Hello All... I had OHS in May of 2019 to replace a monocuspid valve and aneurysm. I now have a mechanical valve and a replaced ascending aorta. Our state ...Read more
Hello All... I had OHS in May of 2019 to replace a monocuspid valve and aneurysm. I now have a mechanical valve and a replaced ascending aorta. Our state has opened the gyms but they are requiring a mask at all times when working out. I heard that this is bad for blood pressure and on your body. I would really like to get back to my routine pre-surgery since my healing from OHS was long and then Covid hit and the gyms have been closed off and on the past year. Thanks in advance.
Marie Myers I can tell you that after wearing a mask at work in the operating room for 41 years, I have never suf ... Read more
Marie Myers I can tell you that after wearing a mask at work in the operating room for 41 years, I have never suffered any ill effect nor have I heard of any medical person suffering from any mask related problem. And there were some pretty intense, high stress, lots of moving and running around kind of action. I have worked out in the gym earlier this year, always wearing a mask. I quit my gym in the summer because lots of people were not wearing masks while working out. I have not seen any studies showing that BPs are higher for a person wearing a mask. I don’t know of any bad effects on your body from wearing a mask, either. Maybe someone will do some research on that. I probably would not have quit my gym work outs if everyone had been wearing a mask. Hope we get some real research done on this question.
Civita Fahey We are required to wear a mask at my boxing gym also. I tend to breath through my mouth and at times ... Read more
Civita Fahey We are required to wear a mask at my boxing gym also. I tend to breath through my mouth and at times feel out of breath, but for some reason, with the mask I find myself breathing correctly. Maybe I'm more aware of it now. I cant say I like wearing a mask while I exercise, but, if it means I can exercise then I'll do it.
Steven Methot Mike, I don't think it's bad. I am Canadian and ran extensive mileage (way back when the world was ... Read more
Steven Methot Mike, I don't think it's bad. I am Canadian and ran extensive mileage (way back when the world was in black and white) of about 130 miles a week all year round. We're talking abo ut runs in sub zero Fahrenheit weather. I wore face covering and didn't suffer other than snotcicles (frozen nose stuff).
Lisa Coombe I’m lucky where I am, we don’t need masks at all. Our premier (Western Australia) worked hard to ... Read more
Lisa Coombe I’m lucky where I am, we don’t need masks at all. Our premier (Western Australia) worked hard to keep our state safe and COVID-19 is controlled, hope where you are get better soon
Ron Gifford Mike: I had OHS on 9/25 for a mitral valve repair. Starting 10/26, I did cardiac rehab at the heart h ... Read more
Ron Gifford Mike: I had OHS on 9/25 for a mitral valve repair. Starting 10/26, I did cardiac rehab at the heart hospital 3 times a week for five weeks, and wore a mask during each session. I did 30 minutes of cardio each time (spin bike and elliptical) as well as weights -- all while wearing a mask. Honestly, it seemed to have no real effect on my breathing. Re your BP: the rehab staff monitored my blood pressure during the cardio exercises, and never noted any abnormalities. I've read that you can get masks specifically designed for working out -- there's a bit more room in the front of the mask to keep the fabric away from your mouth during harder breathing.
Hello All.... Its been a little while since I have posted or visited the site. Things have been going great for me as I enjoyed a nice summer this year, unlike ...Read more
Hello All.... Its been a little while since I have posted or visited the site. Things have been going great for me as I enjoyed a nice summer this year, unlike last year, playing golf, sand volleyball and coaching my daughters softball team. This site is great a place to get advice and get questions answered. Recently when I have some hard coughs or sneezes (once in a while) I can feel it hurt a little on my sternum from where the surgery was. I am not sure if this is something that maybe got sore do to so much more activity this year. I have been back to the gym now for a few months and was playing golf two to three times a week. Also the weather got really cold up here recently so I am wondering if that had anything to do with this. Let me know if this is common or if anyone else has experienced this.
Welcome back Mike, so good to hear you are doing great. I miss you and although I can’t answer your ... Read more
Welcome back Mike, so good to hear you are doing great. I miss you and although I can’t answer your question but am glad to hear from you. Stay healthy and take care, blessings
Susan Lynn Mike - Great to hear from you! Sounds like you're doing well! Hope this link helps:
https://health. ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - Great to hear from you! Sounds like you're doing well! Hope this link helps:
https://health.mountsinai.org/blog/why-does-my-chest-hurt-when-its-cold/
“The uncomfortable feeling in the chest during cold weather usually is related to changes in temperature and humidity. We are not clear exactly what’s the cause of this discomfort in the chest. But it is felt that the chest and the ribs rejoins the breastbone. It’s the cartilage called the joint space – that can swell up in cold weather and that can give you some uncomfortable feeling in the chest. However, if people have chest pain, especially when they’re shoveling snow and especially if they’re elderly, that could indicate that they could have a significant heart condition. If the discomfort in the chest increases while increasing workload and it has associated symptoms – difficulty breathing and nausea, vomiting – you should seek medical attention. Just a simple chest discomfort with cold weather could be just related to the cold weather and it should go away and it’s not of a concern.”
One year ago today I entered the Mayo Clinic bright and early for an operation that changed my life. On February 12th 2019 I went to the doctor for a random ...Read more
One year ago today I entered the Mayo Clinic bright and early for an operation that changed my life. On February 12th 2019 I went to the doctor for a random echo on my heart. I felt very confident that I was a healthy guy that worked out often only thing I liked to do was have a few beers every so often. When I got the news back that I had a bicuspid valve and an aneurysm at 5.3cm my life changed. How could it be? I have no symptoms. Play sports and workout 5 days a week. I guess genetics don't care about what you do but more where you came from. After that I would be seeing doctors and having multiple appointments to get better understanding what was going on. Within 1 month of my diagnosis I was sitting with a surgeon Dr. Pochettino and having him tell me that we need to have an operation to fix this soon. Come to find out I had a monocuspid valve which made it more dangerous for me to have this aneurysm. So I said lets wait till after summer and then I will get it done. He told me that would not be wise and I should get it done in May or sooner. So within one month of my echo I went from thinking everything is good to finding out I need to have OHS or I might not be around much longer. I was told to stop doing all the things I loved to do. Sports, weightlifting, and even biking to be safe. If I wanted to do any of these it would need to be at a very little minimal level.
Then May 6th came along. Alarm clock went off at 3am (like that was necessary) to make sure that I was up and doing my final preparations for what was coming up. The walk from the hotel to the clinic was cold and dark. But full of confidence. Full of faith and strength that everything is going to be better after today and I can get back to living the life I was. The procedure went well and everything looked good. While in ICU on the 2nd day I developed C-Diff. At this point I could not eat and was full of fluids. My colon was 2.5 times the size that it should be. They kept me in ICU for 6 days till I was a little better and able to be moved to a regular room. In there daily I met with my surgeon and the general surgeons who had talked about removing my colon due to the C-Diff. Tell me about a test of your faith during this situation. Then also during this time I had two situations where my chambers were not talking to each other and I went through heart block. Now the talks of getting a pacemaker installed started. It was at this point I thought about just giving up but then I said to myself that is not me. Not the type to give up. I prayed and researched. Finally 2 days after talking to the doctors and them allowing me to choose my on diet my C-Diff cleared up. Everything was getting better. Since my INR was high I had to stay in the hospital a lot longer since they needed to install a pacemaker. 22 days later I was walking out the hospital door ready to start the new road to recovery.
The days and weeks went by great after getting home. I was walking further and further on a daily basis. Starting cardio rehab and getting in some light lifting. Then I started back to the gym on the days I didn't have cardio rehab. Soon I was back out to playing volleyball and golf. Hence a little sore but was more careful and doing. 13 weeks later I was back in the gym and getting my routine back in place. Weeks and months went bye and I was getting stronger and not feeling any pain. 4 months after I went back to the Mayo to get some checks on my pacemaker and was told that everything was looking great and I can get it removed if I wanted to. He could not guarantee no heart block again but was confident it can be removed. I choose to keep it well as a backup plan and it really wasn't going to affect my life.
Today I sit here, well in quarantine, back to work and back to life. Nothing is stopping me now. I ride 10 miles on the bike a day since the gym has been closed. I built a little gym in my basement to keep lifting weights. Golf is starting again and I am back out there. Life is great (besides Covid-19).
To all of you that are going to have surgery soon have faith and strength and never let that go. Even when it gets tough keep strong in it. Be thankful for all your nurses, doctors, and surgeons that work on the front lines and help people on a daily. I had a rough time in the hospital and I made a lot of work for the nurses but they were always so happy and polite to me. While I felt bad for making things harder for them with things that I could not prevent (no thanks to C-Diff). There is lots of life to live after you get through all this and it can be a long happy life. Today I stand here one year removed and a happy person strong in my heart and faith. Keep rocking all you heart warriors and to the many I have talked to over the past year that helped me with information, guidance, reading material and even my seat belt cover (Thanks Rob) you guys have meant the world to me during this time. Keep ticking and God Bless!
Elaine Cutri Congratulations on your 1st anniversary Mike! That's a tremendous story and testament to your strong ... Read more
Elaine Cutri Congratulations on your 1st anniversary Mike! That's a tremendous story and testament to your strong spirit. Keep ticking!
Joyce Shelby Wow....beautifully said. We all come out better on the other side!
Congratulations Mike, you’ve come a long ways and so glad you’re doing great. God bless you
Carlos Banuelos Congratulations! I remember reading your posts and closely following your recovery since my surgery w ... Read more
Carlos Banuelos Congratulations! I remember reading your posts and closely following your recovery since my surgery was a few months after yours. I’m very happy to hear you’re doing well.
Mark Jaycox Congrats Mike. I hardly visit the site anymore now that I've had my surgery. I just celebrated my 17t ... Read more
Mark Jaycox Congrats Mike. I hardly visit the site anymore now that I've had my surgery. I just celebrated my 17th month on Tuesday. Amazing how time flies!
Mark Jaycox I just read your story again and forgot how long you were in the hospital. Man, I feel lucky because ... Read more
Mark Jaycox I just read your story again and forgot how long you were in the hospital. Man, I feel lucky because I was only in for 5 days and have had no complications. I only take my vitamins every day. I feel blessed to have gone through this before all this Covid-19 happened. I can't imagine having to go to the hospital for all those tests now. I'm glad your doing well and maybe one day we can play a round together.
GARY STANKO Congratulations, I am also a Mayo graduate. It will be 3 years for me in August. I was going back t ... Read more
GARY STANKO Congratulations, I am also a Mayo graduate. It will be 3 years for me in August. I was going back there for my annual physicals but will probably not this year. We did the Mayo brothers tours and their story is pretty amazing.
Herb Greenberg Mike, congrats. You were an important point of reference for me.
Tom McDonald Mike, Happy 1 year anniversary with the new valve. So glad to hear things are going great and life i ... Read more
Tom McDonald Mike, Happy 1 year anniversary with the new valve. So glad to hear things are going great and life is good! It's hard to believe it's been a year for you already. Next month for me. Continued success in your recovery. Be well. 💪
Susan Lynn Mike - You definitely had some difficult complications. It's good to know that you got quickly back ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - You definitely had some difficult complications. It's good to know that you got quickly back on track. It's amazing what your own drive and motivation can overcome! Happy First Anniversary and for continuing to support and inspire everyone on this site! All the best!
Marie Myers Congrats on your anniversary! You have been through a lot, but came through with flying colors!
Mike Roskowinski Thanks everyone for your comments. Good to hear from some that I have not heard from in a while.
Joey Hardee Hey Mike! Well, that went by fast. So glad you are doing so well. You are truly an inspiration. You w ... Read more
Joey Hardee Hey Mike! Well, that went by fast. So glad you are doing so well. You are truly an inspiration. You were for me ahead of my own surgery and continue to be. Thanks for updating and continuing to inspire!Keep rolling on, brother! Very happy for you.
Rob Sparling Mike, you are a strong dude and it is inspiring! Way to go and thank you for putting all the details ... Read more
Rob Sparling Mike, you are a strong dude and it is inspiring! Way to go and thank you for putting all the details out there. It is hard to do sometimes, I know. But I gained a lot of strength from this site heading into my surgery by learning what is truly possible and hope our posts can help propel others to seek help and advice which may extend their lives — just like you did. It is pretty easy to shut down and hope for a good outcome. “Hoping” is not a viable strategy! Congrats, HW. YOU ROCK! Stay buckled up! 🤟
Rita Savelis Happy Anniversary Mike. I also had a longer recovery than most (it was 5 yrs ago) and feel what you'v ... Read more
Rita Savelis Happy Anniversary Mike. I also had a longer recovery than most (it was 5 yrs ago) and feel what you've been through. Recovery takes time .....and then one day you're recovered! Take care.
Merry Christmas to all my fellow heart warriors. Thank God for our surgeons that helped save our lives and to allow us to live a lot longer. Spend this special ...Read more
Merry Christmas to all my fellow heart warriors. Thank God for our surgeons that helped save our lives and to allow us to live a lot longer. Spend this special time of the year with family and friends and let them know how special they are.
Rose Madura Merry Christmas. So glad we live in a time where open heart surgery is nearly perfected.
Chris Calhoun Mike - you got this one right!! Merry Christmas !!!!!
Merry Christmas Mike. I personally spend every time I can thanking God for his blessings and letting ... Read more
Merry Christmas Mike. I personally spend every time I can thanking God for his blessings and letting those close to me know how much I love them and how grateful I am for them in my life. I also lift up in prayer my surgeon Dr. Starnes and his team for a successful surgery. I also thank God for all of you who have been most helpful and forthcoming with great information and comforting me when I needed it and still need. Way to go Mike!
