It's my 3-year Valversary and I'm doing great! working out 3 times a week and try to walk every day, and of course, running after this little one helps a lot. ...Read more
It's my 3-year Valversary and I'm doing great! working out 3 times a week and try to walk every day, and of course, running after this little one helps a lot. lol. Wishing all of you who have upcoming surgeries great success!
Susan Lynn Happy Third Anniversary!! Beautiful photo and I love the banner!!!
Deena Z What a neat banner. And even more so that you paused to reflect and give thanks for your surgery ... Read more
Deena Z What a neat banner. And even more so that you paused to reflect and give thanks for your surgery 3 years ago. I remember you well, Michael, because I had my surgery a little more than a week before yours and we were exchanging "notes" online about whether we could drink wine, etc. So cheers!
Valerie Allen Happy Valversary, and thanks for the well wishes!
Ana Brusso What a great picture, that little one loves you. Congratulations on your third anniversary, continued ... Read more
Ana Brusso What a great picture, that little one loves you. Congratulations on your third anniversary, continued good health and God bless you 🙏❤️👍
Rose Madura Congratulations! The little one is happy you are celebrating! My husband and I celebrate every year. ... Read more
Rose Madura Congratulations! The little one is happy you are celebrating! My husband and I celebrate every year. People don't get it but we heart warriors do! 🪖❤️🩹💪
It's been a minute since I last posted...a year to be exact. Today marks the 2nd anniversary of my surgery. Feeling great (other than the normal aches and... Read more
It's been a minute since I last posted...a year to be exact. Today marks the 2nd anniversary of my surgery. Feeling great (other than the normal aches and pains of getting old )! My wife & I joined a Fit Body Bootcamp with some friends last summer and "enjoy" doing that 3 times a week. My cardiologist also is very happy with that and all the progress I've made and has now pushed me back to just annual visits. Oh and I became a grandpa in December, so all is good. Here's to all of you fellow heart warriors and to those with upcoming surgeries, keep positive, keep active and you'll do great!
Michael Morrison lol...man that pic makes my 5-head look like a 6-head
Deena Z Congrats, Michael! - for both:) . Great feeling. I remember our heart journeys that we shared w... Read more
Deena Z Congrats, Michael! - for both:) . Great feeling. I remember our heart journeys that we shared with each other and this community,;-- our surgeries were close -in-time
Ana Brusso Congratulations Michael on your amazing recovery and the gift of a grandchild. God bless you
Klara Čičić Wonderful photo. I am so glad for you, Michael! Seems like you are doing great and have very healthy ... Read more
Klara Čičić Wonderful photo. I am so glad for you, Michael! Seems like you are doing great and have very healthy outlook on life :) wishing you all the best
Rose Madura Wonderful news and a great report! I see a family resemblance in the beautiful picture....
Donna Casaletto Congratulations and what an adorable picture!
So 1 year ago today I went under the knife and had my ascending aorta and aortic valve replaced. It was a hard recovery the first couple months but it made... Read more
So 1 year ago today I went under the knife and had my ascending aorta and aortic valve replaced. It was a hard recovery the first couple months but it made it infinitely easier due to all the love and support my family and I received from all our family and friends and the members of this community. From the video shoutouts to the donated meals to the love and prayers it all helped me in my journey of recovery. So very thankful for all of you.
Susan Lynn Michael - Happy First Anniversary! That's a major milestone -- especially when you think about that... Read more
Susan Lynn Michael - Happy First Anniversary! That's a major milestone -- especially when you think about that day last year and how far you've come since then! Wishing you many decades of good health and future celebrations!
Hey all, just a quick check-in...I'm coming down the home stretch in my cardiac rehab program. Just 3 more weeks to go. Feeling pretty good, still have those ...Read more
Hey all, just a quick check-in...I'm coming down the home stretch in my cardiac rehab program. Just 3 more weeks to go. Feeling pretty good, still have those days when my body just crashes and I'm forced to nap, but not as much as after surgery, a few per week perhaps.
Kimberly Eisenhut Sounds like you are through the most difficult part! Glad to see youre doing so well! Gives me hope, ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Sounds like you are through the most difficult part! Glad to see youre doing so well! Gives me hope, thank you for sharing!
Best wishes
Joseph Heinzmann That's the biggest disappointment for me, too, Michael. Rehab goes well, things are looking up, and t ... Read more
Joseph Heinzmann That's the biggest disappointment for me, too, Michael. Rehab goes well, things are looking up, and then there's just a day or two when you just feel like all you need is a long nap. Less frequent over time, but it still is there, especially after ramping up a level in a workout routine.
Cheryl Mann I definitely have those days too. I refer to as “hitting the wall.” It happens less often now, ... Read more
Cheryl Mann I definitely have those days too. I refer to as “hitting the wall.” It happens less often now, but it still surprises me how tired I can get really fast. I’m so glad you posted this - it is so encouraging to know that still needing a nap every now and then is to be expected.
Susan Lynn Congrats on sticking with cardiac rehab! I also found the afternoon nap to be my friend for awhile ... Read more
Susan Lynn Congrats on sticking with cardiac rehab! I also found the afternoon nap to be my friend for awhile after surgery. You'll regain your stamina with time. Best of luck to you! ❤
Deena Z Michael- I so hear you!! I have about three more weeks of rehab to go too. I can push pretty hard i ... Read more
Deena Z Michael- I so hear you!! I have about three more weeks of rehab to go too. I can push pretty hard in rehab (high METS as they taught me) and feel so strong. But then sometimes feel depleted at home. Always wonder if I have been working myself too hard, when this happens. But it is hard to predict how much I can or should “push”.
I know we all scar/heal differently, but I was wondering if anyone else has had this. For the last month or so (when I got sensation in my scar area back), ...Read more
I know we all scar/heal differently, but I was wondering if anyone else has had this. For the last month or so (when I got sensation in my scar area back), the bottom of my incision/scar has often stung when the skin was stretched (even slightly). Looking back at earlier pictures compared to today, my scar is definitely hypertrophic and I’m afraid it may become a keloid. I’ve never had any issue with previous scars (two prior surgeries with incisions on my neck, plus various stitches throughout my life). And have been lucky enough for those scars to all but “disappear”. Has anyone else had their OHS scar expand? Is this a “normal” looking scar??
