Fellow travelers,
I pray all are well pre/post surgery.
It’s been 6.5 months since my surgery and I am happy to report that I am doing well. I’ve completed ...Read more
Fellow travelers,
I pray all are well pre/post surgery.
It’s been 6.5 months since my surgery and I am happy to report that I am doing well. I’ve completed cardio-rehab and have continued with my heart healthy routine at my local gym. I’m moderately jogging 9 miles per week and walking as much as possible in between. I’m planning to run a Shamrock Shuffle in Chicago in April (5 miles) as proof that I’m coming back! In the meantime, I praying for all of us.
Blessings
Barbara Wood It sounds like you're doing so well Joseph...so glad to hear it:)!
Greetings, fellow travelers.
It's been 102 days since my surgery and I've just completed my 20th session out of 36 of cardio-rehab. I saw my cardiologist on ...Read more
Greetings, fellow travelers.
It's been 102 days since my surgery and I've just completed my 20th session out of 36 of cardio-rehab. I saw my cardiologist on 10 July for a follow-up and a assessment of my latest echo. Good news is that my mitral valve repair is holding with no discernable murmur. Yaah! Bad news is that my aortic valve has been slowly dilating since 2014.
My question to anyone who cares to respond is: Does either mitral valve repair and/or increase stress on the heart due to exercise accelerate the dilating of other heart valves? I'm going to pose this question to my doctor, but would also value other heart patient's actual experience.
Thanks in advance, and may the good Lord continue to bless us all.
It would be my opinion that the improved pressures in your heart would slow down the progression. A ... Read more
It would be my opinion that the improved pressures in your heart would slow down the progression. Abnormal pressures,high, chronically for years caused my tricuspid to essentially blow out and I have a pulmonary artery aneurysm. Essentially I have been told controlling the pressures are best way control progression. Repairing the valve should normalize pressures. Of course just my best guess.
Cathleen Weed Uncontrolled high blood pressure is a risk factor for heart valve patients because of the extra press ... Read more
Cathleen Weed Uncontrolled high blood pressure is a risk factor for heart valve patients because of the extra pressure through the valves. Also, when there is aortic regurgitation it can actually cause mitral valve prolapse. Your mitral valve repair on the other hand shouldn't cause any extra issues for your aortic valve. Exercise is good for the heart because it helps keep the heart muscle strong and exercising causes a reduction in blood pressure overall, which is the goal.
Ellen Leng It does take some time for your heart to adjust to the "new normal" as it had the mitral leak for a l ... Read more
Ellen Leng It does take some time for your heart to adjust to the "new normal" as it had the mitral leak for a long time. It makes sense that the aortic valve is seeing more pressure with the repair. I was told after my mitral repair (9/28/16) that it would take time (sorry, I didn't ask how much) for everything to find that new normal. My impression was that time = months to a year.
Are you also talking to your surgeon? He/she might be able to give you some good counsel as well.
Kathy Blank I have dilated aorta and not dilated aortic valve. It was discovered during my echo that diagnosed my ... Read more
Kathy Blank I have dilated aorta and not dilated aortic valve. It was discovered during my echo that diagnosed my severe mitral regurgitation. My MB Repair was Feb 8th. I am also curious about if mitral valve prolapse- regurgitation had any affect on my aorta. I am at a 4.0 and will have an MRI in September.
Joseph Freeman Thanks for all of your comments and advice. Since this posting, I’ve consulted with my internist w ... Read more
Joseph Freeman Thanks for all of your comments and advice. Since this posting, I’ve consulted with my internist who compared my current 4.5 measurement to my 4.2 echo measurement 5 yrs. ago. He seems to think my aortic root should stabilize over time before surgery is indicated. I’ll confirm with my cardiologist in January 2018 and will report back.
Blessings!
Wow,it's been a while since my last posting. Since, May 31st, I've been participating in cardio-rehab 3x per week,1 hour per session. I recommend trying the ...Read more
Wow,it's been a while since my last posting. Since, May 31st, I've been participating in cardio-rehab 3x per week,1 hour per session. I recommend trying the program, because it's definitely both a confidence builder, an an excellent source of information. I'm coming to accept that I will be a heart patient the rest of my life, but that doesn't mean life isn't worth living. Yo me, life has become more interesting. Challenging, yes. But now a greater incentive to take even better care of myself, and then to pass forward my experiences
to family and friends. The Lord, is so merciful and wise. I will always be amazed at His blessings.
