Today marks one year out, and I'm pleased to say everything is going well. Off all medications, completed cardiac rehab, my scar is fading, and my cardiologist says that compared to what it was doing before surgery, my heart sounds boring and ordinary when she listens to it. But that's OK. I can live with boring and ordinary - literally.
My best wishes to all who are on this crazy journey, and my thanks to Adam and everyone in this community for their support.
Jean Raber I'm up for repair at some point also, Tom. Glad to know you are feeling well. Looks like you were cleared to return to work in about six weeks, yes? A couple ... Read more
Jean Raber I'm up for repair at some point also, Tom. Glad to know you are feeling well. Looks like you were cleared to return to work in about six weeks, yes? A couple of months seems to be about right for those on here with MV repair.
If it's not too nosy to ask, how old are you? People on here who've had the repair seem to be doing very well, but they look from their pictures to be 20 years younger than me at least (I'm 61). Am thinking that I might be off work a bit longer.
Steven A Husted glad to hear you are doing well i am doing well also and i am one year out keep up the good work and yes my thanks to adam also what a blessing he has been to us all thank you adam steve (popeye)
Tammy Pilcher Congratulations Tom on your 1st Anniversary! Mine is coming up next month and I, too, can live with boring and ordinary! :-) God bless you, heart brother!
Enrique K Hi Tom, great news! Did you have AVR and what type of valve did you get? Stay strong and God Bless you for many years to come
Mary K Congratulations, Tom. Yes, my GP says tat you don't want to be interesting in the doctor's office. Glad to hear that your heart is boring and ordinary.
Cheryl Batzing Congrats Tom! So glad to hear how well you are doing!
Jim Kelly-Evans Congratulations on your one year anniversary!
Tom Elliott Thanks everyone, and apologies for not responding sooner.
Not nosy at all, Jean. I was 66 when I had the surgery, and in reasonably good shape going in. And ... Read more
Tom Elliott Thanks everyone, and apologies for not responding sooner.
Not nosy at all, Jean. I was 66 when I had the surgery, and in reasonably good shape going in. And my job is pure desk work, so the physical requirements are modest. So six weeks seemed about right.
Enrique, I was fortunate that they were able to repair rather than replace, so except for a few little goretex thingies it's all me in there.
Street legal
Journal posted on October 22, 2014
I had my six weeks post- op conference with Dr Couper, my surgeon, yesterday, and everything looks fine to him. He gave me the OK to drive (three cheers!) and to go back to work (one, one and a half cheers, tops). Ten pounds lifting limit for another six weeks.
I see my cardiologist next week, and maybe start to eliminate the metoprolol. Haven't heard back from the cardiac rehab people, but I hope to start that soon.
Eleanor R Quite an outfit there. I notice you don't have so much of a "goose egg" at the top of your incision as I did. Gone now, but was strange for a while. You ... Read more
Eleanor R Quite an outfit there. I notice you don't have so much of a "goose egg" at the top of your incision as I did. Gone now, but was strange for a while. You look terrific and I love that you had the humor and mental state to think like this, well done. Eleanor
So far, so good
Journal posted on October 3, 2014
I almost hate to say this out loud, lest I jinx things, but my recovery seems to be progressing very smoothly. Surgery was 4 weeks ago next Monday, and I'm actually feeling pretty good. I'm able to walk a little further each day - today I made it as far as the nearest center of civilization (library branch, pizza place). It's only a little more than a quarter of a mile from home, but it's all downhill going there, and all uphill coming back. Broke no speed records, to be sure. My scar is healing nicely, though it would probably still frighten small children. Tylenol is doing an excellent job with the pain.
In short, much as I might like to, I really can't complain. I wish similarly smooth sailing to everybody else who is on this crazy trip.
Glad at 4 weeks you are doing so well. That's great. I know what u mean about not wanting to jinx yourself when u say all is good.... Thanks for posting. I have one day left and heading home tomorrow.