Civita Fahey Hi Michael. Mine became hypertrophic/keloid. It was thick, red , raised and itchy. I couldn't have a ... Read more
Civita Fahey Hi Michael. Mine became hypertrophic/keloid. It was thick, red , raised and itchy. I couldn't have any clothing touch it because it was so sensitive. I went to a dermatologist and they treated it with kenelog injections. They did do a laser treatment initially, but it didn't work. The kenelog did flatten it and now its not raised any longer not itchy. its still not white like my other scars but I have a lot of pink in my skin and most of my scars took a while to get blanched. The kenelog injections are painful, but, worth it. if its bothering you, you should see a dermatologist or plastic surgeon before it gets worse.
Lynn Loudermilk Michael hi...mine is a smidge thicker, but not much. I just ordered scar cream from amazon. I am n ... Read more
Lynn Loudermilk Michael hi...mine is a smidge thicker, but not much. I just ordered scar cream from amazon. I am not going to worry about mine unless it gets worse. I belong to the zipper club 2x, heart and neck fusion.
Shannon Gray I am with you... my initial scar looks beautiful... however I had emergency surgery following with a ... Read more
Shannon Gray I am with you... my initial scar looks beautiful... however I had emergency surgery following with a pericardial window scar that is so ugly and hypertrophic, along with chest tube scars only in my right side. I tried the kenelog treatment but my body reacted too much to it and had a scary result. After time it did go back to being hypertrophic. I wish there was something I could do, and understand the frustration.
Joan Hibo Hello Michael. I had 2 open heart surgeries 15 days apart, and being cut twice, I ended up with horr ... Read more
Joan Hibo Hello Michael. I had 2 open heart surgeries 15 days apart, and being cut twice, I ended up with horrible hypertrophic scars, very itchy and painful. It kept getting bigger amidst Mederma, bio-oil, and even the colloidal dressing did not help. I eventually ended up consulting with a Dermatologist. I agreed to the steroid shots, but it HURTS. It WORKS. I had 4 treatments already—scar almost flat except the top part. I'm going back this month for the last time, I hope. The chest tube scars are almost flat. I would do this as a last remedy if you tried all avenues.
So last year, I had decided to change cardiologist (the current one was nice, but just didn't feel a connection), but I was already under the care of Dr. Thourani ...Read more
So last year, I had decided to change cardiologist (the current one was nice, but just didn't feel a connection), but I was already under the care of Dr. Thourani and Dr. Rajagopal (an interventional cardiologist) in preparation for the big day, so I had waited. After surgery, Dr. Thourani recommended Dr. Adam Carlisle. Yesterday was my first appointment, and the wife and I both really liked him and so glad for Dr. Thourani. So Dr. Carlisle recommended, even though everyone is very pleased with my progress so far, to go ahead and enter cardiac rehab. He explained that, "they" can't quite explain why, but that there is a sort of "magic sauce" in regards to long term outcomes and those who partake in it. Research just shows that those folks seem to last even longer than those who didn't. So...now to find a place with an open spot. ;)
Dylan Kempers Michael, I had surgery 5 weeks ago and started cardiac rehab 10 days ago. Even though I was already t ... Read more
Dylan Kempers Michael, I had surgery 5 weeks ago and started cardiac rehab 10 days ago. Even though I was already taking one 70-minute walk per day, after I started cardiac rehab I felt my aerobic capacity skyrocketed, and my progress has been exponential. I highly recommend it, even to those who were in great aerobic shape before surgery (I'm a marathon runner).
Deena Z Magic sauce. Interesting, Michael. I just started cardiac rehab last week. It starts off a bit caut ... Read more
Deena Z Magic sauce. Interesting, Michael. I just started cardiac rehab last week. It starts off a bit cautious, but then every week your duration and intensity usually gets more so. So we’ll see how it goes after several weeks.
Cameron Peek So glad you found a good fit and are making progress. Thanks for the really informative informative ... Read more
Cameron Peek So glad you found a good fit and are making progress. Thanks for the really informative informative - i was planning to push for rehab but now more thsn ever.
Susan Lynn I agree about the magic of cardiac rehab! I loved it! If you have more than one choice, you might ... Read more
Susan Lynn I agree about the magic of cardiac rehab! I loved it! If you have more than one choice, you might want to visit them and make an informed decision. We've had some folks who didn't have good experiences, but most of us felt it really helped! Good luck! ❤
So things are going pretty good health-wise. I feel pretty strong, walking 2+ miles 2x a day, have lost about 20 pounds (hoping to lose a little more). I would ...Read more
So things are going pretty good health-wise. I feel pretty strong, walking 2+ miles 2x a day, have lost about 20 pounds (hoping to lose a little more). I would say I’m back to about 90%. I still have these nagging muscle pains in my right chest muscle (feels like a major bruised muscle, but not always, comes and goes), especially nearest the incision site. Nothing Tylenol can’t handle, but just wondering if any of y’all that have had surgery a few weeks/month before me still have that? Meeting with my new cardiologist in a couple weeks and should be returning to work a couple weeks after that. All in all, happy to have had the surgery (wasn’t exactly feeling that the first couple weeks 😂), and to be healthy and here!
Richard Munson 1-20-21 minimally invasive and still have occasional twinges by incision sites. Normal i’m told.
Craig Cole Michael~. Great to hear your progress as an inspiration to those of us who come behind you! There is ... Read more
Craig Cole Michael~. Great to hear your progress as an inspiration to those of us who come behind you! There is indeed light at the end of the tunnel, Thank you for all your kind thoughts and words of encouragement. I wish you continued good health and progress on your journey.
