Hi Sherry,
Leonard wanted to pass on to you that you are right where you should be. Everyone heals differently. Just go with the flow. Know that you will possibly be tired for a long time. We are thinking about you and sending love and hugs.
Ellen
Sherry Bradford Please tell him thanks! It is truly reassuring to know this sounds like normal progress! I will def ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Please tell him thanks! It is truly reassuring to know this sounds like normal progress! I will definitely try to just keep forging on. Start cardiac rehab next week. I can't imagine how that will be possible but I guess they have done this before! :-)
On November 4, 2012...
I know the limitations seem maddening and slow to subside to you, but remember, they cut open your chest and messed with your heart! LOL! I think a journal will help you a lot. You'll be able to focus on goals and then see actual progress. And hey, is there something wrong with watching 10 hours of TV a day? That's my typical weekend! Love you.
Sherry Bradford Haha! That is true! I sometimes forget what this all involved when I criticize myself for seeming s ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Haha! That is true! I sometimes forget what this all involved when I criticize myself for seeming so slow!
The trick is finding 10 hours of something to watch! Thank goodness for the old movie channel, I Love Lucy, and NetFlix! Haha!
On November 4, 2012...
Hi Sherry,
I can relate to your feelings the first few days after surgery. I got a 5-week diary from Sequoia Hospital which has been useful to me. I talked to the surgeon there as one of the 3 opinions I wanted to get (before I had surgery). I didn't use him - he wasn't covered under my health insurance.
The diary he gave me has columns for the Day, Daily Activity/Walking, Daily Weight, Daily Pain Meds, Appetite, and How I Feel Today. I added a column for heart rate. This has been a good tool for me to see my progress in all these areas. Also may be useful for my cardiologist if I'm concerned with an area, like my high hear rate (currently around 96 bpm). I put the time down when I took the meds - it's amazing how it has reminded me to take them sometimes!! I've extended this diary beyond 5 weeks and am still doing it - may need to put it on an Excel spreadsheet.
Everyone of us recovers differently, but we are recovering. It's like 2 steps forward and 1 step back some days and then 2 steps forward and 3 steps back other days!!!
I'm wishing you all the best in your recovery. It will get better!!!
Regards,
Lee Castro (My surgery Aug 13, 12)
Sherry Bradford I keep those stats in a little notebook but I like the idea of making it a journal. Thank you so muc ... Read more
Sherry Bradford I keep those stats in a little notebook but I like the idea of making it a journal. Thank you so much for the encouragement! Very appreciated! Good luck to you as well in your continuing recovery!!
On November 3, 2012...
Glad to know you made it through your surgery. It is reassuring to hear that the pain is not that bad--as long as it is managed properly! Since I will be facing AVR in the near future, I appreciate learning from your experiences. Thanks for sharing!
Chris K
Sherry Bradford Chris you will do great. Truly the very low level of pain has been a shock. Given the number of hol ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Chris you will do great. Truly the very low level of pain has been a shock. Given the number of holes and the length of the incision, you would think I would be waiting for my next pain pill all the time! But I typically have just two hydrocodones a day and sometimes just one. In the hospital as they removed various tubes they wisely gave me morphine or other pain meds before the removal which helped a lot. A few things hurt like the dickens (removing fluid from my lungs) and some were weird ( removing various tubes and wires) but nothing was ever so bad I thought I couldn't make it through. I am not a "tough" person so if I tell you the pain was very manageable, you have a good average gauge! Enjoy time before your surgery and try not to worry..
On October 31, 2012...
Hi Sherry,
I am fairly new to the site but have been following your story. I am glad that you are doing well. I will be facing surgery sometime soon for aortic stenosis. It is so great to hear from patients that have gone through it. My thoughts and prayers for a quick recovery.
JoAnen B.
Sherry Bradford Thanks, JoAnen. I will have you in my prayers! The wait and then the desire to push too much afterw ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Thanks, JoAnen. I will have you in my prayers! The wait and then the desire to push too much afterward are the hardest. The pain itself is very controllable. It is frustrating to feel so weak but that just takes time and gets better a little each day. You are going to do great!