Frank Giovanniello Merry Christmas ALL ! Mike, I am also here because my Great Surgeon and his Team. Thank You Dr Gioia ... Read more
Frank Giovanniello Merry Christmas ALL ! Mike, I am also here because my Great Surgeon and his Team. Thank You Dr Gioia and St Lukes Bethlehem Team. And family, I don't know if you read this, But you know, I send you love, everyday.
I saw this story today and thought I would share it. His Instagram message is great and powerful.
"When my doctor told me I would need open heart surgery ...Read more
I saw this story today and thought I would share it. His Instagram message is great and powerful.
"When my doctor told me I would need open heart surgery I couldn’t believe what he had just said. Especially for something that I had been living with my whole life. It took me some time to fully grasp what that meant. Stuck in between wanting to feel sorry for myself, hopeless/angry at God, I had to make a decision. Would I bask in my misery and bow down to my situation or would I DECIDE? Decide to stand on faith or stand on negative thinking. So I made a decision! “God shall be my hope, my stay, my guide and lantern to my feet.” When I say failure is not an option, it’s a prayer, an affirmation and an acknowledgment. God has brought my family and I this far, so much joy and so many blessings. This is just another opportunity for God to manifest in my life so that I can be an example of what faith with work can truly do."
https://sports.yahoo.com/broncos-cb-cyrus-jones-formerly-of-ravens-and-patriots-had-openheart-surgery-in-denver-this-week-183049759.html
Cyrus Jones was shocked when doctors told him he needed heart surgery.
Chris Purvis Mike your post hit home with me man and I love it. Sounds like you trusted from the beginning and alt ... Read more
Chris Purvis Mike your post hit home with me man and I love it. Sounds like you trusted from the beginning and although I did as well my human instincts kicked in and then the conflict comes to play. Last year was tough on me mentally but with all these recent events, I’ve just let go and trusted that God would move mightily and he did and will continue. Happy Holidays to you and your family Mike.
Hello All -
Its been a little while since I posted but thought I would give an update. I am a little over 6 months removed from my OHS and a week away from ...Read more
Hello All -
Its been a little while since I posted but thought I would give an update. I am a little over 6 months removed from my OHS and a week away from my 40th birthday. I just had my 6 month echo last week and my cardiologist said everything is looking great. Ejection Factor is at 61 which is normal and healthy. Its been quite the roller coaster ride this year with my family and health scares. Looking forward to the holidays and a nice 3 week vacation to end the year in Florida. We will be having our first Christmas without snow which is exciting but also a little different since I have been in Minnesota my entire life. During this week off Thanksgiving I wanted to say that I am thankful for Dr. Pochettino at the Mayo Clinic who did my operation and got my heart fixed. All the nursing staff that helped me through my 16 day stay in the hospital. Especially thankful for our advancement in medicine that will allow me to live a lot longer. And last but not least our amazing and never failing God who has helped and protected me everyday. Without him in this journey I don't know what I would have done as he gave me strength, hope and courage that never failed. I want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and even a more blessed Christmas season. For those in the waiting room know that the wait is worse than the recovery. Those that are recovering keep pushing everyday and know that you will be back to a normal life quickly. Some day's maybe harder than others but push through and keep fighting. God Bless!
Rob Sparling I echo Chris’ comments! Glad you are doing well. Enjoy Florida!
Chris Calhoun Mike - I see your ejection fraction is great - had it been reduced at some point? Mine was 58% pre su ... Read more
Chris Calhoun Mike - I see your ejection fraction is great - had it been reduced at some point? Mine was 58% pre surgery and now a poor 34% post op - but I am only 60 days out now - hoping it can improve
Susan Lynn Glad you're doing well, Mike! Happy Thanksgiving! ❤
Harris Chrysanthou Thats great to hear Mike! What type of heart valve did you choose for the replacement? I am assuming ... Read more
Harris Chrysanthou Thats great to hear Mike! What type of heart valve did you choose for the replacement? I am assuming that a portion of the ascending aorta was replaced too, correct?
Life after surgery
I am finally back to a normal life after my surgery. I have been doing everything that I did in the past and even more. Today I put in ...Read more
Life after surgery
I am finally back to a normal life after my surgery. I have been doing everything that I did in the past and even more. Today I put in 20000 steps and had plenty of exercise. Even though I do not post as much as I used I read daily. For all of you new to this and just starting out trust me the recovery is so much better than the waiting. It breaks my heart to hear the stories on here sometimes and especially Tim’s about his daughter. I went through heart block twice while in ICU and it is scary for everyone involved. It’s hard because once you get through the surgery and everything is back to normal we all seem to drift away from this community. I know that I was way more active prior to surgery. I don’t post as much everyday as I used to but I do read. If anyone has any questions about my experience please ask me. I love this site and it helps so many people go through this. I know it helped me and I can guarantee it has helped me. There are a lot of us veterans to say here checking in daily and still mingling. Tom from Mankato here in Minnesota is always here and supporting people. Much love to my fellow Minnesotan and Pochettino survivor. Hope all you fellow warriors the best in surgery and a great recovery. I check all the time and my thoughts and prayers are with everyone with events coming up. If I do not post trust me I know you have a surgery and I am praying for you. Good night and god bless
Rose Madura Great post Mike. Your posts are always inspiring.
Susan Richards Thank you Mike. You’ve been a great encouragement to me.
Debbie Kelly Great to see your post, Mike. You give people HOPE!
Herb Greenberg Mike, thanks for the update. I'm currently weighing CC (my first choice) over Mayo and Pochettino (hi ... Read more
Herb Greenberg Mike, thanks for the update. I'm currently weighing CC (my first choice) over Mayo and Pochettino (highly recommended by family in Rochester and a doc who has worked along side him.) Noting you said Pochettino "survivor," I was curious what you thought of him/the experience. You had quite a rough go of it for awhile. If you had it to do over again, would you highly recommend? Thanks. And keep up the great recovery. Given everything you went through, you are a reminder for those of us still in the waiting room that as difficult as it can be there is more than mere light at the end of recovery!
Mike Roskowinski Thanks everyone for the comments.
@Herb - Yes I would definitely go back to him. My situation that ... Read more
Mike Roskowinski Thanks everyone for the comments.
@Herb - Yes I would definitely go back to him. My situation that I had post surgery was nothing to do with the surgeon just my body reacting afterwards. When I said survivor I did not mean it in a bad way. He is really easy to talk to and work with. He checked on me a lot and his team was amazing. Given my post surgery issues I spent a lot of time talking to them and working with them. I was in the hospital for 16 total days due to C Diff that took sometime to go away. I know that CC is the best in the nation at this and since I live in Minnesota and the Mayo was close to me I decided to go there. Maybe if I was required to travel for my surgery I would have choose CC since they are ranked #1 compared to the Mayo at #2, but I am very happy with the decision and the outcome. I "interviewed" a few surgeons before making my decision and Pochettino is the one I felt the best with.
Mava Reif Great post, as usual, Mike! So happy you have recovered so well!
leslie terjesen Glad you are doing well. Been six months for me and it's like s distant memory!
Tom McDonald Hey Mike ,
Great post and glad your recovery is going well. My recovery is as well. Thanks for the s ... Read more
Tom McDonald Hey Mike ,
Great post and glad your recovery is going well. My recovery is as well. Thanks for the shout out!😁 your spot on about Pochettino and his team. I wouldn't do anything different in my choice of surgeon or hospital. We are so fortunate in Minnesota, to have one of the best medical facilities in the world in our backyard "The Mayo", so close to us. (85 miles for me). I can't say enough good things about my experience there. I can't agree more, anyone considering the Mayo for their surgery are in excellent hands with Pochettino and his team. We are both living proof of his skills! Continued success in your recovery!!
Just a FYI, check out one of my last posts. I posted something about a ring you can order from the ON-X valve manufacturer.
Herb Greenberg Mike and Tom, thanks for the input. Your recoveries certainly are impressive. And Mike, while CC is " ... Read more
Herb Greenberg Mike and Tom, thanks for the input. Your recoveries certainly are impressive. And Mike, while CC is "ranked" No. 1, both are highly regarded. I recently saw some stats linked through via the US News rankings that actually showed Mayo ahead of CC on a specific aorta surgery stat. One of the big differences, as I've been told, is that Mayo is less of a "machine" than CC. On the other hand, there is the argument that a "machine" is what you want when you have this kind of procedures. The reality is - many people have these procedures in hospitals all over the world -- and do just fine. If you have a choice, and can travel to a major center, that is a plus. You're lucky that one of the best is in your back yard.
Joy Vera Hi Mike. So pleased to know your life is back to normal. Mine is too. Normal is a wonderful thing, ... Read more
Joy Vera Hi Mike. So pleased to know your life is back to normal. Mine is too. Normal is a wonderful thing, I'm thinking. Take care.
So I am 13 1/2 weeks out of surgery and I am back to doing everything I did prior to surgery. I have golfed 6 times since my week 12 restrictions were lifted. ...Read more
So I am 13 1/2 weeks out of surgery and I am back to doing everything I did prior to surgery. I have golfed 6 times since my week 12 restrictions were lifted. Played sand volleyball in my league the past 4 weeks. I am back at the gym on a regular basis lifting weights, using the stairmaster and running. I feel great doing all my normal activities. The recovery process is not as bad as you think it is and you can bounce back quickly. For anyone that is active and athletic you will get back to normal pretty fast. Let your body rest and recover to make sure you have no set backs. The only things I have bothering me day to day is that sometimes my incision feels like it is pulling. This usually only happens in the mornings and I am not sure if it is due to sleeping and having it pinched together all night long. After I wake and move around it feels fine. The next thing is I can feel my heart beating harder. It is something that I have gotten used to but still can get worrisome at times.
If you are out of surgery and onto recovery make sure to do cardio rehab. If you were in good shape before it will help you bounce back faster and help calm your nerves when you start pushing yourself. I completed cardio rehab after 14 sessions. Actually 16 but the first and last days were more of a consultation than actual rehab. Also the days I was not at cardio rehab I would go to the gym and do the exact same workouts. Besides those make sure that you walk, walk, walk. I still get 7 to 8 miles a day in. I found a perfect 3 mile loop that I take my dog for a walk on. Lately it has been really hot and humid here so we have pushed off the walk but the weather is getting better now. Good luck to all of you that are just out of surgery or waiting to get into surgery. I found that waiting was the hardest part of it all. God Bless!
Brett Kurtz Mike this is very encouraging. I hit a couple of bumps at the beginning of my recovery and tomorrow w ... Read more
Brett Kurtz Mike this is very encouraging. I hit a couple of bumps at the beginning of my recovery and tomorrow will be 12 weeks. There was a long waiting list for rehab so just started in 3 weeks ago but it has been a huge help. A little nerves because since coming off amiodarone I feel my heart rate jump quickly after I start my workout. I have the same pain when I wake up. Been sleeping on my sides and my left side is so tight in the morning
Joe Tarango Thank you for these encouraging words! That's great that you are back to a normal and active life. I ... Read more
Joe Tarango Thank you for these encouraging words! That's great that you are back to a normal and active life. I hope to be there too one day.
Carlos Banuelos Thanks for posting this, and glad to hear you are back to doing the things you enjoy. I’m aiming f ... Read more
Carlos Banuelos Thanks for posting this, and glad to hear you are back to doing the things you enjoy. I’m aiming for the 3 month mark to be at least running and starting to play vball and surf again. I’m 3 weeks out of surgery now and I feel like the incision is the only thing holding me back. Gonna take your advice though and just take it easy and continue to walk. Looking forward to cardiac rehab. How many weeks post op did you start cardiac rehab?
Herb Greenberg Given your immediate post-surgery complications, your report is exceedingly great to read.
Mike Roskowinski Hey Carlos I started cardio rehab at 4 weeks. I was in the hospital for 16 days due to CDiff and need ... Read more
Mike Roskowinski Hey Carlos I started cardio rehab at 4 weeks. I was in the hospital for 16 days due to CDiff and needing to get a pacemaker. Start whenever you can.
Mark Jaycox Hey Mike good to see you're doing great. I haven't been on the website in a while so it's good to cat ... Read more
Mark Jaycox Hey Mike good to see you're doing great. I haven't been on the website in a while so it's good to catch up.
Christopher May So glad to hear it’s going so well for you, brother! I’m 5 months today and feel great as well!!! ... Read more
Christopher May So glad to hear it’s going so well for you, brother! I’m 5 months today and feel great as well!!!
Joy Vera So pleased to read that life has returned to normal for you, Mike. Take care.
rich monoson Amazing from the pre surgical mindset to where you are now. Incredible Mike.
Joey Hardee That is a great update, Mike. You are doing fabulous. I'm happy for you with the golf. I can't wait. ... Read more
Joey Hardee That is a great update, Mike. You are doing fabulous. I'm happy for you with the golf. I can't wait. Thanks for the inspiration!!
So Monday will be my 11th week out of surgery. Things are getting better daily for me. I will be officially graduating cardio rehab on Tuesday after 16 sessions. ...Read more
So Monday will be my 11th week out of surgery. Things are getting better daily for me. I will be officially graduating cardio rehab on Tuesday after 16 sessions. They have me running and jogging now and everything looks good. Yesterday I was able to join my team and play some volleyball again in the sand. It felt really good being able to get out and play with them. We won 2 out of the 3 games and still hanging in first place!! I have started adding weight to my workouts since I am getting so close to that 12 week mark. Everything feels good and if I do something that doesn't I stop and change my workout. I have plans to golf the day I am officially 12 weeks out. I went to the Mayo for a checkup on Monday after wearing a holder monitor for 24 hours and everything is looking great. He said that I have not had any A-Fib since early June when I got last checked out. The doctor mentioned that I might actually not need the pacemaker anymore but also said that I have a chance of going through heart block again so I can decide. For now I decided to keep it and see how things go throughout time. INR is finally stable and I am constantly at 2.2 when I get checked. I do not need to get blood checked now for 3 weeks which is the longest time frame I have had in months. So happy I can wait for a while to get poked again. Overall everything is feeling like I am back to normal except still a little tightness in the zipper area and the hard pounding of the heart. My resting heart rate is finally down to 63 and my bp is normal. I meet with my cardiologist next month to start dropping some of these medication doses. Hoping that I can get off of them quickly. Thanks to all of you for being part of my journey and helping me with questions I have had. So happy I feel like everything is back to normal for me. Any future heart warriors know that you can do this and you will be able to recover and move on with your life.
