JoAnen Banzhaf - Heart Valve Journal

My Journal

3313 days ago

Things have been going well with the AVR. I had to have pacemaker and have a hard time keeping my INR in range but that has been the only issue I have. Since ...Read more

Things have been going well with the AVR. I had to have pacemaker and have a hard time keeping my INR in range but that has been the only issue I have. Since I had a mechanical valve this time I am very aware of possible infections. I just got the letter that CDC released about possible infection from the heater cooler machine. In the time period that they stated I had 2 aortic replacement surgeries. I was wondering if anyone in this community has gotten the NTM infection? I plan on a visit with my cardiologist at the hospital that I had my surgery in January and will be asking them more questions. I assumed since the hospital sent the letter that they use this brand of heater cooler unit? Would love to hear from anyone with more info on NTM. Thanks

Diane Zeigler Has anyone else received a letter from the CDC about this possibility of this infection? I have not ... Read more

Diane Zeigler Has anyone else received a letter from the CDC about this possibility of this infection? I have not received anything.

JoAnen Banzhaf I received the letter from the Mayo clinic telling me of the CDC update. There is info on CDC update ... Read more

JoAnen Banzhaf I received the letter from the Mayo clinic telling me of the CDC update. There is info on CDC update on Adam's blog.

Phyllis Petersen I saw the write-up. I certainly hope that you are not affected by this. Good luck with getting the ot ... Read more

Phyllis Petersen I saw the write-up. I certainly hope that you are not affected by this. Good luck with getting the other issues in line and continued progress in your recovery.

Christine Kline Glad to know you are getting back to normal. It has got to have been tough going through this twice- ... Read more

Christine Kline Glad to know you are getting back to normal. It has got to have been tough going through this twice--but glad to know you are still planning on returning to all of your favorite activities. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Chris K

Catie B Congratulations on your recovery. One of my family members never could get regulated properly on warf ... Read more

Catie B Congratulations on your recovery. One of my family members never could get regulated properly on warfarin, but when she switched to name-brand Coumadin, things settled down.

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3513 days ago

Wanda Mroz, Kate Watson, Stephen Doherty and 5 others reacted to this

Hi everyone, Well things are finally starting to feel like normal. It has been harder with the redo on the valve and getting a pacemaker but I am finally ...Read more

Hi everyone, Well things are finally starting to feel like normal. It has been harder with the redo on the valve and getting a pacemaker but I am finally starting to feel back to normal. I had an appointment with my cardiologist last Friday. He said that I am doing well. I have had a couple bouts of A-fib but he is not to worried about it at this point. I have about 10 more sessions of cardiac rehab. I have made friends in the group and we push each other. I started back to work full time. My stamina is not where i want but I am gaining. I have been out in my kayak once so far but the ice is off the lakes now so I plan on getting out there more often. Still not able to climb hills very efficiently yet when I go hiking, but hoping that gets better as I keep hiking. Wishing the very best for everyone facing surgery. It is well worth it.

Steven A Husted dont push your self to hard a little bit every day slow and easy

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3555 days ago

Kate Watson, Barbara Laurie and 5 others reacted to this

HI Well I had a visit with my Cardiologist this past Friday. He said the valve is doing very good, They did and echo, EKG, and a device check on my pacemaker. ...Read more

HI Well I had a visit with my Cardiologist this past Friday. He said the valve is doing very good, They did and echo, EKG, and a device check on my pacemaker. He has me on 180 mg of Diltiazem now and of course Warfarin.I have allergy testing on the 24th. I will be glad to know what drug I am allergic to so I can avoid that. I have to go back and see him in a month. I still have my INR checked weekly because we haven't gotten it leveled out yet. I have had 3 sessions of cardiac rehab and it is going well but I exercise at home. I am excited to get back in the pool next week for aerobic classes. I really need to concentrate and getting my stamina back as I need to go back to work soon. I also need to drop a few pounds so the exercise is good. I have a sister reunion in June and we are doing some kayaking on the Colorado River below Hoover Dam. It should be fun but I need to get my arm strength back. Hope all of you on this journey have the best results. JoAnen

Kate Watson Sounds like you've had a scary time with allergic reactions. I sure hope they get that figured out s ... Read more

Kate Watson Sounds like you've had a scary time with allergic reactions. I sure hope they get that figured out soon! That sister reunion sounds like a great plan, I want to plan something cool with my sisters after surgery!

