Kimberly's Journal

Richard Munson  Its an opioid pain medication i am reading. Some interesting potential side effects you may want to read about. 

Kimberly Eisenhut  Yep, maybe a no for me . Thank you for responding . My iron was down from 147 on Oct 17th to 10 this morning! They're telling me not from Internal bleeding but I'm not convinced . They said could be from pericarditis . Also attribute my irregular EKGs to pericarditis too. Just had another echo . I'm currently in a "outpatient observation" room. Then will be transferred to inpatient tomorrow if I'm staying, which I said I am until they figure this out and get me on right path and know I'll do ok on Prednisone 40 mg for a while then taper off and just take colchicine for 6 months. What's funny is I've had to ask for my iron supplement 5 times today and still don't have it! I usually take in morning before breakfast. Dr mentioned iron infusion this morning, but then decided against it later, well I didn't know this and then why not at least be sure I got some extra iron, hello!? My goodness ! Done going to ER for a while, too much for me and my kids thank you! Sorry for the rant, bit one hour of sleep and just so done with some of this.

Kate Watson  I have a weird opposite reaction to tramadol, like it keeps me awake. It’s been great for pain for me at times. But it can affect heart rhythms so not sure they’d want to give it to you with abnormal EKGs. 

Richard Munson  We all have different reactions to things as we are all different. I get nasty red itchy welts on my chest from from the stick on patches they hook wires to in the O.R. Never did in years past. New kind of glue? So this time they used baby patches but here i am 2 days later itching 3 red square welts on my chest. 

Suzette Schear  I’m so grateful you’re staying there.  I stayed in an outpatient room.  It was easier for them to get to the bottom of things.  Hoping you get a direction and the correct meds to be on. 

Kimberly Eisenhut  We have a plan in place and I'll be going home tomorrow from what I'm told. Taken off ibuprofin and put on 40 mg Prednisone once a day for another week, if my hr-CRP drops back down to normal, below 5. It was 140s on Wed. today it was 84, hoping it'll be lower tomorrow and so on. Then taper off Prednisone for few weeks and hope no more flare ups of inflammation and pericarditis pain. Have to keep taking the pantoprezole to protect my stomach also. They really hate these meds, but only thing that works along with the colchicine for acute pericarditis that keeps flaring up with only colchicine. The colchicine you take for about 3-6 months. Then there's another plan if that doesn't work . There's a new biologic injection and one that's been around for like two years that work really well, made by same company and the trial one is supposed to be better with fewer side affects. Hoping to not have to go there though. Hoping my body relaxes and my heart stops being so mad at me.
No more hospitals for a while please 🙏 Oh, forgot, my iron is so low that Dr ordered me to eat beef for a meal once a day for a week then get it checked again. They would have given me iron infusion my hemoglobin was 7 or below, bit it was 8.9 this morning. Weekly bloodwork for a while too. Think I'm covered👍
 Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend ❤️

Aaron Bader  You're a warrior for yourself in every way. Thinking of you and standing with you to get well and onward in your recovery.

Kimberly Eisenhut  Thank you everyone. I came for an apt early this morning with my long time cardiologist Dr Vera Rigolin and my pericardia Dr stopped in also. They both agreed after seeing my pain again today, especially when I laid down for the EKG, that I should stay here at least a few days until they can get my pericarditis on track and get my inflammation down. I've been following their exact instructions, but just keeps acting up . Was told if the inflammation doesn't go down and stay down by end of my stay, they will most likely get me in this trial for a biologic they've had great success with for this. Injections every other week. I'll try to update tomorrow.
Kate has been my email buddy now, which I'm so grateful for, thank you Kate😊🫶

Rose Madura  Glad they are keeping you.  Inflammation issues are very common. I had them and it took 4 readmissions before it all got sorted out.  Hang in there Kimberly. 

Melinda Donahue  Kimberly did you have a repair or replacement and does this have anything to do with your metal allergy?

Kimberly Eisenhut  I didn't think to ask about possible allergy, but it is a titanium Medtronic contour ring repair and the clips put in during surgery were titanium, so they said it's not that. Saying it could take months to a year or two to settle down and may need biologic injections. Also need iron infusion today because m they want my hemoglobin up if they have to use a biologic. It's a brand new one and had their first person on it recently, I think maybe today. We will see. 

Richard Munson  I hope you give that a lot of thought before you take it. I know you are in panic mode step girl but experimental drugs are just that, experimental. Hopefully they are not missing something obvious that is staring them in the face. Are you positive you are not allergic to titanium also? A year or 2 to settle down? Granted, i am no doctor, but a year or two seems like an awfully long time for anything to settle down. My question: if this drug is new and not used by that many patients, how can they say it might take a year or two to settle down. Just askin. 

Richard Munson  Pure titanium does not contain nickel but some titanium alloys do from what i am reading. One assumes medical devices to be pure but who knows in this day and age and especially if imported from china. 

Deena Z  Richard and Melinda made some astute points.  It’s pretty important to get to root cause, as the docs are now offering a  trial drug with a universe of one patient that they have used it on. (Granted not an easy question, but I wouldn’t let them off the hook.) Here is the number for your Medtronic ring.  Technical Product Support: 800-646-4633, option 1 (24/7).
I dont know how little of an exposure to nickel will set your allergy off, but if it can be minute amounts, you might inquire about the factory where your ring is made.  - that is, are other metals also manufactured there?  Prayer your way, Gladiator Kimberly. ♥️

Rose Madura  Great advise given here Kimberly.  Please keep us posted and I agree - don't just take an experimental drug without finding the root cause.