I had my first follow-up visit with my original cardiologist on May 3rd. Out of 11 meds, I'm down to 1 major and two minor ones now. I have to be on Coumadin ...Read more
I had my first follow-up visit with my original cardiologist on May 3rd. Out of 11 meds, I'm down to 1 major and two minor ones now. I have to be on Coumadin for at least another 2 months, and 81 mg aspirin and multi-vitamin. I had some concerns about the blood pressure medicine and the Lipitor that I was taking 30 days post surgery. Because my BP runs on the low side, and I had some concerns about frequent urination being caused by the Lipitor, my cardiologist agreed to discontinue both the Metoprolol,the Lisinopril, and the Lipitor.(Note: I had no BP issues and 195 total cholesterol prior to surgery). I'm still trying to stabilize my coumadin INR levels but hope to accomplish this soon. After a stress test on May 19th, I hope to be cleared for cardio-rehab.
Despite a concern about a UTI, which proved to be negative, I'm progressing OK. Taking walks up to an hour now both outside and on the treadmill. Still dealing with the sleepless nights, but I'm prayerful that this will eventually work itself out.
Stay Blessed my fellow travelers. The Lord is our passenger riding "shotgun" on this journey! He is with us always!
Civita Fahey Great news Joseph. Continued good health
Barbara Wood That's so good to hear Joseph! Best wishes as you continue to move forward:)
Joseph Freeman Thanks so much for your encouragement. Civita and Barbara your a Blessing!
I'm 25 days post surgery, and I've had the usual concerns of recovering heart patients. Warafin levels, exercise concerns, follow-up appointments, pain management, ...Read more
I'm 25 days post surgery, and I've had the usual concerns of recovering heart patients. Warafin levels, exercise concerns, follow-up appointments, pain management, and is my devoted wife finally going to leave me, because I'm acting like an ass sometimes.
But on sleepless nights like this one, I try to pass on some semblance of encouragement and inspiration to others on this wonderful forum, and I wind up feeling both inspired and a little ashamed because of my "petty" complaints.
My fellow travelers, you are my Blessings. I admire your courage, your Spirit-inspired attitudes and faith, and I log off feeling inspired and humbled. Compared to some of you my brothers and sisters I have no real issues. My self-absorption although understandable pales in comparison to some of my fellow heart patients. I want to just go on record to let you all know how much I love you all and admire you. Perception without perspective is a fool's folly. Thank you so much for sharing and helping me deepen my Faith!!
Many Blessings!
Rita Savelis No complaints are petty You've been through a lot Joseph. Everyone's issues are important and valid. ... Read more
Rita Savelis No complaints are petty You've been through a lot Joseph. Everyone's issues are important and valid. Wishing you a speedy recovery and good sleep soon! Take care.
Today I turn 61 years. Don't feel the "age" portion physically, despite some minor setbacks during recovery. I feel spiritually reborn on a certain level, ...Read more
Today I turn 61 years. Don't feel the "age" portion physically, despite some minor setbacks during recovery. I feel spiritually reborn on a certain level, because let's face it, the outcome could've been different. I am so grateful to my Lord for His many blessings in my life. I thought I was doing a decent job in keeping His will before mine. But post surgery, I realized that there was much room for improvement.There is nothing like OHS to force some much needed self-reflection and subsequent evaluation and then action.
Strengthening my faith now more by deeds rather than lofty platitudes. I looking so forward to passing it forward. God Bless you all my fellow travelers and remember that we are not alone. I know the Lord loves us all and wants us to succeed beyond our wildest expectations. Trust in the Lord! He's got our backs!
Happy Re-Birthday!!
Barbara Wood Happy Birthday Joseph, have a wonderful day!
Tyline Scholle Happy birthday Joseph. Hope your day is filled with sunshine and happiness. Life gets better with age ... Read more
Tyline Scholle Happy birthday Joseph. Hope your day is filled with sunshine and happiness. Life gets better with age and the wisdom that comes with it.
Duane Beeman Joseph. I hear ya loud and clear. It's a gift we've been given....use it well.
17 days post surgery and I had kind of rough 72 hours. I'm suppose to terminate usage of Norco10 mg-acetaminophen 325 mg tomorrow, 22 April. Ok, I thought no ...Read more
17 days post surgery and I had kind of rough 72 hours. I'm suppose to terminate usage of Norco10 mg-acetaminophen 325 mg tomorrow, 22 April. Ok, I thought no problem. I wasn't on any mandated prescriptions at age 61, so I thought it would be a piece of cake. An original script of 50 tabs was filled on 08 April, and being medicine naive and somewhat cockey, I thought no way am I going need all 50 pills. No one is going to make an addict out of me! "One tab by mouth every four hours as needed for Pain-Moderate(pain score 4-6)" were the usage directions. As of 21 April, I have 16 remaining pills. Doing the math, I took 34 pills over 14 days. A little under 2.5 pills per day. Not too bad, right? I supplemented Extra Strength Tylenol (500mg tabs) when needed but for me only dulled the pain, never ended it.