On October 30, 2012...
Hi Sherry!
Thank Goodness everything is good with you!.. I think we were all worried!
Those first few weeks can certainly be a challenge...for me..it was just staying awake long enough for walks!.. lol I thought I was fatigued before surgery...my oh my....but it gets better! :) In fact, it ALL gets better...just take it easy, listen to your body...and take advantage of being "queen for a day" (for a couple more weeks).
Wishing you a speedy recovery!
Connie T
Sherry Bradford Thank you, Connie! I sure appreciate everyone's support and prayers! A friend loaned us a recliner ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Thank you, Connie! I sure appreciate everyone's support and prayers! A friend loaned us a recliner and once I got all the pillows and covers arranged have had much better sleep. I am with you on the fatigue! I just sleep, drink, eat, take pills and go back to sleep. Working in a little something else each day is a challenge! Looking forward to better energy! The thought of returning to work right now seems impossible but I know a lot will improve in the next few weeks. Hugs!
On October 30, 2012...
Whew...great to finally hear from you Sherry. Was getting worried that Dr. Ryan might not be as fantastic as I had heard. Glad it all went great (maybe even perfect?) and that you are quickly getting through the first stages of recovery. Soon you will be into cardiac rehab, a wonderful part of the overall healing process.
Best of luck to you and your family!
-Thomas H.
Sherry Bradford Thomas, I am such a dolt. I actually took cards with me and my iPad and figured after a day or two I ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Thomas, I am such a dolt. I actually took cards with me and my iPad and figured after a day or two I would be sending out Thanks notes and keeping up with posting. HAHA! Needless to say, THAT was positive thinking extraordinaire! I have yet to pen any cards and have just gotten back to posting!
But I did get through all the mail that has piled up yesterday which was a great accomplishment. I realize I just have to reign in my expectations a bit.
Dr. Ryan is such a rock star in my book! I just cannot express how grateful I am to him, his staff, and all the great folks at Plano Heart Hospital! Amazing! Thank you for your recommendations!
On October 30, 2012...
So very glad you are on the road to recovery!!! Take care and I will watch for more updates!! Prayers have been answered!
Vicki E.
Sherry Bradford Oh my they sure have! I feel so very very blessed! Thank you!
On October 30, 2012...
Am beyond delighted that all has gone so well. Praising much. Just recover now; it's your only job. (How often do we get to focus like that?) Love you.
Dawn
Sherry Bradford Dawn, the recliner has been such a huge blessing! I have been able to get two nights of sleep, each ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Dawn, the recliner has been such a huge blessing! I have been able to get two nights of sleep, each better than the last. Thank you so much! Hugs!
On October 30, 2012...
Hi Sherry, So glad to see your post on here. I was worried about you, so happy everything went well and welcome to the other side of the mountain. Heres to a speedy recovery. Oh the grass isnt to bad here either. Hope all goes well.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
Sherry Bradford Thank you! Hugs and appreciation for all your kind support. It is slow but steady.
On October 30, 2012...
So glad to hear you came through well. We have been thinking about you. Had to send Everett a message the other day to make sure you were ok, so I could stop worrying! Miss you and love to all!
Harriet and David
Sherry Bradford Thank you! I feel like I have been hit by a Mack Truck, but have seen progress each day! Hugs and l ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Thank you! I feel like I have been hit by a Mack Truck, but have seen progress each day! Hugs and love!
On October 29, 2012...
Sherry, Worried about since we haven't heard from you! Hopefully things went well and you are just mending!
Vicki E.
On October 23, 2012...
Good Luck Sherry. I'm glad your test went well. I find the information you gave v
aluable. My prayers are with you for your surgery tomorrow.
Fran W
On October 23, 2012...
Good luck today Sherry! You will be in our prayers and I know you will do great! It seems like you have found your calm place and knowing that you have an excellent surgeon and you're so close to home will help.
See you on the backside of your heart mountain!
-Thomas H.
On October 22, 2012...
So happy to hear that things went well today and prayers for a smooth procedure tomorrow! Xoxoxo!!
Harriet and David
On October 22, 2012...