Deena Z Michael- I was told that it was my muscles that cause that discomfort, normal. I notice the pain whe ... Read more
Deena Z Michael- I was told that it was my muscles that cause that discomfort, normal. I notice the pain when I have used my arms to pull/push something over the weight limitation. (I was told not to lift more than five pounds for the first 3 months. ) So, when I went to garden - a bit- I had some muscle pain, etc. (congrats on losing the 20, that's impressive.)
Lynn Loudermilk I have been letting the dog in and out, cooking some, yesterday took out the garbage. Using the Teet ... Read more
Lynn Loudermilk I have been letting the dog in and out, cooking some, yesterday took out the garbage. Using the Teeter with arms, yesterday just one to count steps....off and on with 2. Yes my muscles, sternum and ribs ache and the nerve zingers, owww. if it is something I know I can't do well and my hubby is home I will have him do it, but if it is when he is at work I do it and regret it sometimes. yes I slowed down yesterday, today is a "rest" day. Took dinner out of the freezer.
Cheryl Mann I am jealous of your activity level! Sounds like you are doing great!
Susan Lynn Michael - That's terrific progress! Thanks for the update and inspiring those in the waiting room. ... Read more
Susan Lynn Michael - That's terrific progress! Thanks for the update and inspiring those in the waiting room. Keep up the good work! ❤
Terry Clark Hi Michael, Excellent news. Congrats on the weight loss. I'm jealous, I think I found it. The twing ... Read more
Terry Clark Hi Michael, Excellent news. Congrats on the weight loss. I'm jealous, I think I found it. The twinges should subside over time. I've been post-op for close to 2 years now and every once in a while I'll get a small one under heavy physical activity.
Today is 4 weeks since I went under the knife. So very thankful for all of you who have been keeping me in your thoughts and prayers, and to my fellow heart ...Read more
Today is 4 weeks since I went under the knife. So very thankful for all of you who have been keeping me in your thoughts and prayers, and to my fellow heart warriors who have taken time during their own healing journey to keep encouraging me. And a huge thank you to my wife, who has been my nurse these last four weeks and made sure I take my meds and get my exercise in (even when I didn’t want to go walk). Post-op appt is in about 1 week. Looking forward to being allowed to do more activities
Marshall Rader Good for you Michael. My journey begins on the 29th. Just finished up my pretest. Stay safe and press ... Read more
Marshall Rader Good for you Michael. My journey begins on the 29th. Just finished up my pretest. Stay safe and press forward in life
Susan Lynn Congratulations on your one-month anniversary! Wishing you continued success with your recovery!
Errol J. Simonitsch Like you, I finished my forth week and drove my car for the first time today! Keep walking Michael, i ... Read more
Errol J. Simonitsch Like you, I finished my forth week and drove my car for the first time today! Keep walking Michael, it’ll be worth it! Congratulations Michael
So it’s been 3 weeks since surgery, I’m feeling much better and stronger. Still a little sore in the sternum whenever I sneeze or cough, and my chest feels ...Read more
So it’s been 3 weeks since surgery, I’m feeling much better and stronger. Still a little sore in the sternum whenever I sneeze or cough, and my chest feels like someone is rubbing it with 10 grit sandpaper whenever my shirt rubs against it, but I feel pretty good otherwise. Pulse ox is finally at or above 95 and I’m able to get the spirometer up to 2500 (sometimes 2750) now, and I no longer hear/feel crackling in my lungs when I breathe so I think the fluid is disappearing (if not gone). Up to 2 13-minute walks a day. Still gotta take it pretty slow or the BPMs rise super fast. All in all, starting to have more good days than bad which is great!
Lynn Loudermilk yes BPM do rise fast. So glad to hear you are doing well. Starting rehab tomorrow and nervous about ... Read more
Lynn Loudermilk yes BPM do rise fast. So glad to hear you are doing well. Starting rehab tomorrow and nervous about it.
Susan Lynn Yay! Great progress! Slow and steady wins the recovery race! Continued success! ❤
Fran Odel Wishing you a speedy and complete recovery. (I'm terrified right now but your message has given me ho ... Read more
Fran Odel Wishing you a speedy and complete recovery. (I'm terrified right now but your message has given me hope. Thank you.)
Michael Morrison Thanks Fran, and welcome. While it is certainly scary, and there is pain involved, picking the right ... Read more
Michael Morrison Thanks Fran, and welcome. While it is certainly scary, and there is pain involved, picking the right medical team to guide you through it is key, and they will do their best to help you manage and stay ahead of the pain. Everyone heals according to their own body, but you have a great community here to help you through it and to answer any questions you might have
Heather Juras This is awesome news!!!❤️ Looking forward to being able to hang with my “framily” again real ... Read more
Heather Juras This is awesome news!!!❤️ Looking forward to being able to hang with my “framily” again real soon!!!😘
Fred Earls Michael, I've enjoyed following your journey through heart surgery. I live in Valdosta, Georgia, and ... Read more
Fred Earls Michael, I've enjoyed following your journey through heart surgery. I live in Valdosta, Georgia, and will be having surgery with Dr. Thourani on May 11.
So getting stronger every day. Last night, was able to sleep almost through the night, no waking up for any meds. I’m up to 2 11-minutes walks a day.and I’m ...Read more
So getting stronger every day. Last night, was able to sleep almost through the night, no waking up for any meds. I’m up to 2 11-minutes walks a day.and I’m backing off the pain pills. Mostly true pain is only when I’m coughing which I do a lot of when using the spirometer. My chest skin is starting to no longer be numb, but is now starting be very sensitive to touch. But I feel good and that’s awesome!
Cheryl Mann Sounds like you are doing an amazing job in your recovery!
This is kind of weird. Prior to surgery I wore glasses to drive/watch TV, etc. I have 20/15 but a slight astigmatism so didn’t really have to wear them. I ...Read more
This is kind of weird. Prior to surgery I wore glasses to drive/watch TV, etc. I have 20/15 but a slight astigmatism so didn’t really have to wear them. I also have a small prescription for reading glasses. But after surgery, I don’t need the glasses for distance at all (in fact things look crisper without them) and my readers don’t seem to work as well anymore. Not strong enough. Anyone else have vision fluctuate like that??