I slowly weaned myself off of the Norco for the last 4 days with the Tylenol, which at the maximum dose of 3000 mg every 24 hours only dulled my pain. Like I said, it has been a rough 72 hours! Walking around the house in the wee hours of the night/morning only helped.
Take the medicine, as directed, but keep in mind the body apparently loves the Hydrocodone. For me, even a little was a lot. Compared to the alternative, I believe I really have nothing to complain about. After all, isn't all of life about trade-offs?
Marie Myers Narcotics can be really addicting! Glad you are off them...Your doc was very generous with the prescr ... Read more
Marie Myers Narcotics can be really addicting! Glad you are off them...Your doc was very generous with the prescription; I was only given 10 pills...But they were enough for me. Everyone is different.
Joseph Freeman Hi, Marie
Thanks for the post, my friend. I'm still praying for your speedy recovery. I'm still learn ... Read more
Joseph Freeman Hi, Marie
Thanks for the post, my friend. I'm still praying for your speedy recovery. I'm still learning the virtue of patience at soon to be 61. Continued many Blessings!
Marie Myers Yes-this whole experience is training in patience. It has been hard for me to slow down and accept th ... Read more
Marie Myers Yes-this whole experience is training in patience. It has been hard for me to slow down and accept the changes that come with aging and heart surgery. We are always learning...
Phyllis Petersen I've been in pain management for many years for my stinky back, so have learned how to use without ov ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen I've been in pain management for many years for my stinky back, so have learned how to use without overusing narcotics. Having a healthy respect for them is important, but so is not being in extreme pain. It took me quite awhile to be able to stop completely. I mostly needed one at night in order to get enough restful sleep to do the rehab. Everyone responds differently.
I'm doing well praise Jesus. Minor inconvenience surface from time to time while trying to moderate the pain medication without taking too much, too little, ...Read more
I'm doing well praise Jesus. Minor inconvenience surface from time to time while trying to moderate the pain medication without taking too much, too little, and the regulation of BM's. But I'm up for the challenge along with other obstacles. I'm up to about an 1 hour walk every other day with my wife around the residence. Just getting some sun on your face and some fresh air is a blessing. I'm looking forward to my first follow-up with all my Docs on 26 April.
On 14 April, my beautiful granddaughter,(1st "grand-girl"). 7 lbs, 11ozs is the mirror image of her 8 yr. old brother when he was born. Let the spoiling resume and increase!
Fellow travelers, I'm celebrating the Risen Lord today, and I would like to extend a HAPPY EASTER greeting to all of my OHS sisters and brothers. I love you all and you will continue to be in my prayers.
Peace unto you!
Anita Ibarra Happy Easter to you, too, Joseph. HE IS RISEN INDEED.
As time goes on, it will be easier. Patience ... Read more
Anita Ibarra Happy Easter to you, too, Joseph. HE IS RISEN INDEED.
As time goes on, it will be easier. Patience is important. But since we have Jesus. Everything is going to be all right.
My regiment of 11 prescriptions are slowly getting in sync. Several calls between my home care RN and Nortwestern Hospital caused some modification in the taking ...Read more
My regiment of 11 prescriptions are slowly getting in sync. Several calls between my home care RN and Nortwestern Hospital caused some modification in the taking of blood pressure meds. Besides my blood pressure running on the low side post surgery, it appears I have genetic sensitivity toward Warafin. Most of the meds will only be several weeks in duration. But I'm up for the challenge compared to the alternative!
Does anyone know of a simple way to remove the tape strips that run along the incision? I shower daily, and gently clean the area. The RN related the strips would slowly curl up and I could then dislodge them. Is there a special soap that might gently hasten the process?
Thanks
Many Blessings!
Terrie Hodges Joseph...I don't think you are supposed to pull steri strips off...I think they fall off at 2 or 3 wk ... Read more
Terrie Hodges Joseph...I don't think you are supposed to pull steri strips off...I think they fall off at 2 or 3 wks...remembering from husband's fractured arm surgery...I would leave them alone...they support the closure, I believe😊
Amy Steele Joseph, I hope you are doing well.
I didn't have tape strips on my incision, but had glue. Any kind ... Read more
Amy Steele Joseph, I hope you are doing well.
I didn't have tape strips on my incision, but had glue. Any kind of oil-based product will remove adhesive. Body lotion helped tremendously in softening the glue so it sloughed off easier. I'm sure it would also help with tape.
