Hello Family,
I wanted to give you all a quick update. Well, I don't qualify for the transplant due to the damage being on the right side of my heart instead ...Read more
Hello Family,
I wanted to give you all a quick update. Well, I don't qualify for the transplant due to the damage being on the right side of my heart instead of the left (per my new doctor). But, I'm doing much better😁😎!!!! My new doctor sent me to cardiac rehab 06/30/17 and boy do I feel great! I will complete rehab at the end of this month. Since rehab, I'm able to exercise, do chores without stopping and resting and I don't use the scooter at the grocery store/Sam's anymore 👍🙌. I don't worry anymore. I've decided to live and enjoy my life God is awesome and I know he will continue to bless me. I'm praying for everyone!!!
Catie B I'm so tickled that you posted and even more delighted to hear how well things are going for you, She ... Read more
Catie B I'm so tickled that you posted and even more delighted to hear how well things are going for you, Sherry! Terrific news!!
Hello Heart Family-
It's been a while since I've posted, but my journey has been a difficult one. (please read previous journals dated Jan. 7, 2016 and Nov. ...Read more
Hello Heart Family-
It's been a while since I've posted, but my journey has been a difficult one. (please read previous journals dated Jan. 7, 2016 and Nov. 25, 2016 for more detailed info). I'm 21 months post-op. I had my Mitral and Aortic Valves replaced and a Quadruple by-pass in August 2015. My family and I repeatly asked the doctors what happened to me during surgery and they stated that when they went to restart my heart during surgery, the right side wouldn't work. The doctors stated that it was a hard surgery and that I had a lot done. In June 2016, the doctors told me that I was healing but it was going to take some time to get stronger and that I would be OK.
Since my surgery, my health has continuously deteriorated. I have extreme shortness of breathe, pain in my chest, and fatigue. The doctors have conducted many different tests since Nov. 2016 to April 2017 (Echos, Stress tests, TEE, heart Catheterizations, and CPX treadmill) etc.. So after months of the doctors going back and forth, one doctor would say one thing and the other doctor would say something totally different, I started fussing. I received a letter in Feb. of 2017 stating that I was ill enough for advanced heart failure therapies.
Again, I started asking the doctors what's going on with my health. The Cardiologist said he was "sending me to a specialist", After seeing the specialist in March 2017, he sent me for more test (same tests that I had done already). A month after those tests, I was told nothing. Now I'm super anger!!!! Finally after speaking with the nurse practitioner in late April 2017 regarding how poorly the doctors where in informing me of the tests results and my condition, she promised that she would have the Doctor to call me.
He finally called on May 05, 2017. The doctor stated that I had a massive heart attack during the surgery in 2015. ( The doctors never told me or my family that). He stated that there was nothing else they could do for me but give me some medicine (Entresto) to make me comfortable and stay out of the hospital. He also stated that I didn't qualified for a heart transplant. (WOW!!!!!) What a pill to swallow!!!!!!!. Then the doctor said "what happened to you was a stroke of bad luck." (Really?) I'm at a lost for words.
On May 15, 2017, the nurse practitioner called me and told me that the heart specialist was going before the board to see if I would qualify for a transplant and that she'll let me know. I'm looking for a new doctor. I will also be looking for a different Surgeon if I do qualify for the transplant.
I can't even describe how I truly feel!!!!!!
Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers. Thanks for allowing me to share.
Melissa Houser Wow - prayers for doctors to have wisdom in guiding you in your precarious situation. I pray the the ... Read more
Melissa Houser Wow - prayers for doctors to have wisdom in guiding you in your precarious situation. I pray the the Lord directs you to the right surgeon, if needed. Take care!
Catie B Sherry, I just read your journal entries. My heart goes out to you very, very much. I'm so sorry for ... Read more
Catie B Sherry, I just read your journal entries. My heart goes out to you very, very much. I'm so sorry for the news. And I'm horrified at how you've been treated, with no one until now explaining what happened to you. I'm adding you to my prayers.
Phyllis Petersen That's ridiculous that they weren't upfront with you after surgery. You have a right to know what has ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen That's ridiculous that they weren't upfront with you after surgery. You have a right to know what has happened, why it happened (not simply bad luck), and what your options are. I'm so sorry that you are going through this, and pray that solutions are found to return you to a better quality of life.