Melinda Donahue  Instead of the trial medication can’t you be prescribed the same meds as the hockey player (name?) in Adam’ video 

Fidel Martínez Ruiz  Regarding titanium, it´s very rare for an allergy to appear. It´s advisable to keep the traceability of the ring as Deena says, but seems unlikely.

Ana Brusso  Dear Kimberly, I keep praying for your recovery every day. You are going to get better soon. 🙏❤️‍🩹

Adam Pick  Sure thing... Were you aware of the Henrik's story? He's the former NHL goalie of the NY Rangers who underwent open heart surgery that led to pericarditis. You might want to check this out...  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKzmNOmgF8k

Patricia Miller  This is an excellent movie!  Great suggestion Adam.  I found it very humbling. He still wanted to continue playing ice hockey and worked so hard w/ his recovery from OHS.  I did not know I had the same surgeon as him till I saw the Dr. Roselli interview towards the end of the movie.   
I had pericarditis after my mitral valve surgery.  (not at Cleveland Clinic).  I tolerated Colchicine well and my CRP (inflammatory marker) returned to nml and my chest pain gradually resolved.  My pain was on the mild side.  Hurt when leaning over.  Most have pain when supine.   I was put on a steroid pulse, but my new cardiologist at the time recommended staying the course w/ Colchicine.  I could not take ibuprophen bc of decreased EF.  Tylenol helped.  Steroids can prolong or cause rebound if I remember correctly.  My first cardiologist was only going to treat me for a few wks w/ the Colchicine.  I was transitioning to new cardiologist at the time and she said standard was 12 wks of Colchicine so continued on for 12 wk course.  She paused my cardiac rehab for a couple wks.  I did not have pericarditis after my second OHS (David procedure- valve sparing aortic aneurysm repair), but did have mod-large pericardial effusion for several months.  Ironically it resolved after brief Colchicine dosing post cardiac ablation.  I continued to work through my pericarditis issues but was further out from surgery than you Kimberly.   I learned that there are people that experience pericarditis unrelated to heart surgery.  Hang in there.  It's a bump in the road, but you are strong and driven.   Hopefully there are more and more good days that replace the bummer days.  

Kimberly Eisenhut  Patricia , I'm back inpatient at Northwestern in Chicago and the pericardia specialist just upped my dose of Prednisone to 40 mg and still take ng 600 mg ibuprofen 3 x a day and the PPI drug for stomach and colchicine 2 x a day! . I'm very worried about the high dose of Prednisone and Ibuprofen. You only took colchicine? They build me protocol is colchicine and high dose ibuprofin

Suzette Schear  Sometimes it’s just best to go even if there is a slight question rather see you safe and sometime honestly it’s better to be there all testing and stuff gets done rather than to keep driving from one doc to another.  Hope you have a better morning sending love n hugs

Pamela Gregory  You are having such a difficult time. I kind of agree with Suzette, don't mess around if this doesn't feel right. At this point you know what real pain is and it does't seem right to me that it is getting worse. At night of coarse, everything is magnified, but go if you are concerned. Sending love and prayers

Richard Munson  I second the second opinion opinion. Rose has yet to agree but its coming. She may be shoveling snow. 

Kimberly Eisenhut  I'm in. ER at SSM in Janesville WI. They don't even have cardiologists here. My CRP is up pretty high at 42, was much lower last week. Probably should have stayed in Illinois , my daughter wanted to help me though. Dr here is communicating with Dr Al-Kazaz the pericardia clinic Dr.at Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute. I'm kind of scared

Kimberly Eisenhut  Added Prednisone to other meds for a few weeks and then taper ibuprofen and Prednisone when numbers come down. Going downtown in morning with my daughter and son again. I almost want to just stay there until this is under control . Please, anyone who is or helas dealt with pericarditis, please reach out so we can talk. I really need some input and support with this. Very alone right now . 
Adam, can you please help me find some people here who've dealt with this after surgery?
Thank you 

Kimberly Eisenhut  Specialist said I'd have to be put on this new study biologic they're having success with, but it can take two years to get better!

Deena Z  Kimberly, i would talk to Dr Al-Kazzz directly, if you have not already.  It may help decrease your stress.

Suzette Schear  Kimberly sounds like they are getting the numbers down this is good agree with Deena speak to that doctor .  Don’t go home until you are stable physically and mentally with understanding what going on I would call you but I don’t have your number.  You did right thing 

Kimberly Eisenhut  I'm home and Dr Al- Kazaz called my phone himself while I was in hospital out here in WI. On Prednisone 20 mg also now, then taper off both that and ibuprofen for next month or two . Man, this is a lot! He also spoke to Dr there. I'm seeing my cardiologist downtown Chicago tomorrow and he's going to try to stop in during my apt too. Gerring even more bloodwork, and then every week after that. I just got an email from our friend Kate! She's been so wonderful and we are going to be communicating more now . Thank you everyone , love you all so much🫶

Rose Madura  Praying for you Kimberly.  It wouldn't hurt to get a 2nd opinion for peace of mind, if nothing else.

Kimberly Eisenhut  I don't have other choices for hospitals, only Northwestern is in network out here for me. I don't have Medicare as I'm only 60.

