Barb Hoth posted a note for Steven A that says:
Steve,
My surgery was July 2nd and I have not had a lot of pain. The nurses keep on top of it and encourage you not to let the pain get bad. If you have had other surgeries and kidney stones. I think you will tolerate it well. We are all scared going into it. I just reluctantly made the decision and kept taking steps forward.
Your concern about being alone might be a bigger deal and definitely something you should check into before surgery: Home care? rehab? support groups? meals on wheels?
Best of luck.
Steven A Husted thanks barb i need all the help i can get i was feeling pretty down today and decided to start readin ... Read more
Steven A Husted thanks barb i need all the help i can get i was feeling pretty down today and decided to start reading adam's book again and the very first page was just what i was thinking why me do i really need this will i ever be the same again how painful will it be and the big question will i die wow if adam only knew how much his book has helped others and will keep doing so in the future thank you adam and this web site and all the dear people on this site with out this site i might put this off but this site has made me realize i need to get this done as soon as possible because it is getting worse every day i can feel it getting worse thank you so much barb
On July 26, 2014...
Susan Smith posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hi Steve. I had my open heart surgery April 29th and to be truthful about the pain...... I don't remember any pain, but my son was posting for me while I was in ICU that is a time I don't remember. He said I was in pain, but that the nurses help me get under control. I know when I was in the step down room, every nurse that came in asked if I was in pain and I wasn't. If I touched the incision area it was sore, but that was it. So I concluded that it wasn't bad. Hope that is what you remember too.
Steven A Husted thank you so much susan i really wanted to hear that from someone who has been thru it the more i hea ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you so much susan i really wanted to hear that from someone who has been thru it the more i hear that the better it makes me feel about going ahead with my operation you have really lifted my spirt i have had a few others tell me also and the more i hear it the better i feel and it takes away some of my fear also thanks again (popeye)
On July 25, 2014...
Mia posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hello Steve,
My name is Mary. I agree with you about Adam's book being a great source for the heart family. I read your question about but he heart burn I have mitral valve stenosis . I experienced heartburn and reflux, my cardiologist put me on prilosec. It seems to help.
You may want to see your doctor if this keeps happening.
Good luck with everything. My surgery is next Tuesday the 29th. I am also scared. Am trying to focus on the positive.
Just think of how much better you will feel!
Glad you got the power chair.
Nice to have a new heart brother. I will post on my journal as my journey begins.
Sleep well, look forward to hearing from you.
Mary (Mia)
Steven A Husted hi mia thanks for the post best of luck to you with your operation i wonder if it is true when people ... Read more
Steven A Husted hi mia thanks for the post best of luck to you with your operation i wonder if it is true when people tell you look how much better you will feel or weather they are just saying that to make you feel better i guess it does make you feel better well hear i am again i went to dinner with a friend to celebrate her birthday and ate to much now i can't get to sleep well i will try again thank you for your post again i really enjoy every post i get love you all (popeye)
On July 25, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hi there Popeye! Terrie here. Thanks again for such a nice post to me(I responded but don't see it here so check my journal id you get a chance!
As to your acid reflux or heart burn I hear it is quite common with heart valve problems and I myself had more problems in the last 4 or 5 months to which my primary doctor gave me "Pepcid" which I did not take but decided to change my eating patterns and choices and not get too full, especially at night so I am not feeling it all night long during sleep.
We also know you have had a tough time(like most of us)with anxiety of late and that can help set the stage for heart burn when mixed with eating. But to be sure, Lynn gave the best advice in that you should discuss this with your cardiologist to be safe! Hope you get an answer soon. Take care buddy.
Steven A Husted thanks terrie you and lynn have good advice i take zantac 150 twice a day for a long time for acid re ... Read more
Steven A Husted thanks terrie you and lynn have good advice i take zantac 150 twice a day for a long time for acid reflux my doctor gave me lansoprazole for heart burn and acid reflux but i think i will stick with zantac for now you all have been a big help i an really blessed to have found this site thank you all and i am praying for you all (popeye)
On July 25, 2014...
