6 weeks post op and while I have had many more good days than hard days, today was definitely a hard day.
The hard days tend to show up during transitions. ...Read more
6 weeks post op and while I have had many more good days than hard days, today was definitely a hard day.
The hard days tend to show up during transitions. The first day or two in the hospital after surgery were hard. The first 3-4 days home from the hospital were hard. The first time driving after surgery was hard.
This week I started cardiac rehab workouts and transitioning back to my office job...in.the.same.week! I'm also trying to get back to a normal sleep schedule and my body is revolting. It wasn't the plan to start all of that but here we are.
More physically tired than I expected, mentally exhausted trying to get caught up on what I missed over the last 6 weeks and socially stretched and overwhelmed for my introvert self.
Today was a hard day...This week may be a hard week but God continues to show up even when the days and weeks are long and hard. Sleep and rest also help too!
Kim Owen Congratulations on your achievements. Best wishes.
Rose Madura Yes, the journey is sometimes one step forward and two steps back. It seems like you are doing well ... Read more
Rose Madura Yes, the journey is sometimes one step forward and two steps back. It seems like you are doing well at 6 weeks out. Take it one day at a time and do listen to your body. Best wishes for a great day tomorrow.
Shannon Gray You’ve got this! Prayers the hard days ease.
Rita Savelis I hear you Lindsay. Transitions are hard. And there are hard days after OHS. They come and go. Take c ... Read more
Rita Savelis I hear you Lindsay. Transitions are hard. And there are hard days after OHS. They come and go. Take care of yourself. Your body has been through a lot. 6 weeks is very early.
Kirk Bepler The good and bad days do come and go, you will reach the point where sometimes you will forget that y ... Read more
Kirk Bepler The good and bad days do come and go, you will reach the point where sometimes you will forget that you even had surgery. But I will have to say your in cardiac rehab and and getting back into work, that's pretty good! Congratulate yourself on that after only 6 weeks out, you will do well and things will get back to normal in time..
I hit 5 weeks post-op on Monday. Had my follow-up echo and surgeon visit on Tuesday and he seemed very happy with my progress and said the echo looked good! ...Read more
I hit 5 weeks post-op on Monday. Had my follow-up echo and surgeon visit on Tuesday and he seemed very happy with my progress and said the echo looked good! Weaning off most of my medicines, no more weight lifting restriction and I can start transitioning back to work. I go see my cardiologist on Monday to start follow-ups with her. Had my first post-op chiropractic adjustment and counseling session and those both went very well. I also went to cardiac rehab orientation today.
Now I am very much for cardiac rehab and the whole time was like "Sign me up". Even if the main benefit I will receive is peace of mind being monitored as I get back into exercising. I called my insurance company today to see how it would be covered and I have to pay a $30 copay (after my deductible is met) each session and the program is 3 sessions per week for 8-12 weeks. That is $90 per week and total out of pocket cost of $720-$1,080. This is also on top of the $6,000 I already paid out of pocket for appointments and tests and surgery. Now I know this is such a minuscule amount compared to what my insurance company actually paid for my surgery but I have had a very blessed recovery and it just kills me to pay that much for basically a monitored gym program. I still plan on participating in cardiac rehab because I do believe I can benefit some especially in the beginning but I probably will not "graduate" from the program.
This brings me to my questions:
1. How long did you participate in cardiac rehab?
2. What were benefits you experienced besides peace of mind with heart monitoring?
3. Would you say 2-4 weeks seems reasonable given my age and what my recovery has been like up to this point?
Thank you everyone for your encouragement and kind words along the journey! This site really has made a big difference in my recovery!
Adam Pick Go Lindsay! Amazing it's already been 5 weeks. Dr. Gerdisch is a rock star. Great post with importa ... Read more
Adam Pick Go Lindsay! Amazing it's already been 5 weeks. Dr. Gerdisch is a rock star. Great post with important considerations! So you know, I was in cardiac rehab for 2 months. I had to pay as well. However... The benefits, for me, were overwhelming favorable - physical, social and emotional benefits. To your point, maybe you try it for 2 weeks and see how it goes. Do you have to pay for a package or something like that? Keep on tickin!
Mike Roskowinski Good Job Lindsay it looks like you are doing well. I agree with Adam that maybe you should give it a ... Read more
Mike Roskowinski Good Job Lindsay it looks like you are doing well. I agree with Adam that maybe you should give it a try for a little while to see how you heart reacts to working out. I worked out 5 days a week and played sports prior to my surgery and I felt it was beneficial to know how hard I could push myself. You don't want to get to the gym and push yourself to hard where it has a bad affect on you. I did it 3 days a week for 3 weeks and I was done.
Lindsay Rouse Thank you both! I definitely agree and am thinking 2-4 weeks will probably be what I need to push my ... Read more
Lindsay Rouse Thank you both! I definitely agree and am thinking 2-4 weeks will probably be what I need to push myself yet know my limits. Dr. Gerdisch, Cindy, and the whole Franciscan team have been AMAZING!! Words are so inadequate to how grateful I feel.
Barbara Wood Hi Lindsay, I had the same problem - a high copay. I did cardiac rehab with the ekg leads for 3- 4 we ... Read more
Barbara Wood Hi Lindsay, I had the same problem - a high copay. I did cardiac rehab with the ekg leads for 3- 4 weeks ( I posted this same question & got lots of good advice - you can click on my name & then scroll down to find the post if you like). I then switched to a program at the hospital that was much cheaper & still was monitored by nurses, but without ekg leads & did that for a few months. I had to get my cardiologist s okay before the hospital let me do this. This worked put great, I felt secure going into the less monitored program after doing a few weeks in cardiac rehab. Cardiac rehab is so helpful...best wishes!
Lindsay Rouse Thank you so much Barbara! I knew I couldn't have been the first person to ask. Your post and those ... Read more
Lindsay Rouse Thank you so much Barbara! I knew I couldn't have been the first person to ask. Your post and those that commented was extremely helpful!
I'm 4 weeks post-op and feeling pretty good! I've been released to drive so I've been getting more out and about. I still get some nerve pain especially in ...Read more
I'm 4 weeks post-op and feeling pretty good! I've been released to drive so I've been getting more out and about. I still get some nerve pain especially in the evenings and I still am fairly tired if I've had a big day. I'm starting to think about transition plans back to work and cardiac rehab over the few weeks. I've reduced a lot of medicines that I was taking and am hopeful to get off all of them soon.
I even had someone at church yesterday ask if I even had my surgery yet because I'm doing so well. What a gift and testimony!!
There are times that I think "That was it?" But then there are a lot of other times that I do not want to go through this again at all if I can help it!
Skipper Kagamaster Thank you for the update; it's very helpful to see those on the other side of surgery doing so well. ... Read more
Skipper Kagamaster Thank you for the update; it's very helpful to see those on the other side of surgery doing so well. Prayers for your continued recovery!
Jennifer Winslow I don't know how I've missed seeing your previous posts so I had to play catch up today. I am so imp ... Read more
Jennifer Winslow I don't know how I've missed seeing your previous posts so I had to play catch up today. I am so impressed with how well you have done!!!! I can only hope and pray that I do half as good as you. All the best for the rest of your recovery!!!
