Trygve's Journal

Tammy Gonzalez  I just read your story. Thank you for sharing. I've often wondered about the TSA thing (especially as I acquire more hardware). Love hearing about your "feline monster". They are a blessing for us most definitely! Take care!

Rita Savelis  Alas pacemakers are common and boring and banal , Trygve! Glad you are doing okay with yours. With the new airport machines (where you hold your hands up) it's fine to go through. I get patted down when they have the old screening machines But gosh they must see hundreds of pacemakers a day. I never carry a card. I'll show them my bulge if they want to see it! When I get an MRI a rhythmologist checks my pacemaker before and after and makes an adjustment.
Since I am deathly skinny, the too large pacemaker bulges out and that's the only thing that bothers me. But enough about me! Stay healthy!

Deena Z  My Trygve, you don't let much slow you down!  So so glad your surgery went well.  Must take a lot of worry away.  Thxs for the update.

Trygve Harris  Thanks so much for your messages and well wishes. I'm finally out of the gate it seems, and ready to rejoin the world. Hard to believe but super excited. Who knew a trade show would be thrilling to attend? My pacemaker is the size of thumbnail and nearly flat. There are two in there. It's completely undetectable it seems. Yes, TSA is probably bored with it as they see so many but for me it was a big deal. The agent was not quick enough to tell me not to show my card but he didn't even look at it! And, quite weirdly, when I had a port, something showed up in my groin and they always hand patted me down. The port has been gone for a year, but the thing flagged, But it's gone now suddenly with the pacemaker.

Rose Madura  Beautiful picture! He is stunning. Yes, cats are very in tune to how their "parents" feel. I'm sure he misses you. 

Richard Munson  Our 4 legged friends are very attuned to how we feel. I often read about dogs that are trained to detect many diseases and to react when their 2 legged buddies are not in sync. No doubt cats are the same. Not sure about pet snakes. Do pet pythons squeeze their loved ones? 

Deena Z  Awhh, your protector.  I hope when you arrive home he gets that you are now all fixed up. (Finally).  
And there must be a good  story behind his name!

Trygve Harris  The Professor figured it all out early. The day after our distillery cat, Mrs Stubbs, was cat-napped (yes, really,) someone threw this little orange monster out of a car in the lane way behind the house. He made a beeline for the kitchen door, skinny, screaming and stinky. There were plenty of other cats around,we fed them, but we let this tiny and sick creature run into the kitchen and he stayed there for 6 weeks. If I or my assistant went outside, he came with, but stayed between our feet. I was frantically looking for Mrs Stubbs, and Hassan was the one who fed him and entertained him in the evenings.
Eventually I had to admit Mrs Stubbs was gone; I blame my ex as he was obsessed with her. The Professor seemed kind of air-headed but sweet. We decided to call him Professor Maurice Pimblebrook, but hes registered at the vet as the Professor--this is hilarious in Arabic.
Over time, and some vet visits, he got micro-chipped, treated for parasites, cleaned....everything to give him the appearance of being a normal cat. He was already fixed, which is why he has a notch out of his ear. Eventually, very slowly, he became a bit trusting, more and more, and hung out for the distillation, which still shocks me as it's so hot and the air shimmers with frankincense. It's an intense environment and most humans can't stand it. But he stayed with his friend Hassan and be barely even came upstairs,. He slept in the kitchen. Eventually we started letting a in a cat who was bullied outside. This is Henri. Something bad happened to him and he is ultra skittish,and terrified, but after a night or two of sleeping in my office, with safety, food, water, a cozy bed and a litter box, he was soon waiting at the door by mid-afternoon. The Professor decided Henri was a threat and tried to kill him so we kept them apart. When I went to Dubai for a few days in winter 2022, I was diagnosed with heart failure and needed surgery asap. My insurance paid for surgery in Abu Dhabi, and I probably would not have made the flight home anyway. So I had to gather everything in Muscat and get back to UAE. I grabbed an apartment in Dubai and took the Professor, as Hassan was to follow and he was better suited to deal with Henri. Hassan didn't get a visa due to his passport (Bangladesh) so we are making some changes and trying again. In the meantime, Henri is now an indoor cat, who actually got into the bed with Hassan a couple of nights ago. It took years for him to relax that much. I know Hassan will be pleased to see his friend the Professor again. And I'll be happy to see Henri. More information than anyone asked for, but I feel like the entire story needs to be told, at least in relation to the name.

Trygve Harris  This is Henri--bullied and attacked outside, I think he had virtually no chance of survival. Now he plays endlessly with his toys, chirps like a little bird, and steals his human's pillows at night. Safe and secusre at his home.