Sherry,
Glad things went well today. Praying that everything goes well with the surgery. Look forward to updates as you post.
Nancy Genetti
On October 22, 2012...
The dreaded surgery is nearly over. Soon you'll be on the road to recovery! I will keep you in my prayers and I look forward to reading updates of your recovery.
Debbie A
On October 22, 2012...
Praying for a you! You will feel better before you know it.
Niki Dixon
On October 22, 2012...
Good luck, Sherry! I will be rooting for you!
Chris
On October 21, 2012...
Good luck Sherry,
You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
...Vicki D.
On October 21, 2012...
Hi Sherry, Glad I caught you before your big day. Want to wish you the best of luck. Sounds like you are ready and you know what. You are strong and will do great. To be scared is natural. Like I told everyone if I wasn't scared I wouldn't be human. After they got me back in the pre op to get ready and put a little something in that IV, well I dont remember much. All I remember is seeing 3 big lights instead of one. And I thought this is serious stuff. Got on the table and dont remember anything else. Frank told me I had told everyone around me that I loved them but dont even remember that. I still ask questions to try and fill in the blanks. But anyway God will be with you the whole way and you will know it. Keep us all posted and I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers and thoughts.
xoxo
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
On October 21, 2012...
Sherry,
Thank you for the info on my journal. I have been watching your journey and will say prayers for you and your family as your journey continues. I look forward to hearing from you after your surgery! Take care and think good thoughts..God will be with you!
Vicki E.
On October 21, 2012...
I would be scared too! Or apprehensive anyway. It's a big deal. But you have a fine doctor and you'll do great. I love you.
Sherry, Hope you have a great time in California. Wishing you a speedy recovery! One of my sons has a bifurcated valve and his cardiologist has told him he will probably have to have it replaced somewhere down the road. So, I'll be following your journal with caring thoughts for you and personal interest as well! John G.
Sherry Bradford John, thank you so much! The procedures continue to get better and better so your son should have an ... Read more
Sherry Bradford John, thank you so much! The procedures continue to get better and better so your son should have an even better set of circumstances when he needs surgery. Hugs!
On October 17, 2012...
Hi Sherry; glad your on vacation, getting your mind (somewhat) away from the surgery. Today is the 4th week since my AVR and tomorrow I have the first follow up appointment with the Dr. Have fun and do your best to keep the anxiety at a low level (easier said than done). The nursing staff and food were great at Baylor Plano.
Sherry Bradford Congrats on the four week mark! Thank you! We have been walking a lot and it has been nice to be so ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Congrats on the four week mark! Thank you! We have been walking a lot and it has been nice to be so tired I just fall asleep. We have been eating wonderful food so if my pipes were not clogged before, they probably are now! Haha!
On October 16, 2012...
Glad to hear you are getting some good R&R before surgery! Hugs and kisses! Love you lots!!
Harriet and David
glad you have a date Sherry. The time will fly now. Just rest and enjoy company etc. You will do fine and in know time you will be chasing my down the mountain. Good luck to you and Gods speed. Keep you in my prayers.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
Sherry Bradford Thank you! Time already seems to be moving faster! Keep mooing, Linda and Elsie! You keep me encou ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Thank you! Time already seems to be moving faster! Keep mooing, Linda and Elsie! You keep me encouraged by reading about your progress!
On October 11, 2012...
Praise the Lord for his wonderous blessings. we will all be in prayer for you and your surgery team on that date and after with no delays and a speedy recovery. Love Lois
Sherry Bradford Amen to that! Hope you are feeling better! Praying for you as well!
On October 11, 2012...
Yay!!!
You have a firm date and it is not too far away. When I got within 2 weeks of my surgery, the days went by much faster for me. I did all I could to get my affairs and my mind in order and then let God do the rest.
I'm praying for you Sherry - you're almost on top of the mountain!!!
Regards,
Lee Castro (Surgery 8/13/12)
Sherry Bradford Thank you so much! It already seems to be moving faster! So glad as that means I will soon be on th ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Thank you so much! It already seems to be moving faster! So glad as that means I will soon be on the other side of this process and getting back to life! Thank you and have you in my prayers also!