Eleanor R It sounds like you are really on track, doing great for week four. I probably was not walking that far, but should have been, now I am paying for it in cardiac ... Read more
Eleanor R It sounds like you are really on track, doing great for week four. I probably was not walking that far, but should have been, now I am paying for it in cardiac rehab at week 12 and struggling a bit, not my heart but my knees! It is actually very good and I am enjoying it. Keep healing nicely. eleanor
Adam Pick Tom, Awesome update! Thanks for sharing. I simply love hearing when patients can't complain. :)
Joan Napier Tom, Love hearing your positive news! Wishes for continued success with your recovery.
The amazing recliner
Journal posted on September 18, 2014
Add me to the Yes column if the question is" Do you find a reclining chair helpful?" I am writing this from its comfy 4AM embrace, when my mind is just too active to let me keep on sleeping.
I was a skeptic for a long time, and indeed we could probably have made our existing furniture work, with big pillows. But the recliner we wound up getting at the last minute is SO much better! I can count on a few hours of comfortable reading, dozing etc without constantly readjusting. And it's very easy to get out of.
Way more expensive than pillows, of course, but if we hadn't put off serious shopping until the Saturday before my Monday surgery, we might have been able to find something comparable for less.
Holly Geary Love my recliner, rented it for the 1st month post op!
Janet Underwood After my husband broke his arm in several places and shattered the ball of the joint where it attaches to his shoulder, he slept in a recliner for until it ... Read more
Janet Underwood After my husband broke his arm in several places and shattered the ball of the joint where it attaches to his shoulder, he slept in a recliner for until it healed. I don't have that recliner any longer, but I'm getting some new furniture and last night, it struck me that a recliner could really solve more than one post-op problem for me. Thanks for reinforcing that this is a good idea.
Adam Pick Tom, I didn't know about the benefits of a recliner for cardiac patients when I went started my recovery. I'm thrilled to hear that you are super comfy as your recovery begins.
Eleanor R Hi, Tom, I am glad to hear you have found a very comfortable spot. I rented an electric lift recliner, never thinking I would be able to sleep in it at night ... Read more
Eleanor R Hi, Tom, I am glad to hear you have found a very comfortable spot. I rented an electric lift recliner, never thinking I would be able to sleep in it at night since over a long career of foreign travel I was never able to sleep on reclined airline seats, even in upgrades to first class and Air France's wonderful 180 degree "beds" complete with duvet and down pillows (and pajamas!). To my surprise, I was able to recline and sleep. So much so that I extended the rental and even thought of buying the chair, but then I thought I had better get used to sleeping in a bed again, or else when I stay with friends or travel I would have to travel like Granny on the Beverly Hillbillies (remember them?) with the recliner on top of the car instead of Gran's rocker. So sadly I returned it, but have the firm intention of buying a really nice one just like it a little later on and putting it in the family room instead of my bedroom (so I am not tempted to stray, or rather, to recline!). What I love about your posting also is that it shows that you take care of yourself and solve problems. Rather than fretting and rolling over and over in bed, you get up and try something different, and hit upon a solution. Keep it up, and I wish you the very best recovery, and for all of us. Eleanor
John Noriega My wife purchased me a great recliner a few years ago when I had my left rotator cuff repaired. It was the only place I could get comfortable and get some sleep. ... Read more
John Noriega My wife purchased me a great recliner a few years ago when I had my left rotator cuff repaired. It was the only place I could get comfortable and get some sleep. When I had my right rotator cuff done, it once again was the best place to rest and sleep. So, I look forward to its comfort once again after my valve surgery.
Angelo Varrone My recliner was a big help in my rehab one year ago. Problem is, I'm so attached to it now I don't want to let go. Wife not happy.... :)
Hi Tom, Thank you for the note. Yes, I asked about the recliners and all have said it has been helpful...so I got two - one for the 1st floor and one for the ... Read more
Hi Tom, Thank you for the note. Yes, I asked about the recliners and all have said it has been helpful...so I got two - one for the 1st floor and one for the 2nd floor. I got a good deal and hope they help me as much as they have been helping everyone else. Yes, I feel vulnerable...good choice of words....and you did not look funny with two gowns on...imagine all the extra work of having to close the gown behind you while walking, who needs that. I will have my mother bring a robe as I make my laps around the nurses station...hopefully with a slight smile on my face. :) Keep updating us. the updates are so helpful and powerful. I wish you a speedy and easy recovery. Take care and thanks for taking the time to write.
