Terrie Syvertsen - Heart Valve Journal

Terrie Syvertsenposted an update

718 days ago

Rose Madura, Shannon Gray, Mike Tirrell and reacted to this

I woke up this morning to the smell of smoke. I gathered Rylee and opened up the patio door to search for Kat who I found laying on the bench with a Cheshire ...Read more

I woke up this morning to the smell of smoke. I gathered Rylee and opened up the patio door to search for Kat who I found laying on the bench with a Cheshire grin, her tail curling up and twitching in anticipation of the imminent attack and chase that pretty much begins at this time daily. Rylee(our Springer spaniel) and Kat(his best for friend) began circling one another and the game was afoot..... I had donned my mask as I joined and looked over our garden which was dizzying do to the light wind pushing the smoke and haze through the branches of the Japanese maple tree, thru the lavender butterfly Bush where it then ricocheted off the fence and found it's way towards me...... I headed towards the end of the garden and thought how out of place the colors of several beautiful blossoming rose trees and bushes looked as if each were reaching out and up with branches reaching out for fresh air, water, healthy light. Now the flowers sat beneath a cloudy smoke filled sky with an orange sun struggling to break thru. Beautiful in an unexpected way. There is a fire here 30 miles southwest of our city. Lightning struck early Sunday and yet one more fire for the State of California to deal with along with the continuing threat from the Coronovirus which is on the rise in our State again. Well...Rylee and Kat are patiently waiting for me to let them inside so I push back the door and all 3 of us stumble together into the house where the ceiling fan is happily pushing back on the smelly smoke that wafted in as we entered. Better air..air conditioning going as we have been in the hundreds all week again! In again and settled I am thinking that this wasn't the way I had intended to celebrate the Surgery date upon reaching my 6th year of having my heart valve replaced. Well here I am heart Brothers and Sisters! Alive and writing my annual update at having survived yet, another year on our very busy planet. Going over and over in my head what this site and all of our community did to make it possible from start to finish. Surgery decisions, appointments, tests, questions and the ability to have a place here at "Adam Picks' Place to find people sharing my same experiences. It's been a blessing to have been a part of this community for me, friends I met here, and to those of you who have just arrived, I am sure. So I popped back in to say hello and hope all is going well for you who are just beginning your adventure, waiting for your surgery, in the process of healing or popping back to celebrate the continuance of this thing we share called Life. After cataracts giving me hell happy to report new lenses have led me here today, back to my carvings and writing. Couldn't think of a better way to celebrate this day than to cuddle up with Rylee and Kat while wishing you all good health and happiness and continued success with your health Events. Thanks for sharing this special day with me and if anyone needs someone to encourage them, share thoughts, questions feel free to write. Love to you all, Terrie, Rylee and Kat

Elaine Foster So very happy to hear from you Terrie, and know that you are doing well. 6 years! Mine is coming in ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsen Hello Elaine! Wonderful to see your smiling photo near your response and to read that you are doing w ... Read more

Ana Brusso Congratulations on your 6th year anniversary, great writing. Thank you for posting uplifting post

Rita Savelis Happy 6th anniversary Terrie.
So happy to read another of yr lovely posts. Take care.

Terrie Syvertsen Hi Rita! I am glad you posted as I was just checking in on quite a few of my heart sisters and brothe ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsen Ana, Thanks for the congats.. and for kind words.Hope your rehab is going well!

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

1084 days ago

Diane Maher, Elaine Cutri, Shannon Gray and reacted to this

Good day to all of my heart brothers and sisters out in this big, beautiful world. I am sitting on an old chair in the backyard at home in the corner of our ...Read more

Good day to all of my heart brothers and sisters out in this big, beautiful world. I am sitting on an old chair in the backyard at home in the corner of our yard...coffee cup in hand. Not too far away, Rylee and Kat are investigating a recent mound where moments ago a small gopher had surfaced to bid them a good morning before hastily retreating to safety. I swear I could hear his little heart beating! It is a beautiful, reflective morning here in California. There is a gentle breeze rustling the Maple leaves beside me as I sip my coffee and remember where I was only 5 short years ago at this same time. At this time, it was Hunter and Kat playing under the peach tree at home while I was being wheeled into a room after my heart valve replacement surgery. I remember it now as if it were yesterday. Happy to feel myself breathing and aware of just how precious every moment would be from this day forward. A feeling I carry now and doubt I will ever lose as in this day of celebration I reflect on this site, the reason for this long post. I remember stumbling upon this site when I was alone in my home..not knowing where to turn. Questions too many to hold inside a head that felt like bursting for not having answers. Facing fears I had no way of beating down. Noone who knew what I was going thru. Then one by one, like out of a fog my heart brothers and sisters came forward and in time, shared their hearts with mine. There were no questions left unanswered. No feelings left unchecked and for anyone facing surgery today, no limits to the strengths to which this site can take you through this special journey up to and afterwards. This site and thanks to Adam Pick and all his Wisdom in creating it, as well as all of this community of people Who came/come together are those with blessed Hearts. It is to you who blessed me with their time when I needed it most I give my love and thanks today on my 5th anniversary. For their open hearts. It is to you who face your upcoming surgeries that you have faith..hope and strength in knowing you are not alone. That in your futures you will be one day soon celebrating anniversaries of your own with a happy and mended Heart. Be strong..Be Well. God bless. Thank you for sharing this landmark day with me.