Janet R So good to hear from you again and that your valve is doing well. Hope the allergies are resolved so ... Read more

Janet R So good to hear from you again and that your valve is doing well. Hope the allergies are resolved soon. Sounds like a fun trip. Be well.

Meredith Bray 1. You are not going to believe how good it will feel to get back in the pool!
2. kayaking? That's gr ... Read more

Meredith Bray 1. You are not going to believe how good it will feel to get back in the pool!
2. kayaking? That's great! I think it really helps ward off depression after surgery if you have a goal to work toward. Mine was riding roller coasters in Tennessee. Have a ball!
-Meredith

Wanda Mroz Sounds like you are back on track... Glad you are doing better!💞

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3575 days ago

Gail Magnus, Whitney Nelson, Barbara Laurie and 4 others reacted to this

I got out of the hospital yesterday afternoon. They still don't have the answer as to what I am allergic too. They took me off Metoprolol and put me on Diliazem. ...Read more

I got out of the hospital yesterday afternoon. They still don't have the answer as to what I am allergic too. They took me off Metoprolol and put me on Diliazem. I have been off the antibiotic that they thought might be causing the problem for 6 days. I am still getting the rash but managing it so far with Benydryl every 4-6 hours and Prednisone. I am working on getting into an allergist. Sounds like it may be a couple weeks to get in. Until we get it figured out I will be carrying an epi pen. The heart valve did good even with all the added pressure it was under. Thanks for all the support and prayers.

Steven A Husted dear lord be with my brother and see him thru this journey amen

Janet R Praying that the allergy gets resolved soon as you continue to heal and get stronger.

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3577 days ago

Ed Miskovic, Lynee Casper and 5 others reacted to this

Went to ER Thursday evening for anaphylaxis. I was treated and released with steroids. By Friday noon my rash was coming back. By 2:00 pm my throat was starting ...Read more

Went to ER Thursday evening for anaphylaxis. I was treated and released with steroids. By Friday noon my rash was coming back. By 2:00 pm my throat was starting to swell shut so back to ER. Went another round of steroids and Epinephrine. It cleared up rash. I saw my cardiologist and he thinks that I had an allergic reaction to antibiotics that I took after returning home. Since I had 2 episodes in less that 24 hours they admitted me. Got full body rash Friday evening so another round of epinephrine, steroids, antihistamines. About 4:45 am Saturday I broke out again. Another round of epinephrine at 5:30 am. It sure makes rash go away but it gives you the shakes really bad. I found out that walking halls helps. I can't wait to get this under control and back home.

Gail Magnus Bummer, JoAnen! Sorry to hear you're having major allergic reactions to ABX. Hang in there...this w ... Read more

Gail Magnus Bummer, JoAnen! Sorry to hear you're having major allergic reactions to ABX. Hang in there...this will be in the past soon.

kathleen savoy So sorry JoAnen. I pray you that you feel better soon.

Jean Raber Oh my gosh, that is so scary! My mother had a reaction like that (but thank God not after her AVR). Y ... Read more

Jean Raber Oh my gosh, that is so scary! My mother had a reaction like that (but thank God not after her AVR). Yes, epi gives you the shakes, and I hope you will feel better soon. Are they going to give you a different atibiotic?

Wanda Mroz Oh goodness... I'm so sorry. Feel better soon!💐

Lynee Casper Take care JoAnen!

JoAnen Banzhaf Thanks for all the support. It helps make this journey more manageable.

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3578 days ago

Barbara Laurie and 4 others reacted to this

Well the roller coaster ride continues. I had an appt. with my cardiologist and a device check for my pacemaker. She said that the leads to my pacemaker are ...Read more

Well the roller coaster ride continues. I had an appt. with my cardiologist and a device check for my pacemaker. She said that the leads to my pacemaker are scarring in good.She will make some adjustments to the setting on my next visit. She said it ought to be good for 12 years. I am staying in range with my INR. My cardiologist said that the valve was working well. My incisions looked good. He did tell me that I have 30-50% chance that I will need a different pacemaker because mine has 2 leads and he said all chambers of my heart are not in sync so may have to have a pacemaker with 3 leads. He has me scheduled for an echo in a month to check it out. I have been getting stronger but it seems slow to me. Two days ago I developed a rash. I took Benadryl and it helped. Last night after dinner and my night meds I broke out rally bad. It wasn't long and my lips started swelling and throat started closing. Dick took me to the ER and they treated me for anaphylaxis reaction. I don't have allergies except to one drug. I haven't changed anything except meds for the heart. I was wondering if anyone else has had allergies to Warfarin? I have to go to allergist and get it figured out. I notified my cardiologist and I am waiting to hear what he thinks it might be. I am definitely ready for some normalcy in my life again. Thanks for all the support and prayers to everyone going through this.