Lynn Quast posted a note for Steven A that says:
I've had bad acid reflux for about 5 years but I noticed after my valve replacement it improved a lot. So not sure if it's related but since the body all works together , I would think it is. Also big meals and acidy foods and laying down after eating are all trouble if you're getting heart burn. I'd discuss it with your cardiologist though to be on the safe side! Doctors can never have too much info! Btw ... The electric chair is a god send after surgery!!!! Wishing you the best!! Lynn
Steven A Husted thank you lynn i have had acid reflux and heart burn for a long time but after my diagnosis it has go ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you lynn i have had acid reflux and heart burn for a long time but after my diagnosis it has gotten worse i agree with you the body works together and it may be somehow related i have to stop eating before bedtime hope this will help thanks (popeye)
On July 25, 2014...
Clare posted a note for Steven A that says:
I had some heart burn after surgery if I would lay the wrong way or lie down too soon after I ate. Take care.
Steven A Husted thank you for that information i am sure it will help me because i have heart burn very often and tak ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you for that information i am sure it will help me because i have heart burn very often and take zantac every day
On July 25, 2014...
Meredith Bray posted a note for Steven A that says:
Glad you found an electric lift chair! I had one as well, a used one. It was a God-send in the first few weeks after I came home. I hope yours is as comfortable as mine :) I loved Adam's book, it was a great help to me. Take care of yourself :)
Steven A Husted yes i have been useing my power chair and i think it will be a great help after surgery for getting u ... Read more
Steven A Husted yes i have been useing my power chair and i think it will be a great help after surgery for getting up and down yes i think adam's book is and will be a great help to all heart surgery patient's
On July 24, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hello again Popeye!
It is Terrie here and I just finished responding to your post to me!
Just read your journal and wanted to say "great job" on finding a chair at a great price. I am sure it will be of help after your surgery! Take care buddy.
On July 17, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Steven A that says:
Popeye!
Glad you will be checking in with your cardio. Good luck and keep us posted.
You realize you are going to be just fine
buddy!
Steven A Husted thanks again terrie it seems like my fear comes and goes one day i am down in the dumps and the next ... Read more
Steven A Husted thanks again terrie it seems like my fear comes and goes one day i am down in the dumps and the next day i am feelin better because i read something possitive this site is a blessing and i am starting to read adams book over again and it helps god bless (popeye)
On July 17, 2014...
Susan Smith posted a note for Steven A that says:
Steve you have a lot of questions, so may I suggest that you join the Webinar that is taking place this afternoon and then watch some of the others regarding Aortic Stenosis. I am post surgery and am 73. The surgery went well, but I got fluid in my right lung and ended up back in the hospital. Once I got rid of the fluid, the recovery went smoothly. I am dealing with apprehension of which I am getting help on. You need some answers so that you my rest and have peace about the surgery. Do talk with your cardio. You will do just fine. Trust God.
Steven A Husted thank you susan you are an angel this site is a wealth of information thank you for all your help and ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you susan you are an angel this site is a wealth of information thank you for all your help and comments they all are a great comfort and help on this road to surgery remember me in prayer thanks again
On July 16, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Steven A that says:
Steven- You look like Popeye the Sailor Man"! Nice photo.
As to your question.
I also have trouble just going shopping as I can't walk fast or I am out of breath. Avoid hot places too as it will catch your breath as well. The heaviness you spoke of can be attributed also to your stenosis but BOTTEM LINE: If you are feeling that much worse and aren't sure of what is happening you really need to let your cardiologist know that your symptoms are getting worse. They are the only ones who can make a judgment call on whether or not to proceed more quickly with your surgery.
I also know that the more anxious you are the worse your symptoms seem to feel. My cardiologist said "If you are in doubt especially if there is a new pain involved and you don't know for sure if you should "sit thru " whatever is going on at the time it might be worth a trip to an ER.
