Joyce Shelby - Heart Valve Journal

My Journal

Here's my newest picture!

April 11, 2020 Like | Rose Madura, Rita Savelis, Shannon Gray and 3 others like this

Joyce Shelby Happy Easter everyone! Celebrating my 4 year anniversary of OHS(4-11-16) to fix an aortic aneurysm and replace my aortic valve. Thankful for Dr. Brian Foy ... Read more

Joyce Shelby Happy Easter everyone! Celebrating my 4 year anniversary of OHS(4-11-16) to fix an aortic aneurysm and replace my aortic valve. Thankful for Dr. Brian Foy and his team at Edward Heart Hospital in Naperville. IL. Most importantly, I thank God for giving me another chance at living a healthy and productive life. Thank you Adam for everything you do. It was a pleasure meeting you in 2017 at the Edward Life Sciences Patient Day! Your site has been a true blessing to me and my family! ❤

Marie Myers Congratulations on your anniversary!

Joyce Shelby Thank you Marie and congratulations on your recent anniversary as well!

Susan Lynn Happy Fourth Anniversary! Wishing you many, many decades of celebrations, Joyce!

Adam Pick Way to go Joyce!!!! Yes, it was so great to meet you in Irvine!!! All the best!!!

Joyce Shelby Thank you very much Susan, your words are appreciated!

Joyce Shelby Thank you Adam, you are a true hero to us!!!

Rob Sparling Some very nice smiles in that pic! Looking good, all!

Joyce Shelby Thank you Rob! 😃

Here's my newest picture!

July 14, 2016 Like | Shannon Gray, Kate Watson, Ron Broadhead and 9 others like this

Wishing everyone heart health and healing! 3 months after my AVR! 😃 I am truly blessed!

Denise Campbell You look great. I hope you were biking early or late in the day. It's 100 degrees here. Phew.

WOW looking Good.

Joyce Shelby Hi Denise! Early afternoon, not too bad, I'm in the Chicago area. Low 80's works for me. 😎 I hope you are doing well!

Joyce Shelby Thx Dan, I feel great. No more heart palpitations!

Hi Joyce, you look great,! I echoed your thoughts "Thank God for modern medicine". It's truly a blessing. Wishing you all the best.

Joyce Shelby Thank you Erica, wishing you the best as well!

Ron Broadhead That's really nice. Enjoy your new life!

Joyce Shelby Thanks Ron!

Wanda Mroz Awesome! 💞

Joyce Shelby Hey Wanda, thanks so much!😄

Darlene Smith Great pic! Thanks for sharing!

Joyce Shelby Thanks Darlene! 😀

Catie B You look wonderful! An encouragement for those of us still waiting.

Joyce Shelby Thanks Catie, pretty soon your surgery will be over and you will posting pictures of your healthier self! 😃

Kate Watson You look awesome, very inspiring!

Joyce Shelby Thanks Kate! 🌷

Here's my newest picture!

May 6, 2016 Like | Elaine Cutri, Shannon Gray, Ashley Molyneaux and 6 others like this

Well, my AVR was April 11th. It's been 3 weeks and 4 days post op. I am out walking with my PT! The road hasn't been easy but it hasn't been unattainable either! Those facing surgery, you can do this! Each day and each week will make such a difference in

Petey Bello Great picture Joyce. So glad you are doing well! Enjoy your walks, the scenery looks beautiful :)

Ashley Molyneaux Wonderful news Joyce! Thank you for the encouraging message.

Denise Campbell Hey Joyce. Glad to see u back. I prayed for you. Your scar looks good. Have u started rehab? I'm almost 7 weeks and still waiting for mine to start. I think I have insurance finally straight.

Kate Watson Great job!

Christine Oliva Congrats Joyce you made through the first half, Yea! You look great, full of hope and rising to it as it comes. May God continue to bless you and your family. ... Read more

Christine Oliva Congrats Joyce you made through the first half, Yea! You look great, full of hope and rising to it as it comes. May God continue to bless you and your family. Yes, walking is one of the best medicines for us heart valve survivors. Big thumbs up to you!

Tracy Simmons way to go, keep up the good work

Joyce Shelby Thank you everyone for your kind words and your continued prayers! I wish you all continued health and great days ahead!

Joyce Shelby Thanks Denise for your prayers! I start rehab on May 17th. I am glad that you got your insurance worked out! Thank goodness for insurance when going through what we have all gone through!

Janette Rehua Joyce you look fabulous you are my inspiration girl! xxx I just am amazed how well you look and how motivated you are :) Your experience is really helping me ... Read more

Janette Rehua Joyce you look fabulous you are my inspiration girl! xxx I just am amazed how well you look and how motivated you are :) Your experience is really helping me to have less fear over my upcoming surgery x Bless you x

Joyce Shelby Janette, thank you. Everyone is an inspiration on this site! We all have fear but that's ok because that is normal. We all have come out on the other side of OHS happier and healthier! 😄

Here's my newest picture!

