Ben's Journal

Hi everyone,

I'm about two weeks post-op and making some progress. I was discharged last Monday (2/27). I had a great deal of pain and discomfort last week from the overall procedure as well as the additional drainage tube insertion site. I worked hard on my breathing, walking, and trying to get some nutrition in my body. It also took some time trying to find comfortable sleeping spots and adjust to life back home, but I'm grateful to see my wife and kids (and dogs/cats) and recover in my own space.
 
I had my first post-op follow-up today and the doctor is pleased with how things look. My heart rate is still a bit high and my BP is somewhat inconsistent but these are all part of the healing process. I'm also dealing with some additional palpitations that just come out of the blue. I'm not sure if those are just additional signs of my heart and vascular systems adjusting to my "new" heart. 

I've been to the coumadin clinic a couple of times and we're working on my levels which I know could take months to really nail down.

Overall I'm feeling positive about everything. I'm not going to sugarcoat it, It was a really painful and traumatic experience, but I'm glad I moved forward with the surgery and I'm looking forward to ensuring I protect this investment by staying active and eating healthy, and doing my best just to enjoy life.


Photo: 2/27/23 First day home

Hello everyone! Quick update.


I had surgery on Wednesday to repair the aortic aneurysm and bicuspid valve (replaced with an OnX valve. Surgery went really well but I had some additional bleeding so they had to take me back in address those issues. 


I was in a great deal of pain on Thursday and Friday but I’m feeling better today and they’re planning discharge tomorrow. My wife and family have been troopers through this experience. I’m so grateful for the expertise and healing hands of amazing doctors and medical staff.

I met with my surgeon today and scheduled my surgery for 2/22/23. I had an echo and cath done earlier this month and my arteries are clear so I'm grateful for that. I'll be moving forward with the On-X mechanical valve and fixing the ascending aorta. It's pretty scary, but I'm optimistic about finally moving forward toward fixing this problem.