means alot - Im happy all is well - I look forward to talking with you again - Did you say that guy???
On August 6, 2012...
I am glad everything is going well. Our friendship meens so much to me.
Richard Volpe Thank you but you didn't leave your name - I would like to know who you are.
Richard
On August 6, 2012...
Congrats Richard....you should be better than new! I have no doubts that you will be around for a very long time! Marikay
Richard Volpe Mary you made my day THANK YOU! I hope your during great.
Richard
On August 6, 2012...
Congratulations! Wishing you many more years of heart health. Dr, Gillinov is the best!
Fran
Richard Volpe Hello Fran - You were there in the beginning and I also wish you many more years of heart health. You ... Read more
Richard Volpe Hello Fran - You were there in the beginning and I also wish you many more years of heart health. Your right Dr. Gillinov is the beat. I hope your during great!
Thank you,
Richard
On March 22, 2012...
Richard,
I'm curious as I'm in my decision mode (constantly) did you have a repair or replacement? If replacement did you go with tissue or mechanical? Finally, how is exercising for you and general life style?
Thanks in advance -
Steve
On March 3, 2012...
Duh...sorry, meant Richard! My mind is just a little foggy just now, sure you understand.
Linda Dixon
On March 3, 2012...
Hi Paul, my name is Linda Dixon, and I just saw your post to one of the "valvers" getting ready for surgery. I got so excited when I read you had your surgery by Dr.Gillinov at CCF, I forgot whose journal you wrote in, lol. I am leaving for Cleveland myself on March 8th, testing on the 9th and 12th and aortic valve replacement and possible dilated aorta repair on the 13th. Dr. Gillinov is also my surgeon. I noticed in your journal that you were discharged on day 5, but stayed over for a few more days. Was this because you had to or did you just feel better staying over? I will be flying back to South Carolina and am under the impression I will be able to leave upon discharge from the hospital. Will probably spend that night there however and come back the following day.
I don't know how often you check your journal since you are fully recovered, but if you see this, I would love it if you could give me a "personal heads up" on Dr. G and the CCF.
REALLY getting closer!
Linda Dixon
On August 11, 2011...
Happy Anniversary. What a wonderful thing to celebrate!
On August 9, 2011...
Richard- I realized I did not sign my note to you! Blessings! Paul Reiter
On August 6, 2011...
I thought of you this morning before even saw your journal posting. I am so thankful that you have done well. My joy would be to comecto Chicago and take in a Sox game! My anniversarycdate is this Thursday August 11. Blessings to you!
On August 6, 2011...
Happy Aniversary and to many more to come!
On August 6, 2011...
Congrats, hope it went by as quickly as mine did. Wishing you many more heart healthy years. Dr Gillinov is the best, as is the CC. Enjoy life.
Fran
On August 6, 2011...
Congrats, hope it went by as quickly as mine did. Wishing you many more heart healthy years. Dr Gillinov is the best, as is the CC. Enjoy life.
Fran
On August 6, 2011...
This Aug.10th. will be my 10th. anniversary of my by-pass surgery. Glad you are doing so well. leo
On August 6, 2011...
Congrats on the one year anniversary!
Randa G
On June 28, 2011...
That's awesome, hope you had a good time at the game. I know I can't wait until I feel well enough to go up to Tropicana and catch a Rays game (hopefully against Detroit).
Now that is what I call a great diet! I love food so I get it. I think i was born for food. So glad you have a clean bill of health on your arteries. One thing to cross off the list. Have a great meeting tomorrow- you have an excellent surgeon. Best.
All the best,