April 17, 2016 Like | Donna Chaney, Stephen Doherty, Nicola Laker and 12 others like this

Well folks, I had my surgery on Monday! I am post surgery and very happy to be here. I thank God for my surgeon and I thank God for bringing me out on the other side of health! Yes, I feel like I have been hit by a truck, but I can already feel the diff

Donna Chaney Wonderful news. Praying for you

Looking good!

Denise Campbell Praise the Lord. I've prayed for you.

Tammy Pilcher Yay Joyce!!! So happy to see this, heart sister! God is so good!!

Linda Wiebe Congratulations Joyce

Wanda Mroz Yay Joyce! Welcome to the bright side heart sister! Heal on! Hugs💞

Barbara Adams Yay, You're on the way!!

amy . So glad! You have been in my prayers!!!

Franklin Wyrick Congratulations. So glad your on the mend!!

Daniel Spurgeon Congratulations on having completed the hardest part. I hope your recovery progresses quickly.

Petey Bello Congratulations Joyce!!! Great news, hope you have a speedy recovery!

Yumi Yim so glad to hear that!

Christine Oliva Congrats Joyce you look great! Its neat how you are feeling the difference already. Think in week you will really start feeling the difference and be even more ... Read more

Christine Oliva Congrats Joyce you look great! Its neat how you are feeling the difference already. Think in week you will really start feeling the difference and be even more thankful for God's wonderful gift. God's blessings to you and your family. Tell the caregivers you are coming home and getting well! Yea Joyce & keep on healing!

Tracy Simmons Great to hear from you and so exciting to hear that you're alreafy feeling the difference. God is great.

Joyce Shelby Thanks to you all! I appreciate your words of kindness! And your continued prayers. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Each day is such a mile stone for feeling better!

Mary Wagner You look great!. There will be days when you feel like you've been run over by a truck but soon they will get further apart. Did they do anything with your aneurysm?

Enrique K Great News Joyce!

Congratulations! Best wishes for a smooth and restful recovery.

Janette Rehua Looking great Joyce Blessings to you during your recovery xx

Kate Watson Awesome to hear! You look great Joyce.

Tonia Earley Awesome Joyce..you look great!

Lynee Casper Way to go Joyce, I see strength and determination, looking grant!

Lynee Casper Looking Great! 👍

Joyce Shelby Thanks so much everyone! Your kind words mean so much! Thank you again!

Update posted on...

April 10, 2016

Well my heart family, this will be my last post until after surgery. I am all packed and due there at tomorrow at 7am! It has been a whirlwind tour over the last few weeks and first and foremost, I am thankful for my Lord, Jesus Christ, and his direction through all of this. With all that I have been through, he has given me an inner peace that I could not have possibly achieved on my own! My hubby might post an update but if not, I will post as soon as I can! I pray that all of you have continued health and I pray for Barb to have a full recovery! All the best for those facing surgery over the next few weeks!! I am looking forward to posting again AND cardiac rehab! ❤️😀❤️

Like | Adam Pick, Shannon Gray, Donna Chaney and 15 others like this

Adam Pick Joyce, My thoughts and prayers are with you!!! ❤️❤️❤️

Tracy Simmons You will be in my prayers.

Tonia Earley Thoughts and prayers for you!

Barbara Adams Continuing prayers! Looking forward to post surgery posts!

Debbie Bentley Praying for you .

Yumi Yim good luck, and praying for you.

Linda Yaff Best of luck to you.

Blessings to you.

Donna Chaney My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family tonight. Keep the faith. God is good. God is law. Blessings to you.

Barbara Laurie You've got this AND you know that He is in control! Praying for you sister, Dave

Janette Rehua Praying for you Joyce xx

Nicola Laker Praying for a smooth procedure and speedy recovery! See you on the upside ☺☺ ❤ xx

ConNie Romo sending up prayers in your behalf.

Denise Campbell Good luck. Praying for you

Shannon Sullivan Thinking of you and sending up prayers for Courage, Hope and Faith. God Bless.

Terrie Syvertsen Thinking of you and sending prayers for your surgery. I hope you have confidence in your "Team" and know the heart valve Brothers and Sisters of this Community are with you in Spirit.

Joyce Shelby Thank you all so much!!! I love my heart family!!! I will see you soon! ❤️

Pat Bijas Thoughts and prayers...

Marilyn M Praying your surgery goes well and a smooth recovery!!

Joyce Shelby Adam, thank you for such a great and inspirational website! Your site has really been a blessing to me and my family! Thank you!