Catie B Glad to hear you're doing okay, Joseph. I didn't have the strips, either. Keep on healing. : )
I know this is not a topic for polite conversation, but I believe needs to be addressed.(Stop here, if you're not interested-I understand completely).
As most ...Read more
I know this is not a topic for polite conversation, but I believe needs to be addressed.(Stop here, if you're not interested-I understand completely).
As most in-house, invasive surgery patients knows, you have to have a BM Before you're discharged. My surgery was April 4th, my first post-surgery BM was April 6th. I was discharged April 8th. No big deal. On April 10th, I receive my first in-home visit from an RN. Again, no big deal. My dear wife,( whom I love dearly and is with me step of the way on my/our journey), happens to mention to the RN and that I haven't had a BM in two days. I swear I heard sirens go off in the background. The RN immediately jumped into action and immediately recommended Magnesium Citrate. I had never heard of it before, but the importance that I use it immediately was fostered by the RN. My son purchased two bottles, and I dutifully drank one, after reading the label that had the words "relieves occasional constipation". Sounded pretty benign to me.
For the next 14 hours-my goodness! BM problem solved but the severe evacuation continued. Continued to the point where I was worried about dehydration and unbalanced electrolytes. Pedialyte and a lot of water, got me through the worst of it.
Moral of the story:SPEAK UP!! In the spirit of gratefulness and cooperation, I let my guard down. If you believe something is unnecessary or excessive- hold your ground and prepare to defend your position. We're heart patients with extensive rehab ahead, but fight to keep your voice as we proceed on this journey.
Many Blessings!
Terrie Hodges yes, magnesium citrate is what is used prior to colonoscopy...powerful stuff...surgery for me is 4/24 ... Read more
Terrie Hodges yes, magnesium citrate is what is used prior to colonoscopy...powerful stuff...surgery for me is 4/24/17...I would think just 6 days after surgery, like you were, you would not be thinking clearly...you are correct...we must advocate for ourselves..I am not sure I have the right cardiologist to go through the medications things with...I am praying for guidance...I totally appreciate your honesty...heal on...Avoid magnesium citrate!😁
Terrie Hodges I see now Dr Patrick McCarthy at Northwestern did your surgery...Looks like you had the best around
. ... Read more
Terrie Hodges I see now Dr Patrick McCarthy at Northwestern did your surgery...Looks like you had the best around
..hopefully, Home Health will get with it from now on!💟
Rita Savelis Yes, I usually lie about having had a bowel movement after surgery, unless it has been over a week an ... Read more
Rita Savelis Yes, I usually lie about having had a bowel movement after surgery, unless it has been over a week and then I would take only something very light. Every patient is different, and you don't have to comply with standard protocol procedures which may or may not apply in your case...
Amy Steele Joseph, what a terrible experience! After surgery, I did have a bowel movement before going home, bu ... Read more
Amy Steele Joseph, what a terrible experience! After surgery, I did have a bowel movement before going home, but found that it took a few weeks for my GI tract to get back on it's regular schedule and it would be days between bowel movements. I ended up eating a few prunes with each meal, drinking lots of water and walking as much as I could. That seemed to get things back on track without being extreme... You are so right! We have to pay attention to what our bodies need at a time when we aren't thinking as clearly as normal...
Civita Fahey something to remember.. :-) thanks Joseph
Pat Bluemel That seems kind of severe - had you tried prune juice daily? That's what I tell all my peeps waking u ... Read more
Pat Bluemel That seems kind of severe - had you tried prune juice daily? That's what I tell all my peeps waking up from surgery, drink a lot of it! Nurses are very very interested in BMs! Mag Citrate though..wow.
Peggy Whitecotton I am a retired nurse and I cannot believe that your home nurse would recommend magnesium citrate with ... Read more
Peggy Whitecotton I am a retired nurse and I cannot believe that your home nurse would recommend magnesium citrate without calling your doctor who would most likely have ordered a stool softener or a laxative. Magnesium citrate is powerful stuff. You just had major heart surgery and your heart does not need that kind of strain right now. I think I would call the home agency and report that. You even have the right to request a different nurse.
Thank you Jesus, you are so merciful! Despite the rehab, and minor bouts of incision pain,the anticipation had to be the worst ever. America, if you had a ...Read more
Thank you Jesus, you are so merciful! Despite the rehab, and minor bouts of incision pain,the anticipation had to be the worst ever. America, if you had a choice between a short or long date. PICK THE SHORT DATE! The waiting was slow torture! But now you know the rest of the story!
Good Day!
Steve Farthing Well said. Thanks for the encouragement to get it over with soon.