Carlos Banuelos Great hear everything is getting back to normal for you. I have felt the pounding heartbeat as well ... Read more
Carlos Banuelos Great hear everything is getting back to normal for you. I have felt the pounding heartbeat as well these last two days. The surgeon and my dad (he’s a doctor too) said they one of the reasons is that prior to surgery the opening of my valve was only .5 cm and now it’s like a wide open door. My surgeon said it’s just gonna take a little while to get used to the new normal. I hope eventually feel even better than before. And it turned out I had a monocuspid valve. They didn’t know that until the old valve was removed. I thought you said you had the same thing. He said that a lot patients our age who need surgery have the mono upside which explains why it wears out so fast.
Joy Vera Yea, Mike! Great that you are moving forward.
Jeff Baker Mike, nice to hear your recovery is coming along fine.
Rose Madura Glad to hear you are dojjng so amazing Mike! Congratulations on your success! I love the pounding s ... Read more
Rose Madura Glad to hear you are dojjng so amazing Mike! Congratulations on your success! I love the pounding sound. It reminds me of how well it's working.
So does anyone know how long it takes for your incision to be fully healed? I am 10 weeks out and mine still is red and sometimes when I do certain movements ...Read more
So does anyone know how long it takes for your incision to be fully healed? I am 10 weeks out and mine still is red and sometimes when I do certain movements feels like it is pulling. It happens mostly when I am sleeping and when I wake up. Otherwise when I am in a certain position to long and then move a certain way. I just wonder how long it will take to feel normal again in this area.
Lena Afanaseva I am 5 months since my AVR. Just finally can sleep on my stomach and no pain when I exercise. I guess ... Read more
Lena Afanaseva I am 5 months since my AVR. Just finally can sleep on my stomach and no pain when I exercise. I guess be patient for another month or so:)
William Fults I've had two instances of tightness/muscle type pain in my chest, the latest being around 3 months ou ... Read more
William Fults I've had two instances of tightness/muscle type pain in my chest, the latest being around 3 months out. Both times seemed to happen with prolonged side sleeping, and/or heavy lifting/weird movement. Almost 5 months out now and feel normal--lifting weights etc.
Rita Savelis 10 weeks is still early. I hear you. You'd like everything to be back to a past normal. Your incision ... Read more
Rita Savelis 10 weeks is still early. I hear you. You'd like everything to be back to a past normal. Your incision has probably healed but the pulling can remain. I remember asking the same question and waiting to feel "normal" and after awhile realising that my sternum would always feel "different", and that that pulling feeling that comes and goes was part of a new normal. I get it when I do something strenuous, or just sometimes when I'm tired. After 4 yrs it comes a lot less now than in the first year. Your incision will stay red for awhile but if you stay out of the sun for a year it should eventually match the color of the rest of your skin. Happy summer Mike.
Willie Radl It took me a while, I'd say 5-6 months to feel "healed" and another 5-6 for the sternum to feel "flat ... Read more
Willie Radl It took me a while, I'd say 5-6 months to feel "healed" and another 5-6 for the sternum to feel "flat" again. It's a slow process but it does eventually heal.
7 Weeks Completed!
So time is going pretty fast now since I am back to work and doing almost all normal stuff. Feel like I am healing really well and kicking ...Read more
7 Weeks Completed!
So time is going pretty fast now since I am back to work and doing almost all normal stuff. Feel like I am healing really well and kicking butt in Cardio Rehab. 7 sessions in and they got my walking at grade 5.0 at speed 3.7. Ready to start running hopefully soon so I can test this heart out. I have also been going to the gym every other day and doing the same workout. The sternum is still a little sore but mainly when I cough and sneeze. Still does not feel 100% as it feels a bit tight at times but getting better everyday. I cant wait for this thing to be fully healed so I can do more exercises in the gym. I am not doing anything for the chest or pull downs yet since I am told not to. Cardio rehab told me no go on biking or using the lawn mower yet. Told me to wait the full 12 weeks. I do like to use the sauna and steam room and was wondering if that is ok for me to do and that I am not damaging anything.
On another note I would like to start putting something on my scar to help it go away. What is the best to use and that I would be allowed to use right now? I read people on here that have got their scars to get small and less noticeable and would love to do that with mine. Also how long till I can start going into the water and having my shirt off. My kids love to go swimming and I have not been able to go in the pool with them or feel like I can have my shirt off when I am outside with them. Glad that I will still get to enjoy some summer stuff once I am fully healed.
Barbara Wood You're doing so well Mike! My scar healed really well, it's practically nonexistent after 2 years- I ... Read more
Barbara Wood You're doing so well Mike! My scar healed really well, it's practically nonexistent after 2 years- I posted a photo of it at one year on my journal. I kept it out of the Sun the first summer & occasionally used burts bees body lotion on it- mainly keep it out of the Sun!
Tim Saint G'day Mike, so glad to hear you are back at work and doing great at cardio rehab. I think Barbara nai ... Read more
Tim Saint G'day Mike, so glad to hear you are back at work and doing great at cardio rehab. I think Barbara nailed it. I have had my zipper opened and shut 3 times now and counting, I think keeping it out of the sun when it is healing (or period) is number one. I have also heard of Burts bee's body lotion which may assist in the healing process. Put a rashie on and enjoy the pool and summer fun with your kids. Continued strong recovery to you Mike and best wishes to your family.
Diane Esposito I was told to keep the sun off of it for at least 12 months to avoid permanent darkening of the scar. ... Read more
Diane Esposito I was told to keep the sun off of it for at least 12 months to avoid permanent darkening of the scar. I put a good sunscreen on underneath my higher neckline tee shirts to be sure the sun gets blocked.
Joy Vera Glad cardiac rehab has you at a level that suits you more now. For my 2010 surgery I used a product ... Read more
Joy Vera Glad cardiac rehab has you at a level that suits you more now. For my 2010 surgery I used a product called "Scarsof" on my scar & I was happy with the way it had blended into the rest of me. I'm using it again this time. Found it on Amazon.
Tracy Fallu Glad you are feeling progress. Enjoy this “down” time. You’ll have the rest of your life to run ... Read more
Tracy Fallu Glad you are feeling progress. Enjoy this “down” time. You’ll have the rest of your life to run, lift weights and mow the lawn. 😊
Rose Madura I used Vitamin E oil which helped with the scar. I'd wear a tshirt in the sun. Glad you are doing s ... Read more
Rose Madura I used Vitamin E oil which helped with the scar. I'd wear a tshirt in the sun. Glad you are doing so well. You were healthy going into the surgery so that has helped with your recovery. You remind me somewhat of Gerald!
The sun is the enemy for scars, so you need to keep it covered. I have used Mederma and Vitamin C products for scars with good success. I didn't use anything on my OHS scar and it faded almost completely on its own.
Btw, I'd stay away from the sauna, hot tub, or anything else that can spread germs and cause infection. You're still recovering and need to stay healthy. There are enough variables that we can't control, but there are some we can easily avoid.
Does anyone know when I can start using the mower? My wife picked up a new job so she is working more between her two jobs that I hate to bug her to mow for ...Read more
Does anyone know when I can start using the mower? My wife picked up a new job so she is working more between her two jobs that I hate to bug her to mow for me. Would like to start doing it myself.
Rose Madura Mike, that would be something to discuss with your doctor. You don't want to hurt your incision. It ... Read more
Rose Madura Mike, that would be something to discuss with your doctor. You don't want to hurt your incision. It's vital that the bone heals completely.
Valerie Herndon-Vitarella If you are still going to rehab, they can probably answer that. I'm assuming you are talking a push m ... Read more
Valerie Herndon-Vitarella If you are still going to rehab, they can probably answer that. I'm assuming you are talking a push mower and I had to be 8 weeks after sternotomy before I was allowed to do racquetball and kayaking and I took it easy at first.
Peter Eglinton At my 6-week appointment, the cardiac surgeon cleared me for anything that I am comfortable with -- i ... Read more
Peter Eglinton At my 6-week appointment, the cardiac surgeon cleared me for anything that I am comfortable with -- including sleeping in any position "even upside down"). That said, they suggested I check in with the cardiac rehab folks about their recommendations, which I plan to do later this week. Hopefully it's OK to mow the lawn, since I did it for the first time in a while this past weekend...
Hello All - I have the Heart Valve book that Adam wrote and am willing to send it to anyone that would like to read it before they go in for surgery. It is ...Read more
Hello All - I have the Heart Valve book that Adam wrote and am willing to send it to anyone that would like to read it before they go in for surgery. It is full of useful information and will help you get through your surgery. Please follow me and I will see your email address show up and I will be able to direct message you to get your address. First person to comment and follow will get the book. I know it helped me through everything that I went through and I am sure it will help others.
Tom McDonald Mike,
Hope you are doing well. The book Adam wrote was a huge help to easy my anxiety too
Susan Lynn Agreed! A must read for prospective patients and their families! ❤
Rob Sparling Keep the circle of giving intact! Way to go! 👍
Well today officially starts week 6 of recovery for me. I am walking around 5-7 miles still everyday. I have been attending Cardiac Rehab 3 times a week but ...Read more
Well today officially starts week 6 of recovery for me. I am walking around 5-7 miles still everyday. I have been attending Cardiac Rehab 3 times a week but feel like they are not pushing me hard enough. I want to get back to the gym and doing my workouts the way I did before surgery so I keep asking them to push me a little harder. As of right now I am not finding the benefits of attending these sessions. Maybe I am to impatient and that is my problem but my daily walking is a lot more intense than what they have me doing. I know I am still some weeks out till I can start lifting weights so that kind of sucks but I guess it is part of the process. I meet with my cardiologist tomorrow afternoon so maybe I can talk to him about some more things that I have on my mind. I really want to go on bike rides with my family but I am not sure if they will let me ride my bike.
On another note I just got a letter from the Mayo about some appointments that they scheduled for me on July 11th. I am trying to see if I can get them done closer to my house since it is an hour drive there. One of the tests is a Holter Monitor and I am not familiar with that. Do you know how many days I will need to wear it for? I see that I have another appointment on July 15th for a consultation but it is not explained any better. It says to not shower when you wear this Holter Monitor so I am hoping that I am not required to wear it for 4 days and not being able to shower for that long. I emailed the nurse asking for more information about it but I thought I would check with the community first.
Otherwise everything else is going well for me right now. Started work today which is great. It has given me something to do to keep busy and not just sit around and play video games. Kids are all out of school so they are around all day to so that is also very nice. I feel like I need to make up time with them since I was in the hospital for 2 weeks and was unable to spend time with them. My daughter got a pitching machine so that we can work on her hitting for softball. She loves it and asks everyday when we are going to go out and practice. She is getting so much better at hitting since we got the machine. Glad that life is getting back to normal for me as it helps my mood.
Susan Lynn Mike - Great to read that your recovery is going so well. Your activity level is amazing.
Are you w ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - Great to read that your recovery is going so well. Your activity level is amazing.
Are you wearing a Holter monitor at rehab? It's basically a wireless EKG and allows the staff to monitor your heartbeat while you're working out. They should also be measuring your blood pressure before, during, and after your sessions. Do you know if your numbers are within the targeted ranges? You may want to discuss with the staff. My team kept increasing our workout routine once our heart rates indicated more challenge was needed. We had participants running on the treadmill if they could safely handle it. Best of luck and continued success. ❤
Rose Madura I'm glad you are doing so well and want to do more. But try to give your body the rest it needs. Re ... Read more
Rose Madura I'm glad you are doing so well and want to do more. But try to give your body the rest it needs. Regarding the Holger monitor, I wonder if it is protocol for the Mayo clinic? I did not have to wear one after my surgery. I did years ago and it was for 24 hours but everything has changed. I'd think any cardiologist (locally) could set it up. Hopefully the Mayo will respond positively to the email request. Glad yohh jjntend to discuss rehab with the doctor. Your body has had major trauma. Best wishes. I'm sure you'll keep us posted!
Joy Vera Hi Mike. I wore a Holder monitor a couple of years ago & I believe it was for about a week. The car ... Read more
Joy Vera Hi Mike. I wore a Holder monitor a couple of years ago & I believe it was for about a week. The cardiologist was trying to determine if I had any arrhythmia going on. As I recall, I could disconnect it when I showered. I know for sure I did not go without showering. On the cardiac rehab, I view that as an opportunity to be monitored during exercise more than an actual workout. They are probably being conservative since you just started & will ramp it up as time goes on & you provide them with feedback. I'm glad to hear that life is getting back to normal for you too!
Christopher May Love it! So glad you’re getting back to normal!
Barbara Wood You're progressing great Mike! You are probably wearing a holter monitor at rehab. I wore 1 for 24 ho ... Read more
Barbara Wood You're progressing great Mike! You are probably wearing a holter monitor at rehab. I wore 1 for 24 hours prior to my 6 month check-up - checks for arrhythmias, palpitations.