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

1719 days ago

Bonnie Stone-Hope, Barbara Wood reacted to this

Early this morning I was headed out the front door with Rylee at my side. As the door opened, a brisk sheet of fog drifted through the screen door as we stepped ...Read more

Early this morning I was headed out the front door with Rylee at my side. As the door opened, a brisk sheet of fog drifted through the screen door as we stepped out into the mist that seemed to part and shift as we went through the front gate towards the park across the street. Even though I had been awake for hours, I knew that on this special day of thanks that I felt heavy and overwhelmed with the emotions that seemed to, much like the thick fog, swirl and shift inside my busy mind with a special lump in my throat as I neared the trees and walked with purpose as Rylee and I enjoyed the noise of the crackle of many leaves upon the ground. Leaves of many colors as if God had used mighty and powerful brush strokes to paint the colors of fall on each and every leaf in honor of this day of thanks. As I walked Rylee seemed to spring with each step (as springer spaniels are known to do) and I thought back to the days when Hunter walked beside me on this path into the park and had to give thanks for all we were able to share and reflect upon the fact that even though he is missed with a heavy heart, I think somewhere he is looking down on Rylee knowing his having been here in our lives helped lessen the pain of a recovering heart that had loved him as much as any heart is capable of doing. The air was also filled with many neighbors smoke filled fireplaces and in between the smell of cooking bacon and a wee bit of burnt toast! Somewhere thru the mist a car door shutting and people calling out in greeting to one another a Happy Thanksgiving as Rylee chimed in doing his spaniel "talking" in greeting. I held on tightly to his leash to keep him from joining the neighbors arriving company and move on around the corner walking him to where his favorite tree is waiting for him. We crunch up to the large trunk and Rylee stands with leaves and stems stuck on both his long ears as he looks up at me with his peaceful, soulful face that I could swear was wearing a smile. It is a solemn time here by this tree. This special tree. The one that over 3 yrs. ago, held me up as my legs had grown weak and my heart rate had gone into overdrive from my first venture out into the park on my first walk after my heart valve surgery. I remember thinking that my new valve wouldn't be able to work with the steady pace as my incision also throbbed at the effort to stay standing and not drop to the ground. Gary and Hunter had been at my side and I remember his arms steadying me as we continued on the second loop of the park moving a little slower with determination and purpose. I remember how thankful I was for the support and love I was given at this delicate time in my life where I learned just how strong I was and just how much the will to heal affected every step I took and how after the awful weeks of dread and fear had gripped my life prior to my surgery, all seemed to drift away day by day, week by week, month by month, year by year. to bring me to this day of Thanks. Thanks that includes our Community here at HeartValveSurgery.com and all of the people who have been a part of a continuous show of love and strength and Spirit and had it not been for this wide and growing community of people I would have certainly not fared as well during my Journey. So, I would like to mention that on the completion of my walk around the park, the mist that we had headed out into together, ended with Kat and Gary waiting patiently for us on the home porch and me coming into the warmth and heading to the computer to let you here in the community know that my solid and full beating heart is with you all whether you are just beginning your Journey or living through your recovery periods. A special Thanks to Adam, Robyn, their son and new addition "Brodie" as well as all of those who have been a part of my life and given so much support to this community. Bless you one and all and may this Thanksgiving be the Happiest ever. Warm thoughts and love, Terrie, Gary, Rylee and Kat

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

1814 days ago

Shannon Gray and reacted to this

It was 3 years ago today that I became the proud(and thankful)recipient of an artificial bovine tricuspid valve to replace a calcified valve at "severe stage". ...Read more

It was 3 years ago today that I became the proud(and thankful)recipient of an artificial bovine tricuspid valve to replace a calcified valve at "severe stage". I remember the journey over the Altamont Pass out of the San Joaquin Valley like it was only yesterday. My thoughts were calm and measured as we climbed the mountain and I drew inspiration that the day knowing that the next time I climbed this same mountain I would have completed the necessary surgery to give opportunity to life and time that this operation afforded me. I had no doubts in my choice in surgeon, and the ongoing support of my cardiologist(Dr. Gurushankar Govindarajan) at Kaiser Permanente. I went into the hospital feeling confidence and hopeful to say the least that my surgery would be successful. Just as importantly...I entered the hospital that morning with the Man I have loved for over forty two years at my side. Holding my hand as we rode the elevator, I remember the feeling of his strength/our strength together as if flowing through our fingertips to one another. I remember the look on his face that day as he turned away and I was wheeled away thru two large doors. I remembered the image I had told myself to calm me, of the last kayaking trip up on a Lake where he was paddling ahead of me and the love I felt as I was wheeled into a room with busy people and bright lights. It was that image of him I had on my mind as I drifted off and did not forget as I awoke hours later. That look, this man and how blessed am I?!!! On this day three years ago, I had no idea where I would be. How well I would feel. I had no idea that the high I felt from surviving the surgery would last this long. A high I hope to never lose. So yes, on this day, I would like to pass along to all of you who are just starting out in your information gathering, support seeking, surgeon searching some things to think about. To those heading in for surgery soon and to those just heading home to recuperate and heal. Every moment leading up to, during and after this surgery that has entered your world, please take heart in knowing that it will show you your strength...reinforce your beliefs...heighten your abilities to push yourself farther than you ever thought you would/could go. You will savor from week to week your own ability to move forward. To understand with a new awareness what is important and those things that should and can be let go of and let to the past. I hope you will find the joy and validation in life as I have. I hope you wake each morning as you go to sleep each night with the knowledge of something very big, very powerful watching over you and all of us that leads you on this Journey. A special note to Adam Pick and his family today. Adam, I am sorry for your loss of your Father and want to thank you from the bottom/top and middle of my mended heart for all you did for me and the HVS community to help us along our way. I am thinking of you as I celebrate this third year anniversary especially and know that this community you established here will continue to be inspired by all of the love you and your father had for one another. Thank you with all my heart all here in our heart community as well for all you do to help each other as well as those of you I have been touched by with support and love throughout these past 3 years. Love, Terrie