Civita Fahey very true Joseph.. I should have picked the shorter route.. waiting is the worst.. I'm glad all worke ... Read more
Civita Fahey very true Joseph.. I should have picked the shorter route.. waiting is the worst.. I'm glad all worked out for you.. God Bless
Henry Brouwer Thx Joseph, that's what everyone says.........waiting is the worst. Very happy to hear that things ar ... Read more
Henry Brouwer Thx Joseph, that's what everyone says.........waiting is the worst. Very happy to hear that things are going well with you.
Ahhhh a Paul Harvey fan are ya??? I grew up with my Dad listening to him all the time haha. Thanks fo ... Read more
Ahhhh a Paul Harvey fan are ya??? I grew up with my Dad listening to him all the time haha. Thanks for the memories. Glad your doing well Joseph. Good Luck and God Bless You My Friend.
Barbara Laurie Aw, Joseph! Praising God indeed! And so glad you are doing well. 💕 You are so right..pick the soon ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Aw, Joseph! Praising God indeed! And so glad you are doing well. 💕 You are so right..pick the sooner date! 😊 Fighting worry is a tough row to hoe!! God Bless heart brother! ❤
Jeannette McLaughlin I found out on a Friday that surgery would be held the next Wednesday, so needless to say I was kept ... Read more
Jeannette McLaughlin I found out on a Friday that surgery would be held the next Wednesday, so needless to say I was kept busy until the Sunday morning, when I left for the 4-hour drive. I live alone and have two dogs so there was lots to look after in that short period. Once I arrived at destination, I stayed at a B & B for two nights, ate in nice restaurants, walked around town, shopped a bit and the next thing I knew, it was time to admit myself by taxi to the hospital the morning before the surgery. I did meditation and visualization until the last minute and put all my trust in my surgeon and his team. I would have OHS all over again.
Ben Hyman Welcome to the other side! Aren't you glad it's now behind you? The worst is over. Let the healing ... Read more
Ben Hyman Welcome to the other side! Aren't you glad it's now behind you? The worst is over. Let the healing begin
Robyn Tatu The waiting really IS the worst part. Welcome to this side, heart brother!
My time has now been changed from 7AM to 5:30AM tomorrow. I wanted early. It appears I got it. No sleep tonight. Maybe a short catnap.
Blessings
Sue Sanchez Grela Joseph I pulled an all nighter so I would be good and tired going to the hospital 😊
Marie Myers I had that 5:30 reporting time also, Don't remember a thing after 6:30 am till I woke up at 3:30. Wil ... Read more
Marie Myers I had that 5:30 reporting time also, Don't remember a thing after 6:30 am till I woke up at 3:30. Will be thinking about you all day! Have a good sleep tomorrow and take your time in posting afterwards. I was exhausted!
Tyline Scholle Here's hoping your surgery and recovery go well. Saying an extra prayer for you tonight.
Just called about my reporting time in the morning at Northwestern. At 7AM I will be admitted. Surgery is scheduled to start at 8:30AM.
Any suggestions on ...Read more
Just called about my reporting time in the morning at Northwestern. At 7AM I will be admitted. Surgery is scheduled to start at 8:30AM.
Any suggestions on what to do on the night before would be appreciated.
My plan is to stay up all night, so that I would be glad to lay down somewhere.
It's funny, but I don't feel as anxious as I thought I would be. Maybe because I'm exhausted mentally because I've been struggling with this surgery since January 18th.
Jesus be praised this will be soon be over.
Thanks for your suggestions and positive thoughts!
Cathy Zuber Hi Joseph, I'm in Elgin, I'll. I also had mitral valve replacement on March 15. I had to be at She ... Read more
Cathy Zuber Hi Joseph, I'm in Elgin, I'll. I also had mitral valve replacement on March 15. I had to be at Sherman Hospital at 5am. Tuesday nite is a big TV nite in my house, so we watched our favorites, the cat helped. Me pack the few things I needed. Just a quiet family nite. Got a little sleep. I was surprised I slept, for my anxiety and trying to be strong for others. You'll do fine. Great Hospital. Remember..the basketball final is on TV tonite!! Cathy
I'm now waiting for my reporting time for Tuesday. I should be receiving a phone call sometime after 2PM CST. I'm praying for the earliest time possible for ...Read more
I'm now waiting for my reporting time for Tuesday. I should be receiving a phone call sometime after 2PM CST. I'm praying for the earliest time possible for both emotional and logistical purposes. But suffice it say, the day will be finally here.