I hope you are feeling better and that you check in with someone just to be safe. You will get the reassurance you probably need and if not direct their attention to your current symptoms.
Take care and will look for your posts.
Steven A Husted thank you terrie i used to wear my sailor hat every where after i got out of the navy and they starte ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you terrie i used to wear my sailor hat every where after i got out of the navy and they started calling me popeye so it became my nicname ha ha you are right i am going to let my cardio know my simtoms are getting worse and see what he thinks i am going to question him more about my catherzation and what it showed thanks for your comments steve (popeye)
On July 13, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hello again Steven. Terrie here again. I forgot to mention to you earlier in my post to you that the main reason that I chose a tissue valve instead of the mechanical valve is that I also, like you take insulin for diabetes and I felt that it would be easier to keep track of the diabetes without adding having to watch out Coumadin levels as well. I also asked the surgeon what he felt would be best for me for that reason. I am 85 years old and I don't know your age but I also believe if another surgery is necessary later on that the advancements that are being made may prove to make the invasive part of surgery different/easier that the one we will go through this time. If you have good control with your insulin now it makes a difference too. So give that surgeon you pick out all that information so that he can better help you make the choice, ok? You are receiving many good thoughts and advice from those who have already gone through the surgery and are trying to let us going in know to try and stay positive and strong so like them we will be the ones on the other side giving the advice! So stay strong and believe that we are all in the best "Hands"!
Later, heart-brother.
Steven A Husted thank you terrie if i were 85 i might go with a tissue valve also but i am 65 and i really don't want ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you terrie if i were 85 i might go with a tissue valve also but i am 65 and i really don't want another operation at 80 or 85 i am a little fearful of coumadin but my testing for my sugar twice a day is not that bad and another finger stick a day is not that bad outch ha ha thanks again steve
On July 13, 2014...
Matt O. posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hi Steven
You seem like you're having a rough time with this. I'm 10 weeks out of surgery, and I can say that I feel great. I was nervous like you, and debated waiting as well. Now that I'm on the other side of this whole thing, I can tell you that it isn't as bad as you think it will be. Just pick a good doctor, be patient with rehab and you;ll find yourself wondering why you were ever so scared.
Good luck
Steven A Husted thanks matt i know you are right but i still have that feeling if you know what i mean i tell you thi ... Read more
Steven A Husted thanks matt i know you are right but i still have that feeling if you know what i mean i tell you this web site has been a great uplift you people have been and are great i would really be down if it were not for you people on this site thanks
On July 12, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hello Steven. You have gotten excellent responses with great advice so far at our site. Dear heart-Brother one of the things you really, really, really have to "get" is you are not alone even though it feels like it. Many of us, myself included are having to depend on outside people to step up and help us in this journey. I am thankful to have my husband but just moved into a new place where all old friends are more than 4 hours away and I have to depend on the kindness of neighbors to help me when I return home. You have to be able to ask for help until all of your answers are met and you feel more confident about your care. Eleanor gave you wonderful advice!
You also asked about diabetes and insulin. I have had type 2 diabetes since 1998 and only recently was switched to insulin. It is my understanding that whatever comes up with your diabetic needs will be addressed when you are speaking with your cardiologist and surgeon who will make you feel better about your care.
I am having a Bovine Tissue Valve replacement of my Aortic Valve on Aug. 20th and no issues have come up regarding my use of both metformin and insulin although you may have to stop medications temporarily for your surgery but know that the medical professionals will be monitoring your diabetes throughout any and all procedures.
The worry you are feeling is what we all have felt and I believe if you read all of your posts on this site and take them "to heart" you will see that you have to ease your way out of the "Darkness that hits with all of this" and into a place where you believe that there is no choice but to get this taken care of and try to look forward to getting better and going on with your precious Life.
So, make sure you bring up any questions about your diabetes to the professionals and try to find ways to relieve the stress as it is important to have your glucose levels as controlled as possible going into this as well! So eat well, take your insulin on time and get as much rest as you can-Listen to music and read as a way to take your mind off the roller coaster it can't help but go on from day to day.
