Hi guys, today is my first valversary! 😁 I can confidently say those sacred words "I feel better than before the surgery". My recovery was a bit longer and ...Read more
Hi guys, today is my first valversary! 😁 I can confidently say those sacred words "I feel better than before the surgery". My recovery was a bit longer and stalled by three little kiddies. I didn't have many symptoms to begin with but I am cycling now, 3 times per week for an hour and it feels just right. I am trying to take it easy, breathe, reduce unnecessary stress and put sleep first. Sleep disturbance is my biggest symptom trigger. I am always anxious about my next echo, but I guess that's something we heart warriors must learn to live with. Huge thanks to Adam and this wonderful and funny community for being there for me. Can't imagine going through all of that without your help and support.
Susan Lynn Happy First Anniversary, Klara! It's definitely a major milestone. You've been a wonderful contr... Read more
Susan Lynn Happy First Anniversary, Klara! It's definitely a major milestone. You've been a wonderful contributor to this site and a great inspiration to so many heart warriors! Wishing you continued good health and many decades of future celebrations!
Kath Duggan Happy Anniversary…you have 3 beautiful reasons to live your healthiest life for❤️❤️❤️
Jill Porter I am so happy for you! I’m still limping along here at 4 weeks. Still with AFib. Trying everything ... Read more
Jill Porter I am so happy for you! I’m still limping along here at 4 weeks. Still with AFib. Trying everything the doctors tell me. So hoping to feel better.
Grace Mason Happy Anniversary Klara! 🎉 love your pics💞 OMG a pile of 3 on your chest too!😃
Andrew Dial Klara!!!! U r doing so well! Congrats!
Rose Madura Klara, congratulations and Happy Anniversary! You look wonderful and happy. And so that makes me ha ... Read more
Rose Madura Klara, congratulations and Happy Anniversary! You look wonderful and happy. And so that makes me happy. Your children are adorable!
Pamela Gregory Happy, Happy First Anniversary Klara!!! I am so happy for you and your children are precious! You we... Read more
Pamela Gregory Happy, Happy First Anniversary Klara!!! I am so happy for you and your children are precious! You were such a source of strength, inspiration, and comfort to me before and after my surgery. I truly am thankful to you and truly thrilled for you
Laurent G Klara, I igned up on this site not so long ago, and will fill my profile soon... and you already hel... Read more
Laurent G Klara, I igned up on this site not so long ago, and will fill my profile soon... and you already helped me much. Thank you and the other members, and happy anniversary
Shelly Hubbard Congrats beautiful children. Such true blessings!!!
Dear friends, just had another echo 7 months post-op. My heart chambers are back to normal size, which made my eyes teary. I have residual mitral... Read more
Dear friends, just had another echo 7 months post-op. My heart chambers are back to normal size, which made my eyes teary. I have residual mitral regurgitation gr. 1-2+ (hence the murmur) and that is it. EF is back to 61%, was 55 after surgery and 60 before the surgery I think. Doc says my repair can last up to 20 years, but since I am so young, another surgery surely is in my future. I am so so happy and thankful. This was some journey and it made my life better. I am here for the support for our new members! Good luck everyone and keep on tickin'!
Patty Parrish Klara, this is the most wonderful news!! You are so deserving of the elimination of that last gray c ... Read more
Patty Parrish Klara, this is the most wonderful news!! You are so deserving of the elimination of that last gray cloud! Smooth sailing ahead! Fully enjoy your family and the great outdoors!!!
Valerie Allen Congratulations dear Klara! What a wonderful note, I am so happy for you!
Sue Lee Outstanding news! Big hugs to you and your little ones
Deena Z Soooooo happy for you, our Klara. You hung-in-there with your optimism and giving nature to the hea... Read more
Deena Z Soooooo happy for you, our Klara. You hung-in-there with your optimism and giving nature to the heart warriors (and of course your family) You are an incredible warrior. Hear you roar and soar! Don't mess with Klara .
Andrew Dial Klara that is just amazing. Super happy for you, and excited for your future :)
Pamela Gregory What wonderful news Klara!!! So happy for you! Enjoy your beautiful family and every day I love hea... Read more
Pamela Gregory What wonderful news Klara!!! So happy for you! Enjoy your beautiful family and every day I love hearing this
George Gardopee That is an outstanding update Klara! I’m thrilled that you feel better than before your surgery.
Klara Čičić Thank you all for kind words and for sharing my hapiness.
Andy Teel Klara! Wonderful news... I am so happy for you! I can't wait to get out and start running again I ... Read more
Andy Teel Klara! Wonderful news... I am so happy for you! I can't wait to get out and start running again I am 15 days post AVR. I'll start Cardio Rehab soon.
Timothy Andre What amazing news Klara. This makes me so happy for you. You have shown such strength with a positiv... Read more
Timothy Andre What amazing news Klara. This makes me so happy for you. You have shown such strength with a positive attitude towards every step of your heart journey. I'm smiling very big for you Keep on tickin’
Hello my dear friends, heart warriors. I just had my 6 months echo to address the slight worsening of remaining post-surgery mitral regurgitation. The professor ...Read more
Hello my dear friends, heart warriors. I just had my 6 months echo to address the slight worsening of remaining post-surgery mitral regurgitation. The professor wasn't stressed about it, she said they see this situation from time to time and that I should just have a yearly echo. This situation could stay the same, but it could also progress. Noone knows the future. It was hard to get the leaflets in line during the surgery so she wasn't surprised by the remaining regurgitation. Little murmur heard, but she wasn't stressed. The reality is here, I accepted it. I will ask another opinion in April (third one, haha), but I am almost sure they will say the same. This surgery gave me so much, another perspective in life, gift of gratitude for every moment, it made me stronger mentally and now more and more - physically, it gave me friends here on this site which is invaluable. I choose acceptance and gratitude and will try my best to relax and enjoy life. I work, my kiddies and growing, I have so much plans and don't look much further in future, I am afraid what's behind that curtain so I am living in the moment haha. Keep on ticking.
Andrew Dial Klara, amazing update. And I am so on the same page with your new outlook on life. Acceptance, gratit ... Read more
Andrew Dial Klara, amazing update. And I am so on the same page with your new outlook on life. Acceptance, gratitude, and enjoy life. Congrats :)
Rita Savelis It is easy to say don't be anxious, don't think about it. I hope you will get to that place, but you ... Read more
Rita Savelis It is easy to say don't be anxious, don't think about it. I hope you will get to that place, but you may not be there yet. That's okay. Accept that there is much that is out of your control. Breathe in. Enjoy the small things. Breathe out. Take care.
jonette kruk Good Morning Klara! Thank you for the update! Your attitude towards life is so encouraging. Your posi ... Read more
jonette kruk Good Morning Klara! Thank you for the update! Your attitude towards life is so encouraging. Your positivity is very uplifting. I love reading your posts!
Klara Čičić Thank you guys. Rita, love your messages! It means a lot. I am trying hard to fight off the anxious ... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you guys. Rita, love your messages! It means a lot. I am trying hard to fight off the anxious thoughts and now is period in life where it seems that I am winning so I appreciate it
Richard Munson Assume you feel good, so that is a good thing. Cute little rug rats as we used to call them. No idea ... Read more
Richard Munson Assume you feel good, so that is a good thing. Cute little rug rats as we used to call them. No idea why.
Kimberly Eisenhut Those are 3 beautiful reasons to stay strong and love every minute! Thank you for your outlook and y... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Those are 3 beautiful reasons to stay strong and love every minute! Thank you for your outlook and your postings. You are a true warrior! Lots of hugs and blessings to you and your beautiful family
Susan Lynn Klara - Glad this echo is behind you. None of us wants to get the news that we still have regurgit... Read more
Susan Lynn Klara - Glad this echo is behind you. None of us wants to get the news that we still have regurgitation after surgery, but you have certainly taken the optimistic approach. We can't predict the future for our hearts even under the most ideal circumstances, so choosing to live your life with your beautiful family is the best thing you can do. Wishing you good health and many, many decades of great adventures!
Grace Mason Beautiful family. They make everyday worth relishing.
Timothy Andre Klara, Thanks for the update. I've been wondering how you are doing and curious about your echo resu... Read more
Timothy Andre Klara, Thanks for the update. I've been wondering how you are doing and curious about your echo results. The professors opinion should provide a little comfort about the remaining regurgitation. Choosing to live in the moment and not worry about the past or the future is liberating. I admire your positive attitude and outlook on life. Your children are adorable and are lucky to have you as their mother. Stay strong and keep on ticking. God bless you
Jeanette Davidson Stay strong , Faith Based and tell yourself every day you are going to be OK!🙏🏻❤️🌈🌸
Ana Brusso Oh my dear Klara, such inspiring post and so positive. Yes go ahead and live life with your children ... Read more
Ana Brusso Oh my dear Klara, such inspiring post and so positive. Yes go ahead and live life with your children and your husband and your family. God bless you and I will keep you in my prayers. Much love and prayers 🙏❤️🥰😍
Rhodie Jacobson Thank you for the post. You have such great kids. It is great to read that you are winning. I know th ... Read more
Rhodie Jacobson Thank you for the post. You have such great kids. It is great to read that you are winning. I know that there's a lot to think about and I see that you are very tough! God Bless YOU!
Pamela Gregory Glad to hear they don’t seem too worried! You are doing great Klara💗. Your kids are so cute too ... Read more
Pamela Gregory Glad to hear they don’t seem too worried! You are doing great Klara💗. Your kids are so cute too🥰
Patsy Stewart Klara, I'm happy you've decided to accept this and to just live your life to its fullest each day. Un ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Klara, I'm happy you've decided to accept this and to just live your life to its fullest each day. Unless they have been there themselves, they have no clue the thoughts that goes through our minds and grips our soul and won't let loose. Sending lots of prayers in your name. Keep that beautiful smile on your face and hope in your heart. Your little ones are absolutely adorable! What a joy to have them in your life!~❤️
Patty Parrish Hi Klara, I have been thinking about you and am happy for your good news. Interestingly, I have a som ... Read more
Patty Parrish Hi Klara, I have been thinking about you and am happy for your good news. Interestingly, I have a somewhat similar situation. Following late January aortic valve replacement surgery, I still had a heart murmur so my doctor agreed to an Echo at my request. It showed the valve is working fine so they called it "perfect" and said I just need to get an annual Echo. In studying the Echo I saw it indicated I have mild tricuspid regurgitation, which is a new observation. Now I'm going to put all this out of my mind and enjoy the next year and deal with future Echos as they come. I look forward to hearing about your 3rd opinion and wish you and your family a pleasant spring and summer!
Rose Madura Klara, I can't believe I missed this post! Your children are so adorable and I understand the concer ... Read more
Rose Madura Klara, I can't believe I missed this post! Your children are so adorable and I understand the concern about the regurgitation but trust the doctors know how best to interpret the results. Take care of yourself.
Hi, guys, I have my echo on March the 29th to address the remaining mitral regurgitation after surgery. I am 5 months post mitral valve repair and I started ...Read more
Hi, guys, I have my echo on March the 29th to address the remaining mitral regurgitation after surgery. I am 5 months post mitral valve repair and I started working again, I finally feel like myself again. Today I baked my first sourdough bread with my own from scratch sourdough starter haha. Life is good. I will let you know the results of echo. I don't have any new or concerning symptoms, I workout lightly 3 times a week. I am wishing all of you peace and love. Keep on ticking!
George Gardopee Klara -I’m thrilled that you feel like you are recovered. You had a lot more to deal with than most ... Read more
George Gardopee Klara -I’m thrilled that you feel like you are recovered. You had a lot more to deal with than most if us could dream of. It’s great that you are back to work. We will all be hoping for the best with your upcoming echo.
Grace Mason That is great to hear you are beginning to feel like yourself again. Hope you get good news from you... Read more
Grace Mason That is great to hear you are beginning to feel like yourself again. Hope you get good news from your echo. Bread sounds delicious, now I'm hungry. It's going to be Friday night pizza for us
Timothy Andre Klara, I'm happy you are back to work, working out and baking. It's such a good feeling to have when... Read more
Timothy Andre Klara, I'm happy you are back to work, working out and baking. It's such a good feeling to have when we finally get back to doing normal things again. I am praying for you and your upcoming echo
Greg Lewis Good news, Klara! 5 mos.. Your doing great!!
Susan Lynn Glad you have a date, Klara. We'll be sending positive vibes your way on the 29th.
Rose Madura Best wishes on your upcoming echo. I pray all is well. Glad you feel well enough to go back to work. ... Read more
Rose Madura Best wishes on your upcoming echo. I pray all is well. Glad you feel well enough to go back to work. God bless you as you continue on your journey.
Andrew Dial Klara.. I could go for some of that tasty sourdough ! Glad things are going well for you :) :)
Ana Brusso Congratulations Klara. You are doing great! God bless you 🙏❤️
Klara Čičić You are all so very kind, thank you so much for your kind words, they mean a lot.
Deena Z Klara, wow, kneading bread takes some energy; and making the sourdough starter from scratch is ambit... Read more
Deena Z Klara, wow, kneading bread takes some energy; and making the sourdough starter from scratch is ambitious. You don't watch life go bye! Cool. Really happy you are normalizing. It does take longer than one would think. It actually took me a year. Will say prayers for you re: your upcoming echo.
Kath Duggan Oh sourdough is my favorite! I tried to make starter but it never got going well. I will keep you in ... Read more
Kath Duggan Oh sourdough is my favorite! I tried to make starter but it never got going well. I will keep you in my prayers for a great echo!