I'm so blessed to have such a great wife,(40 years married), who has definitely stepped her game-if that was even possible. My "Big Sis" has been amazing in all of her efforts. This event has brought my two sons and my entire extended family closer together. So I guess the theme here is-I am so blessed and highly favored by the Lord. He is working his Blessings and infinite wisdom and grace through me, so I trust in the Lord.
Fellow travelers, hang in there with me. All of us are in the palm of the hand of the Almighty!
I wii post again when I have my reporting time.
God Bless,
Civita Fahey I'll have you in my prayers Joseph.. I'm confident all will go smoothly.. keep us posted.
Henry Brouwer Hi Joseph, we are all thinking about you and are in our prayers.
Trying to stay busy. Church today, long walk Sunday morning and then dinner Sunday night. Monday will be l last minute details until I get the call for my reporting ...Read more
Trying to stay busy. Church today, long walk Sunday morning and then dinner Sunday night. Monday will be l last minute details until I get the call for my reporting time for Tuesday.
Glad when this is done. Whewww.
Amy Steele Joseph, the wait during the last few days are hard. Part of me wanted to call the whole thing off, a ... Read more
Amy Steele Joseph, the wait during the last few days are hard. Part of me wanted to call the whole thing off, and part of me wanted to get it over with. Hang in there.
Tyline Scholle Iam right behind you and trying to keep busy as well. I will be praying for you that your surgery goe ... Read more
Tyline Scholle Iam right behind you and trying to keep busy as well. I will be praying for you that your surgery goes well. I will use you suggest to try and think of something else when I feel myself losing it. God bless
Matthew Russo Sending positive thoughts and prayers your way Joseph for a successful surgery and a calm state of mi ... Read more
Matthew Russo Sending positive thoughts and prayers your way Joseph for a successful surgery and a calm state of mind.
MaryAnn Laser I am right there with you Joseph My surgery is the same day.This is the first surgery I have ever had ... Read more
MaryAnn Laser I am right there with you Joseph My surgery is the same day.This is the first surgery I have ever had.
Pre op Monday.Good Luck stay strong God Bless !
Pat Bijas I agree with Amy, the couple of days before surgery are the hardest. Best of luck to you!
Phyllis Petersen Keeping yourself busy is the only way to get through those last few days. All the best!
Juergen Li Joseph - you will be in great hands and will experience a lot of great medical professionals. In a ve ... Read more
Juergen Li Joseph - you will be in great hands and will experience a lot of great medical professionals. In a very short time you will probably feel much much better than before.
God bless you, Mr Freeman. Tomorrow may bring anxiety but remember that God is with you and will ne ... Read more
God bless you, Mr Freeman. Tomorrow may bring anxiety but remember that God is with you and will never leave you. Tuesday evening will be full of joy for you and your family. :)
Joseph Freeman Thank all of you for posting! It means a great deal to me! I will definitely be passing it forward!
M ... Read more
Joseph Freeman Thank all of you for posting! It means a great deal to me! I will definitely be passing it forward!
Many Blessings!!
Sue Sanchez Grela Joseph your sentiments are beautifully said and so true! I am praying for you and your family ❤
Starting nasal antibiotics today twice a day for 5 days. Surgery on April 4th. The wife wants to take me out to dinner on Sunday prior to the operation on Tuesday. ...Read more
Starting nasal antibiotics today twice a day for 5 days. Surgery on April 4th. The wife wants to take me out to dinner on Sunday prior to the operation on Tuesday. I'm contemplating have a glass of wine with the meal but I've been having some issues with minor heartburn which I think are nerves. Anybody else? I don't think a small glass would hurt. I haven't read to date anyone having issues with very moderate use of alcohol prior to surgery. Already anticipating some sleepless nights. Lord I'll be glad when this over. It's like slow torture. A lesson learned here in hindsight is to geta surgical date sooner whether than later.
Anyway, thanks to everyone in advance for your support.
Blessings
Civita Fahey Joseph I totally agree with getting date sooner rather than later.. I have about 3 1/2 weeks to and ... Read more
Civita Fahey Joseph I totally agree with getting date sooner rather than later.. I have about 3 1/2 weeks to and I'm doing the best I can do not think about it.. but, its hard.. positive thoughts to you for successful surgery.
Tyline Scholle I am in agreement with you both. I choose to wait a month prior to having my surgery, not to mention ... Read more
Tyline Scholle I am in agreement with you both. I choose to wait a month prior to having my surgery, not to mention the date was changed once due to an emergency surgery that needed to be done. This has given my mind time to imagin all kinds of what ifs. I've been obsessed with trying to fill my mind with facts about what I am about to encounter so as to not allow my imagination take over to feed my anxiety. We all must try to stay positive and know that soon enough these feelings with hard work and determination will pass and be replaced with happy new beginnings. That is what I am trying to focus on. May God have mercy on all of us and keep our anxiety at bay and give us all successful outcomes.