Catie B You're doing awesomely! My cardiac rehab program made me sign a commitment to NOT exercise outside of ... Read more
Catie B You're doing awesomely! My cardiac rehab program made me sign a commitment to NOT exercise outside of their program. I'd been walking since the day I was released on my own and I begged, cajoled and cried but that was their rule. All to say, it's great you've got a program that'll let you do both their and your exercise! When I had to wear a holter type monitor, once it was for 24 hours and once it was for 48. Best to you, Mike!
William Fults Glad to hear your doing so well Mike. I felt the same way about rehab when I started. I actually ha ... Read more
William Fults Glad to hear your doing so well Mike. I felt the same way about rehab when I started. I actually had a heart rate restriction, I assume ordered from the cardiologist, on for the first few weeks which is why I wasn't able to push it too hard. When that came off I got to do more, and now I go in and run as fast and hard as I want on the treadmill, etc. It's really just about the monitoring, and they will let you off the restrictions soon.
Mike Roskowinski Thanks everyone for your comments. Sounds like I need to be a little more patient and see what happen ... Read more
Mike Roskowinski Thanks everyone for your comments. Sounds like I need to be a little more patient and see what happens. I like to workout and push myself but I need to still realize I am only ( weeks out of OHS. As for the Holter monitor I reached out to my care team to see how long I would have to wear it. My appointment is not till July 11th so I got some time to figure things out. Hopefully I can do all those tests closer to home.
rich monoson Mike, I went to cardiac rehab for three sessions before I couldn't take it anymore. I went to comply ... Read more
rich monoson Mike, I went to cardiac rehab for three sessions before I couldn't take it anymore. I went to comply with my cardiologists request that I go. They had me on the treadmill at 3mph at an elevation of 2 for 16 minutes. At my gym I'm going 3.5 and an elevation of 11-12% for 30 minutes. I've been lifting light weights since the third week. I commend you for going 3 times per week but you know what to do and how to push yourself. The cardiac rehab folks were so nice and provide a great service for many but like you Mike, I got a little impatient with the protocol and knew what I was doing was the only way for me. I'm getting used to that mechanical apparatus in my chest and amazed how well the heart works when pushing myself. Really enjoy your experiences and updates as well as all the incredible people on this site!
Naomi Gray Mike - I'm glad to hear you are doing well, and enjoying being with your family at home again. It's a ... Read more
Naomi Gray Mike - I'm glad to hear you are doing well, and enjoying being with your family at home again. It's awesome that you are already doing the cardiac rehab 3 times a week and walking a lot everyday. I haven't even started my cardiac rehab yet. There's no place offering a cardiac rehab nearby, and I'm arranging a way to substitute it with the local physical therapy with a help from my cardiac surgeon's office. But based on what you mention, I might end up going on my own and workout after some sessions at PT. I'll keep you posted.
Got a call yesterday from Cardio Rehab and they said I can get in today. Ready to go and get this started. I can start driving next week also so going to the ...Read more
Got a call yesterday from Cardio Rehab and they said I can get in today. Ready to go and get this started. I can start driving next week also so going to the gym is right around the corner. Can’t weight lift which sucks but when the weather gets bad at least I have a backup plan now.
Joey Hardee YES SIR!!! Getting back to the gym is gonna feel fantastic, I'm sure. Have they given you a guesstima ... Read more
Joey Hardee YES SIR!!! Getting back to the gym is gonna feel fantastic, I'm sure. Have they given you a guesstimate on when you might be able to start weight training again?
Sam Durphy Sr Absolutely! You will feel great, start slow, give yourself time to establish your new norm
Kevin Bradley Awesome news! I am not sure why my rehab is starting so late. My first appt isn’t until June 12th. ... Read more
Kevin Bradley Awesome news! I am not sure why my rehab is starting so late. My first appt isn’t until June 12th. I will be pretty much rehab on my own by then! Hahaha
Michael Greco Lifting weight again will be the next step to attain. Work on what you can do now, and new goalposts ... Read more
Michael Greco Lifting weight again will be the next step to attain. Work on what you can do now, and new goalposts will keep opening up before you. A week ago you couldn’t drive, and the week before that going back to the gym was not on the menu. You’ll get there!
Officially 1 month in the books. It’s been a bumpy road but I am alive and feeling great. Now the countdown begins for going back to work (2 weeks). And getting ...Read more
Officially 1 month in the books. It’s been a bumpy road but I am alive and feeling great. Now the countdown begins for going back to work (2 weeks). And getting back to the gym 4-8 weeks. And getting back to golf 8 weeks and maybe sooner. Weather has been great here in Minnesota so I have been doing 5-7 miles a day walking. My deck is finally stained and ready so I have friends coming today to get all my furniture back up on it. Now my grill will be back upstairs and easier to use. And we can start eating our meals outside. I know it takes time and I am not a patient person but soon enough I can start doing more stuff. Cutting the grass and vacuuming are two things I enjoy and still have to wait to do. Life is great. Thank God for our surgeons and care team to make living longer possible. Yes there are bumps but they come and go pretty quickly and knowing we can live a lot longer is the best feeling. For all my Heart Warriors in recovery keep it up. Battle through the bumps and stay strong. Think positive and be happy. You will get through what you are going through. If you are still waiting keep patient and don’t let anxiety take over. Surgery is not as bad as it might seem and soon you will be in recovery. Keep your head up and focus on your end goals. Set milestones that you want to reach and go for them. Everyday gets better and better just keep setting goals and keep reaching for them. Good Luck and you will be in our families prayers for the best possible outcomes and recoveries.
Tom McDonald It good to have goals set for post surgery, glad to hear you are achieving some of them so soon. That ... Read more
Tom McDonald It good to have goals set for post surgery, glad to hear you are achieving some of them so soon. That is awesome! I have some little ones I would like to hit asap after surgery, mainly walking mile stones at first.
Rose Madura Yes, it is good to have goals. Don't overdue it on golf. The first time I played after surgery, I w ... Read more
Rose Madura Yes, it is good to have goals. Don't overdue it on golf. The first time I played after surgery, I was so sore in my upper chest the next day! But I was not in the best of shape to begin with. It is important not to compare your progress with others. Everyone heals at their own pace. Best wishes.
Susan Lynn Great advice and incredible resilience, Mike. Thanks for sharing! ❤
Adam Pick "Battle the bumps and stay strong." Love that! Thanks so much for sharing your story, your thoughts ... Read more
Adam Pick "Battle the bumps and stay strong." Love that! Thanks so much for sharing your story, your thoughts, your tips and your journey with us Mike!
Nancy Benjamin Thanks for sharing your story and update! I am new to all this and it helps to hear from others! Good ... Read more
Nancy Benjamin Thanks for sharing your story and update! I am new to all this and it helps to hear from others! Good luck with the golf!!!
Christopher May Great post! Yes, life is great! Keep going forward, brother!
Alan Jamieson Yeah! Rocking that recovery like we knew you would. Soon enough we'll be going 100%!
So sleep is getting better since I have been able to control my heart rate. Problem is I fall asleep just fine but wake up in the middle of the night and my ...Read more
So sleep is getting better since I have been able to control my heart rate. Problem is I fall asleep just fine but wake up in the middle of the night and my back is sore. I am not a back sleeper. I was wondering when I can start sleeping on my side because that would be a game changer in my sleep. Anyone get told when they can sleep on their sides? Don’t want to mess up the sternum while it is healing.
Diane Maher My surgeon said not until my eight week checkup. For the first 4 weeks I slept comfortably in a recl ... Read more
Diane Maher My surgeon said not until my eight week checkup. For the first 4 weeks I slept comfortably in a recliner and then when I moved into our bed I used several pillows behind me. Hope you find a comfortable solution soon😊
Marie Myers I asked the side sleeping question also. One person said they could sleep on their side in 2 weeks, ... Read more
Marie Myers I asked the side sleeping question also. One person said they could sleep on their side in 2 weeks, and some people said 2 months. I think I was comfortable at 6-8 weeks to sleep on my side. It was a real relief to get off my back! Hang in there, and you will be on your side soon!
Christopher May I was only cut halfway down my sternum. I could side sleep at about two weeks.
Jennifer Barnett I think it was at about eight weeks for me. I sleep comfortably on my back before that with a three p ... Read more
Jennifer Barnett I think it was at about eight weeks for me. I sleep comfortably on my back before that with a three pillow set up at home but I do remember bad back pain in hospital for about a week after the surgery. In time everything becomes normal again and you will feel better and better.
Barbara Wood My surgeon said I could side sleep whenever it felt comfortabIe. I started sleeping partially on my s ... Read more
Barbara Wood My surgeon said I could side sleep whenever it felt comfortabIe. I started sleeping partially on my side 8 days after surgery & fully after about 2 weeks. I found back sleeping nearly impossible. But I would ask my doc, opinions vary widely on this:)! For the record, I had a full sternotomy & it healed perfectly & quickly.
Rose Madura I don't remember how many weeks it was for me before I slept on my side but I do remember it was quit ... Read more
Rose Madura I don't remember how many weeks it was for me before I slept on my side but I do remember it was quite an adjustment sleeping on my back. I had a wedge but I found that pillows worked best for me. I also fell asleep well but would wake up after a few hours. I would end up in the recliner until morning. I remember napping a lot. Now I start on my side but turn on my back without any issues so I've adjusted well.
Noreen Kitchen No one ever told me I couldn’t sleep on my side or maybe they did and I blocked it out. I propped s ... Read more
Noreen Kitchen No one ever told me I couldn’t sleep on my side or maybe they did and I blocked it out. I propped some pillows at my back and a few to rest my arms on so that my sternum was protected. I also hugged a long narrow pillow against my sternum while I slept. It was quite to production getting set my bit it was better than sleeping on my back.
Catie B I was told by cardiac nurse at discharge not to lay on my side for eight weeks....
Rita Savelis I was told that if I wanted to sleep on my side I could do it whenever I wanted to. It was up to me. ... Read more
Rita Savelis I was told that if I wanted to sleep on my side I could do it whenever I wanted to. It was up to me. I never had a restriction. I didn't feel like sleeping on my side for awhile though.... And then I just gradually eased into it. I say do what feels right on your body. And as I've said before, one of the "skills" I gained from OHS is the ability to now sleep comfortably on my back....
leslie terjesen I never had a restriction either. It's been 3 months and one week since OHS, I think I was on my sid ... Read more
leslie terjesen I never had a restriction either. It's been 3 months and one week since OHS, I think I was on my side with a wedge 5 days after I got home so that's almost 2 weeks post op. Although i was not a back sleeper, i find now i am quite comfy on my back
Mike Roskowinski Thanks everyone for your input. Seems like it’s a mix of what to do. I did have the smaller incisio ... Read more
Mike Roskowinski Thanks everyone for your input. Seems like it’s a mix of what to do. I did have the smaller incision so it maybe healing faster. I meet with my cardiologist on June 11th so maybe I can ask him what he thinks. For now I will just push through till 6-8 weeks or whatever he says on June 11th. If my back hurts in bed I have been laying on my side for a few minutes to help relieve the pain for a bit. I will just keep on trucking along as it is 4 weeks today. 8 weeks away from going to the gym and golf. So ready to get my life back. Maybe at cardio rehab they say I can start back early at the gym and I will be ecstatic.
Suzanne Lunsford The nurses helped me lay on my left side while still in the hospital due to my back pain. I could onl ... Read more
Suzanne Lunsford The nurses helped me lay on my left side while still in the hospital due to my back pain. I could only manage it for a short time. Now i am able to sleep on my right side for a while comfortably. I guess it just depends on your comfort level.
Sommer Russell I hated sleeping on my back! Though I found comfort thinking this is good for my face not pushing wr ... Read more
Sommer Russell I hated sleeping on my back! Though I found comfort thinking this is good for my face not pushing wrinkles up on them. Haha. Someone on here did say that they were told to wait as long as possible because sleeping on your side and the position it puts on your sternum caused arthritis down the road. That didn't sound fun. I got pretty use to sleeping on my back with time.
So on Monday I will be officially at the 1 month mark. It has been quite the journey this last month and glad things are finally getting back to normal. I miss ...Read more
So on Monday I will be officially at the 1 month mark. It has been quite the journey this last month and glad things are finally getting back to normal. I miss the gym and working out. I miss golf, volleyball and pickle ball. I am so ready to get back to being the active guy I was post surgery. This past week and a half I have been walking 5 miles a day. The kids love it and especially the dog. He is like this is awesome another walk. I need to get my heart healthy diet started better but it’s been hard with so many people bringing us meals. My leftovers have leftovers. I am getting kind of bored sitting around so since I work from home I asked my care team if I can go back to work early. I am off right now till the 16th but not feeling like I need it. I would like to start back next week so I will see what they say. June 5th starts my cardio rehab and that has me excited to be a few steps closer to going back to the gym. My cardiologist put me on metropol last week and I can finally get some sleep at night. It is amazing how much that can help your heart rate. I was wondering when I can start pushing and pulling things cause I would really like to help out with chores and vacuuming is one that I like to do. I help with dishes and meal prep but with my weight restrictions I am limited to what I can do. Thanks for everyone that has sent me messages and been there with me through this journey. It is true there are lots of ups and downs but knowing I can live a longer life is all worth it. All of you in the waiting room it is harder than recovery. I hope and pray that all the upcoming surgeries go well and get to join us on the recovery side.
Susan Lynn Mike - You have made tremendous progress in your first two weeks out of the hospital. Absolutely am ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - You have made tremendous progress in your first two weeks out of the hospital. Absolutely amazing! Work can be a great diversion, but I would recommend you ramp up a little at a time. The biggest surprise for me after OHS was the exhaustion. It lasted longer than I expected, so I really needed a quick nap to get through the day.
