Steve's Posts

The surgery went very well, and Dr. Sandhu and his surgical team were able to repair the valve and I did not require a valve replacement. The first day post-op was a little rough. Breathing was difficult and the chest tubes didn't help. I was up and walking the next day and it felt good to finally stretch. I found it most comfortable to sit/lay in the chair instead of the bed. Breathing in the bed, for me, was difficult and labored. Plus, the chair allowed me to easier control my body position. I only wish I would have brought a neck travel pillow as my neck was (and still is) pretty sore. I was amazed how much better I felt each day. The ICU staff at Northwestern Medicine were all top notch their support and encouragement helped considerably. I was walking without assistance on day four (4) and was cleared for discharge on day five (5). It's great to be home and even though it hasn't even been one (1) week since my surgery, I can't believe how good I feel. I cannot thank my wife enough for the support and caregiving during this time. I know it takes a toll on her, but she has remained strong and positive. There is a lot more recovery/rehabilitation still in my future, but I am ready to start this new life chapter. As always, to be continued…

The wait is almost over. I am more anxious than anything. I thought over and over, what else must I get done before the surgery. Quite frankly, nothing. I had my COVID test this morning, so back on house arrest. Trying not to dwell on the surgery, but really focusing more on the recovery. I trust my Surgeon, his staff, the Hospital and everyone else that will aid/assist in my surgery and recovery. Time to let them do their job. If I don't make another journey post before I head off of surgery, I want to thank everyone for your Stories, words of encouragement and, as I have said before, the strength to not fear this condition, but rather embrace, accept, and overcome. The more people that I talk to, the more I have come to realize heart disease affects just about everyone (in some form or another). To everyone here on HeartValveSurgery.com, Stay Strong! To those reading my Story and new to this site, please know that you are not alone and gain strength and knowledge (as I did ) from the outstanding people on this site. Not sure who originally said (wrote) this but...Did you ever wonder why the rear-view mirror is so small and the windshield so big? It's because you should focus on what's ahead of you and not behind. Keep Moving Forward! As always, to be continued....