Cathy Zuber What a lousy way to be treated!! Prayers that you get some good, correct answers for you and yr fami ... Read more
Cathy Zuber What a lousy way to be treated!! Prayers that you get some good, correct answers for you and yr family!!
Sherry Nichols Thanks heart family!!!! I will continue to have faith that God will see me through.
Roger Perkins Wow - will definitely pray! Remember, the longevity of the fire reveals the strength of the gold.... ... Read more
Roger Perkins Wow - will definitely pray! Remember, the longevity of the fire reveals the strength of the gold....and you actually seem quite strong through all of this!
Jacky Taylor hello Sherry, I am so sorry for you but you sound very strong and with the help of your family I am s ... Read more
Jacky Taylor hello Sherry, I am so sorry for you but you sound very strong and with the help of your family I am sure the doctors will come to the right decision and it sounds as if you might be eligible for a new heart so just keep praying.
love Jacky Taylor x
Jeanette Davidson Sherry, I remember you so vividly since or surgeries with only one month apart we were on the same te ... Read more
Jeanette Davidson Sherry, I remember you so vividly since or surgeries with only one month apart we were on the same team lead that time. I got choked up when I just read your story. I know how "heartbreaking " this must all be for you and how difficult it is to hear this and swallow it. I could tell you is I would continue to keep digging and seeing as many doctors as possible. Read some of my posts and you understand what's been going on with me nothing compared to your situation but similar emotions contained within. I'm here for you Heart Sister hang in there 💓
Enrique K Dear Sherry, I will be praying for you and will send good vibes your way! I hope that everything goe ... Read more
Enrique K Dear Sherry, I will be praying for you and will send good vibes your way! I hope that everything goes well for you! Sending lots of good energy your way.
Jennifer McInerney Im shockd and angry that you would be treated so poorly by your health care Providers. Its disgracef ... Read more
Jennifer McInerney Im shockd and angry that you would be treated so poorly by your health care Providers. Its disgraceful. Please continue yout "heart" journey and try to find a solution. Im praying for you and hoping all will go well.
Sherry Nichols Thanks Jennifer and Enrique for the caring words of encouragement😘
Hello everyone!!!! I haven't posted in almost a year since my surgery ( August 24, 2015) ( 2 valves replaced and a quad triple bypass) but I'm 15 months post-op. ...Read more
Hello everyone!!!! I haven't posted in almost a year since my surgery ( August 24, 2015) ( 2 valves replaced and a quad triple bypass) but I'm 15 months post-op. I'm still having some issues ( my heart is only functioning at 40% and one of the bypass has failed) but I'm truly blessed to still be in the land of the living and I'm doing good. I will be praying for those who have surgeries scheduled and for those who are recovering. I thank all of you who gave me support and words of encouragement. I'm truly grateful that I stumbled upon this site. It is a great support system for the heart family!! Wishing everyone the best and may God bless you all. 😄😄😄
Debbie Bentley What are the doing about the failed bypass ? I'm experiencing something similar .
Sherry Nichols Debbie I'm not sure. 😱😱 My doctor did a heart cath last month and he said that this happens som ... Read more
Sherry Nichols Debbie I'm not sure. 😱😱 My doctor did a heart cath last month and he said that this happens sometime and that my body has made a path for the blood to flow around the failed bypass. He's running a lot of tests now.
Angela Hicks What awesome blessing. God is awesome. Please read my journal and you will see how God poured his bl ... Read more
Angela Hicks What awesome blessing. God is awesome. Please read my journal and you will see how God poured his blessing on me.
Steven A Husted god bless hope they help you with your bypass
Rita Savelis Nice to have an update, Sherry, especialy from a double valve replacement (like me).
Wishing you all ... Read more
Rita Savelis Nice to have an update, Sherry, especialy from a double valve replacement (like me).
Wishing you all the best as you go forward.
Take care.
Hello my heart sister's and brother's I know it's been awhile since I've posted. As u all know I had my surgery on August 24. I had a lot of complications. ...Read more
Hello my heart sister's and brother's I know it's been awhile since I've posted. As u all know I had my surgery on August 24. I had a lot of complications. i was hospitalized until October 22. My heart stopped and I ended up on life support for 14 days. I ended up with pig valves not the mechanical valves. When I woke up and came off life support I couldn't walk move my arms and legs. I was transferred to rehab in October to learn how to walk and feed myself all over again. As of today right now I'm alive walking feeding myself bathing myself cooking for me and my family. I've had several set backs alone the way but I wanted to share my story not to scare people but to tell you all how awesome GOD is!!!!!! Look what he has brought me through I thank and praise him all day. So to those who have surgeries coming up just put your hand in God's hands and he will see you
through. God blessed u all and I will continue to pray for our health and strength .😇😇😇😇😇 💗💗💗💗💗💗💗
Clare Auten Thanks for the update. So glad you are on the road of recovery. Take care.