Continued success!
Bradley Dunn Alright man.
You did it..I have to Google pickle ball.
Naomi Gray Mike, it's great to hear that you are recovering well. I'm glad that you are getting more sleep. I di ... Read more
Naomi Gray Mike, it's great to hear that you are recovering well. I'm glad that you are getting more sleep. I didn't realize that metoprolol can make such a big difference. Way to go!
Mava Reif So good to hear your post! Glad you are sleeping better now. God bless.
Heidi Rockwood Mike, it’s so good to hear you are that active already! I too had to google pickle ball!
Joey Hardee Awesome update, Mike! You are rocking it out. Sounds like you are making great progress and already a ... Read more
Joey Hardee Awesome update, Mike! You are rocking it out. Sounds like you are making great progress and already ahead of the game for cardiac rehab, if you are logging 5 miles a day. How's your pace? How much do you walk each time? I have set a goal to play some tennis 3 months post op and run a 5K 5 months post op. Gonna really push myself to make that happen. Could you have started cardiac rehab sooner or is this about rhe right time (4-5 weeks post-op)? Thanks for updating, man. I'm thrilled for you!
Kevin Bradley Great update, Mike! I can’t believe my “vacation” is over!! I start work Monday. I am actually ... Read more
Kevin Bradley Great update, Mike! I can’t believe my “vacation” is over!! I start work Monday. I am actually excited to get back to work and more of a normal life. As I continue to get back to normal I’ve been slacking on visiting this site. I would definitely like to keep in touch especially on the PS4.
Sleep sucks
I was wondering if anyone has had the same experience as me at bed time. I have been walking a lot and maybe taking a little nap through the day ...Read more
Sleep sucks
I was wondering if anyone has had the same experience as me at bed time. I have been walking a lot and maybe taking a little nap through the day to try and sleep at night times. When I go to bed I am super tired and seem to fall asleep right away. But usually about an hour after I fall asleep I wake up and have to go use the restroom. After that it gets really hard to fall back asleep as my heart rate goes into the upper 90s and even to 100. Eventually I settle down and fall back asleep but that takes up to 45 minutes. I am wondering if I need to talk to my cardiologist to be on Metropol in the evenings. With the walking and daily activities I see that my daytime heart rate has been getting better but it is the nights that are so bad. One thing is I also hate sleeping on my back and that is all I can do for now. Plus sometimes when I wake in the middle of the night I am overdressed and hot so I wonder if that also causes my heart rate to go up. Any advice would be great.
Mike Roskowinski I also now have a mechanical valve that I never had before. I went from monocuspid valve to a new mec ... Read more
Mike Roskowinski I also now have a mechanical valve that I never had before. I went from monocuspid valve to a new mechanical so I am sure more blood is pumping.
Marie Myers Yes, that was my experience also. I could fall asleep quickly, but would wake up 3-4 hrs later. I did ... Read more
Marie Myers Yes, that was my experience also. I could fall asleep quickly, but would wake up 3-4 hrs later. I did not have the increasing heart rate experience, but I have been on 12.5 mg metoprolol twice a day since surgery. You could ask about that.
I finally asked for a prescription sleeping pill (temazepam 15 mg) and I limit myself to twice a week so I don’t get tolerant of it. My sleep has improved since surgery, but it is Still an issue for me.
Things did improve Once I could sleep on my side. Hope you find the same thing. Hang in there- it is a slow process..
Rita Savelis It took me 6 weeks to learn how to sleep on my back (it's now a skill I've retained 4 yrs later). I r ... Read more
Rita Savelis It took me 6 weeks to learn how to sleep on my back (it's now a skill I've retained 4 yrs later). I recommend taking sleep meds occasionally (something I was very reticent to do, but one's body does need sleep to heal and my doctor recommended that I occasionally take them). I woke up many times at 3am and then laid there awake until the morning. During that kind of quiet time you will be aware of your heart and think all kinds of thoughts. It's hard. And your temperature can be off. I was often freezing in the middle of summer. Metrapolol will not help you sleep. I wish I had a magical answer/cure for you but it's not so much about your heart rate going down, as you becoming okay with it. It's still so very very early and your body is reacting to everything that happened when your heart was traumatised by surgery. Your heart is doing what it can, at its own pace, to get better. Take care.
Joy Vera Yes, it is so hard to get comfortable & even more so when you don't like sleeping on your back, like ... Read more
Joy Vera Yes, it is so hard to get comfortable & even more so when you don't like sleeping on your back, like you, like me. I stayed in the hospital longer this time too & wonder if my system didn't just get used to the constant wake-ups for this or that that occur in the hospital. I've been out a little more than 2 weeks now though & do feel like I'm resting better as time passes. Napping during the day is something that pretty much ensures I won't sleep as well at night. Things should get better with time.
V Olsen I did go to a sleep clinic a few years before my valve surgery. 1) No TV or computer for 2 hours b ... Read more
V Olsen I did go to a sleep clinic a few years before my valve surgery. 1) No TV or computer for 2 hours before sleeping 2) Take magnesium at night. I take it together in a calcium pill. This stops leg twitches. 3) Warm bath at night. As your body cools you may fall asleep. I hope this helps!
Joey Hardee This is something I worry about. I am a side sleeper and sleeping on my back is gonna be a problem. I ... Read more
Joey Hardee This is something I worry about. I am a side sleeper and sleeping on my back is gonna be a problem. I am worried I will unconsciously turn onto my side and cause myself all sorts of issues. How long before you can sleep on your side? I would think that would be a big help. I also think the mild apnea I have on my side will be way worse on my back. I know that can cause a heart rate increase. Hope things get better, Mike.
Meredith Bray Ug, trying to get some good sleep was the BANE of my first week at home! I was so nervous I was going ... Read more
Meredith Bray Ug, trying to get some good sleep was the BANE of my first week at home! I was so nervous I was going to roll over and split my incision open and just wreck all the work the surgeons did on me! I don't think I relaxed and got good sleep until week 2. That's when I got a travel pillow - on of those goofy U-shaped ones. The first time I used it in my recliner I think I slept solid for 4 hours. I also wedged some bed pillows under my arms, so my shoulders weren't bearing the arm weight. I'll tell ya, I think that might have been the most productive sleep I've ever had! Note - there's NO WAY I could have slept flat on my back after surgery. I felt like I was suffocating. It was hard to breathe and my neck wouldn't relax. So definitely propped up and make sure your head/shoulders/arms are supported. I asked my surgeon about side sleeping, and he said, "You'll know when you can handle it." I think it at the end of the 3rd week home that I started propping myself toward my left side. My chest cavity felt sloshy like jello in ziploc bags (eww!) but each night I felt a little more comfortable and moved farther on my side. (My surgeon also told me that I would know when I could ride a roller coaster, and when I could have sex, and go kayaking - and he was right. Although the first time for each of those I felt like I held my breath until I knew I wasn't going to explode haha.)
It's been three months and one week since my aortic valve replacement. I remember being so uncomfortable in my hospital bed that I asked the nurse if I could sleep on my side and she said YES. But too uncomfy to turn over. I guess I had it easy as I could turn on my side, sort of by leaning on a pillow, about a week after I got home. Sleeping in the recliner was horrible except for napping during the day watching TV. I was told by my surgeon and my cardiologist at home that taking a Tylenol PM before bed is fine. Also, my doctor doubled my beta blocker, Bystolic, to ten MG as my heart rate always seemed over 100 and now down to 70s and 80s. And I think cardiac rehab is definitely helping that. Give it time, things get normal after awhile!
Dan Baltazor I struggled as well. It took time for everything to smooth out, heart rate and regulating body tempe ... Read more
Dan Baltazor I struggled as well. It took time for everything to smooth out, heart rate and regulating body temperature included. i took 10mg(dose per my Dr.) of melatonin every night for sleep aid. it did help. It is a great milestone when you reach the time when you can sleep on your side again. Hang in there.
Everyday gets better
Since coming home from the hospital on Tuesday after my terrible two week stay things seem to be getting better. I got in nearly 5000 ...Read more
Everyday gets better
Since coming home from the hospital on Tuesday after my terrible two week stay things seem to be getting better. I got in nearly 5000 steps yesterday after going and doing some grocery shopping. Since being gone the last two weeks my wife has been so busy and did not get the chance to make it to the grocery store. INR levels are still a little low but I am working to get those within range. I am back to my normal diet so that should help figure out my dosage. Talked to the cardiologist yesterday and they do not want to put me on metoprolol for some reason. My heart rate seems to be getting back to reasonable for me. I have not had much pain so I am grateful that the pain meds are staying in the bottle. I lost 13 pounds since my surgery which seems like a lot to loose in 2 weeks but then again my diet and appetite were not there. And the C Diff did not help. I have slept in bed since being home and use my recliner for naps throughout the day. It’s been a little rainy here so far so I have not had many chances to go on walks. This evening and weekend are looking good so I am excited to get out and walk. Cardio rehab called yesterday and they are wanting me to start on June 5th which is really exciting for me. I want to get back into the gym and start working out. I know I have a few more weeks left till my sternum is fully healed but praying the time goes fast. I have not yet sat down to write about my two weeks since I have been home and this is my longest post yet. Everyone thank you for your thoughts and prayers as mine are also with all my fellow OHS warriors. For those still waiting to go to surgery the waiting does suck but once your in recovery it is amazing to see how your body gets better daily.
rich monoson Beautiful post Mike. That's what I was waiting to hear.
Susan Lynn Fantastic news, Mike! Glad you're doing so well. You've bounced back beautifully from those unexp ... Read more
Susan Lynn Fantastic news, Mike! Glad you're doing so well. You've bounced back beautifully from those unexpected complications and have maintained your positive attitude! Continued success!
Joey Hardee This is fantastic! Great news! Keep rocking it out, Mike. Will keep on praying your improvement accel ... Read more
Joey Hardee This is fantastic! Great news! Keep rocking it out, Mike. Will keep on praying your improvement accelerates!
Joy Vera Great news, Mike. So glad to read that things have taken such a positive direction.
Mary Weiler Great news. Once home things go much better. Don't be surprised if you are suddenly hit with incision ... Read more
Mary Weiler Great news. Once home things go much better. Don't be surprised if you are suddenly hit with incision pain in a few weeks when the nerves reconnect so to speak. Sleeping will get easier too. Remember that all your routines were disrupted by the surgery and hospital stay. Keep up the positive attitude; it will help tremendously as you recover
Kevin Bradley So glad you are doing much better Mike. You’ll be back to normal in no time. Keep it up.
Tom McDonald Mike,
Glad to hear things are beginning to get better for you. Keep grinding ahead. June 5th will be ... Read more
Tom McDonald Mike,
Glad to hear things are beginning to get better for you. Keep grinding ahead. June 5th will be a great day for both of us, you'll start cardiac rehab and I'll be on the recovery side. Take care and rest easy.
Diane Esposito Soooo good to hear of your improvements, Mike! You needed some good things happening after such a cr ... Read more
Diane Esposito Soooo good to hear of your improvements, Mike! You needed some good things happening after such a crazy 2 weeks; I noticed the weight loss and you look great! I’ll be starting cardiac next week too so I’ll have you and Tom for company!
Scott Ainsworth Good work Mike! OHS is like an elephant and the best way to eat an elephant is bite by bite! I was in ... Read more
Scott Ainsworth Good work Mike! OHS is like an elephant and the best way to eat an elephant is bite by bite! I was in hospital for 4 weeks after my MVR and double bypass with lung collpasment and severe pneumonia. I also had Afib and flutter issues which have seen me undergo recently a cardioversion and only last Friday a Cardiac Ablation for several hours under a general anaesthetic. Although I had my OHS in March, I see today the true start of my rehab and are looking forward to becoming stronger each day. You’ve got this mate!
Heidi Rockwood Mike, so nice to hear you are starting rehab and beginning normal activities!
Mava Reif So good to hear your good report. God bless you!
Scott Ainsworth Awesome report Mike! You’ve got this one in the bag mate!
First night home was kind of rough. I think I may have had an anxiety attack at bed time cause my heart rate went high and I could not sleep. I finally took ...Read more
First night home was kind of rough. I think I may have had an anxiety attack at bed time cause my heart rate went high and I could not sleep. I finally took some melatonin and got 3 hours of sleep in. Is this normal for me to pay so much attention to my heart rate at bedtime? I am not on any beta blockers just some blood pressure medicine. It was the hardest part at the hospital to sleep cause I could feel and hear my heartbeat. Should I talk to my cardiologist about some Beta Blockers
Adam Pick Mike, I can relate to so much of what you're experiencing - the sleepless nights, the high heart rate ... Read more
Adam Pick Mike, I can relate to so much of what you're experiencing - the sleepless nights, the high heart rate, the anxiety, all of it. Sleep is so very important now (and always). You've been through a lot. Late at night, when you're in bed, it's hard not to think about all that has happened and all that remains unknown. However, know this... Your medical team would not have let you go home if you were not ready for that big step. Now, it is time to try and relax your mind and let your body heal. That said, if you are concerned about anything... Call your doctor. It's always better to be safe than sorry. The first few weeks after my surgery, I definitely called Dr. Starnes' office just to make sure all was well. I encourage you to do the same. My thoughts and prayers are with you. You got this Mike!!! And, thanks for sharing your journey with us!!!!
Joy Vera Glad you're home, Mike. Yes, I'd talk to my cardiologist about beta blockers. I went home with them ... Read more
Joy Vera Glad you're home, Mike. Yes, I'd talk to my cardiologist about beta blockers. I went home with them on both of my surgeries. It's hard to say what's normal for each of us sleep-wise but I've found that, for me, a relaxation recording helps. I use one that's yoga-oriented but you can find others, I'm sure. Doing it late in the afternoon or early evening helps calm one's nervous system down for the night ahead.