Kimberly Eisenhut  Oh, and you'll see a lot of "copycats" on Etsy, but I'm one of the few original shops selling stamped lucky penny keychains since 2015. It seems every new idea I come up with is copied,even my wedding penny I came up with . "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue and a lucky penny for your shoe" I made a cute card to go with it and add the keyring and split ring for attaching later after wedding to keep as a keepsake on your keychain. I guess that's just the way it goes. I've also had brides sew them into their garter or bouquet 🫶💐 I just love being crafty and making small affordable gifts anyone can afford, that make a lasting impression. Also, that will be carried everywhere, not thrown in a drawer or forgotten. Just proud of my little shop😊 
A little chest pain last night and today from pericaditis, but hoping it goes away soon. Findings from cardiac MRI said acute and pericardia Dr said we have a long road ahead and keep hr below 100. Easier said than done , but I'm trying 👍
Hope everyone has a good evening; sending big hugs and love to anyone who needs it🫂❤️

Suzette Schear  I’m so glad your back to your craft I’ve embellished a mirror with shell just having a hard time making a seahorse out of shells.  All you can do is try and keep moving forward as you know so well. Hugs back to you

Kimberly Eisenhut  I love it! Did you collect the shells yourself? I have a large mirror I may just do this with. I love the ocean🫶

Suzette Schear  All the shells i collected except the starfish on the top and the two resin seahorses I bought.  I created a my own seahorse but it was sad looking .  Mirror became heavy had to put back on it.  Love to see it if you do it was very relaxing to do

Kimberly Eisenhut  I love the process though of making something out of nothing like this. It takes a lot of hot or miss, but that's half the fun😊🫶 I actually like the first one, very creative!

Jyll Welte  I’ve had fluid backing up into my lungs too with pleural effusion showing up in my CTs & x-rays.  I had never realized that my chronic runny nose, throat congestion & coughing was all connected to the fluid in my lungs due to the Mitral leak. I can definitely tell when I’m overdoing it. It’s like somebody turned on a faucet. It makes sense now, but it took a lot of googling!!!

Kimberly Eisenhut  I'm so sorry about your new problems with your heart Jyll. I just read your story and I'm in awe of how strong you must be💪
You are the definition of a "heart warrior"!
Hopefully Adam can do some interviews with, maybe not surgeons, but cardiac specialists and pericardia Drs who are better equipped to answer these types of questions. I spoke to Dr Malaisrie the other day via telehealth and when I asked about these types of things and his take and opinion on treatments etc., he told me that is not his area and to direct all questions and such about pericarditis and pleural effusion to Cardiologist and Pericardia Clinic . So that's what I'm doing now . Surgeon and his team are out of the rest of my journey now. I do think he gets some updates as to my new condition though. 

Kimberly Eisenhut  Who is your Cardiologist at Northwestern? Mine is Dr Vera Rigolin, you'd love her. You should see of there is a specialty your cardiologist can refer you to in order to help you now with the effusion at Northwestern. Don't wait , see what you can do now so when you get the surgery your lungs will be in better shape. Sorry if you've already done this, I'm just trying to think of possibilities that may help. I'm pretty new to that after affects of heart surgery.
Sending gentle hugs and lots of love tonight🫂❤️🫶
Message through MyChart or call them and ask for a call back from your team, they respond pretty quickly . Never be worried about "bothering" them or being pushy. You have to advocate for yourself and never feel you're being a burden.

Richard Munson  Just be happy it was discovered because you spoke up. Its a potential side affect of open heart surgery i read about on this site. Prayers on the way from your hvs step dad. One step back, 2 forward. 

Kimberly Eisenhut  Yes Richard, I am glad I advocate for myself. I sometimes wonder what would happen if we did not. Thank you for your prayers my wonderful hvs step dad🫂❤️ I will be watching my BP closely also, as it dipped down to 86/58 last night. Please keep me posted on how you are doing and any test results you get.

Deena Z  Not the (temporary) outcome you want after OHS.  Totally get that.  The one upside is that I’d rather be in the hospital than at home in pain.  Ask a ton of questions  and let them take care of you. 

Rose Madura  I'm glad you are getting the care you need. I experienced this after OHS but didn't have pain like you did.  By BP dropped, I went into Afib. I needed to have surgery again to put in a pericardial window.  This too shall pass.  Take care.  🙏❤️‍🩹

Kimberly Eisenhut  Thank you Deena and Rose. I'm so grateful to have all of my heart valve family here that understand the ups and downs. Truly love you all🫶

Aaron Bader  Thinking of you and grateful you are your own best advocate. Something felt wrong and you said so. You will beat back this bump in the road, I have no doubt. In the meantime, those hugs will keep coming your way.

Richard Munson  I read someplace that up to 40% of ohs patients have this. In varying degrees i assume. You are in the right place. 

Ernie Keen  Been there, done that. Pericarditis sucks. Yes, it's frustrating having setbacks like that. Recovery from heart surgery was weird, because it wasn't linear. You don't just start healing and it gets better EVERY day. It's a roller coaster where you have good days and bad days, but there are fewer bad days as you recover.  Good luck.

J Alexander Lassally  Younger patients have a more active immune system - ergo the pericarditis. Had it, too. Colchicine should work wonders. 

J Alexander Lassally  Richard - your immune system is like an Oldsmobile battery in -40 northern Maine in January... (just kidding, of course!)

Patricia Miller  I had pericarditis after my first OHS.  Mitral valve repair.  My symptoms were dismissed, but also not as pronounced as yours Kimberly.  CRP and symptoms responded well to Colchicine and a steroid pulse.  No trouble tolerating it.  Hope you are feeling better soon.  