Vanessa Corwin Go out to dinner and enjoy that glass of wine!
Cathleen Weed When I was having my second aortic valve replacement (age 22) my cardiologist came in to see me in t ... Read more
Cathleen Weed When I was having my second aortic valve replacement (age 22) my cardiologist came in to see me in the hospital the night before (back when they admitted you the day before) and brought a bottle of red wine and offered to have a glass of wine with me LOL. He gave me the choice between wine or a sleeping pill. So I wouldn't worry too much about it unless you are on a blood thinner and you were advised not to have alcohol. Ultimately I chose the sleeping pill because I was so freaked out LOL but obviously red wine the night before surgery wasn't going to be an issue. I love that memory 🍷😊
Phyllis Petersen When I mentioned that my sister had wine but I didn't with dinner the night before surgery, they aske ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen When I mentioned that my sister had wine but I didn't with dinner the night before surgery, they asked me why not. A glass of wine might help you relax a bit, which isn't a bad thing.
Sleepless night tonight. I woke up at 2:00AM, and have been reading all of the encouraging messages on the website for the past two hours.
I completed a 5 ...Read more
Sleepless night tonight. I woke up at 2:00AM, and have been reading all of the encouraging messages on the website for the past two hours.
I completed a 5 mile walk yesterday while listening to BABBS Striesand and it did help a little. All the pretesting is done and it's a go. I had a second opinion with Dr. Brian Foy , heart surgeon at Edward Hospital, Naperville, IL. A great guy. This was strictly done to reinforce what I had already decided. He knew my surgeon , Dr. Pat McCarthy, and said he was a rock star at a top notch hospital, Northwestern. Dr. Foy related that he would personally go to Pat McCarthy himself and send family members to him. I had a bunch of questions for him, and he very patiently answered all of them.
All of the herbal remedies I was thinking about taking-
(I.e. st. John's Wort, cava, cava, sleeping pills, vitamin supplements), he said leave them all alone. He said, 'Joe, I reviewed your test results and you are basically a healthy guy. Don't waste your money. Surgery will go well for you and just focus on the outcome.' He said sleep as best as you can and if 4 hours is all you get then it's enough for now. Don't force the issue. Your body will adjust eventually pre-surgery, then again after. The anxiety will eventually subside.
Many blessings to my fellow heart patients. We will get through this!
Civita Fahey Hi Joseph.. I understand totally your anxiety.. I have surgery scheduled for April 24th. Reading all ... Read more
Civita Fahey Hi Joseph.. I understand totally your anxiety.. I have surgery scheduled for April 24th. Reading all the encouraging stories does help.. I try to keep busy and not have any time to "think".. have faith that all will go well. Best wishes Civita
Marie Myers I understand those sleepless nights. Usually I get up and listen to calming U Tube meditation videos ... Read more
Marie Myers I understand those sleepless nights. Usually I get up and listen to calming U Tube meditation videos on the couch. Generally I fall back asleep before the end of the video.
Hang in there Joseph you will do fine my friend. As the date arrives it gets surprisingly easier to m ... Read more
Hang in there Joseph you will do fine my friend. As the date arrives it gets surprisingly easier to maintain your calmness. I know that sounds crazy but for me it was true. I basically took Tylenol for my pain except for my first night in the ICU post op. My Full Sternotomy actually brought me minimal pain. I have had other surgeries and for me my arm and my umbilical hernia repair were by far more painful. True Story 😁 I will be watching for your updates my friend, Good Luck and Bless You
Barbara Wood Best wishes Joseph! ( I'm going in just a little ahead of you:))
One week since my angiogram and the results were favorable with no arterial blockages,(some placque), but not enough to be concerned. No pain just bruising, ...Read more
One week since my angiogram and the results were favorable with no arterial blockages,(some placque), but not enough to be concerned. No pain just bruising, which is normal. Note: Men-be prepared to be "manscaped" if you are having a groin entry.
My surgery is less than 4 weeks away, April 4th, and I am experiencing waves of emotion that vacillate between worry and let's get this over. I have a tendency to over think situations which I attribute to 30 years in law enforcement with 20 years as a field supervisor. I'm use to being in control and formulating a favorable outcome. My leaking mitral valve is my first major
surgery, so I have to evoke the serenity prayer and trust
my faith in the Almighty.