Terry Clark I have. Not sure why but it was more apparent after the surgery. On my last visit my optometrist to ... Read more
Terry Clark I have. Not sure why but it was more apparent after the surgery. On my last visit my optometrist told me that vision with people my age tend to improve. Not saying you are getting old, just older. :)
Walter Fiorelli I used to occasionally get what was dubbed ocular migraines. Once in a blue moon my field of vision ... Read more
Walter Fiorelli I used to occasionally get what was dubbed ocular migraines. Once in a blue moon my field of vision would become obscured by what appeared as a shimmering glob, which starts in the middle and would continue to expand outward until it would disappear. It's hard to describe, but is similar to looking through the fingers of both hands cross hatched and seeing in between the openings as your hands shimmy around. After surgery I was getting them about every day for a week or two. Now the episodes have stopped. I hope you keep your improved vision!
Lynn Loudermilk yes, I think my glasses are too strong now. For close anyway, I have a lot of astimatism. I also we ... Read more
Lynn Loudermilk yes, I think my glasses are too strong now. For close anyway, I have a lot of astimatism. I also wear progressive lenses. It seems to be equilizing a bit. I looked online and they said 3 months after surgery things will adjust, My normal eye exam would have been now but I will wait. Walter I also get ocular migraines.
My eyes are not as good as Michael’s after surgery. Mine are worse. Going to get them check this mo ... Read more
My eyes are not as good as Michael’s after surgery. Mine are worse. Going to get them check this month. I’m sure there are a lot of things that change in our bodies after OHS we just don’t noticed them right away. The good thing is that our hearts feel better.
David Smith As long as you can watch the cards get beat by the reds! All kidding aside, I wear trifocals and ever ... Read more
David Smith As long as you can watch the cards get beat by the reds! All kidding aside, I wear trifocals and everything was a little fuzzy for awhile until i ran out of my pain meds. My vision is back to normal now. Now my sternum is tender though. I’m glad all went well with your surgery and on your way to recovery!
Rose Madura My eyesight got extremely worsened and I believe it was from high doses of Amiodadrone. My eye doctor ... Read more
Rose Madura My eyesight got extremely worsened and I believe it was from high doses of Amiodadrone. My eye doctor said he sees it all the time. So glad to hear yours improved!
Rita Savelis My eyesight worsened after OHS. Don't know if that was just age or OHS related. I can see far, but up ... Read more
Rita Savelis My eyesight worsened after OHS. Don't know if that was just age or OHS related. I can see far, but up close or middle distance I can't see to save my life. It's a drag. I'm wearing my glasses around my neck because I need them all the time. I got prescription reading/middle distance glasses.
Patsy Stewart I have worn glasses for years...can’t function without them. I’ve had a lot of trouble with my vi ... Read more
Patsy Stewart I have worn glasses for years...can’t function without them. I’ve had a lot of trouble with my vision before and after surgery, but it got worse afterwards. Just out of the blue, it’s almost like my eyes cross and I can’t focus. I can close one eye and everything is normal. It doesn’t matter which eye I close. It will last about 10 minutes and my eyesight will be back to normal. My right eye sometimes just goes dark. I also have the bright lights darting about with the ocular migraines. I recently had my eyes checked. I go back in early May. In the meantime, he wants me to have my carotid artery checked to rule out a blockage. Michael, I’m happy for you that your eyes have improved.
So films look the same as when I left hospital. No better no worse. Still a little fluid build up in the lung. Just need to keep using inspirometer and taking ...Read more
So films look the same as when I left hospital. No better no worse. Still a little fluid build up in the lung. Just need to keep using inspirometer and taking deep breaths
Patsy Stewart Hopefully you will begin to see some progress. I remember being alarmed after surgery when I couldn ... Read more
Patsy Stewart Hopefully you will begin to see some progress. I remember being alarmed after surgery when I couldn’t get the needle to 250. The doctor just encouraged me to keep trying. I can get it to 1000 now. Not a big accomplishment for others, but for me, it’s great compared to what I have been doing for several years. How are you doing with your CPAP? I also struggle with that thing. Didn’t mean to make this all about me. I’m thankful your report wasn’t bad. Get better!
Well damn! Not progressing with inspirometer well enough and pulse ox consistently in low 90’s (dipping to high 80’s) and so doc has me on the way for chest ...Read more
Well damn! Not progressing with inspirometer well enough and pulse ox consistently in low 90’s (dipping to high 80’s) and so doc has me on the way for chest x-rays. Will update when results are back.
Mike Dotson Glad your getting that checked out. Keep at it. It's great to see when that thing starts to rise.
Deena Z Thinking of you Michael. Nib in-the-bud whatever is going on!
Rose Madura Best wishes. I had similar issues with cough and ended up needing a pleural effusion. The good ne ... Read more
Rose Madura Best wishes. I had similar issues with cough and ended up needing a pleural effusion. The good news was that afterwards, I felt immediately better.
Ok so that finally happened. It was a huge, totally come out of nowhere, chest bursting sneeze. And the pain, though only lasting a brief few seconds was like ...Read more
Ok so that finally happened. It was a huge, totally come out of nowhere, chest bursting sneeze. And the pain, though only lasting a brief few seconds was like fire bursting through my chest. But hey I survived it, and at least know what to expect for the next time.
Oh Michael I do remember that first sneeze and how it hurt. I kept my heart pillow with me since I su ... Read more
Oh Michael I do remember that first sneeze and how it hurt. I kept my heart pillow with me since I suffer from allergies and sneezing is always present. I held it tight to me chest when I sneezed and it helped some. God bless you and keep healing you.
Michael Morrison Yeah I grabbed for my pillow but it was too late
Deena Z So true, Michael! Have good news for you, in another 3 days or so, you will have healed so much more ... Read more
Deena Z So true, Michael! Have good news for you, in another 3 days or so, you will have healed so much more that the next sneezes won’t be nearly as bad!
Richard Munson I glued a picture of christy brinkley on my heart pillow and it made the first sneeze bearable.
Susan Lynn Perfect description, Michael!!!
And - Richard Munson - You're funny!
