Steven Dean - Heart Valve Journal

My Journal

Two Year Anniversary

Journal posted on August 5, 2018

Two years since my (second) valve surgery (AVR Edwards Bovine). Everything is going great. Just returned from a long game of pickup soccer and feeling good!

Like | Dan Vechiola, Rose Madura, Louanna Miller and 11 others like this

Susan Lynn Happy Two-Year Anniversary! ❤❤

Louanna Miller This is awesome to hear. Thanks for sharing and encouraging others who are heading into surgery for same or similar procedures.

Civita Fahey Great to hear Steven!

Almost 2 year update

Journal posted on June 12, 2018

Had an Echo this morning and everything is looking good for the Bovine valve (good = same as last time, trace leaking which is not concerning the cardiologist).

Like | Susan Lynn, Kelly Stoll, Helen Daw and 8 others like this

Bonnie Stone-Hope Wonderful news. Very happy for you.

Denise Kirchner Great news Steven! Happy to hear all is well with you!

Civita Fahey Great news Steven.. I followed your story before I had my surgery.. Happy all is going well.!

Judy Shaw Great news Steven!

Rose Madura Great news. Thanks for the positive update.

Steven Dean Thanks everyone!

Here's my newest picture!

September 9, 2017 Like | Rosemary Creutz, Rose Madura, Leslie Bakos and 8 others like this

Goodish News - The surgeon reviewed my TEE and says that the leak is minor, in the center of the valve, and is not uncommon in larger bovine valves. I also returned from a great hiking trip in the alps to celebrate 1 year (among other things)

Civita Fahey Great news!

Bridget Sawmiller I was just thinking about you today!! How is everything going? Sounds like a fun trip to the Alps! All is well here, sorry to hear about the small leak, any ... Read more

Bridget Sawmiller I was just thinking about you today!! How is everything going? Sounds like a fun trip to the Alps! All is well here, sorry to hear about the small leak, any business trips coming up that bring you to Detroit?

1 year (second time around) Bad News/Good News

Journal posted on August 5, 2017

1 year anniversary with my Edwards bovine valve. A bit of bad news, the valve has a small leak but not where a leak would be expected. On a regular echo it looked liked a paravalvular leak (on the outside of the valve). TEE showed that it was inside the valve but not in the center. The leak is pretty minor for now so we will watch and wait (check back in 4-6 months from now)

On to the good news. I otherwise feel fine, heart function and size is normal. I am off on a big vacation in a week that will include a 12 day hike in the alps!

Like | Nancy James, Shannon Gray, Bridget Sawmiller and 8 others like this

Phyllis Petersen Hopefully, it continues to be minor. Enjoy your vacation! I'm incredibly jealous. It's a very long time since I hiked in the alps.

Civita Fahey I hope it continues to be a minor problem Steve.. keep up the good work!

Here's my newest picture!

February 3, 2017 Like | Civita Fahey, Barbara Wood, Matthew Russo and 5 others like this

Steven Dean Beaver Creek two weeks ago and two weeks shy of 6months post AVR (Which will be Sunday)

Barbara Wood That's wonderful to see, gives me hope!

Steve Farthing You're looking good and handling the altitude. Great!

Phyllis Petersen Fantastic!

Margot Swann Hiking in the Alps after 6 months. That is so encouraging! Have a ball!

Here's my newest picture!

October 5, 2016 Like | Eddie Patton, David Augustus, Joshua Trimberger and 13 others like this

A little over 8 weeks post op. Backpacking trip in Bend OR. Cut short by some early season very wet snow but we got 1 night in.

Ellen Leng You look mah-velous!!!

David Augustus Awesome!!!

Phyllis Petersen Wow! I'm impressed!

Regan Runnalls I'll be stoked if I'm doing that at 8 weeks!

Priscila Marino Wow!!! Amazing!!!

Civita Fahey you look great Steven! what a beautiful picture..

Roseline Rosario Looking great!

Steven Dean Thanks everyone. Regan, I see no reason you can't beat me and be there at 7 weeks

Juergen Li Steven - we almost could have bumped into each other in the Bend area. Around that time I was mountain bike riding the whole Mrazek trail and the Phils trail ... Read more

Juergen Li Steven - we almost could have bumped into each other in the Bend area. Around that time I was mountain bike riding the whole Mrazek trail and the Phils trail system - 50 miles of fun before continuing in the Oakridge area. You are really looking great and doing well, a great inspiration for all that still facing surgery and recovery.

Robert D'Aurora Wow, you are an inspiration!

Echo Results - Everything looking good!