STEPHEN MORRIS Keep up the excerise and enjoy what life has to bring.
Samantha McClain I also make homemade sourdough bread & have kept a starter for almost 5years.
Anyway I hope you get good news back from your ECHO.
Hi, my friends. Today I finished my 3 months cardiac rehabilitation after mitral valve repair. I am very grateful for having this opportunity and would... Read more
Hi, my friends. Today I finished my 3 months cardiac rehabilitation after mitral valve repair. I am very grateful for having this opportunity and would encourage everyone to go to cardiac rehab if possible. It has been very helpful for my mental as well as physical health. The approach at the clinic is for every patient to receive psychologist support and that was the key of my healing. I got what I needed, tools to relax, accept my heart issue and commit to better sleeping habits. My physical strength also got better and now I have good basis for continuing work out. I have a regurgitation left of some degree after my repair which needs regular monitoring. My next echo (the second opinion) is some time in March to see whether the regurgitation is progressing but I am not stressing out too much. I can cry and be sad about it not being perfectly sealed but there are much more worse things in life! I try hard not to obsess over it and just live my life grateful for each day. Needing another surgery in the future makes life kind of richer in a way only a heart warrior will understand. Thinking of all of you waiting for your surgery and wishing you well
Pamela Gregory Congratulations on your graduation from rehab! You sound like you are doing really well 💗
Ana Brusso Way to go Klara. Congratulations on finishing cardiac rehab and how helpful it was for you. Glad you ... Read more
Ana Brusso Way to go Klara. Congratulations on finishing cardiac rehab and how helpful it was for you. Glad you are not stressing over next echo just grateful to be alive enjoying your beautiful family and life itself. I keep you in my prayers always. God bless you 🙏❤️
Rose Madura Thank you for the update Klara. Your attitude is wonderful. Stay well!
Donna Casaletto Congratulations!!! I hear cardiac rehab is so beneficial during recovery! I tried to sign up for it b ... Read more
Donna Casaletto Congratulations!!! I hear cardiac rehab is so beneficial during recovery! I tried to sign up for it but I was politely declined as one of the requirements is that you need to have your surgery first 😂🙈‼️Wishing you peaceful and relaxing sleep vibes 😘😴‼️
jonette kruk Such great news to hear Klara! Congrats!!! I will definitely go this route. OHS is no joke and suppor ... Read more
jonette kruk Such great news to hear Klara! Congrats!!! I will definitely go this route. OHS is no joke and support is the key.
Grace Mason Congrats Klara. Sounds like great advice I plan to follow. Hope your regurge can resolve with more ti ... Read more
Grace Mason Congrats Klara. Sounds like great advice I plan to follow. Hope your regurge can resolve with more time.
Rita Savelis Cardiac rehab is psychological rehab, which is why I encourage people to go. And to continue the psyc ... Read more
Rita Savelis Cardiac rehab is psychological rehab, which is why I encourage people to go. And to continue the psychological rehab afterwards. Alas, once a cardiac patient, always a cardiac patient. Cry and be sad and be angry. It's so necessary. Life is hard, but there is joy in small things, like a good cup of coffee. Take care.
Andrew Dial Klara you are a warrior! So proud of you for competing rehab, and continuing to tackle life and every ... Read more
Andrew Dial Klara you are a warrior! So proud of you for competing rehab, and continuing to tackle life and everything thrown at you. You are so strong, and can do anything you want to do. Well done
Angela Meletiadis Klara, congratulations!!! Keep strong, keep a positive attitude and enjoy your family! You are in my ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis Klara, congratulations!!! Keep strong, keep a positive attitude and enjoy your family! You are in my prayers!!!
Timothy Andre Congrats Klara! You did it. Another big milestone for you. Keep that amazing positive attitude. You ... Read more
Timothy Andre Congrats Klara! You did it. Another big milestone for you. Keep that amazing positive attitude. You are an inspiration to many. God bless you
Patty Parrish That's the spirit!!! Go Klara!! You are a role model for us all!
Almost 4 months after mitral valve repair for Barlow's disease with three demanding and active (but very cute) little children. My murmur (which was absent ...Read more
Almost 4 months after mitral valve repair for Barlow's disease with three demanding and active (but very cute) little children. My murmur (which was absent after the surgery) got back. Echo shows regurgitation Stage II. I was quite sad when I heard it. I am waiting for another echo soon from another expert. Cardiologist at the rehab centre was very supportive and said I must focus on relieving the stress, forget about regurgitation, don't overthink, get help at home, get annual echo and live happily, just not overdoing myself. I have been through really challenging month with very little sleep, lots of physical strain, lifting my quite heavy children and putting myself on the edge sometimes. Now I have turned new page regarding my children's bad sleeping habits with huge help from dearest Angela M. from this website! She helped me from another spot on the globe which is extraordinary! This website connected us and she helped us tremendously with her advices and support. It was very exhausting period and now thanks to the huge effort everything is better, except my heart. I am trying hard to think positive and be grateful that I am alive and well. And most of possible outcomes have some solution, que sera sera! P.s. To all of you waiting for surgery, I recommend reading this site day and night :) it is invaluable.
Deena Z Klara, wish i could give you a strong hug right now. Upsetting news. Wait for another echo by a diff... Read more
Deena Z Klara, wish i could give you a strong hug right now. Upsetting news. Wait for another echo by a different technician, because we all know that interpretations of echos vary widely. See if you can get the head of the echo lab at a hospital to take the lead on this for you. Tell the doctor your situation. I would probably also call your surgeon in Germany, but that’s just me. Will say a prayer for you right now. Hang in there.
Klara Čičić Yeah Deena, thank you so much. Waiting for expert's opinion (Professor of cardiology at University ho ... Read more
Klara Čičić Yeah Deena, thank you so much. Waiting for expert's opinion (Professor of cardiology at University hospital), she will do my echo next. (In Croatia only doctors do the echocardiogram, not technicians, although it will be like that in the future here I'm sure). I will call the surgeon after her opinion. It is stressful to hear it but I must live with this fact now and act calmly and rationally. Which is hard haha. I could cry my eyes out bit it won't do me any good. Plus this cardiologist at Rehab centar convinces me that "everything is fine! Your heart is fine! No drama! Yeah regurgitation is here, so what!? Focus on relieving the tension in your life! You have small children to take care! Find help! Yeah you payed loads of money for the surgery, but it's better to lose that much money on surgery than on the tomb!! You are alive and everything will be fine" (tomb places are very expensive here, and you all know I love dark humor)
It is reassuring and I repeat his words in my head...
Ana Brusso Oh dear Klara, you have the right attitude. Wait for another echo and see what it says. You are a str ... Read more
Ana Brusso Oh dear Klara, you have the right attitude. Wait for another echo and see what it says. You are a strong young woman and a survivor. You have a lot of us here praying for you and your family. Stay strong and yes you are alive and glad that Angela have been so helpful to you. I also love my hvs godchild who is such a comfort on this site. God bless you Klara and give you peace of mind. ❤️ 🙏
Pamela Gregory Oh Klara. I think from what you wrote that maybe you are overdoing it a lot! I think too much physic... Read more
Pamela Gregory Oh Klara. I think from what you wrote that maybe you are overdoing it a lot! I think too much physical strain could be the culprit. I'm sure it it really hard not to over lift with your kids but your body is telling you to cool it. I will also say a prayer for you right now that this will slow way down and that you will be able to relieve some of your stress too
Amy Berger Sending caring thoughts and prayers your way. Totally agree with your advice about utilizing this web ... Read more
Amy Berger Sending caring thoughts and prayers your way. Totally agree with your advice about utilizing this website day and night pre surgery- I’m 10 days away from Avr and so appreciate all of you :)
Andrew Dial Klara, thank you for the update. Keep your chin up, keep focusing on the goal, and really try and rel ... Read more
Andrew Dial Klara, thank you for the update. Keep your chin up, keep focusing on the goal, and really try and relax when you can. You have an amazing heart, and I am sure that everything is going to work out for you. You are a great wife and mother, and you work SO hard for your family. Keep on keepin on. You are in my thoughts.
Timothy Andre Klara, I'm saddened to hear this news but will remain optimistic just as you are doing. I agree wit... Read more
Timothy Andre Klara, I'm saddened to hear this news but will remain optimistic just as you are doing. I agree with what some of the others have said about second opinions with your echo. Try to stay calm and please don't over do it at home. 4 months really isn't that far out from such a major surgery. Your heart/body still needs time to heal. I will keep you in my prayers and wish the best for you. You are an inspiration with your continued positive attitude towards whatever life throws your way. So much respect
Rhodie Jacobson I sure will pray for you, Klara. I sure don't have the answers but you do have so many people pulling ... Read more
Rhodie Jacobson I sure will pray for you, Klara. I sure don't have the answers but you do have so many people pulling for you and praying for you! God Bless YOU!
Angela Meletiadis Klara, try to keep yourself calm and wait until you get that second opinion. You are in my prayers, a ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis Klara, try to keep yourself calm and wait until you get that second opinion. You are in my prayers, as from the beginning. God be with you...
Richard Munson Klara, my thoughts are with you. Hope the second opinion does the trick for you.
Danielle Elizabeth You’ve been a champ and inspiring with all you’ve been through. Not to mention always finding the ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth You’ve been a champ and inspiring with all you’ve been through. Not to mention always finding the silver lining in each situation. I hope your heart stays strong and that your mitral valve behaves! I agree with others about having a second opinion.
Robert Stebbins Klara- I know it is easier said than done when you have little ones, but do try to take it easier. Gi ... Read more
Robert Stebbins Klara- I know it is easier said than done when you have little ones, but do try to take it easier. Give your body and mind as much down time as possible to heal. Lean on others as often as you can. In my experience, most people find joy in directly helping others. Good luck - we are all pulling for you!
Rose Madura Oh Klara, so sorry to hear about this setback. I had regurgitation for most of my life prior to sur... Read more
Rose Madura Oh Klara, so sorry to hear about this setback. I had regurgitation for most of my life prior to surgery so try not to worry as others have already said. For me, I had many postoperative setbacks and after each one, I felt more confident. The doctors knew what to do and got to the root cause each time. I know it is frustrating to take one step forward and then two steps back but you are a fighter and your family needs their beautiful wife and mother. God bless you. Please keep us posted and I will pray for a positive outcome for you.
Cheryl Mann Klara- you are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry to hear about your setback. I hope better ... Read more
Cheryl Mann Klara- you are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry to hear about your setback. I hope better news is on the horizon soon.
Klara Čičić Thank you everyone! I also hope my valve will behave at the next echo (that's a good one :) Your word ... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you everyone! I also hope my valve will behave at the next echo (that's a good one :) Your words are very reassuring and I keep reading it over and over. Hearing the murmur was such a bummer and feeling my regurgitation with every heartbeat like this stream/vibration over my chest again (I felt it always before the surgery, only slightly more) is a constant reminder of possible failure. But I must not think that way. Or paying that much attention on my heartbeat! I was always prone to dramatizing :) Thank you again so much! I will keep you posted and wish each and every one of you health and peace and strength!
Patty Parrish Klara, I can't imagine all you've been through and yet you are still taking care of your family and c ... Read more
Patty Parrish Klara, I can't imagine all you've been through and yet you are still taking care of your family and children, representing yourself in your health journey and entertaining all of us. I was pleased to see that Angela has been a help to you. I hope it is the stress reduction techniques as well as navigating your medical system. Blessings to you and your family.
I never told you a story from my surgery. As you may know, I found a surgeon, travelled 600 miles by car to Germany, payed surgery out of my "pocket", left ...Read more
I never told you a story from my surgery. As you may know, I found a surgeon, travelled 600 miles by car to Germany, payed surgery out of my "pocket", left my husband and kids behind, ready to get my heart fixed. My first surgery date was postponed because we contracted Covid few days before my supposed departure. It was a bummer but I accepted it. Surgery was postponed by little less than 4 weeks from the original date. How quick after Covid, I thought. When time finally came, my home test was negative...but possible positive Covid test once I arrive to the hospital was always on my mind and frankly I was more afraid of that then the surgery itself. It is crazy but that is the way it was. I just wanted to get it done. When I got there my rapid antigen test was three times negative and my PCR was also negative. What a relief! Due to me misunderstanding this anaestesiologist who went through the papers with me (remember I am communicating in German which is good but obviously not so good...), afterwards I told nurses on the ward that I was told by anest. to do another PCR 24h before surgery! That's what I thought she said. It was Sunday. It was a big misunderstanding...but in the end the test was done, probably only because of my demand. Test result will come early in the morning on the D day. They are preparing me for the surgery anyway...noone worrying over that test. Two days ago it was negative.
I woke up very early, slept for a few hours...you all know how it goes. Excitement and peace mixed. I video called my husband one "last time", laughing about my blow dried hair and a little bit of make up and how I wanted to "die pretty" haha. I was really at peace. They wheeled me in the pre-OR room, covered me with those warm blankets, I was soooo ready, just like Andy described. Until. Nurse came to me, leaned over my bed and said with the saddest voice ever: "Klara, unfortunately you are going back to the ward, your Covid test is positive." The feeling could only be described as a shock, my world was crushed, my mind was blank. What now? I go back to Croatia? Or I stay here until when? Test could be positive for weeks... I was so disappointed, sad, numb... I was speechless. In German and in Croatian haha. Then the cheif anaestesiologist came. My hero. It is with such confidence and superiority that he handled this situation. My viral load on the PCR was so small, I recently had COVID, had all the shots...he contacted infections disease doctor and together they agreed we should proceed with the surgery. All of that happend so quickly. They started putting iv., continued preparing me like nothing happened, and soon it was time for the mask with oxygen and for me to breathe in the mask... But I was in such a state of shock that I said "wait wait - I just need a minute to process all of this, what just happend" and I started crying... Anesthesiologist said: Okay okay, relax, think of the one place you would most rather be at right now? Probably thinking I would say Bahamas or something like that... And I said : "Germany, Leipzig Herzzentrum, OR." All of the staff started laughing, including me, laughing through the tears, I fell asleep... Next moment I open my eyes and hear those amazing words "it was a successful repair..."
