Lori Beuerlein - Heart Valve Journal

My Journal

Update posted on...

August 19, 2015

Anyone have trouble with the sternum healing? I am 7 months post MVR and my sternum still hurts, especially when I use my arms/chest muscles. Please tell me the pain will eventually go away....

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Robert Osmachenko I have had trouble with my sternum and the pain will eventually go away.
Be well.

Rafael Martinez Hi Lori...I have 2 months next Saturday and I barely have pain...just soreness... I try to lift small weight 10 ponds and the muscle pain was sharp and painful. ... Read more

Rafael Martinez Hi Lori...I have 2 months next Saturday and I barely have pain...just soreness... I try to lift small weight 10 ponds and the muscle pain was sharp and painful. ..so I decide give a 1 month or more to lift weight.

Beside that episode. ..I'm great. ..so I fell like 6 months should be no pain at all...for me...but any body is different, some cases after a year still sore...

Good luck to you. Ask your surgeons.

Tammy Pilcher Hi Lori, it's good to hear from you again, but I wish you were not having this problem. I'm at 9 and a half months post op now and I haven't had any sternum ... Read more

Tammy Pilcher Hi Lori, it's good to hear from you again, but I wish you were not having this problem. I'm at 9 and a half months post op now and I haven't had any sternum pain for several months. I know everyone heals differently though. I would probably ask your doctor about it just to make sure. Prayers and best wishes, Tammy

Tammy Pilcher Lori, I meant to add that I'm still pretty careful not to do things that might cause inflammation in my chest wall. I hurt myself around the 4 month mark by ... Read more

Tammy Pilcher Lori, I meant to add that I'm still pretty careful not to do things that might cause inflammation in my chest wall. I hurt myself around the 4 month mark by pulling myself up using one arm into my son's truck. Ended up going to ER with pain in and around my chest. They said it was inflammation. I took high dose motrin for a couple of weeks and it went away. Hope this helps.

W. Carter The only time I feel any soreness anymore is when I get up in the morning and its been 8 mo. since surgery. I have to sleep on my sides. :-)

Jeanette Davidson For me it is only 6 weeks and I would have to say that is my biggest struggle right now. They did use my mammory glands for bypass and I'm very full busted. ... Read more

Jeanette Davidson For me it is only 6 weeks and I would have to say that is my biggest struggle right now. They did use my mammory glands for bypass and I'm very full busted. I think those two things are contributing in my case. I just have a lot of soreness and tenderness aching and pulling!
I hope it subsides for you soon ! 💕

Tom N Cyndi McKinley 3 months - and if/when I overdo it I have significant sharp chest pain - particularly taking a deep breath. Accompanied by slight fever and headaches. Everything ... Read more

Tom N Cyndi McKinley 3 months - and if/when I overdo it I have significant sharp chest pain - particularly taking a deep breath. Accompanied by slight fever and headaches. Everything tested great - so inflammation of the cartilage seems to be the cause. Sounds like time will resolve this issue........sure hope so.

Lori Beuerlein Thanks everyone for the comments! My Drs did say that taking Alieve everyday would help with the inflammation, but I find it hard to remember to take it everyday. ... Read more

Lori Beuerlein Thanks everyone for the comments! My Drs did say that taking Alieve everyday would help with the inflammation, but I find it hard to remember to take it everyday. I am still sore when doing some of the everyday things, and really feel it afterward. I do have breast implants, which Im sure has contributed to the tugging and pulling of the scar (which is also still painful). You don't realize how much you use your chest muscles for everyday things, like sliding clothes across the rod to hang more clothes! Pulling open heavy doors, or like Tammy, pulling herself up in her son's truck. I think the sternum is the last place to heal, just because of the cartilage and such, and I know some bodies heal faster then others. All your comments and encouragement are comforting! Thanks heart brothers and sisters!

Update posted on...

January 19, 2015

They set me free today and it felt so good to be home familiar surrounding,

Question... I can feeling my heart beating in my chest, and sometimes, my whole body shakes with the beats.

Thank you everyone for your prayers and support! Trying to take it easy. It was such a beautiful day outside, so I took a walk around the block. My family has been amazing and I know it couldn't be easy for them to see me in that condition, but they were troopers. Each day gets better.

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Pamela Watkins So happy to see you are doing well. A walk? That is so encouraging.

Cheryl Batzing Lori, so glad you are home! And you are right...each day does get better. Give yourself grace and patience. I keep pushing too hard and being told STOP IT! Don't do that!

Bob M Amen! Home is so good. Take it easy heart sister.