Marie Myers I am right there with you, riding the waves of changing emotions. One day I am confident, the next da ... Read more
Marie Myers I am right there with you, riding the waves of changing emotions. One day I am confident, the next day nervous! It is a gradual process of acceptence.This is also my first major surgery, and something I never saw coming down the pike. LOTS of trust involved...
Civita Fahey sounds so familiar.. I guess its the norm for those of us awaiting surgery.. so glad I can share thos ... Read more
Civita Fahey sounds so familiar.. I guess its the norm for those of us awaiting surgery.. so glad I can share those feelings with this group.. those of us who are used to being in control have a hard time giving it up.. but, we must for this and have confidence.. We have to put trust in our surgical team and the Man above.
Barbara Wood Right there with you, my mitral surgery is scheduled for April 3- it's a roller coaster ride for sure ... Read more
Barbara Wood Right there with you, my mitral surgery is scheduled for April 3- it's a roller coaster ride for sure! This group is tremendously helpful...
Matthew Russo Jospeh, I can understand exactly how you are feeling (now 7 days post-op) and the biggest attribute y ... Read more
Matthew Russo Jospeh, I can understand exactly how you are feeling (now 7 days post-op) and the biggest attribute you need to keep strong is what you touched on already - TRUST.
Your surgical team will provide you with the expert care you need while repairing your valve and then your nursing team will take over and ensure a smooth transition from hospital to home. As you mentioned it is the losing control that makes this process so mentally challenging. Trust that you will be in great hands and think about your recovery and how you will feel once the surgical process is over, rather than dwelling on the actual surgery itself. You will do great mate, will be projecting a positive outcome for you.
Phyllis Petersen It's a rare person who didn't/isn't going through the roller coaster of emotions. After all, it's the ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen It's a rare person who didn't/isn't going through the roller coaster of emotions. After all, it's the heart! Find ways to distract yourself and calm down enough for rest and to get the things done you need to before surgery. The success rates are extremely high these days, so you should be fine.
Jane Welp Lots of encouraging words in those posts you just received and it does everyone some good thinking ab ... Read more
Jane Welp Lots of encouraging words in those posts you just received and it does everyone some good thinking about it all in this community of caring people.
I am currently scheduled for surgery at Northwestern Hospital in Chicago on April 4th. I've already had my initial consult with Dr. McCarthy who will be performing ...Read more
I am currently scheduled for surgery at Northwestern Hospital in Chicago on April 4th. I've already had my initial consult with Dr. McCarthy who will be performing the surgery and has stated that he can perform a repair to my mitral valve as opposed to replacing it. My MVR has been diagnosed as "moderate to severe". I've had consults with three cardiologists,( including my brother-in-law). Two of the cardiologists related that I'm in the gray area. My brother-in-law has related that I should get the problem taken care of since the rest of my heart appears to be basically healthy. I'm scheduled for an angiogram next Monday, February 27th. The outcome from this procedure will probably give me the definitive "go or no go" answers I'm looking for. I'm in the process of scheduling a second opinion with another heart surgeon. I knew this day was coming for the last two years, but I am asymptomatic and believed I would have more time to decide.
Kathy Blank Joseph- I was asymptomatic and my echo in June 2016 showed severe regurgitation. I am so thankful I f ... Read more
Kathy Blank Joseph- I was asymptomatic and my echo in June 2016 showed severe regurgitation. I am so thankful I found the problem before I had heart damage or symptoms. I am 2 weeks post op from minimally invasive robotic mitral valve repair. I went to 2 cardiologists and 3 cardiopulmonary surgeons. I chose to have the surgery earlier rather than waiting for symptoms and I am SO glad I did! Keep us posted on the testing but if you know surgery is needed- don't wait too long! At 14 days post op mitral repair I can walk 3.5 miles without difficulty! Heading back to work on Monday.
Ellen Leng My ECHO showed the "gray area" as well. My Cardiologist was a little dubious about my surgery timing, ... Read more
Ellen Leng My ECHO showed the "gray area" as well. My Cardiologist was a little dubious about my surgery timing, but I am SOOOO glad I did it sooner. I had an enlarged atrium and had post-op AFib. I'm now about 5 months out and had another ECHO last month that showed my atrium was back to normal size, so I am tapering off the afib meds.
The atrium size is important as if it stays stretched, you are at higher risk for long term afib.
I actually wish I had caught the MR earlier and had the surgery before the atrium stretched at all, but that's all spilt milk.
Get a second opinion, but get it done!
Joseph Freeman Thanks so much for your words of encouragement! I'll keep you posted about my results from my angiogr ... Read more
Joseph Freeman Thanks so much for your words of encouragement! I'll keep you posted about my results from my angiogram. Many Blessings!