Ed Miskovic In 2005, I took Coumadin for possible mini-strokes. Both my forearms swelled & bruised, so I was put ... Read more

Ed Miskovic In 2005, I took Coumadin for possible mini-strokes. Both my forearms swelled & bruised, so I was put on aspirin (325 mg) instead. In the past some doctors shrugged my reaction off. But my cardiac surgeon, Dr. McCarthy of Nothwestern Memorial in Chicago, considered it an allergic reaction and prescribed aspirin post-op after my recent aortic valve replacement. So far everything is going really well. The best to you.

Wanda Mroz I took warfarin for 3 months without any issues other than bad bruises. However swelling is a side e ... Read more

Wanda Mroz I took warfarin for 3 months without any issues other than bad bruises. However swelling is a side effect albeit rare. Could be you are one of those people. I hope they figure it out. Feel better...

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3586 days ago

Janet R, Kathleen F., Linda Hillman and 3 others reacted to this

Well things are going pretty good. I am getting stronger and having less pain. I started on the treadmill since it is very icy outside. I hit my goal of 10,000 ...Read more

Well things are going pretty good. I am getting stronger and having less pain. I started on the treadmill since it is very icy outside. I hit my goal of 10,000 steps today. I hope to try and increase that each day. I can't get into cardiac rehab until mid March so I guess I will be doing it on my own. I am very excited for tomorrow because I will find out if I got any hunting permits that I put in for. That will determine how hard I need to push. Prayers to everyone on his journey.

Gail Magnus Wow...congrats on 10,000 steps...that's awesome. Now you've motivated me to step it up!

Barbara Laurie JoAnen, you're an amazing lady, I hope you got some permits and I can tell you'll be thrilled to get ... Read more

Barbara Laurie JoAnen, you're an amazing lady, I hope you got some permits and I can tell you'll be thrilled to get out there! God Bless❤️

Janet R JoAnen, I am so glad that you are back home and doing well. You are a remarkable woman and I admire ... Read more

Janet R JoAnen, I am so glad that you are back home and doing well. You are a remarkable woman and I admire your Alaskan spirit.

Jan McClain GOOD GRIEF!! You are incredible! Keep posting, you inspire us, even slug-like ones like me.

Christine Oliva Good news all around. Congrats keep on climbing!

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3592 days ago

Mike Ziegenhagen, Emily Rowley, Mark Caswell and 9 others reacted to this

Wow did that shower feel awesome. My INR is good and I will be heading home at 3 am. In 17 hours I should be home. I am so excited to get home and continue ...Read more

Wow did that shower feel awesome. My INR is good and I will be heading home at 3 am. In 17 hours I should be home. I am so excited to get home and continue with my recovery. Big thanks to everyone for all the support.

Emily Rowley Showers are a-m-a-z-i-n-g! Can you shower yourself or do you require help? In Hospital the Physiother ... Read more

Emily Rowley Showers are a-m-a-z-i-n-g! Can you shower yourself or do you require help? In Hospital the Physiotherapist told the Nurses not to help me shower, I must do it on my own grr. Whoa 3am is early. Yay 😊 Good luck.

Ed Miskovic Ah, the shower. I've found that using a hand held shower head, and the end of flexible tubing, very c ... Read more

Ed Miskovic Ah, the shower. I've found that using a hand held shower head, and the end of flexible tubing, very comfortable for me during these first few days home. Also I use liquid soap and a "reaching stick" with a very soft brushing head. It's long enough and soft enough for me to reach without fear of losing my balance. Before I was discharged from the hospital, an Occupational Therapist trained me in how to get into and out of a shower-style bathtub. Wish you the best. Getting home is better than the first hospital shower.

JoAnen Banzhaf I agree. Awesome to be home. Long trip but no issues other than I got pretty tired.