Lynn Loudermilk Since I am going out in the backyard more to walk around the patio, I am sneezing more and one yester ... Read more
Lynn Loudermilk Since I am going out in the backyard more to walk around the patio, I am sneezing more and one yesterday caught me off guard. Yes, painful. Doesn't help that I am allergic to the great outdoors:( Thnak goodness for my heart hugger. It helps.
Laura Julius So painful! I'm four weeks out and your description is spot on!
David Smith It’s been 7 weeks for me and I am still sleeping with a pillow over my chest. Coughing still sucks. ... Read more
David Smith It’s been 7 weeks for me and I am still sleeping with a pillow over my chest. Coughing still sucks. Good thing I quit smoking 4 months ago.
Rob Sparling Understand completely. My first sneeze occurred at J-4 desk in CC at discharge and knocked me to the ... Read more
Rob Sparling Understand completely. My first sneeze occurred at J-4 desk in CC at discharge and knocked me to the floor after bouncing off a leather chair. So I definitely get it. But I laughed — as we ALL SHOULD — because I was alive and ready to boogie home. To sneeze is a God given right. It wasn’t clear that was going to be possible!
When sneezing now I recall that first one and LET ‘ER GO.
It takes time but man it is good. A sneeze is good.
Skipper Kagamaster The post surgery sneeze! Yeah, those are killer; I don't miss that.
So 1 week ago at this time, I was waking up in the ICU. Having been home for three days now, things are slowly but surely progressing. The muscles in my back ...Read more
So 1 week ago at this time, I was waking up in the ICU. Having been home for three days now, things are slowly but surely progressing. The muscles in my back and chest feel like I did 1000 back and chest days in just one day (I stated it that I feel every fiber of every muscle attached to my ribs). But managing that well with Tylenol and have started pulling back on the pain pills. Using the inspirometer apparatus is definitely helping and I was able to actually use my CPAP last night without feeling my lungs were gonna explode. So in turn, I got my best night of sleep. Also found the best position of the wedge we got to help me sleep and it’s actually easier to get in and out of bed on my own. All in all, things today are much better than one week ago, and each day comes with a little more strength and a little less pain.
Terry Clark All part of the process. Sounds like you are doing great. Congrats!
Marshall Rader Hi Michael,
Was wondering if your bedroom on the first floor ?? Nice to be 🏠
Lynn Loudermilk Michael I understand your explanation on the back and chest pain. I also have fibromyalgia and both ... Read more
Lynn Loudermilk Michael I understand your explanation on the back and chest pain. I also have fibromyalgia and both together are kicking my butt some days. Don't push too hard, it gets easier.
Michael Morrison Hey Marshall, bedroom is on second floor. No recliner chairs on the first. Getting up the and down th ... Read more
Michael Morrison Hey Marshall, bedroom is on second floor. No recliner chairs on the first. Getting up the and down the stairs hasn’t really been an issue for me though
Marshall Rader Fantastic Michael. ,. My bed room on second floor too !! Wife bought bunch of pillows, two bed cots ... Read more
Marshall Rader Fantastic Michael. ,. My bed room on second floor too !! Wife bought bunch of pillows, two bed cots for living room, and we have power reclining couch !! LOL I told her I was sleeping in the garage !!
Ok so going to bed in my bed for first time in 6 days. As well and strong as I felt when I was discharged, the change in environment sure does take a small ...Read more
Ok so going to bed in my bed for first time in 6 days. As well and strong as I felt when I was discharged, the change in environment sure does take a small toll. Nothing terrible, but wow.
Michael Morrison Yeah stairs are taken very slowly and purposefully. I seemed to wake up on a 1.5-2 hour schedule last ... Read more
Michael Morrison Yeah stairs are taken very slowly and purposefully. I seemed to wake up on a 1.5-2 hour schedule last night to use the restroom. But other than that sleeping on my bed with my pillows felt good
Lynn Loudermilk Yes, you said it. I slept 2 nights in my recliner and been sleeping in bed since but still tempted ... Read more
Lynn Loudermilk Yes, you said it. I slept 2 nights in my recliner and been sleeping in bed since but still tempted to sleep in the chair. My back hurts, I was told I can sleep on my side, but getting to it is hard. And afraid of messing up the closure on my sternum. Gratetful here for no stairs.
Joseph Heinzmann Same wakeup call when I was discharged. Leaving the hospital I felt almost energetic. But once I sett ... Read more
Joseph Heinzmann Same wakeup call when I was discharged. Leaving the hospital I felt almost energetic. But once I settled in at home, I felt like the adrenaline from being cleared for discharge all but vanished. Had random unplanned naps (like one minute I was watching TV and then the show was over and I didn't realize it). Also, sleep disruptions, which almost seem normal in a hospital became something I was far more aware of at home. It took a few days to get a full night sleep; I had 3am wakeup for no reason and stared at the ceiling for a few minutes before falling asleep. But it all gets better.
Just take it easy, have faith, and be grateful for spousal help.
Harris Chrysanthou Patience Michael! It took me 6-8 months to feel "normal"
Michael Morrison Joseph Heinzmann - yes that’s hilarious!!! I have those random naps watching TV too. Like I’m fin ... Read more
Michael Morrison Joseph Heinzmann - yes that’s hilarious!!! I have those random naps watching TV too. Like I’m fine and awake and the next minute without warning, snoring logs
Thomas Mathiassen Glad to hear you're home Michael! The bed at home is always the best feeling!
Lynn Loudermilk Random naps, oh yes. I think my body is saying, you need the sleep don't worry about it.
Ok so Post Op day 4. Early this morning they removed my PCA pump, and oxygen (and sensor). All positive signs. Pain is at about 4 out of 10. Chest feels very ...Read more
Ok so Post Op day 4. Early this morning they removed my PCA pump, and oxygen (and sensor). All positive signs. Pain is at about 4 out of 10. Chest feels very tight and I can tell I have some junk in the lungs with every breath. Trying to use the inspirometer as much as possible to get that stuff to expectorate. For this wondering, Dr. Thourani ended up using a 25cm Inspiris valve, so I’m a cow. Lolz
Lynn Loudermilk Michael, awesome!. Yep use your inspirometer. It is a pain sometimes to use but helps a lot. I am a ... Read more
Lynn Loudermilk Michael, awesome!. Yep use your inspirometer. It is a pain sometimes to use but helps a lot. I am a cow too 21cm Inspiris valve. I think you are doing great. This past week I have the tireds.