Take care of yourself Heart-Brother and think how much better you will feel one day!
Steven A Husted thank you so much terrie i really need this site to lift me up it really helps me to read these journ ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you so much terrie i really need this site to lift me up it really helps me to read these journals you people are my lifeline to getting this surgery done i feel so alone with out my family i wish they were hear but they are gone home to be with the lord i know the lord will see me through this thank you for all your help you people are angels thanks steve
On July 12, 2014...
Eleanor posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hello Steven. I would have a good discussion with your cardiologist about tissue/mechanical valve. Also with your surgeon who is the expert. As others have said, please find a larger hospital with a track record of many valve/bypass surgeries, and a surgeon specialized in this. Lots of folks travel to get their done, and go to a rehab location near the hospital. With insurance, a bit of time (but not much!), and the internet you can see who is who (this website is good for that), and have your cardiologist send your file to the center. Age and medical condition influence valve decision. I'm getting tissue, but then I am 68. My brother is older (71) and while tissue would normally be the best for him, he is already on blood thinners for another condition, so mechanical might be the recommended valve for him, should he need the same operation. Don't think you have heartburn/indigestion, like I did. I was merrily taking antacids and thinking "One more thing! I've never had indigestion before this heart thing". No, that is one of the signs of progressing heart failure. We've got to stop that. With the surgery, your heart like mine and all others', will be improved, and even the size and the shape of the heart will reconfigure itself back to normal (words of my surgeon). So, get moving, lad.
Steven A Husted thank you eleanor you are right on because that is the very way i thought i was having heartburn or i ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you eleanor you are right on because that is the very way i thought i was having heartburn or indigestion with such a heavy feeling on my chest it felt just like heartburn it was so bad i throught maybe a heart attack also but it would ease off after awhile if i sit real still thank you for the information there is so much information on this website it is a big help thanks again steve
On July 11, 2014...
Gabi x posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hi Steve my 'lil old repaired heart bleeds for you! I can say really and truly this waiting and decision making is the absolute worst of having open heart surgery. The waiting outweighs the actual surgery and recovery, pls believe me and if you don't check what others on this site say. Please keep us informed so that we can keep you in our prayers. God is so good! Remember that and don't fret! Sending you good vibes!
Steven A Husted thank you yes god is so good i know it is in his hands but this old flesh is weak and scared the inde ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you yes god is so good i know it is in his hands but this old flesh is weak and scared the indecision is the worst part still not sure which to go with tissue or mech. i really don't want another operation but i wonder about taking coumadin for the rest of my life i don't know if it is that much different than the insulin i take now thanks again steve
On July 11, 2014...
m in cornwall posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hi Steven - i hope you find support in this blog as I have done. I too was so scared and stressed but listening to other people's experience on this blog before their surgery and their return to full health afterwards is inspirational. if your doctor says surgery is necessary dont wait until your health goes downhill. there's a whole lot of life still left to live and personally i am so thankful that their is surgery today to fix it. Fifty years ago there was no choice. if you find yourself getting anxious in those early hours of the molrning and you cant sleep, perhaps you could try meditation. I have found relaxation and meditation really has helped be refocus and now i am looking forward to my surgery so i can get back to how i used to be. lremember we are all on this blog for the same reason and we are here for you when you are scared. love and wishing positive thoughts across the globe.
Steven A Husted yes this web site has been a blessing and has really lifted my sprit and i love adam's book it is so ... Read more
Steven A Husted yes this web site has been a blessing and has really lifted my sprit and i love adam's book it is so full of information and the people who relate there stories on this web site is a great help to know what i have to look forward to thank you so much for your comments
On July 10, 2014...
DVB posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hi Steven.