Kelly Weisgarber Sending prayers and positive thoughts ❤️

Tammy Pilcher Joyce, I've been away and off-line for the weekend, but wanted to tell you that you are in my thoughts and prayers for tomorrow. I know God is with you and ... Read more

Tammy Pilcher Joyce, I've been away and off-line for the weekend, but wanted to tell you that you are in my thoughts and prayers for tomorrow. I know God is with you and you will soon have this all behind you, heart sister! Hugs!!

Wanda Mroz Best wishes Joyce. My thoughts and prayers will be with you! 💞🙏🏻

Patti Talbot Prayers for you, Joyce

amy . Best wishes, Joyce. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!

Warm thoughts for a smooth surgery! Best wishes to you, Joyce!! Keep us posted!!

Update posted on...

April 8, 2016

Ok, quite a relief...my surgery is still on for Monday. My rbc's gave my hematologist a scare but they decided to do a blood exchange right before surgery so April 11th is still a go!!! Yay! Sending prayers to those who are recovering, those who are currently in surgery and those facing surgery....all the best to you my heart family!

Like | Nicola Laker, amy . and 1 other likes this

Christine Oliva Lots of good wishes to you on Monday. We will see you on the other side. Peace be with you and your family. After the first couple of weeks you can feel the ... Read more

Christine Oliva Lots of good wishes to you on Monday. We will see you on the other side. Peace be with you and your family. After the first couple of weeks you can feel the healing taking place. Be patient with yourself and sit upright and walk as soon as you can. God's blessings to you.

Joyce Shelby Thank you Christine! Wonderful words indeed! I will definitely take your advice about the patience, thank you for the reminder about that!

Denise Campbell So happy for you. It'll be over before you know. Stay well till then

Joyce Shelby Thanks Denise I can see the light at the end of the tunnel!

Angela Hicks Joyce I will lift your name up in prayer. God is so good.

Joyce Shelby Angela, Thank you! Yes God is definitely good and he is working it out for all of us! :-)

XIAO-RONG LIU My husband and I prey for you. You will be fine. Before my husband went his surgery, we were so scared. He is now living normal and happy life after two months of his surgery.

amy . Wishing you a weekend with many blessings :)

Steven A Husted dear lord take care of joyce and help her thru this surgery and recovery give her your healing touch in jesus name we pray amen

Petey Bello Praying for you Joyce as you prepare for your surgery on Monday! God Bless!

Wanda Mroz Enjoy your weekend... Great news that you can get this done and be on the mend as planned. Hugs!💞

Joyce Shelby Xiao-Rong, thank you for sharing that about your husband! Amy, Steven and Petey, thank you so much for your prayers! Wanda, thank you for your long distance hugs. I appreciate you all!

Update posted on...

April 7, 2016

Well folks, I may have a possible change in my surgery date....so close! My surgery was scheduled for Monday, April 11 and that is currently up in the air now because of my red blood cell count which has mysteriously changed...lol..leave it my blood to do it's own thing days before surgery....lol.
My hematologist wants to possibly build my platelets up through apheresis before surgery on Monday. I won't know anything until tomorrow because he wants to discuss my case with another hematologist. Long story short, I have a less severe form of sickle cell disease and they have to be sure that I have plenty of healthy red blood cells/platelets during surgery. I was really ready for Monday, but God is in control so I am trusting his wisdom and believing that my surgery will be on the best day for me. I know HE is working it out for me! Thanks everyone for all of your well wishes, I will keep you posted!

Like | amy . and 1 other likes this

amy . I will pray for an 4/11 surgery date.

Clay Rowe You're totally right...you prepare the best you can and let him and your docs handle the rest. Lots of prayers going on for you so you'll do just fine.

Tammy Pilcher Prayers and best wishes for you, Joyce. He is working it all out for you. God bless you!

Wanda Mroz Everything happens for a reason... But I'm hoping your surgery is a go so you can get it behind you.

Joyce Shelby Thanks everyone! I appreciate your well wishes! I will find out today. Looking at the big picture of surgery, I guess this is a minor technicality! Stay tuned!

Tracy Simmons I agree, things happen for a reason. I will be thinking and praying for you.

Joyce Shelby Thanks everyone for your prayers!!! Looks like April 11th is a go!

Update posted on...

April 4, 2016

Well my heart family, this time next week I will be in surgery getting my aortic valve replaced. I have been at peace with everything and I am quite sure that is because God has blessed me with the promises of peace during difficult times. The sadness is sporadic, especially when I think of my husband and my boys, but I will get through this! I wish all my April birthday buddies prayers and blessings for a full and complete recovery. I Thank God for this forum and all my new friends, it has really helped me. I am looking forward to the cardiac rehab that everyone is talking about....I can stand to lose about 5 pounds....lol!😃

Like | Tracy Simmons and 1 other likes this

Ashley Molyneaux Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!

You will get through this. Praying for continued peace throughout the week!