Arlene VanNorstrand What an inspiration you are. Thank you for sharing your journey has helped me like so many others on ... Read more
Arlene VanNorstrand What an inspiration you are. Thank you for sharing your journey has helped me like so many others on here. My family is wonderful and supportive but when you have people who have been there and done that it is priceless support.
Susan Lynn I'm glad to read you're doing so well, Lindsay. The fatigue and nerve pain can last for awhile, but ... Read more
Susan Lynn I'm glad to read you're doing so well, Lindsay. The fatigue and nerve pain can last for awhile, but if you're looking back and saying, 'That was it' - you're doing just fine at 4 weeks! Continued success! ❤
Mike Roskowinski Awesome Lindsay. Glad that you are able to get back to life. It is hard for those first few weeks c ... Read more
Mike Roskowinski Awesome Lindsay. Glad that you are able to get back to life. It is hard for those first few weeks cause you start feeling better but cant drive or work. I was really bored just waiting for stuff to do. I think I walked my dog 3 times a day. Keep it up you are on the right track!
It's hard to believe sometimes I am two weeks post-op. Sometimes it doesn't feel that long because I kind of lost a week being in the hospital and foggy brained ...Read more
It's hard to believe sometimes I am two weeks post-op. Sometimes it doesn't feel that long because I kind of lost a week being in the hospital and foggy brained but other times it feels like it's so far in the past.
My pain is definitely reducing. It's not constant anymore and I would say it's just mostly sore when I'm moving around or if I'm sleeping on my side/front.
I'm so grateful my surgeon used the Sterna-Lock Blue on my sternum because I think that is what prevented a lot of restrictions such as sleeping positions. My surgeon said I could sleep on my side/stomach whenever I could tolerate it and so far it's been better and worth the minor pain than sleeping in a recliner.
My first follow-up is this coming Thursday and I'm hoping to be released to start driving again and possibly even start Cardiac Rehab. I have no idea if they ever start Cardiac Rehab this early but I feel like I'm ready to do a little more stamina-wise while keeping my vitals supervised.
I'm starting to do more field trips and yesterday I got to go to church and it was a wonderful homecoming! It was a big day and I definitely was tired last night and even today but overall it was what my spirit and soul needed!
I'm so thankful for parents that support me and my requests right now that I'm so dependent. The support system surrounding me has been somewhat overwhelming and unexpected in the best possible way. I definitely am very humbled and honestly see this surgery as such a gift that I will spend my life trying to honor in the right way because words just can't describe my thankfulness!
It has been 1 week post OHS today and I honestly can't believe it.
I'm still doing well. I feel like my heart flutter has subsided for the most part and ...Read more
It has been 1 week post OHS today and I honestly can't believe it.
I'm still doing well. I feel like my heart flutter has subsided for the most part and last night I was able to sleep in a bed (on my side) instead of recliner.
As for pain, I would say that I am constantly at a 4-5 on the pain level scale. No narcotics does not mean no pain. Today I got kind of emotional because I was just tired of being constantly sore and tired of not getting great sleep/rest.
All my vitals are still looking good and I am experiencing a little brain fog. I feel very with it during the day but then the next day, it feels like some things were deja-vu or I have to check if my memory is true or a dream.
Is it normal to still have a sore throat after intubation at this point?
I had a couple visitors today and got a card in the mail so that was nice and helped pull me out of my funk.
Joe Tarango Congratulations Lindsay! Prayers for you to keep getting stronger. I noticed I have memory fog too so ... Read more
Joe Tarango Congratulations Lindsay! Prayers for you to keep getting stronger. I noticed I have memory fog too so that seems normal.
Pamela McKay Great job! Sounds like you are making huge gains.
Meredith Bray Yay for 1 week! Here's some tips to help with the pain - 1) Make sure you have excellent posture when ... Read more
Meredith Bray Yay for 1 week! Here's some tips to help with the pain - 1) Make sure you have excellent posture when you are standing and walking. Walk like Miss America! Head up, shoulders back, as tall as you can be. Your core muscles took a beating, but now is not the time to baby them :) and #2) Make sure your head/neck/arms are supported when you are resting, especially in a chair or recliner. Use a travel pillow for your neck, and wedge some throw pillows or bed pillows under your arms to take some weight off your shoulders. I found once I did this, I was able to relax a little more and get some really good restful sleep (albeit only 2-3 hours at a time).
Keep walking, and keep using your torture device/inspirometer!
Meredith
Clearwater, FL
Marie Myers it Is a bit unusual to still have a sore throat at this point. Was the sore throat more severe immedi ... Read more
Marie Myers it Is a bit unusual to still have a sore throat at this point. Was the sore throat more severe immediately post op?
Barbara Wood Sounds like you are doing really well for 1 week! I had a sore throat for a few weeks I think after m ... Read more
Barbara Wood Sounds like you are doing really well for 1 week! I had a sore throat for a few weeks I think after my surgery. It wasn't exactly sore like the classic "hurts to swallow "sore throat but an uncomfortable feeling that hung on for weeks. I figured it was abrasion from the breathing tube, but I never ran it by my doc. Best wishes Lindsay!
Susan Lynn Lindsay - Glad you're doing well! Hope you're on a speedy road to recovery! Remember - Walk. Rest. R ... Read more
Susan Lynn Lindsay - Glad you're doing well! Hope you're on a speedy road to recovery! Remember - Walk. Rest. Repeat. You'll be back to great adventures before you know it! All the best!
What a whirlwind the last 5 days have been! We checked in at the hospital and they called me back to prep. They gave me some medicine and got my IV started. ...Read more
What a whirlwind the last 5 days have been! We checked in at the hospital and they called me back to prep. They gave me some medicine and got my IV started. Before I knew it they had my "entourage" back with me to chat, pray, give hugs and "See You Laters". My parents had a wonderful support team with them. My pastor and his wife came at 5:30 just to pray with me. One of my best friends got to the hospital before we did and helped encourage my parents to eat, rest, etc. One of my mom's best friends and basically a 2nd mom for me came and sat with my parents around 7:30am. At 6:30am, I was wheeled into the OR and every single person commented on my nails that I just had done. They were asking me questions as we were getting settled and I don't remember another thing until they were waking me up and bringing my family in. I don't remember seeing a lot but I remember talking around me and guys...
Dr. Gerdisch and his team REPAIRED my native valve!! The best case scenario! And Dr. Gerdisch kept saying it was quite an unique and fascinating case. He even videoed part of it and wants to show me...lol
I remember gagging on the breathing tube once and then trying to swallow with it in and then I remember the nurses talking about if I was ready to remove the breathing tube and I just kept nodding my head up and down because I felt very ready to have it removed!
I don't remember much else from Day 1 except that I kept thinking it should be later than it was. Day 2, they weaned the anesthesia and I began waking up and I had some double-vision but then all of a sudden, I could focus clearly and felt sore but awake! It was nice getting to hear some stories from the previous day. Day 2 was also New Year's Eve and I got to move out of the ICU into the Progressive Care Unit.