I am not a doctor but I've done a lot of research on this topic. you can read my journal entries. In particular the one "What happens if my severe aortic stenosis is not treated?" posted back on July 21, 2012. The key paragraph is
"But once symptoms develop and no surgery done, ... On average those folks only had 3 more years (50% gone at 3 years) after the onset of symptoms. The downhill slide is so fast, in fact, that about 4 or 5 percent of patients who scheduled surgery at this point died while waiting. Oof."
Bottom line is aortic stenosis only gets worse, and it worsens quickly.
But the good news is heart surgery lets you beat those odds by a wide margin.
The monthly risk of going without surgery is already the risk of the surgery itself. So there is little point in delay once symptoms develop and the stenosis is graded as "severe".
Having 2 arteries needing bypass means as well that you could end up having emergency bypass (and valve replacement) surgery. Outcomes are better if the surgery is planned - you can go to a specialty center and take advantage of their expertise instead of the pick of the draw at a community hospital. Not to mention you'll tolerate the surgery much better earlier than later.
Surgery is scarey. But the alternative is even scarier. If you can come to an attitude of excitement about what surgery will do for you, then that is a good place to get your head to.
Best to have a frank discussion with your cardiologist/surgeon and seek a second opinion, which will give you confidence in your path.
Also discuss the fact that you are alone and that you'll need some help the first few weeks or month of recovery. Most hospitals have ways of solving that problem. Be sure they are helping you after you are discharged!
Steven A Husted thank you so much your words are a great comfort and so true i guess i just needed someone to tell th ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you so much your words are a great comfort and so true i guess i just needed someone to tell them to me it seems that when i eat a large meal at super time and then at bed time i get a real heavy feeling on my chest ljke a cinder block is resting on my chest and i can't breath so i have to sleep sitting up in bed i guess the stenosis is getting worse every day thank you again for your words and they do help me
On July 10, 2014...
Meredith posted a note for Steven A that says:
PS You could always get cataracts like my mom, then you can't SEE how dirty the house is, and it won't matter any more! HAHA! :)
On July 10, 2014...
Meredith posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hi Steven! I know I was super-anxious the week before i got my surgery date, because NOTHING was certain, even whether I needed surgery or not. Once I met the surgeon and we agreed that I needed the operation, we pulled out our calendars and set a date. A sense of calm came over me - and that lasted about a week. All of the sudden I kept thinking of things that just HAD to be done, and done NOW!
I noticed I was getting a little scatterbrained, so I started making lists and notes. Didn't help me get organized, but I felt better.
Just because you don't have any relatives or close friends doesn't mean there's not someone out there who cares about you. Look at your guestbook here, am I right?
After surgery is way different than before surgery, especially if you'll be going to a rehab center. I had no idea what to expect, even after reading about a hundred journals, because everyone is different. My after-surgery was pretty even-keeled, almost like plodding along slowly and surely. I didn't have a lot of pain, and if I needed help, I usually asked for it (Just an FYI, don't try to clean the bathtub 3 weeks after surgery!)
I'm thinking about you!
Steven A Husted thank you you are so right i need these words of encouragement those were my very thoughts do i reall ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you you are so right i need these words of encouragement those were my very thoughts do i really need this surgery and i do because the simtoms are there and i have seen the blockages on xray myself i can't thank you enough for your help steve
On July 10, 2014...
Eleanor posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hi, Steven. I would say get it done now. From what you describe, you are already having symptoms and as you will have read in Adam's book, the outcome of severe aortic stenosis, with symptoms, is not good. You don't want to wait to be an emergency. For me, I found that once I met the surgeon and got on his schedule, I was actually more peaceful. Still nervous, of course, and a little scared, but now I know that I am going to get things fixed, I am a bit more calm. I have shortness of breath going upstairs and a couple of nights I was short of breath and with pressure in my chest, and could not sleep lying down, had to prop up or sleep in a recliner. These are signs of heart failure, and I was afraid mine would fail while I wait for the surgery (waiting since May 20th, with surgery Monday, July 14th). Be strong, line up a rehab for a week or so afterwards, and get headed towards getting well. But, that's just me, you have decide what is right for you. Best wishes to you.
