On January 30, 2014...
Araminta posted a note for Susan that says:
We are all glad to hear that you are doing well. Take it slow, listen to your doctor, and you will be back on your feet in no time.

Blessings for a quick recovery.
On January 29, 2014...
Monika Miller posted a note for Susan that says:
Great news on Sue's progress! Dennis, you are doing a terrific job on the support end and in keeping us neighbors informed. We're sure glad you are on the other side of the surgery.
On January 29, 2014...
Vicky posted a note for Susan that says:
I love being able to check in with Anita. I know that she will check her texts more regularly than Dennis. ha ha. She replies at all times of the day and night but is a little late in the morning hours. ha ha...I'm joking in relief that all is going as well as can be expected, Sue. Be patient with yourself but embrace your spirometer. It is your friend. i have been on pins and needles and have thanked heaven that you are back with us, Sue. You are very precious to us. PLease breath deeply for us.

Love, Vicky
On January 29, 2014...
Dick and Shirley Espey posted a note for Susan that says:
What wonderful news for Sue's surgery. Dick and I have been thinking of her, Denny, Brian, and Anita. Our prayers are with you and look forward to a visit once Sue is feeling up to it. Appreciate the journal -- helps during stressful times. Way to go!!!!
On January 29, 2014...
Jeanette posted a note for Susan that says:
I am so happy everything went well! ;)
BEST WISHES for a
S P E E D Y * R E C O V E R Y!
We miss you...take care!
Keep us updated.
See you at 100%!
On January 29, 2014...
Laura Hagen posted a note for Susan that says:
We've been thinking about you and sending you well wishes from the clinic!! Thanks for keeping us posted on your progress, we're glad to hear you're doing well. We miss you and look forward to seeing your smiling face :)
On January 29, 2014...
Lor Libert posted a note for Susan that says:
Sue and Dennis, so glad to hear all went very well. Ok, a blip in there, but it wouldn't be any fun if there wasn't a blip, right. And you are having fun, aren't you? Ok, you know my Boston sarcasm. Hoping you are going to just fly through your recovery. Good job with the update Hubby. We wish you well. They are talking Mike home on Monday.
On January 29, 2014...
Sandy Hawkshaw posted a note for Susan that says:
Sue and Dennis,
Gosh I didn't know this was going on....but glad the surgery went well and both Jim and I wish you a speedy recovery!.

Jim and Sandy
On January 29, 2014...
marcia posted a note for Susan that says:
susan, so glad to hear things went well and your on the road to a great recovery and long life.
On January 29, 2014...
Susan Smith posted a note for Susan that says:
Susan and Dennis, great to hear that the surgery is over and Successful. Praying for a smooth recovery.
On January 28, 2014...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Susan that says:
Glad to hear that the surgery went well. I will continue to keep Susan in my prayers. Anxious to read her journal entries as she recovers.
On January 27, 2014...
Cheryl Crosier posted a note for Susan that says:
Hi Sue,
Just checking in. I imagine today feels like the calm before a big storm. You've prepared in every way possible and now you're just anxiously waiting for the storm to come and go so you can move to recovery mode. You are more prepared than you think and stronger than you know. You're in my thoughts and prayers and I'm looking forward to the first update about your successful surgery.
On January 27, 2014...
Maureen Hoganson posted a note for Susan that says:
Hi Susan--Just wanted to respond to your message! I, too, was quite worried about what would happen once I came to after the surgery. For some reason, I was really worried that I wouldn't remember things--or that I couldn't play the piano (played since the 3rd grade...) However, I woke up to a perky nurse telling me to breath as much as I could--and then I heard her ask my husband what kind of music I would like to listen to. He asked what kind of piano music they had--so he said how about David Foster. When the music started playing, I tried to play along with my fingers--wrists still tied down and all! Once I woke up, all sorts of current things began to run through my head--so I was very relieved at that point. I just remember trying to speak--and not being able to because of the tubes. I don't really remember them taking out the breathing tubes or having any issues with that--but it seemed not long after my surgery because by the time it was dark, the breathing tubes were gone...Just lots of wires, IV tubes, neck tube, etc., as you are hooked up to variety of machines. My main problem in ICU was that my blood pressure kept dropping and it would make me sick to my stomach, etc. The ICU nurse was excellent--and realized once they pumped me with glucose--my pressure stabilized and kept me from being ill. It is all a little surreal--but by the next morning, I had a better idea of everything that was taking place. By that afternoon (would have been sooner had I not had the low blood press issues), they had me walk for the first time and moved me to the Cardiac step down unit (which was on Thanksgiving!) As my husband says, it was the one of the best and worst Thanksgivings that we've had--but we were so thankful to have successfully gotten through the surgery. Hopefully, you will be able to sit in a comfy spot and enjoy the Superbowl--but just know you will likely be sore and very tired. However, that is something fun to look forward to--and we will pray for a quick recovery for you--Just take it slowly--I have to remind myself to do that constantly, but it really does speed up your recovery!!!! Best to you--and will watch for updates!
On January 26, 2014...
Glenn Oden posted a note for Susan that says:
Hi Susan,
I'm three weeks post-op with the same operation. I'd echo what Deb said, the breathing tube is not nice, but it comes out while you're still pretty pain-free from the drugs. The next thing is the drain tubes. They keep you from breathing comfortably or moving, but they too come out in the first couple days. When they're out you'll feel so good that you'll want to go home.
I know the anxiety, but when it's done it'll all be worth it. For advice, be extremely careful while drinking. You don't want to doing anything that will cause you to cough. Coughing is the worst thing imaginable after heart surgery. My wife asked if I wanted her to call 911 after my first coughing fit at home. It was that bad.
From a guys point of view, I wouldn't take much with you. Robes are a waste with all those tubes. I enjoyed reading and listening to my iPod. Sodukos made the time pass, as well.
I believe in a powerful God who answers prayer, so I'll be praying with you.
On January 26, 2014...
Deb Ziegler posted a note for Susan that says:
Hi Susan,