On October 9, 2012...
No wonder we don't pray for great patience, because it comes with the great suffering before hand. I too have been suffering with shinglesfor the past, well nearly two weeks. Went to the doctor and pills are not really helping very much,ouch! I'll be praying for you and your work , scheduling and all of it He certainly can multitask this. Read 2 Cor 4: 16-18 Hope it will strengthen and encourage you. Love Lois
Sherry Bradford Oh, Lois! What a misery! I had them years ago and had to get a steroid package. It is really misera ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Oh, Lois! What a misery! I had them years ago and had to get a steroid package. It is really miserable! Will be praying for you!
On October 8, 2012...
Hi Sherry, That is horrible to be put off like that and not getting all the paperwork. I can understand a postponement because of a transplanet etc. The way I look at it is, its part of Gods plan. He may be looking out for you and that just wasnt the day it is to happen. God will take care of you and you will be fine. My prayers are with you.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/10/12
Sherry Bradford I am so glad that you are Mooing all over! :-) Yes, I am trying to just trust that if the day gets ... Read more
Sherry Bradford I am so glad that you are Mooing all over! :-) Yes, I am trying to just trust that if the day gets pushed then God has his reasons and it will be for the best. Still praying we hit the 23rd or 24th but trying to keep my eyes on the present day and getting through that. I am feeling more and more fatigued which could be stress but I am thinking it is decreasing oxygen/function. Thank you so much for prayers and encouragement! Keep getting better!
On October 7, 2012...
Sherry, I know what you are going through. If you have read any of my journal entries you know that my surgery was postponed 3 days. I learned of the delay as the whole family was waiting for my surgery to begin! Instead of being called back, we were sent home! I cannot describe the roller coaster of emotions I experienced. My slot saved a man's life (Heart transplant), but....!! I justified the events: It's God's plan-apparently he thought I needed another 2 days. I suggest you stay on top of your medical care but be flexible, stay positive and know it will work out.
Keep us informed and I will keep you and yours in my prayers.
Sherry Bradford Oh my goodness! I can imagine how upsetting that must have been! You are right though and I appreci ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Oh my goodness! I can imagine how upsetting that must have been! You are right though and I appreciate the folks who have been reminding me that God's timing is better than mine. And though this is a major journey for me, I try to remind myself that others are impacted too and maybe if I have to wait it is for their sakes. Thank you and hugs!
On October 6, 2012...
Aunt Sherry, We are praying for you from Colorado. Love, Anthony, Agnes, John, Sabeth, and Marie.
Sherry Bradford Thank you all very much! Looking forward to seeing Sabeth and her friend!
On October 6, 2012...
Sherry,
As frustrating as this is God will set your day just for you. You want to listen to his timing. We will be praying for you.
I'm soooo glad that this has been discovered. Praise GOD! There is a cardiologist in my immediate family, so I understand a little of what you're facing. It will be magical. It will be wonderful, and you will feel like a new person. My prayers, Heather's prayers, all of us here in Tulsa are holding you close and I know you'll come through with flying colors. Of course whether or acrylics, it will be fabulous. - Love you dearly, Priscilla and PS thank you for the thoughts and prayers sent my way.
Sherry Bradford Truly! It really is a blessing. Thank you all so much for the prayers! Folks keep telling me I will ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Truly! It really is a blessing. Thank you all so much for the prayers! Folks keep telling me I will feel like a new woman so that will be fun to experience! :-) Hugs to all in Tulsa!
On October 4, 2012...