Enrique K Sherry, God bless you! Wish you a great recovery moving forward.
Jacqueline Cook Wow, Sherry...I'm so sorry you went through so much. Glad to hear you are doing well now. What an ama ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Wow, Sherry...I'm so sorry you went through so much. Glad to hear you are doing well now. What an amazing testimony! Thank you for sharing with us!
Jean Raber I'm so glad to her from you, Sherry, and to hear you're feeling better. God bless you.
How wonderful! So glad you have made such incredible progress, even with such hard setbacks! Thank yo ... Read more
How wonderful! So glad you have made such incredible progress, even with such hard setbacks! Thank you for sharing with us!
Tina Maroon God Bless you. It just goes to show all the things that can go wrong. One never knows how a surgery w ... Read more
Tina Maroon God Bless you. It just goes to show all the things that can go wrong. One never knows how a surgery will go. But you sure seem like one strong person. Congrats for that. Thanks for sharing your story with us!!
Good morning my mother's heart sisters and brothers she is doing fine , let's pray for a full healthy recovery... Love you mom 😘😘😘😘😘 Jeremy
Tammy Pilcher Great news! Praise the Lord! Thank you for the update, Jeremy! Prayers for a smooth recovery!
Jeanette Davidson Thanks you for sharing, Jeremy . I have been thinking about her. Please send my regards and let her k ... Read more
Jeanette Davidson Thanks you for sharing, Jeremy . I have been thinking about her. Please send my regards and let her know I am so happy hear her heart is repaired! 💞 smooth recovery!
Jacqueline Cook Thanks for the update. Please let her know she is being held close in thought and prayer.
Mary K Good News! Yes, tell her that we are holding her in prayer.
Elaine Cutri Great update. There will be challenging moments, but it feels so much better on the post surgery side ... Read more
Elaine Cutri Great update. There will be challenging moments, but it feels so much better on the post surgery side of things. I'm 3 months post AVR, ascending Aorta graph and Tricuspid valve repair.
Terrie Syvertsen Thank you Jeremey for taking time out to update us here in the community! When you see your Mom Pleas ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Thank you Jeremey for taking time out to update us here in the community! When you see your Mom Please tell her we will be praying for her and to take it slow and easy! This is news to make our day! Take care of her! Will be praying for a full recovery and a good nights sleep for her
tonight!
Rosemary Resler Thank you Jeremy, so glad she is doing well. Great news!
Janice Powell Aww praise God on a wonderful job he has pull off again without even doing much but working his power ... Read more
Janice Powell Aww praise God on a wonderful job he has pull off again without even doing much but working his power as a natural lol I love my Jesus he will do it when no one else could.. Continue with your recovery and I hope you feel better soon take care agin heart sister.. You are fix Thank God!!!
Steven A Husted thank you jeremy dear lord give her a great recovery slow and easy time is a healer thank you lord am ... Read more
Steven A Husted thank you jeremy dear lord give her a great recovery slow and easy time is a healer thank you lord amen steve (popeye) your heart brother
Cheryl Batzing Thanks for the update Jeremy! Prayers for your mom's healing and full recovery.
Lynne Ladd Great news, Jeremy!! My thoughts and prayers are with Sherry ... these first few days can be quite c ... Read more
Lynne Ladd Great news, Jeremy!! My thoughts and prayers are with Sherry ... these first few days can be quite challenging! It gets better every day!!!
Waiting on the doctor to say he's ready so I can get my new parts for my heart!!!!!
Mary K Lord, please let Sherry feel your loving presence throughout this day and the days to come. Guide the ... Read more
Mary K Lord, please let Sherry feel your loving presence throughout this day and the days to come. Guide the hands and minds of her surgeon and his staff. And we ask that you bring her to healing and fullness of life. And we say Amen.
Jacqueline Cook Sending thoughts and prayers for you today Sherry!