Deena Z  That's a glorious story, Trygve! -Actually it's more like several vignettes all coming together to prove the power of love, patience and persistence. All four of you (two humans, two cats) have been survivors of ill circumstances that you didn't ask for, but fought to make better. It's a good sign for your futures!
(PS Hope the Professor is more tolerate of Henri this time around. Both are adorable looking.)

Susan Lynn  Trygve - This is such great news! The right direction is good - very good! I'm glad you received excellent care in NYC and that your recovery is going so well! Wishing you continued healing and safe travels back home.

Deena Z  So happy for you, Trygve.  Keep us posted with your recovery.  Manhattan is a great walking city.  You go girl! 

Dan Fouratt  Trygve, thanks for the update.  I agree this site does not like cutting and pasting.  Keep on getting better.

Rita Savelis  It's been awhile since anyone here described heart valve surgery as being hit by a truck! My feelings exactly and I empathise. Wishing you a smooth recovery. You need some time to heal. Take care Trygve.

J Alexander Lassally  I like all you wrote, and to pick up on the humor thread - one surgeon I consulted with used that exact phrase, and I did not really get it.
But  -- so true. Not getting hit by a car or a stealth Tesla, but a big f-ing truck !!!! 
Keep healing. You are a Mt Sinai success story !!!! 

Richard Munson  Wow, this lady is such a warrior. A fighter. I love her posts. When i think great attitude, your picture comes up. 

Pamela Gregory  Definitely like getting hit by a truck!!! Sounds like you are on the slow but steady path to healing I'm glad you got out to a park

Trygve Harris  Thanks so much for all your support---just a reminder if anyone who has an upcoming surgery is put off by my hit-by-a-truck analogy, this is my second huge sternum-breaking, heart lung machine, valve replacing surgery in as many years. Most surgeries, including my first one, were way easier.  I'm 3 weeks out, exactly. Walking 3000-4000 steps a day. That's all I'm doing so far, just walking. But the doctors seemed quite pleased with it. Now, imagine if there was a way to get rid of stressful things that were put off for the three weeks! I

Rose Madura  Trygve, you have been through so much! I'm glad all is well now.  Welcome once again to recovery.  May it be uneventful.  ❤️‍🩹

Ana Brusso  Glad to hear you are now in recovery. You have gone through a lot but you are strong and God wants you tobegere. Continued good recovery and God bless you 🙏❤️❤️‍🩹

Rita Savelis  So nice to hear your news Trygve. You are a complicated case, as you say, but I'm glad Mt Sinai took care of you. Welcome to the pacemaker club! 12 days in ICU is a lot and you are probably exhausted. Wishing you a smooth healing.

Pamela Gregory  So glad you are heading home for some well deserved comfort. I'm glad they kept you to make sure everything was ok. You can begin your healing journey now

Trygve Harris  Thank you all so much. I'm still on pain meds--less but still.  This morning I walked to the bakery, about 1600 steps. It was pretty taxing but I did it. Need my croissant and coffee. It's been too long.

Deena Z  So glad that the surgery is over and that you are beginning to feel better, Trygve!!  Love your priorities in terms of your walking destination. Getting a decent coffee and croissant is an admirable goal.   Thank you for the update.  Enjoy the Autumn colors, stay bundled and spoil yourself in every way you can imagine.

Susan Lynn  Trygve - So glad surgery is behind you! You're a heart gladiator, so you know recovery doesn't happen overnight. But, 1600 steps sounds like a great start! Wishing you continued success! Please keep us posted!

Dennis Shaffer  After reading your story, I am convinced you are one tough person. Glad to hear the surgery is behind you. Wishing you the very best in your recovery. 

Marie Myers  Pilates is great for increasing core strength. Sounds like you are ready for your next step. Godspeed!

Deena Z  We are all rooting for you, Trygve. Let's get you all repaired and fixed this time. Will be thinking of you and saying prayers..

Ana Brusso  Sorry to hear this dear Trygve, but glad you were proactive and went to Dr. Adams at Mt. Sinai. Will pray for your redo to be successful in October. God bless you 🙏❤️

Yumiko Ishida  Oh, no! I know you suspected it, but it still must be hard. Glad you found Dr. Adams. Wishing you a successful surgery in October!

Rose Madura  Oh no! How awful Trygve!  You attitude is amazing and good for you for being willing to travel here for your surgery. God bless you. Please keep us posted. 🪖❤️‍🩹👍

Jessica Antonioli  I am so sorry to hear that you will need to have another surgery.  Your positive attitude and bravery are amazing and I wish you all the best.  

Nancy Romero   Dr Adam's and Team are the best! He was my surgeon last June 2023! Everything is good with me. You will be in good hands!

Deena Z  Trygve, my heart feels for you. You've gone through so much and at a young age. You're in the best hands with Dr. Adams and his team. Hang-in-there. Rooting for you.