Nitin Natarajan Congrats on being home. It makes such a difference. In regards to your question about feeling the beats all I know is I'm 6 weeks postop and I still hear and ... Read more

Nitin Natarajan Congrats on being home. It makes such a difference. In regards to your question about feeling the beats all I know is I'm 6 weeks postop and I still hear and feel each beat. My kids get a kick out of putting their hand on my chest/clavicle and feeling each beat. I know the sound will be there forever but I wonder if the feeling goes down over time....

Tammi Gunwall Welcome home! I have that same feeling...that my heart beats so forcefully that I feel it radiate my body and even feel it in my back left shoulder area. When ... Read more

Tammi Gunwall Welcome home! I have that same feeling...that my heart beats so forcefully that I feel it radiate my body and even feel it in my back left shoulder area. When I'm laying or sitting still I can see my whole body shake with each beat. It's crazy! The only thing I can think of is that the valve is now allowing proper amounts of blood to flow and my left ventricle is now working at normal function...something it hasn't done for a long time! We got used to the feeling of a clogged and stressed heart and now it's healthy! :)

Jim Gleason I have read that this beating feeling is due to swelling of the sack around the heart. I am told it will subside in a few weeks. I have no practical experience until tomorrow though.

Janet R Hi Lori, Glad to hear you are home now and that you were able to walk around the block, that's great! Prayers for you and a smooth recovery.

Mark Schmitz I had aortic valve replacement with a bovine valve on Dec. 11th. I also had the heavy beating in my chest, neck, head and ears. Especially annoying when I ... Read more

Mark Schmitz I had aortic valve replacement with a bovine valve on Dec. 11th. I also had the heavy beating in my chest, neck, head and ears. Especially annoying when I tried to get some sleep. I can now say that it is subsiding quite a bit this last week! I think it might be due to the fact that I am in cardiac rehab now for 2 weeks and I am starting to feel my strength coming back, (I lost a lot of weight and muscle post op). Hope that helps.

Update posted on...

January 18, 2015

Sorry I haven't posted earlier. I think my sister posted my progress. The Drs and nurses here are amazing. Especially the ICU nurses. Spent a little more to time in there then I want with a tube Dow my throat, but i am finally headed in the right direction. They left the tube in cuz I wasn't breathing on my own and my O2 says we're too low. I am on the road to recovery. And evert day gets a little better. Thanks to everyone who sent my prayers, I appreciate everything this site has brought to my healing proceeded and motivation. I'm not one of those who say "it's not as bad as I thought to was gonna be". The worst is over and I am on the right track toward recovery. I will be thinking and praying for those surgeries next week.

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Bob M Amen! God bless and rise up!

Jim Kelly-Evans You are in my thoughts...hope you recovery is smoother from now on.

Janet Garland Glad to hear you're doing well and on the road to recovery.

Cheryl Batzing Lori, I had some vent probs/not breathing on my own as well. Was just glad when it was over. Didn't really talk about that. Not sure how long you were on. ... Read more

Cheryl Batzing Lori, I had some vent probs/not breathing on my own as well. Was just glad when it was over. Didn't really talk about that. Not sure how long you were on. Just glad to hear you are moving past that and on the road to recovery! Prayers!

Waiting....

Journal posted on January 11, 2015

Surgery this week. I go between looking forward to feeling better, and being totally scared. Praying helps during those doubtful moments. Reading other peoples comments help too, especially the ones who say it wasn't as bad as they thought it would be. Had a great weekend with my kids and husband.

Keeping all of those with upcoming surgeries in my thoughts and prayers. I also will be thinking about your families who are right there beside you, and loving you every minute of every day. I hope they are your inspiration for a speedy recovery.

"I carry your heart, I carry it in my heart" - E. E. Cummings

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Tammy Pilcher Lori, I'll be praying for you for your surgery and recovery. I know everybody's experience is different, but I can truly tell you that for me it wasn't as ... Read more

Tammy Pilcher Lori, I'll be praying for you for your surgery and recovery. I know everybody's experience is different, but I can truly tell you that for me it wasn't as bad as I anticipated. I honestly didn't have much pain at all. My toughest day was day number two because of the fluid I retained. But, they gave me Lasix and that took care of it. Having my first baby was by far much more difficult! The drugs they give you will keep you comfortable so don't worry. You've got this heart sister!

Bob M Lori, I pray for a peaceful surgery and recovery. It will be a new day when your heart is fixed. God bless and rise up!

Linda Crawford Hi Lori, I know what you mean. I always liked E. E. Cummings and your quote is just right. You will be in my heart on Wednesday.

Jim Kelly-Evans Best wishes for a successful surgery!