Eleanor R Wishing you the very best outcome. Hope by now the doctor is ready for you. I know you are ready fo ... Read more
Eleanor R Wishing you the very best outcome. Hope by now the doctor is ready for you. I know you are ready for him, just waiting to get well. Best wishes.
Janice Powell I hope you ok my heart sister try to tell someone to post on your behalf to let us know you doing ok ... Read more
Janice Powell I hope you ok my heart sister try to tell someone to post on your behalf to let us know you doing ok rest up and start on your recovery easily Take care..
It's about 1250am Sunday morning a day before my surgery and I'm reading the 23rd Psalm and the 91st Psalm where I find great peace and comfort. I'm truly happy ...Read more
It's about 1250am Sunday morning a day before my surgery and I'm reading the 23rd Psalm and the 91st Psalm where I find great peace and comfort. I'm truly happy and blessed and I know God is going to see me through. I have God's grace, mercy and favor. I have my family and also have my new family of heart brothers and sisters who have been so inspiring, encouraging, loving, informational and always positive. I just want to thank each and everyone of you from the bottom of my herat for all the support and comfort you showed me during this difficult time in my life.
Jeanette Davidson I am here for you heart sister! Can't wait to connect with you when you are on the other side and you ... Read more
Jeanette Davidson I am here for you heart sister! Can't wait to connect with you when you are on the other side and you are well! Hold strong with your Faith! 💞
Tim Goff Sherry, good luck tomorrow. You will be in the right frame of mind for positive results, the medical ... Read more
Tim Goff Sherry, good luck tomorrow. You will be in the right frame of mind for positive results, the medical team will do their job, and the Creator will see you all through this. We look forward to hearing from you on the other side.
W. Carter Good luck Sherry, Everything will be fine. I can say this.. OHS is a life changing event.
Rhonda Rawles Faith is a wonderful thing and not something anyone can ever take from you. Sounds like you are in t ... Read more
Rhonda Rawles Faith is a wonderful thing and not something anyone can ever take from you. Sounds like you are in the right mindset for the journey you will begin tomorrow. Praying you have a smooth surgery and textbook recovery. As everyone says, the waiting is the worst.
W. Carter Rhonda you are so right. I don't want to sound like a preacher, but when I turn it all over to God th ... Read more
W. Carter Rhonda you are so right. I don't want to sound like a preacher, but when I turn it all over to God there is nothing to worry about. If i'm alive i'm blessed. If I should die I will be with him. It's a win win situation!
Meredith Bray I left the church for a long time in my teens, 20s, 30s. The looming cloud of surgery brought me bac ... Read more
Meredith Bray I left the church for a long time in my teens, 20s, 30s. The looming cloud of surgery brought me back, and I'm ever thankful. I couldn't have done it without Him taking over. Can't wait to hear from you on the other side!
Tammy Pilcher Sherry, you are ready heart sister! Our Father God's peace is true and perfect peace. I'm so happy ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Sherry, you are ready heart sister! Our Father God's peace is true and perfect peace. I'm so happy for you! We are blessed beyond measure to be His children. God bless you!
Gerald Schaffer I hope your receive the peace and comfort of the Lord. I'm sure you will do fine and I pray that your ... Read more
Gerald Schaffer I hope your receive the peace and comfort of the Lord. I'm sure you will do fine and I pray that your recovery goes without complications.
John Jones Sherry, you will be in my prayers as you go in for surgery tomorrow. I think of the hymn "Turn your e ... Read more
John Jones Sherry, you will be in my prayers as you go in for surgery tomorrow. I think of the hymn "Turn your eyes upon Jesus". Hebrews 12:2 reads in part "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith..." These are true words.
Nancy D I know that you will do well, with God with you in this!! Praying for a perfect outcome and daily pro ... Read more
Nancy D I know that you will do well, with God with you in this!! Praying for a perfect outcome and daily progress to wellness!
Kelly Weisgarber Good luck Sherry! Can't wait to hear from you after you're all fixed up! Sending prayers
Mary K Sending prayers for smooth sailing, heart sister.
Eleanor R Good luck to you tomorrow, I know you are nervous, but that is normal. With your faith and your fami ... Read more
Eleanor R Good luck to you tomorrow, I know you are nervous, but that is normal. With your faith and your family and friends, including us, you are in good hands. I hope it goes smoothly for you and that you are telling us about your adventure and your steps towards recovery very soon.