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3593 days ago

Whitney Nelson, Ed Miskovic, Janet R and 5 others reacted to this

The pacemaker is doing good but now the top part of my heart is going faster than it can keep up woth(A-fib). They said my potassium was high which might be ...Read more

The pacemaker is doing good but now the top part of my heart is going faster than it can keep up woth(A-fib). They said my potassium was high which might be part of the problem. They also started me on a beta blocker. I finally got my INR up to 2.0. I am flying home on Saturday. It is a long trip but will be so nice to get there!. I sure like being on this side because even though it is really tough you can see the improvement every day.

Barbara Laurie What a positive attitude JoAnen, I hope all goes well the next two days.😄❤️

Congrats on discharge and I hope that you continue to get stronger each day! Best wishes to you!

Wanda Mroz Hoping everything comes together soon.

Janet R You have been through so much and glad to hear things are coming around. I hope you get back to Alas ... Read more

Janet R You have been through so much and glad to hear things are coming around. I hope you get back to Alaska soon and as good as new.

Shirley Wong-Cruz Congrats and be well ❤️

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3594 days ago

Shirley Wong-Cruz, Whitney Nelson, linda conover and 8 others reacted to this

One step closer to going home. The procedure went ok. It was about 2 hours and they used conscious sedation. I can say I was not happy with it. They told me ...Read more

One step closer to going home. The procedure went ok. It was about 2 hours and they used conscious sedation. I can say I was not happy with it. They told me that I would feel pressure but not pain. When the Dr. told me he was making the incision I felt it. Not real painfully but but definatly freaked me out. I had to ask for more drugs at least 3 times because of being in pain during the procedure. So glad it's done. They will interrogate the pacemaker in the morning. If everything is good I am out of here😃. Best of luck to everyone on this journey. It sure is good to be on his side

Wanda Mroz Keepin my fingers crossed you get sprung!,

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3594 days ago

Mike Ziegenhagen, Barbara Laurie, Elaine Cutri and 8 others reacted to this

My INR is good enough th to get my pacemaker today. They stopped my Heparin IV so it has to be off for a few hours then I will get it done. If all goes well ...Read more

My INR is good enough th to get my pacemaker today. They stopped my Heparin IV so it has to be off for a few hours then I will get it done. If all goes well I get out of the hospital tomorrow. That is awesome. Thanks again for all the prayers and support I am receiving.

Barbara Laurie JoAnen, anyone who lives in Alaska is one tough cookie in my book! I am going to look forward to your ... Read more

Barbara Laurie JoAnen, anyone who lives in Alaska is one tough cookie in my book! I am going to look forward to your future posts about fishing up there,I'm jealous of your big catch! I have fished along the little Truckee river, had my first catch there, I'll post a pic, you'll get a laugh, but I stopped fly fishing awhile ago because I couldn't keep up, best prayers for your safe return home and recovery, keep us posted😄

Christine Kline Good luck with the pacemaker!

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3595 days ago

Well my INR was 1.6 again this morning so they postponed the procedure for the pacemaker another day. It was very disappointing. Everything else is good. I ...Read more

Well my INR was 1.6 again this morning so they postponed the procedure for the pacemaker another day. It was very disappointing. Everything else is good. I am getting stronger and walking more each day. Took 6 walks yesterday for a total of 4000 steps. Should beat that easily today. Dick does most of my walks with me. He has been an angel. I got a kind of a shower today which definitely helped with my mood. So ready to head north. All the prayers and good thoughts are definitely helping my recovery. Best wishes to everyone else that is on this journey.

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3596 days ago

2 people reacted to this

Quick update. Pacemaker was planned for today however her INR levels dropped to much so pushing it till tomorrow.

Emily Rowley I didn't know INR effects it but it does make sense. How will she have it implanted? Will her levels ... Read more

Emily Rowley I didn't know INR effects it but it does make sense. How will she have it implanted? Will her levels go up within a day or will they higher the dosage? My levels were 2.8 yesterday and two days before was 1.9 so big increase (taking the same 3mg dosage). I think it was because I've been monitoring my food intake writing it all down since being home. All the best to her, will be thinking of her 😊

JoAnen Banzhaf Should be up because they are also doing Heparin.

Emily Rowley In Hospital they had to give me Heparin injections until my INR level was high enough. Now I hundreds ... Read more

Emily Rowley In Hospital they had to give me Heparin injections until my INR level was high enough. Now I hundreds of bruises on my legs.