Pamela Gregory  I had it too but had to have a tube reinserted to drain it. Spent another week in the hospital shortly after I was discharged. Hopefully the Colchicine will work for you

Kimberly Eisenhut  Seems to be helping, I hope I don't end up back here, I love the downtown Northwestern, but here in the suburbs, not so good😕 it's just not run well at all here. Mostly alone here too, so no one to help me out when nurses don't respond or get right meds etc. Going home this afternoon, so praying to please get better and not come back here, please!!! 🙏🙏🙏

Kimberly Eisenhut  Well, home to stay with mom that is. Gave my youngest son a few days off to go hang out in WI with his sister and make some money this weekend. He needed a break from all this and worrying about me. He will be back at my mom's tomorrow to help if needed. My mother does not help much and is very non involved or communicative at all with Drs, when I go to hospital , medications, what my diagnosis are, ect. I just am there so someone else is around, in case. My son stays with me most of the time, sleeps on her couch, especially when she goes to her pt job at home goods . He doesn't like me to be alone, which I appreciate, especially since I've had my share of trips to ER and now this. 

Suzette Schear  Oh Kimberly, you’re back in the hospital but glad it’s found and they are working on you to get you back home.  Your journey has been tough sending prayers and love your way.  Must have been really scary but so glad you called sorry you have to go through this sincerely . 

Kate Watson  Just seeing this Kimberly, and I'm sorry to hear it. I've had pericarditis before and it's very painful. You may recall I've had my many setbacks too and it is frustrating. Just remember this journey is non-linear and up and down for a while though. Very soon you'll get to where it's just up and up. Thinking of you and sending you all the well wishes! Hope we get an update soon with good news. 

Melinda Donahue  Kimberly how are you feeling. I hope you are improving !!! Did you go home yet ? Is this all under control. ?  Sending love and prayers. 

Susan Lynn  I agree with Richard.   I had sensations from nerve regeneration,  but this pain sounds different. Good luck,  Kimberly. 

Pamela Gregory  There is a heart warrior on this site named Clara (I think) who had a mini thoracotomy and had a difficult time with pain for quite some time. Hopefully yours is nerve related but definitely let your Dr. know what is going on

J Alexander Lassally  Kim - I'm sure it is nerve related - you know in thoracotomy, they manipulate one's anatomy significantly... I am betting it will remit with time..  

Kimberly Eisenhut  I told nurse today and she will check everything in morning. I've also reached out to cardiologist and she's getting back to me asap also. It's just frustrating because I feel I go one step forward then two steps back. I just spoke to someone on another site with heart valve patients and one of them said with her right sided mini thorecotomy she had NO pain, was in hospital 3 days and no pain meds. I know, I know ; "Don't compare yourself to others !" It's hard sometimes though🥴

Rose Madura  I know it's frustrating at times. But I think you are doing well after one month.  We all have a different set of complications and yes, you are correct not to compare your recovery to others.  It's not a good place to go...🙏❤️‍🩹

Fidel Martínez Ruiz  Kim, I also think that is nerve related, above all bearing in mind that you feels it worse during deep breathing. Anyway it doesn´t hurt to see cardiologist.

John Cook  I did not get clips (that I’m aware of).  I did get an ‘implant summary card’ for when I need a future MRI.

I think it is weird that it wasn’t mentioned but they could have forgot.

Richard Munson  I think my hvs step daughter needs to find everything there is to know about the clips. Forgot ? Not possible. Clips for what? Possible they are very necessary, but for what is a fair question. The fact they are titanium not nickel is luck? Not thinking luck should play a roll in ohs. I would be all over them like a new suit. In a professional way of course. Unlikely is also a strange response about migration. 

Rose Madura  I am in Crystal Lake for the weekend. My husband and I will be at the Culver's in McHenry at 1:30 pm tomorrow (Friday). Care to join us for an ice cream (custard)?  I'd love to meet up with a fellow warrior if you feel up to it.    

Valerie Allen  Could it have been the left atrial clips they often do so blood clots don’t form? Just speculation. I asked for this to be done but I had a BAV. 

Marie Myers  Hemastatic clips are commonly used in surgery to stop bleeding. Some vessels  are tied off, and some are clipped (many are titanium or steel) . I wouldn’t give it another thought…
I got the valve card, but that is the only one I got. I had no problems ever going through security at airports..

Fidel Martínez Ruiz  Kim, you can rest easy wearing titanium inside. It´s a perfectly biocompatible metal and has been used decades in traumatology dentistry and many other medical branches. Besides, when somebody open your grave in a hundred years or more, will find some titanium pieces along with a beautiful skeleton. What a treasure!!

Deena Z  I second Richard in supporting the experienced opinion of our Nurse Marie.  And I think everyone receives a card for each valve repaired/replaced.   

