Feb 13th...Engraved on my heart forever!!
One year anniversary for me today! What a year it has been. Heart surgery, Trip to Europe followed by another surgery(Hysterectomy) ...Read more
Feb 13th...Engraved on my heart forever!!
One year anniversary for me today! What a year it has been. Heart surgery, Trip to Europe followed by another surgery(Hysterectomy) and then a trip to India to wed my son to a beautiful Indian girl. If somebody had asked me on Feb 12 that I would be capable of doing all these things in one year , I would have laughed at them.
Yup, somehow I managed and I am a stronger person because of these trials. God was on my side the whole time and I am forever grateful for these experiences.
For those facing OHS, my advise to you is to have faith and be strong. It will all work out at the end. I know...I know....easier said than done. Please try to calm your nervous and believe in the higher Power. Do you homework and research and trust your doctors. It is going to be ok at the end. Good luck to all!!
Love the engraving on my heart.....Feb 13th, 2018
Fay Kozas Helen, great post! You are an inspiration. Stay strong and "follow your heart".
Fatema Yaqubi Nice to hear from you Helen, I’m glad you’re doing great.
Our surgery was at the same day and I c ... Read more
Fatema Yaqubi Nice to hear from you Helen, I’m glad you’re doing great.
Our surgery was at the same day and I can’t believe it is already one year past. God is great 🙂
I am seven months post op for MVR and just had a another major surgery , Hysterectomy. Going into this surgery I was really nervous and scared even though ...Read more
I am seven months post op for MVR and just had a another major surgery , Hysterectomy. Going into this surgery I was really nervous and scared even though I got the clearance from my Cardiologist, I was still nervous.
Minutes before I was rolled into the operating room, my heart was racing so fast that the nurse was alarming the doctors and they checked and ruled that it was nerves. That was a scary moment for sure.
I think God every single day for the chances he has given me. It has been a tough year and I feel all of your pain my fellow heart friends, but have faith and trust that everything will work out for you too.
Good luck to all!!
Louanna Miller Thinking of you and praying for a full recovery.
Susan Lynn Helen - Wishing you a speedy recovery! You're stronger than you think! You've got this, too. ❤
LINDA ROBERTS Hope your recovery goes well after your hysterectomy. Sorry you had to go through another surgery.
Julie Guillaumin Hi. How are you after surgery? I am scheduled for a hysterectomy next week and I'm freaking out! Hopi ... Read more
Julie Guillaumin Hi. How are you after surgery? I am scheduled for a hysterectomy next week and I'm freaking out! Hoping to maybe get some advice from you. :)
Seven months ago I went under the knife for MVR feeling nervous, tired and very depressed. Here I am 7 months later and feeling great. Even though I am going ...Read more
Seven months ago I went under the knife for MVR feeling nervous, tired and very depressed. Here I am 7 months later and feeling great. Even though I am going for a second surgery for hysterectomy in Sept, I feel that my OHR has prepared well. I no longer wonder about pain, recovery and the "what ifs". I think this surgery made me a stronger person and it also made me realize that we have to trust these doctors that go through an immense education and training. For those facing surgeries soon, have faith and trust your doctors.
Anna Jones Hi Helen, a friend of mine had a hysterectomy very recently. It was minimally invasive. She said sh ... Read more
Anna Jones Hi Helen, a friend of mine had a hysterectomy very recently. It was minimally invasive. She said she never had any pain at all. She said she never took any medication for pain. She said that she was released from the hospital after 1 day, and that she was back at workvery quickly, and was even given permission to return to her exercise routine within weeks. I wish you an easy surgery and recovery.
LINDA ROBERTS Sorry to hear you have to go through a surgery for an hysterectomy so close to having heart surgery j ... Read more
LINDA ROBERTS Sorry to hear you have to go through a surgery for an hysterectomy so close to having heart surgery just 7 months ago. With your positive attitude, you will do great. Thanks for the words of encouragement about heart surgery.