Trygve Harris  Wow, thanks so much to all of you for posting such kind words and encouraging feedback about Dr Adams! I also get the feeling I'm in great hands. Of course I will travel here! I'm from here! The situation last year was like a crazy serendipity--total shock about the valve, total shock I needed OHS! It takes a lot to make me speechless, as you can probably tell. But I was there, had excellent insurance for the UAE, and very crap insurance here in the US. There's a little more to it than that but I swear that is the gist. I had just left my frankincense distillery in Oman, and logic dictated I get the operation there in Abu Dhabi. I'd been working in the Gulf for 11 years, and had no medical team here in New York. Wild how things work out. And I'm symptomatic but not as bad as last year (knock on wood). I'm also in far better shape, stronger, and lost much of the chemo weight from 2016. Thanks so much for all your vibes, wishes and prayers!

Adam Pick  Hi Trygve - Yes! Yes! Yes! You are in the best of hands with Dr. Adams for your upcoming mitral valve surgery.  Doctor Adams is a mitral valve guru.  I have been fortunate to know and work with him over the years. I have seen him operate and I have been lucky to go on medical missions with Dr. Adams. He is an extraordinary personal and an excellent surgeon.  Many patients in this community have had excellent outcomes with Dr. Adams.  If anybody would like to learn more about Dr. Adams, please click https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/surgeons/dr-David-Adams-New+York-New%20York.php

Trygve Harris  Thanks Adam! I can't imagine what I'd do without your website. Thank you so much! You are a fountain of knowledge. I am inspired and impressed with Dr Adams. I'm not shocked I need another OHS as I knew there was something wrong and it's better to have it recognized and dealt with than to just have a creeping discomfort.

John Russo  Dr Adams is operating on me on Oct 3rd. Dr El-Hamamy will be performing a Ross procedure on me as well. I have serval issues going on due to endocarditis.
Best of luck to you.
We are in amazing hands!

Deena Z  Dear Trygve,
What an overwhelming situation. Definitely get other opinions. —- Dr. Gerdisch, Dr Adams at Mt Sinai in NY that specializes in the hardest mitral valve cases, maybe even have CC in Dhabi talk to the CC in Cleveland. Hang-in-there. You need a confidence boost in the medical system.
Thinking of you with prayers and positive thoughts. One gigantic virtual hug .

Rose Madura  Trygve, what an ordeal you have been through. I'm so sorry you have to deal with this. Your idea to reach out for more opinions is a great one. I will pray for you. ❤️‍🩹🙏

Trygve Harris  Hi Deena  I just made an appointment with Dr Adams! Super excited about it--not til July but it's due to me being here, and following the immuno-therapy protocol. I definitely need a confidence boost in the medical system. I might also get an opinion with Dr Gerdisch and Dr Rao in Indiana.

Trying to get another insurance to take me on.......we shall see. I was actually at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio last month, although for the cancer thing--I was trying to get someone there prescribe the keytruda and that Merck could pay it (as they supposedly do) and send it to AD. But that was a fantasy. CCAD is a separate hospital from the one in Ohio. The whole keytruda thing--the immunotherapy, is not necessarily a scam, but a venal and harsh situation. I don't know what insurances pay, but I'm sure they insist on a volumne discount. When someone has to pay out of pocket, like I do now, it's $24,000 a shot. It's under patent for 2 more years. But it apparently works great for braca cancers. I'm glad my AXA insurance paid it all last year, before they weaseled out of any more this year. I have heard the gov hospital here in UAE will pay for cancer treatment for anyone who needs it. Still an option. I'm almost done with the Keytruda, just a few more.......

Susan Lynn  Trygve - You have certainly had more than your share of health challenges, but you'll find the right surgeon to help you. Please keep us posted. You'll remain in my prayers!

Trygve Harris  It seems to be an Abbott Porcine bioprostheic size #29 https://www.cardiovascular.abbott/us/en/hcp/products/structural-heart/surgical-valve-solutions/epic-tissue-valve.html

I'm seeing now the possible side effects from this valve. Separate from the cancer drug.

What a mess.  The Echo from May 4 says "there is moderate to severe mitral stenosis." Peak gradient is 22 mmHg and mean gradient is 8mmHg (HR was 58 when they did this)
It says further PHT:158ms. The valve opening appears small, MV+VA<1.5 cm (2). Aortic valve sclerosis without stenosis. Insufficent TR jet to estimate RSVP IVC is normal.

The keytruda has it's own warnings. I'm stopping it.

I will post the TEE once I can get back on the app. It appears to be down.