Kimberly Eisenhut  Well, I thank you all for your input😊👍 I did ask to speak to or get a telehealth visit with surgeon just to clarify the clips question. I've not heard back. I understand they are necessary at times, I just don't understand why, when I asked at my follow up, as well as before my follow up, the nurse of the team did not directly answer the question and seemed to deflect instead . It should be a very simple answer and valid one, as Richard said. I will reach out again to team and expect a call or video visit, especially since I did not see my surgeon at my follow up. I think that's fair. Thoughts?
I also would like to see the proof the clips are titanium as I was told in MyChart message. Or I think I can actually request the full report of the surgery including all notes and such . I'll just do that. Richard, which would you do? Some step fatherly advice is welcome🙏
Marie, I trust your opinion and I'm sure worrying about it after the fact is pretty pointless, but I'd like to know what to watch for in future as far as if they do migrate, as team nurse said is possible. Just like you get your repair checked yearly, I'd want the clips checked also. 
Melinda, have you talked to to your Dr about the wires they left in and what they do to check on them? I guess when i think about it , it really doesn't matter, as it's done and for whatever reason, I'm sure it saved me from bleeding during surgery, so is pointless to worry about. Just would like to be fully informed is all. I'm planning on making and sending the whole team and cardiac floor at Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute a custom  keychain as soon as I am able. I truly appreciate my repaired valve🫶 looking forward to a long, healthy life with my beautiful ❤️

Richard Munson  Thanks, sun is out here, pretty warm. Top down day, not many if any left. Drove 100 miles, my only destination was dunkin donuts for a strawberry frosted donut and a sabrinas strawberry daydream  cold drink. Clogged arteries no doubt. But happy ones.

Kimberly Eisenhut  That sounds like a perfect day Richard, wish I could've been riding along😊 So you like strawberry I presume 🍓

Kimberly Eisenhut  I'm going to see if I can get that strawberry daydream tomorrow! Just looked it up and sounds so yummy🍹

Kimberly Eisenhut  I wish I could physically be in a room with all of you and just talk, hug and feel the love and understanding we have for each other. I can honestly say I truly would not be this strong and feel supported if not for the compassion and friendship here. My family, especially my 20 year old amazing son Matthew, has been here for me every step of the way so far, but it's others who've been where I am that truly understand, can give advice, words of wisdom and strengthen me and give me hope❤️🫶 

Kimberly Eisenhut  Well, not feeling better but still need to make money right!? Bills don't pay themselves, am I right? 👍💪

Janet Gaffney  You’ve got some really cute things in your shop! Perfect stocking stuffers for Christmas!
 I just ordered two keychains - one each for my kiddos - and this one for me because it’s just so appropriate as I undergo my upcoming surgery! 

Aaron Bader  I'm sorry to hear these first few weeks back home post-surgery have been so tough, Kim.  I had a few nosebleeds myself early on (also was on blood thinners), and that's definitely unnerving.  What I do know - your strength and the support of your family will get you through this tough patch and continuing on your recovery.

Pulling hard for you and cheering you on.  You got this!

Richard Munson  Seems like a urine and stool test for blood loss makes sense. Maybe tell them you want it. Urine test can detect blood very quickly. Just stay strong hvs step daughter and take charge. 

Richard Munson  Believe it or not we just had a plane crash on the highway pretty close to our neighborhood. Both occupants perished. Not sure why a small plane would take off in a noreaster but people take risks i guess. It was so bad we decided not to walk shadow. 

Marie Myers  It took about 8 weeks for my blood count to come up. Just how low is your hemoglobin/hematocrit? Are you feeling dizzy or excessively weak? I was put on iron right out of the hospital, and was advised to add whey protein to my overnight oats or smoothies. And i am curious, do you know what your blood count was before surgery?

John Cook  It sounds like your anemia issues are much worse than mine.  With iron supplements, taking them with something acidic & high in Vitamin C helps absorption a lot.  That’s why they specifically recommend taking it with orange juice.

If I have the time, I try to take my supplement an hour before I eat and take my other pills, especially naproxen and Pepcid because they both inhibit iron absorption.

I see my rheumatologist Thursday again about my anemia.  Right now I’m inclined to believe it’s the arthritis medication he gave me causing mine.

Kimberly Eisenhut  WBC, 6.8
RBC, 2.83
HGB, 8.4
HCT, 27.4
MCV, 96.8
MCH , 29.7
MCHC, 30.7
RDW , 15.7
PLT, 451
MPV, 8.7
Surgery was Sept 26th
Hemoglobin went up from 7.4 since sat. at least

Kimberly Eisenhut  I haven't had a nosebleed, blood in urine or stool that I can tell. Did ask for stool test for blood, but told not necessary yet.

Rose Madura  It sounds like Dr Malaisrie and his team are on top of it. I didn't have your type of issue but I had plenty and I know how scary and unnerving it can be.  I know you would feel safer and more secure back in the hospital but as easy as it is for me to say it, try to trust your doctors.  Patience is hard to come by when you are worried and I get that. I'll say a prayer right now for you to have peace and to get the answers you need.  God bless you. 🙏❤️‍🩹

Marie Myers  I was around 8 when I came home from the hospital. 2 weeks doesnt seem that long to be very worried, since your Hgb has come up 1 gram since last Saturday. Continue to eat nourishing, high protein foods, and like John said, take the iron with something acidic with Vit C like Orange juice.. Think blood-building thoughts!!

Pamela Gregory  Thinking about you Kimberly and sending prayers for improvement in this bloodwork! I do remember my bloodwork was a mess for quite a while after surgery. They actually gave me a blood transfusion sometime during my 2nd week in the hospital. After a couple of months it did get much better

John Cook  You’re definitely more anemic than I was.  I don’t know it’s a little or a lot.

Around Week 5, mine were:
RBC: 3.92
Hemoglobin: 10.3
Hematocrit: 33.5
MCV: 86
MCH: 26.3
MCHC: 30.7
RDW: 15.9
Platelets: 406
MPV: 10.3

My numbers have improved since then even though they are still off.