Journal posted on September 27, 2016

Just got back from the cardiologist. My sternum is healed and my echo results look good. My left ventricle is back down to basically normal (that was fast!) and my murmur is gone. The bovine valve looks good. My EF is a bit lower than normal, it was 55 preop and it is down to 45-50 but without the regurgitation which was letting about half back in.

Like | Phyllis Petersen, Darlene Smith, Jessica Urton and 11 others like this

Steven A Husted best wishes and prayers for a great recovery

Bob Fessler Wow, less that 8 weeks and your sternum is healed and the echo results look good. Sounds like surgery results that I want. Congratulations.

Kathi Mancuso Congrats !!!!

Jessica Urton Yayyyy great news!!

Ellen Leng Congrats! Bet you feel better too :)

Catie B Congrats, Steven!

Kevin Lee Steven that is awesome. Also glad to hear that the over all heart is healing as well. Looking forward to my echo results in March to see the over all effects of my surgery.

Roseline Rosario Yay!

Corey Sines Awesome! EF can take a little time to bounce back as your heart remodels and adjusts.

Steven Dean Thanks everyone. Its nice to get good news from an echo for the first time in a long time (if ever). Last surgery my very first echo revealed the repair didn't work so this was quite a relief .

Elizabeth Ott Hi Steve, it seems I have fallen into the same situation that you did in2012. I had mitral valve repair 10/5/15 and had a follow up echo 3 months later which ... Read more

Elizabeth Ott Hi Steve, it seems I have fallen into the same situation that you did in2012. I had mitral valve repair 10/5/15 and had a follow up echo 3 months later which showed severe regurgitation again. I had a bunch of tee echoes over the past six months and my cardiologist says I shouldn't wait years to do the redo. I recovered well from the surgery with the exception that it triggered Chronic migraine. I am more afraid of the second surgery exacerbating that problem. Also, what made you changed your mind to go with a bioprosthetic valve replacement when you are under 50 years old? I'm 50 and very athleitic but I don't want to have a guaranteed 3rd OHS in my future. Glad you are doing well. One other thing, did your first surgeon give you any explanation as to why the repair failed?

6 weeks - Doing well

Journal posted on September 15, 2016

Tomorrow is 6 weeks. Sort of hard to believe. I went for a "jog" (didn't go too far and a good deal of walking involved) this evening since the weather was nice and I am eager to get back on the soccer pitch. It seems like it is a little ways off still but I think this was a good first step. Recalling last recovery I think I was a little further along at 6 weeks though I had a smaller incision that time. I have been back to work for almost 2 weeks which has been good. The first week back I really missed the couch but this week not as much. I have an echo next Thursday and a visit with my cardiologist a week from Tuesday. Hopefully everything is looking good.

Like | Kathleen F., Jessica Urton, Bridget Sawmiller and 13 others like this

Bridget Sawmiller Sounds like you are doing great! I have an echo next Wednesday and will have a 30 day heart monitor, so hopefully everything will look great for both of us. ... Read more

Bridget Sawmiller Sounds like you are doing great! I have an echo next Wednesday and will have a 30 day heart monitor, so hopefully everything will look great for both of us. Tell Gloria and your Mom hello from Jay and me!

Two plus weeks

Journal posted on August 21, 2016

It has been a little over two weeks and I am feeling pretty good. Overall I think recovery is going even better than last time (outside of the first couple of days, which were a bit tougher due to the tubes having to stay in longer). I walked over 4 miles total yesterday and felt great. Working on getting back focus and energy. Thanks to friends, family and neighbors for all of the support!

Like | Darlene Smith, Jody Adams, Lise Bowles and 16 others like this

Bridget Sawmiller So glad to hear you are recovering well! It is so great to get out and walk and sounds like you are doing fantastic. I did about 5,500 steps today, which included ... Read more

Bridget Sawmiller So glad to hear you are recovering well! It is so great to get out and walk and sounds like you are doing fantastic. I did about 5,500 steps today, which included 2 walks outside today, one in the morning by myself and one in the afternoon with Jay and my neighbor Jen. Glad to hear you are recovering well!

Juergen Li Steven - glad ro hear you are making great progress with the walking. You know tha this will heal you and make you feel better much faster - keep up the great recovery.

Steven Dean Thanks to both of you. So glad that you are both doing so well. Walks outside are so nice, especially when the weather is good, which it has been here the last two days.

Franklin Wyrick Glad to hear that you are doing so well, Steven. Keep up the walking, its the greatest medicine ever.

Home

Journal posted on August 12, 2016

They almost made us stay the weekend for an x-Ray on Monday but they saw the look on our faces and talked with the cardiology fellow who has been looking after me and they let us go. The drive was no problem for me, we made good use of rest stops. At home getting up to the second floor (a couple times already) was also no problem. Last time i was released from the hospital on day 4 and was in bad shape when I got home. This time saying in almost a week I feel pretty fine now that I am home. Pain is mostly in the arms and some other collateral damage areas. Still some discomfort all around but feeling pretty good overall.