Hard to believe it has been 6 months since my MVR. For most part, I have recovered fairly well. I still have some days where I feel very tired and just want ...Read more
Hard to believe it has been 6 months since my MVR. For most part, I have recovered fairly well. I still have some days where I feel very tired and just want to rest. Heart is till sometimes racing, but nothing crazy.
I am scheduled to have another surgery on Sept 18th for a total hysterectomy and, as you can imagine, I am thrilled. Not what I had hoped for turning 50.
2018 has been a rough year for me and cant wait to put it behind me. I never thought in a million years that I would face two huge surgeries in one year, but here I am. I hope this one goes as smoothly as my OHS
For now, I will think of myself as The Little Engine That Could
"I--think--I--can, I--think--I--can."
I booked a trip for my husband and I to Europe next month and really looking forward to it. Most of my life I was busy taking care of my boys and their education and now I feel it is our time to enjoy life.
Rose Madura Helen, congratulations on your 6 month anniversary. You are doing the right things. Enjoy life!
Susan Killian It is good to hear you are doing well, but sorry you need another surgery. Enjoy Europe. Take care ... Read more
Susan Killian It is good to hear you are doing well, but sorry you need another surgery. Enjoy Europe. Take care of yourself!
Gina Fiorentino Helen, It is good to hear your health update. I cannot believe it has been 6 months for you. So glad ... Read more
Gina Fiorentino Helen, It is good to hear your health update. I cannot believe it has been 6 months for you. So glad to hear your doing well.
I do wish you well on your next surgery... I turned 50 this year as well, and it really makes you think about what is important in life. Thinking of you...
Susan Lynn Helen - Congratulations on your 6 month anniversary! Sorry to hear that you have another surgery com ... Read more
Susan Lynn Helen - Congratulations on your 6 month anniversary! Sorry to hear that you have another surgery coming up, but it's one that you can put behind you when it's over. Thank heaven for medical advancements - you'll get through it with flying colors! Enjoy your trip to Europe! There are many more adventures ahead of you!
Just want to alert people about something that many of us don't know, well, at least I did not know.
I went for an hour walk yesterday and it was 85 degrees ...Read more
Just want to alert people about something that many of us don't know, well, at least I did not know.
I went for an hour walk yesterday and it was 85 degrees outside. That was a huge mistake. My heart rate was so high the entire day which scared me a lot. Please be careful outside when it is too hot or too cold. I am 4 months post op and was feeling great and this walk made me realize that I am still healing.
Anita Edmonds Thanks for posting, good to know here in AZ with 112+ degrees.
Jennifer John Yes, we’ve had a similar heat wave here in southeast Michigan, nearly hitting 100 yesterday. I stay ... Read more
Jennifer John Yes, we’ve had a similar heat wave here in southeast Michigan, nearly hitting 100 yesterday. I stayed inside today and walked from room to room, counting dust bunnies!🤗
Kathy Blank I had some issues when I tried exercising in the heat within 4-5 months post op. I had to stay on top ... Read more
Kathy Blank I had some issues when I tried exercising in the heat within 4-5 months post op. I had to stay on top of hydration and exercise in air conditioning. This year, I am much more tolerant to heat, but be careful out there to all my heart brothers and sisters! Good reminder Helen!
Bobbi Alford The heat can take the starch right out of you, that's for sure! Thanks, Helen for the reminder.
Ivana Okereke Thanks for posting. I am only a week post-op and somehow I thought it was a good idea to walk through ... Read more
Ivana Okereke Thanks for posting. I am only a week post-op and somehow I thought it was a good idea to walk through Central Park in 90+ degree weather and then around NYC for hours! I felt so exhausted, I didn't measure my heart rate, I am scared to even think what it was. I will definitely take it easier today and until this heat and humidity subside.
Has any one here had a surgery 4 months after the OHS? I was told today that I need a hysterectomy ASAP. I am not sure if I am mentally ready and not sure ...Read more
Has any one here had a surgery 4 months after the OHS? I was told today that I need a hysterectomy ASAP. I am not sure if I am mentally ready and not sure if my heart can handle it since it is still trying to recover. Can somebody here help to ease my anxiety?