Well Post-Op day 3 update, second drainage tube unfortunately did not come out today. I’m not progressing on the breathing apparatus as well as I had hoped. ...Read more
Well Post-Op day 3 update, second drainage tube unfortunately did not come out today. I’m not progressing on the breathing apparatus as well as I had hoped. That tube is really the only thing that hurts and when I get up to walk and then sit or lay back down it really kills and knocks me on my butt for about 5-10 minutes. Drain didn’t produce quite as much so far today, so hopefully it can come out early tomorrow and I can still discharge tomorrow. Everyone here is great, but really do want to be home with my wife.
Kathie Morrison Hang in their Michael. Big surgery, let your body set the pace for your recovery. You got this!
Marshall Rader Stay positive my friend !! Small set back I'm sure !!
Deena Z I had three drainage tubes and they were all left in me until the night before discharge. (so five ... Read more
Deena Z I had three drainage tubes and they were all left in me until the night before discharge. (so five days). -- and I was not having any abnormal discharges. I didn't have any pain, so it could be your one tube is hitting a nerve (ouch). Michael, you're way ahead of many warriors. The hospital will take an x-ray at your bedside tonight to see how your chest looks like fluid-wise, before taking the last tube out!
Lynn Loudermilk Wooo keep working on the breathing, yes that is difficult. I am up to 1600, too me a while. Chest ... Read more
Lynn Loudermilk Wooo keep working on the breathing, yes that is difficult. I am up to 1600, too me a while. Chest tubes...all i can say is ug. Was so glad when they were gone. You are doing well keep it up.
Michael Morrison Came back from my third walk to my nurse saying the last tube was coming out! A million times better ... Read more
Michael Morrison Came back from my third walk to my nurse saying the last tube was coming out! A million times better already!!! Thanks all
Anooj Zaveri Glad to hear you’re in good spirits, Michael. That’s awesome you’ll be getting that last tube o ... Read more
Anooj Zaveri Glad to hear you’re in good spirits, Michael. That’s awesome you’ll be getting that last tube out! Stay strong!
Post Op Day 2, pain is a little more today but not terrible. They just took out one of my chest drains. So that helps. Steph has been here every day and an ...Read more
Post Op Day 2, pain is a little more today but not terrible. They just took out one of my chest drains. So that helps. Steph has been here every day and an absolute rock. Love that woman so much. Plan for today is to do some walking. 🚶🏼♂️
Terry Clark Take it slow. The walking is good and gets easier with each round.
Susan Lynn You're making great progress, Michael! Enjoy the walk! ❤
Adam Pick Step by step Michael!!! You are on the right path! I really reading about your thankfulness for Step ... Read more
Adam Pick Step by step Michael!!! You are on the right path! I really reading about your thankfulness for Stephanie. It reminds of all the love that Robyn showered over me throughout the surgical process - before, during and after the surgery. All the best with your early recovery. And, please take it easy. There is no need to rush feeling "normal" again. That is a very common mistake of patients. Your body needs to heal. Again, please take it easy. All the best! And... Keep on tickin!
This is Stephanie again. He is finally off all the loopy meds. Sitting in a chair. In pain, but managing. Should be getting out of ICU today.
Anooj Zaveri That's great! Slow steps, in the right direction.
Terry Clark Hi Stephanie. That is wonderful news. Don't be surprised if he says a few funny things while he com ... Read more
Terry Clark Hi Stephanie. That is wonderful news. Don't be surprised if he says a few funny things while he comes off anesthesia brain. Please tell Michael we are thinking of you both.
Adam Pick Great update Stephanie! Please give Michael our best!
This is Stephanie Morrison, Michael’s wife. He wanted me to update you all after surgery. By the grace of God all went well. Thank you all for being such ...Read more
This is Stephanie Morrison, Michael’s wife. He wanted me to update you all after surgery. By the grace of God all went well. Thank you all for being such a great support system for him and for each other. I know this outlet has been really helpful for him.
Thomas Mathiassen Excellent! Thanks Stephanie! Shared it back with the Daugherty team in Atlanta! :)
Kathie Morrison So happy to hear this.....pass on hugs when you can! Love and continued prayers.
Susan Lynn Woo-hoo!!! Great news! Thank you for the update, Stephanie! Please give Michael our best! Also- g ... Read more
Susan Lynn Woo-hoo!!! Great news! Thank you for the update, Stephanie! Please give Michael our best! Also- get some rest, yourself! This is a team effort and exhausting for you, too!
Deena Z Stephanie, Fantastic!! Thxs for the update. Every day Michael will get so much stronger, quite mira ... Read more
Deena Z Stephanie, Fantastic!! Thxs for the update. Every day Michael will get so much stronger, quite miraculous. When his appetite comes back, bring michael food:). Also, you can ask for special requests such as low salt chicken soup, sandwiches, Italian ice, if michael is not interested in the stated menu items.
Heavenly Father, I entrust my life to You as I go on the operating table. May Your hand be upon the surgeons and doctors who will do the operation. Allow them ...Read more
Heavenly Father, I entrust my life to You as I go on the operating table. May Your hand be upon the surgeons and doctors who will do the operation. Allow them to act as extensions of Your healing hands. Enable them to be the instruments that will help me recover my strength. As I fall asleep from the anesthetic, I ask You to be with me always. Allow me to feel Your presence. Let Your peace surround me even as I am unconscious. I trust in Your promise, God, that when I call to you for help, you will heal me. All these things I ask in Your Name, Amen.