Richard King Hi Terrie, thanks you very much for this! For those of us at the beginning of our journey encourageme ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsen Richard- She probably never left your side!!! Good luck with your "mending".

Bob Gillespie Thank you Terrie, less than 40 hours from now to my surgery, your words are God Breathed to me. Thank ... Read more

Gerald Poulton Hey Bob, he's got you and me brother in his hands 😀

Terrie Syvertsen You are most welcome Bob Gillespie! The hours before our surgeries can make for a tough "wait". When ... Read more

Lilly Black Congratulations Terrie! Wow 3 yrs went so fast. Thank you for your warm and inspirational message. I ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

1861 days ago

Phyllis Petersen, Barbara Wood, Cathy Zuber and reacted to this

Gary, Rylee, Kat and I started out the morning early as the yard was heavy in shadows, the birds just beginning to forage the feeder for seed. Mockingbirds ...Read more

Gary, Rylee, Kat and I started out the morning early as the yard was heavy in shadows, the birds just beginning to forage the feeder for seed. Mockingbirds on the fence teasing Rylee and of course catching Kat's attention as she lays curled across my lap while I sit having coffee with my feet up on the other garden chair facing out into the garden....my Treasure! This year I put up a little greenhouse made of metal pcs. and plastic so that I might start seeds for various flowers to add to the garden shrubs and roses. It has been very hot so far this summer with the little seedlings fighting the 95 and 100 degree temperatures for life. Most mornings I begin the day with Rylee and Kat following the garden hose and I as I weave my way in and out of the backyard watering with Rylee playfully challenging Kat for who can stay the closest to the spray which sets a series of motions from the birds lined along the tree roses and fence. It happens today as the sun began to rise that we have dragonfly guests joining in on the life just waking up to the warmth of the suns rays beginning to fill the area. We are sipping coffee, Gary and I in between caring for the plants and reminiscing how far things have come since we moved here......I am thinking of all of the neighbors in our new town which is in an agricultural area of the San Joaquin Valley, California and what a blessing it is to live in such a place and be part of such a Family of people who form this growing and unique country we call America. We are thankful for all of the People who came to the Land we call home. Land that so many People gave their lives to protect and defend so that we might all thrive and prosper. We are blessed to have the choices we have and the rights to liberty and justice for all. May we all continue to grow as a People. May all the challenges to those in our community as well who have formed here to feed each other hope, faith, information and a voice to ease fears of an uncertain future feel that they, we, are not alone. Once more I am reminded of my favorite saying: "There is a destiny that makes us Brothers. None goes his/her way alone. All that we send into the lives of others. Comes back into our own" -Edward Markam Here's to all American's on this great day of Independence. Here's to all Nations who stand with us, that we remember those who served us well, continue to serve that we are able to sip these cups of coffee in such a place of Peace and tranquility. Love to you all Terrie, Gary, Rylee and Kat p.s. check out today's special 4th of July photo!

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

1863 days ago

Shannon Gray and reacted to this

Good morning Heart Brothers and Sisters. It has been awhile since I posted in my journal. I apologize for not keeping up but as one who has had surgery, recovered ...Read more