Day 2, I had some breakthrough pain however my surgeon is on the board for Cardiac ERAS so nothing stronger than Tylenol or Toradol. Which I honestly appreciate because I feel much more like myself so much faster! Day 2 I also got a migraine which sucked because I was already maxed on the medicines I could take for pain and they wouldn't give me my migraine medicine until we approved it through the doctor the next day (even though it was on my list but the pharmacy didn't have it on hand). We finally got the migraine under control on Day 3. I also got my chest tube and one of my three IV's removed. Day 3 I started making some progress in PT and walking.
Day 4 I walked up and down steps in PT and had the big IV in my neck removed. I saw my surgeon on rounds and he said we would try for discharge the next day! Day 5 was Discharge Day!! It was busy and I'm exhausted but I'm settled in with my parents and tomorrow I'm hoping to take a full shower!
So far so good! A little sore, a lot of medicines, feeling very grateful and blessed by all the family and friend support and wonderful care from Dr. Gerdisch, his staff, and all the nursing staff at the hospital!
Next is home health and PT then Cardiac Rehab. Bring on 2020! I'm ready!
Lisa Leake You are amazing Lindsay. Glad to hear you are recovering well.
Susan Lynn Lindsay - Wow! Sounds like you're doing great! It is an eventful few days in the hospital - now tha ... Read more
Susan Lynn Lindsay - Wow! Sounds like you're doing great! It is an eventful few days in the hospital - now that you're home, it's going to be a lot of sleeping, walking, and binge watching television (probably). Keep the showers warm and short - they can drop your bp if they're too hot or long. You're on the road to recovery and this surgery is in the rear view mirror! All the best!
Catie B Hooray to getting through all this and for being released! Your team sounds awesome. Keep on healing. ... Read more
Catie B Hooray to getting through all this and for being released! Your team sounds awesome. Keep on healing...
Adam Pick Woo-Whoo!!! Great to hear the progress you are making Lindsay!!!!
Beth Majerszky Lindsay - sounds like you’re doing really well. Look out 2020, you are ready!
Heather Heap Keep up the strength. I am praying for you every day. I got released today from the hospital today. ... Read more
Heather Heap Keep up the strength. I am praying for you every day. I got released today from the hospital today. So relieved and so anxious. We have got this. :) Use the spirometer. It provided me much relief.
Chris Calhoun ahh.........sounds very familiar to me!!!! and the best part is that it's going to get better and bet ... Read more
Chris Calhoun ahh.........sounds very familiar to me!!!! and the best part is that it's going to get better and better!!
I am less than 12 hours away from aortic repair/replacement surgery and I can actually say I'm quite at peace and ready. These last two weeks since my surgery ...Read more
I am less than 12 hours away from aortic repair/replacement surgery and I can actually say I'm quite at peace and ready. These last two weeks since my surgery has been postponed have been slow, chill, and mellow. I am thankful for the last two weeks because I think I have had time to process emotions I didn't even know I needed to process. I have been able to spend time with my family over the holidays, have realized my support community is much wider than I ever believed or felt worthy of and I have been covered in prayer.
So tomorrow is the day! My parents and I are staying in a hotel close to the hospital tonight and I have to check in at 5pm with surgery start at 6:30am. I'm sure it will be a few days before I can log in and post again but I will see you on the recovery side!
Let's do this!!
Susan Lynn Lindsay- All the best, tomorrow! Enjoy the one minute nap - it seems like it happens that fast! T ... Read more
Susan Lynn Lindsay- All the best, tomorrow! Enjoy the one minute nap - it seems like it happens that fast! The world's greatest ice chips are on the menu tomorrow night! We'll be here awaiting your good news! ❤
Lindsay Rouse Thank you Susan!! For ALL your support and encouragement!!
Beth Majerszky Thinking of you Lindsay and so glad the 2 week delay brought such peace and support. Will look forwar ... Read more
Beth Majerszky Thinking of you Lindsay and so glad the 2 week delay brought such peace and support. Will look forward to your next post.
My surgery has been rescheduled for December 30th.
I've spent this weekend processing the many emotions for my surgeon and his family and just all the changes ...Read more
My surgery has been rescheduled for December 30th.
I've spent this weekend processing the many emotions for my surgeon and his family and just all the changes to the upcoming weeks.
I will go back to work tomorrow to work this week and next. I know there is a greater purpose to all of this and I still trust that God is in control.
Catie B So sorry for the delay and all the emotional ramifications, Lindsay! Glad you're back on the schedul ... Read more
Catie B So sorry for the delay and all the emotional ramifications, Lindsay! Glad you're back on the schedule and wishing you the best in your journey.
Susan Lynn Lindsay - No one would wish to be rescheduled but there's actually a big advantage to having your sur ... Read more
Susan Lynn Lindsay - No one would wish to be rescheduled but there's actually a big advantage to having your surgery on December 30. Most people don't have scheduled surgeries around the holidays, so you'll probably be getting tons of individual attention. Plus, you will have a great New Year's story to tell every year. The only thing I would tell you if your health care coverage from work is picking up the tab - check to see if your deductible starts over on January 1. You want to be sure you don't have to satisfy it for 2019 and 2020 because your stay is going to overlap two years. Many company plans run on fiscal years, so it may be a moot point. ❤
Sean Coast Mine's scheduled for Friday, just before Christmas. I wish they'd reschedule. I mean, what if they' ... Read more
Sean Coast Mine's scheduled for Friday, just before Christmas. I wish they'd reschedule. I mean, what if they're all celebrating the holidays at that point?
Rose Madura Glad you have a new date. Enjoy the holidays. You'll start out the new year recovering.
Lorraine Mobley On the bright side, it's still in this calendar year which means no new deductible! Best wishes!
Ken M Lindsay I think I read somewhere in your journal your doc is recommending a mechanical valve. From my ... Read more
Ken M Lindsay I think I read somewhere in your journal your doc is recommending a mechanical valve. From my own experience I had a porcine valve implanted in 1984 at age 34. At the time because I was relatively young and was a skier and very active they though it would be a better alternative in particular no coumadin therapy. However the valve only lasted 10 years and I received a St. Jude's Mechanical valve in 1994 and still have it 25 years later and have been on Coumadin since. Along the way I developed an aneurysm and had another OHS in January of 2007. It's amazing what modern medicine can do. I'm still active, ski, hike, play pickleball 3 times a week and work part time. I wish you the very best.
Lindsay Rouse Thank you all for your encouragement and for being an outlet along this journey. I'm definitely chan ... Read more
Lindsay Rouse Thank you all for your encouragement and for being an outlet along this journey. I'm definitely changing gears and trying to get into the holiday spirit!
My deductible does start over Jan 1 and I was already planning on meeting it both in 2019 and 2020 with follow-ups and cardiac rehab expenses. But I am going to check with the insurance company and make sure the crossover won't cause any issues since I'll still be in the hospital on January 1.
Sean - Heart is so specialized, I'm sure you will be in good hands even over Christmas!! Praying for you on Friday!!
Ken - Yes, my surgeon will do OnX mechanical valve if he has to end up replacing at this surgery because of my age. He said the bioprosthesis (bovine or porcine) would only last 6-8 years in me due to my age and activity. He also said blood thinner med management is way easier these days with an at home monitor. So I feel comfortable and definitely trust his decision!