Deena Z Thinking of you from the hospital on the recovery side. The stats for a successful surgery are way, ... Read more
Deena Z Thinking of you from the hospital on the recovery side. The stats for a successful surgery are way, way on your side. Take each m day as it comes. My pain was very well controlled. It was not unbearable. I asked for meds immediately! And my appetite was poor for almost three days, somy family brought protein shakes and that made a huge diff!
Tom Everson Michael you got this. Everyone’s experience is different. My advice is to use your faith , follow ... Read more
Tom Everson Michael you got this. Everyone’s experience is different. My advice is to use your faith , follow your Heart Teams directions, walk the halls when they let you( as much as you can) , thank everyone that comes in your room to help you and ask for help when you need it. Keep a positive attitude.
Anooj Zaveri Stay strong and positive, Michael. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. 👍🏽
Stephanie Michelle Sleep well. I will see you tomorrow and He is with you always. Love you so much!
Katheryn Applegate I am praying for you Michael! I had BAV, developed aortic stenosis and had surgical aortic valve rep ... Read more
Katheryn Applegate I am praying for you Michael! I had BAV, developed aortic stenosis and had surgical aortic valve replacement last September. I can honestly say I am now In better shape thsn before surgery. I trust That you will be too. Do what they tell you and lean on your faith. You’ll be fine.
Amy Minto Praying for God to guide the surgeon's hands and act as His instrument. Do all you can to stay calm, ... Read more
Amy Minto Praying for God to guide the surgeon's hands and act as His instrument. Do all you can to stay calm, keep your mind as relaxed as possible (you will heal faster & use less anesthesia), and know you are going to make it through this with an awesome testimony to share! You've got this! I jus hit my 3 year valve-a-versary this weekend. It is all so worth it!
Joe Giansante God bless you Michael, and wonderful prayer!
So just a few days before the Big Day. 😀 After discussing all the pros and cons with my surgeon about the different valves, we’ve decided on a tissue valve. ...Read more
So just a few days before the Big Day. 😀 After discussing all the pros and cons with my surgeon about the different valves, we’ve decided on a tissue valve. One reason is not wanting to be on blood thinners for the rest of my very long life, but also, because I suffer from misophonia (yes it’s a real thing) and am very afraid that hearing the repetitive clicking of the mechanical valve would drive me to madness. Just the mention of that to my surgeon and he had no hesitation on which one to go with. The only up in the air matter is porcine vs bovine, but he will make that decision once he is in there and can see how big a valve he can fit. The bigger the better.
Michael Morrison Oh and by the time the tissue valve fails, he is confident that TAVR will be a viable option and not ... Read more
Michael Morrison Oh and by the time the tissue valve fails, he is confident that TAVR will be a viable option and not have to go through all of this again
Laura Julius So excited for you, Michael! It’s a great decision for you and I’m excited your surgeon is suppor ... Read more
Laura Julius So excited for you, Michael! It’s a great decision for you and I’m excited your surgeon is supportive and helpful to that end!
Lynn Loudermilk Michael I also went tissue with TAVR if needed in the future.
Mike Tontillo Hi Michael, I'm 1 day after you on the 25th. Great news about your valve decision as it sounds like t ... Read more
Mike Tontillo Hi Michael, I'm 1 day after you on the 25th. Great news about your valve decision as it sounds like the right decision for you. I too chose to go with a tissue valve. I know everything will go great for you on the 24th.
Odd question...For you men...Did you shave your own chest prior to surgery, or let them do it? If so, how much do you shave, the whole front or just the chest? ...Read more
Odd question...For you men...Did you shave your own chest prior to surgery, or let them do it? If so, how much do you shave, the whole front or just the chest? I have Hailey-Hailey disease and worry about letting them do it, because in the past, they've always just dry shaved areas of my chest to get EKG leads to stick, and the irritation can cause a breakout
David Smith Hi Mike! Not an odd question. In my binder I was given from the hospital, I was told not to shave my ... Read more
David Smith Hi Mike! Not an odd question. In my binder I was given from the hospital, I was told not to shave my chest and that they would take care of it pre op when you’re asleep. This prevents SSI or surgical site infections. Let them know about your HH and they will take care of you.
Joseph Heinzmann Opinion
I would not, unless your surgeon specifically says it's OK. The pre-op instructions I receive ... Read more
Joseph Heinzmann Opinion
I would not, unless your surgeon specifically says it's OK. The pre-op instructions I received were not to shave any area around the intended surgery. This reduces the chances of infections. Bottom line: Ask your surgeon before doing it.
Terry Clark When I had my bypass surgery they dry shaved the chest area and part of the groin area. First they u ... Read more
Terry Clark When I had my bypass surgery they dry shaved the chest area and part of the groin area. First they used clippers to remove the bulk of the hair followed with a razor. I don't recall if they used any shaving cream. If you explain the condition I'm sure they can make adjustments for you. Good Luck. I'm thinking about you buddy. You're going to love the socks.
Michael Morrison And just confirmed from my doc...NO SHAVING! ;)
Adam Pick Hah! You just brought back a a memory. I was completely unaware and a bit naive I guess about the c ... Read more
Adam Pick Hah! You just brought back a a memory. I was completely unaware and a bit naive I guess about the chest hair shave. I'll never forget when the nurse walked in the pre-op room with the clippers and I said, "What are those for? I'm getting heart surgery today not a haircut?" :)
Thomas Brusstar I had an open heart repair, so I knew they would have their way with my chest, but when I was done I ... Read more
Thomas Brusstar I had an open heart repair, so I knew they would have their way with my chest, but when I was done I woke up surprised to find stripes shaved bald up each inner leg, all the way down. Plus all kinds of black marker lines. I guess they prep for possible vein harvesting or something just in case. So my legs were not used during the surgery but I looked like Pepe le pew with stripes. I use electric hair clippers on my head anyway, so I just clipped the legs down to at least match! So don’t be surprised if your legs get in on the haircut also!
starting to put together a list of "necessities" to bring to the hospital. Aside from the obvious toiletries, comfy button-up pjs, etc, was there anything else ...Read more
starting to put together a list of "necessities" to bring to the hospital. Aside from the obvious toiletries, comfy button-up pjs, etc, was there anything else y'all brought? anything you wish you brought, or things you ended up not having to have brought at all? I'm looking at 5-7 days in hospital after surgery.