Denise Campbell God will get you thru. I had peace in my heart before surgery too. Gods power will handle it. Tomorrow is three weeks for me and I'm going great. It's hard but you can do it.

Patti Talbot You will be so glad when it's over. I'm one week today and some of the worst times were waiting.

Barbara Adams Those promises of peace are real! His presence is going before you. I am three months out..not 100% but so much stronger. Praying for you!

Tammy Pilcher Amen to all of my sisters in Christ! There is no greater peace than having God's assurance that He will never leave us. He will be with you every step of ... Read more

Tammy Pilcher Amen to all of my sisters in Christ! There is no greater peace than having God's assurance that He will never leave us. He will be with you every step of the way, just like He was and is with me. Love, Tammy

Joyce Shelby To all my sisters in Christ, I thank you for your outpouring of prayers and thank you for sharing your experiences of recovery. Health and happiness to you all! 😃

Lee Anthony Sabala my thoughts and prayers are with you Joyce.. .you can get through this.. .5.2 months post op here.. . :-)

You will do great! Sending warm thoughts for a smooth surgery your way!

Petey Bello Sending thoughts and prayers with you Joyce as you approach your upcoming surgery! God Bless!!

Joyce Shelby Thanks so much Lee, Laura and Petey. I appreciate your support, kind words and prayers! Thank you again! :-)

Update posted on...

March 17, 2016

Hi everyone! After surgery, did you find that it was better to sleep in the bed with pillows or sleep in a recliner or even more comfortable to just sit in the recliner? I'm thinking about getting a recliner...just curious.
Thanks!

Like | Nicola Laker likes this

Tracy Simmons My surgery was 3/7/2016 and since I've been home, I've slept with a pillow along my left side. I had mitral valve repair that was minimally invasive with the ... Read more

Tracy Simmons My surgery was 3/7/2016 and since I've been home, I've slept with a pillow along my left side. I had mitral valve repair that was minimally invasive with the incisions on my right side. By around 4am I get restless from sleeping on my back, but am not ready (mentally) to sleep on my left side and with the right side incisions, haven't attempted that yet either. Good luck to you.

Nicola Laker Joyce I have just purchased a recliner ahead of my OHS. In fact I bought two so my husband wasn't left out. I have read from other patients that sitting ... Read more

Nicola Laker Joyce I have just purchased a recliner ahead of my OHS. In fact I bought two so my husband wasn't left out. I have read from other patients that sitting in a recliner was more comfortable than sitting propped up in bed as the pillows slip down. My recliner actually lays flat but I don't think I will be putting it right down. When is your surgery? Mine is going go be end April/early May.

Sophia Ridley I used a bed wedge with pillows rather than a recliner.

Nicola Laker Where did you get yours from Sophia? X

Joyce Shelby Thanks Tracy and Sophia for the feedback, it's all so helpful. Hi Nicola, my surgery is April 11th! I think that I am going to go ahead and get a recliner so ... Read more

Joyce Shelby Thanks Tracy and Sophia for the feedback, it's all so helpful. Hi Nicola, my surgery is April 11th! I think that I am going to go ahead and get a recliner so I can have both options. That bed wedge sounds interesting, I might have to investigate that Sophia....Thanks again everyone! Tracy and Sophia, I am so glad that you both are on the other side of surgery. Nicola, I wish you the best when you have your surgery!

Whitney Nelson I used ALOT of pillows in the bed. The first two weeks were awful and I dreaded having to go to bed but I don't have a recliner. Now I can sleep in the bed ... Read more

Whitney Nelson I used ALOT of pillows in the bed. The first two weeks were awful and I dreaded having to go to bed but I don't have a recliner. Now I can sleep in the bed no problem and I'm 4 week post-op so I'm glad I didn't go out and get a recliner but we all heal different so it's definitely something to consider! Good luck!

Barbara Laurie I tried renting a recliner, but no stores in my area, they are mostly in FL.. Where all our seniors seem to flock to. I have a bed wedge I use for Gerd, lots ... Read more

Barbara Laurie I tried renting a recliner, but no stores in my area, they are mostly in FL.. Where all our seniors seem to flock to. I have a bed wedge I use for Gerd, lots of pillows, my TENs unit and Lidoderm patches and all you folks to cheer me up!, Joyce, praying all goes well and we know the Lord provides where He guides😄🍀❤️

Joyce Shelby Thanks Whitney for your well wishes, glad you are sleeping well! Hey Barbara, I guess one can never be too prepared...an excuse to get one of those really ... Read more

Joyce Shelby Thanks Whitney for your well wishes, glad you are sleeping well! Hey Barbara, I guess one can never be too prepared...an excuse to get one of those really cool power recliners with the charging stations in the arm I'm thinkin...lol

Barbara Laurie Oh yeah!😄

Christine Oliva Joyce, I used a power recliner and I rented it for a month. If you live in a bigger city they are not hard to find. I knew that when I got home my husband ... Read more

Christine Oliva Joyce, I used a power recliner and I rented it for a month. If you live in a bigger city they are not hard to find. I knew that when I got home my husband would have to go back to work in a few days plus I'm independent soul and the power let me get up and about without assistance. I did use pillows too for my chest. Also it encouraged me to do my walks and at night I could move it around and find the right position and sleep most of the night. I think it really helped with the pain. Everyone is different but 10-15 years from now I will try rent another one for comfort factor.

