Lori's Journal

Post op visit with surgeon today.

Funny thing is that I thought all those heart palpitations pre-surgery were normal and now that it’s all fixed I don’t have that feeling of being able to feel my heart beating all the time, anxiety at night, rapid heartbeat upon getting into bed. I didn’t know that everyone didn’t feel those things. I called myself asymptomatic but I definitely was symptomatic!

recovery is harder than I expected but it’s coming along. Some days better than others.

being back in Colorado will be wonderful!! A few more days here in CA.

This note is specifically for my friends and family that I would like to stay in touch with but creates too much texting or calling. 

Im nine days out from my 10.12.23 robotic assisted mitral valve repair. Dr said repair was beautiful - no leaking.

Bob, Anna, and Jeni have been great caregivers. I’m such a lucky momma!

The surgery and the recovery so far has been far more intense than I ever could have imagined! Some days I feel like I’ve turned the corner and then a day is rough again. It’s a process. I thought I would breeze through and bounce back quickly but this is requiring a huge effort! And a lot of pain meds and other meds!

I have a post op with the surgeon on Wednesday the 25th. Hopefully, all is good!

love to all of you

XOXO

Pre op went well on Monday. All my tests came back great! Everyone was so professional at Cedars! Very impressed with the care so far!

We met with Dr. Chikwe and Vivien (her NP) and again I’m feeling like I’m in great hands!!

Tomorrow is surgery and I’m ready. I’ve prepared myself mentally and physically and have also set up our living situation nearby Cedars. I’m feeling good about it all! We are about 7 blocks from the hospital so it’s very convenient. The neighborhood is very nice and very walkable so it will be a great place to recover. The weather in LA is sunny and in the 70s every day but I still miss home!

Anna arrives today so backup help will be greatly appreciated! 

this photo is from a lovely neighborhood about a mile away from us. Tropical bird noise and good flowery smells. Our place is not quite like this but it’s still nice.

Arrived in Beverly Hills yesterday and settling into our place here. It’s a big city compared to home! Also, a big apartment compared to home. 

Surgery is a week away so pre- op  on Monday and surgery on Thursday. Feeling anxious but ready.

Robotic assisted mitral valve repair scheduled for October 12, 2023.

Surgery is 3 weeks from today so I am beginning to invite my friends and family to follow me on this journey to keep all of you updated.