Like | Bridget Sawmiller, Joshua Trimberger, Barbara Laurie and 11 others like this

Catie B Congrats! So glad they sprang you out of there so you could go home! Great to hear you're feeling so good this early. : )

Bridget Sawmiller Fantastic news, continued prayers for a speedy recovery! So great to meet you and your Mom, bummed we didn't get to meet Gloria. Our best to you, Bridget and Jay

Priscila Marino What a blessing to be home!!! I am glad the second time around was better for you!!! But,would you care to elaborate " other collateral areas"???

Steven Dean Priscila, my left arm do example is very sore. I think from the position it was in while under.

Corey Sines Awesome to hear Steve!, hope the rest of recovery is speedy and uneventful.

Here's my newest picture!

August 11, 2016 Like | Eddie Patton, Eddie Patton, Conrad Skowronski and 5 others like this

We are bustin out

You're freeeeee. Good luck man feels good to be home you will see.
Felt so good to be with my wife today. Went and got my INR draw then we went shopping. I ... Read more

You're freeeeee. Good luck man feels good to be home you will see.
Felt so good to be with my wife today. Went and got my INR draw then we went shopping. I got tired but did not quit now I am going to take a nap.

Juergen Li And you should also ge some sleep - enjoy!

Bridget Sawmiller Awesome, the ride was no big deal for me also

Priscila Marino 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

Chest Tubes and Pacing wires out.

Journal posted on August 9, 2016

Feeling a lot better having those out. As most of you who have done this know they feel strange coming out but it's a huge turning point once they do.

Like | Joanne Casserly, Gloria Maier, ConNie Romo and 24 others like this

Denise Kirchner I agree! I am not looking forard to that at all the second time around!

Kevin Shackelford Awesome! 👍👍

Bridget Sawmiller Fantastic news!

True the 1st one made me gasp for air, second i did not even feel.

Steven Dean Denise, it was just today but already feels like a distant memory.

Wanda Mroz Agree!

Corey Sines Great news!

Today was better

Journal posted on August 8, 2016

I get the feeling that my stint as guest blogger is nearing its end. Steve picked up his phone this evening and checked his own email and texts, which has to be some sort of modern-day surgery recovery milestone.

Other milestones from the day include: Steve was freed from the drainage tubing contraptions midday. One was removed completely; the other two ports were disconnected from the yards of tube and the plastic box things and attached to small plastic bulbs to catch the remaining drainage. Once that was done, it was less hard to stand up and move around a little.

Steve also took his first walks down the hall this afternoon. We're going to go again soon, after he wakes up from a nap.

Gloria

Like | Elaine Cutri, Kate Watson, Bridget Sawmiller and 16 others like this

Adam Pick Gloria, You have been an amazing 'Guest Blogger'. Thanks so much for keeping our community informed about Steve's progress. :)

Juergen Li Yes - the plastic balls are a really special fun experience, especially walking with them when they are attached to your gown below the belt line? I hope Steve ... Read more

Juergen Li Yes - the plastic balls are a really special fun experience, especially walking with them when they are attached to your gown below the belt line? I hope Steve will enjoy this as well - is for a short time only.

Recovery is hard

Journal posted on August 8, 2016

Steve is 3 days out from surgery now. Yesterday was a hard day, with little identifiable progress. A bright spot was Bridget's visit from the sixth floor. Yesterday Steve ate a little, but nothing tastes good as a result of the anesthesia still in his system and all of the other medications. (For the sake of science, urination was also one of yesterday's achievements and everyone was relieved that there was no need to recatheterize like last time around).

Steve still has all of his chest tubes in. Two of the three continue to collect some drainage, so it is likely he will keep those two another day. All of the tubing makes it even harder to stand up and move from chair to bed (as each tube is attached to its own plastic box contraption), and the whole tubing situation is just very annoying but necessary.

The goal for today, in addition to losing at least one of the drainage tubes, is to walk a little in the hallways. I am sure it will be hard, but I think getting out of the room and feeling progress will be really good for Steve.

Steve was amazed to hear that his photo from yesterday morning made it to Facebook and has over 1,500 comments - he's not quite ready to read them all, but it will be a nice thing to do when he's feeling a bit better, and he continues to appreciate the supportive notes.

I think we're likely to be here at the hospital until Wednesday, but that's really just a guess.