Andrew Dial That is an amazing story Klara! Thanks for sharing. I am so glad everything worked out for you and th ... Read more
Andrew Dial That is an amazing story Klara! Thanks for sharing. I am so glad everything worked out for you and that you are doing so well :) life is so short and I think we all share that sensitivity in our heads and hearts, knowing that we need to cherish every moment.
Funnny you mention falling asleep and waking up…so they installed my IV on my arm, in the pre-surgery room for whatever, (didn’t hook anything up to it), and that’s the last thing I remember. I woke up with them telling me to try to breathe on my own, cuz they wanted to take the breathing tubes out.
Greg Lewis Love the story, Klara!! Loved it!! That anesthesiologist was really on the ball!!
Pamela Gregory Thanks for sharing Klara! What a rollercoaster of emotions as if you wouldn't have enough without the ... Read more
Pamela Gregory Thanks for sharing Klara! What a rollercoaster of emotions as if you wouldn't have enough without the covid.
Leona Resch Wow Klara! That is some story!! What a rollercoaster of emotions!! You are an inspiration! Thank you ... Read more
Leona Resch Wow Klara! That is some story!! What a rollercoaster of emotions!! You are an inspiration! Thank you for sharing!❤️
Patsy Stewart What an emotional roller coaster ride, but look at you now!! So, so glad you heard those amazing word ... Read more
Patsy Stewart What an emotional roller coaster ride, but look at you now!! So, so glad you heard those amazing words!! "It was a successful repair...." Always hold the feeling at that very moment when you heard those words close to your heart. When you get down in spirit, let those words take you back to that moment. A second chance at life is a great gift. You conquered one of the hardest situations set before you! Keep pressing forward on your journey. Thank you for sharing your story. Sending the biggest hug and lots of love your way~xo~😘❤️
Marie Myers That is a great story! Anesthesia saves the day… Your story should give strength to others, and sh ... Read more
Marie Myers That is a great story! Anesthesia saves the day… Your story should give strength to others, and show them that difficult things can be accomplished!
Robert Miller Thanks for sharing this story. I am glad it worked out. I am surprised they let you put makeup on. I ... Read more
Robert Miller Thanks for sharing this story. I am glad it worked out. I am surprised they let you put makeup on. I had to take a shower the day before and use special wipes. Then on surgery day they shaved all hair except for the arms and head. Then another shower and wipes again. No jewelry was allowed (I have a necklace I never really take off and it doesn't have a real clasp). As for paying yourself, may I ask how much they charge in Germany? A mitral valve repair in the US seems to be between $300k to $500k.
Greg Lewis Holy smokes!! I just swallowed my makeup! Man, you could be ruined without insurance!
Robert Miller Yeah, insurance in the US is an issue. People who don't have money and don't have insurance still get ... Read more
Robert Miller Yeah, insurance in the US is an issue. People who don't have money and don't have insurance still get treatment. The people who have insurance will cover that cost. Just last week I had to get some bloodwork done for my 1 week after being released from the hospital. My cardiologist told me that getting it done at the hospital will be about 3x more expensive than if I get it done at labcorp. He said the reason is that the hospital has to cover all the uninsured people while labcorp is an independent company that offers blood test services and therefore doesn't have to service uninsured people. I did have pretty good insurance that also allowed me to chose my surgeon. It only cost me about $15k.
Angela Meletiadis What a story, Klara! I had covid one month before my surgery. It was postponed about one month and I ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis What a story, Klara! I had covid one month before my surgery. It was postponed about one month and I was glad to get it over with!
Rose Madura Klara, what a story! If I didn't have insurance, it would have cost ~$425,000. Thank goodness I had ... Read more
Rose Madura Klara, what a story! If I didn't have insurance, it would have cost ~$425,000. Thank goodness I had good insurance.
Richard Munson Yes, i recall my surgery was in the 400 k range. The bad news is discovering greg wears make up. Hope ... Read more
Richard Munson Yes, i recall my surgery was in the 400 k range. The bad news is discovering greg wears make up. Hopefully not lip stick.
Klara Čičić Thanks guys. Andrew, so nicely said. "we all share that sensitivity in our heads and hearts, knowing ... Read more
Klara Čičić Thanks guys. Andrew, so nicely said. "we all share that sensitivity in our heads and hearts, knowing that we need to cherish every moment" Yes, we, heart warriors, know that better than most people. It is a good "side effect" from all this :)))
The little make up I am talking about is mascara on the tips of my lashes which only I could notice haha. Otherwise, it was the same for me, Robert. The price was cca 29k euros, as expected. We took bank loan. In Croatia I would get all of that for free because we have national health insurance, but mitral repair being so specific and an art acctually, I decided to look for prof. Borger who is "European David Adams" in my opinion... It was my choice, I wanted the best. There is a chance I would've gotten a successful repair in Croatia, it is done daily here...we have some marvelous heart surgeons, although lot of them went working abroad. Like Tomislav Mihaljevic who was cardiac surgeon and then CEO of THE Cleveland Clinic...Zagreb alumni :)) he is one of many. Sadly for Croatia but lucky for USA :)
Greg Lewis Does the price for surgery keep going up if there are problems?? Mine woulda been like 1.5 million!! ... Read more
Greg Lewis Does the price for surgery keep going up if there are problems?? Mine woulda been like 1.5 million!! And if it does, is it covered?
Robert Miller @Klara ah you sneaked in some mascara. Sometimes little things like that make a big difference. < ... Read more
Robert Miller @Klara ah you sneaked in some mascara. Sometimes little things like that make a big difference.
I can't believe you got mitral valve repair for Euro 29k without insurance paying anything. Are yo sure the insurance didn't pay anything? In any case, I would have made the same decision if it allows me to choose the surgeon. I paid a bit less than half of that but I also paid monthly insurance for many years.
Greg Lewis Robert. Didn't pay a dime for anything, here. But our income tax is higher maybe?
Patsy Stewart Klara, I'm sorry you had to take out a loan to pay for your surgery to get the best care. I had healt ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Klara, I'm sorry you had to take out a loan to pay for your surgery to get the best care. I had health insurance through my husband. Every year on the 1st of January you have to start all over again and meet a deductible....mine was $4,000 every year, and every year, I seemed to have it met in January. The insurance had a negotiated rate for every procedure, doctor appointments, etc., and after the deductible was met, everything I had done medically, including my medicine was $0. Larry paid close to $200 a week to have me on his plan, and I was very thankful for insurance. I had an unsuccessful surgery in November, and then a TAVR the following month in December of 2020. They were scrambling to get the insurance to ok the second surgery. When I went to see the surgeon, I was told that if the insurance didn't cover the TAVR, that they would cover it at no charge to me. It was through some kind of a program they had set up. I actually hadn't given it a thought that the insurance might not pay, and I was very thankful that she told me that. This year on January 1st., I went off of my husband's insurance plan and started on Medicare with an additional supplement insurance plan and a medication plan. I am very nervous about this new adventure. I'm sure they'll hate having me because I'm a medical mess. Lol!!
Timothy Andre Thank you for sharing Klara. Great story of your journey
Mindi Wieseman Your journey of a successful heart surgery is amazing,, Klara!
Robert Miller If anyone is interested I can elaborate but basically I paid some $15k for my first surgery. I had my ... Read more
Robert Miller If anyone is interested I can elaborate but basically I paid some $15k for my first surgery. I had my second surgery the same year and therefore met all my deductibles. I call it "buy one heart surgery, get one free". I still have to pay for my upcoming ultrasound (probably around $1k), medicine (probably around $200/month), etc.
Richard Munson Greg, i’m thinking a lighter shade of lipstick would be more becoming. To match your nail polish pe ... Read more
Richard Munson Greg, i’m thinking a lighter shade of lipstick would be more becoming. To match your nail polish perhaps. Pardon me while i cringe.
Klara Čičić Haha guys... I also had that picture in my head when you mentioned make up. Who know nowdays... I was ... Read more
Klara Čičić Haha guys... I also had that picture in my head when you mentioned make up. Who know nowdays... I was reading some guys journal here recently, and it said "my husband was by my side etc." I was surprised but at the end of the day "okay, why not, it is more common in USA, we just don't hear it here often..." Then I realised it was guy's guestbook post from some lady, haha. Robert yes, it was really 29000 euros, I have no German insurance at all. German health system is maybe closest to ideal, they have partly national, partly private system organized in a way that everyone is happy and quality is very good. Ofcourse there is no ideal health care system, so I believe they have their own challenges, but anyway, yes, 29k euros, really not unimaginable sum.
George Gardopee Some of these numbers are astonishing (heart-stopping?). I’m on Medicare plus an Advantage program. ... Read more
George Gardopee Some of these numbers are astonishing (heart-stopping?). I’m on Medicare plus an Advantage program. I got a pre-surgery estimate from the Cleveland Clinic that showed a total of $135,000 for all the pre-surgery testing, surgery, and hospital care. They (the Cleveland Clinic) ended up accepting just $39,500 from United Health. The difference was shown on the final bill as “Insurance Adjustment”. I guess the $39.5 K number is the negotiated price for the work - the original estimate showed a number like $35K as the Medicare cost. If I had no insurance or Medicare I’m sure the $135K number would have been what I would have had to pay. It seems like there is a big difference in the US between what the hospitals quote and what they will accept from the insurance companies and/or Medicare. I think in many cases they hide the “real” price from the consumer.
Samantha McClain Thank you for sharing your Journey!! I am loving reading through it.what a journey this has been.
Merry Christmas everyone! Thank you for being there for me during the most challenging time of my life! This community is a blessing for everyone going through ...Read more
Merry Christmas everyone! Thank you for being there for me during the most challenging time of my life! This community is a blessing for everyone going through heart valve surgery. Stay safe and well and keep on ticking everyone!
Klara Čičić And guess what I've been eating while my brother and sister are putting the Nativity scene :))))))
Pamela Gregory Merry Christmas Klara! I hope you have a wonderful day with your adorable children.
Adam Pick Love this!!! Happy Holidays Klara and family!!
Timothy Andre Merry Christmas Klara, I love the photos, especially the chocolate monster, lol
Klara Čičić Thank you everyone. I feel blessed. And about the white curtains, usually I would yell, go run and wi ... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you everyone. I feel blessed. And about the white curtains, usually I would yell, go run and wipe his face but yesterday I was resting on the couch and I was like "no, not today, we will wash it later, doesn't matter..." All that material stuff was meaningless next to that smile...
Susan Lynn That's a picture that needs to be framed!! Love the chocolate smile!! Hope the drapes made it!
Patsy Stewart Merry Christmas, Klara! Love seeing your little ones! That little one is just spreading some chocolat ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Merry Christmas, Klara! Love seeing your little ones! That little one is just spreading some chocolate cheer! Chocolate for everyone!! Lol!!! Soooo sweet!!!
Rhodie Jacobson Merry Christmas! Great pictures of your kids!! Thank you--sure tells a story!
Specific problem. Little available medical data on it. Does anybody, especially younger patients, stressed, sleep deprived (told you it's specific :) have dyspnoea ...Read more
Specific problem. Little available medical data on it. Does anybody, especially younger patients, stressed, sleep deprived (told you it's specific :) have dyspnoea after sleepless night? I'm not talking about tiredness and crappy feeling, but real objective shortness of breath after nights with multiple wakings (by babies in my case) and too little hours of sleep? I experienced it before the surgery and contributed it to my valve problem. But now after surgery it's the same. If I have a good night I wake up breathing fine. But after bad night I have visible shortness of breath (especially in exertion) which becomes less and less during the day! And in the afternoon I feel ofcourse supertired and drained, but interestingly not so much short of breath anymore... At the time of dyspnea my lungs are clear, puls regular... I don't suffer from opstructive sleep apnea... Scientists say there is a neurophysiological link between sleep deprivation and respiratory muscles and inspiratory indurace...but it is all still unclear. Anyway, I can't wait for my little ones to start sleeping better 🙂
Andrew Dial Hi there… I can’t say I have exactly what you’re experiencing. But… I do know that stress can do some MESSED up things to your body. I’ve had multiple instances where I’ve noticed excess stress combined with still recovering, + not getting enough sleep or interrupted sleep.. and I’ve had some shortness of breath, particularly when standing or when I wake up at night.
I can also absolutely still be super tired and drained. Lack of sleep alone is hard on the body, and then add recovering on top of that.
this may or may not help, but I think a lot of it COULD potentially be in your head. ... Read more
Andrew Dial Hi there… I can’t say I have exactly what you’re experiencing. But… I do know that stress can do some MESSED up things to your body. I’ve had multiple instances where I’ve noticed excess stress combined with still recovering, + not getting enough sleep or interrupted sleep.. and I’ve had some shortness of breath, particularly when standing or when I wake up at night.
I can also absolutely still be super tired and drained. Lack of sleep alone is hard on the body, and then add recovering on top of that.
this may or may not help, but I think a lot of it COULD potentially be in your head.