Pamela McKay Lindsay, best of luck and prayers for you and all the others going thru this. The emotions do get rol ... Read more
Pamela McKay Lindsay, best of luck and prayers for you and all the others going thru this. The emotions do get rolling up and down but a God is right beside you the entire time. Blessings and may you have a healthy 2020!
Surgery was cancelled due to a sudden death in my surgeon's family. My heart is broken...for so many reasons.
Susan Lynn Oh no! That's terrible. Stay positive - I'm sure it will be quickly rescheduled.
Lindsay Rouse I honestly feel so heartbroken for my surgeon who is going through this. Yes, I'm disappointed and I ... Read more
Lindsay Rouse I honestly feel so heartbroken for my surgeon who is going through this. Yes, I'm disappointed and I feel bad because this changes a lot of plans for a lot of people (friends, family, work, etc) but I can't imagine what my surgeon must be going through.
Susan Lynn Lindsay - It certainly forces us to keep perspective when we think our own challenges are burdensome. ... Read more
Susan Lynn Lindsay - It certainly forces us to keep perspective when we think our own challenges are burdensome. Your surgeon, and all the surgeons who have shared their expertise and skill to restore our heart functions remain in my prayers. Hang in there. Your day will be here, soon. ❤
Rose Madura I had a similar experience when I was having some dental surgery. The dental assistant that was goi ... Read more
Rose Madura I had a similar experience when I was having some dental surgery. The dental assistant that was going to assist the surgeon had a sudden death in her family. Her 16 year old brother was killed in an accident. My surgery was postponed for a couple weeks. With my heart surgery, it too was postponed due to the surgeon having to operate on someone on an emergency basis. That postponement was horrible for me because I was psyched up for it, then big letdown. But, I got though it all and so will you.
Marie Myers Got a curve ball, there! Stay positive, and know that when the time is right, your surgery will happ ... Read more
Marie Myers Got a curve ball, there! Stay positive, and know that when the time is right, your surgery will happen.
I hope you just sang that like the song from the 80's!
I am one week away and it's going to be a busy one.
Today I had a dentist appointment and I stop ...Read more
I hope you just sang that like the song from the 80's!
I am one week away and it's going to be a busy one.
Today I had a dentist appointment and I stop taking certain medications. Tomorrow is my pre-op appointment at the hospital and then a CTA. Thursday is oral surgery to get my dental clearance and then Friday is my last counseling session before surgery.
Tonight was special though...I went to my last bible study for a bit and I go to church about 45 minutes away from where I will be recovering with my parents so I know it could be several weeks before I'm able to go to church in person again and see some of these wonderful women. They took the last several minutes of our study to pray over me tonight and just loved on me. Even when they have their own stuff going on, they remembered me. I am so humbled and grateful for this community of women surrounding me.
You see, one of my prayers as of late has not been for my physical healing and recovery but my emotional and mental recovery. God has made it abundantly clear that He is with me through the physical surgery and recovery. Honestly though, I'm nervous about feeling isolated or lonely during the recovery. I won't be alone as I will have my parents and family around during the holidays and I am so thankful that they are committed to helping me recover. But a girl needs her friends too!
I've tried to take Adam's advice and make sure my support people know what I need from them during this time especially if they ask and I just tell them the only thing I need is themselves. Visitors, friends, family, quality time.
In other areas, I'm gathering my "communication plan" for my family of notifications that need to be done the day of surgery. Getting my Spotify playlist together that I want playing in my room 24/7...lol...I'm starting to pack and gather items that I will be needing at my parents over the next several weeks. My parents and I are also planning on staying at a hotel closer to the hospital especially since there is the potential for bad weather this next week.
It's getting closer and in several ways, I feel ready and at peace...in other ways I just don't really know what to expect but sooner than later, I'll be on the recovery side!!
Susan Lynn Lindsay - I absolutely sang the song! Sounds like you're checking all the big action items off the l ... Read more
Susan Lynn Lindsay - I absolutely sang the song! Sounds like you're checking all the big action items off the list. Good for you!! Don't worry about the process - your surgeon, team, and nurses will take care of everything you need until discharge day. When you get home, you'll have your parents to make sure you eat, take your meds (if any), and get your periodic walking and spirometer exercises done. For me, I felt good after surgery - just tired. All I can say is keep the showers short and warm, not hot. They can drop your bp. Also, walk, rest, repeat. They're the keys to recovery. You'll be surprised how much stronger you'll feel in a couple weeks. All the best!
Deepak Khanka Lindsay, I wish you all the best. Spk closer to time
Robb Smith "It's the final countdown!!!!....." (Totally singing that right now..... my co-workers are getting an ... Read more
Robb Smith "It's the final countdown!!!!....." (Totally singing that right now..... my co-workers are getting annoyed! lol)
So I have officially entered the pre-op time zone and it is speeding along like a high speed train! I could focus on the negatives and honestly, I just erased ...Read more
So I have officially entered the pre-op time zone and it is speeding along like a high speed train! I could focus on the negatives and honestly, I just erased what I started writing because it sounded so negative. In reality, I am thankful beyond words.
God continues to show up in the little areas - I got some good news about my finances during my time off work and thank the Lord we are required to get a dental clearance before surgery that caught something I only would have known about through an x-ray.
Between staying busy at work, trying to get paperwork and appointments completed, planning ahead for Christmas, and moving in with my parents for 2-3 months, I haven't had much time to process my feelings or emotions this week. But it will catch up to me on the weekend. And I will process, and feel, and maybe cry a little. And that is ok. Jesus cried too even when He knew Lazarus would be resurrected.
There are still so many unknowns and while my flesh wants to quit, my spirit and heart are focused on my Creator...my loving Heavenly Father that formed me in my mother's womb. Who knew I had this defect before I did and who will use it for His glory.
It kind of reminds me of when Simon Peter walked on water. When he kept his eyes on Jesus, he had enough faith, hope, and trust to walk on water. When he took his eyes off Jesus, he began to sink. If I think too much about the details of what I'm about to walk through, I can feel my anxiety rise over my faith and trust. If I keep my focus on Jesus through worship, prayer, and the Word, the miracles He has already performed, and is going to perform through this, that is the only way I get peace.
There is a fine line between being informed and "knowing" too much. I need to be informed but will continue to trust God with the things I don't need to know.
shareinea Hubbard Lindsay, you got this. The Lord is with you and will guide you in making the right decisions. Keep fo ... Read more
shareinea Hubbard Lindsay, you got this. The Lord is with you and will guide you in making the right decisions. Keep focused on Him.
Just curious, have you researched the Ross Procedure?
shareinea Hubbard Im getting ready for my Bicuspid Aortic Valve replacement also, and am scheduled for my second opinio ... Read more
shareinea Hubbard Im getting ready for my Bicuspid Aortic Valve replacement also, and am scheduled for my second opinion next Wed and may have my surgery next Friday. I'm trying to get all my questions together too. I have researched the ross procedure and am curious to see if it is an option for me. I have been a very active, healthy living with this since birth and noticing changes these last few months. My activity has really decreased I'm tired all the time. I miss running and rowing and just want to energy back. Anyway, I wish you the best and will keep you in my prayers. God is Good!