Trygve Harris  The TEE says valve appears well seated. Moderately severe stenosis noted peak gradient is 17 and mean is 11. Layered echodensity and thickening noted on the leaflets, partially restricting their full opening. The appearance is suggestive of layered thrombosis, or possible inflammatory process. That was Jan 10

Trygve Harris  I should caveat and say I don't know it's the valve, or even the cancer drug. I'm just trying to learn something. I made an appointment in NYC this summer.......

Susan Lynn  Trygve - I'm so sorry to read about your health challenges. This is certainly a complicated situation, but Dr. David Adams at Mt. Sinai has an incredible reputation for his expertise and surgical talent. If he's not the guy, he can certainly tell you who is. He's one of the best mitral valve surgeons in the US and probably the world. I think a call to his office is a good place to start. Many of his patients are regular contributors to this site. Hopefully, they will reply. Best of luck to you!

Sue Maize  Oh Trygve….that’s a lot to deal with—I’m so sorry you’re going through so many issues, both with your health and with the systems you need to navigate. Maybe check out Rita Savelis’s story and journal—she has some similar experiences and may at least be able to offer some personal insight and support, a lovely person. 
I hope the tide changes in your favour soon, you’ve certainly been through enough. 🙏🏻❤️‍🩹

Trygve Harris  Sorry for so much information. Susan, thanks! I will call his office. Sue--very true she has. Thanks for your help!

Yumiko Ishida  Dr. David Adams is probably your person. Mitral stenosis is not very common in the US, so no one specializes in it, but mitral valve is definitely Dr. Adams’ specialty. And he’s in NY!

For your calcium / warfarin situation, you may want to consider taking dietary supplements that raise your INR (fish oil, vitamins D, E, A, etc) and increase your vitamin K intake. Vitamin K helps calcium go to your bones. Otherwise the calcium tends to stick to the walls of your arteries, stenotic valves, prosthetic valves, etc. After being on warfarin for a year I went from mild osteopenia to full on osteoporosis. My stenotic mitral valve was not calcified before but by the time of my surgery it was calcified and ready to be replaced. The supplements approach is something I started post surgery, in an attempt to keep my new valve clean and send the calcium to my bones, and I have no idea if it’s going to work, but my bone density situation is kind of desperate. I had to do things gradually. I did notify the coumadin clinic every time I made adjustments to my supplements, and they were ok with it as long as my INR was in therapeutic range.

Rita Savelis  Oh, Trygve, so sorry that you've lost your Abu Dhabi insurance, and now have to work the US system. Especially with 2 difficult conditions. As always you have too much on your plate and it's hard to be the "one in a hundred" patient. If there is a great doctor in the US he/she will be in NY or Cleveland, but I have no names having never had treatment in the US (thank goodness for French insurance). Take care.

Trygve Harris  Hi Rita! Yes, French Insurance. It's like a dream.... I'm hopefully up for another worldwide insurance. Also I did finally get my American Insurance back as well......upgraded, but of course, being America, there's a catch, and most hospitals won't accept it, even though it's blue cross, because its through ACA (Obamacare.) Hoping Mt Sinai does. One thing that's good in UAE, there are no long wait times, and many good doctors. And all the latest stuff. The Abu Dhabi insurance was actually my Omani insurance (12 years I had it) and it was world wide.  They even paid my breast cancer at Sloan. It was AXA (French, naturally.) Excellent insurance. Last year they were sold to a Canadian Holding Company, Fairfax. It's in Toronto. It's all about acquisitions, board members, etc. Here in the Gulf they show themselves as "Pan-Gulf" They based the refusal, right after I renewed, basically on the braca gene, and therefore every cancer thing I get is part of this, and the heart came from radiation to the chest for cancer (braca gene.) I'm thinking of notifying Fairfax as the refusal to treat me, a paying customer for a over a decade, as racially or ethnically targeted. So I'm scrambling now. At least they paid for last year. How are you? You were one of the people who rally made me stand up straighter when I was going though everything........Best regards

Trygve Harris  Hi Yumiko

Mitral stenosis isn't common in the US? I didn't know that., Your information is excellent, thank you very much. I'm already on Vit D, just started. I got off the warfarin because my INR was 1.2 and I rally hated the restrictions. I don't eat meat. Trying to limit carbs. Watch salt. Most of my diet is green. So am back on eliquis for now, And exactly as you mention, the Vit K is necessary to keep you bones. I feel like warfarin is something for the doctors benefit, not mine. And it's also contraindicated for many essential oils.

I own an essential oil company.

Got to find someone to do better.

How are you feeling now?

Yumiko Ishida  Thank you for the update, Trygve! Glad you were able to switch to Eliquis. Warfarin is so tricky. I used to take a lot of herbal supplements but had to give up on many of them because of warfarin. Only recently decided to reintroduce them. It is a slow process, but I am hopeful!