Steven A Husted thank you eleanor i have had the same simtons i can not go up any stairs with out getting out of brea ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you eleanor i have had the same simtons i can not go up any stairs with out getting out of breath and when i lay flat i get out of breath and get a pressure in my chest and have to sit up in bed to sleep and have a fear of not wakeing up sometimes thank you for your kind words you have helped me with some of my fears
On July 9, 2014...
Eleanor posted a note for Steven A that says:
Steve, please make a list of the questions you want to ask, and print it out to take with you. There will be so much information, you might forget otherwise. I know I did, even with the list, and my daughter holding the list and writing the answers! Nerves seem to get in the way! Take time to write down what the doctors say, too, or you will be in your car saying "what was that he said?". Read, take notes, relax. You will become your very best patient advocate. I wish you the best.
On July 9, 2014...
Meredith Bray posted a note for Steven A that says:
YES, IT DOES GET BETTER AFTER SURGERY! I'm 4 months post-op, and am a thousand times better than I was a year ago. I have no difficulty breathing, can walk for miles without getting winded, and have enough energy to take care of myself and my house again. I used to come home from work at 4:00 and fall asleep in my car in the driveway. I used to vacuum the house in 3-minute intervals. I used to avoid shopping because it was so tiring. No more! And the worst part of the surgery....was WAITING for the surgery and the 24 hours right after. It's all a blur now, thanks to some really amazing drugs :) Adam's book is so helpful, as well as one called Coping With Heart Surgery and Bypassing Depression. If you can find a copy, I highly HIGHLY recommend it.
Steven A Husted thank you meredith you make me feel better just reading your comments adams book is a blessing and i ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you meredith you make me feel better just reading your comments adams book is a blessing and i love this site it really helps to read these journals thank you for your post it really helps thanks steve
On July 8, 2014...
Susan Smith posted a note for Steven A that says:
Steve, I am a recent OHS patient. I am 2 1/2 months out form surgery and recovering well. After the surgery I was discharged to a Rehab facility and it was the best thing I did. I had some family coming in to help, but I really needed the Rehab facility. My Medicare Advantage insurance policy covered it , all but $100 which I paid. So do check it out. I am now on my own and am driving and off all restrictions. Your options are to have surgery or not to have surgery. If you do not have surgery then you will get weaker and weaker until...... Surgery is really the best choice for you. You can do it. I am 73 and somewhat over weight. First I lost 50 pounds and that was a good start. I have continued to lose weight after the surgery. Read some of the journals and be encouraged. You can do it. Do keep us all posted as we have all been where you are right now.
Steven A Husted thank you susan i hope i can do the same if just for a few days it would be a big help i am sure i ha ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you susan i hope i can do the same if just for a few days it would be a big help i am sure i have medicare and a second insurance fed. bcbs they should have something to cover a stay in a rehab center thanks steve
On July 8, 2014...
Eleanor posted a note for Steven A that says:
Hi, again, I just noticed your previous journal entry about the rehab center. I would call your insurance provider. Maybe you have Medicare? Call the number on the back of your card, or go onto their website, for I am sure there must be a provision for after-care.
Best of luck to you.
Steven A Husted thank you eleanor i am going to try that yes i do have medicare i think they do have something that c ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you eleanor i am going to try that yes i do have medicare i think they do have something that covers that thanks again
On July 8, 2014...
Eleanor posted a note for Steven A that says:
Steven, you might want to look into what your health insurance will cover by way of a rehab center. A couple of my friends that live alone did not want to be released directly to home, and were able to spend a week or so at a rehabilitation center, until they felt more able to care for themselves. Or, Medicare or a supplemental might may for in-home visits to help you. I think the main thing is to not be afraid to ask.
I have a small family network, and I am the first of us to need help, so I am blessed, but I know how hard it would be for me to ask as, like you, I have mainly been the provider.