Lynne Ladd Great scriptures to encourage and comfort you! Praying for you!!! God's GOT you!!
Kenneth Cole My heart sister, may our blessed Lord be with you and your sergery team
Autumn Griffin Best wishes! I will pray for you and your family.
Janice Powell Good luck on tomorrow success and I can't wait until you start to feel better and it's going to be wo ... Read more
Janice Powell Good luck on tomorrow success and I can't wait until you start to feel better and it's going to be worth the effort once you get fix my heart sister bless you..
Cheryl Batzing Sherry, praying for a succesful surgery & quick recovery, dear heart sister! You will be amazed on th ... Read more
Cheryl Batzing Sherry, praying for a succesful surgery & quick recovery, dear heart sister! You will be amazed on the recovery side how God will provide opportunities for you to bless others. Can't wait to hear!
Kimberly Biddick Best of luck tomorrow! many prayers being sent your way!!
Bob M I pray that your surgery will be textbook and your recovery will be uneventful. Tomorrow will be a ne ... Read more
Bob M I pray that your surgery will be textbook and your recovery will be uneventful. Tomorrow will be a new day for you with a fixed heart. God bless and rise up!
Bob M A great verse from a great song from Kutless: "I've seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doe ... Read more
Bob M A great verse from a great song from Kutless: "I've seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn't ever end
Even when the sky is falling
I've seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That's what faith can do"
God bless and rise up!
Sherry Nichols Thanks for all the prayers and encouragement my ❤ family!!!! God bless
Janice Powell You welcome heart sister get well soon ok
Today my surgeon pushed my surgery date back to the 24th due to me taking plavix and lupus meds. I was a little disappointed at first but God knows best. So ...Read more
Today my surgeon pushed my surgery date back to the 24th due to me taking plavix and lupus meds. I was a little disappointed at first but God knows best. So the 24th it is. I'm ready to get the surgery over with so I can move forward and on with recovery.
Tammy Pilcher Sherry, I know it has to be disappointing to be ready and then have it rescheduled, but you have the ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Sherry, I know it has to be disappointing to be ready and then have it rescheduled, but you have the right attitude. You're right that God is watching over you and His timing is always what's best for us. Prayers for the 24th heart sister. God bless you!
Terrie Syvertsen Sherry-Sorry you have to wait a bit longer for your surgery but you are right in thinking that whatev ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Sherry-Sorry you have to wait a bit longer for your surgery but you are right in thinking that whatever the reason it was meant to be the 24th. and God only knows! I love your photo as it shows a Woman ready to get on with this and continue to take Life playing it forward! Keep up the positive thoughts and the day will be here before you know it. Take care Heart Sister.
Sherry Nichols Thanks Terrie I have to remember that it's not our time it's God's time when he's really then I'm rea ... Read more
Sherry Nichols Thanks Terrie I have to remember that it's not our time it's God's time when he's really then I'm ready and the surgeon will follow God's lead!!!! Be blessed my heart sister😎
Mary K May you be granted an extra measure of patience. God bless you.
Gerald Schaffer It's better to be safe than sorry. I can't imagine being all geared up in your mind for this major su ... Read more
Gerald Schaffer It's better to be safe than sorry. I can't imagine being all geared up in your mind for this major surgery only for it to be postponed and go through that again.
Jeanette Davidson I had a feeling that was going to happen when I saw your email. It's all for the best so just sit ti ... Read more
Jeanette Davidson I had a feeling that was going to happen when I saw your email. It's all for the best so just sit tight heart sister!💕
Jean Raber That has to be a letdown, but no sense in risking your recovery. Praying God gives you grace, strengt ... Read more
Jean Raber That has to be a letdown, but no sense in risking your recovery. Praying God gives you grace, strength, and good humor to get through that extra waiting time.
Sherry Nichols Thanks all!!!! The extra time will give me time to get other things in order.Jeanette is after 1 a go ... Read more
Sherry Nichols Thanks all!!!! The extra time will give me time to get other things in order.Jeanette is after 1 a good time everyday?
Ginger Marine You may find this funny, but my surgery was postponed because...my rooster flogged me! I was getting ... Read more
Ginger Marine You may find this funny, but my surgery was postponed because...my rooster flogged me! I was getting ready to drive to ATL the day before the surgery. I had the car loaded and was rushing about, and the rooster did not want to be put up, so he took 2 chunks out of my hand!