JoAnen Banzhaf I have a heparin IV. My INR has to be in thereaputic range because they can not give Heparin with 48 ... Read more

JoAnen Banzhaf I have a heparin IV. My INR has to be in thereaputic range because they can not give Heparin with 48 hours of a procedure.

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3597 days ago

4 people reacted to this

We talked to Dr Joyce's team and the heart team this morning. They are in agreement that mom will benefit from a permanent pacemaker. At this time it is scheduled ...Read more

We talked to Dr Joyce's team and the heart team this morning. They are in agreement that mom will benefit from a permanent pacemaker. At this time it is scheduled to be put in tomorrow. This shouldn't restrict her life much other than she can not be an arc welder. They are putting it in a place that will not affect her shooting her rifle. She is a bit down about it, but it will be good as she will be able to get the other two pacemakers removed. After pacemaker she will be blue to start planning a discharge date. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers. I will be driving back to Wyoming today. Clinton or I will keep this updated as we know more or until mom is ready to take over. JoAnn

Emily Rowley 1 new Pacemaker would work better than 2, I believe. They thought I would need a Pacemaker. How is sh ... Read more

Emily Rowley 1 new Pacemaker would work better than 2, I believe. They thought I would need a Pacemaker. How is she having it inserted? My thoughts and Prayers are with all of your family.

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3598 days ago

Wanda Mroz, Mark Caswell, Sharmin Atker and 8 others reacted to this

Mom asked me to update and let everyone know she has her chest tubes out. She was pretty excited about that. She just took a walk down the hall (this makes ...Read more

Mom asked me to update and let everyone know she has her chest tubes out. She was pretty excited about that. She just took a walk down the hall (this makes 4 walks today) and had a bit of dinner. She is not a fan of the liquid diet foods but we convinced them to give her some soft foods. We are waiting for that tray to be brought up. JoAnn

Emily Rowley Oh my I know how tough it is getting those chest tubes pulled out-had to hold my breathe! That's good ... Read more

Emily Rowley Oh my I know how tough it is getting those chest tubes pulled out-had to hold my breathe! That's good to hear she is doing well and the walking will help her recovery. All I wanted after surgery was jelly only lol. Wishing her all the best.

Wanda Mroz Awesome... Those tubes out should make a huge difference! Glad she's doing well... Just don't overd ... Read more

Wanda Mroz Awesome... Those tubes out should make a huge difference! Glad she's doing well... Just don't overdo!

Tina Rigney Great news indeed!!!

linda conover Glad to hear she is doing great. I ditto Wanda - "just don't overdo!"

Robert Frederick When you start to scheme about how to smuggle food into the hospital, It is a sure sign you are feeli ... Read more

Robert Frederick When you start to scheme about how to smuggle food into the hospital, It is a sure sign you are feeling better and getting close to discharge!

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3598 days ago

Adam Pick, Mark Caswell and 2 others reacted to this

Today has been going good. She has been up and took two walks so far. Her heart rate is improving from yesterday, however a permanent pacemaker is a possibility ...Read more

Today has been going good. She has been up and took two walks so far. Her heart rate is improving from yesterday, however a permanent pacemaker is a possibility as her upper and lower chambers are not communicating. It sounds like they should be taking chest tubes out this afternoon so that's a plus. Clinton headed back to Alaska today. JoAnn

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3599 days ago

Adam Pick, Liz Burroughs, Elaine Cutri and 9 others reacted to this

She is out of procedure and is doing good. They moved her to the step down room for recovery. Clinton

Christine Kline Thanks for the updates! Glad to know she has moved out of ICU--now the longer, slower process of rec ... Read more

Christine Kline Thanks for the updates! Glad to know she has moved out of ICU--now the longer, slower process of recovering!

Kate Watson That's great!

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3599 days ago

Kate Watson and 2 others reacted to this

They just took her to start procedure for the temporary-permeant pacemaker. Told us will be 2-3 hours before see her. Clinton

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3599 days ago

We just talked to the doctors and they decided to put in a temporary-permeant pacemaker. This will allow her to move out of the ICU and have a more reliable ...Read more

We just talked to the doctors and they decided to put in a temporary-permeant pacemaker. This will allow her to move out of the ICU and have a more reliable system to help the heart. What they have now is finicky and has been know to fail becoming very dramatic fast especially with the weekend coming up. The procedure for the temporary-permeant pacemaker sounds pretty easy and quick. We do not have time when they will start it but will update when know more. Clinton

Shirley Wong-Cruz Good luck JoAnen ❤️ Stay strong!

