Vic's Posts

It's been a while since I've posted an update on my recovery. This community meant so much to me both pre and post surgery that I can't help but be thankful. I've been doing great, my life is better than ever and I'm happy to say I lost 50 pounds throughout the year through diet and exercise (although I'm positive I gained it all back Thanksgiving Day). Today I'm writing because I had an unbelievable opportunity presented to me. I was interviewed about my health journey!! I was on the cover of a magazine and given a chance to share the experience with countless others. I was so happy to give this community a shoutout in the article too. I'm humbled with the knowledge that someone may be able to find solace in this group just like my wife and I did in our most dire time of need. If you're still on the road to surgery, it's ok to be scared. It's ok to worry. But be sure to reach out to your supporting cast and let yourself get those worries off your chest. Ask your questions, gain peace of mind. You'll be better for it. If you're in recovery now, keep fighting. Keep getting better each and every day. You aren't defined by how quickly you recover, but by simply enduring and overcoming. Don't turn away help, I know I felt like I didn't want to burden anyone but I had to realize I couldn't do it alone. Family and friends are always happy to help. I'm going to continue becoming the best version of myself I can be. Please feel free to reach and message us on social media if you ever need words of "wisdom" (I don't feel like I know much but I'm happy to share in what worked for me) or if you just want to talk it out, because trust me just getting it out is ALWAYS helpful. Thank you everyone! -Vic B. Below is the link for the online article, you can pick up an actual magazine in the Bakersfield newspaper. :) https://www.bakersfield.com/bakersfield-life/in-sickness-and-in-health/article_ececfb53-cd95-58f5-ac64-3fe008809c15.html

It's been about 3 full weeks and I'm doing great, slowly but surely. I have been walking like before and haven't been tired like I was in the hospital for some time now. I owe so much to my team at Cedars, the entire staff was incredible. Dr. Trento was actually able to repair my valve so I don't have a MVR I'll be good for at least another 20 years from what he told me. :) My ICU team who got me back on my feet. Most importantly, I owe a huge debt of gratitude to my loving wife, she dealt with cranky me and needy me, with the most care I could ever imagine. Love you Sosh. To everyone going through surgery soon, stay positive. It's scary delving into what's unknown but go couragesly knowing that you will come out better and stronger than before. My scar is a badge of honor that I wear proudly (I actually have been more proud of it than I initially thought I would be). Stay looking ahead to recovery. To those in recovery, forge ahead and maintain the good progress. Thanks for all the well wishes, I apologize for it responding to everything lol I've been focused on getting to full strength and then some. Thanks again!!

i love to laugh, that's an understatement, I've been feeling better now that I'm home. I've found a pillow to stint my incision site helps so much while I'm watching tv. 😂😅 I guess what I'm saying is, I never thought I would feel a little bit of pain from laughing afterwards, but, it's entirely worth it! I hope everyone is recovering well. DONT STOP LAUGHING!