Dana's Journal

Clare Auten  I didn't have time to "nest". Lol. Only 10 days from diagnosis to OR. I do have an ON-X valve. They keep my INR pretty low so not too much bruising. I am almost at 3 and a half years post op.

Sue Sanchez Grela  Dana I was all about nesting in preparation for what I thought I wouldn't be able to do, including grocery shopping! It kept me busy and my mind focused on a successful recovery! Praying for the best for you ❤

Noreen Kitchen  That's what I did too. Got as much ready as I could before. Made me feel like I still had some control.

Civita Fahey  My surgery is 4/24, I guess I am nesting. I'm getting ready to switch my winter to spring clothes and cleaning my oven and fridge, and other things.. so I guess its normal.. I guess as Noreen says its control., I don't like losing it.. sometimes too much time before surgery is not good.. prayers all goes well.

Civita Fahey  Same thing, my husband.. he is so caring and I know that he is scared too but always tells me its going to be ok.. he tries to keep me busy when we aren't working tries to make me laugh.. my family is also supportive and co workers, but I think this group has help me tremendously.. when one knows what you're feeling they can understand.. others try to and say 'its all going to be ok.. dont worry etc." I know they mean well, but at times I want to say " how do you know that?" there are risks ya know? its open heart surgery!" then I feel horrible because I know they are trying to make me feel better..whoever the support system is, I know I try to make sure I say. if I lash out its not personal..I'm a bit anxy right now.. they all understand.. and I'm thankful for them.. and to all in this group..

Civita Fahey  do you have a date yet? I'm on 4/24.. and its one month from today.. the anxiety is setting in.. Im trying really hard not to think about it, but its just the way I am.. I obsess.. I should have it just scheduled it when they said its time, though they said 3-6 months is ok. but it was near Christmas and the winters here in New England are horrible.. i didn't want to be stuck in the house and not be able to walk outside..so, I chose the spring but it gave me too much time to "think:"

Ben Hyman  My sugnificant other. I'm not married but we've been together for almost 7 years. My surgery was 3/15 and she's been with me every step of the way

Arif Butt  Dana, you are in the right path, family and friends will see you through this ordeal. It only gets better once to you get in the road to full recovery.

Steven A Husted  it does get better and yes i know the feeling of every one telling you it will be alright when you are scared to death of ohs

Barbara Wood  I'm very lucky to have a "rock" too...he stands by me even when I wallow in it, reminds me it's not my first rodeo & I'll be fine & I always believe him! Nice post Dana, & I like how you married him when you were 5:)

  Was that your last pre-op test? Is your date set for sure or is the 4 to 6 weeks in your last post an estimate ? I hope they are giving you some answers and straight talk. I find that if I don't ask a bazillion questions I was pretty much left in the dark. I feel bad for you as I know how the anticipation and anxiety can eat you up when waiting to get this done. Good Luck and Bless You Dana

Marie Myers  And always have someone with you during your appointments. It is hard to remember all the info that is given out, and your "wingman" may ask other questions that can really shed light on things.

Dana Betts  I met with the surgeon on 4/3. Hoping to get a lot of questions answered and a surgery date. My husband will be with me. Thanks for the advice.

Barbara Wood  Congrats on the clear arteries, not needing bypass will make it much easier. Make a big list of questions, they won't mind at all & have your husband compile a list too. Best wishes!

Civita Fahey  I'm right there with you. 6 weeks to go. This community is a great place to vent our stress lots of support

Phyllis Petersen  Welcome to the community! When you're ready to get this done, it's hard to wait, especially since the doctors tell you that it needs to be soon, but then the testing, etc. takes forever. I found out that my mitral valve regurg was severe in January, but didn't get into surgery until October. It put my life on hold. You'll find a lot of information and support on this site.

Ben Hyman  I know exactly how you feel. I scheduled my surgery two months ago and just had it done on Wednesday. So glad it's over. Now let the healing begin. The waiting and anticipation is truly the worst part. You will do great