Kim's Posts

Thanks for the good wishes. Finally home from hospital today. Had some complications as heart was weak, but working through them. Was in ICU for 10 days and step down for 5. Got home 5 hours ago and have already had 2 naps that were the best sleep in the last 3 weeks. Sorry for the delayed post, just could not focus until a couple days ago. Thanks again everyone!! Life is good!!

Kim, I wish you a smooth procedure and speedy recovery! To be honest, walking afterward will seem very hard at first but try and push yourself to stay with it as soon as they have you up and about! I had some fear around it because I had breathing struggles when I stood up and began walking the first few days. I soon learned (from some very determined, caring nurses) that you have to walk and practice deep breathing as much as you can as soon as you can. As I enter week 5 post-op, I can now easily climb my stairs several times a day without even thinking about it! And I've so enjoyed long walks along the boardwalk with my husband each day. You will be able to do that too! Good luck and God speed!

NM - you might want to call your surgeon's office in advance of your appointment to see if they'll book a tentative date on the surgical schedule. My surgeon's office did that for me, so I only had to wait two weeks after my consultation to get it done. The waiting can be torturous, so if you're set on having surgery, do what you can to shorten that window. Best of luck!

Susan I may do that. My heart is pretty bad right now, may even go into ER and never thought of calling ahead as an option. I feel so in the dark and like I am a year late to cover everything. My heart is already .4cm, so not sure I even have any time. I will check Monday. Thanks

Kim, don't worry. I'm sure they'll work to prioritize your pre-operative testing and scheduling, if necessary. These specialists and their teams operate like finely oiled machines and can orchestrate surgery at a moment's notice. You may want to call the doctor's office to see if they have any cancellations or can squeeze you in sooner. Be sure you're specific about your symptoms and urgency. We're here if you need support now, during, and after your surgery! You'll be just fine!