Grace Mason   ❤️Glad to hear about your progress Trygve. I hope you can find some answers and am sending prayers 🙏🏼. I admire your strength and perseverance through so many challenges. Prayers that your heart just needs more time to heal.

Rita Savelis  Hi Tryge. Sorry to hear about your latest issues. Heavy sigh. I had chemo 5 years after mitral replacement. So I had some time to recover, unlike you. I remember oncologists being worried about chemo mixing with coumadin. No one quite knew how it would work. And cardios always want me on a high dose of anticoagulants because of the mechanical mitral valve. Those 2 drugs managed together. But chemo is brutal. And heart surgery recovery is brutal. And who needs them at the same time?! You are going through too much. Much compassion. Thinking of you. As always I have confidence in your Abu Dhabi team of doctors. Take care.

Trygve Harris  Thank you so much....it's so frustrating! I had about 3 weeks where I started to actually exercise. Finally! Now this. Tomorrow I'm going to the anti-coagulent clinic.....and still have nearly a month or radiation left. But The heart surgeon, whom I adore, brought me a new cardiologist and he seems great! Didn't try to avoid my questions.

Eileen Rivera Orench  Hi Trygve,
I’m sorry you are going through this difficult time.  I’ll be praying for your healing.
Hugs!

Grace Mason   Trygve, 
It is good to hear from you. I'm glad to hear you are able to now continue in your recovery journey with some yoga and walking. You are so strong and amazing doing recovery from both OHS and cancer treatments!! 
I am sorry to hear that doctor's did not recognize your heart problems earlier and dismissed your symptoms. You give great advice. It is so true about advocating for yourself. You know your body best, trust your own feelings and keep asking questions and for additional opinions until you yourself are satisfied with the answers.Wishing you well in your recovery journey and sending prayers that each week you see and feel improvement 🙏🏼❤️

Kath Duggan  I am so sorry that you are going through this .As a 2 time cancer survivor I have an idea of what you are going through….but everyone’s journey is different. I believe you are so right that many times things are dismissed by doctors. Two and a half years ago I went to my PCP with extreme fatigue (I thought cancer was back)….he told me to take naps! Last year my wonderful cancer surgeon listened to my heart and said something is wrong. She referred me to a cardiologist and told me to “Fight for yourself,if you feel something is wrong you have too stand up for yourself and find doctors that you’re comfortable with to help.”  I am sending you prayers and positive thoughts to fight this❤️❤️

Marie Myers  Wow, you have  a lot on your plate! Prayers for strength and energy to fight for yourself and to get through your treatment. 

Rita Savelis  Thanks for sharing Trygve. It was nice to hear from you despite the heavy news. I'm positive you are getting great care in the Emirates. And it is sometimes  true that if you have singular complicated health problems, you are an interesting case to doctors who thrive on intellectual challenge. I've felt that way about my case. I had cancer before heart valve surgery and 3 cancers after heart valve surgery. The last 3 did not spread. I empathise with you but was glad to read you in such good spirits. Trusting that your doctors have your back can make one feel better. And of course there are strong links between chemo, radiation and heart disease. And women are often ignored in the cardiac world. Take care and enjoy the winter sunshine in the UAE.

Rose Madura  Oh my, you really have been through so much and have a wonderful attitude.  Praying for the best outcome for you.  It's terrible that the doctors in NY ignored your complaints.  God bless you.

Deena Z  Hi Trygve, boy have you been through a lot and you are now in a place that HEARS YOU and takes good care of you. I can tell from how you speak in the post that you are strong in mind and body and don't ever let that awesome personality trait go away. Will say a prayer for you as soon as I post this message.

Susan Lynn  Trygve - You are one amazing woman!!! I am in such admiration of your resilience and spirit. I will join Deena in saying an immediate prayer for you. Keep looking ahead - you're stronger than anything in your path!

Marian Janes  You are very courageous and inspiring. We must advocate for ourselves. Great message. Wishing you healing and hope. 

Ana Brusso  Hello Trygve, it’s good to hear from you. I am in total agreement with Susan Lynn, you are an amazing woman, God bless you and continued healing 🙏❤️

Trygve Harris  Hi Thanks so much for your kind words and supportive kindness. I feel like I was in suspended animation for the entire summer. I was on my own for the entire time. So am even more grateful to be here as people have been uniformly kind and helpful.

Rita Savelis  So nice to hear from you. I love your surgeon and I've never even met him. Take care and get some rest.

Marie Le Roux  So delighted that you are on the mend, Trygve! One breath at a time :). Sending love and hugs and some great memories... PLUS even better ones to come <3

Rose Madura  God bless you!  Your positive outlook will definitely help you. I remember that feeling when we come to realize how very sick we were before OHS saved us!  