Lindsay Rouse Hi Shareinea! I have researched the Ross procedure, especially after reading Adam's book, however, I ... Read more
Lindsay Rouse Hi Shareinea! I have researched the Ross procedure, especially after reading Adam's book, however, I don't think it's really an option for me since we are going to try and repair my native valve first. Also, it seems my surgeon feels mechanical would be best for any replacement due to my age because any bioprosthesis (for aortic valve or pulmonary valve) will not last as long as the mechanical. Everyone is different and has a different situation so you should definitely look into any and all options and ask your surgeon why one procedure would be better than another for your case. I'll be praying for you!! We will soon be on the recovery side!!
Today was my consult with my surgeon, Dr. Marc Gerdisch. It did not go at all as I expected it too, but God showed up and showed out!
I honestly cannot ...Read more
Today was my consult with my surgeon, Dr. Marc Gerdisch. It did not go at all as I expected it too, but God showed up and showed out!
I honestly cannot say enough good things about Dr. Gerdisch and his team in my initial visit today. Not only were they friendly and personable but they were also sensitive to my feelings and did not rush me through the conversation. I wasn't expecting to meet his nurse practitioner but Cindy is just as great and I'm so thankful to have such a wonderful team on my side.
The first thing Dr. Gerdisch said when he walked in was that I had a little bit of a complex and unique situation. Now I'm an Enneagram 4 so it's not uncommon for me to feel different from everyone else but just sometimes I would like to feel normal and ordinary...LOL
He then went on to explain that my bicuspid aortic valve is a type 2 which means that there is a second fusion causing the narrowing and not the calcification. It was great news that my valve is actually in decent shape so he was really torn on if replacement would be the best path for me. He sat there and said "I'm trying to think if you were my daughter, what would I do or what would be best." Isn't that an amazing surgeon?
He ultimately gave me three options to choose from.
1. No surgery right now, keep monitoring stenosis, would still have symptoms and I may have another couple years before needing replacement but obviously no guarantee.
2. Valve replacement and aortic root enlargement - Mechanical OnX valve and no option for a tissue valve.
3. Possible aortic valve REPAIR by creating a "pure" bicuspid aortic valve keeping my native valve intact and postponing valve replacement surgery for several additional years, maybe even 10-15 years. Symptoms would be alleviated as well.
Ya'll...He said the word REPAIR for a BICUSPID AORTIC VALVE!!!
For those that don't know, if you Google treatment for severe aortic stenosis for a bicuspid valve, your search will most likely turn up aortic valve replacement...there is usually no mention of a repair possibility. If I was with any other surgeon, the word "repair" would never even be a thought! We have been praying for a big miracle and I wholly believe this is an answer to that prayer!
Another wonderful thing about Dr. Gerdisch is that not only is he confident that repair could be a viable option for me but he is wise enough to not force it if he opens me up and feels differently once he's in surgery. If he looks at my valve and doesn't think it would be best for me afterall or even if he does the repair but doesn't get the result he is looking for, he will just go ahead and replace the valve as discussed in Option 2.
He told me it was ultimately my decision and that he wanted to make sure I was comfortable with the path and that if I felt strongly about having surgery or not having surgery, that I could choose. I advised him that while not having surgery would be ideal, the fact that I would still have symptoms made me nervous that I would not be aware if they were getting worse as they gradually progress. Also, I wasn't sure that it would really give me the extra time that would be beneficial. I could end up needing replacement within months or even a year. I just didn't feel that was the best choice for me.
I told him I loved the possibility of a repair that would alleviate my symptoms and could potentially give me several more years before replacement. That would be my choice even with the understanding I could wake up to a replacement instead.
I chose open heart surgery.
Some may say I'm a little crazy for making that choice when I had an "out" but I firmly believe God has ordered my steps to this point and I believe He is extending an invitation for me to trust deeply and walk by faith as He orchestrates a miracle before our eyes.
Adam Pick Lindsay, I am so glad to hear you connected with Dr. Gerdisch. So you know, Dr. Gerdisch was one of ... Read more
Adam Pick Lindsay, I am so glad to hear you connected with Dr. Gerdisch. So you know, Dr. Gerdisch was one of the earliest and most active supporters of this website. Through his educational contribution at HVS, Dr. Gerdisch has helped many, many, many patients learn about their disease and their treatment options. And, he has successfully treated bunches of patients. You are in great hands with Dr. Gerdisch and the Franciscan team. Plus, the opportunity for a repair? Bonus!! Here's Dr. Gerdisch addressing the benefits of aortic valve repair. https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/haart-annuloplasty-ring.php
Learn 7 important facts about the HAART Annuloplasty Ring Device for aortic regurgitation in this surgeon round-table discussion.
Lindsay Rouse Thank you so much for your support Adam! I had already read your book so your name and the HVS commu ... Read more
Lindsay Rouse Thank you so much for your support Adam! I had already read your book so your name and the HVS community definitely came up! I definitely feel very much at peace and blessed knowing Dr. Gerdisch will be operating on me. He did not mention the HAART Annuloplasty Ring as part of the repair but it looks like it could be a possibility! Thank you for all you do with this website and HVS! This community has already impacted me in more ways than I even thought possible!
Catie B The repair option sounds fabulous. So glad that may be a real option!
Hi All! I'm gathering questions for my first surgeon consultation on November 26th. At this appointment I believe we will be discussing my surgical options, ...Read more
Hi All! I'm gathering questions for my first surgeon consultation on November 26th. At this appointment I believe we will be discussing my surgical options, valve options, confirming tentative surgery date and possibly scheduling pre-op testing. I will be having aortic valve replacement surgery. If you have had this surgery, what is one question that you wished you would have asked ahead of time? What is a question that maybe isn't as common or that I may not think about asking? Thanks for your input!
Civita Fahey HI Lindsay, my question is could it do be done less minimally invasive meaning through a smaller inci ... Read more
Civita Fahey HI Lindsay, my question is could it do be done less minimally invasive meaning through a smaller incision. One doctor felt he couldn't do that and then I found the one that could . its really a matter of if they have the experience of doing the surgery through a smaller incision. The one I chose had done them with a smaller one since residency so he was pretty experienced. Therefore, I have an incision that is about 4" instead of 8". Also my big issue was type of valve. I was 56 at the time of surgery and right in that hole where they feel the mechanical was the best choice but a tissue wasn't out of the question. I had a long talk with him and we discussed the risk of a second surgery which is probably inevitable at my age with a tissue vs being on a blood thinner for probably 20-30 years ( hoping the Lord gives me a long life). So my doc felt that the risk for me was higher with the blood thinner. I chose the tissue valve and hoping that the advancement in the TAVR will not make me have another open surgery, but if I have to he said the risk is still about 2%. So, these are common ones, but, I you need to see what is comfortable and for you. You will need to be happy with your choice. I don't think I had any questions that I wished I had asked before hand. Between my research and this wonderful community, I went in with a list and my surgeon was happy to answer all . I even asked him how many he had done and he said he hoped I would ask that.. most people don't.. I wanted to know he had been doing this awhile ( but he was chief of cardiothoracic surgery at a highly ranked Boston hospital) so I had assumed that, but you know what happens when we assume. So, write them down and bring a list.. any more ? ask away.. my prayers are with you.