Joyce Shelby Wow, that option to rent sounds awesome Christine...thanks for sharing that. I appreciate your feedback. I am looking forward to my new recliner!

Bob Fessler Joyce, my 96 year old mother-in-law has a recliner that lifts up and tilts forward. I might borrow it for a few months since she never uses it. That's a ... Read more

Bob Fessler Joyce, my 96 year old mother-in-law has a recliner that lifts up and tilts forward. I might borrow it for a few months since she never uses it. That's a good question you asked. Thanks for bringing it up. I already use a recliner for tv watching and can see how this would be helpful for sleeping during my recovery (ask my wife how well I sleep there). But I've been thinking about getting a wedge for the nights when I'm able to make it to bed. I don't think I can have too many choices when recovering from surgery.

Sophia Ridley I just ordered the bed wedge on Amazon. I put soft pillows on it to make it nicer. Slept on it for months as my shoulder hurt too much to be flat. Be careful ... Read more

Sophia Ridley I just ordered the bed wedge on Amazon. I put soft pillows on it to make it nicer. Slept on it for months as my shoulder hurt too much to be flat. Be careful as you'll slip down it overnight which means you might strain your back as it's at a funny angle.

Great comedy value to see the postman struggle up the drive with this huge oddly shaped parcel !! Beware if you have young kids, they will try and use it as a slide.

Nicola Laker I think I will order a wedge too so I have options. I searched online and managed to find a recliner for a for almost half the price in a mobility store than ... Read more

Nicola Laker I think I will order a wedge too so I have options. I searched online and managed to find a recliner for a for almost half the price in a mobility store than a regular furniture store. They are exactly the same make and design. It makes you wonder how mobility stores can sell then at that price then why can't the huge furniture stores? You can guess who got my business! !!
The chairs are up and we have tried them out. I went downstairs last night to get a glass of water and caught my husband reclined on the chair watching TV. This is the reason I ordered two! 😅 x

Nicola Laker http://www.amazon.co.uk/Aidapt-VG884-Foam-Bed-Wedge/dp/B007M9G6IW

Sophia would this be ok?

Aidapt Foam Bed Wedge: Amazon.co.uk: Health & Personal Care

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Aidapt-VG884-Foam-Bed-Wedge/dp/B007M9G6IW

Sponsored Products are advertisements for products sold by merchants on Amazon.com. When you click on a Sponsored Product ad, you will be taken to an Amazon detail page where you can learn more about the product and purchase it. To learn more about Amazon Sponsored Products, click here.

Mary K I slept in a regular leather recliner that we bought from Sam's club. It was not very expensive, and I found it to be perfect for me. I could push the foot ... Read more

Mary K I slept in a regular leather recliner that we bought from Sam's club. It was not very expensive, and I found it to be perfect for me. I could push the foot rest back down with my feet and legs, and the back adjusts simply by leaning forward or back. I found the variable adjustability of the back to ne very helpful. I did not sleep in bed for about two weeks.

Linda Richards My surgery was 15 days ago. I had mitral valve repair that was minimally invasive. I don't think a recliner is necessary. I bought one of those bedrest ... Read more

Linda Richards My surgery was 15 days ago. I had mitral valve repair that was minimally invasive. I don't think a recliner is necessary. I bought one of those bedrest pillows from Bed Bath Beyond.
http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/faux-suede-backrest-in-red/1042439677?Keyword=tv+pillow.

I prop a bed pillow in front of it and can sit up in bed and watch tv or just prop up just a little to sleep. I sleep with a pillow between me and my husband just so he doesn't hit my side.

I'm a side sleeper so sleeping on my back is not fun!!

I looked at the sleep wedges at Relax the Back and Brookstone but wasn't too crazy about them. Some people might like them, tho.

The first couple days at home are the worst, but it just get better from there.

Faux Suede Backrest in Red

http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/faux-suede-backrest-in-red/1042439677?Keyword=tv+pillow.

Sit back and relax with the plush Faux Suede Backrest. Adorned with a panel of faux suede, a side pocket and convenient handle, the backrest makes it easy to sit up in bed while you read, watch TV, or play video games.

Joyce Shelby Bob, you are right that we cannot have too many options after surgery! Btw...That sounds like an awesome recliner that your mother-in-law has.