Kimberly Biddick I love your quote Lori. That is just perfect. Best wishes for a smooth surgery and recovery!

Virginia (Ginger) French Prayers for you Lori, and may you feel the comfort and peace as all of the many people's prayers for you are answered. Try to relax and go with the flow. ... Read more

Virginia (Ginger) French Prayers for you Lori, and may you feel the comfort and peace as all of the many people's prayers for you are answered. Try to relax and go with the flow. You will be fine and so delighted once you are further on the path and recovering. Love and hugs!

Julio LaSalle Get there on time, take a nap, and know that God is holding your hand.

Lori Beuerlein Thanks everyone for the well wishes. Having all of you here on this site has helped me tremendously! I will be here for those who's life saving heart fixes ... Read more

Lori Beuerlein Thanks everyone for the well wishes. Having all of you here on this site has helped me tremendously! I will be here for those who's life saving heart fixes await them. Thank you! And God bless every one of u!

Cheryl Batzing Lori, will keep you in my prayers! Reading scripture also helped me stay calm, especially Philippians 4:6--don't worry about anything, instead pray about everything. Peace to you heart sister!

Carlos Ortiz Good luck and God Bless tomorrow! I'm going in tomorrow as well! We'll do great! Sit back and ride the wave!

Judi Nunez Lori, good luck tomorrow. Have you decided which procedure you will be having ? Minimally invasive ?

Kathleen F. You'll do great tomorrow! Good luck!

Jennifer Anderson Prayers and positive vibes for fast healing!

Michelle Maring Praying for you. Nothing but good thoughts. You will do great

Update posted on...

January 5, 2015

With MV repair surgery just over a week away, is there anything I need to do before the big day? Any insider tips would be much appreciated.

BTW - I am totally at peace as the surgery date gets closer. What a different feeling from when I first found out I needed OHS. This site (and Adam's book) have helped tremendously. It is so good to hear from other heart valve brothers and sisters. Thank you all for sharing your heart stories!

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Tammy Pilcher Hi Lori, I'm so glad you're at peace with this. I was too and that is a huge blessing! My small piece of advice is to have several button front shirts and ... Read more

Tammy Pilcher Hi Lori, I'm so glad you're at peace with this. I was too and that is a huge blessing! My small piece of advice is to have several button front shirts and easy to pull on pants. I underestimated how difficult it would be to get dressed without being able to lift my arms. Also how sore my chest would be when I tried to pull up pants unless they were loose fit. Best wishes!

Michelle Maring I went in only worrying about the pain but it was not as bad for me as I feared it would be. I only had to take very few pain meds at the hospital and didn't ... Read more

Michelle Maring I went in only worrying about the pain but it was not as bad for me as I feared it would be. I only had to take very few pain meds at the hospital and didn't fill the prescription they sent me home with.
Good thoughts going out to you for a speedy recovery.

Lori Beuerlein Thanks Tammy! My family was so thoughtful in their gift giving this Christmas! They got me PJ's and comfy sweat pants from Pink at VS! They are washed and ready to go!

Lori Beuerlein Thanks Michelle! Hope your recovery is going well.

Bob M Don't forget the cherry Popsicle, eating 3 meals a day and walking.

Jim O'Brien Hi Lori, I too was a Mitral Valve Surgery patient. I had MVP with really severe regurgitation. My surgeon gave me a 95% chance of repair and the surgery repair ... Read more

Jim O'Brien Hi Lori, I too was a Mitral Valve Surgery patient. I had MVP with really severe regurgitation. My surgeon gave me a 95% chance of repair and the surgery repair was a success. So, keep thinking those positive thoughts for a repair! I had the minimal invasive surgery and while I did have some pain, and used morphine while in the hospital, I didn't fill the prescription they gave me when I was discharged. As for scarring, I have several scars (4) but most are small (less than 1 inch) and the longest (just under the nipple) is about 2-1/2". And they are healing pretty quickly. For me, about the worst aspect of it all was the breathing tube - but that's because I ended up in ICU with it down my throat for almost 2-1/2 days. It finally came out in the early morning hours of day 3 in ICU. Normally they try to get the tube out in about 6-8 hours post surgery. It turned out my sleep apnea had a big part in me failing blood gas level tests which is used to determine when the tube can come out.
A few tips: Bring a pair of ear plugs if you are easily disturbed while sleeping - the heart monitors, etc. and hospitals in general can be a bit noisy.
Consider getting a wedge pillow or before surgery try different pillow configurations for when you get out of bed at home. I found the extra head height made it a little less painful when turning or getting out of bed.
Walk as soon as they will let you. Take it slow of course; do short walks and gradually increase the distance. Getting up and walking helped me a lot. And don't forget to pack a comfy robe and slippers. Good luck with your surgery and best wishes for a speedy recovery.
My surgery was on November 24th, 2014.