Melinda Donahue  Hi Kimberly - I have so much trouble navigating this site on my phone - currently on my chrome book - I hope you are feeling better today.  I saw some of your postings last night and went to sleep - finally thinking of you and praying that today will be better.  Please let us know.

Kate Watson  Hi Kimberly, I looked back on my labs after surgery and they were very similar to yours. It took about 2 months for my numbers to (mostly) normalize. I know one of the important things they look at is that the Hgb is trending up, and not coming down. I'm sorry that it's bumpy right now. It's all exhausting and stressful but it sounds like your surgeon is keeping a close eye on everything.  Hang in there!

Doris Wunsch  Hope all is going well for you. It sounds like the blood work may take time to resolve. I’m new to the journal and may not be keeping up on your progress reports. 

I, too, will need tricuspid valve work done after testing is complete in December and would like to learn more about your situation when you are feeling up to it. You are the only one I’ve noticed  with tricuspid valve surgery. Is it possible to connect outside this webpage, I doubt others will be interested. 

Kimberly Eisenhut  Doris, I also have had trouble finding tricuspid patients. I have not had pacemaker leads, but my tricuspid went from mild to massive regurgitation in about 8 years of following it. I had the Medtronic contour ring to pull leaflets together and it is now trivial regurgitation. My surgery was at Northwestern Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute in Chicago. I'm sure Cleveland Clinic will be able to help you. Keep us posted and if you would like to contact me here, just go to my guestbook and leave me a message any time🫶

Rose Madura  Kimberly, I'm surprised they didn't give you one at the hospital.  They gave me one that I liked but I can't find anything online that looks like it.  Just make sure it is front closure, adjustable straps (and wide straps). Mine looked almost like a vest.  I wish I could find it. If I do, I'll post it.

Yumiko Ishida  I was given a neoprene vest specifically designed for women. It provided a lot of compression, I think to keep the sternum together, but it probably will help with swelling, too. Look for something with a lot of stretch.

David Buchanan  Im the same . Not sure we can do more than keep it elevated with a pillow .

It’s 12 days now for me and it is improving !

Janet Gaffney  You’re home - how WONDERFUL! Obviously, I’ve no experience YET with surgery but my sister in law just had double bypass and they gave her 4 bras at Mount Sinai and she sent this picture. Here is a link to their website: https://www.mastheadpink.com 

Kimberly Eisenhut  Janet, thank you, I'm just seeing this now. I'm going to find oneand see if it helps , thank you so much!

Deena Z  A  technically  competent ICU nurse is great and one that is additionally compassionate is extraordinary.  - can make or break your hardest moments.  (I had both.).  Did you get her to sign your heart pillow with a magic marker?!

Aaron Bader  You're looking great Kimberly! Wonderful to see!
And could not agree more about those amazing nurses - a special, special group of people.

Melinda Donahue  Hi !!! So happy to see you.  You will get better a little each day. The ccu nurses are the very best.  Sending ❤️ 

Fidel Martínez Ruiz  "Face is the mirror of the soul" is said and you look great, Kim,  I'm glad you are improving every day after surgery.

Rose Madura  Great picture. I had terrific nurses.  Some more outstanding than others but all great.  My fav was Andy who would make my pillow fort for me whenever I got out of bed.  Adam is right, slow and steady wins this race. 👍❤️‍🩹

Kimberly Eisenhut  Thank you everyone. Definitely good hours and not so good ones, but figuring out right med routine is tricky. I'll be going home later today. My amazing mother has been here with me the whole time! She's such a trooper! For everyone in waiting room like I was for 9 years, please know there is so much great care and outcomes now, you will get through it as I am👍💪

Rebecca Vaughan   Wonderful to hear you are getting better day by day. So nice to be on the recovery side. Congratulations! 

Grace Mason   You look great Kim. Welcome to the other side!!
You have a lot of wonderful people taking good care of you.

Pamela Gregory  Soooo happy to see you looking so well! I'm sure it has been tough but you look amazing. So proud of you

George Gardopee  You look amazing. You remind me of the disaster recovery service whose advertising slogan is “Like it never even happened”.

Pamela Gregory  You made it Kimberly! Definitely stay ahead of the pain. My husband and daughter would write the time down and start bugging them about 15-20 mins before time so that it didn't get too long. One time it was too long and the only time I remember being in distress. After that we were on it. You are doing great and soooooo happy to see you on the other side

susan harris  Such a long time coming-you did it!   Such awesome news to hear when i signed on this morning!  Keep up the good work!

John Cook  You’re looking great and if you remember the first two days, you’re off to a better start than I was.

Kate Watson  Yay there she is! Definitely true what others have said is to try to make sure to stay ahead of the pain and don’t hesitate to bug the nurses if your pain isn’t well controlled. They can always give you something else and adjust dosing as needed. Iv Fentanyl worked the best for me fyi. 

Robert Miller  My medical team said don't try to be a hero and suffer pain. They said we won't give you meds unless you need it but ask if you need them. Nobody will judge you. I actually didn't have to take them beyond the one day when they give it to you without asking. But really, take them if you think it makes it easier for you. My biggest pain was from a stiff back and neck after surgery. My mom gave me those cherry pillows they made like 50 years ago so you are warm when going to bed in winter. Those actually helped for stiff necks, backs, etc. 

Robert Miller  It looks like she was ready/relaxed for the surgery. The surgery is easy. Recovery is harder. Make sure you help her with everyday tasks for the first few weeks. 