Catie B Wonderful post to you from Adam! Mike, I'm sorry to hear it was a tough night and that you've been f ... Read more
Catie B Wonderful post to you from Adam! Mike, I'm sorry to hear it was a tough night and that you've been feeling anxious. It's more than understandable. And being super aware of your heartbeat is normal. For the first few weeks/months, it felt like my heart was beating extremely hard, just rocking my chest and it seemed to amplify when I would lay down. I think everything feels different and scary for awhile and it takes time to adjust to the new normal. And hearts take time to settle down after surgery. But if something doesn't seem right to you, it never hurts to call and get some assurance if you need it! Hope you have a gentle day!
rich monoson Mike, welcome home. Its strange being home with no monitors or nurses always present for any concern ... Read more
rich monoson Mike, welcome home. Its strange being home with no monitors or nurses always present for any concern or irregularity you experience. Mike, I'm certainly not a medical doctor but Metoprolol is great for reducing heart rate and also as an anti-arrhythmic. Definitely ask your cardiologist if a beta blocker is indicated. Be careful when standing up. On 25mg Metoprolol I hit the deck twice from standing up too quickly. I cut the dose to half. Mike, you're going to experience weird stuff with the new valve. I felt and still do like there's an alien in my chest. It's different but it works well. Laying in bed my heart beat feels like it rocks the entire bed. We have earthquakes out here and my heartbeat/bed jolting feels like a 3.5 earthquake. Mike, you're home! So happy you are done with the surgery and now in the rehab phase. You made it brother!!
Mike Roskowinski Thank you everyone for your input. During the days I feel just fine everything seems to come up at be ... Read more
Mike Roskowinski Thank you everyone for your input. During the days I feel just fine everything seems to come up at bedtime. It happened in the hospital and my first night home. I was unable to sleep during my hospital stay since my heart felt like this. Also before heart surgery I ran in the 50s for my resting heart rate. And in the evenings when I would go to bed I would be in the 40s. So this new heart rate is something that I need to get used to.
Alan Jamieson It's the first step. In the quiet of the night, it's hard not to "hear" your heart going. My heart ra ... Read more
Alan Jamieson It's the first step. In the quiet of the night, it's hard not to "hear" your heart going. My heart rate didn't dip below 100 until after the first week, and it didn't dip below 90 until yesterday! My resting wasn't as low as yours pre-op, but still, it's a shocker (which in turn gets your heart rate going more). It'll settle down before long. I'm just glad you're home with your family. God bless my man.
Mark Jaycox Hey Mike, glad to hear your finally home. Things will get better every day, hang in there!
Lea Parker Hi Mike,
I can relate very much to how you feel. It's good to be home, but then it hits you -- you ... Read more
Lea Parker Hi Mike,
I can relate very much to how you feel. It's good to be home, but then it hits you -- you are "untethered" from the hospital monitors! I certainly asked myself "what if something goes wrong?" Honestly, it took awhile before I could go to sleep without thinking about my heart. Deep down I think I worried I wouldn't wake up. It's a big deal to have a part of your heart replaced. Besides, I could never get comfortable! Home recovery is part of it -- and working through these new emotions is challenging. I encourage you to look for a group like Mended Hearts (Mendedhearts.org) and find others who have been there. I specifically remember asking my husband to watch me as I sat on the couch - seemed my whole body flinched with each heartbeat. When I called the doctor, he said, "when we fixed your valve, it's like wild horses were set free." While I smiled, it didn't help with the fact that my heart felt like it was beating out of my chest at times. I worked with my cardiologist's office and adjusted medications (Metoprolol) to get it right --- sometimes it was beating so hard and other times, I felt my pulse be really slow. My advice, share any and ALL questions you have with your doctor or nursing staff -- there is no need to suffer and wonder -- share your concerns and get advice. It takes a bit of time before you can even get comfortable, but you do need to sleep and rest as best as you can. Walk and get a little fresh air -- always helps the mood....we all know what you are going through and are here!
Lea
Kevin Bradley I know it’s going to be hard, but try to relax. I was the same way when I first arrived home becaus ... Read more
Kevin Bradley I know it’s going to be hard, but try to relax. I was the same way when I first arrived home because you become so in tuned with your body more than ever! It definitely gets better.
Diane Esposito Mike, I still get fast or irregular heartbeats and I notice them when I’m quiet or resting. It’s ... Read more
Diane Esposito Mike, I still get fast or irregular heartbeats and I notice them when I’m quiet or resting. It’s unnerving. My surgeon’s RN said that ones heart rate will rise as one gets more active; Kevin is right about the fact that we’ve gotten more attuned to our bodies and so we notice everything. Don’t be afraid to call the doctor with questions!
William Trankle The first few WEEKS at home are a bit scary, and I noticed every beat of my new valve. I also notic ... Read more
William Trankle The first few WEEKS at home are a bit scary, and I noticed every beat of my new valve. I also noticed that my pulse rate was higher than it ever had been prior to surgery (my cardiac nurses all rolled their eyes when I complained about it on my check-ups). After 6 years, my pulse is back to normal, and irregular beats are so rare that I don't even worry about them now. Keep trucking, and all will settle down. Remember, you just experienced the trauma equivalent to getting shot and hit by a car at the same time!
Susan Lynn It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. (My apologies for the plagiarism.) That's how I ... Read more
Susan Lynn It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. (My apologies for the plagiarism.) That's how I would describe the first few days at home after OHS. Of course, you're thrilled to be there and your family is ecstatic to have you at home, but the reality finally sets in of everything that's happened and that can be pretty sobering. But, the good news is, if you're feeling good during the day, then feeling better at night should be easily achievable.
When I got home from the hospital, I didn't live my life by the clock. If I wanted to sleep during the day, I did. If I wanted to watch TV at night, I did. I probably did more cat napping than actual continuous sleeping - but it was fine. Don't put any pressure on yourself to immediately resume your schedule - you'll get back to it when you're ready. It's not going anywhere. In the meantime, don't make bedtime an event. For the next few weeks, just make it one of your activities (like eating and walking) subject to your own motivation and scheduling!
You'll continue to notice improvement every day. Until then, pamper yourself and do what you want, when you want to do it. You'll be back to normal in your own time frame. Your body will tell you what to do. Trust it and stay positive. Better days are ahead, Mike!
Mava Reif I think nights have been the worst part for me. Somehow when it's supposed to be peaceful & quiet, r ... Read more
Mava Reif I think nights have been the worst part for me. Somehow when it's supposed to be peaceful & quiet, regardless of how exhausted I am, the nights can be just unendingly miserable. I dreaded nights. I think your body has been through so much, & your mind & spirit are trying to come to grips with it all. You're doing amazingly well for all you've been through! Just be patient & kind with yourself. Don't compare your recovery with anyone else's. So glad you're home with your family!
Richard Tilton After surgery I was much more relax. from TAVR knowing the bright side it wasn't SAVR( open heart ... Read more
Richard Tilton After surgery I was much more relax. from TAVR knowing the bright side it wasn't SAVR( open heart } and at home I could be more comfortable. I worried more about the groin area where they went into the artery for TAVR.
The thought of sleeping in my own bed was a comfort. I had confidence in my Structal Heart Team of what they said before and after Aorta TAVR. Don't be afraid to talk to your heart team after surgery to ans your concerns
Richard Tilton After surgery I was much more relax. from TAVR knowing the bright side it wasn't SAVR( open heart ... Read more
Richard Tilton After surgery I was much more relax. from TAVR knowing the bright side it wasn't SAVR( open heart } and at home I could be more comfortable. I worried more about the groin area where they went into the artery for TAVR.
The thought of sleeping in my own bed was a comfort. I had confidence in my Structal Heart Team of what they said before and after Aorta TAVR. Don't be afraid to talk to your heart team after surgery to ans your concerns
Barbara Wood Glad you're home Mike! Sleeping at night was hard for me too, I dreaded nighttime. I took lots of sho ... Read more
Barbara Wood Glad you're home Mike! Sleeping at night was hard for me too, I dreaded nighttime. I took lots of short catnaps for the first few weeks home to make up for the lack of nighttime sleep. It takes time for your body clock to readjust. Best wishes, hang in there, it gets better!
Willie Radl Glad to hear you are home Mike. I didn't have beta blockers either and I remember being nervous the f ... Read more
Willie Radl Glad to hear you are home Mike. I didn't have beta blockers either and I remember being nervous the first few nights home from the hospital. You will slowly get confidence back and eventually start sleeping better. My heart rate was elevated for quite a while post op I'd say months maybe 4-6 and I don't think I got back to normalish until about a year later. We do recover quick but I think to get back to a true 💯 takes quite a while.
Rita Savelis Yeah. I hear you Mike. It can be hard to sleep for weeks/months after OHS, in hospital or at home. Wh ... Read more
Rita Savelis Yeah. I hear you Mike. It can be hard to sleep for weeks/months after OHS, in hospital or at home. When things are quiet at night one is aware of one's heartbeat more. It's different, and will remain different, but at some point you will get used to it and you'll be less affected by it. This takes time. You've been through an ordeal, especially hard for you, and emotionally there is a lot to get over and work through. You'd like to think it's all over, but healing takes time. Most heart rates will be much higher after OHS, no matter how low they were before or how good shape you are in. It's not about you. It's your heart that has been traumatised, and is doing what it can after what it's been through. It's true that betablockers are often prescribed to give hearts a rest after surgery and to slow them down temporarily. But betablockers have side effects too so you'll have to trust your doctors to make decisions that are right for you and your specific case. Wishing you some peace and some sleep. Take care.
Dan Baltazor My whole body shook with each heart beat after surgery. It felt so powerful. it was disturbing my s ... Read more
Dan Baltazor My whole body shook with each heart beat after surgery. It felt so powerful. it was disturbing my sleep and mental state. It eventually calms down with healing. Hang in there. None of this is easy and it feels like a slow process.
Great news Mike!
Hope you do get out of that hospital tomorrow.
Home is where the heart is! (no pu ... Read more
Great news Mike!
Hope you do get out of that hospital tomorrow.
Home is where the heart is! (no pun intended. Lol)
Peace and blessings to you and your family!
Tom McDonald Mike,
Glad to hear the pacemaker is in. Hope you get to go home tomorrow.
Diane Esposito Hopefully this will be a turning point for you.
Naomi Gray So nice to hear that you are going home!
Joy Vera Glad to see this. You've paid your dues & then some, Mike.
Catie B I'm glad that's taken care of. So good you're nearly out the door now!
Claire Kreger-Boaz Mike, wow, you've had a rough couple of weeks! I'm so relieved to read that the C-diff cleared up, I ... Read more
Claire Kreger-Boaz Mike, wow, you've had a rough couple of weeks! I'm so relieved to read that the C-diff cleared up, I know that can be nasty and can't imagine dealing with that while recovering from OHS. You are a champ! I hope you get to go home tomorrow! Hang in there, man. I know how hard this is on you and your family b/c we are struggling as well.
Michael Greco Hoping everything went well, and you’re comfortable at home by now!
Mary Weiler Still sending healing energy. Hope the road is smoother once you get home.
Gregory Ballard Mike that is great news. Sorry you had so many complications but on the positive side you gave your ... Read more
Gregory Ballard Mike that is great news. Sorry you had so many complications but on the positive side you gave your heart even more time to heal. You can now get home with family and rest. Thanks for keeping us updated as your heart warriors family has been praying for you and your family.
Christopher May Sounds like you about have this over with and get to go home. Keep pushing forward!
Ok all today is pacemaker placement day. Hopefully the last day of stuff and I can go home tomorrow. It’s been so long and I miss home so bad. My wife and ...Read more
Ok all today is pacemaker placement day. Hopefully the last day of stuff and I can go home tomorrow. It’s been so long and I miss home so bad. My wife and kids both broke down crying last night cause they want me home. I need to be home.
Rita Savelis Much empathy for you Mike, as you wait to go home.
One of these days (weeks from now, when you have ... Read more
Rita Savelis Much empathy for you Mike, as you wait to go home.
One of these days (weeks from now, when you have some resting time) maybe you'll post a photo of your pacemaker, so I'm not the only one on this site who showed what a pacemaker bulge looks like. Take care. Hang in there.
Robert Wilbourn Will have you and your family in my prayers.
Kevin Bradley Yes you do Mike. Home helps the recovery process much better. Good luck with the pacemaker. Keep your ... Read more
Kevin Bradley Yes you do Mike. Home helps the recovery process much better. Good luck with the pacemaker. Keep your head up man. You are doing great for what you have been through.
Susan Lynn Mike - I can't even imagine the stress you and your family have endured over these last few weeks. ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - I can't even imagine the stress you and your family have endured over these last few weeks. You're all stronger than you probably thought! I'm sure it's difficult to think in these terms right now, but you've made an investment in yourself by undergoing heart surgery and everything that came along with it. Because you did, your wife and children will enjoy an active, healthier you for decades and decades to come. The trip was definitely filled with more detours than you planned, but you have reached your destination. You'll leave the hospital tomorrow knowing that there are wonderful adventures ahead because you were strong and smart to make this choice. Believe in your resilience! ❤
Elaine Cutri Prayers and healing thoughts for you and your family.
Joey Hardee Man I hate that you have had such struggles and that your family has been through so much too. I am m ... Read more
Joey Hardee Man I hate that you have had such struggles and that your family has been through so much too. I am most concerned about my wife and girls, so I am with you. Sorry its been so trying. I am hoping it makes your homecoming that much sweeter. Continuing to pray for you and yours!