I’ve given myself palpitations many times due to excess stress, as well as headaches and migraine’s.
If this helps, good, if not… I’m interested to hear what others have to say
Danielle Elizabeth Hey Klara, I really struggled with working day shift and then night shift in the same week prior to s ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth Hey Klara, I really struggled with working day shift and then night shift in the same week prior to surgery in Aug-April 2022. Around 4am at work would have been the 20th hour of being awake and I had severe dyspnea plus light headedness. I would then get home at 8am and sleep for 4 hours before class and I do believe my cardiac symptoms were much worse on those days. Past surgery I still have dyspnea but I feel much worse on little sleep. I’ve been prescribed Trazodone as a sleep aid and it helps tremendously. Turns out my terrible fatigue was related to depression and Zoloft has worked wonders. I feel guilty for being medicated (I was taking zero medications 1.5 years ago). I hope you can find the answers you’re looking for.
Klara Čičić Thank you so much for your input. Yup Andy, I started my rehab and all the tests indicate I am under ... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you so much for your input. Yup Andy, I started my rehab and all the tests indicate I am under stress and very tense! I am gonna try and work on it. They gave me breathing excersizes and I am seeing psychologist for stress and tension management. But I seem to manage everything sooo much better when I have a good night sleep. It's 2 a.m. here and she already woke up like 5 times... Both my husband and I are drained... We have tried everything but our kids are just allergic to sleep haha. And we both are light sleepers ourselves so it's a bad combination. It is hard to accept it. When someone is interrupting your sleep is the worst.
Klara Čičić Oh Danielle thank you so much for your anwser. Your working schedule would kill me I think 😂It hel ... Read more
Klara Čičić Oh Danielle thank you so much for your anwser. Your working schedule would kill me I think 😂It helps to hear others with similar problem. No one around me could relate although I know numerous young mums but no-one has been sleep deprived as much and with shortness of breath 😂🙈I would take medications if they think it will help, bring them on 😂 we will see what psychology and a psychiatrist will say...
Donna Casaletto Are you napping during the day? I know post surgery there maybe some disruption to your sleeping sche ... Read more
Donna Casaletto Are you napping during the day? I know post surgery there maybe some disruption to your sleeping schedule 🤷🏻♀️. That’s one of the things stressing me out! I’m scheduled 1/27 😳😬Here’s hoping you get your answers and much needed sleep soon 🤞😴!!
Ana Brusso Dear Klara, I’m not one of the younger patients, but totally feel for you not getting good enough s ... Read more
Ana Brusso Dear Klara, I’m not one of the younger patients, but totally feel for you not getting good enough sleep and rest and how that is affecting your well being. I will be praying for you to start getting some good sleep and rest and naps so you can heal quickly and feel better. 🙏❤️
Greg Lewis Hi Klara!! Interesting problem you are having. I have had a lot of sleep problems, and Most i would ... Read more
Greg Lewis Hi Klara!! Interesting problem you are having. I have had a lot of sleep problems, and Most i would attribute to one med or another. Then, it just straightened out once some of the meds were out of my system. But no breathing problems. ..After surgery, i had to sleep on my back, all the time. I developed sleep apnea. This is much better sleeping on my side now. How do you know, you dont stop breathing during the night? Were you tested? Does it help to sleep in different positions? Here, is something i do know for sure...you have got to get at least some nights with good sleep. This is when you heal, during REM sleep. Your physical, and emotional health will begin to suffer. Maybe someone could watch the little ones for a night? Then see how you feel? Can you see a sleep specialist? What does the doctor say? 🤔
Klara Čičić Dear Greg, unfortunately I know all benefits of sleeping for a body, that's why it's even more frust... Read more
Klara Čičić Dear Greg, unfortunately I know all benefits of sleeping for a body, that's why it's even more frustrating😅 My mother in law was sleeping with them since my surgery and I felt much better, woke up rested and happy. It happens only when they wake me up during night...which is basically every night 😂 Now she had to go to her hometown and I am on my own to figure out how to accept the situation. Husband is often on call 24h... As Andrew said, it's probably about accepting and dealing with stress. This problem won't go away till they grow up. The thing that is peculiar is this specific breathing problem, I never heard anyone having SoB after poor night sleep... So input from Danielle hepls. Thank you guys! Donna I rarely have opportunity to nap, and even when I can it is sometimes hard to fall asleep because of all the tension, errands, kids on my mind... Everything will be fine, you won't have little ones disrupting your sleep and will be able to rest after surgery. Thank you Ana
Donna Casaletto No, my daughter the oldest of my no longer little’s will be turning 24 on Christmas Eve and my son ... Read more
Donna Casaletto No, my daughter the oldest of my no longer little’s will be turning 24 on Christmas Eve and my son will be turning 22 in March! Yikes, it happens so fast enjoy all those crazy and adorable moments 🤪
Greg Lewis Yep, the breathing thing, is peculiar for sure, agreed. We do try to help, but most are not doctors. ... Read more
Greg Lewis Yep, the breathing thing, is peculiar for sure, agreed. We do try to help, but most are not doctors. My advice is still to see a doctor, with the knowledge you might require, here.
Angela Meletiadis Klara, I raised four children and know about sleep deprivation. It seems that you and your husband ne ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis Klara, I raised four children and know about sleep deprivation. It seems that you and your husband need to work on helping your children feel comfortable and safe enough to abandon themselves to sleep soundly through the night. The older ones should be doing this, without waking up AT ALL before morning. The younger one perhaps needs some sleep training? I am praying for a solution for you. Goodnight and SWEET dreams.
Klara Čičić Yes Angela, perfectly said, that is the problem, two older ones didn't develop independentness and st ... Read more
Klara Čičić Yes Angela, perfectly said, that is the problem, two older ones didn't develop independentness and still wake up multiple times looking for mum or dad. I am aware of my past mistakes now (co-sleeping for example🙈).. We are currently doing everything we can. It is a struggle, but since three days ago they are in their own room in cool bunk bed we bought and I am super excited we have some progress. I know it's a "first world problem" but when they told me it's taking toll on my health during cardiac rehab...that's when I said enough... Now I feel a bit better every day. :)
Angela Meletiadis we were forced to co-sleep because of lack of space for our first child but that was a disaster. We w ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis we were forced to co-sleep because of lack of space for our first child but that was a disaster. We were very tired. It's good that you have them together because they will rely on each other for company and reassurance at night. A night light is important too - very few children are not afraid of the dark! A calming bedtime routine, a clean, comfortable room to sleep in, order, harmony, all these things help to encourage sleep and the confidence to abandon themselves. "You'll be fine. Hug your teddy bear. Say your prayers, etc. " I hope you turn a corner on this and get better. Stay strong and determined!
Klara Čičić Oh dear Angela, you seem to perfectly understand this. So, progress is made and we made a radical cha ... Read more
Klara Čičić Oh dear Angela, you seem to perfectly understand this. So, progress is made and we made a radical change. I don't want to jinx it but for now it all seems like a dream. Metaphorically and literally :))) they are sleeping in their own room. I know to someone this may seem like a silly problem that could've been solved a long ago, but it was so hard, they are attached, very hyperactive and brilliant kids who wouldn't give up easily haha... and as a result we were so sleep deprived and drained. Now I feel liberated. Hope it stays this way.🙏 My heart needs it. Literally. Now when I have no sleepless nights, my dyspnoea is rather gone or very less, in the morning mostly. It still worries me and I can't wait for my first echo...
Angela Meletiadis I'm so glad for you! I hope the youngest is also catching on to the benefits of independent, all nigh ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis I'm so glad for you! I hope the youngest is also catching on to the benefits of independent, all night sleep! They need it as well as the parents. They will wake up more calm and rested. You will heal faster with each good night of sleep. You've gotten your family out of that vicious cycle of interrupted sleep and now there's no going back, unless there is illness or teething!!! But even that needs a good night's sleep!
Hi guys, 6 weeks since surgery. I am feeling fine. Pain in shoulder is almost gone. Paroxysmal Afib is now my concern, I am having them for the last two... Read more
Hi guys, 6 weeks since surgery. I am feeling fine. Pain in shoulder is almost gone. Paroxysmal Afib is now my concern, I am having them for the last two days multiple times daily. I hope they will subside with time, it is still early... I am trying hard to accept all of this, as Danielle described in her latest post...
My kids are so beautiful and I love them but they are taking so much physical and mental energy and play a role in triggering Afib. My mother in law is helping so much but even if I had all the help in the world, I am still their mother and irreplaceable and have to deal with their needs, tantrums, providing them with much love, cuddling, especially since this is critical time in their childhood (5, 3 and 1 and a half years old)... That is bitter sweet cross I have to carry in this postoperative vulnerable and crazy period of my life. Hope remains that it will all get easier with time!
I am soon starting cardiac rehab and I can't wait because now I feel like I am stuck in my progress. But at least it is not worse :)
Good luck everyone and thank you for your support
Timothy Andre Klara, you are doing so well. It's still early days in your recovery and you are handling it all wit... Read more
Timothy Andre Klara, you are doing so well. It's still early days in your recovery and you are handling it all with grace and a positive attitude. Keep up the good work. Good luck with rehab as I'm sure it will help with the feeling of being stuck in your progress. Also, you are an inspiration and a great example of the strength in a mamma bear. I pray for you that your shoulder pain and Afib become a thing of the past. That's such a wonderful photo of you and your children Take care and thanks for your support of others in our community. God bless you
George Gardopee Klara - we all think you are a rock star. If, in the future, anyone has the nerve to ask if you are u ... Read more
George Gardopee Klara - we all think you are a rock star. If, in the future, anyone has the nerve to ask if you are up to any challenge, tell them you had OHS and immediately went home to three children aged 5, 3, and 1. Then drop the mic.
Kimberly Eisenhut Klara, this photo brought a big smile to my face today!!! Thank you for the update and what a beautif ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Klara, this photo brought a big smile to my face today!!! Thank you for the update and what a beautiful family you have! Take lots of breaks, don't feel bad about saying no once in a while, and keep on smiling :) LOVE the littles! You inspire me.
Ana Brusso Those beautiful kids Klara, they are happy to be with mommy.
Danny Mahoney Great photo, keep pushing forward in your recovery.
Greg Lewis Klara, i love what George said!! Just dont let them hit you in the chest with the mic. That might hur ... Read more
Greg Lewis Klara, i love what George said!! Just dont let them hit you in the chest with the mic. That might hurt a touch!! 😂 but remember what you are teaching those miniature people...nope, nope, not to take selfies while driving 😁...i mean that you can be strong, when you have to, and to meet problems head on!! They are always watching you, and they are seeing mom kicking some serious health issue in the butt!!!
Susan Lynn Beautiful photo, Klara! You definitely have a lot on your plate, but your children are positively p... Read more
Susan Lynn Beautiful photo, Klara! You definitely have a lot on your plate, but your children are positively precious!!! Maybe cardiac rehab will give you some time to yourself. Hope you enjoy it!
Deena Z You will love cardiac rehab. The exhaustion gets less and less, so keep on thinking about that and ... Read more
Deena Z You will love cardiac rehab. The exhaustion gets less and less, so keep on thinking about that and figuring out ways to tire-out your kiddies. You too hard on yourself!.
Andrew Dial Klara, you are doing amazing! Keep pushing forward, keep smiling, and relax your mind. Things are on ... Read more
Andrew Dial Klara, you are doing amazing! Keep pushing forward, keep smiling, and relax your mind. Things are on the right path for you. The Afib will go away soon, I’m optimistic. And Cardiac Rehab helps a ton. It forces you to exercise and get your heart rate up.
Patsy Stewart Klara, try to rest when you can. Seems like I have more afib episodes if I let myself get too tired o ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Klara, try to rest when you can. Seems like I have more afib episodes if I let myself get too tired or stressed out trying to get something done. I don’t have quitting sense. Listen to your body. Those little rug~rats are adorable!! Enjoy every cuddle you can get. I truly can’t imagine having 3 little ones to care for throughout this process! You’re doing great….getting better and I’m sure 1st prize winner in the most caring, best mom division!! Keep up the great work you’re doing!! 🥇
Klara Čičić Thank you all so much! Greg you made me laugh. I am just a human being with all its flaws. I am tryi... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you all so much! Greg you made me laugh. I am just a human being with all its flaws. I am trying to be a good example but many times I fail. Your messages of encouragement from each and every one of you give me strength and motivation!!!!!! (Not to mention faith in mankind which is lacking these days)
Rose Madura Klara, your children (and you) are beautiful and you are a wonderful mother. You are doing great. J... Read more
Rose Madura Klara, your children (and you) are beautiful and you are a wonderful mother. You are doing great. Just try to rest when you can and let your MIL help as much as possible. God bless you.
Angela Meletiadis So beautiful!!! Don't overdue things. Take a slow pace to life and your children will pick up on that ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis So beautiful!!! Don't overdue things. Take a slow pace to life and your children will pick up on that and follow your example. Deena is right. Don't be hard on yourself. A GOOD MOMMY IS FIRST AND FOREMOST A HEALTHY MOMMY!