Good morning Heart Brothers and Sisters. It has been awhile since I posted in my journal. I apologize for not keeping up but as one who has had surgery, recovered and continued finding ways to get into a better health place....me, Rylee and Kat have been continuing to find ways to live healthy, happily and fully as much as is possible!!! Oh yes, Gary too and the everyday surprises that awaits each of us as we find our way sometimes creates a gap when we don't spend time doing things that we find milling about in our brains which are important to us(like this Community) and time keeps on ticking. I was reminded as I busily loaded our truck for a "dump" run early this morning when I lifted some wire screen over the edge of the truck bed and a piece caught the edge of my t-shirt and pulled tight across a well healed incision. Like many of us who have had surgery and spent those many days recovering and getting back to the things we love doing, I sometimes forget that there are moments where the keloid parts of my incision even after years can let us know that they are still with us.... I look into the yard while I tie off the load and see Kat following Rylie(our springer spaniel) along the fence line rubbing his fur along the black cyclone fence that gives his snow white fur, black spots, rust colored freckles and large eyes this continuous look of mischief as Kat follows so closely behind him that her all black fur gets lost as she becomes this little shadow. She doesn't miss a beat. Constantly his little fur ball companion and his friend, they keep their eyes on me as I work. Still amazed at how Hunter, Rylie and Kat helped get me through the "adventure" of heart surgery, it is hard not to think back so many months, now years of how things were and feel the joy, the hope of things that lie ahead for me and all of those who have taken this road before with me and you and who are there for those just at the beginning or middle of the journey. An older neighbor of mine and her friend, passing by along the fence bring Rylee to his feet and he and Kat leave the shade of our Oklahoma redbud Tree(planted in celebration of another year last year in my recovery since heart surgery to replace my Heart Valve.) Harriet and Christine have taken to riding a power scooter and a 3 wheel bike around the park as they can no longer walk. We met when first I ventured out after my surgery and were the first to cheer me on at my accomplishments. Important...having those people at this time in our life where we are filled with uncertainties of the surgery, recovery time and need that little extra from people who understand fully what it is to have such a surgical/life experience. I am ashamed to admit that I haven't been very helpful to this community of late but I also know how many people there are who belong and continued in my absence from writing in this special Journal place to keep up the encouragement, information sharing, hope and shared dreams. I also want to thank as I am so thankful for all of you who helped me along my way to lift my spirit when it needed lifting and to move forward with healthy energy and promote truth, faith and healing at what has to be one of the largest lessons I have learned in life to date. That I, YOU, WE are Survivors! Love to you all this day and prayers for all who are part of the Journey. Also have a Happy and Safe 4th of July. Terrie, Gary, Rylee and Kat

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

2028 days ago

Shannon Gray, Cathleen DeWitt and reacted to this

Good Day Heart Community. I took the time to post in my Journal yesterday and then accidentally(?) deleted it only to find I was disappointed that I had done ...Read more

Good Day Heart Community. I took the time to post in my Journal yesterday and then accidentally(?) deleted it only to find I was disappointed that I had done so. It began with me sharing that I had been sitting at my art table with a cup of coffee, staring out into the fog at the park across the street from our home. Rylee was sitting on his rug on the floor by my feet asleep. The park was hidden by the dense fog with only the dark outline of the trees showing as if creatures from a movie with their branches reaching out like arms and the tangled roots appearing to be legs moving forward towards the house. (Yes, I live that close!) The grain and lines of the trunk showing thru the mist as it began to break up in the light wind that began gave my imagination the ability to then imagine wrinkled faces and tired eyes as they continued to form their army and move forward ever so slightly.........Sorry, the images in my tired brain at that point made me smile and I spent some time just watching as the fog turned into a swirling mist that separated and finally gave way to the reality of lawn, trees, houses in the background and birds moving in the winds to gather on the branches all around the park. A happy sight. Happy, relaxed morning as I wrote how I was able to stretch across the drawing table to return to a sketch I was transferring onto a linoleum block that I am getting ready to carve one day soon. I also described how not long ago, I was still unable to reach out in such a way to return to the sketching and carving I love so well. I remembered a time as I was healing from my Heart Valve Surgery when I was black and blue, stapled together with 13 staples while my wired up sternum seemed to shriek at me when trying to take such positions. As I sat sipping my coffee Kat(my Cat) slinked into the kitchen to lye beside Rylee on his rug and I thought back to a time when it was Hunter and Kat in this same place and I was in the chair staring out into the park on a day just like yesterday wishing I could get back to work on one of many drawings I had set aside as I healed.. Where my surgery went well and I was not given to extreme pain afterwards and able to handle what I did feel with Tylenol and help from my husband Gary when needed and the Joy of the companionship of Hunter and Kat as well as the on and off connection with this Blessed Community of Heart Brothers and Sisters who maintained the communication as I began and continued to heal. So many kind souls who had, or were experiencing the same thing I was and all of the great thoughts and insight from those people "Who Got It". A Heartfelt continuation of a Mighty round of THANKS TO YOU ALL! When I was finished and had posted I thought about how my post wasn't appropriate and should have been shorter. Didn't think I made the point I set out to make. So I deleted it. Later in the day a friend of mine sent me an email wondering where my post had gone to? Wondered why I had deleted it when She hadn't had a chance to reply to it. It tugged at my heart and I will tell you why. "She Got IT!" She understood that with all these words I used and continued to use today to write to all of you that I was trying to let you share in several facts. One, how thankful it is to have a place to go online and write to other people faced with all of the questions, ability to give out so many answers and shared experiences that I am feeling. (Thank you Adam Pick and your Family too). Also, Something that people I went in with at the same time as well as those of you I have never heard of or me don't know is that not long ago I had a TIA that left me unable to write or speak for a short period of time(thank God) but that did affect my thought processes enough to make me Leary of writing again. I also had a longer time for my sternum to heal due to some keloid issues that have finally healed well enough to move on and engage in the art work I put aside for so many months. My point of this post today is to lend my story in that those just out of surgery or those going in can see or read that whatever the outcome of each surgery, each individual will come away dealing with unique issues to face. Point being that through the love and faith of those around us and with us having the time and patience to deal with things one thing at a time...Life will go on. You can and will move forward. Any pain is hopefully temporary. Scars will heal(and maybe take their own sweet time doing so) and any other things that happen along the way you need to remember this community and Reach Out as will maybe it will lead you too Back to Your Own Drawing Board.... My best to all here at our Community and a special thanks to my Heart Sister Karen P. for steering back on course! Love You!