Gary Stripling I've had 4 pacemaker surgeries (plus OHS) in the past 14 months. It's no big deal. Keep that arm in a ... Read more

Gary Stripling I've had 4 pacemaker surgeries (plus OHS) in the past 14 months. It's no big deal. Keep that arm in a sling!

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3599 days ago

2 people reacted to this

She is recovering well and were talking about taking her out of ICU today but when they checked her heart without the stimulators, this morning, she had a heart ...Read more

She is recovering well and were talking about taking her out of ICU today but when they checked her heart without the stimulators, this morning, she had a heart block. They are now talking about either keeping her in ICU to see if returns to normal or put a temporary-permeant pacemaker and move her to a recovery room to see if it comes out of it later. If she does not she will need a permeant pacemaker installed. She had the same thing last time and came out of it. Thank you everyone and will update when we know more! Clinton

Nancy D Prayers for great outcome and rapid recovery!

Elaine Cutri Thinking positive thoughts for a normal heartbeat.

Wanda Mroz Best wishes for a good outcome!

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3600 days ago

Whitney Nelson, Elaine Cutri, Pat Bijas and 6 others reacted to this

I want to thank you for all you prayers and messages of support through out today. My mom is truly blessed to have so many amazing family and friends supporting ...Read more

I want to thank you for all you prayers and messages of support through out today. My mom is truly blessed to have so many amazing family and friends supporting her. JoAnn

Terrie Syvertsen JoAnn- Your Mom is blessed to have you, your love and support at such an important time in her life a ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsen JoAnn- Your Mom is blessed to have you, your love and support at such an important time in her life as well. Greatful is what I am thinking too! You take care and give her our good wishes and love!

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3600 days ago

Angela Hicks, Whitney Nelson, Elaine Cutri and 5 others reacted to this

She is out of surgery and doing well. She already has her breathing tube out and doing well. She is in some pain and a bit drowsy but she is doing awesome. ...Read more

She is out of surgery and doing well. She already has her breathing tube out and doing well. She is in some pain and a bit drowsy but she is doing awesome.

Terrie Syvertsen Great news & thank you for posting to us! Now begins the healing time, eh? Please let her know she is ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsen Great news & thank you for posting to us! Now begins the healing time, eh? Please let her know she is being thought of by many of her Heart Brothers and Sisters!

Tammy Pilcher Great news! Prayers for a smooth recovery. God bless! Psalms 28:7

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3600 days ago

Elaine Cutri, Meredith Bray, Ed Miskovic and 7 others reacted to this

We just talked to the surgeon and said the replacement went well with no complications and minimal scaring. They are closing up now and will start to wake her ...Read more

We just talked to the surgeon and said the replacement went well with no complications and minimal scaring. They are closing up now and will start to wake her up. Clinton

Sophia Ridley Fabulous news that it's gone so well.

Cathy Slipski Great to hear!!!!

Tammy Pilcher Great news! Psalms 28:7

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3600 days ago

Whitney Nelson, linda conover, tabitha mcglohon and 3 others reacted to this

We were just updated she is on the heart and lung machine and starting valve replacement.

Janet R Continued prayers for a smooth surgery.

Jacqueline Cook Sending prayers...

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3600 days ago

linda conover and 5 others reacted to this

We were told the procedure should take about 6 hours (pre-op and surgery). She was taken back to pre-op about 7:30 a.m. and just got an updated saying surgery ...Read more

We were told the procedure should take about 6 hours (pre-op and surgery). She was taken back to pre-op about 7:30 a.m. and just got an updated saying surgery started about 9 a.m. Clinton

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3601 days ago

Ashley Cross and 7 others reacted to this

Well I made it through everything today. They said that everything was good with the angiogram. I talked with the surgeon and he said that I had to do mechanical ...Read more

Well I made it through everything today. They said that everything was good with the angiogram. I talked with the surgeon and he said that I had to do mechanical valve because if I did another tissue valve it might calcify just as fast. It wasn't a long discussion since he said that I was familial with the procedure. I had to stay longer in recovery from angiogram because it started bleeding after they had me up and walking. Doing good now, I have to be at the hospital at 5:30 am in the morning. My son, Clinton, will be updating my journal while I am in surgery and ICU. JoAnn, my daughter and her husband came in from Wyoming today. She will be taking care of texts and phone calls. Thanks for all the prayers and good wishes. I am so ready to be on the other side.