Gloria

Like | Joanne Casserly, Jessica Urton, Blaise Mancini and 9 others like this

Joanne Casserly We aware that what can happen and it did to me, they kept me in ICU too long and I developed ICU phychosis, (sp) it was not nice, at all, so you make sure he's ... Read more

Joanne Casserly We aware that what can happen and it did to me, they kept me in ICU too long and I developed ICU phychosis, (sp) it was not nice, at all, so you make sure he's up about and moved into step down, ASAP or there is a good chance this can happen and I would wish it on my worst enemy surrounded by top surgeons, no one knew what it was, but for my cardio doc when she came up and she pitched a fit and demanded that I be moved out, I was home 2 day's, after that. God Bless and trust me, it will get better, I'm 8 weeks today, in fact. :heart

Gloria Maier Thanks, Joanne - that sounds really tough. Glad your recovery is better now. Luckily Steve is out of ICU, but even so he is just very very exhausted. The cardiac ... Read more

Gloria Maier Thanks, Joanne - that sounds really tough. Glad your recovery is better now. Luckily Steve is out of ICU, but even so he is just very very exhausted. The cardiac rehab nurse came by and told him that they would do some walking this afternoon, which we are looking forward to.

Patrick Dowd Stay strong Steve. That first walk down the hall is tough but soon it will be around the nursing station. Then down for a shower, then home and down the block, then around the block GoGoGo.

Juergen Li I can relate to the tubing and all the cables - was annoying but then this is for a short time only. In my case they replaced those plastic suction units with ... Read more

Juergen Li I can relate to the tubing and all the cables - was annoying but then this is for a short time only. In my case they replaced those plastic suction units with little round suction balls after day one - gave me great mobility and also reduced the noise that those suctions made. My experience - walking is the best medicine as it helps physically and emotionally.

Catie B Sorry to hear it's been so tough. But I hope standing up and moving will be excellent medicine and encourage you much. Hope your days start getting easier from this point on.

Rock on Steve you got this.

Here's my newest picture!

August 7, 2016 Like | Conrad Skowronski, Cathleen DeWitt, Adam Pick and 17 others like this

Two days after surgery, Steve is looking forward to getting rid of some chest tubes

Looking good buddy. I am feeling good hoping to hear I'll be released monday, that is my wish at least.

Adam Pick Way to go Steve!!!

Catie B Hope they pull those tubes soon. Great photo! Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Ray Miller Keep up the good work.

Bob Fessler Hope I look that good after surgery. Keep feeling better.

Denise Kirchner Hang in there Steve - you've got this! Praying for more progress today for you - one day at a time! God Bless!

Corey Sines Awesome man, keep your chin up as well as your thumbs!

Bridget Sawmiller Looking great! Jay and I really enjoyed the visit yesterday with you and your Mom. I tried to make it down there today, but my pulse was too high and my blood ... Read more

Bridget Sawmiller Looking great! Jay and I really enjoyed the visit yesterday with you and your Mom. I tried to make it down there today, but my pulse was too high and my blood pressure too low, I will try later. I hope you are up and walking!

Steven Dean I was hoping to make it down yesterday but I got the wires out and then had a transfusion so I couldn't get too far. I am feeling better today though (Wednesday)

Bridget Sawmiller So great to visit with you and your Mom over the past few days. Bummed we did not get to meet Gloria. Hoping you are still getting discharged today. I am and ... Read more

Bridget Sawmiller So great to visit with you and your Mom over the past few days. Bummed we did not get to meet Gloria. Hoping you are still getting discharged today. I am and will probably be leaving around noon to 1pm. Best heart brother, please keep in touch!

Out of ICU

Journal posted on August 6, 2016

Steve and I are both pleased to report that he is out of the ICU and into a private room in the cardiac step-down unit. I just read him my journal posts from yesterday and all of the comments and guestbook posts. Steve sends his thanks! (and shout out to Adam Pick - thanks for creating this community space!)

Steve is napping now. He is feeling a bit more pain in his chest after the move from ICU to the new room, which is hopefully just a result of the extra exertion that it took to move from bed to bed. His drainage tubes will remain in until tomorrow, because there's still a lot of drainage from the chest, but once those are out it will be easier for Steve to start moving around, little by little. Having been through this once before, Steve is already diligently doing his breathing exercises about once an hour.

Like | Bridget Sawmiller, Joshua Trimberger, Barbara Laurie and 13 others like this

Bridget Sawmiller What room is he in?

Gloria Maier J53-15

Recovering in ICU

Journal posted on August 5, 2016

Steve's mom and I got to spend about 2 hours with Steve in the ICU this afternoon. We saw him briefly just after he arrived in the ICU at about 3 p.m., while he was still intubated, and then we had a longer visit after the breathing tube was removed. We were able to give him ice chips and then water as the anesthesia wore off and he became able to handle them.