Debbie Kelly Hi Mike, I am so sorry that you have had setbacks, especially at your young age. But, things will lo ... Read more
Debbie Kelly Hi Mike, I am so sorry that you have had setbacks, especially at your young age. But, things will look better, in time. When you get home and are with your family, you can start your new beginning. Praying for you and your family. God bless you.
Mike, I'm so sorry you have had to endure a rough beginning in you recovery and I can only imagine ho ... Read more
Mike, I'm so sorry you have had to endure a rough beginning in you recovery and I can only imagine how you and your family are feeling.
Take courage though my fellow heart warrior. Your hospital stay is not indefinite. You will be going home to your family and all of you will just love and hug up on each other like never before. You have that to look forward to and hopefully it will be soon.
Rest up soldier. You're gonna need strength to stand up under all the hugs and tears of joy when you get home! 😊
Peace and blessings to you and your family!
Diane Esposito Mike, you’ve been such a brave warrior through all of this and I’ll bet that once you’re home y ... Read more
Diane Esposito Mike, you’ve been such a brave warrior through all of this and I’ll bet that once you’re home you’ll do better surrounded by the love of your family. You’ve made the best decision you can right now to make sure you and your family have those decades together that Susan Lynn mentioned. What could be sweeter?
Mava Reif My heart aches for your whole family! Sending healing thoughts & prayers your way.
Family spent the weekend with me at the hospital which was nice. C Diff is finally cleared and my colon is back to normal. Pacemaker Monday coming tomorrow ...Read more
Family spent the weekend with me at the hospital which was nice. C Diff is finally cleared and my colon is back to normal. Pacemaker Monday coming tomorrow and then finally get to go home Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. So ready to get back home and move on.
Catie B It sounds like a real ordeal! I am sooo sorry for the CDiff! It's so good to hear that a discharge d ... Read more
Catie B It sounds like a real ordeal! I am sooo sorry for the CDiff! It's so good to hear that a discharge date is right on the horizon. Hope the time with your family boosted your spirits!
Alan Jamieson Chin up - you'll be out soon! I know it's been tough, but the worst of it is behind you and you'll be ... Read more
Alan Jamieson Chin up - you'll be out soon! I know it's been tough, but the worst of it is behind you and you'll be moving on soon! I'll be sending you positive vibes and prayers!
Marie Myers I am so sorry you had complications, and had to be in hospital so long. Getting home will be all the ... Read more
Marie Myers I am so sorry you had complications, and had to be in hospital so long. Getting home will be all the more wonderful!,
Tracy Fallu How wonderful to have family visit! You are a trooper! I am sorry to hear about your complications.
Joey Hardee Wow Mike. Sorry you have had so much to deal with. Glad the C Diff cleared. You are truly a Heart War ... Read more
Joey Hardee Wow Mike. Sorry you have had so much to deal with. Glad the C Diff cleared. You are truly a Heart Warrior, bud! Keep the faith. You are getting better! Exciting to have your discharge day in sight!
Tom McDonald Mike,
Sorry to hear of the C-diff, I know what you are going through as I had C-diff a few years a ... Read more
Tom McDonald Mike,
Sorry to hear of the C-diff, I know what you are going through as I had C-diff a few years ago myself, and is not fun. Hopefully it is getting better. Certain antibiotics kill off the good bacteria you need in y our digestive system. Hang in there.
Susan Lynn Mike - Thrilled to hear you'll be home soon. You're a real trooper! Wishing the remainder of your ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - Thrilled to hear you'll be home soon. You're a real trooper! Wishing the remainder of your recovery is easy and uneventful. Keep those spirits high!! ❤
Kevin Bradley Mike, glad to hear things are getting better and you’ll be home soon. My continued thought and pray ... Read more
Kevin Bradley Mike, glad to hear things are getting better and you’ll be home soon. My continued thought and prayers are with you and your family.
Barbara Wood So glad you're going home soon...you're a trouper! Best healing wishes Mike!
Hello all. Just wanted to let you know I am still in the hospital and hope to get out on Tuesday. It’s been a really rough two weeks and I will tell my story ...Read more
Hello all. Just wanted to let you know I am still in the hospital and hope to get out on Tuesday. It’s been a really rough two weeks and I will tell my story then.
Tom McDonald Mike,
That is finally some fantastic news for you to hear. We are all rooting for you. I hope the ne ... Read more
Tom McDonald Mike,
That is finally some fantastic news for you to hear. We are all rooting for you. I hope the new valve is functioning beautifully and the other set backs you have experienced are under control. You will be in full recovery mode soon.
Rest easy!
Rita Savelis I sympathise Mike. I was in hospital for 4 weeks after OHS. You've been through a lot. I'm hoping you ... Read more
Rita Savelis I sympathise Mike. I was in hospital for 4 weeks after OHS. You've been through a lot. I'm hoping you're feeling a tiny bit better each day, but it's often 2 steps forward 1 step back especially when things happen that you didn't expect. Wishing you some peace. There will be lots of time to tell your story later.
I found it a healing process to write it all down exactly as I felt it. But it took weeks after surgery for me to feel well enough to do that. Take care.
Catie B Mike, my heart goes out to you. I know you can't wait to get home! So sorry for all the setbacks.
Claire Kreger-Boaz Mike! So sorry you are having issues and still in the hospital. Wishing you the patience to take thin ... Read more
Claire Kreger-Boaz Mike! So sorry you are having issues and still in the hospital. Wishing you the patience to take things day by day. It's really the only way to get through it and you will be home soon enough. Much love and positive energy coming your way.
Joey Hardee Continuing to pray for you, Mike! Awesome news about you going home Tuesday. That report made my day! ... Read more
Joey Hardee Continuing to pray for you, Mike! Awesome news about you going home Tuesday. That report made my day!
rich monoson Mike, we can only imagine what a solid guy like you had to endure and you probably have quite a story ... Read more
rich monoson Mike, we can only imagine what a solid guy like you had to endure and you probably have quite a story to tell. Rooting for you big time.
Rob Sparling So glad to hear! Looking forward to Tuesday so you can get home! Then, however long it takes for th ... Read more
Rob Sparling So glad to hear! Looking forward to Tuesday so you can get home! Then, however long it takes for the “Chronicles of Roskowinski” to be published, I’ll be logging in early before the internet breaks! Stay positive! We are rooting for you!
Lea Parker Mike,
Hopeful you will be going home Tuesday. Everyone is always anxious to get out of the hospital ... Read more
Lea Parker Mike,
Hopeful you will be going home Tuesday. Everyone is always anxious to get out of the hospital, but only when it is safe to do so. Recovery is not linear - and for some it is two steps forward and one back—and on some weeks it feels like two steps back! Don’t let that discourage you. It is a long process and as an impatient person, I remember longing to feel “normal “ (but, it takes awhile before you have a day when you don’t think about your heart surgery. Please try to be kind to yourself and not rush it. Walk and keep doing what the doctors tell you. We are all rooting for you!
Lea
Diane Esposito Good to hear from you, Mike. Tuesday will be here before you know it and hopefully those issues will ... Read more
Diane Esposito Good to hear from you, Mike. Tuesday will be here before you know it and hopefully those issues will be behind you. I know it’s difficult to be patient with yourself when you’re anxious for things to be better. We’re here for you.
leslie terjesen Great to hear you are going home in a couple of days. Best wishes to you and your family.
Julie M So sorry that you've had a rough time, Mike. Prayers for a smoother road ahead. I know you'll be rel ... Read more
Julie M So sorry that you've had a rough time, Mike. Prayers for a smoother road ahead. I know you'll be relieved just to be home. Hang in there & just take things slow... Full recovery lies ahead!
Hello All
Well it’s been a little while but I have been stuck in the hospital since my surgery. Various complications that are still on going. I will due ...Read more
Hello All
Well it’s been a little while but I have been stuck in the hospital since my surgery. Various complications that are still on going. I will due a full write up when I get home to a computer where it is easier to type long messages.
Tom McDonald Hey Mike,
I hope your your daily struggles are easing abit. Hang in there. The docs will get it figu ... Read more
Tom McDonald Hey Mike,
I hope your your daily struggles are easing abit. Hang in there. The docs will get it figured out and you will be in full recovery mode soon. Your in my thoughts.
Hi Mike,
Don't worry heart warrior, you're gonna make it through this!
Peace and blessings to you!
rich monoson Mike, we are all thinking about you. You've touched a lot of us and we want to bring you home ASAP.
Joey Hardee Don't worry about us, bro. Just keep healing! Update when you feel up to it. You are being prayed for ... Read more
Joey Hardee Don't worry about us, bro. Just keep healing! Update when you feel up to it. You are being prayed for and you have a great medical team there. You'll be home soon and giving us anniversary updates! :-))
Bradley Dunn Excited about you getting to go home!
Nicole DuPont You definitely have the strength to get through this! Looking forward to hearing from you after you ... Read more
Nicole DuPont You definitely have the strength to get through this! Looking forward to hearing from you after you’re back home. Keep up your positive thoughts and know you have many healing wishes being sent your way.
Christopher May Mike, I hate to see you’re still in the hospital, but I’m sure it’s the best thing so they get ... Read more
Christopher May Mike, I hate to see you’re still in the hospital, but I’m sure it’s the best thing so they get it all straightened out now. I’ll continue to think of you. Hang in there. You’ll get to go home soon. Take care, buddy!
Heidi Rockwood Hi Mike, Thinking of you and hoping you are feeling better and healing.
My sodium levels are low and they want them up. I am not hungry and not sure what else I can do. I don’t feel like eating right after these last few days. ...Read more
My sodium levels are low and they want them up. I am not hungry and not sure what else I can do. I don’t feel like eating right after these last few days. Seems to be my major hiccup facing me.
Diane Maher Yes, it is major and quite serious depending on how low your level is. I had a reading of 124 so I t ... Read more
Diane Maher Yes, it is major and quite serious depending on how low your level is. I had a reading of 124 so I too had to quickly address this issue. Very salty foods that I found appealing....ask the kitchen for salt added broths and soups (won ton soup is great for this...perhaps someone can bring this in for you from a local Chinese restaurant) vegetable juice, bacon/sausage, pretzels, Ritz crackers, salted fries, nuts, fast food chicken tenders or burger, tortilla chips, ham sandwich. I know it seems counter-intuitive but here is one important time where you can totally indulge ......for a very important health reason.
Peter Eglinton Hang in there, heart buddy. Thinking of you.
Rita Savelis Who has an appetite after OHS? I sure didn't. I feel for you. It's hard to force yourself to eat. D ... Read more
Rita Savelis Who has an appetite after OHS? I sure didn't. I feel for you. It's hard to force yourself to eat. Doctors are probably giving you intravenous sodium solutions.... You've had more than your share of hard things happen. Geez. I wish you could get a break.
Joey Hardee Wow. Hope the appetite comes back soon. Everyone says its part of OHS. Its a part I can't even fathom ... Read more
Joey Hardee Wow. Hope the appetite comes back soon. Everyone says its part of OHS. Its a part I can't even fathom because I love food.....I actually love it too much. ….I'm sure you will feel like eating soon. Continuing to pray for you, Mike.
Alan Jamieson Do you have a favorite salty snack? Have a loved one sneak it in for you. I know the appetite isn't ... Read more
Alan Jamieson Do you have a favorite salty snack? Have a loved one sneak it in for you. I know the appetite isn't there, but a favorite food seems to help people get past that, and you gotta believe it's better than whatever they want to give you in the hospital!
Joy Vera My very last obstacle to going home was a low potassium level. Once that was addressed, I got to lea ... Read more
Joy Vera My very last obstacle to going home was a low potassium level. Once that was addressed, I got to leave. A bunch of potassium pills took care of my issue but the salty snacks ideas sound good for you. Hope you or they can get some sodium in you & get you home soon.
Susan Lynn Mike - Keep your spirits up! The medical team will get you through these final bumps in the road. Y ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - Keep your spirits up! The medical team will get you through these final bumps in the road. You'll be home before you know it.
Finally moved to step down today from the ICU. This experience has been a tough one for me as I am hitting a bunch of speed bumps. I will do a full write up ...Read more
Finally moved to step down today from the ICU. This experience has been a tough one for me as I am hitting a bunch of speed bumps. I will do a full write up of my surgery someday soon when I get home
Elaine Cutri Hang in there. Now you can spend your energy in healing.
Catie B Hooray for getting to step down! Great news! I hope your sodium levels come into line speedily!
Rob Sparling Good deal! Sorry to hear about all the challenges. You’ve had some hurdles put in front of you, fo ... Read more
Rob Sparling Good deal! Sorry to hear about all the challenges. You’ve had some hurdles put in front of you, for sure! Next goals are eating, getting the blood right and then GETTING HOME to rest and heal. Keep knocking down obstacles, Mike. The “Heart Warrior” medal doesn’t comes from inside a cereal box! ❤️💪
Marie Myers Congrats on the move to step down. You have really had quite a bumpy ride , but we are all hoping thi ... Read more
Marie Myers Congrats on the move to step down. You have really had quite a bumpy ride , but we are all hoping things smooth out from here.
leslie terjesen You'll be home before you know it and glad you've moved from ICU. This will all be behind you soon a ... Read more
leslie terjesen You'll be home before you know it and glad you've moved from ICU. This will all be behind you soon and just remember, you are now on the other side of the surgery, can only get better!
Rita Savelis There will be time to write it all later. The days/weeks after OHS are tough. Who can anticipate all ... Read more
Rita Savelis There will be time to write it all later. The days/weeks after OHS are tough. Who can anticipate all the crazy things that happen, that you didn't deserve and that surgery brought on? It's unfair. You've had more than your share. Leaving ICU is a good thing. Rest. You've been through a lot.