Hi guys, 5 weeks today, pain in right thorax is overall better (it is definitely worst in the evening), my weird drainage wounds are slowly healing, I walk... Read more
Hi guys, 5 weeks today, pain in right thorax is overall better (it is definitely worst in the evening), my weird drainage wounds are slowly healing, I walk each day (I try 2,5 miles). While I walk alone I feel great and I feel I can walk even longer than 2,5 miles... but the other day when I walked and talked, it was a bit harder to breath, my sentences were fragmented, at one moment I had to stop and sit, it was a great reminder of my ohs, a "sober up" moment... All the other days I walk alone and feel like I am on the top of the world haha. I had one short episode of Afib the other night. There was a lot of excitement and a bit of stress that day so I wasn't that surprised (even before ohs heavy emotions were the trigger). All in all, I feel good and I am grateful for everything, sometimes it all feels like it was a dream? I wish everyone facing surgery soon good luck
Angela Meletiadis Klara, it sounds like you're on the right path toward healing! My wounds are worse in the evenings to ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis Klara, it sounds like you're on the right path toward healing! My wounds are worse in the evenings too, but I'm able to sleep well if I find a comfortable position and not toss and turn. I wish you a speedy and complete recovery!
Denise Duncan It's great to hear you're doing so well and progressing nicely! You'll be walking and talking befor... Read more
Denise Duncan It's great to hear you're doing so well and progressing nicely! You'll be walking and talking before you know it. It's amazing how the body heals itself even though we wish it were quicker! All the best in the coming weeks & months.
Rose Madura Congratulations Klara. Glad you are listening to your body. Take care.
Andrew Dial Everyday is a new day. Keep ur chin up, ur motivation forward, and a positive attitude.
Earl Brigham Good to hear you are doing well... I love your positive attitude!!!!
Marie Myers Your positive attitude is inspiring! I hope every day brings some improvements.
Timothy Andre You are doing great Klara. It sounds like you are listening to your body and resting when it asks yo... Read more
Timothy Andre You are doing great Klara. It sounds like you are listening to your body and resting when it asks you to. I understand what you mean when you say it sometimes feels like it was all a dream. I often have to remind myself just how major my surgery was. It's hard to believe it sometimes. Leading up to surgery and the actual surgery I just went through the motions and did what was necessary to get through it all successfully. But now that I am many months post surgery it's weird to think about what I went through. Surreal experience. I feel blessed as well. Keep up the good work and positive attitude. God bless you
Ana Brusso Great progress Klara, so proud of you that you listened to your body. Continued good health and God b ... Read more
Ana Brusso Great progress Klara, so proud of you that you listened to your body. Continued good health and God bless you! Happy Halloween 🎃
Kristian M. Glad you are getting better Klara!! Positive energy!
Donna Casaletto Take it easy and listen to your body! So glad to hear you’re feeling better each day 🥰‼️
Deena Z You are doing really well and walking far. Don't think your getting tired and breath- winded is u ... Read more
Deena Z You are doing really well and walking far. Don't think your getting tired and breath- winded is unusual. Your drainage holes could have been dealt with comparatively better, but every person and surgeon is different. As long as you are getting better each day, all is GOOD!!!
Patsy Stewart Oh, Klara! This is wonderful to read! I’ve been wondering about those drainage wounds and praying t ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Oh, Klara! This is wonderful to read! I’ve been wondering about those drainage wounds and praying that they were healing. I can almost see you walking with that big, beautiful smile of yours! Keep up the great progress and before long, you’ll be running and tumbling with those little ones. ~❤️
Greg Lewis Love that you are doing well!!! I had some pretty big drain holes too. They eventually filled in, to ... Read more
Greg Lewis Love that you are doing well!!! I had some pretty big drain holes too. They eventually filled in, to just like divots. It took awhile. I always found that all the pains were worse in the evening too, when your tired out. It will keep getting better!! Please dont push it too hard on the walks! Iike i always say, if you break it, then YOU gotta deal with it. Much easier to not break it!! An overuse injury can set you back months. I know...i did it. Dont do that. It sucks! Lol
Rita Savelis Dearest Clara, I definitely recommend walking alone at your own pace! I can walk for hours on my own ... Read more
Rita Savelis Dearest Clara, I definitely recommend walking alone at your own pace! I can walk for hours on my own but others make me tired. This is 7 years later (I still have liquid in my pleura). And talking while walking gets me way out of breath. Having said that I walk everywhere and take the subway and climb stairs and take dance class. But getting out of breath is, alas, my long term side effect. Take care.
Angela Meletiadis Greg, that's an important thing for all of us to remember, "An overuse injury can set you back months ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis Greg, that's an important thing for all of us to remember, "An overuse injury can set you back months" I need to post this on my front door before I go out somewhere and overdue it.
Greg Lewis Not a bad plan! Its also real hard to take emotionally as well. Its one thing when a complication hap ... Read more
Greg Lewis Not a bad plan! Its also real hard to take emotionally as well. Its one thing when a complication happens, but its another, when you create it yourself!!
Deena Z Ana is a little you; so happy looking; she is with her Mama! And look at you, one would never know t ... Read more
Deena Z Ana is a little you; so happy looking; she is with her Mama! And look at you, one would never know that you just went through open heart surgery and the aftermath. What a miracle this surgery is and your strong character and humor only add to it. Go girl.
Kimberly Eisenhut Beautiful photo of you and your little one! Thankful you are enjoying yourselves and creating wonder... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Beautiful photo of you and your little one! Thankful you are enjoying yourselves and creating wonderful memories :) Thank you for sharing, made me smile!
4 weeks post mitral valve repair. Feeling good, taking it easy. Still having night sweats and pain in my right thorax. Drainage wounds slowly heal, but it... Read more
4 weeks post mitral valve repair. Feeling good, taking it easy. Still having night sweats and pain in my right thorax. Drainage wounds slowly heal, but it will take time, prediction is 3 months. Cardiac rehab starts on November 21st. Greetings from beautiful Croatia to this lovely community!
Angela Meletiadis I wish I could just drive up to Zagreb to meet you. Be well, be at peace.
Deena Z Glad that the drainage wounds are healing, Klara. You will love cardiac rehab, because you can test... Read more
Deena Z Glad that the drainage wounds are healing, Klara. You will love cardiac rehab, because you can test your endurance knowing there are experts (and wires ) monitoring your heart. Want to visit beautiful Croatia! I read that Game of Thrones was largely field there. Amazing cliffs. Read seafood is awesome too!
Richard Munson I’ve had night sweats for 20 years klara. Old age. Better than night chills. Lol.
Klara Čičić Haha Richard :) Angela who knows, maybe we meet at the Mediterranean one summer, I would certainly lo ... Read more
Klara Čičić Haha Richard :) Angela who knows, maybe we meet at the Mediterranean one summer, I would certainly love to. Yes, Deena, Game of Thrones was filmed in Dubrovnik. I am in capital Zagreb, in the continental part of the country, but the seaside is magnificent...
Ana Brusso Klara, time flies, already four weeks since your surgery, amazing. Glad you are healing and you are t ... Read more
Ana Brusso Klara, time flies, already four weeks since your surgery, amazing. Glad you are healing and you are taking it easy. Continued good health and God bless you
3rd postoperative week after mini thoracotomy mitral valve repair. 2 drainage wounds complete dehiscence is my only complication so far, thank God. According ...Read more
3rd postoperative week after mini thoracotomy mitral valve repair. 2 drainage wounds complete dehiscence is my only complication so far, thank God. According to surgeons, it happens very rarely. Don't know why I was the lucky one, maybe I mobilised my arm too soon. Anyway, I am going for wound cleaning and a new dressing every 2 days. Since today, I think it started to improve a bit. My chest look like I took two bullets haha. Surgeon says healing will be long and scars would be ugly. I don't care about the scars, my only worry is potential endocarditis. I know statisticly chances are low, but the fear is irrational... Otherwise I am really good, I walk alot, now and then I get tired and have shortness of breath but that passes soon. I still have pain in my thorax, some areas are numb, some hypersensitive, it's still hard to sleep. All in all I feel very grateful. I hope this is new chapter in my life, kids are slowly growing up, no more maternity leaves, hopefully no more hospital stays, no more those pre-surgery anxieties, no more 'what ifs'... That is my hope, but who knows what future brings. I am thinking of all of you havin this surgery soon and hope for the best outcome! I am also thinking of all of you heart warrior veterans who helped me so much during my journey with your advices and encouragement! You are my angels and I thank you.
Ed Eller It's great that you have such a strong, and cute, support team at home!
Deena Z Who knows, the little one may be a surgeon some day. Good that you are not overly concerned about th... Read more
Deena Z Who knows, the little one may be a surgeon some day. Good that you are not overly concerned about the scars, because I healed really well and I am way older than you.
Hi guys, it's my 16th postoperative day. Today I went for deep surgical cleaning of the two drainage tubes wounds (necrectomy). There is no sign of... Read more
Hi guys, it's my 16th postoperative day. Today I went for deep surgical cleaning of the two drainage tubes wounds (necrectomy). There is no sign of inflammation and that is the most important thing. Cleaning was super painful as the wounds are quite deep and there are a lot of nerve ends involved. He did put a little bit of local anesthesia but overall it was Balkan style, bite your tongue and accept haha. I was shaking afterwards and felt exhausted physically and emotionally but now I am better... Plan is to put secondary stiches as soon as swabs come sterile (fingers crossed). It is a hurdle in a road, but I am grateful it is still nothing serious and hope it remains that way. I rationally tell myself: there are so many possible serious complications...thank God mine is only this little one. Good luck everyone, I am thinking of all of you facing this battle...
Donna Casaletto Beautiful picture and I hope each day you feel stronger and stronger ❤️🥰‼️
Timothy Andre Klara, as I've told you before, you are a strong woman with a positive attitude. You are doing great... Read more
Timothy Andre Klara, as I've told you before, you are a strong woman with a positive attitude. You are doing great at dealing with what ever your heart journey gifts you. Such a big inspiration to us all. God bless you I love the picture
Rose Madura Klara, such a beautiful picture and child. I'm sorry you had such a painful experience And amazed a... Read more
Rose Madura Klara, such a beautiful picture and child. I'm sorry you had such a painful experience And amazed at your wonderful attitude. Hang in there. Love your posts...
Yvonne Deane I'm so sorry you're experiencing this! Sending healing hugs to you!!
Deena Z Klara, funny remark - Balkan style. In the US, they probably would have drugged you beyond belief. ... Read more
Deena Z Klara, funny remark - Balkan style. In the US, they probably would have drugged you beyond belief. So glad that this ordeal is over for you. Your little sunshine has totally matching hair color to yours; beautiful little girl. She must have been so happy to see you come home. Hard for her to understand what was happening, but probably could feel that it was something intense. Love is healing.
Danielle Elizabeth I felt that in the way it was described! Balkan style was most of my in hospital care. I wish I’d a ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth I felt that in the way it was described! Balkan style was most of my in hospital care. I wish I’d advocated more for my pain. I hope you’re doing okay and I love the silver lining you’re always finding in each situation. Beautiful photo! Hope you heal well and this is just a small bump in the road!
Angela Meletiadis Bravo, Klara, for keeping a positive attitude in the midst of struggle. Keep your focus on what is im ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis Bravo, Klara, for keeping a positive attitude in the midst of struggle. Keep your focus on what is important: GETTING BETTER EVERY DAY IN ORDER TO ENJOY YOUR FAMILY! The photo says it all!!!
Greg Lewis I see three miracles from God, in front of us. You, your daughter, and your repaired heart, that kept ... Read more
Greg Lewis I see three miracles from God, in front of us. You, your daughter, and your repaired heart, that kept you alive! Nice photo!
Ana Brusso What a beautiful picture and thank you for sharing your very painful experience with your wounds. I ... Read more
Ana Brusso What a beautiful picture and thank you for sharing your very painful experience with your wounds. I’m sorry you had to go through that. Your smile says you are grateful and yes, it’s not as bad as it could have been. Continued healing. Your baby girl is gorgeous. Blessings
Richard Munson 2 beauties for sure. If i had known about the balkan method i would have fed exed a bullet for you to ... Read more
Richard Munson 2 beauties for sure. If i had known about the balkan method i would have fed exed a bullet for you to bite down on. Thats what they did in the wild west in usa.
Klara Čičić 😂👍 thank you everyone! I hope soon to give you some good news! It is still early and holes are ... Read more
Klara Čičić 😂👍 thank you everyone! I hope soon to give you some good news! It is still early and holes are deep.
Deena Z I was told that the younger you are the more painful the holes can be, particularly when they are tak ... Read more
Deena Z I was told that the younger you are the more painful the holes can be, particularly when they are taken out. --due to you having more muscle mass.
2 weeks postop. I feel fine, I breathe much better, still no Afib, anemia is rapidly improving, I have a lot of appetite, I live on a third floor without elevator ...Read more
2 weeks postop. I feel fine, I breathe much better, still no Afib, anemia is rapidly improving, I have a lot of appetite, I live on a third floor without elevator and I can climb with less and less stopping. I walk every day. The only bad thing is that my 2 drainage wounds or should I say holes at this point, unfortunately split (dehiscence is the term). One is worst then the other and that one is mildely inflamed. Today I went for a mini surgical cleaning (scraping I should say) of this deep wound and now it hurts alot. My pain tolerance is low so bear that in mind. I am on antibiotics just as a precaution but I must say I am terrified of potential endocarditis. Wounds are now gonna heal more slowly but I must think positive. Heart is fine and I feel fine, no fever or anything, no shortness of breath, no arryrhmia etc. and that is the most important thing! I still enjoy reading all your posts and updates! Good luck to everyone facing surgery soon. Apart from the first horrendous 24-48hours with drainage tubes, the rest is really not that bad and it is magnificent how fast body heals.
Denise Duncan I'm so sorry to hear this news. I look back to a little over a year ago when I had my surgery, and I... Read more
Denise Duncan I'm so sorry to hear this news. I look back to a little over a year ago when I had my surgery, and I can't believe I went through it. Take it easy, and you should heal quickly. You'll be enjoying your life as it was before you know it!