Marcia Snyder  So thankful for the good update.  Improvements are still improvements, even when measured in small increments.  Keep improving!

Ana Brusso  I was thinking about you and continue to pray for your recovery from surgery and healing from the cancer also. You are keeping positive and strong and that is a good sign. God bless you Trygve. 🙏❤️

Diane Pellowe  So happy you are doing better.  It’s amazing how you realize how bad you felt when you get fixed and start feeling better.

Trygve Harris  Thank you so much for all the positive remarks and encouragement. And yes, my surgeon is fantastic and I'm thrilled to see him whenever I do. Feeling like crap today with afib but he told me this can go on for months and it's normal. I think it must be so--even though it's just a valve replacement, it's basically a new organ. I'm sure there's a ton going on at the cellular level. 

Marie Le Roux  So happy to see you looking so well, Trygve, despite the long time "on the inside" and new developments that are less than delightful. But going home at last makes up for so much! 

Wishing you a peaceful recovery filled with wonderful rediscoveries of luxuries like deep breaths and of course that magnificent feline companion of yours. Sending love and hugs!

Greg Lewis  Good news! I am gonna share a graph I have posted before, but is one of the most accurate graphs in medicine. ...

Rita Savelis  I hear you Trygve. I've had many cancer diagnoses as well. They suck. But I am glad the doctors are waiting for you to get better from your recent surgery until moving forward. I had 2 cancer diagnoses at the same time and put one on the back burner for 6 months. And forgot about it. Each thing at its own time. Heavy sigh. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is amazing and I am sure you'll get the best of care there.

Marie Myers  I am sorry to hear about your cancer diagnosis. It is quite overwhelming to hear that news while recovering from heart surgery. I hope and pray that you progress smoothly in your heart recovery and can tackle your next issue when the time is right!

Grace Mason   That is a lot to process on top of major heart surgery Trygve. Trust what your body tells you and try to focus on recovering from this surgery. Sending prayers

Suleiman Al-Mandhary  We are very happy to hear surgery went very well first to eliminate your main heart problem and the good news is the heart functioning stronger than before also previous symptoms have gone. 
The recovery may take sometime but slowly you are getting there. 
We are very sorry about cancer problem we think this needs more tests to reconfirm and even if reconfirmed then your current doctor will consider the right date you may start treatment with cancer specialized doctor. 
My friend had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and was adversed not to do surgery but to check the size every 6 months if it is not grow bigger in size then he shouldn't do surgery.
We wish you covering faster and always we pray for you. 

Richard Munson  So much on your plate all at once but from reading your posts, you seem like a positive person,  pretty young and in good hands. Easter is the season of positive outcomes, so the timing could not be better. Wishing you the best from massachusetts on easter weekend. 

Rose Madura  I'm so sorry to hear this along with feeling rotten from Afib. God bless you on this new journey. Take one day at a time. I will be praying for you and may God bless you.

Carolyn Maso  So sorry Trygve... we all go into surgery hoping the diagnosis was accurate and they won't find something else. I feel for you keep the faith, positive attitude... patience... and weather the storm. You are making the right decisions and will get through this, too. Sending you love and a big virtual hug

Trygve Harris  Thanks so much for all your supportive remarks. The cancer diagnosis does seem ridiculous. But yes, it's important to not panic and I do think it's early stage. Just a lot! And this was after the pulmonary hypertension made itself felt. I guess I just assumed I'd be in the overnight healing, and was freaked out when I wasn't 100% better immediately. And my surgeon keeps telling me the same thing Patience is so dang hard!

DeLois Tweedy  I am so sorry to hear you have yet another battle to fight. But from your postings, it appears you are a strong person and a good advocate for yourself. Listen to your body and your doctors. And give recovery the time it needs for complete healing. I too have had multiple cancers and my cardiologist diagnosed my pulmonary hypertension in 2020 along with my valve issues. It is a rare disease and very often misdiagnosed. Glad they caught yours so you can start working on strategies to help. Keeping you in my prayers. Blessings!

Marcia Snyder  Trygve, I had my open heart surgery a day after yours.  OHS is rough!  Five days in ICU, 2 days in a step-down unit.  I had many of the same complications - low blood pressure, Afib, Vtach, and needed a thoracentesis.  I guess they are all normal, or at least not unexpected.  Trust your doctor.  As for the cancer, I also was diagnosed 6 months ago with endometrial cancer.  Ask if you can get your hysterectomy(if you need one) minimally invasive- or is that what you meant by arthroscopic surgery?  Mine was with DaVinci robot, and recovery went extremely well.  There is a web site for when you are ready (not yet), similar to this one, but for cancer survivors, that I found helpful and answered many of my questions.  CSN Chatroom — Cancer Survivors Network.  Best of luck with your recovery.  Many virtual hugs to you.