I truly believe God was at work on that rooster. Two weeks later I was much more relaxed about the surgery.
Sherry Nichols Ginger- WOW!!!!! I do believe that everything happens for a reason and in God's time. It's the best w ... Read more
Sherry Nichols Ginger- WOW!!!!! I do believe that everything happens for a reason and in God's time. It's the best way. When we obey God, we are shown grace, mercy and favor AMEN!!!!
Hello everyone I just feel the need to tell you all how truly blessed I am to have found this site and the people within it. I just joined the group ( my new ...Read more
Hello everyone I just feel the need to tell you all how truly blessed I am to have found this site and the people within it. I just joined the group ( my new family) a couple of days ago and you all have received me with opened arms. You all have given me much needed information, peace and encouragement. Thank you all for the support and prayers with my up coming life changing experience. You all will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. May God continue to bless you all.
Hello everyone!!!!! I'm new to this new family. I am a 45 year old female who was diagnosed with mitral and aortic valve disorder/disease in 2012. In May 2015 ...Read more
Hello everyone!!!!! I'm new to this new family. I am a 45 year old female who was diagnosed with mitral and aortic valve disorder/disease in 2012. In May 2015 I was informed that it was time to replace both valves and that I needed a triple bypass also. I just about passed out (lol). My surgery is scheduled for August 19, 2015. I've been trying to be strong for my family but I'm scared out of my mind. Anybody feeling the same way?
Sonny Abbasi Welcome. I would be cautious about a mechanical drive. I was leaning that direction and was talked ... Read more
Sonny Abbasi Welcome. I would be cautious about a mechanical drive. I was leaning that direction and was talked out of it by 2 of 3 surgeons I consulted with, my mother (a physician), and my uncle (a cardiologist). I am the same age as you. Why do you need a triple bypass in addition at that young age?
Sherry Nichols So did you get the pig valves? I have 3 arteries blocked
Sonny Abbasi Bovine (Cow). Yes I figured you had 3 arteries blocked but 45 seems very young for that. Hang in th ... Read more
Sonny Abbasi Bovine (Cow). Yes I figured you had 3 arteries blocked but 45 seems very young for that. Hang in there. You won't even know what is going on when they are doing the procedure. I had aortic valve replacement 12 days ago.
Sonny Abbasi Initial diagnosis for me was a shock but you have to rationalize that the chance of dying in surgery ... Read more
Sonny Abbasi Initial diagnosis for me was a shock but you have to rationalize that the chance of dying in surgery is much less than from not doing the surgery. You have to keep telling yourself that. I don't know your fact pattern specifically with mitral valve included and bypass included but typically for aortic valve replacement it is 2 percent and lower at many top places. The chance of dying from not doing anything once my stenosis had become severe and borderline critical was 25 percent a year.
Sherry Nichols Thanks Sunny can you tell me a little bit about your experience with bovine
Sonny Abbasi Well over the last 12 days, I feel good. My breathing is much better. Can't believe how bad I felt ... Read more
Sonny Abbasi Well over the last 12 days, I feel good. My breathing is much better. Can't believe how bad I felt until the valve was replaced. Big thing is obviously no blood thinners other than baby aspirin. Bovine is just what the particular clinic used for tissue valve--for those patients that opted for tissue. I was leaning towards mechanical because of our age (45) so you don't have to repeat. But my mother said you have no understanding of how bad blood thinners forever are. Younger two surgeons said they would opt for tissue but the choice was mine obviously. Older surgeon (first one I consulted so I didn't know much) said you don't want to have re-surgery at 60 and 75. I am gambling that technology will improve if I ever need re-surgery where the procedures that are through the leg get better.
Sonny Abbasi What basis did they conclude that you needed the triple bypass in addition? Did you get a second opi ... Read more
Sonny Abbasi What basis did they conclude that you needed the triple bypass in addition? Did you get a second opinion? 45 just seems really young for a triple bypass.
Janea Christensen Hi Sherry,
The first time around I got a tissue valve (pig.) It's been 9 years and it's time to re ... Read more
Janea Christensen Hi Sherry,
The first time around I got a tissue valve (pig.) It's been 9 years and it's time to replace and I am choosing a mechanical valve this time. I am going a week before you so we will be surgery buddies. Sorry about the bypass. You have triple surgeries but at least you get it done all at once. Imagine if they were seperate surgeries. It's nerve wracking now but so much better when you get on the other side of surgery. Lets keep in touch!