Greg Lewis That is good news, Klara! Your doing great! You will have some things not perfect. Sounds like you ac ... Read more
Greg Lewis That is good news, Klara! Your doing great! You will have some things not perfect. Sounds like you accept that. So you are in the right space. Do you have some good pain killers?
Richard Munson Wow, dihiscence, thats a tough one. Can you use that in a sentence? How about saying it 3 times fast. ... Read more
Richard Munson Wow, dihiscence, thats a tough one. Can you use that in a sentence? How about saying it 3 times fast. Vodka can be a good pain killer.
Greg Lewis I agree. Take it easy, until the wounds heal up some more.
Greg Lewis Mine were in pretty rough shape for awhile after too, i dont remember them splitting, just real deep, ... Read more
Greg Lewis Mine were in pretty rough shape for awhile after too, i dont remember them splitting, just real deep, and took awhile to fill in, but they eventually did. Now just small divits really. So dont worry, they will heal up!
Ed Eller Even with the challenges you continue to face you have a wonderful knack for being positive! Thank yo ... Read more
Ed Eller Even with the challenges you continue to face you have a wonderful knack for being positive! Thank you for that. May you heal quickly,
Mohammed Abdulrahman Hi Klara Thank you for your updates We missed your sharing in the group recently. where the su ... Read more
Mohammed Abdulrahman Hi Klara Thank you for your updates We missed your sharing in the group recently. where the surgery has been implemented?, in German? . Which doctor implemented the surgery? Dr. Michael ?
Ana Brusso Two weeks already, congratulations. I’m sorry about your wounds but I know you are well care for. A ... Read more
Ana Brusso Two weeks already, congratulations. I’m sorry about your wounds but I know you are well care for. As Angela said, one day at a time. God bless you
Klara Čičić Thank you everyone. It's amazing how your words have different weight, since you are heart warriors y ... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you everyone. It's amazing how your words have different weight, since you are heart warriors yourself. If my family tells me to take it easy I try to listen to them....but if for example Angela says "Klara, be careful" I instantly go into extra careful mode. Haha. Psychology. Greg, that sounds very encouraging, thanks man! Mohammed, yes, Prof. Borger did the surgery. You can go to "My story" and read all about it, how it all went, I explained in detail...
Kristian M. Klara, I am glad you are doing well. I too had some weird inflamed looking wounds but after my follow ... Read more
Kristian M. Klara, I am glad you are doing well. I too had some weird inflamed looking wounds but after my follow up they removed the stitches and it healed on its own. Just takes some time. I totally understand the fear of developing endocarditis, I got infected with it prior to surgery and I am still currently under antibiotics. We just gotta be extra careful moving forward. I hope you continue to get better!!
Patsy Stewart Klara, sorry about the newest bump in the road….or should I say pothole?!! Ouch!! Sending lots of p ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Klara, sorry about the newest bump in the road….or should I say pothole?!! Ouch!! Sending lots of prayers your way that they heal up soon. You’ve had quite the journey! How are those little ones and your husband doing? I’m sure they’re all excited to have you back home.
Rose Madura Klara, you are doing great! A true warrior 🪖
Klara Čičić Thank you, everyone. Did I say how much every message means? Kids are ok, little confused when mu... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you, everyone. Did I say how much every message means? Kids are ok, little confused when mummy goes into the apartment next door. (which I rented just for 4 weeks. Best idea ever! Thanks to you guys, your advice, I made that decision!). They want to go with me, they want to see where I sleep... In the evening they cry a little when I go. But other than that we are managing everything fine, my mother in law lives here for 4 weeks, she cooks, cleans and I will be forever grateful for that, kids love her, she is the best. My smallest boy (form the profile photo) is just a baby and he is a biggest loser (I don't know better sounding word) in all of this, losing his mummy's 100% attendance and care...that's why he is so attached to grandma now...goes to her every time. Which is totally reasonable and acctually good for him to have a replacement, but it saddens me a little... Yesterday he came to me and hugged me for the first time in a week... I was over the moon :)))
Rose Madura Oh Klara! To go through all this with small children. Poor guy probably just doesn't understand. Al... Read more
Rose Madura Oh Klara! To go through all this with small children. Poor guy probably just doesn't understand. All will be better soon for everyone. God bless you.
Angela Meletiadis Klara, that's really hard to swallow, but keep reminding yourself, "the better I take care of myself ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis Klara, that's really hard to swallow, but keep reminding yourself, "the better I take care of myself now, the sooner I will be able to take care of my children!" May God give you patience.
I safely arrived in my homeland, beautiful Croatia. I was travelling on my 8th and 9th postop day. On the first day we drove for 6h, then slept in a hotel, ...Read more
I safely arrived in my homeland, beautiful Croatia. I was travelling on my 8th and 9th postop day. On the first day we drove for 6h, then slept in a hotel, and second day for 5h. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be and that is thanks to the fact I did lie down on the back seat every now and then. I had two large pillows and a blanket. I made like a little bed. I know it wasn't the safest option... But I couldn't have sat all the way. Sitting was possible for 2 or 3 hours tops. We stopped every two hours to take a walk. Pain in right thorax (I had mini thoracotomy) was and still is pretty high (5-6/10). It is managable with drugs, but it is never 0, even with drugs. But I'd rather have pain then dyspneoa, nausea, arryrhmia,or any of the million possible postoperative complications....what I mean is I am grateful that it's only pain. It will pass. I am still weak, tired, can't talk much, can't walk much... But I am optimistic that slowly all of that will get better. Thank you all for each and every message you wrote! Each word means a lot to me and lifts my spirit instantly! The connection between us heart warriors which we have through this experience is special and unbreakable.
George Gardopee Welcome home Klara! I’m glad you had relatively little difficulty with traveling. It must be great ... Read more
George Gardopee Welcome home Klara! I’m glad you had relatively little difficulty with traveling. It must be great to see your children again. You will improve very quickly now I’m sure.
Ana Brusso Glad you made it home safely. Pace yourself and do more as you start feeling stronger. I’m sure you ... Read more
Ana Brusso Glad you made it home safely. Pace yourself and do more as you start feeling stronger. I’m sure your children are super excited to see you. Enjoy being home.
Greg Lewis Good to hear your home! Hopefully you keep improving, and are able to put this all behind you!
Ed Eller It's incredible that you can travel so far so soon and have such clear and meaningful posts! Keep up ... Read more
Ed Eller It's incredible that you can travel so far so soon and have such clear and meaningful posts! Keep up the healing, and the posts!
Claudia Kwalbrun I am glad you are home and on the mend. I am looking forward when I can say the same. Thank you for y ... Read more
Claudia Kwalbrun I am glad you are home and on the mend. I am looking forward when I can say the same. Thank you for your encouragement and kind words.
Richard Munson Welcome home, give the kids an extra hug.
Denise Duncan I love your positivity and hearing that you're doing great. Take it easy & I'll be checking in to h... Read more
Denise Duncan I love your positivity and hearing that you're doing great. Take it easy & I'll be checking in to hear more of your progress stories!
Susan Lynn Glad you're safely home Klara! I'm sure your family was thrilled to see you. You did it!! Take ... Read more
Susan Lynn Glad you're safely home Klara! I'm sure your family was thrilled to see you. You did it!! Take recovery one day at a time - slow and steady wins the recovery race. You're doing great!
Rose Madura So happy that you are safely home. You are a true heart warrior and I think you tugged on all our h... Read more
Rose Madura So happy that you are safely home. You are a true heart warrior and I think you tugged on all our heartstrings because you have your children who need their mother. God bless you Klara!
Linda Johnson Welcome home Klara, its so good to hear your surgery’ went well. Get plenty of rest and take care. ... Read more
Linda Johnson Welcome home Klara, its so good to hear your surgery’ went well. Get plenty of rest and take care.
Susan Eckermann Great to hear you're safely home, Klara! It must be wonderful to be home surrounded by your family.... Read more
Susan Eckermann Great to hear you're safely home, Klara! It must be wonderful to be home surrounded by your family. That will surely keep your spirits high as you continue your recovery. Your positivity is an inspiration. Best wishes for continued progress.
Bob Rini Welcome home, Klara! Wishing you a speedy recovery!
Danielle Elizabeth I am reading through your recent posts and am glad your surgery was a success! It definitely is a bat ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth I am reading through your recent posts and am glad your surgery was a success! It definitely is a battle and I enjoy reading your positive attitude through all of this. Wishing you a speedy recovery!!
Klara Čičić This was supposted to be a little video with all the photos but I guess it won't upload it :) too bad ... Read more
Klara Čičić This was supposted to be a little video with all the photos but I guess it won't upload it :) too bad....
Klara Čičić This was the first photo of the video when we were driving to Germany.... Now I am at the back of the ... Read more
Klara Čičić This was the first photo of the video when we were driving to Germany.... Now I am at the back of the car, and not looking like that hahah
Rose Madura So happy you are on your way home. Safe travels and may your recovery be uneventful. Be careful wit... Read more
Rose Madura So happy you are on your way home. Safe travels and may your recovery be uneventful. Be careful with hugs.....
Deena Z Klara, isn't it the best feeling EVER to know that the surgery is over; it was successful and that no ... Read more
Deena Z Klara, isn't it the best feeling EVER to know that the surgery is over; it was successful and that now you can go home and sleep in your own bed with your kids bouncing all over. -- but not on your chest:) Congrats and welcome to being a heart warrior. You were strong and kept your humor up too!
Ed Eller It's so good to see you are heading home! Yay!
Susan Lynn Safe travels, Klara!! So glad you're headed home!!!
Jay Burgess It is so nice to have this behind you. Road to recovery. Sound like everything went smooth which is g ... Read more
Jay Burgess It is so nice to have this behind you. Road to recovery. Sound like everything went smooth which is great.
Ana Brusso Looking good Klara. Praying for travel mercies
Kimberly Eisenhut The Video works if you view it on laptop!!! It is Beautiful! I'm crying over here! So beautifully d... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut The Video works if you view it on laptop!!! It is Beautiful! I'm crying over here! So beautifully done. You inspire me Klara. Enjoy your new journey and hope you improve every day and have no setbacks. Hugs to your lovely family today
Adam Pick I am just seeing this video... Speechless... Beyond beautiful... Tears swelling on eyelids... Thanks... Read more
Adam Pick I am just seeing this video... Speechless... Beyond beautiful... Tears swelling on eyelids... Thanks so much for sharing a part of your journey with us. Again, thank you. P.S. I will do my best to fix the phone playback issue that Kim mentions above.
Pamela Gregory I just watched your video! I guess it is very emotional for all of us to watch. Thank you so much fo... Read more
Pamela Gregory I just watched your video! I guess it is very emotional for all of us to watch. Thank you so much for sharing your personal experience with everyone. You look like you are doing great
Patsy Stewart ❤️❤️❤️Loved your video!! Klara!! You did it!! Welcome home!
Rose Madura Was able to see the video today. Very nice. You are a true heart warrior 🪖🪖.
Kimberly Eisenhut it plays perfectly when you go to Klara's page and click on her photo section, then click play. Keep ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut it plays perfectly when you go to Klara's page and click on her photo section, then click play. Keep in mind when uploading a video, maybe mention it will only work by going to your page and go into photos. This will add a whole new level to this wonderful site :)
jonette kruk Thank you for sharing, you and your family are absolutely beautiful! You give me more hope than I thi ... Read more
jonette kruk Thank you for sharing, you and your family are absolutely beautiful! You give me more hope than I think you know....whoever thought I would find such a sweet friend thousands of miles from me. 15 days and counting.....love the pics....this has given me the idea to do the same so I can look back at my progress as well as share my progress like you have.
Hello everyone, just an update, 7th postoperative day, tomorrow they are releasing me home. Still have some lab parameters that need to be adjusted but otherwise ...Read more
Hello everyone, just an update, 7th postoperative day, tomorrow they are releasing me home. Still have some lab parameters that need to be adjusted but otherwise I am fine. On the 4th day I overdid myself as I felt really good, I was walking on the ward a lot, talking to my family on the phone whilst walking around the room at the same time, it was very exciting day, my hero anesteziologist came to see me and after him my surgeon also, I didn't nap that day, in the afternoon I had heart ultrasound which was interpreted worsely than it really is, so it was emotional rollercoaster and physical strain all day long. After that day, my overall power went to "please charge... shutting down in 30 sec". The next day I felt like 2nd postoperative day, so weak and empty. Since then, I have learned to take it easy, I am basically lying most of the time, watching British comedy on YouTube, I only take one or two slow walks on the ward, I took a shower by myself, my sister washed my hair... Plan today is to try to walk on the steps with physiotherapy. I am optimistic aboout that. My iron level is slowly improving, as is my Hb. The trip home will be long so I am saving my energy. We will section the trip and sleep in Austria. Pain is still there, night sleep is totally fragmented, it is hard to find a position, and when I do - I sleep no more than 3 hours. All of that is normal and I am accepting it, my recovery is my own. Informations on this site were immensely helpful as I wasn't surprised by any of this. Peace comes from knowledge :) Wishing all of you facing surgery a lot of strength! You will do it and everything will be fine!
Richard Munson Klara, wishing you continuous improvement, and a safe trip home. Sounds like you are heading to a goo ... Read more
Richard Munson Klara, wishing you continuous improvement, and a safe trip home. Sounds like you are heading to a good outcome.