Joey Hardee WIN! Take that, OHS! Glad you are out of ICU. Keep plugging, Mike. You'll be home soon. I can feel it ... Read more
Joey Hardee WIN! Take that, OHS! Glad you are out of ICU. Keep plugging, Mike. You'll be home soon. I can feel it! Update when you feel like it. Focus on getting better, brother.
Alan Jamieson One step closer! It's hard, but get back into that positive mentality and rock the step-down. I'm sti ... Read more
Alan Jamieson One step closer! It's hard, but get back into that positive mentality and rock the step-down. I'm still praying for you!
Barbara Wood You've had a tough one Mike, so glad you're out of the icu. There was a kitchen on my floor & the aid ... Read more
Barbara Wood You've had a tough one Mike, so glad you're out of the icu. There was a kitchen on my floor & the aids were happy to make me smoothies & shakes - hospital food was terrible! Hang in there, you'll get there - best wishes!
Diane Esposito Goodbye ICU! Thank goodness, you’ve been through a lot, time for some rest and healing; hang in the ... Read more
Diane Esposito Goodbye ICU! Thank goodness, you’ve been through a lot, time for some rest and healing; hang in there!
rich monoson Mike, thank you for the update. As you can see there are a bunch of worried friends on HVS awaiting s ... Read more
rich monoson Mike, thank you for the update. As you can see there are a bunch of worried friends on HVS awaiting some good news from you. I'm sorry its been a bit tougher than expected. I hit a few speed bumps also that were concerning and I wasn't expecting. The new bright room out of the ICU should be very uplifting. I know you wanted to be home at this point but now you're at the head of the stretch coming for home. Eat my friend! It's restorative and necessary. The docs will figure it out. I had to battle that AFib which was nasty and super uncomfortable. Get out and walk, look around, shoot the breeze with the nurses and keep that incredible attitude and disposition you have. When you're out of this unexpected dust up and home we'd welcome hearing about your experience. Now is not the time for intense detail. Get healthy and home ASAP!
Kevin Bradley Mike, I continue to pray for you. I am glad things are starting to get better for you man. Keep your ... Read more
Kevin Bradley Mike, I continue to pray for you. I am glad things are starting to get better for you man. Keep your head up and stay strong. I’m here if you need to talk.
Mava Reif Prayers for a full recovery soon. God bless you!
Hello everyone it has been quite the ride going through this OHS. Still in ICU today but I feel things are starting to get better. Sounds like I may not need ...Read more
Hello everyone it has been quite the ride going through this OHS. Still in ICU today but I feel things are starting to get better. Sounds like I may not need a pacemaker as my electrical parts of the heart are starting to wake up. Found out I have an infection in the stomach that needs to be resolved or else I loose part of my colony. I don’t want to have another surgery so hoping these medications start to worry to. Let you guys know more details when I get a better time write everything.
Rob Sparling Mike, wow. Thanks for the update! it is a good thing you are at a place where they have the expertise ... Read more
Rob Sparling Mike, wow. Thanks for the update! it is a good thing you are at a place where they have the expertise at the ready! One reason I felt better going to CC — even though it was a distance from home — is the “what-if” factor and having “bench strength” right there. Seems that factor is coming into play for you in a good way. Hopefully you can take some comfort in that! Very happy to know your heart rhythm thing is possibly falling into place w/o the pacemaker. That would be a win! Stay positive!
Catie B It's wonderful to hear your heart is "waking up" and you may not need the pacer. I'm sure it's been h ... Read more
Catie B It's wonderful to hear your heart is "waking up" and you may not need the pacer. I'm sure it's been hard to be patient through this ordeal. Prayers for you here about the infection and for your heart to keep stepping up!
Hello Mike,
Glad things are starting to stabilize with your heart and I pray your stomach situation s ... Read more
Hello Mike,
Glad things are starting to stabilize with your heart and I pray your stomach situation stabilizes also.
You are in the hands of an expert medical team and you are also in the hands of God.
He will see you through this.
Peace and blessings to you my fellow heart warrior.
Debbie Kelly Mike, this is awesome news about your heart. Praying that the meds work for your colon and that you ... Read more
Debbie Kelly Mike, this is awesome news about your heart. Praying that the meds work for your colon and that you will recover completely very soon. Keep the faith!
rich monoson Thanks for the update Mike. You've got quite a group pulling for you.
Dan Baltazor Great to hear about your heart!! Excellent news there. Keep going, hang in there, your medical team ... Read more
Dan Baltazor Great to hear about your heart!! Excellent news there. Keep going, hang in there, your medical team will pull you through this.. Sorry it’s been so rough.
Kevin Bradley Mike, glad to hear your heart is waking up. I am so relieved about that. I hope and pray the meds tak ... Read more
Kevin Bradley Mike, glad to hear your heart is waking up. I am so relieved about that. I hope and pray the meds take care of the infection and you will be out of ICU soon. I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Take care brother and look forward to another positive update.
Alan Jamieson Stay positive, and you'll be out of that room and on to full on recovery. It's been a rough road, but ... Read more
Alan Jamieson Stay positive, and you'll be out of that room and on to full on recovery. It's been a rough road, but it'll smooth out soon! Thoughts and prayers with you!
Rita Savelis Thanks for the good news Mike. Hope you can get some rest in ICU. And some respite
from all the side ... Read more
Rita Savelis Thanks for the good news Mike. Hope you can get some rest in ICU. And some respite
from all the side effects. It's so intense in ICU. I wasn't allowed a cell phone and certainly did not feel like posting!). Take care.
Joey Hardee Yes sir! Thanks for the update, Mike. You are in a great place. Things are starting to turn around. H ... Read more
Joey Hardee Yes sir! Thanks for the update, Mike. You are in a great place. Things are starting to turn around. Hope the heart continues to heal and you can get by without the PM and now praying the infection clears up too! You'll be up and around soon, I'm sure! Keep healing, my friend. Constantly in our prayers.
Joy Vera Good to know that things seem to have improved, Mike. Hope you leave ICU before much longer but, in ... Read more
Joy Vera Good to know that things seem to have improved, Mike. Hope you leave ICU before much longer but, in the meantime, it's good to know they are closely monitoring your heart & stomach.
Susan Lynn Thanks for the update, Mike! You're in the right place to get this done - just think of the progress ... Read more
Susan Lynn Thanks for the update, Mike! You're in the right place to get this done - just think of the progress you've made in six days. It feels like an eternity, but you will reap the benefits for a lifetime for this week of treatment. Hope you're able to do a little walking by now - just a change of scenery will do you a world of good! Hang in there! Better days are ahead.
Mava Reif Thank you for posting updates. So glad your heart is improving, prayers for your stomach issues now. ... Read more
Mava Reif Thank you for posting updates. So glad your heart is improving, prayers for your stomach issues now. May God watch over you & bring healing to your whole body, mind, & spirit.
Nicole DuPont Keep hanging in there! It sounds like your medical team is on top of everything which is exactly wher ... Read more
Nicole DuPont Keep hanging in there! It sounds like your medical team is on top of everything which is exactly where You need them to be. Trust in them, and know that you have many friends sending positive strength your way.
Tom McDonald Hey Mike,
I'm glad to hear that things are starting to turn around for the better. Keep fighting! P ... Read more
Tom McDonald Hey Mike,
I'm glad to hear that things are starting to turn around for the better. Keep fighting! Prayers to you.
Lorraine Siri We are routing for you! You got this mike!!
Tammy Pilcher So happy to see this post! Prayers for your stomach issues to be healed as well. God is good!
Diane Esposito I’m so glad to hear the good news! And now that the infection has been found, the antibiotics can ... Read more
Diane Esposito I’m so glad to hear the good news! And now that the infection has been found, the antibiotics can do their work. Great news!
Mark Jaycox Hang in there Mike hopefully you’ll be out of ICU soon.
Reghu Madathil Awesome news Mike. Really happy for you. You will do well take care
leslie terjesen Glad to hear good news. Glad they found they infection and now can fix it. As you can see, everyone ... Read more
leslie terjesen Glad to hear good news. Glad they found they infection and now can fix it. As you can see, everyone has been thinking of you. You'll be home before you know it!
Ok found out that I have heart block now and that is why I need a pacer. One of my chambers is not responding so that’s new for me.
Rob Sparling Hang fire, man. Stay positive. Sorry to hear the news. I had to read up on this a bit to learn what y ... Read more
Rob Sparling Hang fire, man. Stay positive. Sorry to hear the news. I had to read up on this a bit to learn what you are battling. Just look over your shoulder and take a gander at those teddy bears and it all is worth it. ❤️
Joey Hardee Hey Mike. What Rob said :-) Also, sounds like there are degrees of heart block. Did they assign o ... Read more
Joey Hardee Hey Mike. What Rob said :-) Also, sounds like there are degrees of heart block. Did they assign one to yours? Do they think the pacer will be temporary? Hang in there, bro. Gonna get better!!
Dan Baltazor Sorry for the setback. We’re thinking of you everyday and praying for you. You’re absolutely ri ... Read more
Dan Baltazor Sorry for the setback. We’re thinking of you everyday and praying for you. You’re absolutely right, it is hard, but hang in there recovery takes time and patience.❤️💪
Mary Weiler Thanks for the continu9updates. Am sending healing energy and positive thoughts. I remember how frust ... Read more
Mary Weiler Thanks for the continu9updates. Am sending healing energy and positive thoughts. I remember how frustrated I was by even the smallest d
deviations from my expected recovery. Things will start falling into place soon. Remember that it is better they address these things now rather than sending you home and then experiencing setbacks. That is really frustrating. Hang tight and lean on your support system.
Barbara Laurie Mike, I popped on to HVS to check in and saw your post! Three years ago I had heart block, and right ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Mike, I popped on to HVS to check in and saw your post! Three years ago I had heart block, and right heart failure (left side works, right hard doesn’t!) I had a pacer for several weeks, but never had one implanted, though I do have the wires in there. Hey. I’m hoping you’re doing okay. If you have one side, it’s possible to be doing good, with a pacer. I know there are folks around that have them here.(Rita) Chin up. Waiting and even understanding what the doctors want to do can be tough! Praying for you tonight! 💕💕💕 I get what it feels like! I went low-carb and feel way better, and I still have “right heart failure”, but, have decreased tons of meds and feel good. Thankfully you have youth and I’m praying tonight all goes well!!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Susan Lynn Mike - I also had to do some research to understand this condition. Remain optimistic - you're just ... Read more
Susan Lynn Mike - I also had to do some research to understand this condition. Remain optimistic - you're just 4 days into recovery. I believe there's still high probability that this will resolve itself within the next few days. If not, you'll handle it with the same strength and courage. Until then, stay focused on healing and keep marching. You're going to be better than fine when this is behind you. All the best! ❤
Rita Savelis Hi Mike, I'm very sorry to hear that.
I also got an unexpected pace maker, and it was an emotional ... Read more
Rita Savelis Hi Mike, I'm very sorry to hear that.
I also got an unexpected pace maker, and it was an emotional shock/letdown because I didn't realise that it was a possible OHS side effect (although only occurring in about 3% of cases, 15% with TAVR). Electrical lines are invisible and can inadvertently be damaged during OHS. My cardiologist waited 17 days (during which I was in hospital) before giving me a pacemaker, hoping that my heart would get its rhythm back. I was greatful to her for doing all that she could and waiting it out with me. But I felt very angry about this side effect and that no one had mentioned it was a possibility pre-surgery. I felt very unprepared. It was no fun having more surgery even if pacemaker surgery is obviously a much lighter deal. Physically living with a pacemaker is not inconvenient or bothersome (aside from the visible bulge), but it was an emotional shock to me for awhile after OHS. I still get upset when I see that bulge. I am thinking about you. Take care.
Alan Jamieson Just a bump! They'll get it all sorted and you'll be out of that ICU in no time. I'm thinking and pra ... Read more
Alan Jamieson Just a bump! They'll get it all sorted and you'll be out of that ICU in no time. I'm thinking and praying for you!
Bradley Dunn Thinking of you heart brother. Hopefully this is temporary but if it isn't, MAKE THE BEST OF IT. The ... Read more
Bradley Dunn Thinking of you heart brother. Hopefully this is temporary but if it isn't, MAKE THE BEST OF IT. The mental part of what we go through is often the hardest (at least it was for me)!
Tom McDonald Mike,
I'm hopeful things start to turnaround for you soon. Stay focused and keep that positve atti ... Read more
Tom McDonald Mike,
I'm hopeful things start to turnaround for you soon. Stay focused and keep that positve attitude you have, you will get through this and recovery will be a thing of the past. You have alot of heart warriors rooting and praying for a full and complete recovery for you.
Gregory Ballard Glad you found out what is going on. If they confirm you do need PM you will be up and walking aroun ... Read more
Gregory Ballard Glad you found out what is going on. If they confirm you do need PM you will be up and walking around soon. PM not bad for me. I had total heart block and my PM limits me from nothing. Glad your team is on top of it and you found out now before you got home. Outpatient procedure and you will be up and running (literally) within 24 hours after.
Catie B So sorry for this obstacle, Mike! I'm sure this development has felt daunting. This isn't your team' ... Read more
Catie B So sorry for this obstacle, Mike! I'm sure this development has felt daunting. This isn't your team's first rodeo--they're going to get you fixed up. Prayers and good thoughts surround you!
Diane Esposito Mike, I’m sorry that you’re going through this physically and mentally when I know you just want ... Read more
Diane Esposito Mike, I’m sorry that you’re going through this physically and mentally when I know you just want to get better and go home. It’s much better that you’re in ICU where they can monitor you and do what’s necessary to get you on the right track. We’re praying for you.