We also read him a few of today's text messages from friends and family, which he appreciated. While he couldn't quite keep his eyes open, he managed to grimace (appreciatively!) at all of the promises of hugs, and he wanted me to remind you all that he just had his chest cut open and can't hug for a while. We didn't quite get through all of the messages today, as he tired out, but I am happy to have some material on reserve for the morning.

The ICU nurses seem to think that he will likely get discharged from ICU tomorrow and moved to a step-down unit in the afternoon. Fingers crossed.

-Gloria

Like | Bridget Sawmiller, Wanda Mroz, Kate Watson and 12 others like this

Clare Auten Sounds like things are going well.

Denise Kirchner You are doing great Steven!

Bridget Sawmiller Excellent, I am still in ICU, hope to be in step down tomorrow, maybe I can do a walk and come over and visit for a few minutes

Franklin Wyrick Sounds like things are going well. I wishing you a speedy recovery now that you are on the other side.

Steven A Husted praise the lord you made it thru i know those ice chips must have tasted good they did to me i never knew ice chips could taste so good best wishes for a great recovery

Bridget Sawmiller The ice chips were the best tasting thing ever!!!!!

Steve Wykstra Best wishes to you, Steven!

MaryAnn Laudati You look good, and once those tubes come out it will be a big relief. Rest and get better soon.

Surgery went well

Journal posted on August 5, 2016

Steve is out of surgery. We met with the surgeon, Dr. Johnston, who told us that everything went smoothly. He replaced Steve's aortic valve with an Edwards Perimount valve, which is a cow tissue valve. The hope is that if the tissue fails in the future, it can be replaced through a less-invasive transcatheter procedure.

We will get to see Steve briefly in ICU in the next hour - he will be pretty out of it for the rest of the day, but I look forward to sharing your messages with him when he's more recovered.

-Gloria

Like | Darlene Smith, Denise Kirchner, Joshua Trimberger and 21 others like this

Priscila Marino Great news!!!! Speedy recovery to him!!!! Keep us posted!!

Denise Kirchner Wonderful news! Praise God for a safe and successful surgery!

Bridget Sawmiller Great news! What floor is he on for ICU? I am still in ICU, 6th floor

Conrad Skowronski Way to go Steve!

Corey Sines Awesome to hear! Wishing him an uneventful and quick recovery!

Adam Pick Fannnnnnnn-tastic!!! Go Steve! Go! Also, for those interested to learn about Dr. Johnston, Steve's surgeon, click the link below. https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/surgeons/dr-Douglas-Johnston-Cleveland-Ohio.php ... Read more

Dr. Douglas Johnston - Heart Surgeon in Cleveland, Ohio

https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/surgeons/dr-Douglas-Johnston-Cleveland-Ohio.php

See patient reviews, physician biography and videos of Dr. Douglas Johnston, heart surgeon, with phone number and address in Cleveland, Ohio.

Barbara Laurie Congratulations Steve, Recovery can have ups & downs, but hoping yours will be smooth. Best Regards!❤️

Susan Schweter Great news, prayers for a smooth recovery

Diane Zeigler Such good news. CC is wonderful. They have fantastic nurses. I hope all continues to go well.

Update posted on...

August 5, 2016

Hello friends, family, and HVJ community! Just wanted to update you on Steve's surgery. Surgery started at 8:50 this morning, and at 11:26 they started the major portion of the surgery. We expect it will take a couple more hours, and we hope to see Steve in the ICU by around 5 this evening.

-Gloria

Like | Bridget Sawmiller and 9 others like this

Lise Bowles Thank you Gloria! Omg, tell Stephen I think he is Superman! Having to go through this twice requires bravery beyond words! I know there's no choice in the matter ... Read more

Lise Bowles Thank you Gloria! Omg, tell Stephen I think he is Superman! Having to go through this twice requires bravery beyond words! I know there's no choice in the matter but God Bless Him. Stephen I hope and pray your recovery is bearable and you feel better ASAP! Lots of prayers heading your way!

Susan Schweter praying for you Steven. Hoping your recovery is an easy one.

Check in at 5:15am tomorrow.

Journal posted on August 4, 2016

Early start tomorrow. If 2012 was any indication Gloria will bee keeping you updated regularly. Cannot express enough how much I appreciate the support from friends, family and members of this community.

Looking forward to getting back out onto the pitch,on my bike, and into the backcountry. Surgeon told me not to cancel my October backpacking trip in Oregon. We will see.

Like | Steven Dean, Nap Garcia, Joshua Trimberger and 12 others like this

Janet Dunavin Praying for you!