Phillip Schultz Hi Lori ,
I had my op 6 months ago and at the time I found a little pillow was an essential item as well as an ice pack ( refillable ) for those ... Read more

Phillip Schultz Hi Lori ,
I had my op 6 months ago and at the time I found a little pillow was an essential item as well as an ice pack ( refillable ) for those little itches and don't forget the iPad .
Our thoughts are with you from Australia.
Phillip Schultz

Patricia Garcia Lori, best wishes for a successful surgery. I go the day before you for mine. I pray for all of us to get through this.

Julio LaSalle Hi Lori.
Be still and know that God will be with you as He was with Abraham, Moises and David. He is a Super-natural God who loves you, and wants you to trust ... Read more

Julio LaSalle Hi Lori.
Be still and know that God will be with you as He was with Abraham, Moises and David. He is a Super-natural God who loves you, and wants you to trust Him. Cast all your cares upon Him, and He will sustain you.
May you have a successful procedure, and a speedy recovery. Amen

Update posted on...

December 16, 2014

Date is set for MVR, surgeon says there is a 90% chance of repair, so that is good news. He gave me a choice of the less invasive procedure if I wanted to. I know there are pro and cons to that approach. I am not concerned about scars, so I am on the fence about the less invasive choice. I also have breast implants which means a little more time (and a plastic surgeon) in the OR. Anyone out there have the less invasive approach, and if so, what can I expect?

PS, I haven't made up my mind about thus, so I appreciate any insight!

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Jeff V. Lori, I had a median sternotomy on 12/4 for a mitral valve repair along with a possible replacement of my aortic valve. Fortunately, my MV repair was a success ... Read more

Jeff V. Lori, I had a median sternotomy on 12/4 for a mitral valve repair along with a possible replacement of my aortic valve. Fortunately, my MV repair was a success and it was determined that my AV insufficiency was mild, so it was left alone. Ask your surgeon what approach will give him/her the most access to repair your heart for the best possible result. I think some of the newer less invasive procedures may have a "better" cosmetic result with perhaps less discomfort, but for my money, I wanted my surgeon to have full access to my heart. If you do go for a minimally invasive or robotic procedure, find out how many they have done and why they recommend that procedure over a traditional sternotomy. By the way, I was also given a 90% chance on my MV repair. Jeff V.

Lori Beuerlein Thanks Jeff for your post! I hope your recovery is going well. Thanks for posting those questions to ask the surgeon. I feel the same way you do, I'm not concerned ... Read more

Lori Beuerlein Thanks Jeff for your post! I hope your recovery is going well. Thanks for posting those questions to ask the surgeon. I feel the same way you do, I'm not concerned about the scar, just want the best chance of repair.

Just an update...

Journal posted on November 29, 2014

One surgeon down, one more to go (or maybe 2). The first surgeon wants to bypass my 50% blockage of the LAD. I was not expecting that!

I see a surgeon from Mayo clinic on Tuesday. We will see how we like that one. Done reading Adam's book (read it the first night I downloaded)!

I've been reading everyone's posts, and I am so thankful for all the patient perspectives and honesty about recovery. Several posts have really hit home, and have put my mind at ease... At least for the time being.

I am also thankful for my incredible family, especially my husband who already has been so supportive with everything so far. He truly is my rock, along with all the incredibly courageous people on this web site.

Kind of ironic, the last few years I have worked so hard to prevent that blockage from getting bigger, so I wouldn't have to have open heart surgery.... Oh well!

My goal is to do the Tillman run (walk) in April right around my birthday. Me and my family have done it every year, 4.2 miles in honor of Pat Tillman. I should be good to go by then, right?

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Joseph Ballett We all wish you well for your walk we all believe in you now You must Believe in yourself.

Clare Auten I did a 5k about 5 months post op. Not sure when your surgery is but you should be OK as long you listen to your body.

Jim Hernandez Many thoughts are with you! Similar position of getting 2nd opinions and beginning of surgeon interviews...hope everything continues to go in a positive way

Ducks in a row...

Journal posted on November 11, 2014

Completed all necessary testing to confirm the surgery. Cardiologist who did the cath said it was the most severe regurgitation he has seen in a long time. Now just need to pick a surgeon! I have the one my cardiologist recommended, and a second opinion set up at Mayo in Phoenix on Friday. I am really seriously considering going to LA and talking to one of the surgeons highly recommended on this website. Just researched to see if my insurance covers the surgeons out of state and they are in network! So confused as to the right choice! I guess I will know when I find "the one" !