Timothy Andre Your doing great Klara, continue to listen to your body and take it easy. Have a safe and uneventful... Read more
Timothy Andre Your doing great Klara, continue to listen to your body and take it easy. Have a safe and uneventful trip home. I assume your taking a car ride home, remember to stop every couple hours and walk a little. We are all proud of you for handling your heart journey like a true heart warrior. God bless you Klara
Ed Eller It's wonderful to hear you are going home tomorrow! Woo-Hoo! You said that peace comes from knowledge ... Read more
Ed Eller It's wonderful to hear you are going home tomorrow! Woo-Hoo! You said that peace comes from knowledge, please know that the knowledge you are sharing is providing peace to us! Safe travels home.
Pamela Gregory Yay🎉you are going home. So glad you are progressing so well! It will be wonderful to so your kids ... Read more
Pamela Gregory Yay🎉you are going home. So glad you are progressing so well! It will be wonderful to so your kids 💕. I hope you have an uneventful trip home
Klara Čičić Thanks guys! I am more than glad if my story helps. We acctually did 2 flights of stairs today. And a ... Read more
Klara Čičić Thanks guys! I am more than glad if my story helps. We acctually did 2 flights of stairs today. And after that I called my children on WhatsApp video for the first time. I must say that wasn't the best idea. After that I was so soooooo exhausted. I needed to talk loudly during that call and sort of entertain them since they are little (3 and 1yo) and I was smiling and waving so that they see me happy.... I know it sounds ridiculous, but that short call was so draining, my supplies of energy dropped again... Now I am just lying and it is slowly getting better.... Another lession for me haha.
Rhodie Jacobson I very much appreciate your..."my recovery is my own"...and "peace comes from knowledge". Thank you f ... Read more
Rhodie Jacobson I very much appreciate your..."my recovery is my own"...and "peace comes from knowledge". Thank you for that! In the middle of your own recovery, you are so generous with blessings. God Bless YOU! You are tough and I am so glad for your healing.
Richard Munson Wait till you actually see them in person. And you think you’re tired now.
Ana Brusso Safe trip home and continued recovery and good health. God bless you
Susan Eckermann Klara, best wishes for continued good health & progress. So glad to hear you will soon be on your w... Read more
Susan Eckermann Klara, best wishes for continued good health & progress. So glad to hear you will soon be on your way home to be with your family. It sounds like you are making a great recovery. As you so aptly state, your recovery is your own. You are slaying it like a true warrior! Thank you so much for the inspiration. One day… one hour at a time, you are getting stronger and making progress. God bless you .
Phyllis Petersen Traveling mercies! All the best for continued improvement and a speedy recovery.
Hi lovely people, just a few hospital stuff related things: our experienced warriors on this site mentioned long phone charger wire, I didn't get that one serious ...Read more
Hi lovely people, just a few hospital stuff related things: our experienced warriors on this site mentioned long phone charger wire, I didn't get that one serious enough to acctually go to store and buy one! :) Life would be so much easier... Game changers for me were woollen very thick socks, acctually even two pairs at the same time! Because my feet were apsolutley freezing the first two days (circulation was yet not adequately established). Lovely ladies here mentioned it once and I am so glad I brought those. And I have my own memory foam pillow with me, it's anatomically shaped, I use it at home and I am so happy it's here with me next to the hospital ones. Foamy earplugs are also useful, hand creme and lipbalm. Good luck to everyone going into this battle!
Pamela Gregory Thanks Klara.how about pajama pants or top?
Pamela Gregory Do you ever shower while in the hospital?
Klara Čičić About the shower, not yet. Nurses told me tomorrow maybe (that would be 5th postoperative day). Can't ... Read more
Klara Čičić About the shower, not yet. Nurses told me tomorrow maybe (that would be 5th postoperative day). Can't wait. I have baby wipes, that's been useful. Yesterday was the first day I wore my own pajama: normal pants but top must have buttons, it's easier. I wore it two days preop in the hospital ofcourse, and then for those worst three days I wore their hospital gown, and then yesterday finally my pajama again, to feel more like human :) I am happy to answer anything for you. It's good to have some purpose while being here so vulnerable and alone and bored :)
Pamela Gregory very helpful! Thanks Klara. If anything else you think is important please let me know
Leslie Houseal It sounds like you're doing well and right on track Klara. Stay positive, hydrated, and move as much ... Read more
Leslie Houseal It sounds like you're doing well and right on track Klara. Stay positive, hydrated, and move as much as they allow you to. As for the shower, it will feel so good!
Susan Eckermann Thanks Klara. I’m definitely adding the long phone cord and fuzzy socks to my list. It sounds like ... Read more
Susan Eckermann Thanks Klara. I’m definitely adding the long phone cord and fuzzy socks to my list. It sounds like you are moving right along with your recovery. It’s reassuring to people like me, who are awaiting surgeries, that you and other warriors describe what it’s really like. The ups and downs, highs and lows, the reality of recovery, and how we can be better prepared. Prayers for your continued progress, strength, mobility and good rest. You’ve got this!
Claudia Kwalbrun Thanks Klara for reminding me things to bring with me to the hospital. Definitely would have forgotte ... Read more
Claudia Kwalbrun Thanks Klara for reminding me things to bring with me to the hospital. Definitely would have forgotten the phone charger and that would have been a disaster since I am on my phone constantly. Also the socks.
Angela Meletiadis Bravo to you, Klara for recognizing your body signs! For those of you who have a long journey home af ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis Bravo to you, Klara for recognizing your body signs! For those of you who have a long journey home after surgery, Rose Madure is right on. Bring a pillow in the car with you to buffer the bumps on the way!
Rose Madura I used it at the hospital when sitting in the chair.
Angela Meletiadis I had lovely sponge baths in ICU, including hair wash. First shower was in the cardiac ward, once the ... Read more
Angela Meletiadis I had lovely sponge baths in ICU, including hair wash. First shower was in the cardiac ward, once the wires were disconnected. Every hospital is different, but St Luke's in Thessaloniki (northern Greece) pampered me with regard to hygiene.
A little setback this morning as the fluid appears around my lungs, but it doesn't require dreinage, only diuretics, it should go away. This morning was emotional ...Read more
A little setback this morning as the fluid appears around my lungs, but it doesn't require dreinage, only diuretics, it should go away. This morning was emotional overwhelming as I felt difficulty breathing, I cried a little and they gave me oxygen and nurses comforted me and after that all was better. I am walking a bit around my room very slowly. Anemia is quite severe, but all is expected and will get better, they reassure me. Today is my birthday which is quite funny because I feel like a newborn learning to breathe, talk, walk...it is like my first birthday haha. Visual aura or fireworks are here, Marie, Richard I remembered you...but they go away fast. Everyone getting surgery I wish a lot of strength and patience, you can do it!
Pamela Gregory Happy Birthday 🎁🎂🎊 Clara!!! They will get you comfortable and healing fast.
Rhodie Jacobson Happy Birthday...and healing blessings to you!
Rita Savelis Happy birthday Klara. I'm sorry that you have to experience heart surgery and one of its common after ... Read more
Rita Savelis Happy birthday Klara. I'm sorry that you have to experience heart surgery and one of its common aftereffects - liquid in the lung lining (pleural effusion), which should diminish with the use of diuretics. This liquid can cause exhaustion and shortness of breath. Crying is common, I hear you, because emotions are high and you have been through so very very much. All of your body and mind is reacting to the ordeal, and it takes time to recover, maybe more time than one expects. Everyone is an individual, every recovery is singular. It's hard. And then time goes by. Take care.
Marie Myers Good info from Rita. I was all over the place emotionally, especially when I went home. Be patient wi ... Read more
Marie Myers Good info from Rita. I was all over the place emotionally, especially when I went home. Be patient with yourself ; you have been through a lot, both physically and emotionally. Recovery takes time!
Rose Madura Happy Birthday Klara! Each day will get a little better for you. Be kind to yourself and listen to... Read more
Rose Madura Happy Birthday Klara! Each day will get a little better for you. Be kind to yourself and listen to your body. God bless you.
Claudia Kwalbrun Happy Birthday Klara.🎂🎈 Since I haven’t had my surgery, I can’t comment on what you are ... Read more
Claudia Kwalbrun Happy Birthday Klara.🎂🎈 Since I haven’t had my surgery, I can’t comment on what you are going through but as you said to me, if I can do it, You can do it so hang in there. Before you know it you will be home with your beautiful children.
Klara Čičić Thank you all for the wonderful words, wishes. Rita, your story somehow stick with me as I instantly ... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you all for the wonderful words, wishes. Rita, your story somehow stick with me as I instantly recognised myself and was thinking my healing would be similar to yours overall... Thank you for your kind words. Time really isn't measured by days here, but by hours as thing change hourly.
Laura Johnston Happy birthday, Klara💕 Last night was my first night home. Thought I was going to sleep better but ... Read more
Laura Johnston Happy birthday, Klara💕 Last night was my first night home. Thought I was going to sleep better but I do believe I got some healing rest. It is true your emtions run the gamut. I was and still am all over the place emotionally. We just have to hang in there. Love and prayers to you.
Deena Z Happy birthday, Klara!! Keep the walking up! I found that the more I walked, the better I started ... Read more
Deena Z Happy birthday, Klara!! Keep the walking up! I found that the more I walked, the better I started to feel. I called them my "strolls". Also, I don't know if you eat beef, but your hemoglobin is very low now, and eating beef helps increase it more quickly.
Brady Busch Happy Birthday Anniversary Klara.I'm thankful and glad for the people who can give us the care we nee ... Read more
Brady Busch Happy Birthday Anniversary Klara.I'm thankful and glad for the people who can give us the care we need.
Susan Eckermann Happy Birthday Klara! You positivity is so inspiring. You are making great progress and will so... Read more
Susan Eckermann Happy Birthday Klara! You positivity is so inspiring. You are making great progress and will soon be home with your family. I pray for continued strength, healing and comfort for you. Thank you sincerely for sharing your journey. It is helping many of us to better prepare for and be in a good mindset for our surgical journeys.
Holly Wale Happy Birthday! Glad to hear you are on the mend!
Patsy Stewart Happy Birthday, Sweet Klara!!🎶🎂🎉🎈Sending prayers that the fluid dissipates and you soon b ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Happy Birthday, Sweet Klara!!🎶🎂🎉🎈Sending prayers that the fluid dissipates and you soon begin to feel a lot better. Sometimes we’re so focused on the surgery itself, and we don’t really realize the battle that is ahead once our eyes pop open. You can do this! One minute~one hour at a time! ~❤️
Claudia Kwalbrun I just told my daughter that I joined Adam Pick’s website and unknown to me she also joined 12 year ... Read more
Claudia Kwalbrun I just told my daughter that I joined Adam Pick’s website and unknown to me she also joined 12 years ago when my granddaughter Sarah Weir who was 5 at the time was scheduled to have her mitral valve repaired with Dr Del Nido in Boston. She was contacted through this site by many people in the world going though similar heart surgeries, especially parents of young children. Thank god for this community on this site who helped all of us during the stressful time before the surgery. Sarah is 16 years old and healthy and is involved in sports like Volleyball.
I am alive. Repair was successful. Prof. Borger never saw a Barlow like mine, very complex. I feel awful but am happy at the same time. It's hard to breath ...Read more
I am alive. Repair was successful. Prof. Borger never saw a Barlow like mine, very complex. I feel awful but am happy at the same time. It's hard to breath and I have lot of pain, but can't tolerate opiats.
Adam Pick Wonderful to hear!!! Woo-Hoo!!! So happy!!!
Pamela Gregory So happy to hear from you so soon!!! Success Hopefully they can help you with your pain. Take care ... Read more
Pamela Gregory So happy to hear from you so soon!!! Success Hopefully they can help you with your pain. Take care of you
Donna Casaletto That’s great to hear…sending speedy recovery wishes your way
Richard Munson You’ll be leaping in Leipzig in a day or 2 and ready for some hot potato salad. Glad you’re alive ... Read more
Richard Munson You’ll be leaping in Leipzig in a day or 2 and ready for some hot potato salad. Glad you’re alive, you must also be glad. Go klara.
George Gardopee Excellent news! It is great that you could get a repair. I’ll bet you’ll feel a lot better very q ... Read more
George Gardopee Excellent news! It is great that you could get a repair. I’ll bet you’ll feel a lot better very quickly,
Timothy Andre Yay Klara, Congratulations on a successful surgery. Welcome to recovery. Take it one day at a time a... Read more
Timothy Andre Yay Klara, Congratulations on a successful surgery. Welcome to recovery. Take it one day at a time and get some rest
Rose Madura Wonderful news Klara! Welcome to recovery. Listen to your body and follow doctors instructions. God... Read more
Rose Madura Wonderful news Klara! Welcome to recovery. Listen to your body and follow doctors instructions. God bless you!
Terry Tannenbaum Happy for you Klara that the hard part is over. I wish you a successfull recovery.
Susan Lynn Yay!!! Glad you were able to get a repair. Hang in there - you'll be surprised how much better you... Read more
Susan Lynn Yay!!! Glad you were able to get a repair. Hang in there - you'll be surprised how much better you'll feel in a few days!
Denise Duncan Give it time, Klara. I, too, couldn't handle the opiates once they stopped giving them intravenousl... Read more
Denise Duncan Give it time, Klara. I, too, couldn't handle the opiates once they stopped giving them intravenously, and that was the second or third day—all the best to you. I'll follow your progress!