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

2045 days ago

Cathleen DeWitt, Phyllis Petersen, Maggi Turner and reacted to this

Happy New Year to all- Haven't been on site in awhile like many of us do who continue on with life in ways not possible while we were researching our "Hearts", ...Read more

Happy New Year to all- Haven't been on site in awhile like many of us do who continue on with life in ways not possible while we were researching our "Hearts", waiting for surgery and then experiencing "It" then going on through the recovery and healing both body and soul of it all. I met and am thankful to and for all of those here in the community who shared the path and recovery of my heart valve replacement back in August of "2014". I, like many people who enjoyed and depended on the many Heart Brothers and Sisters to find their way thru the maze of questions and experiences leading up to and including my successful surgery are deeply appreciative of all the people that this site afforded me so that it is possible to look another New Year in the Heart and say "I am ready" and focused on enjoying each and every day. I welcome the time that I will never take for granted as this lovely little heart of mine continues to raise it's little valves and beat furiously at the enormous gift in being mended, the time I have been given. The time I hope that each and every one of you awaiting your surgery is looking forward to. That each and every one of this community continues to share one beat at a time. One day at a time. I hope in my Heart to yours that your surgeries have gone well in the time I have been absent from this site and that those of you who have healed know how much I think of you as well as those of you going through the waiting time understand that it is worth the wait. Those of you recovering, please have patience with yourselves and give yourselves the love and time it takes to get through the process of healing. It does get better, God willing..... To those tonight on the edge of the wait.... be confident that all will go smoothly and please believe that the concern and fear in what leads up to these miracle surgeries is going to be in the "past" soon. BE strong and believe. Hold fast to the people that took on the job for life of healing us and their teams of people just as dedicated to our well being, are going to do their best to mend your hearts and send you back into your lives to mend. Hopefully you will have people in your lives to catch you where you land and who will continue in your care to surround you and your newly mended heart with sweet music, good food, company on your first walks and continued show of love and support throughout it all. To our community I wish that you, like me feel the strength of so many beautiful beating hearts are out here in the night, readying the mornings light and hopeful of this a New Year. Love and Peace to you all. Terrie, Gary, Rylee and Kat

Karen Pineda Hey Heart Sister. A little late in commenting but Happy Thanksgiving to you too. I came here to lea ... Read more

Virginia (Ginger) French Terrie,
My precious sister. Life is pure chaos here, but when I saw your name I just had to let you ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

2096 days ago

reacted to this

I awoke this morning and Rylee was racing to the door ahead of me. (For those of you who don't know me...Rylee is my springer spaniel). It was 2:20 a.m. and ...Read more

I awoke this morning and Rylee was racing to the door ahead of me. (For those of you who don't know me...Rylee is my springer spaniel). It was 2:20 a.m. and my normal waking time as my husband got into the shower to begin getting ready for his commute over the "pass" and a time when I usually end up taking Rylee out into the front yard which faces our small community park across the street. I grabbed the door and our American Flag which I had set aside the front door so that I might place it out in front in honor of the day we celebrate as Veteran's Day today. I stepped down into the yard and heard "Kat"(our adopted neighborhood cat) meowing her way to find Rylee in the front and in her "blackness of color" had to smile as she bounded up to Rylee and began nuzzling up to his face and passing back and forth so quickly that he seemed to lose his balance trying to avoid her as she continued to hunt for his "affection". The two of them....a pair...my closest best friends and to whom I owe my ease in recovery from my surgery a time ago. I walked towards them in the darkness with the fog around the three of us and a new awareness that in the dark...we were not alone. I placed the flagpole into the metal of our black fence but left the plastic on the flag itself to be removed at first light of day when the wetness of the fog would have left the area. Not far away I could hear the rustling of leaves at the park which most had fallen this past week. Footsteps heading our way as I moved to the corner of our yard under the streetlamp which gave light to a six foot circle. Rylee began to growl and Kat sat nearby alert and looking out towards the shadow of a person who was wrapped in a blanket and headed into the lamp light. It was one of the home less people who pick this park to spend the night and had decided to move out of the area before the neighbors called him in. He said nothing to me but continued up the street and I watched him fade out of sight while Rylee continued to patrol the fence line with Kat following directly behind. There we stood together in the darkness and we turned towards the house towards the welcoming warmth and lights from the kitchen. I knew Gary would be there and making some coffee. Knew also that Rylee would run for his doggie bed and be joined by Kat who now will come inside for the warmth and breakfast with Rylee where once she refused to come indoors. The flag pole in view I thought of all of those who have served to keep our freedom in this Country for so many years and reflected on the intensity of the days since our election. I myself am having a difficult time with the way this entire election has played out and with the heaviness of the choices that were made to elect this new President. I will admit that my heart is heavy at the outcome and what has happened since. Before I made it back inside today from the darkness and the heavy Mist that surrounded me and while still eyeing the flagpole I turned and went back down the steps and walked over to the flag and released it from the plastic cover. I rolled it out and watched as it began to lift ever so slightly in the small breeze. Out I rolled it and the colors red white and blue came alive under the lamp light and my heart was full and my pride in being an American...one of so many was immense. The pain I have felt for America In these past hours was lifted by this sight and by the thought of all who have given there all for a Nation of people because they volunteered everything to Protect and Serve us all in our way of life. They, those that lost their lives. They who still serve and those who live with their Service of Country and all that this entails who made the choice to serve this Country and never did it for a people of one color...one religion...one political party need to be in our thoughts and hearts today to be honored. Today and every day it is my prayer that in time we take all of the strength and goodness within us all....each of us. find the Hope, hold strong to our Faith and remember today those Veterans who help or have helped in the past to make this way of life possible and now work together to make a better future for our Children, families, selves. Out of the Mist will come a New Day and hopefully with it all of our energy spent putting our best "selves" forward. I believe in you. I believe in Us. I pray for all those going into surgery, headed for surgery or readying themselves for a trip home and a smooth recovery. Most of all today I pray and applaud our many Veteran's. HAPPY VETERANS DAY and love goes out to my heart brother Steven Hustad of our community and one fine Veteran!

