Steve's Journal

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....

Received a call from Dr. Sandhu's office and they had to push my surgery one (1) day - it's now on 10/5/21. At least it wasn't longer. The insurance pre-authorization didn't arrive in time. Pretty much the story of my life. I knew I should have called the insurance company to ensure everything was good to go. Very frustrating, but looking at the positive, it's only one more wake up... Question: I called the insurance company to escalate the authorization and stayed on the phone with them until it was done. However, they only authorized a five (5) day hospital stay. Is this duration typical for mitral valve repair with a sternotomy? There's always drama in my life, and that's why I say... As always, to be continued....

It's one week prior to surgery and still feeling ready. I agree with everyone, and the wait is hard. My research has slowed down a little, as I think I was overdoing it. Some might say a little obsessed. I am still working from home and let my company know that as of 9/30/21, I'll be shutting down the phone and computer to focus on the surgery and recovery. Northwestern Medicine called this morning to go over the remaining testing (blood work, EKG, etc.), review medical history and the upcoming surgery, and schedule another COVID test. Even though I have had the date on my calendar since it was scheduled, the reality is setting in. I think I have everything covered and not quite sure want to do now (besides wait). At least the weather is nice in Illinois so I can still get outside and enjoy. This week will be focused on spending time with family (as much as I can given COVID) and playing with the dogs. I'll be taking it easy as I don't want to do anything to jeopardize the surgery (looks like building the shed will have to wait). I continue to be inspired by those whom have had mitral valve repair/replacement, especially those of recent surgeries, and gain strength from the stories. As always, to be continued....

Received a call yesterday from Dr. Sandhu's office and my surgery has been scheduled for October 4, 2021. Completed my Carotid & Vertebral Ultrasound this morning and should have the results in 1-2 days. Mixed emotions on the upcoming surgery. I still feel I am ready, as I knew the date was forthcoming, but I guess the reality has hit that this is really happening. Feeling well, and I will continue to work (from home) as long as possible. Work helps pass the time and keeps my mind busy. I just wish I could stay more physically active, as I hate to "sit around". Taking regular walks with the dogs helps. I apologize if I am sharing to much, but I am inspired by all the stories here. I hope that by documenting my journey will help the next person. As always, to be continued....

Today, I met with Dr. Sandhu and Michelle and both were great people. They answered all my questions and further explained the repair procedure. Based on the testing/imaging so far, Dr. Sandhu is confident my mitral valve is a repair and not a replacement. I do not have a surgery date yet, but should have one by the end of the week. At this moment, I think I am ready for the surgery. I continue to research and read other people's stories, which all keep my spirits high. I am certain there are going to up/downs along this journey, but I have a fantastic wife, kids, and family to support me along the way. This is a great community and I can't say enough praise about everyone here on HeartValveSurgery.com. Thank you to all the members and Adam for this very inspirational and educational site. As always, to be continued....

I live in Illinois (NW Suburbs of Chicago) and my surgical consult is not until September 8th. I am concerned with COVID and not being able to schedule the surgery quickly. Anyone that has or is having mitral valve repair surgery in Illinois experience(ing) any delays?

I guess I'll start with an update. The TEE procedure was completed on August 18, 2021 and a Coronary angiogram was completed on August 20, 2021. Still a little sore from the angiogram. It has been initially confirmed that a mitral valve repair will be required. It appears Cardiac Surgeons are quite busy, as my first consultation is not until September 8, 2021. I am not sure how quickly this whole process takes, but I am being told that I need to have surgery as soon as possible. Feeling well and still doing research on the mitral valve repair. I have watched well over a dozen videos on the surgical procedure and doing as much research on the recovery process. It is very empowering and encouraging to read everyone's stories, and knowing I am not alone. As always, to be continued....