Made it!
Journal posted on September 13, 2014
My mitral and tricuspid valves were successfully repaired by Dr Couper and his team on Monday. A liitle trickier than some, because they had to replace a couple of chordae that were ambiguous on the echocardiogram - another reason to go to a high volume center.
I'll post more when I have real keyboard, but for now my gratitude for being alive and for having a group like this,and to my amazing wife, and my friends and family.
Eleanor R Glad a repair was possible Tom, and that you were in the right place with the right folks for you. Now the medical team will hand the reins over to you to ... Read more
Eleanor R Glad a repair was possible Tom, and that you were in the right place with the right folks for you. Now the medical team will hand the reins over to you to lead the recovery process. I'm sure you will do as well as they did. Best wishes to you and your family. Eleanor
Michael Meyer Tom:
Glad they were able to repair the valve and chordae. It's great to have have excellent facilities and surgeons. Look forward to hearing how your recovery goes.
Lillian Mark That is great news that the repairs were completed. Sounds like you had a qualified team.💗
Joaquim Cimoes Dear Tom, good news. I'm glad see you well. Hugs from Brazil for you.
Big day tomorrow
Journal posted on September 7, 2014
Thanks, everybody, for your continuing support!
One of the visualization audios I've been listening to (by Belleruth Naparstek) has the image of a "helpful band of allies" with me in the operating room. You folks are all in that band, and I thank you for being there. I'll talk to you on the other side.
Eleanor R Yes, tomorrow is your date, and we will be thinking of you tomorrow and this week as you progress through your surgery and recovery. I'll tell you a short ... Read more
Eleanor R Yes, tomorrow is your date, and we will be thinking of you tomorrow and this week as you progress through your surgery and recovery. I'll tell you a short and silly story. Much like you, I told my daughter and best friend that I would see them on the other side. My friend is from Kenya, had never heard that statement, and was shocked as they wheeled me off to surgery on that note. She thought I meant something very different! Fortunately she asked my daughter why I said that, and Erica explained that American saying. So, see us on the other side, but on this side! Good luck to you, I know you'll do great. Eleanor
Best of luck to you Tom. I will keep you in my prayers. Blessings to you for a successful surgery and a full recovery.
Joaquim Cimoes Dear Tom, I will say a pray for you tomorrow. All the best from Brazil for you. Keep in touch about your recovery. A lot of hugs. Renata
Julia Hsu Tom, good luck tomorrow. Tomorrow is my birthday and it's special because the successful heart valve surgery in May allows me to look forward to many healthy ... Read more
Julia Hsu Tom, good luck tomorrow. Tomorrow is my birthday and it's special because the successful heart valve surgery in May allows me to look forward to many healthy years to come. Wish you the best outcome from the surgery. Julia
Olga Landry I will keep you in my prayers it strange to think I should of been having my surgery tomorrow as well but got postponed till Sept 30.
Sandy Poe like Michael said after his surgery and I before thank you God and please watch out for him. there was a post on facebook that said how young is your heart ... Read more
Sandy Poe like Michael said after his surgery and I before thank you God and please watch out for him. there was a post on facebook that said how young is your heart and Michael summed it up very well he's heart is now 6 days old, not quite the 6 million dollar man but he is happy with the out come you will do great just have faith in the staff and all the support they will help you thru this and god is watching out for you steading your surgeons hands.
Terrie Syvertsen Tom-Prayers and well wishes are going out across the lands for you today. May the strong and sure hands of your surgeon and his team guide you to the place ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Tom-Prayers and well wishes are going out across the lands for you today. May the strong and sure hands of your surgeon and his team guide you to the place of recovery and smooth healing. Our hearts are with you from your community and beyond this day. Be Well.