The only way I can tackle cleaning and clearing any more is to do one task a day, and a very short day that is. Yesterday, for example, I put away clutter and threw away magazines/newspapers/unneeded papers from the living room. I sorted while sitting down, for until I have a new valve, I can't do much more than that. Set yourself tiny goals, and you'll feel "accomplished".
Good luck to you Steven.
Steven A Husted thank you eleanor that is a very good idea i am going to try that we have a rehab center close by and ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you eleanor that is a very good idea i am going to try that we have a rehab center close by and my brother stayed there some years ago yes you are right one day at a time one small tast at a time thanks
On July 8, 2014...
Terrie posted a note for Steven A that says:
Good Morning Steven.
I just read your story and journal entries.
Boy! You have been handed a lot to deal with.
It is hard after caring for others to find yourself in a position to need help from others when you are not used to it, isn't it?
But now is the time to ask for help and reinforcement. We all(in our heart community)facing the same things as you so Steven, you are not alone. We are all here for each other and I hope you will keep checking in and letting us know how you are doing.
I do not have Family to help either other than my Husband(Gary) who is my rock. I am sorry that you are in the position you are in right now and hope that you will find a way to get the help you need. I would think that maybe your insurance company might be able to give you some ideas on where to turn for assistance.
Do you have any neighbors or friends you can ask for help? I am going to have to rely on a few of my new neighbors for help. Asking for help isn't easy when you are used to taking care of yourself but it is necessary.
You might also look into a nearby Church where you live to see if there are any members willing to step in at this time to help you.
Are there any Senior Centers near you that you can inquire to as it might be a good source of health care for you being most of us are experiencing health issues and have needed help.
I hope you find what you need soon so that the added stress load can lessen.
You are in my prayers today and I will check your posts for how you are doing.
You are not alone.
Regards, Terrie
Steven A Husted thanks terrie it is times like these i wish i had made more friends but i am a loner and never had ti ... Read more
Steven A Husted thanks terrie it is times like these i wish i had made more friends but i am a loner and never had time for friends being a caregiver for dad then mom then brother even my neighbors are not that close most lots are 2 or 3 acres and they kind of keep to themselves i might try a rehab care center near by thanks again keep me in your prayers
On July 7, 2014...
Ginger of Oz posted a note for Steven A that says:
Steven,
Great name! That is the name we chose for our son! I think Karen has a really good suggestion in asking while in the hospital. Often a social worker will know many options and can help figure out which are accessible to you.
I have some worries myself about coming home from the hospital, although I think just the fact that I am home will give me a psychological lift.
Our kids are young adults now living on their own and my husband is on call with some totally unpredictable hours. I have times when I rarely see him for 30 minutes a day for days on end.
I know when my father-in-law ended up in an unexpected condition after surgery, we had a meeting with a social worker who was helpful. Hopefully you will find the same.
Al the best and prayers coming your way,
Steven A Husted thank you ginger i might try an ask a social worker at the hospital before i have the surgery it woul ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you ginger i might try an ask a social worker at the hospital before i have the surgery it would give me a pease of mind please keep me in your prayers thanks steve
On July 7, 2014...
Dora posted a note for Steven A that says:
Dear Steven,
You will have many supporters on this site. I had valve replacement in Feb, and although it can be a scary experience my trust and faith in God is what got me through. He hears our prayers! You are not alone, you will have many people praying for you. God bless
Steven A Husted thank you dora for your kind words and do keep me in your prayers thanks again steve
On July 7, 2014...
Marci Stanwix posted a note for Steven A that says:
Steven,
You have come to a very good place for this exact situation. We have all been through it or are going to be going through it soon. Here you can share your emotions with people similar to you and the ones of us that have already can reassure you. I had my Aortic Valve replaced in December of 2013. The waiting and wondering is truly grueling and can eat you alive if you let it. In some respects it might be a good idea to get it over with sooner rather than later so you can get on with life.
I found the actual surgery part to be pretty easy really. I didn't hurt near as bad as I thought I would. The first few days are very foggy and I don't remember much. The tube removal was not fun but over pretty quickly. The third day seemed to be the most uncomfortable I think that is due to the medication reduction.
