Noel's Posts

In retro perspective I had first symptoms about 3 months before I had surgery. Those 3 months before I thought I was just a bit out of shape. This was skiing with a teenager and crazy and VERY fit young adults in their 20s. I had no problems walking up stairs, being on an elliptical almost every day, etc. Two months later it was pretty clear something was wrong and I needed quick surgery (had it done 2 weeks later). My heart was very much enlarged. I now have a leaky valve again but no symptoms yet. I do have my open heart surgery scheduled already. My point is, don't wait until your heart gets more damaged by pushing the unavoidable out (based on your statement it is indeed unavoidable). I wish you all the best for your surgery. Try not to be afraid of the surgery itself. You will be monitored constantly, have medical stuff that can get to you in a very short time, etc. The recovery is a bit harder and probably will take anywhere from a few weeks (until your bones are healed) to a few months. Do these lung exercises... After that you will have many more years doing what you used to do.

Hi Noel, going for OHS is a lot for a person to process. I am now nearly 3 weeks past my surgery and I am grateful every day at how well it went and how good I'm feeling. I'm now walking 1+ miles a day and have no pain. I hope your surgery is at least as successful. It is remarkable what these doctors and nurses can do!

Hi Noel! You will have a great operation! I want to tell you that you are going to come out of this much stronger. More than you thought you could! You are going to learn some absolutely priceless things!! Dont worry! If you like, ask me about any worry you have. Maybe i can help. I have had a lot of experiences this year. I have to go into Physio now. So dont worry, my friend, everything will be more than ok !!!

Noel, everything will be fine, you can do this! We are here for the support and encouragement. Focus on positive things, this surgery will fix you, and you will be stronger. Going through this whole experience will make you stronger human being and you will appreciate and enjoy life even more. Good luck!