Trygve Harris  Holy Moses. All this new information--pulmonary hypertension is rare? I thought it was a side effect or an accompanying  package from mitral valve disease. It was something that the new valve will fix I think--with time. I've had it for years. I'd say it started in 2016 and has gotten worse since then. The final couple of months, from the diagnosis up the surgery, it got really bad. I was basically useless.  I don't know if they did anything specific for the pulmonary hypertension. Apparently, one of the other doctors told me, they did a cardioversion in the OR. I seem to be ok now but still having panic attacks that I can logic and breathe down before they get too bad. I think is a side effect from such an intervention. My appetite is coming back,  but this has been nearly two weeks now.

My surgeon, who is not listed on this site, and should be, is Umer Darr, and I can't say enough great things about him. And he took the time to really look at my case, and didn't freak me out in any way, which would have been so easy to do. The emotional turmoil that I've gotten from this OHS is really something. The entire team was excellent but I can't remember hardly any of them. There were plenty of dedicated people, both in surgery and in ICU. Really can't say enough about them. And this hospital serves the entire area, not just the UAE. So give it a consideration if you are anywhere in this part of the the world, especially if your insurance covers it. 

I'm so glad  to have found my way to UAE in general and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi in particular. Talk about kismet!

Tomorrow I'll learn more about the other stuff.

And if anyone has posted to me and not received a reply, please understand that I'm a complete idiot with this type of web site, which I think is modeled on facebook, and I have never used it. Plus my brain is still fogged.

Trygve Harris  This is my kitten who is stressed and freaking out that I left. So i kept this little soft toy next to me for a couple of days and Tom took it to him last night. He cuddled with it, then sat on top of it and finally walked away from it. Exactly how he treats me. I just didn't want him to think he was being left. You're good, Professor!

Marie Le Roux  Thank you for the update, Trygve. 

It really is amazing how the body is designed for equilibrium, and it is headed back there. Time and patience. 

And THAT is just what we would expect of the good Professor. 

Rita Savelis  Sorry to hear that you are still in ICU. I spent 5 days there and certainly was not allowed to walk around. Water retention is very normal after heart surgery as the heart has been through a lot and does not immediately pump correctly. Almost everyone is on diuretic pills for a few days/weeks at least. I am very skinny but had a fat tire of water weight around my waist for a week at least. I'm glad your surgeon is explaining everything to you

Rhodie Jacobson  I'm sorry to hear about your complications and am glad for the discernment of your drs. Whew! Blessings to you!

Louise Moore  Trygve, it's great to read the Dr.'s explanation, thank you as we ride along with you and - you're on your way, recovery has started - be good to yourself and know your life will be better from now on!  ...and yes, they fill us with a tremendous amount of water during surgery and it takes a little time for that water weight to leave our bodies. Every day, you are a day better 👍🏼

Rose Madura  Trygve, I had a variety of complications so I understand your feelings. God bless you on this journey. Your cat is adorable and needs you. Hope you are able to travel home soon. But focus on getting well.

Grace Mason   I am glad to hear you feel better when walking than you did before surgery. Hope your body continues to adjust and you are amazed with your progress Loved your cat story,too

Susan Lynn  Woo-hoo! Great to hear from you - welcome to recovery! Your photo is wonderful! You don't look the slightest bit stressed - that's a sign of someone who's done their homework and chosen confidently! Be well, Trygve!

Marie Le Roux  I agree, not everyone looks that positive/excited before major surgery, Trygve. So happy to hear that the surgery has been successful and has given a better understanding. Now for some serious R&R as you recuperate. I do believe Professor Pimblebrook will be at hand for moral support, and am sending my very best wishes. 

STEPHEN MORRIS  I remember going into my surgery..looking at my kids trying to be strong. The human body and spirit is really amazing as told by the stories here.

Trygve Harris  Thank you all! Some of the doctors came over just before this picture just to say some encouraging and nice things before surgery. Joking and stuff. When they wheeled me down the hallway, I saw what looked like a great mass of doctors, nurses and the like standing by the OR doors. All for me. That really was comforting. Cardiac surgeries have the entire team there who specialize in only cardiac surgeries. It's so normal for them. They do it every day. For us having Open Heart Surgery, it can be so scary, but for these guys its just what they do, they've seen it before, whatever it is, a hundred times. I found I could relax and laugh, even before going in

Susan Lynn  Happy Birthday, Trygve! I can't think of a better gift than getting this procedure behind you and moving on to many, many decades of future celebrations! All the best to you!

Rose Madura  Happy birthday. You have a beautiful smile and outlook.  I had my surgery at age 59 and I now feel better than I ever have in my life.  Godspeed.