Kimberly Eisenhut  Thank you Melinda! Yes Robert I will def help her with whatever she needs. She's my best friend! 💖 

Janet Gaffney  You’ll be on your way to a much healthier YOU. You’re being a great mom by taking care of yourself! ❤️

Robert Miller  I am confident you will be doing fine. Judging by your comment, I think the biggest thing the surgery will do is refocusing your life. Family is everything and even for people who do not have family, make every moment count. And after surgery, your heart will be a lot stronger to enjoy all those moments. 

Paras Arora  You’re in good hands. Sending you strength for tomorrow and hope for a brighter, healthier journey after.

Kimberly Eisenhut  Aaron, how did you feel about Northwestern when you stayed? Did Dr. Malaisrie check up on you afterwards? Any tips for after surgery?

Deena Z  Hi Kimberly, you have so many heart warriors thinking of you, rooting you on and saying prayers.  Almost there! Soon to be over and in recovery. ❤️‍🩹

Aaron Bader  You are in such great hands at Northwestern!  The best.  The best.  I was checked in and checked on every day - by Dr. Malaisrie himself, by his fellow surgeons, by his PAs - someone was letting me know how I was doing and motivating me every day.  The nurses throughout, but in the CTICU in particular, are incredible.  I'm glad I practiced remembering all their names so I could and can properly thank them.  Next level - that's the best way I can describe how good Northwestern has been to me.

I hope you have your walking socks ready to go too!  You'll be up and in motion very quickly, which feels wonderful. 

Sue Maize  Oh Kimberly, I have not been on  here in a very long time, so I’m so happy I didn’t miss the chance to post a message to you before your surgery! I pray all goes well tmrw and knowing a little about Dr. Malaisrie’s reputation, I’d say you re in excellent hands for this. I’m so glad you don’t have to wait any longer, you’ve really been patient in the “waiting room”. Rest and relax as much as you can, there’s nothing more for you to do except that and I look forward to getting an update when you’re up to it. Praying for you! 🙏🏻❤️

George Gardopee  Kimberly - good luck tomorrow. I’ll bet you find that after the years of anticipation and fear you have experienced, the relief you will feel when you wake up and you realize it is behind you will be astonishing.  I think for most of us the recovery, although frustrating at times, is not nearly as bad as we imagined. The very capable and professional staff at these excellent surgical centers are very, very good at keeping you comfortable. We are all looking forward to hearing from you soon. 

Susan Lynn  That's the smile and thumbs up we'll be waiting to see in your next post!  You'll be joining the recovery club, tomorrow!  All the best, Kimberly! 

Pamela Gregory  I always have my keychain too!!! Sending my best to you Soon you will be on the other side of this

Kate Watson  Thinking of you and wishing you all the best. We’re looking forward to hearing your updates on the other side!

Kimberly Eisenhut  I'll post when I can and appreciate all the wonderful support from each one of you. Richard, you're the best HVS stepdad I could ask for 🥰🫶

Kate Watson  It's true, you can't ever be really ready but you're doing everything you can! Sounds like a great way to spend the day. Please update or have family update us afterwards here when they can. You do have this! Stay strong. 

Susan Lynn  Kimberly - Sounds like you're doing all the right things.   Remember,  waiting is the hardest part.  It gets easier.  You can do it! 

Robert Miller  I like salmon, too. And the comment from @Richard Munson about swimming upstream seems so fitting. You will face an upstream battle, aka recovery. But it's a lot better once you are up there. And if you are anxious about the surgery, you will be in the best hands. There are doctors and nurses around you 24/7. If the slightest thing happens, they are footsteps from you. 

Pamela Gregory  Sending my very best wishes and prayers to you Kimberly!!! We will all be anxiously awaiting to hear from you

Kimberly Eisenhut  Thank you to every one of you!!! Sending love to you all❤️ I will be posting to keep myself busy, I'm sure. Maybe not in ICU, but asap. Pray for no complications or AFib, I know it's a lot to ask but if you don't ask, you don't get right? Richard, I'll be swimming as hard as I can the whole time🫶👍

Kimberly Eisenhut  Thank you Richard :) Yes, I guess you are her step husband also, not sure how Nancy will feel about that, LOL!

Kimberly Eisenhut  Oh boy, granddaughters fever is now 102.5! She's going to Dr tomorrow, hope it's not strep or covid! Talk about bad timing 🥺

Susan Lynn  Kimberly- Stay positive!   You'll become our newest rock star on the 26th!  Happy Birthday to your Mom!  You know you'll have the best post-op care! 

Richard Munson  Nancy will never know. Our secret. And 1000 other people on this site. The real wife is the last to know. Nancy turning 81 on sept. 8th would mean my new step wife is the younger woman. 

Kimberly Eisenhut  Haha! Love my HVS stepdad I am still looking for a witty joke for when they wheel me in to surgery to make my mom smile. I was always the goofy, silly one in the family. Liked to shock my sister and mom with silly things and acting like a goof. I think thats why I always get along with little kids so well, lol

Kimberly Eisenhut  I am going to make my sister take some video and picts of me before and after surgery to see if I say or do anything goofy too. I have seen some pretty funny stuff when people are on pain meds and just cracks me up because it is completely uncensored.

Kate Watson  Sorry your granddaughter is sick. Hope she gets better quickly and that you stay well! 🤞🙏 PS I don’t know if you saw I wrote back to you (an extremely long answer) on that question you had for me. It probably broke the site cause it was so long. 😃 Hope you are keeping your spirits up as you get closer.  