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Joseph Ballett I am sure you will know when you find the right Doctor for you. Nice to met you and welcome to the friendliest club ever!

Lori Beuerlein I am so happy to be here in this club, OK! That was weird to say!!

Joseph Ballett It's a good club to be in, even if it was not the kind of club we would have ever thought of joining, but there are many rewards, not to mention all the new friends.

newly diagnosed

Journal posted on October 27, 2014

Just diagnosed with mitral valve regurgitation. They are recommending heart surgery to repair : (

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Joan Napier Lori, welcome to this site. I'm sorry to hear about your MR, but you have definitely come to the right place! Lots of helpful information, sage advice from ... Read more

Joan Napier Lori, welcome to this site. I'm sorry to hear about your MR, but you have definitely come to the right place! Lots of helpful information, sage advice from those who are "veteran HVS" patients, and most importantly the love and support of others to help you through this. I will also be undergoing MV surgery for MR. Wishing you all the best in your journey! Joan

Mary Myers Welcome Lori to ourhreart family. I had a mitral valve replacement in July.My procedure was non invasive. I live in Michigan I will write you later as I need ... Read more

Mary Myers Welcome Lori to ourhreart family. I had a mitral valve replacement in July.My procedure was non invasive. I live in Michigan I will write you later as I need to go to cardiologist for my three month check up. If I can be of any help please write me . Also my email is kidsjunction gmail.com. Have a fabulous Tuesday. Please try not to worry. Our heart family will help you on this journey. Please read my journal. Hugs from my heart to yours! Mia (Mary)

Kevin Woodard Welcome to the site Lori. I had my MV repaired last Dec 16 via the Robotics Minimally Invasive Procedure. I was out of the hospital in just a few days and everything ... Read more

Kevin Woodard Welcome to the site Lori. I had my MV repaired last Dec 16 via the Robotics Minimally Invasive Procedure. I was out of the hospital in just a few days and everything went smoothly. I would definitely get a repair not a replacement if at all possible! Like Joan and Mary said this is a great site for people like us who have lots of questions. We all are in the same boat so feel free to ask as many as you like. Everyone on this site would be more than happy to answer your questions. Stay positive and I wish you all the Best!

Adam Pick Here comes another... Welcome Lori! Great to see that you are already connecting with some of the wonderful people in our community. I can relate to some of ... Read more

Adam Pick Here comes another... Welcome Lori! Great to see that you are already connecting with some of the wonderful people in our community. I can relate to some of the emotions you might be feeling right now -- sadness, confusion and maybe fear. So you know, that is all very normal. That said, my hope is that the educational information and people at this website will help you through this process -- from diagnosis to recovery. If you need anything, please let me or the members of our community know. Adam (patient & website founder)

Tammy Pilcher Welcome Lori, you have come to the right place! I can't say enough about the support and information this community of terrific people have given me. Adam's ... Read more

Tammy Pilcher Welcome Lori, you have come to the right place! I can't say enough about the support and information this community of terrific people have given me. Adam's book and this site led me to my top-notch surgeon and hospital. I will have my aortic valve replaced on Friday, Oct. 31. I know the good Lord led me to this site and will see me through this surgery. He will do the same for you! Lots of prayers, Tammy

Journal posted on October 27, 2014

Just diagnosed with severe mitral valve regurgitation. Any recommendations on surgeons in the Phoenix area?

Any thoughts on the less invasive procedure for mitral valve repair?

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Kevin Woodard If you are a candidate for the less invasive procedure I would definitely recommend that route. I had my repaired robotically and everything went smoothly. ... Read more

Kevin Woodard If you are a candidate for the less invasive procedure I would definitely recommend that route. I had my repaired robotically and everything went smoothly. I would also visit with several different surgeons to find one that does lots and lots of valve repairs. Don't be scared to ask them how many they do a week, month or even in a year! You want someone very experienced with MV Repairs!

Adam Pick I'm familiar with Dr. Aklog. Do you know about him? He's a valve specialist. If you like, I can introduce you to him.

Lori Beuerlein Thanks for the advice! Adam, I will let you know, I have appt with Mayo Clinic next Friday, and my cardiologist is recommending someone he knows. I would like ... Read more

Lori Beuerlein Thanks for the advice! Adam, I will let you know, I have appt with Mayo Clinic next Friday, and my cardiologist is recommending someone he knows. I would like to see several surgeons to make the right selection, if there is such a thing! Im afraid of making the wrong decision : (

Lori Beuerlein What makes me a "Candidate" for the less invasive procedure?