Hi Sherry, That was a nice surprise. My church did the same thing, brought over a basket of goodies, and then to top it off brought dinners over for a week after I got home. It just takes the edge off what is going to happen and to know how many wonderful people are there supporting you. You are in the hardest part right now. I think my hardest part was walking back into the pre op for surgery and having to leave my family. After they got me all fixed up they were allowed to come back to be with me. They put some happy stuff in the IV and when they wheeled me in I didnt care except seeing 3 big lights. I had to move onto the table and I was thinking when I had my hysterictomy there was only 1 big light hanging and now there were 3. I thought the worse the surgery the more lights. After that I dont remember anything and all I knew my daughter was there saying Mom you made it and you are mooing. You will do great God was with me the whole time and he will be with you holding your hand and helping the surgeon. Keep us all posted. You have a lot of people here on HVJ pulling for you. Good luck will keep ;you in my prayers.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
Sherry Bradford I love your posts! Thank you (and Elsie! :-) ). We truly are blessed to have such sweet folks who w ... Read more
Sherry Bradford I love your posts! Thank you (and Elsie! :-) ). We truly are blessed to have such sweet folks who want to help and who hold us up in prayer! I hadn't thought about the lights. In my neck surgery I was out before they ever wheeled me into the room so I don't think I've ever seen the actual operating room! I am really looking forward to being knocked out - will be a relief to stop thinking about all this stuff! LOL! Hugs and have you in my prayers for continued speedy and healthy recovery!!
On October 2, 2012...
Dear Sherry,
I'm so happy for you! No Big Dog stories here. Just glad you've discovered it and are getting it fixed! You will do great. We need to see each other Soon. Maybe I can come hang out while you're off work, after you start getting around. At least we can text. And maybe and each other silly photos. I know you're scared. Relax into it and let it flow through you like water. Don't give it any place to puddle! Love you so much.
Thought about waiting until I could come up with something spectacular to say, but the reality of that is that it might never come!! I think of you and Curt often and am praying for you both. You two are very special people and I know that God has this!
Sherry Bradford LOL! What you said was just right! Thank you! Curt and I really appreciate prayers! Watch the site ... Read more
Sherry Bradford LOL! What you said was just right! Thank you! Curt and I really appreciate prayers! Watch the site for updates as we get to surgery!
On October 2, 2012...
Hi Sherry, the what if's seem to get us in trouble mentally and believe me; I had a bunch of them before my surgery last month with Dr. Ryan. I've been home about a week, by myself and feel good. Normally, taking one pain pill before going to bed. God is so good and He will take care of us as we go through the valleys of worry, anxiety and what if's; have faith. I know it is difficult and I think the days before surgery were the most difficult with all the unknowns, decisions and anxiety. Think positive, the best you can and try not to dwell on the negatives. Hey, you do get good food at Baylor Heart Hospital and the nurses were fantastic with me. I do not go back to see Dr. Ryan till the middle of October but I feel good; much better than I expected. Thought previously I'd have to sleep in a recliner at night; not yet; fine in bed. He did about 3 1/2 to 4 inch incision to replace my aortic valve. Keep us upto date and try not to worry about things you have no control. (Easier said than done.) Don S
Sherry Bradford Thank you! I am so glad you are doing so well. That encourages me too! The What ifs sneak up on me ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Thank you! I am so glad you are doing so well. That encourages me too! The What ifs sneak up on me and surprise me. Today is my son's birthday and I think that got me worrying about whether I would see another. When I think rationally though, it is probably more dangerous driving to work on i35 every day! God really is good and I know he is faithful in loving us in ways that I can't even begin to comprehend. It is that silly need to feel in control I think - when really we never are. The ice is always thin this side of heaven and we always need to be relying on God's love and care. Hope I can remember that more after surgery and not waste these good life lessons.
On October 2, 2012...
Sherry,
I had my MV Bi-Leaflet repair (Barelow's and same as Thomas') performed by Dr. Ryan on June 18th. Dr. Ryan, Baylor Heart, and everyone involved could not have been better. I know it is a different surgery and everyone's experience is different, but I honestly forget that I had OHS most of the time now. Feels weird to remind myself that I went through that experience.
Ask Tammy at Dr. Ryan's office any and all questions that cannot be answered here, she is wonderful.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. trentv@gmail.com
Thanks,
Trent
Sherry Bradford Thank you! I really enjoy hearing experiences of those who have had Dr. Ryan. Hoping your recovery ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Thank you! I really enjoy hearing experiences of those who have had Dr. Ryan. Hoping your recovery just continues to go so wonderfully well! Thank you for Tammy's name. It helps to know there is someone I can contact! Thank you!
On September 30, 2012...