Sue Cortner Definitely phone & charger cord - that’s what Chuck missed most when he went in last year.
Peter Luxenberger I just saw your question. For my hospital stay I took my phone along with my tablet with their charge ... Read more
Peter Luxenberger I just saw your question. For my hospital stay I took my phone along with my tablet with their chargers and headphones. I had a robe, pajama bottoms and slippers packed. I only used the robe because I did not want to irritate the groin incisions where the heart lung machine was connected, besides I did not feel like bending over to put the pajama bottoms on.
Rose Madura The best thing for me that is out of the ordinary was a travel pillow for napping in the chair.
Anooj Zaveri A pair of headphones would be good to drown out the noise outside your room. If your tablet doesn’t ... Read more
Anooj Zaveri A pair of headphones would be good to drown out the noise outside your room. If your tablet doesn’t have a built in kickstand, may want to bring something to prop it up so you don’t have to hold it or strain your neck from looking down.
Michael Morrison Thanks all! Anooj, good call out on the kickstand...didn't even think of that. Guess I'll have to hav ... Read more
Michael Morrison Thanks all! Anooj, good call out on the kickstand...didn't even think of that. Guess I'll have to have the Amazon fairy send me one. ;)
Saw Dr. Thourani today for my pre-op consult and to get all the details of my upcoming surgery. Will be having a Bentall procedure, replacing my BAV, root, ...Read more
Saw Dr. Thourani today for my pre-op consult and to get all the details of my upcoming surgery. Will be having a Bentall procedure, replacing my BAV, root, and the aneurysm. Will be going with biological valve, though whether he uses a porcine or bovine will depend once he gets in there and is able to see which option will be best for my ticker. Looks like 5-7 days post-op in the hospital and about 12 weeks recovery time. Will keep everyone updated if any new details arise before surgery and of course will document my healing journey on here as well.
Michael, I had the Bentall procedure 16 mos ago. I got a bovine valve, so far so good. You will do gr ... Read more
Michael, I had the Bentall procedure 16 mos ago. I got a bovine valve, so far so good. You will do great. Keep us posted on date of surgery etc., I will keep you in prayer. Be well and God bless you
Lynn Loudermilk I am aslo getting a tissue valve, the INSPIRIS RESILIA.
Just had another CT scan done, and then a virtual follow up with Dr. Thourani. It's time...finally! ;) Surgery scheduled for 3/24. Will go in next week to talk ...Read more
Just had another CT scan done, and then a virtual follow up with Dr. Thourani. It's time...finally! ;) Surgery scheduled for 3/24. Will go in next week to talk about specifics of the operation and all that stuff...but finally seeing a light at the end of this tunnel.
Susan Lynn That's the spirit, Michael! Waiting is the worst part! It feels good to get that date! You'll do ... Read more
Susan Lynn That's the spirit, Michael! Waiting is the worst part! It feels good to get that date! You'll do just fine! ❤
Well, CT confirmed aneurysm at 4.9cm. However, everything else looks "good", BAV is mildly stenotic with mild regurgitation, and aortic root still looks good, ...Read more
Well, CT confirmed aneurysm at 4.9cm. However, everything else looks "good", BAV is mildly stenotic with mild regurgitation, and aortic root still looks good, so no decision for surgery just yet, but will get another CT in 6 months to see if it has grown any more. So it's back to the "watchful waiting" game. ;)
Adam Pick Way to stay on top of your BAV and Aneurysm Michael. For those of you out there, like Michael, who a ... Read more
Adam Pick Way to stay on top of your BAV and Aneurysm Michael. For those of you out there, like Michael, who are evaluating their BAV and aneurysm next steps, I just posted a video with Dr. Brinkman about this exact topic. If you would like to check it out, here it is. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKHyvzuv2G0
https://www.Heart-Valve-Surgery.com - Bicuspid aortic valves are one of the most common forms of congenital heart disease. A bicuspid aortic valve with aorti...
Steven Methot What he said ^^^. My CT scan is Thursday. My aneurysm was 5 or maybe 5.1 last year, we'll see if th ... Read more
Steven Methot What he said ^^^. My CT scan is Thursday. My aneurysm was 5 or maybe 5.1 last year, we'll see if the puppy has grown. BAV is fine, but that aneurysm... well I think that's the one that we should all be looking at.
So I recently decided to look at changing cardiologists. I wanted someone who was more of an expert in valve diseases. Got a couple good recommendations from ...Read more
So I recently decided to look at changing cardiologists. I wanted someone who was more of an expert in valve diseases. Got a couple good recommendations from Dr. Malaisrie, for both an interventional cardiologist and surgeon here in the ATL. Meeting with Dr. Rajagopal and Dr. Thourani, with Marcus Heart Valve Center at Piedmont Hospital, and they requested getting a new echo (last one was performed back in January). I was perfectly fine with that because in the last few months I've been having wicked palpitations, interpolated PVC, and high heart rate (spiking above 120 bpm) when sleeping at night, and shortness of breath. Things just weren't feeling "right". At any rate, echo results showed the aneurysm at 4.9cm. They've ordered a CT to verify the actual size, but given that it was 4.5 in January, and they don't expect them to grow any more than .1cm per year as being "safe", it looks like things might be progressing much quicker to surgery. CT is scheduled for Wednesday (9/30), so I'll let everyone know the results then. Fun times. :)
Adam Pick Step by step.. You're on the path Michael. Great job being proactive on this. Fyi, Doctor Thourani ... Read more
Adam Pick Step by step.. You're on the path Michael. Great job being proactive on this. Fyi, Doctor Thourani is a great surgeon and a really nice guy. Hope it goes well.
paused to reflect and give thanks for your surgery ... Read more
paused to reflect and give thanks for your surgery 3 years ago. I remember you well, Michael, because I had my surgery a little more than a week before yours and we were exchanging "notes" online about whether we could drink wine, etc. So cheers!