All the best for today best wishes Kels
Rosseneni Flores hi tom! by the time you read this, i hope you are already up and taking your first steps towards your recovery. God is good! God Bless you always.
Pre-op Conference and Cath: Check
Journal posted on September 5, 2014
I did the pre-op conference and the cardio angiogram yesterday.
Regarding the latter, you were all correct: I did not need to have an overnight bag. My wife and I were home by 3:30 in the afternoon. They were able to insert the catheter through a wrist artery, which they told me makes for a speedier recovery. My right forearm was a little puffy and tender the rest of the day, but when I woke up this morning it felt fine. There's a little bruise, but it's not even particularly colorful.
Dr Couper's office called this afternoon to confirm my bright and early appointment Monday morning: arrive at 5:30 AM for 7:30 surgery. I am hoping that Dr. C and the surgical team keep a different workday clock than I do - I'm not sure I would trust myself with sharp objects before about 9 on a Monday morning ;-)
Have a wonderful weekend ! Eat, drink and be merry !
Eleanor R I am glad you had a relatively uneventful cardio angiogram, that things went normal for you. I had the same experience, couldn't even locate the entry site ... Read more
Eleanor R I am glad you had a relatively uneventful cardio angiogram, that things went normal for you. I had the same experience, couldn't even locate the entry site after two days, no bruising even. I hope the surgery proves to be the same "textbook" as my surgeon called my own. Sounds like you're on the right path, good luck to you, I will be thinking about you Monday. Eleanor
Michael Meyer Sounds great. Glad to head the cath went so well. One of things that I specifically remember prior to the anesthesia was the mass of people busy and scurrying ... Read more
Michael Meyer Sounds great. Glad to head the cath went so well. One of things that I specifically remember prior to the anesthesia was the mass of people busy and scurrying around in the OR. That was right before I went to sleep, so I am sure they are good at that hour :).
Enjoy the weekend and we look forward to hearing from you post op.
Thats good news all the best for your op best wishes Kels
Terrie Syvertsen Assure yourself that your "Team" of people will be wide awake and have their "surgical buzz" going on in preparation for your very Special Day.
You will be ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Assure yourself that your "Team" of people will be wide awake and have their "surgical buzz" going on in preparation for your very Special Day.
You will be surprised that one minute you are awake and smiling up at more than likely your surgeon who will be there to guide you off to a place that once you wake you will probably have the biggest grin on your face ever as you will be thinking to yourself "I am awake and it is done!" The greatest feeling ever! Then you will be in your own unique to only you "Healing Place" and life will begin anew! Prayers and Universal wishes that all runs smoothly for both you, your loved ones and know we are all here in your heartland community following your journey with you. It will all go well. Take care and know your strength will carry you through! Terrie
Pre-op conference and cath on Thursday
Journal posted on September 2, 2014
OK, this is starting to get serious. I have a pre-op conference and catheterization on Thursday. I have a few questions I know I want to ask about anesthesia, but I'm curious if other people had questions that they'd wished they had asked pre-op.
Also, the standard patient instruction letter the hospital sent said that some patients wind up staying overnight, which surprised me a little based on what the surgeon had told me. (Which was something along the lines of "Expect it to screw up your whole day.") What have been people's experiences with this?
Eleanor R Hi, Tom. The hospital where I had the cath and later the surgery also had that caveat. It is unusual to keep you overnight, but I guess they want to have ... Read more
Eleanor R Hi, Tom. The hospital where I had the cath and later the surgery also had that caveat. It is unusual to keep you overnight, but I guess they want to have that option open. I've only known of one person kept overnight, that was a young work colleague who I took to the Washington Hospital Center with heart problems a few years ago. She needed a cath and they did end up keeping her, because she was not able to lie still for (in her case, 4 hours - mine more recently was only 2 hours) and when they stood her up to walk around to dismiss her, the bleeding began. They ended up releasing her around midnight, after having to lie really still another 4 hours. I doubt this happens frequently for the nurses seemed surprised. In my case they told me they had used a "plug" in the groin and that I should just take it easy for a day or two, going up stairs more carefully, etc. It was fine. But, as you've noticed, it is the fine print and the caveats that makes one crazy. Don't worry about that, just go for it, you'll be fine. Wishing you the best with that and with your upcoming surgery. Eleanor
Tom Elliott Thanks, Eleanor. That's very helpful and I appreciate the good wishes. And you're absolutely right about the fine print and caveats - make you crazy, that stuff will.