Marie Le Roux  Wishing you the smoothest and most successful surgery, a light heart and superhuman recovery, Trygve. Lots of love and hugs... Wonderful things are waiting for you. 

Ana Brusso  Happy Birthday Aries baby. Lifting you up in prayer for your successful surgery tomorrow. God bless you 🎂🙏❤️

Ana Brusso  Congratulations on your successful surgery. Write when you can,  just concentrate on your recovery and be patient with your body. God bless you 🙏❤️

Klara Čičić  Dear Trygve, good for you for sharing your feelings, that is very brave and a good way to let some steam out. We have all felt those lows you are talking about... Your symptoms are likely to improve dramatically once the surgery is done and your body heals properly. Focus on those positive thoughts. Statistics are way in your favour. You just have to endure this waiting, which is actually the worst part! You can do this!!

Greg Lewis  Praying for you Trygve. Try to stay busy with something.  Don't just sit and think. Play cards, read, get out to a movie, go for a drive, take photos. Stop thinking.
Ask God for his strength, and peace. He is there for you. Waiting for you to reach out to him.
You will be OK. 
If it gets too bad, or worsens,  though, go to ER. 

Ana Brusso  Totally appreciate your honesty. Greg’s wisdom and advice is right on. Will continue to pray for your peace of mind. You will be fine, hang in there and pray. God bless you 🙏❤️

Louise Moore  Dear Trygve, forgive me if I mentioned this before but I tried "guided imagery" to calm my thoughts and to feel grounded again - and it worked for me and it stuck, I remained grounded and calm in the time before surgery.  Waiting is the worst time, -by this time next week you'll be in recovery time, healing and a renewed heart for many years to come!

Rhodie Jacobson  It's hard to imagine all of the prayers for you right now but please know there are many. I pray for geed rest and for peace for you this week. God Bless You!

Trygve Harris  Wow thanks for all the supportive comments! I feel better today--I actually feel very positive most of the time. It's the waiting, as many of you noted. My entire medical team has told me now much better I'll feel. I can't wait. tbh. Hard to imagine what breathing and moving freely is after 7 years of this.

Susan Lynn  Trygve - We reserve the term 'heart gladiator' for people like you! You're going to put your procedure behind you and be on to life's great adventures in no time at all! This is just a detour - you've got this! Enjoy the quick nap - we'll be waiting to welcome you to recovery! All good things ahead!

Marcia Snyder  Trygve, your surgery date is almost here!  Waiting is the worst, isn't it.  My surgery is the day after yours, and I really want to get this over with, and feel better.  Hope you are feeling much better really soon.  Talk to you post-surgery, in a week or two.  

Marie Myers  I am sorry you have been postponed! Several heart warriors on this site have experienced that unwelcome news also. Hang in there!

Rose Madura  Trygve, I had surgery postponed and it threw me for a loop emotionally for some reason. I think I was ready for it and then had to wait.  But everything happens for a reason. Once I realized that I wasn't the emergency, it gave me a different perspective. God bless you on your journey.

Trygve Harris  Ah that's true, not being the emergency. It has really thrown me though....I was preparing to go to the hospital!

STEPHEN MORRIS  I can understand how postponed surgery could emotional. But I had to have emergency surgery and I know people had their surgeries postponed. Because my surgery took 6 hours longer than expected...I know people who showed up for surgery that day, also didn't get their surgery. Obviously,  I am grateful for my surgery and hope that all others affected understand.

Trygve Harris  Yes, it's logical and a good point. It's 9 days.......not just because of my surgeon, but another doctor too, after him. Yikes

Steven Methot  Oh gee.  You can now enjoy the site of Abu Dhabi (notice I used singular instead of plural).  Keep your spirits up!

Deena Z  A delay has to be frustrating, particularly when you have symptoms and have gotten yourself all psyched-up.   Take it easy, so that you don't push yourself too hard.  Try to stay busy making sure you have all you need for the hospital and when you get home.  ---Happy music, happy movies, a diary,  whatever it takes.  You are almost there.

Samantha McClain   I can’t imagine the all the emotions your goring through, give your self all the space to process this setback and come back more ready then before. 

Trygve Harris  Thanks so much for your replies! They called as I was packing to go to the hospital. We also have Ramadan starting tomorrow......which might actually mean that's why they were able to schedule next week so easily. I hadn't thought of that. Lighter schedule....

Cheryl Bast  I'm back after a 10 year absence and I want to wish you a successful surgery. You are going to feel like a new woman down the road. Your Professor Pimblebrook will give you so much comfort!!

Rose Madura  What a beautiful cat. He will help you with your recovery. It's amazing how much animals pick up. When my cats were alive, if I was sick, they would lay with me or just sit there and watch me because, I think, they were worried.