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

2104 days ago

Marie Leighton, Tina Maroon and reacted to this

Hello Heart Brothers and Sisters. Haven't been on site for awhile but this is important to mention today since I was thinking about the future and the fact ...Read more

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

2179 days ago

David C, Ed Miskovic, Darlene Smith and reacted to this

Hello to all the Heart Brothers and Sisters in our Community. I woke up this morning with "Kat" coming in with Rylee from the back yard which was already ...Read more

Hello to all the Heart Brothers and Sisters in our Community. I woke up this morning with "Kat" coming in with Rylee from the back yard which was already sunny and bright. As she hopped up onto the arm of the recliner she did as she usually did....hopped over onto my chest, curled into a little ball and looked up at me. Rylee stood at the base of the chair looking up also and as they have done for the last year and more, made my heart feel full and my spirit even fuller with the obvious love received. These two little friends of mine have been two of the best parts of this last year of my continued recovery and a reminder that the power of love and companionship as we heal is a mighty addition to our lives. I sat looking out into the garden at the roses and thought back to the hours and days when I first returned home two years ago today with a new tissue valve, bottle of Tylenol, Hunter at the door and ready to help me begin the road to recovery with Gary and Kat. And after Hunter's passing, the addition of Rylee in our home helped to continue the joy that each new day brought realizing day after day that the long wait was over. That the surgery was a thing of my past and it was time to move and look forward. Most important too was that from the wait, through the surgery and afterwards, I had all of my Heart Brothers and Sisters here at this wonderful Community to touch base with. People who were waiting with me, checking up with me during recovery and sharing experiences both positive and negative with the truth of it all most evident in the communications and today on my 2 year Anniversary I would like to take the time to Thank you all for all you became in my life, for lifting me up when it was needed and for being there to learn from as the many hours and days led me to where I am today. I think of many of you often and have gotten close to many who went through this life experiences with me enough to email back and forth so as to feel that connection of this most important event in our lives. I also wanted to mention that due to a few health issues not relating to my heart or my surgery I have not been online to the community for some time but wanted to touch base. Things have gotten better and Gary, Rylee and Kat and I are doing well. I especially want to leave word with those of you either waiting or just heading in for surgery and tell you that I hope and pray for you to be strong and believe that all will go as planned. Have faith in your Team of Doctor's, Nurses and those who will attend to your needs with only your "Wellness" in their Hearts---and understand that the fear before your surgery is much the worst of it and that you can deal with what lies ahead. As I have since my "time" I will continue to send you best wishes, prayers and add myself to those in our Community wishing you on to find the days ahead with a Lovingly Mended Heart and many years of Life before you. I appreciate that Adam has given us the ability to communicate and share such an important time in our lives. Bless you all and know I continue to carry you in my HEART! Terrie, Gary, Rylee and Kat (with Hunter's spirit hovering not far away!)

Emily Rowley Happy Valve-Versary ☺ You are an amazingly strong person with a very beautiful heart. I am glad ou ... Read more

Robert Osmachenko Hey you! You are the best heart sister! Prayers for a continued recovery and good to hear from you! ... Read more

Lilly Black Terrie, congratulations on your 2nd anniversary! Great news to hear you are doing well. Keep in touch ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsen Hello Emily, Robert O and Lily! Thanks for the congrats and know as I sit here typing away I have vis ... Read more

Lilly Black I am doing really well, Terry. I just wish I was fully retired! oh well what would I do with all that ... Read more

Karen Pineda Terrie, since it's been 2 days since you posted this question and you haven't received any feedback, ... Read more

Karen Pineda Terrie, since it's been 2 days since you posted this question and you haven't received any feedback, I took the liberty of asking a couple of people I know about their experience with Plavix since I personally don't have any experience myself but thought I might at least get you some feedback because this is a really important question you have.