Janea Christensen Hi Sherry,
The first time around I got a tissue valve (pig.) It's been 9 years and it's time to re ... Read more
Janea Christensen Hi Sherry,
The first time around I got a tissue valve (pig.) It's been 9 years and it's time to replace and I am choosing a mechanical valve this time. I am going a week before you so we will be surgery buddies. Sorry about the bypass. You have triple surgeries but at least you get it done all at once. Imagine if they were seperate surgeries. It's nerve wracking now but so much better when you get on the other side of surgery. Lets keep in touch!
Clare Auten Welcome to the group. I had an aortic valve replacement and aneurysm repair at the age of 45. I am 47 ... Read more
Clare Auten Welcome to the group. I had an aortic valve replacement and aneurysm repair at the age of 45. I am 47 years old now and feel good. Feel free to read my journal or ask questions if you have them.
Rita Savelis Hi Sherry, I had my mitral and aortic valves replaced with mechanical valves in April (I'm 53). The ... Read more
Rita Savelis Hi Sherry, I had my mitral and aortic valves replaced with mechanical valves in April (I'm 53). The time before surgery is really hard because there is so much anxiety and one tries to be prepared although one can never really be prepared... After surgery, there are some difficult weeks, but at least the pre-surgery anxiety is over. I'm sorry you have to go through this, but I'm sure you can do it.
Jacqueline Cook Hi Sherry! I am new to this community as well--just joined on Monday. My diagnosis is different from ... Read more
Jacqueline Cook Hi Sherry! I am new to this community as well--just joined on Monday. My diagnosis is different from yours; however, I too experience the anxiety and fear you have shared here concerning surgery. It can be difficult to express your own fears when you are trying to "be strong" for your family. Something I am trying to practice is expressing my emotional needs to them. It's hard to let go and share the gamut of emotions that I am "really" feeling...but I am working on it (lol). I'll be keeping you in prayer!
W. Carter Sherry welcome to the site. Since we are supposed to be honest here let me get started lending you so ... Read more
W. Carter Sherry welcome to the site. Since we are supposed to be honest here let me get started lending you some knowledge that I have learned along the way. The mechanical valve at your age is the best decision. With tissue you are looking at 1 or maybe 2 more surgeries depending on how long you live. With mech. valves you will be on Warfarin life long. It is somewhat a hassle doing lab work every 2 or 3 weeks, but it is no biggie. You will have to decrease activities that might cause falls or bangs. To me it was a no brainer and worth the hassles to go with the mech. valve. Neither type of valve is trouble free, but you will be able to walk up a flight of stairs without getting out of breath. :-) God bless you with wisdom on your decisions, and bless your upcoming surgery and recovery!
Lora Lee Peterson I was scared out of my mind, also, when they told me. Never in a million years did I think I'd be ha ... Read more
Lora Lee Peterson I was scared out of my mind, also, when they told me. Never in a million years did I think I'd be having open heart surgery! Reading the posts and Adam's book, and all the other useful information on this site has helped me deal with this shocking twist. I am actually at the point now where I'm at peace with the fact that I have to have this done, and I'm excited to get it done. I'm excited to feel energetic again. I'll pray for you for peace for your mind and healing for your heart!
Jean Raber Well, Sherry, you sure don't look like a woman who's scared out of her mind in that picture. In fact, ... Read more
Jean Raber Well, Sherry, you sure don't look like a woman who's scared out of her mind in that picture. In fact, I want that woman to come and help me scare my doctors away from their numbers and charts and incoherent jargon and talk to me LIKE A PERSON, not that I have that much of a problem scaring people all on my own.
Just to add to the good mechanical/tissue valve info W. Carter offered above: Coumadin works fine for many people, and going to the clinic is not a big deal, but not everyone responds the same to Coumadin therapy. Doctors sometimes try to keep people in the "ideal" INR range rather than looking at what the individual patient can actually tolerate. A good doctor will try to find a balance to avoid GI bleeds.
Several people on here have had a type of mechanical valve that can be managed post-op with lower doses of Coumadin. (See the discussion on Rodd Kippen's journal about this; he made the decision to go mechanical.) And recent research shows that tissue valves are lasting longer than was previously expected. Your doctor can give you more info.