Tom, I had MV repair at Brighams in May. You will be in great hands. Ask all questions at the pre op and then again the day of surgery. This is definitely ... Read more
Tom, I had MV repair at Brighams in May. You will be in great hands. Ask all questions at the pre op and then again the day of surgery. This is definitely the most stressful time. After 9/8, you will wake up very relieved it is done. Like you, I thought I was asymptomatic but after six weeks or so, I realized I feel much better than pre-surgery. K.
Lillian Mark HI,
Sometimes they end up doing some intervention s such as open blockage. Nothing usually if they will be having heart surgery soon. Also, some people need ... Read more
Lillian Mark HI,
Sometimes they end up doing some intervention s such as open blockage. Nothing usually if they will be having heart surgery soon. Also, some people need to stay longer due to their personal reaction to sedatives and medications such as heparin. I have a form of hemophilia and they considered keeping me overnight for observation. It is extremely rare for me to have any procedure outpatient. I was able to leave 10 ours later on the same day. They even said I could drive as my body doesn't respond to sedation. Basically everyone is different. Everything considered, it does eat up your day. I got a lot if helpful information prior to my cath in this community of experience. Let us know how it goes. SEnding heartful supportive wishes.
I had one 5 days ago. You are awake for it, but they give you something to relax you. I think Valium. I did not get any heparin . I arrived at 6:45 AM, ... Read more
I had one 5 days ago. You are awake for it, but they give you something to relax you. I think Valium. I did not get any heparin . I arrived at 6:45 AM, the cath didn't actually start until 9:30 and was released about 2:30. Lots of waiting when you get there then we had to wait for the doctor while I was on the table. I too think it's rare that you have to stay the night. Not to worry ! Susan Sperry
Unless you have specific needs the cath is typically done without an overnight stay. I started in the morning and did not get to leave till the evening. ... Read more
Unless you have specific needs the cath is typically done without an overnight stay. I started in the morning and did not get to leave till the evening. It does take all day.
Remember this procedure is prepping you for surgery, meaning if they find any coronary blockages that they should repair them at the time.
My questions pre-op were around the specific type of surgery robotic vs. median sternotomy which they could not answer as they would define that in the operating room. I would encourage you to aske about specific risk because these physician do these procedures at an exceedingly low level of risk. This should be very encouraging to us all. I also asked about cannulation and the suitability of the femoral arteries for the robotic approach. I had no questions about the anesthesia as I am not allergic to anything. I must say I had an excellent experience with the anesthesia and did not remember the breathing tube removal and the breathing tube was less bothersome than the scope used during the TEE.
I would just say there is no dumb question and ask the cardiologist and surgeon anything that is on your mind.
Michael Meyer
Have an appointment
Journal posted on August 8, 2014
The phone just rang, and it was not, for once, a politician seeking money and/or a vote. It was the surgical scheduler from Brigham and Women's: if you're not busy on September 8, drop by and have your mitral valve repaired.
So I've got a date, and along with it a serious case of jitters. But I'm going on vacation tomorrow for two weeks, which should help some. That should leave just enough time to shop for a reclining chair ;-)
Michael Meyer Tom:
This is good news to have the procedure done at a good hospital. No need to worry, just use the time to relax and prepare yourself for the surgery. You ... Read more
Michael Meyer Tom:
This is good news to have the procedure done at a good hospital. No need to worry, just use the time to relax and prepare yourself for the surgery. You should have every bit of confidence in the surgeon and the facility and people that are going to be taking care of you. You might check out my journal for some advice, make sure to pack both ear plugs and eye covering so you can get some sleep in ICU, I found it too bright and too noisy. This helped a lot. Look forward to hearing about your repair. Have a great labor day weekend. I am 6 weeks post op MVR robotic valve repair at the Cleveland Clinic.