Robert Miller  You seem to have the right attitude. I tried to 'fight' the meds. I didn't succeed, luckily. As far as I know, I didn't say or do anything funny. As for your gran daughter, I hope she will get better soon but also make sure you don't catch her cough. After open heart surgery, your biggest 'enemy' is coughs and sneezes. Make sure they give you a heart hugger. 

Kimberly Eisenhut  I can only see 2 when scrolling down on right side, then it kind of jumps to the "See Hospital Map" I know there are more than 2 upcoming surgeries up aren't there?

John Cook  Good luck!

I had a similar problem. I caught strep throat three weeks before my original surgery date.  The antibiotics were able to kill it in time for that date but I ended up getting rescheduled two weeks later for someone else’s emergency procedure.

Valerie Allen  I had an infected tooth when I went in to have my dental clearance! It seems these things happen with some regularity to people! My tooth was pulled and went in antibiotics and was well by surgery. Best wishes to you, Kim! 💕

Fidel Martínez Ruiz  Fortunately antibiotics can solve infections but I have not clear how many days of antibiotics are necessary taken every 8 hours in case of a dental procedure, teeth cleaning or an extraction for instance. I think that every dentist have a different way to make It. By the other hand an excess of antibiotics can develop a bacteria resistance along the time. Can someone have an oppinion on this subject?

Rose Madura  Kimberly, you are in good hands at Northwestern.  My advice would be to prepare and freeze meals for easy reheating when you come home. I'm assuming you'll have some help but a shower chair may be a good investment as well.  Dry shampoo can be a good friend.  Button up shirts and a lot of times I wore a huge t-shirt. Ask the hospital for a surgical bra. Your insurance will cover it.  And I was given a heart hugger rather than a pillow and it was great.  Also, my surgery was at the end of May so I made sure all bills for June were paid so I didn't have to worry about it.  Praying for peace for you...👍🙏💕

Kimberly Eisenhut  Rose, thank you so much for the tips and prayers. My mother will be with me after I get home and even though she turns 80 on Sept 21st, she is pretty active and know I will have help. my youngest son will also probably stay home for the first week or two I am back and he is wonderful at helping out. All bills have already been paid or scheduled to be paid, good tip!
I am a planner, so am very happy the nurse sent me my full schedule and instructions already today. I guess one of the main reasons they want me in two days prior to surgery is to make sure I get as much fluid off as possible before and to do some more pre testing. I think they are taking extra precautions to have the best outcome. I am very blessed Now I can start getting things ready.
I am visiting with my daughter for a couple weeks in Wisconsin and will get to take my granddaughter to her first day of high school next week, go to a movie this weekend, go take some walks by the river and go to the botanic garden here.
I am wondering if I need to bring any clothing to the hospital, such as robe, pjs, socks, slippers, etc. I have never had surgery before, although I have helped my mother a few times with her several surgeries in the past so have a bit of an idea. She never had anything like this though. I am going to go out and find some more button up shirts and pjs. I will also pick up a small shower stool. I did just get nice power rocker/recliner that swivels. It was my treat to myself and know it will be helpful. The rocker/recliner I have now is manual and I know that would be difficult.

Rose Madura  Sounds like you have everything under control. The only clothing I brought was something loose fitting to wear home - definitely button up blouse. I went bra-less for several weeks unless someone was visiting or I went out. Then I wore my surgical bra.  

Deena Z  Ask your cardiologist and/or surgeon about increasing your protein intake now to help with recovery. 
Godspeed!

Susan Lynn  Best of luck,  Kimberly.   It's a quick, painless test, but that contrast dye creates a very weird feeling.  Hoping for a clear path for you! 

Suzette Schear  Kimberly, Hope you get to talk to surgeon.  End of September-Okay progress.  I’m going to keep the prayers going so you get some solace. 

Kimberly Eisenhut  Date is set to Sept 26th. Melinda, the Ct is ok, the contrast just males you feel warm for a minute, its going to be fine :) Dont worry

Richard Munson  Your hvs step dad says go with the more experienced surgeon. Monday is better unless said surgeon got drunk sunday at a family bash. 

Rose Madura  Hi Kimberly, there is no right or wrong decision. Whatever you decide will be the right decision for you.  I wouldn't worry about the day of the week for surgery. Cardiac units will always have enough staff to care for you. I will say a prayer that you will arrive at the best decision and not fret too much over it.  🙏❤️‍🩹

Kimberly Eisenhut  Thank you all for the advice.
Richard, I do think I'll be going with Dr Malaisrie, just have to wait longer, which they think is ok for me unless symptoms get worse quickly, which they do not foresee. I'll ask his nurse tomorrow if he's planning a family party Sunday before I confirm my Monday, October 27th date. 👍

Kate Watson  Ultimately I felt I had to go based on my intuition in addition to the expertise of the surgeon. I had a complex surgery so I needed someone who had the confidence and experience to do it, but I also wanted to go to someone who cared about me as a person. I don't regret my choice. It's such a personal decision for each person I think.  How soon do they feel you need your surgery as in how urgent is it? 

Richard Munson  Whoever and whenever you choose, your hvs step dad will be cheering you on. Its been a long road for you. 

Susan Lynn  Kimberly - I had a mini-thoracotomy on a Friday and was just fine.   I would choose the surgeon with the most experience if  i were you.   Waiting is difficult, but some surgeons are worth the wait. Good luck with your decision.