Bradley Dunn I asked the first surgeon I talked to how often he does them and he seemed offended. I knew then he w ... Read more
Bradley Dunn I asked the first surgeon I talked to how often he does them and he seemed offended. I knew then he wasn't cutting on me. I also thought about surgery other than full sternotomy and thought I really don't even want an experienced guy struggling to see and do what he has to do!!
I also asked, "How do you prevent yourself from having a bad day!" Everyone has a bad day now and then right?
another good one, "If you were having this surgery who would you like to perform it on you?" There is an entire company based around this one question.
Nicole DuPont Once I decided to go with a tissue valve, I spent a lot of time on this site and others gathering inf ... Read more
Nicole DuPont Once I decided to go with a tissue valve, I spent a lot of time on this site and others gathering info and deciding which one was best, so I had expected to have a conversation with him about the types of tissue valves to choose from. But as soon as I mentioned it, he said that he does one tissue valve, the Edwards Magna Ease. He said if I wanted to explore the others he would find out which ones would be available, but that was his recommendation and he had done over a thousand of them. I asked about the newer valve from Edwards but he said he’d had reliably excellent results with the one he performed the most. I decided to go with him doing the valve he suggested because he has a great reputation. If I’d felt strongly about the type of valve, I could have gone with a different hospital and surgeon I guess, but I trusted his experience.
Mike Roskowinski I think I had all the questions that I had answered before surgery. I spent a lot of time searching ... Read more
Mike Roskowinski I think I had all the questions that I had answered before surgery. I spent a lot of time searching for what questions to ask. I got a lot of help from people on this site with the questions that they had asked. I researched my surgeons and found out what other people thought of them. If I find my list of questions I will give you them. My main thing is that I know that I am a very active person and wanted to know what would change after the surgery and if I would still be able to live a normal life.
Tom McDonald Hi Lindsay,
I Had my BAV surgery done back in June. I"m doing well and feeling great! You will to! ... Read more
Tom McDonald Hi Lindsay,
I Had my BAV surgery done back in June. I"m doing well and feeling great! You will to!
Here is a list of questions that I asked my Surgeon. Also Check out STS.org ( Society of Thoracic Surgeons) Lots of good info and You want to see your surgeon name show up. You can search his/her name on the site. Good Luck in your Journey ahead and I hope this helps you and others.
Do you think I need surgery? Why?
What type of surgery do you recommend? Why?
Has anyone ever died from that type of surgery? Why?
Are there any other less invasive opportunities to consider? What are they?
How long have you been performing heart valve surgery for?
How many surgeries like mine, have you performed?
What do you consider my greatest risks from this operation? Why?
What do you expect as the best result from this operation? Why?
Do you think I will need another operation in the future? Why?
What else should I know about you or this surgery that might put me more as ease?
How long before I would be able to go back to a normal routine? (For my age.)
Size of valve to be used?
Do you see a time where the mechanical valve would be needing a replacement?
Lindsay Rouse Thank you all for the additional insight! I so appreciate this community and already talk about you ... Read more
Lindsay Rouse Thank you all for the additional insight! I so appreciate this community and already talk about you as friends when I'm having conversations about my upcoming surgery.
I hope you read that title in the voice of Joey from FRIENDS..."HOW YOU DOIN'?"
So obviously, this is all a lot to take in and a lot to deal with. For the ...Read more
I hope you read that title in the voice of Joey from FRIENDS..."HOW YOU DOIN'?"
So obviously, this is all a lot to take in and a lot to deal with. For the most part I feel like I'm doing OK considering there are still a lot of questions and details up in the air.
When I'm telling people about it or talking with medical professionals, I am removed emotionally for the most part. It's business and I'm making business decisions. However, when I'm alone in my car, at home, or after a conversation it will sometimes hit me - the depth and the gravity of what I'm about to go through. Sometimes it feels surreal and sometimes it feels like it's happening so fast.
I have also told people that in a way I feel like I'm grieving. Maybe not in the traditional sense but life as I knew it 2 weeks ago will never be my path again. The plans I had for the next year are null and void. I see God's providence of his intentional and intricately orchestrated details that led me here and I have seen his hand over this situation since my original diagnosis. I trust His plan is greater. I have peace that He is walking with me. Yet, just like Jesus wept and grieved for Lazarus even when He knew Lazarus would be raised from the dead, I am giving myself permission to grieve even though I know God is with me. The important thing is not getting stuck in the grief.
Sometimes I wonder if I'm letting myself "feel enough", especially if I'm not crying when maybe society says I should be and sometimes I feel like I'm letting myself "feel too much" because sometimes the floodgates open and they are hard to close. It's a fine balance and sometimes I just don't know how I feel either.
Honestly, the waiting game sucks. I'm starting to have stress dreams and had a dream last night that my surgery got moved up sooner than even Dec 16th. My acid reflux is being triggered because my body is feeling stressed/anxious so my stomach has been a mess for a couple days now. Oh and did I mention I'm on physical restriction? No working out, lifting heavy things, walking up a bunch of stairs (I currently live on the 3rd Floor of a Walk-Up Building), or just minimal walking in general. I know the restrictions are for my best though.
Lena Afanaseva I am totally understand! I did my surgery January 21, and o boy, the waiting part was the WORST!
Ther ... Read more
Lena Afanaseva I am totally understand! I did my surgery January 21, and o boy, the waiting part was the WORST!
There are no much advices, but think this way... by Christmas you will be on recovery side! Trust your doctors and team! Wish you the best and very speedy recovery!
Lindsay Rouse Thanks Lena! I definitely am trying to focus on the future post-op and keep that as my motivation!
Marie Myers There is some amount of grieving in this whole process. I felt some grief at loosing my previous “ ... Read more
Marie Myers There is some amount of grieving in this whole process. I felt some grief at loosing my previous “ totally healthy” life, and becoming a “heart surgery patient”. It definitely changes your life, and your way of thinking. As much as I enjoy my job, I have cut down to 2 days a week, as I know now we must all take time to “smell the roses”. It is a real journey, both emotional and physical that you are going on. Wishing you all the best!
Fred Seling I too had a bicuspid aortic valve diagnosed when I was in high school (I'm 62 now). I had it replace ... Read more
Fred Seling I too had a bicuspid aortic valve diagnosed when I was in high school (I'm 62 now). I had it replaced in May of 2018. My biggest struggle was following surgery and not being able to sleep on my stomach like I normally did. I did not think I had any problems, but when I saw the results of my echocardiogram I knew surgery was coming my way. As some say in Adam's book the only two choices are certain death without replacing it or surgery with very, very, low complication rates. Not much of a choice. I made up my mind I was going to embrace it and do what my medical team and family told me. It went well. Not saying there were not struggles - the biggest for me was not being able to sleep on my stomach as I normally did. 6 weeks out I thought I was doing good, 3 months out I felt I was recovered, 12 months out I was still feeling better. It takes time, just be patient (if you can). I was at total peace with the surgery because I told myself that my life was in God's hands that day, just like any other day. I was the only one in the prep room (others were already onto surgery) and it was kind of eerie as there was minimal staff still there and no normal rush as people waited for surgery. Kind of calm. I found new meaning in Psalm 23 as I felt I was truly walking in the valley of the shadow of death for the first time in my life - but I was calmed by it. Try to relax and trust God, Docs, nurses, family etc. They are there to help you.