Best wishes, JoAnen! Sending thoughts of healing your way!

Ashley Cross Praying for you!!

Whitney Nelson Good luck for tomorrow!!

Terrie Syvertsen JoAnen: Sending a prayer out for your surgery to go as smooth as your kayak on the lake in gentle wat ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsen JoAnen: Sending a prayer out for your surgery to go as smooth as your kayak on the lake in gentle waters.......Looking forward to JoAnn letting us
know how things went and are going! With your Spirit and attitude I have
no doubt this will go well and will be happy for you to resume your healing and LIFE! Take care and know we are thinking of you tomorrow here in this community of Heart Brothers and Heart Sisters.

Tammy Pilcher Praying for you, JoAnen. Isaiah 41:13. God bless you!

Wanda Mroz Very best to you... Prayers for a quick and easy recovery!

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3602 days ago

Elaine Cutri, Lynee Casper and 6 others reacted to this

Well I have the appointment with my surgeon at 8 am and then angiogram at 9:15. Then I have another consultation and a preoperative class in the afternoon. ...Read more

Well I have the appointment with my surgeon at 8 am and then angiogram at 9:15. Then I have another consultation and a preoperative class in the afternoon. They are going to keep me busy tomorrow. Wishing the best of luck to everyone who is going through this.

Hang in there, JoAnen! I hope all goes smoothly and this new valve lasts a long, long time!

Melinda Queliz Best wishes!! Would you let me know how your experience with the angiogram was? I will be having mine ... Read more

Melinda Queliz Best wishes!! Would you let me know how your experience with the angiogram was? I will be having mine on 3/1 with surgery 3/3. I do know I will have mine through my arm but I'm just nervous of feeling anything. I have a weak stomach and just the thought of it makes me sick.

Lynee Casper Best to you, and thanks for keeping us informed, we will be thinking of you. Looks like Melinda and I ... Read more

Lynee Casper Best to you, and thanks for keeping us informed, we will be thinking of you. Looks like Melinda and I will be having surgery about the same time, and I believe this to be true, we gather strength from each others thoughts, and it sure is helpful that you all share. I will try to do the same as I get closer. You will be on the other side before you know it!

Janet R Prayers for a successful surgery and recovery.

JoAnen Banzhafposted an update

3604 days ago

Ed Miskovic and 3 others reacted to this

Made it to Rochester. I start tests and consultations on Tuesday. Angiogram on Wednesday. Heart valve surgery is scheduled for the 4th. Hoping all the tests ...Read more

Made it to Rochester. I start tests and consultations on Tuesday. Angiogram on Wednesday. Heart valve surgery is scheduled for the 4th. Hoping all the tests go well. Looking forward to being on the other side again.

Wanda Mroz Best of luck on the tests!

linda conover Not much longer until surgery. Hope the tests are all A+'s

Elaine Cutri Wishing you a successful outcome and smooth recovery.

Christine Kline Best of luck, second time round. Are you going with the mechanical valve this time?

Chris K

JoAnen Banzhaf They didn't give me a choice this time since the tissue valve went bad so fast.

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3620 days ago

Since my visit at the Mayo Clinic in December my symptoms have gotten much worse. I had to quit working and I have surgery scheduled for February 4th. I still ...Read more

Since my visit at the Mayo Clinic in December my symptoms have gotten much worse. I had to quit working and I have surgery scheduled for February 4th. I still can't believe that I have to have this done so soon. I will probably end up having to do mechanical valve this time. I guess if that is what it takes so it will last longer that is what I will do. Has anyone else had their tissue valve replaced that soon? Will update as I can. JoAnen

Michele Tracey I'm so sorry JoAnen! I've heard with people with hyperparathyroid, arthritis, or other inflammatory d ... Read more

Michele Tracey I'm so sorry JoAnen! I've heard with people with hyperparathyroid, arthritis, or other inflammatory diseases that it may degenerate the valve faster due to autoimmune responses. How long have you had it? How old are you? Is it an aortic valve? Who's your surgeon at Mayo?