Klara Čičić Thank you everybody, it is so hard, like being hit by a truck, not that I know the feeling. But every ... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you everybody, it is so hard, like being hit by a truck, not that I know the feeling. But every minute, every hour I am tiny bit better. I appreciate you all even more now. This is a battle and we are warriors. It is hard to breath because of the tubes, and I have back pain from surgery position I was in. I have analgesia catether. I can type but I can not talk much.... Thank you all
Patsy Stewart Wonderful news to hear from you! Still lifting you up in prayer to get better. ~❤️
Denise Duncan Hang in there! So many people are rooting for you!!!
Ana Brusso Hi Klara, so happy to hear from you. I am sorry you are uncomfortable but this too shall pass. Welcom ... Read more
Ana Brusso Hi Klara, so happy to hear from you. I am sorry you are uncomfortable but this too shall pass. Welcome to recovery and hope you get the right size bed. God bless you 🙏❤️
Klara Čičić I am a bit emotional and I must say I love you all. Imagine if we all get a dinner party one day in t ... Read more
Klara Čičić I am a bit emotional and I must say I love you all. Imagine if we all get a dinner party one day in the USA. It would be so cool. Although maybe too many emotions and excitement would get many of us in Afib on this party hahaha
Richard Munson Good idea, i’ll bring some hot potato salad.
Rhodie Jacobson Sakes alive, you are tough! Very happy for you!!
Dear heart warriors, my friends, thank you very much for your well wishes. Covid 19 has hit us hard, but we are finally recovering and feel almost 100%. I... Read more
Dear heart warriors, my friends, thank you very much for your well wishes. Covid 19 has hit us hard, but we are finally recovering and feel almost 100%. I am so sorry I couldn't write here sooner, although my thoughts were with this community! My surgery was ofcourse postponed but as I said I wasn't able to write here and correct the date... New date is September the 26th! I am very happy new date is so soon, but I expected later date... Now I am regaining my strength, vitaminizing and resting, ready for the german adventure soon :)))) thank you all once again! I appreciate each and every one message...
George Gardopee Klara - I’m glad you are recovering and that you were able to reschedule so quickly. The waiting an ... Read more
George Gardopee Klara - I’m glad you are recovering and that you were able to reschedule so quickly. The waiting and anticipation is the worst part. Good luck!
Deena Z We are with you Klara in heart and spirit. Almost there.❤️
Rose Madura So glad you are better. Best wishes for a safe trip and successful surgery.
I contracted Covid...me and kids are positive since this morning. Such a bummer. My little guy from the profile photo is so ill, it hit him the hardest... I ...Read more
I contracted Covid...me and kids are positive since this morning. Such a bummer. My little guy from the profile photo is so ill, it hit him the hardest... I hope in a few days it will all be behind us. I wrote e mail to hospital in which surgery was planned and I am waiting for their response, probably a new surgery date. I will have to cancel flight, all people involved have to change their plans... I feel awful, mentally and physically, but I tell myself "Come on, it's better to contract it now then after surgery" this thought keeps me above water. We are gonna survive this now and be strong and healthy for the new date! 💪😟
Timothy Andre Hi Klara, I'm sorry you and your family are dealing with Covid. You are correct about it being bette... Read more
Timothy Andre Hi Klara, I'm sorry you and your family are dealing with Covid. You are correct about it being better to have it now rather than after surgery. I contracted Covid from my surgeon during or shortly after surgery and it sure made my hospital stay and first week at home extremely difficult. I hope and pray that you all heal quickly. Stay positive, everything will work out just how it's supposed to.
Klara Čičić Thank you very much Tim, it means a lot!
Susan Jones Sorry about your luck. Higher powers at work with the timing of these things. Wishing all a speedy r... Read more
Susan Jones Sorry about your luck. Higher powers at work with the timing of these things. Wishing all a speedy recovery from COVID
Marie Myers I am so sorry this happened to you! Hope things smooth out , and you get the perfect date for your su ... Read more
Marie Myers I am so sorry this happened to you! Hope things smooth out , and you get the perfect date for your surgery!
Deena Z Hi Klara, disheartening to potentially have surgery postponed, but maybe it won't be. Either way, one ... Read more
Deena Z Hi Klara, disheartening to potentially have surgery postponed, but maybe it won't be. Either way, one of my fears post surgery was that I would get Covid, when my body was still very weak. So you can check this concern off your list. (by the way, your English is excellent. wish I could write another language like you can.)
Klara Čičić Thank you all, my dear, dear people, it's so amazing to be able to come here and find these words fr... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you all, my dear, dear people, it's so amazing to be able to come here and find these words from all of you! Gives me hope and strength! It really does. Dear Deena, I am always worried for my grammar and think it will sound funny... My baby still has 40 degrees celsius temperature, and I have 39 hope it will be better tomorrow, we are doing everything we can... I'll keep you posred.
Klara Čičić I instantly remembered Howard and went to check for how many days was his surgery postponed....just t ... Read more
Klara Čičić I instantly remembered Howard and went to check for how many days was his surgery postponed....just to see what I can expect maybe
Rose Madura Oh Klara, I am so sorry you are all sick with Covid. My husband and I recently got it and recovered... Read more
Rose Madura Oh Klara, I am so sorry you are all sick with Covid. My husband and I recently got it and recovered quite well. I wish a smooth recovery for you and hope it does not interfere with the surgery.
Terry Tannenbaum Best of luck to you and your family for a speedy recovery. I had it last December and it doesn't last ... Read more
Terry Tannenbaum Best of luck to you and your family for a speedy recovery. I had it last December and it doesn't last long.
Susan Lynn Sending prayers to you and your family. Hope you can get rescheduled quickly. Please keep us pos... Read more
Susan Lynn Sending prayers to you and your family. Hope you can get rescheduled quickly. Please keep us posted.
Wes Edens Best wishes for your upcoming surgery! You’ve got this!
Dear people, I'm in a dilemma and maybe your kind anwsers will help me with my decision - we live in small apartment, I have three lovely kids under five, ...Read more
Dear people, I'm in a dilemma and maybe your kind anwsers will help me with my decision - we live in small apartment, I have three lovely kids under five, very active and lively and attached to me and they love waking up at night for no reason haha. After I return from surgery I was thinking about renting apartmant next to us (happens to be empty and very kind neibourghs are happy to rent temporarly). Will it be possible for me to be in my room and rest while kids are in the next room jumping up and down... I don't know how will I feel, will I have a lot of pain...will kid's presence be a big problem... Is it crazy to rent apartment next door just to be alone and have peace, but also be close to them? I think I'll rent but just need a push from you expirienced guys that it's a smart decision since I really don't know the feeling after surgery... Thank you all very much
Richard Munson Good idea klara, just buy a couple of those baby cameras so you know what is going on.
Ginny Turner Hi Klara, renting next door might be a good idea for the first few weeks after you return home. I did ... Read more
Ginny Turner Hi Klara, renting next door might be a good idea for the first few weeks after you return home. I did not experience much pain after surgery but was very tired. You will need rest as your heart heals and having three young children who want to be right by mom might not allow for much rest. Wishing you well!
Marie Myers I agree with Ginny. I did not have a lot of pain either, but I was very tired for a couple weeks. It ... Read more
Marie Myers I agree with Ginny. I did not have a lot of pain either, but I was very tired for a couple weeks. It can take a few weeks for your blood count to get up to normal, hence the tiredness. Don’t think I would have been up to any child care, cooking or housekeeping for a couple weeks. Sleeping did not come easy for me either for several months. Do you have someone helping you?
Richard Munson You also might consider a nanny in the apartment. We had 3 all under 3 but no heart surgery and my wi ... Read more
Richard Munson You also might consider a nanny in the apartment. We had 3 all under 3 but no heart surgery and my wife did not work and she was exhausted most nights. Plus i travelled a lot on business. My mother and her mother helped when possible. No matter your age, it takes awhile to bounce back from ohs.
Richard Munson Wait till you take your first at home shower. Exhausting to say the least.
Rose Madura I concur with all the comments. The idea of a nanny is especially interesting if you can afford it. ... Read more
Rose Madura I concur with all the comments. The idea of a nanny is especially interesting if you can afford it. You will want to take lots of naps and won't sleep well at first. Pain is manageable but you don't want your children hurting your sternum with their never ending excitement. God bless you!
Danielle Elizabeth I just read the comments and it was exhausting to take a shower the first 4 weeks after surgery (I ha ... Read more
Danielle Elizabeth I just read the comments and it was exhausting to take a shower the first 4 weeks after surgery (I had complications with my lungs that mainly have contributed). Buying a plastic chair for the shower saved me. Also the hot flashes at night leaving me drenched in sweat were bad. If you can have someone help with the kids at least the first 2 weeks home from the hospital it will help. Falling and staying asleep was not much of a problem.
Klara Čičić Thank you all very much! That's it, no more second thoughts. Of course someone would take care of the ... Read more
Klara Čičić Thank you all very much! That's it, no more second thoughts. Of course someone would take care of the children (either way), I forgot to mention... My mother in law will come and stay with us for 4 weeks and husband is taking 3 weeks of holiday leave (not exactly a holiday haha) to take care of me and the kids along with his mom who is super capable and kids love her. After she's gone (has a job to go back to and sadly lives in another town). I will definitely consider a help from nanny if I still feel unwell...Thank you all once more :))) I will keep you updated... I can't wait for my surgery...4 weeks to go today!
Richard Munson Well, i certainly feel much better after reading your last input. I was picturing you all alone with ... Read more
Richard Munson Well, i certainly feel much better after reading your last input. I was picturing you all alone with your kids in another apartment on a rampage. I considered flying over and being your nanny. Well, maybe not. I would not consider taking a shower alone until you feel strong enough to handle it. No kidding, its exhausting. The observer can stand right outside in case you feel weak. Or take it together if they are a good friend. Lol.
Susan Lynn Richard is quite the comedian, but I have to agree about the showers. Keep them short and warm, ... Read more
Susan Lynn Richard is quite the comedian, but I have to agree about the showers. Keep them short and warm, not hot. I'd also recommend getting someone to watch your children who can also assist you with meal prep, housework, etc. You'll need your rest for a few weeks. All the best to you!
Linda Johnson Klara, I agree with the recommendations from the group. Especially with 3 children under 5, you will ... Read more
Linda Johnson Klara, I agree with the recommendations from the group. Especially with 3 children under 5, you will need help at home. Besides needing to rest you will also have lifting restrictions for a while postop so having a nanny available until your restrictions are lifted would be helpful. I was advised not to lift more than 5-10 pounds for six weeks and no driving for six weeks. I did not have pain after my mitral and tricuspid repair due to the nerve block during surgery, though my right sided ribs and muscles were tender and felt bruised due to the right thoracotomy.. I did not need to take anything for pain other than a lidocaine skin patch in the hospital or at home. The warm showers at home felt heavenly on the ribs and chest muscles.
Richard Munson I did not have the nerve block so i am a novice regarding it. My question is: if it is just blocking ... Read more
Richard Munson I did not have the nerve block so i am a novice regarding it. My question is: if it is just blocking the pain and the actual surgery is the same, is a person more apt to overdo physical activity because it does not hurt to do it ? Just asking for education purposes before i get yelled at.
Linda Johnson That is a great point! In my case, despite the absence of pain, there was fatigue, decreased endura ... Read more
Linda Johnson That is a great point! In my case, despite the absence of pain, there was fatigue, decreased endurance, and the muscle/rib tenderness to remind me that I had open heart surgery!
Richard Munson That is good to know. I recall trying to perform an activity beyond my pain threshold and wincing fro ... Read more
Richard Munson That is good to know. I recall trying to perform an activity beyond my pain threshold and wincing from the pain. My first thought was omg i did too much, its all over. It kept me at bay for sure.
Hi everyone! I will travel from Zagreb to Leipzig (900km) for my surgery. I am thinking about my return travel, car or plane. How long before you can go on ...Read more
Hi everyone! I will travel from Zagreb to Leipzig (900km) for my surgery. I am thinking about my return travel, car or plane. How long before you can go on a plane ride after heart surgery? Or car ride (cca 9 hours) is better? Thank you very much!
Howard Powders Hi Klara! I have read some folks ride in a plane 2 weeks after valve surgery. I'm sure not everyone.... Read more
Howard Powders Hi Klara! I have read some folks ride in a plane 2 weeks after valve surgery. I'm sure not everyone. Your young age? Perhaps! Good luck!
Klara Čičić Thank you Howard :) I'm leaning towards car ride...but we'll see
Neal Syverson I was cleared for travel 5 days after robotic mitral valve surgery. I had a 4.5 hour drive home. C ... Read more
Neal Syverson I was cleared for travel 5 days after robotic mitral valve surgery. I had a 4.5 hour drive home. Check with your surgeon. Your situation may be different.
Neal Syverson Keep in mind that if you drive you will need to take a break every hour to get out and walk around to ... Read more
Neal Syverson Keep in mind that if you drive you will need to take a break every hour to get out and walk around to prevent blood clots. That will make for a very long trip. Maybe you could do it in two days? My trip home was 4.5 hours and it was about all I could take. Even though I was cleared for travel it was still very uncomfortable. I see a flight for you should be something like 3.5 hours. I think I would lean toward that.
Richard Munson Wow, i had exactly the same surgery in boston. It was a success and so far a fib has not returned eit ... Read more
Richard Munson Wow, i had exactly the same surgery in boston. It was a success and so far a fib has not returned either. My surgeon is Ukrainian and my grandparents were born in germany so we have that in common. Good luck.
I am always anxious about my next echo, but I guess that's something we heart warriors must learn to live with. Huge thanks to Adam and this wonderful and funny community for being there for me. Can't imagine going through all of that without your help and support.