One person I know who is a friend's husband has a history of A-Fib, which resulted in several TIAs. It took a while for him to know that the TIAs were the result of the A-Fib but eventually it all came to light. He started off with Plavix but it didn't help too well so he was eventually put on Coumadin. And since being on Coumadin, he hasn't had any further TIAs, nor has he progressed to having a full blown stroke. He has since been put on a different blood thinner that doesn't require the ongoing blood work to check levels and so far so good, no more TIAs. But for him the Plavix didn't work as well as the Coumadin did. But according to him, the doctor said that Plavix does work for many people but just not for everyone for whatever reason. But the doctors seem to always want to start with Plavix.

Another friend takes Plavix after she had a triple by-pass after having a 95% blockage of plaque. She said she hasn't experience any problems with it, except she needs to take Zantac for her stomach because it has caused some gastritis. But she was on Plavix since 2007 and so far she hasn't had any further heart problems and with the exception of adding Zantac to her medication cocktail, she is OK. The Zantac must be helping because although she gets indigestion at times, she has not had any ulcers. Oh and I might add that she has Diabetes in addition to the other issues and there hasn't been any conflicts with treating the Diabetes while taking Plavix.

And just for a reference point, both of these individuals are in their late 60's. I believe 67-ish.

So I apologize for not having any personal experience to share but I hope that this information gives you something to go on at least. Maybe someone else in this vast community has some personal experience with Plavix that they can share. Take good care of yourself. ~ Karen

Terrie Syvertsen Karen and rest of the community- First off, thank you Karen for taking the time to reply and make an ... Read more

Karen Pineda You're very welcome Terrie. You have been an ongoing supporter since 2014 and have given many hours ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

2325 days ago

Tracy Simmons, Barbara Laurie, Karen Pineda and reacted to this

The sun rose and flooded the yard in back with warmth and light. On this morning Rylee was out walking with Kat at his side like a small caravan....we walked ...Read more

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

2368 days ago

John Noriega, Emily Rowley, Adam Pick and reacted to this

In the Spirit of Valentine's Day I just posted two photos of our "Puppy" Rylee and cat "Kat". Why you might ask yourself, their inclusion in my journal tonight. ...Read more

In the Spirit of Valentine's Day I just posted two photos of our "Puppy" Rylee and cat "Kat". Why you might ask yourself, their inclusion in my journal tonight. I would only say to those who have not followed my journal postings since I joined back in March of 2014. Let me say that I brought "Hunter" our Springer Spaniel and Kat(an abandoned cat in our new neighborhood we named "Kat" into my Journal postings as I gathered my information about my Aortic Valve condition, grew to terms with it all and had my surgery in August of 2014. Hunter and Kat became central figures in both the pre-op and post-op recovery along with stories that enabled me to focus on healthy thoughts and move forward with all that Heart Valve Surgery entails. Hunter passed away at the age of 16 yrs. and Rylee became a member of our home just recently. It is especially important to know that my intent was to write stories while I engaged with many other Heart Brothers and Sisters to maybe lay focus on writings that might give others who were waiting like me for their own surgeries or in their recovery stages something maybe entertaining, bring a few laughs or smiles or even give a chance to shake their heads in wonder along the way while possibly lessening the anxiety(or not) maybe giving a small sense of hope and reinforcement that Life goes on and to keep the Faith. Anyway, that has always been my intent since becoming a member of our community here at HVS. So tonight I added a couple of photos hoping to share the joy and love I feel in my Heart for my "pet" friends as well as in honor of Hunter send along a wish of Love this Valentines Day to you all and hope and pray that whatever place you are in life that your heart is full...that you are confident in what is to come and/or are mending and healing your beautiful hearts as this special day of Hearts unfolds before you......I will also add how thankful I have been the entire time since joining this community to have been blessed with so many wonderful people willing to have reached out and touched my heart in a million different ways that made it possible to enter into my surgery with all the love and support I had hoped to have as well as all of the comfort and strength shared along the time spent healing and recovering such an enormous and life changing event. I honor you all this Valentines Day, especially. For it is in honoring all Hearts that we share our own hope, faith and dreams. Happy Valentines Day then to you and those you love. Love, your Heart Sister Terrie, Gary, Rylee and Kat.....P.S. All my love to my husband of 38yrs. Gary!