Christine Kline Wow! Can't believe that your valve deteriorated so quickly. So far, mine is fine according to my ca ... Read more

Christine Kline Wow! Can't believe that your valve deteriorated so quickly. So far, mine is fine according to my cardiologist and I am feeling great! Will be thinking of you on Feb 4th. Best of luck!

So sorry JoAnen, I am sorry that you have to have a replacement so soon and I am sure the wait is har ... Read more

So sorry JoAnen, I am sorry that you have to have a replacement so soon and I am sure the wait is hard. I hope your surgery goes smoothly and uneventful. I had a tissue valve replacement on 12/1 and my valve has already deteriorated much faster than it should be. I was told by my cardiologist that I may have a clot on my valve and there is newer research suggesting that clots on the valve cause it to deteriorate much faster and that 15% of tissue valve patients experience this. I wonder if this is what happened or if was something else. My cardiologist said that when treated with coumadin, the clot resolves and helps preserve the valve. Here is the info I read: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/855166

Thrombosis a Common, Early Cause of Bioprosthetic Valve Failure

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/855166

Aggressive surveillance could help find such patients, who could then be given anticoagulants, say researchers, who call for more frequent echo and longer anticoagulation than in the guidelines.

JoAnen Banzhaf They suspected a blood clot but have determined that it is just early degeneration of the valve.

I am so sorry to hear this. Three years and having to undergo another surgery seems so unfair. I am h ... Read more

I am so sorry to hear this. Three years and having to undergo another surgery seems so unfair. I am having a CT scan to determine if I have a either a clot or early degeneration as well and just had surgery on 12/1. You would think they would have a warranty or something. Best wishes to you and I hope your surgery goes well and that your new valve is much more durable. Keep us posted.

JoAnen Banzhaf I hope they figure what is going on with you. I will be following to see how you are doing. Hoping yo ... Read more

JoAnen Banzhaf I hope they figure what is going on with you. I will be following to see how you are doing. Hoping you get good news.

Thanks, I'll be following your progress as well. Hang in there.

Ruth Valenzuela OMG. I learn new things everyday (tissue valve lasting just a short time). JoAnen and Laura, I'll b ... Read more

Ruth Valenzuela OMG. I learn new things everyday (tissue valve lasting just a short time). JoAnen and Laura, I'll be praying for you both. I had my aortic valve replaced in September of last year and feel great. Now I wonder how long will this valve last (porcine)!!!! My heart goes out to you.

Wanda Mroz I'm so sorry you have to go through it again so soon. I hope everything goes well for you. I'll be ... Read more

Wanda Mroz I'm so sorry you have to go through it again so soon. I hope everything goes well for you. I'll be checking in.

Liz Burroughs Good luck with your surgery! We'll be praying for you.

JoAnen Banzhafposted a journal

3644 days ago

1 person reacted to this

I went in for a check up with the Mayo clinic where I had my AVR done. I was there mainly to get a check up on 2 total knee replacements but figured I would ...Read more

I went in for a check up with the Mayo clinic where I had my AVR done. I was there mainly to get a check up on 2 total knee replacements but figured I would get the cardiologist to check me out. I was shocked at the news I received. They said that I have bioprosthetic valve calcific degeneration. At this time I am not having symptoms of aortic stenosis so they said they would see me in a year unless I start showing symptoms. I was told that the valve should be good for 12-15 years when I had my surgery. Has anyone else had this problem after having a AVR? They said it was nothing that I did that some valves just start degeneration early. Can't say that I am looking forward to another surgery in the near future. Merry Christmas to everyone!

Christine Kline Hi Joanne: What a shock for you! I had my AVR surgery almost 2 1/2 years ago. My last echocardiogr ... Read more

Christine Kline Hi Joanne: What a shock for you! I had my AVR surgery almost 2 1/2 years ago. My last echocardiogram shows that my valve is working fine--so far. My cardiologist says that most tissue valves should last 15 years, but sometimes they fail earlier and sometimes they last longer and they don't know why. I will cross my fingers for you! Wishing you a Merry Christmas.
Chris K.

JoAnen Banzhaf Thank you Christine. I am glad that your valve is working fine. They also told me that sometimes they ... Read more

JoAnen Banzhaf Thank you Christine. I am glad that your valve is working fine. They also told me that sometimes they fail. They assured me that it was nothing that I did. It is still hard to process because I had the 15 years in my mind. I will post more as I find out.