I woke up with the breathing tube in, and I remember it being extremely uncomfortable, but not painful. I also remember my nurse telling me to concentrate on breathing on my own because as soon as I could do that, they would pull the tube. They pulled it about an hour later. I was very awake for that, but it wasn't bad at all. It was actually just a relief. I didn't have any sternal pain for the first thirty six hours because they froze it while i was still under and it took a good day or so to wear off. After that, the pain was minimal. I was definitely sore, but it was very managable. The most pain I had was from the drainage tube, and that came out about twenty four hours after surgery, and I immediately felt better after that thing was out. You will be extremely fatigued......it takes a lot of effort to do anything those first few days, but you just have to do what you're told so you can get out of there! I was terrified of the breathing tube and the pain before I went in, and I can tell you neither one were bad at all. Certainly weren't as bad as I was imagining!

As for what I brought/used in the hospital, I would say the best things were my own Jammie's and my own pillow. I was really glad to have them both. I also used my iPad a lot. I brought books, but I really couldn't concentrate enough to read. You will be busy sleeping or walking or breathing into your spirometer most of the time anyway.

All the best on surgery day. You will be in my thoughts and prayers for a successful surgery and a full and speedy recovery!

On January 26, 2014...
jeff o posted a note for Susan that says:
For me I was surprised at how much less pain I had right after surgery than I anticipated. The pain pump allowed me to readily control my pain. Overall pain in the hospital wasn't bad at all. I had more pain once I got home and started to feel better and did more things. Also, I kept doing too much too soon and hurting myself. So remember....rest, go slow and heal. Baby shampoo for showers and one of those aluminum long handled grabbers like people use to pick up litter was very helpful. Oh...and a heating pad.
On January 26, 2014...
Heather St. Pierre posted a note for Susan that says:
Susan,