Finally, anxiety/fear is often a side effect of heart disease. I have had MVP-associated anxiety for decades, and I thought I was just a weakling until my cardiologist explained that it had a physical cause. The surgery news just adds to the anxiety. So keep being strong for your family, but tell your doc about the anxiety.
Sherry Nichols Hello Mrs. Jean thank you for responding. That picture was taken before the doctors decided to scare ... Read more
Sherry Nichols Hello Mrs. Jean thank you for responding. That picture was taken before the doctors decided to scare the crap out of me (lol). Your words are very encouraging and has brought my heart a joyful feeling. Thank you thank you!!!!!
Sherry Nichols Hi Janea, I would love to keep in touch. I will keep you in my prayers. Joining my new family/communi ... Read more
Sherry Nichols Hi Janea, I would love to keep in touch. I will keep you in my prayers. Joining my new family/community is a blessing. Just within the last 24 hours of me joining this group, everyone has been totally helpful in every way. I just want to say thank you everybody!!!!!!!
Jean Raber I took care of my mom at home after her aortic valve replacement two years ago, and I'd also add tha ... Read more
Jean Raber I took care of my mom at home after her aortic valve replacement two years ago, and I'd also add that if you can take a family member with you to the doctor to take notes, that's a real good idea. My mom's valve replacement was an emergency. She had fainted, was admitted through the ER, and had surgery within 72 hours, so I wrote down everything in a notebook: Test results, questions, answers, phone numbers, info, who'd called while she was sleeping, and what she needed at home. Later I used it to chart meds and keep a salt diary, as she was supposed to cut her salt intake. I could not have kept it all straight without writing it down. Now I've got my own notebook started against the day I'll need surgery. :-)
Janice Powell Hello Heart sister don't be afraid God got you and just go in with a clear mind and let his working A ... Read more
Janice Powell Hello Heart sister don't be afraid God got you and just go in with a clear mind and let his working Angels take care of you.. I'm three weeks in my recovering from mitral valve repair hallelujah it's a lil journey but if you got faith nothing could discourage you.. Girl you are protected by the blood and whatever you ask for you should have.. I'm sending you some encouragement and everybody different and just believe everything going to be alright soon you will have a fix brand new heart in the name of Jesus Amen!!! Take care I'm here if you need to talk..
Tammy Pilcher Prayers and best wishes, Sherry! God bless you!
Mary K Welcome to the site, Janice. I was scared and incredulous that I had to have open heart surgery (read ... Read more
Mary K Welcome to the site, Janice. I was scared and incredulous that I had to have open heart surgery (read my early posts). I am six weeks out now and grateful to be alive. It takes a while to come to that place, and surgery is no picnic, but life has all kinds if twists and turns. I am getting through this period in my life with a strong faith, increased reliance on family and friends, insistence on high quality medical care and help from all my new heart brothers and sisters on this site. You can do it too. We are all here for you.
Sherry Nichols Thanks Janice 😀 that is so true!!!! again I'm so grateful for all of you for the support and encou ... Read more
Sherry Nichols Thanks Janice 😀 that is so true!!!! again I'm so grateful for all of you for the support and encouragement
Janice Powell You are welcome Sherry my heart sister for life..💕
Rosemary Resler Sherry, I'm scard out of my gourd too! My upcoming surgery is 9/8/15. I think waiting is the worst, I ... Read more
Rosemary Resler Sherry, I'm scard out of my gourd too! My upcoming surgery is 9/8/15. I think waiting is the worst, I just want to get it over with too. This is my first day on this site, so looking forward to seeing how everyone is getting better day by day.
Janice Powell Welcome Rosemary you going to be alright also just trust in The Lord he will not let you down..
Rosemary Resler Thank you Janice, it's a very scary thing to go through. But I see how well everyone is doing post op ... Read more
Rosemary Resler Thank you Janice, it's a very scary thing to go through. But I see how well everyone is doing post op, so it does help to read everyone's story.
Janice Powell You are welcome Rosemary and I know been there and done that it's all a process you will get use to t ... Read more
Janice Powell You are welcome Rosemary and I know been there and done that it's all a process you will get use to the ideal that you will have To do what is needed and you will be ok you got to train your mind that is the way I got through and I'm sure a few others everyone is different so whatever that will keep you calm and get you to the point I'm ready to go through this and get it over with stick to it.. Glad you here read up and some of what you feeling will level out though take care..