Sophia, thanks ... Read more

Joyce Shelby Bob, you are right that we cannot have too many options after surgery! Btw...That sounds like an awesome recliner that your mother-in-law has.

Sophia, thanks for the wedge suggestion. I have two boys and I could definitely see them hitting each other with it...lol

That's a good idea Nicole about going to the mobility store to check out some of the recliners. I didn't realize that they carry some of the same stock as the regular furniture stores.

I know thy everyone is different Mary but that is good to know about you not sleeping in the bed for 2 weeks. I want to be prepared for every scenario.

Hey Linda, thanks for the idea of the pillow at BBB. Another great idea!

I appreciate everyone's feedback. I am going to be so ready to sleep with all my pillows and recliners...lol. 😴

Gail Magnus Joyce, I bought a power recliner and a wedge pillow. I hung out w/the family in the recliner. Then slept in my bed w/the wedge pillow and several other pillows ... Read more

Gail Magnus Joyce, I bought a power recliner and a wedge pillow. I hung out w/the family in the recliner. Then slept in my bed w/the wedge pillow and several other pillows along side of me. I still sit in the recliner (my surgery was almost 7 weeks ago). When I'm not in the recliner, the rest of the family "fights" over it!

Recliner with small pillows elevating my arms. I had a neck pillow on my head. Slept that way for about a month before moving into a bed with lots of pillows. ... Read more

Recliner with small pillows elevating my arms. I had a neck pillow on my head. Slept that way for about a month before moving into a bed with lots of pillows. Able to side sleep 7-8 weeks later "hugging" a pillow. Now, 14 weeks out, pretty much back to normal, although I hear an occasional pop noise. Hope you get lots of rest. Hang in there!

Joyce Shelby Thanks for that Gail and Laura...It seems like the wedge pillows, recliner and pillows are all the popular pick. I might have to get more than one recliner though...lol

Clay Rowe Hi Joyce, my 2 cents...find something that will allow you to lean on your side, almost upright, because you get really tired of being on your back. It was ... Read more

Clay Rowe Hi Joyce, my 2 cents...find something that will allow you to lean on your side, almost upright, because you get really tired of being on your back. It was quite a while before I could sleep flat! Good luck...you have lots of prayers to lighten your burden.

Update posted on...

March 14, 2016

I would like to share this bible verse with my heart family.
Isaiah 41:10:
"Do not be afraid for I am with you. Do not be discouraged for I am your God. I will strengthen and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand."
For those facing surgery including myself, know that we do not have to fight this battle alone! God Bless!

Like | Wanda Mroz, Donna Chaney and 4 others like this

Barbara Laurie Love that Joyce, something to carry in our hearts❤️

Joyce Shelby Yes it is Barbara!

Update posted on...

March 10, 2016

Hello all, what is a realistic time frame to return to work after surgery? I know each person is different but when did you feel well enough to return to work? I have to have an aortic valve replacement with a sternectomy. My job demands a lot of walking and getting in and out the car, I am a field sales rep. I am wondering if six months off of work is too much? Your feedback and experience is appreciated! Thank you!

Like | Christine Oliva and 1 other likes this

Wanda Mroz I don't think with an active job such as yours that six months is too much at all. I had mitral valve and tricuspid repair with a maze procedure. I was off ... Read more

Wanda Mroz I don't think with an active job such as yours that six months is too much at all. I had mitral valve and tricuspid repair with a maze procedure. I was off four months and wish it would have been five. I worked 4 day work weeks for three months. I just felt tired by day's end. I had only done four weeks of rehab and the extra month would have helped me. My job is an emergency dispatch supervisor so physically it isn't as draining but it is high stress. If you can get get five to six months off, I'd go for it. Best of luck on your surgery and recovery 💞

Joyce Shelby Wanda, thank you for your input. I am just nervous about EVERYTHING! My job is physically demanding and I do not want to have any setbacks during the healing ... Read more

Joyce Shelby Wanda, thank you for your input. I am just nervous about EVERYTHING! My job is physically demanding and I do not want to have any setbacks during the healing process. That is a good idea to start with four day work weeks, I will definitely keep that in mind. I am glad that you are on the road to recovery. I will be glad when this whole ordeal is over! Thank you so much for the well wishes!

Clare Auten I went back at 11 weeks post op. I am a special ed teacher at an elementary school, so, fairly demanding. It was fine.

Gail Magnus Joyce, I'm a pharmaceutical sales rep and I had my aortic valve replaced Feb. 1 of this year. My return to work date is April 15. I had a sternerctomy and if ... Read more

Gail Magnus Joyce, I'm a pharmaceutical sales rep and I had my aortic valve replaced Feb. 1 of this year. My return to work date is April 15. I had a sternerctomy and if I sat at a desk all day I could return to work a lot sooner. But because of being in outside sales my STD is a bit longer. I'm also anemic, which can be very common post op. It can make u feel tired, though. My hematocrit is continuing to rise and my energy level is improving, too. I share that because other factors may contribute to your return to work as well.