I certainly understand your feelings with your upcoming surgery. I had to let you know I vaguely remember waking with the tube , my family said I would awaken for brief minutes only to fall back to sleep. The nurses kept me quite sedated and pain free.
Thinking of you with many prayers !
On January 26, 2014...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Susan that says:
Susan,
I just read your response to me. I do not remember the breathing tube. When I really "came to" in the ICU I only had the breathing mask on me. All my family remembers seeing me with the breathing tube and they still talk about it. I just remember that in the ICU that the tubes in my abs and sides really hurt me and those tubes stayed in for several days.
I'm glad you read my journal. Be sure to take note of the details from Nov. 22 entry. Some of those ideas will help you, especially the fact that you will not be able to wear an underwire bra(I still can't wear one)Also be sure to do lots of walking while you are recovering.
I assume that they will be repairing your your aneurysm also? It sounds like they will be able to do a lot in one surgery and you will be as good as new! Prayers will continue your way!
On January 26, 2014...
Lor posted a note for Susan that says:
Susan, from my experience, I would say a light weight robe as they always want you up and walking.
Also either an MP3 player or iPod for music or books. It helps especially at night when there are noises you aren't use to. A favorite book is best. Set the sleep timer and let yourself drift off. You won't worry about missing a part of the book because you know the story.
A battery operated toothbrush, your arms may be sore along with your chest.
A head band or scarf until you can do something with your hair.
I would say things along that line, little things that make you feel comfortable and easy to use.
Do not forget chargers for everything and label anything you bring with you. Find a way to mark everything, no matter what it is.
Grippy non slip slippers.
Loose comfy return home clothes and Mike says sucking candies because the air is dry in the hospital.
On January 24, 2014...
Lor posted a note for Susan that says:
Thinking of you as your big day approaches. It is really hard to wait for something this important, this scary, this necessary. But I know you can do it! You are strong, you have a loving family, lots of friends and neighbors all cheering you on. Go Sue Strong!!!
Susan Muhly  Thanks Lor. I tried to call you this morning and will try again this evening. I hope you and Mighty M ... Read more
On January 24, 2014...
Carol Jackson posted a note for Susan that says:
Susan,
Part of your diagnosis is like my diagnosis. I was born with a BAV and developed an anuersym which they monitored for 5 years. It got to be 5 cm. this Aug., so I went to Mayo in Rochester, MN for my surgery. the surgery turned out to be repair of my ascending aortic anuerysm and they did not have to replace my BAV. The surgeon said that by fixing my anuersym, my valve would work better and I wouldnt have to have it replaced for another 15-20 years. I look forward to following your surgery. The best to you and I will keep you in my prayers.
Susan Muhly  I just read your entire journal and found it so inspiring! Thank you for reaching out to me. As you k ... Read more
On January 23, 2014...
Vicky Panaccione posted a note for Susan that says:
Thanks for sending me this link. You are a strong woman, Sue with a wonderful loving family and many supportive friends. How I wish I could be here for your complete recovery after surgery. I will make it up to you when we are both in Bend one day. You'll have to make me pay BIG TIME!
Susan Muhly  Ohh, I will definitely make you pay BIG TIME!
On January 23, 2014...
Monika Miller posted a note for Susan that says:
Sue- So glad we will have this link to you! Have enjoyed your Hawaii trip posts and hope your time there was as wonderful as the pictures showed. We are right around the corner from you, so please be close in touch with any ways we can help. Will be praying for a successful procedure and recovery.

Susan Muhly  Hawaii was truly wonderful and it definitely got my mind off of the surgery. Thanks for your prayers, ... Read more
On January 23, 2014...
Avis McHugh posted a note for Susan that says:
Hi Susan,
It is good to hear from you. I am glad you and Denny are enjoying some time in the sun.