Steven Dean Also been thinking about Bridget all day. Hoping for the best.

Joshua Trimberger good luck! I am planning a recovery hiking trip as well!

Susan Schweter Good luck, I will be thinking about you.

Priscila Marino Sending good vibes and lots of prayers to you..... Hope all goes well.... We all going to be thinking of you!!! ;)

Bridget Sawmiller I am in ICU, doing great!

Kevin Lee Prayers to you Sir.

Heart cath complete

Journal posted on August 3, 2016

Just finished. Not nearly as bad as I thought. They went through my right wrist so it's tough to type on my phone. Just like to thank everyone for support and well wishes!

Like | Gloria Maier, Bridget Sawmiller, Cathleen DeWitt and 15 others like this

Bridget Sawmiller Great news, had mine yesterday too, went through the wrist. Where are you staying?

Steven Dean We are downtown until tomorrow and then have an air bnb near the CC

Bridget Sawmiller You should go see PJ. I saw her again today.

Steven Dean How do I do that.

Amy Dorsey Room J1-15

Corey Sines Yea I much prefer the wrist to the groin, ah.. progress! Good luck on your surgery tomorrow, I will be praying for you.

Surgery #2 August 5

Journal posted on July 20, 2016

It has been a while since I have updated this. I didn't think I would be using it this time around but it is both a nice way to update friends and family and an amazing community of fellow HV friends. It has been just over 4 years since my previous surgery, an attempted AV repair, and I have known since a few weeks after the surgery that the repair didn't take and a follow up surgery would be coming and I am pretty thankful I got 4 years (though I was hoping for 5 at the time). The last 4 years have been pretty great, probably the best 4 I have had, so I am feeling okay going into the surgery because I know OHS will not really slow me down. If anything my physical activity has increased (fairly significantly) since the surgery.

The plan is for Dr. Johnston at CC to put in a bioprosthetic valve. Even though this will mean another surgery in the future I am hopeful that I can get at least 10 years and that the next surgery will be valve-in-valve TAVR. This will allow me to keep playing soccer, which I started playing extensively after my last surgery (up to 4 days a week).

I might have a few more posts between now and the surgery but Gloria (now my wife!) will be keeping everyone updated during surgery and in the early recovery. She is pretty excited about yoga on the roof at Cleveland Clinic.

Wishing everyone whose surgery is coming up or has just happened the best and maybe I will see some fellow HVJers walking the halls in Cleveland.

Like | Kate Watson, Shannon Gray, Bridget Sawmiller and 10 others like this

Franklin Wyrick Best of luck to you Steven. Its very likely that by the time your bio valve fails you should be able to have a tavr. That's what I'm counting on.

Denise Kirchner Hi Steven. I too will be going through surgery #2 at CC on September 13th. A re-do on my mitral valve repair. The valve started to leak again shortly after ... Read more

Denise Kirchner Hi Steven. I too will be going through surgery #2 at CC on September 13th. A re-do on my mitral valve repair. The valve started to leak again shortly after my repair in May 2012 and a TEE in June confirmed it has progressed to moderately severe. Dr. Eric Roselli did my first surgery and will be doing the re-operation. I will keep you in my prayers. I think I followed your story the first time around. Take care and God bless you!

Steven Dean Thank you both. Denise, we did both have surgery late May 2012. Sorry to hear that you are going through it again. Hopefully we both get better results this time around!

Corey Sines Good Luck Steven, wishing you a speedy recovery. I have a near future surgery upcoming for replacement of a failed Mitral repair, so you aren't alone!

Catie B Wishing you the best, Steven, on your upcoming surgery, and a very speedy recovery.

Cathleen DeWitt Steven I had TAVR last August after 3 AVR's...it was amazing!!! Good luck with your surgery and know that technology will be even more advanced in 10 years ... Read more

Cathleen DeWitt Steven I had TAVR last August after 3 AVR's...it was amazing!!! Good luck with your surgery and know that technology will be even more advanced in 10 years so as you said hopefully this will be the last OHS!

insurance question - federal employees?

Journal posted on December 5, 2012

Hey everyone,

Is anyone out there who has gone through or is going through surgery a federal employee? It is open season and since there is a chance I will need surgery again I am trying to choose an insurance that will allow me the most/best hospital options with reasonable coverage. I would appreciate any input.

Otherwise, I am doing great. Been up to pre-surgery standards (which was good for me) for a while now. Back on my bike and playing soccer. I hiked old rag a couple weeks ago and felt fine.

Thanks,

Steve

Like | 1 person likes this

finally and update

Journal posted on September 24, 2012

Hey everyone,

Sorry I haven't posted in a long time. At this point it has been easiest for me to not think to much about everything.