Thank's for giving it a name. We've all heard some doozies. Awesome post. -- DVB
Sherry Bradford LOL! Thanks! Maybe Adam will give us a chapter in his next book update!
On September 29, 2012...
Hi Sherry,
I loved your story about the big dog and think it is a great way to look at it!
Regards,
Vicki D.
(62 until Tues. ha! Bicuspid aortic valve, still watching & waiting - moderate stenosis).
Sherry Bradford Haha, so glad! Hoping to make folks smile. Happy upcoming birthday and remember you are only one day ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Haha, so glad! Hoping to make folks smile. Happy upcoming birthday and remember you are only one day older on Tuesday - not a whole year! Haha! Hoping for good things around your valve, but if and when intervention needed you will have lots of encouragement from this Community!
On September 29, 2012...
Did I tell you about the surgery my sister's husband's cousin's aunt's brother's mother-in-law had? But I am sure you will be fine!!
Sherry Bradford Hahaha! I probably have! Hahaha! Thanks for the giggle!
On September 28, 2012...
Hi Sherry, I am 66 years old and just received a cow valve. I am very happy with it. The doctor said it would last 20-25 years. When I add my age up I figured that is about the time when I wll meet my wonderful God at that time. I am doing really good. Nobody believes I just had surgery and I had the full sternomy probably cause of my anuersym. I hardly have any pain at all. Whatever valve you decide on you will do great. I have hardly any pain at all which I am amazed. It is a long hard walk back but you will make it. Trust in God he is so good and he will be there for you. Good luck keep you in my prayers.
Mooing all over
Linda H and Elsie AVR 9/19/12
Sherry Bradford I am so glad you are doing so well! I have been reading your journal and it cracked me up that you n ... Read more
Sherry Bradford I am so glad you are doing so well! I have been reading your journal and it cracked me up that you named your new valve Elsie! You have a wonderful attitude and that has got to help you with your recovery! You are one of my heart valve heroes for sure! Thank you so much for your encouragement! Hugs and prayers for a continued speedy and full recovery!
On September 28, 2012...
Sherry, making the decision on which valve is a major thing. Never did ask your age. Some Drs had a 65 year cut off, mechanical or tissue. Seemed strange since some patients are more healthy than others at a given age. I'm like you, wish there would be an available study comparing age/health to others with similar age/health condition. Let me know when the surgery date is set. God is good and sure takes care of us. Take care,
Sherry Bradford I am 60 so the mechanical is the recommendation I read most often. My cardiologist thought it was a g ... Read more
Sherry Bradford I am 60 so the mechanical is the recommendation I read most often. My cardiologist thought it was a good idea but he stressed that each person also needs to feel good about the choice so he tries to advise and provide good information to help weigh the two and then wait on the patient to make a decision. Initially the biological appealed to me because I was worried about the Coumadin. But as I have heard from more people, talked to those on it, I began to lean more toward trying to maximize the probability for me having to do this just once. Since we can't see the future the best we can do is an informed guess. If I get to the hospital and Dr. Ryan says I really should go biological after all, I will likely take his advise. He has seen hundreds of both surgeries and I would rather take advantage of his experience than lean on what I know at this point. So I am just praying and asking friends to pray that the Dr. will give me good advice and that God will guide him in taking care of me and getting me back on the road to recovery. God is truly good and I do believe all this is being guided by His plans for me and my family. Thank you so much for your advice and encouragement. I appreciate it so much!
On September 26, 2012...
Hi Sherry, my heart and Prayers go out to you. I don't think the surgeons understand the stress we go under prior to surgery, especially with the valve decision. I'm in relatively good health and 66 years old, had the same concerns as you. I reponded to this because I know how anxious you must be. Had my surgery on 9/19th at Plano Heart Center with Dr. Ryan. He recommended the bovine valve for me although I was not satisfied with that choice because of the potential for another surgery. I had planned on talking with him the morning of surgery regarding which valve but the antithesologist (or maybe it was God) before I saw the Surgeon. I ended up with the bovine valve with a relatively small incision in the chest to replace the aortic valve. This is the valve he mentioned to me during our office visit. Must say, overall, God took care of me and watched over the surgeon during the operation. Must have been the correct decision for me. I had pain the 1st 3 days, then it leveled off and now taking 1-2 pain tablets per day. Surgery last Wednesday and came home yesterday or Tuesday. Walked yesterday and today. Dr. Ryan did a fabulous job, as far as I know, with being up and around with little pain in a week. The hospital, have nothing but praises for it and the nursing staff. Wish you the best and my Prayers are with you. By the way, I felt the same way about backing away from everyone till I could come up with a decision. Have faith! Keep me posted! Don S.