Lindsay Rouse Marie - I completely agree! I have a very strong feeling that while my life may have changed to a "h ... Read more
Lindsay Rouse Marie - I completely agree! I have a very strong feeling that while my life may have changed to a "heart surgery patient", my life will also change in many other wonderful ways!
Lindsay Rouse Fred - Thank you for sharing a part of your story and your encouragement. I like what you said about ... Read more
Lindsay Rouse Fred - Thank you for sharing a part of your story and your encouragement. I like what you said about our lives being in God's hands just like every other day! So much peace in that! My grandma had OHS (quadruple bypass) several years ago and she also said that Psalm 23 was the scripture she stood on during her surgery and post-op. Though we walk THROUGH the valley of the shadow of death, HE IS WITH US!
Rose Madura It's definitely a journey but one well worth it. I had a myriad of complications but came through i ... Read more
Rose Madura It's definitely a journey but one well worth it. I had a myriad of complications but came through it all and now I feel great! Your faith will sustain you. God bless you.
Deb Amstutz Molnar You say, "The plans I had for the next year are null and void." I'm not sure what your plans are that ... Read more
Deb Amstutz Molnar You say, "The plans I had for the next year are null and void." I'm not sure what your plans are that must be cancelled. But I had my surgery in January and have traveled to Colorado twice (4 & 9 months post op) , and spent 2 weeks in Ireland (7 months post op). Other than the initial 3 months recovery, I've felt I was able to do most things. I did choose to do cardiac rehab (finished phase 2 and am in phase 3). I'm 64; the only long term, post surgical restrictions my cardiologist gave is no sky diving or deep sea diving - or anything that pulls g force. Sure, I'm a heart surgery patient, but first and foremost, I'm a child of God. I live my life first as His.
One of the things that made me nervous about not having a referral is that historically it takes months to see the doctor if you don't have one. After I took ...Read more
One of the things that made me nervous about not having a referral is that historically it takes months to see the doctor if you don't have one. After I took a solid nap when I got home from my TEE, I woke up enough to call Dr. Gerdisch's office and see if I could get an appointment or at least send my records over. The person that answered the phone said they needed a referral for billing purposes and told me to check again.
I made a call to my PCP to see if they could give me a referral, however, in the meantime I reached out to my friend's sister (who I hope will become a close friend as well because of this process). I asked her if she had any tips of how I could get an appointment if I couldn't get a referral.
One thing I didn't mention in my last post about my friend's sister is that she only works for Dr. Gerdisch part time now due to needing to be home more with her kiddos. Therefore, she only picks up shifts here and there. When she texted me back, she told me she was actually at the hospital on shift that night and she would see if she ran into anyone from the office.
A few minutes later she texted me back and told me she ran into Dr. Gerdisch himself in the hallway. He gave her a phone number for me to call and speak with his assistant, Nicole and to tell her that "Gerdisch said to send over reports and films."...I literally started crying when I read the text. I told her I would do that first thing in the morning.
The providence of God was so evident in this moment!
I got in touch with Nicole on Friday, November 8th. We penciled in my surgery date of December 16th. She said their surgery schedule is little crazy during November and December and that it's easier to move me later than to try and fit me in sooner. We also scheduled my first face-to-face with Dr. Gerdisch on November 26th.
I took my TEE disc to their office on Friday afternoon and picked up new patient paperwork in addition to Adam Pick's book "The Patient's Guide to Heart Valve Surgery". I read it front to back on Saturday and started making my list of questions. 35 and counting at this point. I also found this wonderful resource and community through that book.
The next step at this point is getting a call from Dr. Gerdisch and his office after he looks at my chart and records to have our initial discussion about my surgery.
Frank Giovanniello "Providence of God", very much so. I hope all goes well with your doctor.
Lindsay Rouse Thanks so much Frank! I'm glad you are recovering well from your OHS!
If you can't tell by my corny titles, I like puns and a good "play on words". On November 4, 2019, I met with my cardiologist, Dr. Paleru. She read my 2-D ...Read more
If you can't tell by my corny titles, I like puns and a good "play on words". On November 4, 2019, I met with my cardiologist, Dr. Paleru. She read my 2-D echo report and was just as concerned as my PCP. She helped explain a few of the indicators that they were looking at to me and told me the next step would be another transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) to confirm the severity of the aortic stenosis before surgeon referral. What I loved most about my appointment with Dr. Paleru is that she was empathetic when I got a little emotional but she was also very honest with me about my condition and what the future most likely held...which I greatly appreciated and was oddly comforted by. She asked when I wanted to do my TEE and I asked her when she wanted me to do my TEE. She said Wednesday or Thursday...I said "This Week?"...and she said Yes...OK Then.
Between Monday and Thursday, November 7th (when my TEE was confirmed for), I started researching surgeons. The way my cardiologist talked on Monday, I felt she was leaning towards surgery and the TEE was somewhat of a formality for insurance purposes and referral purposes. Since my cardiologist was going to do the TEE herself, I knew there would not necessarily be a waiting period for results. My dad was going with me and I needed him to advocate for me if she wanted to do an immediate surgeon referral.
I started going to a new church about 2 years ago and one of my closest friends there has a sister who is a nurse. Come to find out, she is a cardiac nurse and works for Dr. Gerdisch who specializes in heart valve replacement surgery. She highly recommended him. I started looking into his credentials and I just felt at peace about the idea of him doing my surgery. The night before my TEE, I had a conversation with my dad about my surgeon wishes and asked him to advocate for me (because I would most likely be asleep).
The morning of my TEE arrived and honestly, it couldn't have gone better. The nurse got my IV on the first try and almost a week later, there has been no bruising! That in itself is amazing! The nurses were wonderful and attentive. I had an anesthesiologist who monitored my meds so I didn't wake up during the procedure. Best of all...I didn't have to drink the nasty thick numbing medicine. Instead, my cardiologist just swabbed my throat a few times. It still tasted gross but was not nearly as bad as the first time.
When I woke up, there were bringing my dad back to my room and I started grilling him with questions about how the procedure went. He told me that Dr. Paleru told him an area less than 1.0 is considered severe aortic stenosis and per the TEE, I was at .90 so she wanted to do a surgeon referral. He told her I wanted Dr. Gerdisch and she said "He is the best, however, I can't refer you since he is with a different hospital network. I can give you a copy of the TEE that you can take to his office though." I was somewhat disappointed she couldn't do a referral but I'll take it to have the best surgeon.
October 31, 2019 I went in for a standard 2-D echo. I didn't feel nervous because I wasn't expecting anything major to show up. I started getting a little ...Read more
October 31, 2019 I went in for a standard 2-D echo. I didn't feel nervous because I wasn't expecting anything major to show up. I started getting a little nervous when my blood pressure read 140/100. When I was with my PCP less than 1 month earlier, it was only 125/85 and honestly, that was the highest read I've ever had.