If you can possibly go to a rehab center for a few days after to get further on your feet then you wouldn't need anyone at home. I had family in and out for a few days but after that I was home alone and managed very well.
Ask any questions you want.
Hugs!
Steven A Husted thank you marci this is just what i needed to hear most people i talk to say the same thing get it do ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you marci this is just what i needed to hear most people i talk to say the same thing get it done sooner than later most people say the operation was not as bad as they thought except for the healing of the brest bone thank you for your words about making out pretty well on your own after a few days with help thanks again
On July 7, 2014...
Julia Hsu posted a note for Steven A that says:
Steven,
I am sorry to hear that you are alone to deal with this major surgery. The surgery itself should be fine if you have a good surgeon. In the hospital they will take good care of you. But you need to make plans for the first few weeks back home. You won't be able to drive. You can't lift more than 10 lbs for 8 weeks. Some simple things, e.g. Opening a twist cap, would be hard. You can't reach far. Maybe you can ask a neighbor to help or hire temporary help for a couple of weeks. Good luck.
Steven A Husted thank you julia yes it is going to be very hard doing this alone but i hope i will manage somehow i m ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you julia yes it is going to be very hard doing this alone but i hope i will manage somehow i may try to go to rehab right after surgery instead of waiting not sure if that is possible but will try
On July 7, 2014...
Karen Pineda posted a note for Steven A that says:
Steven,
All I can say Steven is that I understand. Being alone and dealing with heart surgery is no easy thing. The surgery is scary enough without the added stress of being alone.
I would say that maybe you need to discuss with your doctors your stress about being alone when you come home from the hospital. I'll bet they can assign you a case manager or someone at the hospital that will explain your options to you. Perhaps there is home nursing care that they can put you in touch with. As long as time allows and you have time to plan, it would be beneficial, and may ease your mind, if that can be worked out prior to surgery. Let your feelings be known, don't be shy, tell them you will need help after the surgery.
Best of luck to you. Keep us posted.
Steven A Husted thank you karen what type of valve do you have or going to have this is very scary my fear is startin ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you karen what type of valve do you have or going to have this is very scary my fear is starting to come back this site is a blessing it really helps to read other stories of people who have gone thru this thanks
On July 7, 2014...
Tom Huskisson posted a note for Steven A that says:
Steven:
I understand and so do the rest of the wonderful people that are a part of this community. I just went through a aortic valve replacement, aortic aneurysm repair, triple bypass, and had to have a permanent pacemaker inserted also.This was all done in October 2013. It is a scary event in anyone's life but just know that you will have a lot of people praying for you and to answer your questions. I first found out in 1974 that I had heart murmur and in 1994 found out that it was due to a bicuspid aortic valve. This was monitored over the years with the expectation that I would have to have it replaced in my late 50s. Last year when they were checking, they found the aneurysm , which sometimes occurs in conjunction with bicuspid valves. The blockages were found when they did cardiac catherization. I talked with my cardiologist and several surgeons and decided to have it done at Duke University Medical Center. Don't be afraid to ask questions here about any aspect of these procedures. There is lots of info here and lots of people to share their experiences with you. From my own personal experience, God is faithful, hears our prayers, and will guide you and your care providers through this journey. Keep us updated. God bless you !
Steven A Husted thank you tom what was the pain like after surgery if i remember my kidney operations were very painf ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you tom what was the pain like after surgery if i remember my kidney operations were very painful back in 1971 and 1972 what kind of valve did you have put in tissue or mech.
My surgery was July 2nd and I have not had a lot of pain. The nurses keep on top of it and encourage you not to let the pain get bad. If you have had other surgeries and kidney stones. I think you will tolerate it well. We are all scared going into it. I just reluctantly made the decision and kept taking steps forward.
Your concern about being alone might be a bigger deal and definitely something you should check into before surgery: Home care? rehab? support groups? meals on wheels?
Best of luck.