Arlene's Guestbook

Arlene VanNorstrand  Hi Beth I had a full sternotomy. Each day gets better but I can shower,dress, and do my hair all by me self. I can get in and out of bed and a chair well. I have pain but it is manageable so different just 6 days out. I choked when I took a drink today and that was awful. Keep moving it helps not to get stiff. I also have been fortunate to be able to sleep. When I wake up I am able to go right back to sleep. I only take one nap for an hour a day. My husband has been wonderful and so helpful. I also can’t say enough good things about Cleveland Clinic. My thoughts are with you as you await surgery. Waiting is hard and not getting sick again this time of year is hard. I know you already were.

Mike Roskowinski  Arlene I agree with Ripley start as soon as you can walking. I got an infection in the hospital and I ended up staying there for a total of 16 days. I walked the unit over and over again everyday since I was unable to leave from there. I got home and walked 3+ miles a day. I began cardio rehab as soon as possible and I was back to playing golf and sand volleyball after my 13 weeks of waiting for my sternum to heal fully. I am 9 months out of surgery and back to my normal schedule. Going to the gym 5 days a week, playing sports and working my butt off. You will be surprised how quickly you bounce back. Just walk and try to do a little more everyday and don't overdue it!

Arlene VanNorstrand  Thank you for the encouragement. I arrived in Cleveland today I have a full day of pre op appointments tommorrow and surgery Friday. It was hard saying goodbye to the kids and grandsons last night but I know this is where I need to be.

Arlene VanNorstrand  Hello Adam, Thank you for the welcome and the website. I just finished reading your book today as I am on restricted activity and needed something to do. I had a CT scan yesterday and I have a heart catherization this coming Wednesday. I will then see the surgeon my cardiologist recommended. I have always had a heart murmur and from the echocardiogram they could not tell if I have a bicuspid aortic valve or not. The cardiologist thinks that I do. I feel better prepared in this process than I would have been if I had not come across your website and book. I want to be prepared and be able to prepare my family for what is ahead of us. I have days I feel pretty good as long as I don’t do too much and I have days I feel awful but I know we will get through this that it is a process. The waiting is the worst. Arlene

Catie B  The waiting really is tough, Arlene. I'm sorry your activity is so restricted. Hope you get a good report with your cath next week. Don't hesitate to write about your journey and fears and ask questions on your journal page. People here are kind and caring.