Michael Meyer
My niece is a NICU nurse at that hospital. A good place to go. Hope your vacation was good. Susan Sperry
Virginia (Ginger) French Tom, Just wanted to send you a welcome as surgery approaches and remind you that you have a whole family in the Heart Community, each of whom are someplace ... Read more
Virginia (Ginger) French Tom, Just wanted to send you a welcome as surgery approaches and remind you that you have a whole family in the Heart Community, each of whom are someplace along the Journey you are taking. We are praying for you and will be here, following all that is going on, as well as your support if you have someone posting for you. This is a good time to set the Need-to-dos aside and store up energy for surgery and recovery. All the best, Ginger
Tom Elliott Thanks, everybody. I appreciate the support. I have a mild hearing loss that will be a great advantage with respect to the noise issue that Michael mentions. ... Read more
Tom Elliott Thanks, everybody. I appreciate the support. I have a mild hearing loss that will be a great advantage with respect to the noise issue that Michael mentions. I'll just leave my hearing aids at home, which is probably safer anyway.
Lillian Mark I am glad you got away. I actually chose my own surgery date. I have been watched closely for 32 years with moderate to severe mitral regurg. Some opinions ... Read more
Lillian Mark I am glad you got away. I actually chose my own surgery date. I have been watched closely for 32 years with moderate to severe mitral regurg. Some opinions the surgeon said that it was the right time over three years ago. The surgeon I felt most trusting of felt I should fit right in the best window for surgery. Having wanted me to stay heart untouched as long as I did not fit all criteria for valve surgery. My surgeon ,whom I have worked with about 4 years of evaluations using the protocols that he and his colleagues follow. I too chose a date after a vacation then enjoy some summertime. My date is also prior to the nasty weather that can come and limit rehab options. I am scared too.💟
Waiting for an appointment
Journal posted on August 5, 2014
Well, I finally pulled the trigger about a month ago and said "Let's do this thing," only to find that the trigger has a long slow action: I'm still waiting to get a date for surgery. I'm hoping for early September at Brigham and Women's in Boston, since I'd like to be doing most of my re-hab before the weather gets awful here.
I've been trying to get myself in good shape in the meantime - more mental shape than physical, although I still have hopes of dropping a pound or two. On various people's recommendations I've been listening to Peggy Huddleston's CD. I'm frankly finding her a little irritating to listen to, so I'm shopping around for other guided meditations (recommendations welcome). This may well be just a personal thing - others may find Huddleston just the ticket, so don't let me steer you away, since she does this specifically for surgery prep.
I had my first aortic valve replacement dec 2, 2012 and living in the Syracuse, NY area, we, of course , had snow that day. My brother was flying in from Hartford ... Read more
I had my first aortic valve replacement dec 2, 2012 and living in the Syracuse, NY area, we, of course , had snow that day. My brother was flying in from Hartford and got delayed, arriving after my surgery was finished. Oh well. So I understand and am taking into consideration weather and travel for my second replacement in the near future.
Uploading your photo!
My best wishes to all who are on this crazy journey, and my thanks to Adam and everyone in this community for their support.
If it's not too nosy to ask, how old are you? People on here who've had the repair seem to be doing very well, but they look from their pictures to be 20 years younger than me at least (I'm 61). Am thinking that I might be off work a bit longer.
Not nosy at all, Jean. I was 66 when I had the surgery, and in reasonably good shape going in. And ... Read more
Not nosy at all, Jean. I was 66 when I had the surgery, and in reasonably good shape going in. And my job is pure desk work, so the physical requirements are modest. So six weeks seemed about right.
Enrique, I was fortunate that they were able to repair rather than replace, so except for a few little goretex thingies it's all me in there.