You already know that I have you in my heart and want to help whenever you have need.
Love, Avis
Susan Muhly  Thanks Avis!! I am at work now but will call you this weekend.
On January 20, 2014...
Dora posted a note for Susan that says:
Hi Susan, you will be in my thoughts and my prayers on 1/28. My surgery is 2/13. Reading the different stories and how people recover is a big help. What keeps me motivated is my 2 beautiful grandchildren and the wedding of my daughter in May. God Bless you
Susan Muhly  Thank you Dora! I will see if I can locate your journal and read your story. My family keeps me going ... Read more
On January 20, 2014...
Maureen Hoganson posted a note for Susan that says:
Hi Susan, Glad to hear that you are less apprehensive about your surgery. It is not an easy road--but a very doable road! I am 46 and found out that I had a congenital bicuspid valve when I was in my early 30's following the birth of our second child. I recently had my aortic valve replaced the day after Thanksgiving because the stenosis had increased from mild to severe over that time, and they told me they could not restart my heart if it stopped for any reason. Because I don't do well with medications. love my greens and tend to bleed easily, I did not think I would be a good candidate for blood thinners. I know that I will most likely have to have a re-op, but they have found the risk of being on blood thinners and having a re-op carry about the same risk. (Prior to studies, they would encourage younger patients to do mechanical valves.) That being said, I feel like I made the best decision for me--and only have to take baby aspirin now. The trade off is that we don't know how long the bovine valve will last. 10-20 years is what my surgeon says--and usually less time the younger you are. Sounds like you have done your research--and will definitely pray that your surgery goes well--and that you recover quickly! By the way, my grandmother has a mitral valve prolapse and is 94 1/2! Best to you and your family as you continue this journey!
Susan Muhly  I read your journal Maureen and am glad you are doing so well. It helps so much to hear other AV pati ... Read more
On January 19, 2014...
Tom in Kansas City posted a note for Susan that says:
Susan,
Welcome to the club. I am 56 plus and have known about my bicuspid aorta since I was 8. Been closely monitoring it yearly for the pst 10 years. When the discovered what it was (I had a catherization when I was 8), the doctors told my parents then that I old have to have it fixed when I was in my 50's. Amazing they could know it then.
They also thought I hd minor issues with my mitral valve then, but it cleared up with time.
Anyway, I had my aorta valve replaced (bovine tissue) and the aorta replaced with Dacron. Amazing what they can do. I had several people ask me "if you've known about your whole life then why wait so long". To which I answer, we closely monitored it for 10 years, the technology and the surgical methods have advanced o much in the last few years, and the time seem right.
For what it's worth - and everyone and every situation is different - I chose the tissue valve. I I don't want to have to take blood thinners for ever, and I believe it will be more common to insert a mechanical aorta valve for lower risk patients in 15 to 20 years. Like I say, we all have to make that determination. My surgeon was very clear that that was my choice (but I knew what he would do if it was him).
Anyway, I wish you good luck, and I send you and your family my prayers. I truly believe that God has been right there for all of us, guiding us on decisions, and helping the surgeons and medical staff and our families.
Best wishes,
Tom in Kansas City.
Note: my wife Vicki and I really enjoy your part of the world. Looking forward to a return trip to the area. We really enjoyed Mt St Helen's and the natural regrowth. It erupted the day I graduated college. Last year e met a couple on our Alaskan cruise that own a farm in the area and they told us first hand accounts of he eruption and damage. The resorts at Yachets on the coast were our absolute favorite. We had not planned to stay there, but in a twist of faith and timing, we found the Overleaf Lodge in Yachets. Just an awesome place to spend our 30th anniversary. We'll get back there someday.
Susan Muhly  If you head back to the beautiful northwest someday I would really like to meet you! I was in Washing ... Read more
On January 19, 2014...
Jim Jones posted a note for Susan that says:
Hey Susan:
Looks like you have most everything lined up. I don't know what you have decided re: your mitral valve. Here is my story. I had severe MVP. I worked hard to find a surgeon that could repair my complex mitral valve. Everything I read and heard supported repair over replacement.

It is a personal decision. What percent chance for repair does your Dr. offer you? How complex is the repair and what does your Dr. say about repair durability? You have to understand the expected durability v. reoperation likelihood because these are things you think about after the surgery. Good luck with your decision. All the best.
Susan Muhly  I am leaning towards repair of the mitral valve. My surgeon told me there is a 6% chance the repair c ... Read more
Susan Muhly  Hi Jim,
Can I ask what did your surgeion tell you about the possiblity of your mitral valve repair fa ... Read more
On January 19, 2014...
Susan Smith, from one Susan to another. posted a note for Susan that says:
Susan, I just love talking to myself (to another Susan) lol. No date as of yet. I see my cardio o 3/7/14 but last visit he talked about valve replacement surgery. He also said he wanted to do more test. I have already had a TEE and that is when I found out about the bicuspid valve. So I wait. The 28th is coming soon and you will do fine. Did you decide to do anything with the mitral valve?
Susan Muhly  Hi Susan,
I enjoy talking to myself (to another Susan) as well. I have read your journal and wish you ... Read more
On January 16, 2014...
Susan Smith,pre-op and waiting posted a note for Susan that says:
Welcome to the Community. I'm pre -op and so do not know how to answer your questions. Hopefully some one will chime in. Do keep us posted.
Susan Muhly  Thank you Susan. I have been pleasantly distracted as I am on vacation and have actually not thought ... Read more