Kathleen's Journal

Hey All, Feeling numb. Just got my date- next Thursday the 20th. Numb. I’m having aortic and mitral valve replacement. Removing the left atrial appendage- lessen stroke risk. And remove the subaortic membrane that grew back. Surgery at Alexian Brothers NW Chicago. Feeling sick to my stomach. Lots of tears. So many things I have yet to do. One day at a time. One breath at a time. One step at a time.

Blessings. I am headed to have a Cardiac Cath I about 2 hours and am struggling with anxiety about the whole saga-this test-and my future OHS. The trauma from my 1st surgery 22 years ago is really hampering my peace of mind. Crying jags. Luckily it isn’t all the time Has anyone used EMDR to relieve trauma? Any others have volcano sized anxiety.? A bit dramatic aren’t we Kathleen. Thanks for your prayers for continued courage. Peace

Good day. Today I am having my 1st appt with the surgeon. I have subvalvular membrane aortic stenosis-congenital. Membrane removed in 1997-but has grown back.I do not know if this surgeon has performed this surgery before and if he has removed a reoccurring membrane. My surgeon from 1997 is still practicing and is not in the group with my cardiologist. How do I approach the subject of 2nd opinion? Do I ask my surgeon to send the files to my old surgeon? Does the cardiologist do that? When do I ask? Will they be mad if I chose a different surgeon and a different hospital? Old childhood trauma-will I get into trouble? Of course not says my adult. I am open to feedback, advice, etc how to handle this? Peace

I am Kathleen from Illinois and this is my first time posting. I am preparing myself for upcoming surgery. No date yet. Appointment with the surgeon on the August 22nd. I believe they may be fixing 4 issues with my heart. I was diagnosed with Congenital Subaortic Membrane stenosis in 1997 at the age of 42. They removed the membrane that was making me anemic because the blood cells would hit the membrane and die. No symptoms that I was aware of. Pacemaker installed 2 years ago. Low heart rate. Now the membrane has grown back-rare that I have this birth defect and rare that it grows back. And I need an aortic and mitral value replacement and possibly an ablation because of Afib. I realize things have changed drastically in the past 22 years. And I am 22 years older. Trying very hard to stay in the moment and not project the "what ifs?" I will accept whatever outcome happens but my anxiety now is a bit overwhelming. I am doing what I can to prepare myself spiritually, emotionally and physically before the surgery. Ordered Adam's book yesterday. Hey why isn't it here this instant! lol I read stories and realize I am probably better off than some but comparing myself only leads to shame. So none of that thank you very much. Lots of Gratitude Does anyone know of exercises to do before surgery to help with the shoulder and back pain after surgery? Love the support that y'all give to one another. May All Beings Know Peace, Kathleen