Then the tech actually started the echo. I was watching intently trying to figure out what she was seeing or make sense of it. If you have ever seen a baby ultrasound and not been able to identify where the baby was or what was a foot and what was a face, that's pretty much what a heart echo is like. I had no idea what I was looking at.
The next thing that made me a little nervous was when the tech turned on color to look at how blood was flowing. I was seeing the entire spectrum of color which I knew was probably not a great sign. The tech said nothing and gave me no indication of what she was seeing. I don't know how they do it?!?
I felt like she was more detailed in the echo than I remember my last one being but after about an hour, it was over and I was on my way to work. I had no idea when I would get my results and had a plan that I would call my PCP on Monday if I had not heard from them yet.
Friday, November 1, I went to a counseling appointment I had and within 20 minutes of leaving my appointment, my phone was ringing. I was actually in the Chick-Fil-A drive thru getting breakfast. My PCP's nurse basically read a note from my PCP word for word.
"The echo showed a bicuspid aortic valve." (Yeah, I already knew that) "However, it also showed severe aortic stenosis which is very concerning to Dr. Hall and she would like an immediate referral with Cardiology. They will call you to set up an appointment. Any questions?"
The only words I heard in that moment were SEVERE aortic stenosis...(what does that even mean exactly?)...and VERY concerning.
I almost couldn't hold back the tears until I got off the phone. My brain was fuzzy and shocked. I had no idea what this meant or that my life would look incredibly different so fast. Before the end of the day on Friday, November 1, Cardiology called me and I had an appointment for the following Monday with a FEMALE cardiologist (Yay for answered prayer...remember I was looking into this in "The Next 12 Years" post).
Shannon Gray Thank you for your post... our stories leading up to and following surgery are so important to share ... Read more
Shannon Gray Thank you for your post... our stories leading up to and following surgery are so important to share with others, as well as can be healing for ourselves. Thinking of you!
Adam Pick Step by step Lindsay... You are in great hands. Let Dr. Gerdisch and Nicole guide you through this p ... Read more
Complete review of aortic stenosis symptoms, causes, risks and surgical options for patients & caregivers.
Lindsay Rouse Thank you both! I'm definitely using this journal for multiple purposes...therapy, written proof of ... Read more
Lindsay Rouse Thank you both! I'm definitely using this journal for multiple purposes...therapy, written proof of God's faithfulness, outside family and friends who had no idea I was born with this defect, and this community support is icing on the cake!
The first couple years after being diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve I continued to get check-ups with my cardiologist until he made me feel like I was ...Read more
The first couple years after being diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve I continued to get check-ups with my cardiologist until he made me feel like I was an inconvenience. I don't remember him ever asking or telling me when to follow-up and one time I was there I told him I was getting lightheaded some and he basically told me it was stress-related. So I thought that if my cardiologist didn't feel my check-ups were necessary or important, then I wasn't going to waste my time and money.
All of a sudden, we are 12 years post-diagnosis and I feel pretty stable financially, work-wise, medical insurance, etc. I told myself after I sold my house this past summer that I would find a new cardiologist and get checked at the beginning of 2020 (so my deductible is met at the beginning of the year of course).
I knew after my experience with my last cardiologist and just doctors in general, I would feel more comfortable if I could find a female cardiologist, although, those are far and few and rare to come across. I started the search but it felt overwhelming. I was at my PCP's office for a physical and she asked when the last time I had an echo...it had been when I was originally diagnosed 12 years ago. She asked if I wanted to go ahead and get one. I asked if a 2-D echo would be sufficient or if I would need another TEE and she said that a 2-D can show the flow of blood which is what they primarily need to see. She said she could refer to Cardiology if needed after the echo.
I said "Yes" to the echo and it was scheduled for Halloween 2019.
I hope as we walk through this journey together that you will see God's hand over this from the very beginning. I know I have seen Him in the smallest details ...Read more
I hope as we walk through this journey together that you will see God's hand over this from the very beginning. I know I have seen Him in the smallest details and God has made it evident He is walking with us every step of the way!
"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalms 139:13-14
The backstory starts in 2008. I went on my first mission trip in August. We were helping do a small part of an orphanage build. A couple days into the trip, I stepped on a nail while we were working. About a month or so after we returned, I was still having issues with the wound in my foot and went to the doctor for an antibiotic for a minor infection.
At this appointment, the nurse practitioner asked me if I had ever been told I had a heart murmur. I think the look on my face gave her the answer because I thought she was crazy. I was 19 at the time and no one had ever told me I had a heart murmur before. I thought the doctor was a quack! I called my mom and she said that she vaguely remembered being told I had a heart murmur when I was born but that I would probably grow out of it. I knew I needed a 2nd opinion immediately.
My uncle ran a free clinic at the time that I volunteered at a little bit and they were open that same evening so I went over and had him and the doctor there take a listen. They both confirmed I had a fairly significant heart murmur that should get checked out further.
At some point I was referred to a cardiologist and had a 2-D echocardiogram done, however, they needed to do a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) to get a better look at my valves. The TEE procedure was traumatizing. I have a very sensitive gag reflex and had to swallow this really gross thick medicine to help numb my throat. Those that know me really well, know that I used to vomit when my parents would try to give me liquid medicine. BLEH! I also woke up mid-procedure with the tube down my esophagus and remember the feeling of them removing it as I gagged. I actually started crying in the procedure room when they were finishing.
This procedure confirmed my diagnosis of a bicuspid aortic valve. This is a congenital heart defect I was born with (hence why my mom was informed about my heart murmur when I was born). The aortic valve is supposed to have 3 leaflets that open and close allowing blood to flow out to the body and brain. I was born with only 2 leaflets causing my heart to work harder opening and closing and getting the blood flowing appropriately. Eventually, I would need aortic valve replacement (AVR) surgery.
My cardiologist assured me I would not need the surgery for 20-30-maybe even 40 years and that by the time I have it, it wouldn't even be open-heart surgery anymore...
Unfortunately, he was wrong.
Happy Sunday and Welcome to my AVR Journey!
When I first heard the idea of journaling through this process, I have to admit that I thought it was a little ...Read more
Happy Sunday and Welcome to my AVR Journey!
When I first heard the idea of journaling through this process, I have to admit that I thought it was a little silly. I'm not much of a journal-er because it can be time consuming and sometimes I don't feel like I have the right words to put down on paper. However, I recently read a couple books that talked about how journaling can actually help your mental health and this community lets me know that there are others out there going through the same exact thing as me. I also noticed that as I was continuing through this process even in the short 10 days it has been since reality hit, it was hard to keep everyone updated and make sure those I cared about had all the latest information.
If you are family or friends and you want to stay up-to-date, please subscribe.
I won't promise these will be entertaining or short or succinct but I can tell you they will be thorough, probably too detailed, and authentically genuine. You will get it all...the good, the hard, and everything in-between.
So here I am...unfiltered...raw...and just Lindsay.
Marie Myers Welcome to the club that no one really wants to join...
Lindsay Rouse Thank you Marie! It's quite comforting to have a community like this!
Tyreek Small Stay strong and have faith I had two valve replacements both open heart, you’ll make it through it ... Read more
Tyreek Small Stay strong and have faith I had two valve replacements both open heart, you’ll make it through it I’ll be praying for you.