I saw the cardiologist last week and everything is the same as last time, which I guess is about as good as I could have hoped for. No second surgery for now. The plan is to monitor every three months.

I am otherwise feeling great.

I will post again if anything comes up.

Love you all,

Steve

Like |

update

Journal posted on July 29, 2012

Sorry for the long delay on the update. I am still alive but not so great news from the echo. Looks like there is still leaking. I don't know too much at this point but am going in for a follow up echo in Sept. Plan for now is to just go on and not really think about it much.

I am otherwise feeling great with my recovery.

Hope everyone else is doing well.

Like | 1 person likes this

echo

Journal posted on July 12, 2012

Echo has been moved to tomorrow morning. Hoping for good news!

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quick update

Journal posted on July 9, 2012

Have not updated in a while. Still doing well, just got back from a really nice vacation I had planned before I knew I was having surgery this year. Really glad I was able to go.

Sad to see Thomas had to go back in for more procedures but glad to see he is doing so well.

I probably will not be posting very frequently unless I have an actual update which should come after my echo (currently scheduled for July 24 but hopefully can get it before then)

Like |

One Month

Journal posted on June 23, 2012

Today marks one month since surgery and I am still doing well. Two days ago (Thursday) I returned to work. The only issue with work is avoiding the morning rush hour on the subway. I actually ended up staying at work longer than planned (it was close to 100 degrees out and work has central air and home does not).

Like |

Follow up with surgeon

Journal posted on June 18, 2012

Hey all, everything is progressing really well for me. I had a brief follow up with the surgeon today (no tests just checked out my incision and listened to my heart and lungs) and he says everything is looking great.

I am feeling really well and have been able to get out of the house a good deal.

Like |

Two weeks!

Journal posted on June 6, 2012

Two weeks after surgery and I am feeling mostly pretty great. I am way ahead of where I thought I would be at this point. So far I have been moving almost completely forward every day. Walks are getting longer, daily activities are getting easier.

Getting a little stir crazy but I am going to try and walk to the local coffee shop for some decaf and some reading in the mornings.

Tomorrow is my first day on my own for most of the day. I think it will be fine.

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Congrats Megan & Gabe

Journal posted on June 4, 2012

I had a really good weekend, physically and mentally getting out of the house a lot for the first time.

Saturday morning Gloria and I went to the farmers market. Its walking distance but it was a bit out of my range so we drove. It was nice to be out but the crowds were a bit much for me so we didn't stay too long.

Saturday evening, I am happy to say I made it to Megan & Gabe's wedding ceremony. The ceremony was very nice and it was good to be there. The priest made a heart surgery reference, which was a bit of a coincidence. I did not attend the reception, I think that would have been way too much this early.

Sunday I went out for both lunch and dinner for the first time. Lunch was a pretty big adventure as it was a sit down restaurant and we were there for a while but it was great to be out.

Overall, things are progressing pretty well. Sleeping through the night is the biggest challenge but its getting better.

This week, I need to step up my walking and take some longer walks.

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clean shaven

Journal posted on May 31, 2012

I finally shaved, which felt really great. Overall I am doing really well this morning. Getting better every day.

I am having some trouble at night still but hoping to get past that soon. Also, some fingers in my left hand went numb last night but the doctor said not to worry.

Thanks to Ali and Kelly for coming over last night and thanks to Kelly for brining over the peruvian chicken, i am excited about lunch already.

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progress

Journal posted on May 30, 2012

seem to be past the rough patch (for now) feeling pretty good today.

Looking forward to the game tonight. Go USA!

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One Week

Journal posted on May 30, 2012

One week ago right now I was in surgery (or so they say, I don't remember). In terms of my recovery from surgery things have been going very well.

Sunday wasn't too bad, I was still getting used to being home. I had a nice visit from Kay and Jon and we went for a walk.

Monday was maybe my best day all around, the pain management was easy, walks were not too difficult and I was even able to laugh a little with not much pain and Brian and Ali stopped by.

Yesterday started out well even though it was Gloria's first day back at work (I can't say enough about how helpful she has been), but by midafternoon I was running a small fever. Eric and Isabella stopped by and we went for a walk, which took my mind of the fever.

When Gloria got home, she I think correctly, theorized that the fever was because I had made a huge reduction in my oxycodone intake. I took one before bed and was feeling better. However, I woke up and had a tough night with leg pains and sweating and genearl uncomfortableness. It seems like I am having a lot more trouble than expected getting off this oxycodone, which is a shame because I don't really need it much anymore and am otherwise doing great.

Going to start with a slower withdrawal program today.

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First morning back home

Journal posted on May 27, 2012

Hey everyone, its me. I finally have the energy to post myself.