Joyce Shelby Wow, Claire and Gail! I hope that I can bounce back that quickly. I just don't know what to expect, and my dr is telling me 3-6 months depending on what he ... Read more

Joyce Shelby Wow, Claire and Gail! I hope that I can bounce back that quickly. I just don't know what to expect, and my dr is telling me 3-6 months depending on what he has to do. Well, I guess I will know in a few weeks...lol. Thanks for you input!

Wanda Mroz If you don't have to rush back, take your time and let the body heal! Your doctor and you will decide what is best. Hugs!

Joyce Shelby Yes Wanda, you are right about that. I just need to take a chill pill...lol. These are all thoughts pre-surgery. I am sure post-surgery, my thoughts will ... Read more

Joyce Shelby Yes Wanda, you are right about that. I just need to take a chill pill...lol. These are all thoughts pre-surgery. I am sure post-surgery, my thoughts will be completely different! I will be begging for more time off...lol! Hugs to u too! :-)

Denise Campbell Good luck. God will get you and me through. fully rely on God. Keep us posted

I think it depends on you and the demands of your job. I am a psychologist working in an integrated primary care setting. I was cleared to go back part-time ... Read more

I think it depends on you and the demands of your job. I am a psychologist working in an integrated primary care setting. I was cleared to go back part-time at 6 weeks and full time at 7 weeks. Was psychologically ready to go back to work, but my body has just started to feel fully healed at 3 months post op. I had a partial upper sternotomy. Good luck!

Joyce Shelby Yes Denise, God Will definitely get us all through this and thank you for your words. It looks like the range of recovery is across the board. Laura, thanks ... Read more

Joyce Shelby Yes Denise, God Will definitely get us all through this and thank you for your words. It looks like the range of recovery is across the board. Laura, thanks for your input and your well wishes too! It is great to have everyone's feedback!

Update posted on...

March 6, 2016

Can someone tell me what a heart pillow is for? I have read various posts about a heart pillow. Pardon my ignorance, I have surgery next month and I have no idea what this is. Thanks!

Like | 2 people like this

Barbara Laurie It's a pillow you use to hold against your chest if you have to cough, sneeze etc, keeps the pain down .. I suppose it helps, but I don't know from experience 😄🌹

Gary Stripling Your best friend post-OHS!

Wanda Mroz You'll cherish that pillow. Even after you no longer use it.

Sophia Ridley Wish we had them here, had to use a rolled towel against my incision when coughing / sneezing, not quite the same!!

Joyce Shelby Oh....okay, thanks everyone for that clarification! I really appreciate all of your responses!

Christine Oliva I used a small bed pillow and covered it with a pillow case so I could change it if necessary. Barbara is correct it is a necessary evil the first few weeks ... Read more

Christine Oliva I used a small bed pillow and covered it with a pillow case so I could change it if necessary. Barbara is correct it is a necessary evil the first few weeks for coughing or sneezing and you will cough. Remember to take it with you on your ride home. Sometimes hospitals will give you one, but mine did not. Have a great day!

Barbara Laurie Christine, Great suggestion, I have a 5 hr ride home (dear Lord, help me!) and I am going to bring my soft medium sized couch pillow with me, in case there ... Read more

Barbara Laurie Christine, Great suggestion, I have a 5 hr ride home (dear Lord, help me!) and I am going to bring my soft medium sized couch pillow with me, in case there is none at the hospital. Just throw a pillow case on it and that'll be one less thing to worry about 😄💕

You will learn to love the heart pillow and to bear hug yourself when you don't have it. You will also want pillows to support your arms right after surgery (to take pressure off chest).

Christine Oliva Yes a few extra pillows for your arms really help. I remember those self bear hugs which is one the first things they teach you in the hospital. I actually ... Read more

Christine Oliva Yes a few extra pillows for your arms really help. I remember those self bear hugs which is one the first things they teach you in the hospital. I actually felt a little sad when I put my pillow friends away but felt a sense of victory too.

Joyce Shelby That is a great idea about the pillow ladies, I will make sure my husband keeps one in the car in case the hospital doesn't provide one. I am sure I will treasure ... Read more

Joyce Shelby That is a great idea about the pillow ladies, I will make sure my husband keeps one in the car in case the hospital doesn't provide one. I am sure I will treasure those pillows forever when I get through all of this! I sure hope I can avoid the coughs and sneezes....yikes! Barbara, good luck with that five hour ride home! Have a great day ladies! 🌺

Update posted on...

March 5, 2016

Ok, I am jumping ahead of myself but for all the post-op people, how long was it before you were able to drive? Just curious!