Sherry Bradford Don I am so happy to hear from you and that you are doing so well! I spoke to a lady today whose aun ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Don I am so happy to hear from you and that you are doing so well! I spoke to a lady today whose aunt had a biologic valve put in nearly 35 years ago and is still going strong. and they are doing an even better job on prepping them to last longer these days. i wish they would come up with some good stats that would separate out people who are seriously ill when they get their replacement and those who are more healthy, etc. so we could really compare apples to apples. And I think you are right. Unless a surgeon has been through it themselves I don't think they can truly understand how huge this decision feels! But they see the good outcomes every day and we are lucky if we know just a few folks who have done one or the other. So that may also be why they seem less phased by the choices. I have decided on the mechanical one and hope that will be the right choice for me. How wonderful that you had a smaller incision! I sure hope that is what I get as well. That seems to be a great predictor of a less painful and a faster recovery. I have Dr. Ryan as well. Am so happy as he has such a great reputation. We are really blessed to be near such a great facility and staff! Thank you for your prayers and I will also have you in mine for a continued and speedy recovery!
On September 26, 2012...
Hi Sherry,
Just a couple quick thoughts. For me and many others, we had the heart cath one day before the surgery. I believe the purpose of the 1 day delay is to check if there are blocked arteries in advance of the surgery. I assume the 1 day allows time for the cardiologist and/or surgeon a chance to review the results before surgery.
One other comment I wanted to pass along was what Dr. Ryan said when I asked him about mortality from OHS. My situation was called Barlowe's, which is when both leaflets of the mitral valve are prolapsing. It essentially means the surgery is a little more complicated because both leaflets require work.
Dr. Ryan's smiled and responded that of course he had never lost a patient with my condition and he had only needed to reoperate on a couple patients over the many years. In those cases, a condition called SAM (systolic anterior motion) had developed, something that happens in about 3% of patients. I think once you speak with Dr. Ryan, he will be able to alleviate some of your fears.
Hope that helps a little bit. Take care!
-Thomas H.
Sherry Bradford Thank you so much! That is super news to hear and I can only imagine how relieved you were when he s ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Thank you so much! That is super news to hear and I can only imagine how relieved you were when he shared that with you! I have to say that every time I come to the Guestbook I am more encouraged that this is going to turn out well. I don't know what I would have done without Adam's book and all the info and encouragement here. Will be so glad when I am on the other side in recovery and can share that same encouragement with others. Thank you!
On September 26, 2012...
Dear Sherry, I know what you're going through. Everytime I went to surgery I had the most alone feeling.Even though I knew people were praying for me I was afraid. all the what ifs danced in my little brain. This is going to sound like, easy for me to say, but I know the Lord will be right there with you. He is still able to heal. After all He's the one who formed you in your mothers womband knows the number of hairs on your head. Put the sun ,moon ,and stars in there places. He surely knows what is going on the inside of you. He cares for you, for you are His child. If He cared about all those old testement people, just lookat all they did. Then you can be sure he cares about you too. He's in control of everything even surgeons. Lots of Love and Prayer, Lois L
Sherry Bradford Love you! Lois! Thank you so much for the encouragement. Definitely could not cope without the fait ... Read more
Sherry Bradford Love you! Lois! Thank you so much for the encouragement. Definitely could not cope without the faith I have that God is in control. I need peace that all this will come together in His timing.
Leonard wanted to pass on to you that you are right where you should be. Everyone heals differently. Just go with the flow. Know that you will possibly be tired for a long time. We are thinking about you and sending love and hugs.
Ellen