Everything is still pretty hard, its little things that you don't realize you will miss the most. I am trying to space out my pain meds more and more and think I made some progress on that last night. I am not sure how some people get off these pains meds so quickly. One of the doctors did tell me that younger people feel more pain, so I guess I just have to deal with that for a while.

Getting out of my own bed this morning was a mental hurtle but it turned out that it wasn't that big of a challenge.

Its pretty hot and humid back here, which sucks, but we got the AC (window units) working overtime.

I hope everyone else who is currently recovering is doing well. I know it is really selfish but I am a little afraid of reading other peoples posts for fear of an emotional set back on my end. I am still thinking about everyone else who is going through this and hoping for the best for all.

Looking forward to a walk up the block later, even thought it is really hot out there.

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Going home! (7 pm on Day 4)

Journal posted on May 26, 2012

We are waiting for a tech with a wheelchair to take Steve down to the car. Fortunately, home is a mere 2 miles from the hospital - we can practically see it from the hospital room window.

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Morning of Day 4

Journal posted on May 26, 2012

Steve slept better last night than he did the previous night. His replacement bed was malfunction-free, thankfully. They also upped his pain medication dosage, so he gets more like 4 hours of relief, rather than 2.

For the sake of those other HVJers who are reading this before their own surgeries, he asked me to note that urination was a bug struggle on Days 2-3, and they had to re-catheter him on Day 3 morning. But it got better the afternoon of Day 3, and now is no longer an issue.

I asked Steve if he had anything else to add to this post, and he said "just that you and my parents have been really good at taking care of me."

He also doesn't know how some HVJers were able to journal so soon after their surgeries. So the guest posts will continue a little longer.

-Gloria

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Napping, afternoon of day 3

Journal posted on May 25, 2012

Steve is napping while he waits for the nurse to come in for her 4 pm visit. She'll give him more pain meds, which are now being given in pill form, rather than by drip. He misses the pain med button, and was told today that while younger patients heal faster, they feel more pain as they heal. She's also going to change his gown, which is unpleasantly being soaked by drainage from where his drainage port was.

But - he is happy to be free of the drain, and the big neck port, and all of the tubes. All that remains is a single wrist IV. Getting rid of all of that baggage makes it much easier for him to move from bed to chair, and to take a walk down the hall. Not that any of those feats of strength are easy today, but they are better than they were yesterday.

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Day Three - Are We Having Fun Yet

Journal posted on May 25, 2012

There were a few hiccups overnight. Steve's very high tech bed started to malfunction, so it effectively felt like a deflated air mattress every ten minutes... but he was able to get at least some decent sleep in, and this morning the medical team removed many of his wires and tubes. After and x-ray, he is going to practice walking down the hall again.

I posted before and after pictures of Steve - look under "My Photos."

Hopefully later Steve will dictate a post.

-Gloria

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Here's my newest picture!

July 21, 2015 Like |

Steve After - morning of day 2

Here's my newest picture!

July 21, 2015 Like |

Steve Before

Bedtime on Day 2

Journal posted on May 24, 2012

I wouldn't say that today was terribly fun for Steve but he made it through. This afternoon Steve walked down the hallway, and he reported that it "was not so bad." But later this evening he had some issues with his drainage port, which stays in until tomorrow. It is leaking and making a bloody mess, but while stressful, it is fairly normal. He's dozing now, and will hopefully get good rest tonight. Lots to look forward to tomorrow - drainage port comes out, big IVs come out, more sitting, a bit more walking, more breathing exercises.

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Painful day

Journal posted on May 24, 2012

Steve's is happy to be out of the CVRR, and into his new private room. It's much quieter. Today is just going to be a rough day, I think - the pain and discomfort is pretty bad. He's moving from bed to chair a couple of times today, and is pretty exhausted by it all.

I asked him if he wanted to dictate a post, but I think it is too much to deal with. He says "hi."

I have been reading everyone's texts, emails, get well cards, and guestbook posts to him - he really appreciates the support, so keep them coming!

-Gloria

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Moved to step-down unit

Journal posted on May 24, 2012

At 9 this morning, Steve was moved from the CVRR (intensive care) to a room on the 4th floor in a step-down cardiac care unit. We got to see him as they wheeled him in a wheelchair out of the CVRR, and we rode the elevator with him. Now we're waiting for the staff to settle him into his new bed before we can really visit. He seemed to be in pain on the ride, and didn't say much - I can only imagine that sitting and being moved is quite uncomfortable, given the healing incision and all of the tubes - but I think they will start disconnecting some of the tubes later today. I'll keep you posted.

-Gloria

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Ice chips and spirometer