Thanks!

Like |

Robert Joyner I am one week post op. My doctor told me 3-4 weeks before I could drive. Of course my chest pain is still bad and I don't even think about driving. I would ... Read more

Robert Joyner I am one week post op. My doctor told me 3-4 weeks before I could drive. Of course my chest pain is still bad and I don't even think about driving. I would put driving as a low priority for now. Get well and I wish you the best.

Gregg Nissly I drove after five weeks. Steering is one issue, but you also don't want that air bag going off!!

Clare Auten I think I was at 4 weeks.

Bill Cherry It seems like in my case it was when I stopped the pain medication and started phase II cardio rehab so about 3 weeks after operation.

Sophia Ridley Here in UK I wasn't to drive until 6wks post. I didn't actually drive until 10wks (didn't feel ready), which was good for my fitness as walked much more.

Joyce Shelby Thanks everyone for your input. I feel silly asking about driving when I am about to have open heart surgery. Probably need to get my priorities straight...Always ... Read more

Joyce Shelby Thanks everyone for your input. I feel silly asking about driving when I am about to have open heart surgery. Probably need to get my priorities straight...Always in mom mode I guess...lol

I hope that you all are doing well with your healing! Thanks again for your input! :-)

Elaine Cutri That was a good question. If you need to get around, you need to know how long you might need help. My husband called it "Driving Miss Elaine" ;-)

Clare Auten No silly questions here. Especially if you usually are the taxi for others (children).

Joyce Shelby Yes, you are right Elaine, I am so used to doing everything. Well looks like it will be driving Mrs. Joyce for a while...lol

Joyce Shelby Yep, mom's taxi indeed Clare! I am trying to get organized as I only have a little over four weeks until surgery....yikes!

My surgeon cleared me after 3 weeks with no limitations, but I didn't drive on a highway for about 4-5 weeks. Steering is hard that first month.

peggy Pulliam My surgeon told me I could drive as soon as I was off all narcotics and I guess that varies from person to person.

Christine Oliva Six weeks and I'm glad my doctor had me wait. At that point no pain meds, tight feeling in chest gone along with most of the pain and close to normal mobility. ... Read more

Christine Oliva Six weeks and I'm glad my doctor had me wait. At that point no pain meds, tight feeling in chest gone along with most of the pain and close to normal mobility. If I did have to cough while driving I did not need a pillow any longer and yes even the dreaded sneeze was not a problem. I live in Cali so lots of traffic and they were pretty firm.

Wanda Mroz I was cleared at four weeks but didn't drive till five weeks out almost. You'll be a back seat passenger for a bit!

Joyce Shelby Laura, Peggy, Christine and Wanda...ladies, thanks so much for your input. It gives me great insight on the help I will need as I have two active boys in school ... Read more

Joyce Shelby Laura, Peggy, Christine and Wanda...ladies, thanks so much for your input. It gives me great insight on the help I will need as I have two active boys in school and sports. I work in the Chicago suburbs and my husband works in Chicago and catches the train so there will be some major adjustments for my husband...I keep worrying about him being able to handle everything...I worry too much I guess☺️

Hello to Everyone!

Journal posted on March 4, 2016

Well everyone, I am thankful for modern medicine and the doctor who initially discovered my aortic aneurysm ten years ago. After ten years of CT scans, echos, EKG's,angiograms and blood tests, the time has finally come for a valve replacement.

Yes, I knew the time would eventually come but the words cut like a knife when my doctor told me. I cried that morning he told me that I would need heart surgery but through God's grace, I picked myself up and now I am prepared to come out on the other side healthy and whole.

I thank God for the health that I have been able to have over the last ten years. All I want, is to be around a long time for my husband and boys.

I am thankful for this community and for those who understand the emotions and fear of heart surgery. I wish you all heart health and happiness!

GOD BLESS!

Like | Barbara Laurie and 2 others like this

Barbara Adams Praying for you! God will see you through!

Sounds like you are ready to get past this hurdle. Best wishes to you! We are all rooting for you!

Joyce Shelby Thank you Barbara for your prayers and Laura for your well wishes. It mean a lot! All the best to you both!

Christine Oliva You've come to a great site. Heart surgery veterans here with great practical suggestions. Ask away. My best for your full recovery.

Elaine Cutri We're in your corner!

Joyce Shelby Christine and Elaine, thank you so much! I already feel better about being able to talk about this with those who understand. I kept a lot bottled up because ... Read more

Joyce Shelby Christine and Elaine, thank you so much! I already feel better about being able to talk about this with those who understand. I kept a lot bottled up because people would look at me and say, "you look fine" when I didn't feel fine. It is great to have this group for support!

Wanda Mroz You'll get through it because we are all stronger than we think! 💞

Joyce Shelby Thank you Wanda, you are right!