About Me (In My Own Words)
About 9 years ago, my physician detected a heart murmur during a yearly physical. Every year since I have had an echo done by a cardiologist in conjunction with my yearly exam.
I have a miniature wire-haired dachshund that I have been training in agility. Over the winter, it became apparent that I couldn't keep up with her as we ran courses. Thinking this was caused by being out of condition, I decided to walk every day. Most days I would bundle up, grab my iPod and take to US40 as it goes by our property. Walking during Colorado winters isn't always the most pleasant experience but I was determined! After several months, it was becoming clear that my condition wasn't improving.
I started to look on the internet and found Adam's book. Once I read it, I had the courage to face the facts of my murmur. My yearly physical revealed that my situation had indeed worsened and that surgery was in my immediate future.
The cardiologist recommended surgeons in our area but I decided to go to Cleveland. First because my 90 year old mother lives about ten miles from Cleveland Clinic and second, I was determined that if I qualified, I wanted minimally invasive surgery performed by someone who has done the largest number of these procedures. I gathered my records and over-nighted them to CC - attention Dr. Mihaljevic.
I was nervous as the days went by and I hadn't heard from them. Finally, I received a call and could be scheduled for surgery on July 16. I was excited although I can't imagine what there is about getting my chest cut open that made me all giddy! I think it's just that I want it OVER.
I've been studying the journals on Adam's website for many weeks and they have been so informative. Now as I face surgery, I realize that I can contribute some information of my own that just may help someone. I leave for Cleveland on July 12, spend the 13th (my birthday) with my mother and then begin tests on the 14th. On the 15th, I meet with Dr. Mihaljevic and discuss my surgery the next day.
So my next week will consist of assembling an adorable hospital wardrobe, making arrangements for dogs, cats and birds and taking care of all of those details that will make my stay away from home a little less stressful. My most wonderful companion of the past 15 years, Erik, will follow me to CC and arrive on the evening of the 14th. I kind of worry that he will go nuts being stuck in a waiting mode although he can do much of his work away from home on his computer. I'm indeed fortunate that he is willing to take this journey with me!
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Evergreen, Colorado
