Patient Story of Diane Brown

My Story

About Me (In My Own Words)

Guess I should start by saying my beloved husband of 58 years, died July 28,2015. I was diagnosed December 5 and I'm pretty sure some shock and denial along with my grieving put me into a weird overdrive. Florida Hospital exceeded every expectation for amazing care. Dr. Accola is one of the kindest, gentlest, caring souls I've ever encountered. I experienced 0 pain, ergo 0 pain meds. How could that be possible? Not a clue. I followed every direction to the letter. ICU 2 days; Cardiac PCU, 3 days and HOME. No icky rehab center. My daughters were amazing as were friends and Home Health Care. I really needed them first 7 days. And then I told them no one had to stay overnight. Actually, after three days home it was more for their comfort level than mine. Yes, I was very slow, but very able. Just miraculous to me. Re - that overdrive I referred to - I took care of every financial thing I could think of. I also made many home adjustments and accommodations before surgery including a small refrigerator, microwave oven, coffee maker and toaster with simple groceries in my bedroom. Wow - awesome energy and people saver. Living area is downstairs, and I'd moved computer and printer to dining area. Boxes with needed files for a couple of months to coffee table. Made for easy access. Virtually no bending and absolutely no lifting. Laundry was the biggest help I needed and no one minded helping. Whomever came by could toss in a small load. Didn't have a lot of appetite and my daughter convinced me to drink at least one high protein supplement every day. Shocked that I actually liked them! Hope these are some proactive tips that can alleviate someone else's stress level. So grateful to be alive for such amazing medical accomplishments. See my posted X-ray picture. Remarkable. Oh - incision isn't even 3 inches. In a year it will be a small white line. But one I'm really proud of! There truly is a prayer in my heart for each of you who are just facing this. Contact me if I can be of help!