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

2412 days ago

Emily Rowley, Liz Burroughs, Tina Maroon and reacted to this

It is 8:00 p.m. here in Manteca, California....USA! My Heart is full with all of the feelings that come with settling down to our computer and thinking of ...Read more

It is 8:00 p.m. here in Manteca, California....USA! My Heart is full with all of the feelings that come with settling down to our computer and thinking of all of the People here at Heart Valve Surgery.com who have made this last year a memorable one for my Heart and I! I never knew that one could feel love for so many people all over the world who were once complete strangers with their own private journeys to take with their own precious and unique heart issues. One by one from March 27th, 2014 you entered into my world making life less complicated, less frightening, less alone as day by day, month by month the awareness of my own Heart issues came into view, were realized and dealt with on August 20th. 2014. I began by dubbing all of you my Heart Brothers and Heart Sisters from day one and from that time I was amazed at how many of you were out there needing information, love, prayers and support for themselves(as did I) and how many would soon stream into the Community as the settings changed along with the format with Adam's hard work with changing this community into a place that serves the needs of so many wonderful people. Together we are Strong. Together we are not Alone. Together along with all of the characters in our lives that became our caregivers, better friends healthier overall in all meaningful relationships as one by one we reached out and are still reaching out to one another to make the most of this life experience of our Heart Valve Journeys. I thank God every day and most nights for each and every one of you that has touched my heart along the way and along with Gary, Rylee, Kat and I wish all those preparing, recovering and healing from their surgeries and those you love the best, most meaningful, colorful healthy and loving year in this, our New Year 2016. Thank you Adam and your Family for all of the time and sacrifices that have gong into your commitment to all of us here at HVS. Love and Peace to all wherever you may abide in this Blessed Universe.

Emily Rowley Well said Terrie. We are here for each other. Happy you have come into our lives Heart Sister 😊 Ma ... Read more

Liz Burroughs Happy New Year, Terrie!! I am also very grateful for this community & all the wonderful people who ha ... Read more

Tina Maroon Happy New Year to you too.

Elaine Foster So nice to hear from you Terrie. Happy New Year to your too! May 2016 be your best year yet! God B ... Read more

Emily Rowley Hey Terrie, did you by any chance send me flowers? I received some beautiful flowers+bear+card with t ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsen Emily- Flowers were sent from the Fairy Forest here in California who
knew you were due for a "smile" ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsenposted a journal

2418 days ago

Merry Christmas/Season's Greeting's to all of my Heart Brothers and Heart Sisters, your Families and those you love! Woke up early to run Rylee out into the ...Read more

Merry Christmas/Season's Greeting's to all of my Heart Brothers and Heart Sisters, your Families and those you love! Woke up early to run Rylee out into the front yard to take a Christmas photo for you to see our "Puppy" and Kat for a little Christmas smile? They are my newest photos if you care to see them. One is of Rylee crunching on his favorite toys lately, all the leaves in the front yard from the couple of storms we had which brought all the leaves from the park across the street into our yard. The second new photo is of Rylee and Kat(who have made friends and are constantly on the move getting into anything and everything together. Their play can end with the BIG "chase" around the yard and over the fence when Kat has had enough of Rylee's shenanigans and chooses another neighbors yard over the never ending energy that new puppies are known to possess! The third new photo of Rylee out in front licking the frozen face of our Burmese Mountain dog yard ornament reminded me of the scene in "A Christmas story" where Ralphie sticks his tongue on a frozen pole and it remains frozen there. So seemed the scene this morning as we took him out to pee and it was only 32 degrees out. Nice Christmas weather. Great that there is SNOW up North which will be of help since our summer drought conditions and I am sure many families are having a wonderful White Christmas this morning. Last night, Gary and I ran around in the cold night with a brisk wind blowing, delivering cookies I took all afternoon baking in paper plates bright red with snowflakes to all of our neighbors who have been so good to us since we moved here three years ago in January. I have been blessed with a few great families who have shared the pre-surgery jitters, the surgery and the recovery time with me and were nothing but positive in letting me know they were there if I needed them(which for the most part I didn't!) but it was nice to know they were around! So I baked and baked and piled the cookies high upon the plates covered in plastic and juggled the plates out to the truck and made our way around our little park delivering into the night. Next year I demand a sleigh.......one that a team of my neighborhood dogs led by Rylee will pull! He is growing like a weed so this might be doable! Rylee received numerous dog treats and dog toys from many of the same neighbors who we found took great delight in finding and choosing every toy in town that could squeak, rattle or be tug able for hours on end(focus on the squeakables.......All in all both Kat and Rylee like small children were the recipients of many both edible and playable gifts this Christmas season. (A delight for Gary who has been tripping and squeaking his way around the front room all morning with a hot cup of coffee in hand! The biggest problem for Kat is that Rylee wants to have his catnip toys given early this morning by the neighbors daughter and to which she has had a strangle hold on(the toy not the daughter). I hope all of you out in the community are somewhere warm and safe and surrounded by good and loving people. I hope all surgeries have gone well this week and your hospital stays are short so that you can return home to enjoy the Holiday. If you are home recuperating I wish that your recoveries run smoothly and that the family pets do not take to lap jumping or trying to snuggle too intensely! I hope if you are readying yourselves for surgery that your heart is filled with a fearlessness and you are ready to have your beautiful and unique hearts mended and then sent home to heal and start out this, a New and healthier Year. Speaking as one who is entering her year and 4 month time from surgery I would wish you all the best of healing times to ready you for the awe and wonder that awaits you in Life with the New Year we face together. My thanks to all who have entered my life with my surgery and become friends and hold a place deep in my heart. To all I wish Peace and Love. Merry Christmas and a very Happy and Healthy New Year.

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