Mark Wilbur Whoa! Very sorry that you're facing another surgery so soon. Perhaps a call to your cardiologist wi ... Read more
Mark Wilbur Whoa! Very sorry that you're facing another surgery so soon. Perhaps a call to your cardiologist will help alleviate any worries about what this surgery means for your heart and its recovery. And consider that, in your case, "asap" might mean more time to heal from your heart surgery... perhaps another couple of months, anyway. We will keep you in our prayers, Helen.
Catie B Helen, my heart goes out to you very much! I don't know your answer, but I understand. A gyn said I ... Read more
Catie B Helen, my heart goes out to you very much! I don't know your answer, but I understand. A gyn said I needed a hysterectomy last year (11 mos after my OHS) and it freaked me out. When I got a second opinion, in my case the surgery was averted. As Mark said, it sounds wise to check with your cardiologist about this and also to ensure whether this truly is a gynecological emergency. Also, I'm a believer in 2nd opinions whenever a surgery is proposed. Input from another gynecologist might be valuable, even if his/her opinion is the same.
Phyllis Petersen How awful for you! And for you Catie to have had a similar shock so soon after surgery. I pray that y ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen How awful for you! And for you Catie to have had a similar shock so soon after surgery. I pray that you find the guidance you need and that whatever happens you are well and can heal fully.
Helen Daw I called my cardiologist right away since I need the clearance for the surgery. I’m waiting for him ... Read more
Helen Daw I called my cardiologist right away since I need the clearance for the surgery. I’m waiting for him to call me back.
Nancy Surprenant Takahashi Wow Helen, so sorry. I think the emotional part will be the most difficult. I had my hysto 3 yrs ago, within 12 weeks I was told I needed to have my gallbladder out, then OHS just shy of 3 yrs. All the surgery can do a number on your head, it did me. To help me feel better my GP told me that I was getting it all out of the way. Try to look at it this way. I know from experience it's difficult to stay positive but if you have to you can do this. Sometimes I just feel like the wheels are falling off my cart. Best of luck, maybe you won't need to go there.
Bobbi Alford Whoa! That's a double-whammy! I'm hoping that you'll get some good answers once you discuss this wi ... Read more
Bobbi Alford Whoa! That's a double-whammy! I'm hoping that you'll get some good answers once you discuss this with your cardiologist. Sending hugs.
Helen Daw So my cardiologist called me tonight and he did not clear me for the surgery this month. He wants to ... Read more
Helen Daw So my cardiologist called me tonight and he did not clear me for the surgery this month. He wants to wait at least 6 months. I am scheduled for an MRI of the abdomen and pelvic to rule out anything serious. If all comes back good, I can have my surgery in Sept. Keeping my fingers crossed along with some prayers.
Kathy Blank Prayers for you Helen! I hope there is nothing serious and that you can wait until September without ... Read more
Kathy Blank Prayers for you Helen! I hope there is nothing serious and that you can wait until September without any worries!
Rita Savelis I'm glad that you will have some more time before surgery. I think physically one is more ready than ... Read more
Rita Savelis I'm glad that you will have some more time before surgery. I think physically one is more ready than one is emotionally. Sometimes it's just too much. It's okay to say that you need to wait. Thank you cardiologist for understanding that.
I started Cardiac Rehab today. I feel I am beyond what they have me doing, but I like the part where they are monitoring my heart. I was able to do 10 minutes ...Read more
I started Cardiac Rehab today. I feel I am beyond what they have me doing, but I like the part where they are monitoring my heart. I was able to do 10 minutes each on the threadmill , bike and arm bike. I will be increasing the intensity every week while being monitored. I am also scheduled to see a nutritionist next week to help me lose weight. Hey , what the heck, it’s all paid for by the insurance and I might as well take advantage of it. Getting on the road for a healthy lifestyle and you can’t put a price on that.
Gina Fiorentino Good for you Helen. A healthy lifestyle is priceless!
Anna Jones Best wishes for ease in losing weight, and great news that you are beyond what cardiac rehab is havin ... Read more
Anna Jones Best wishes for ease in losing weight, and great news that you are beyond what cardiac rehab is having you do.
Susan Killian I am hoping they order me cardiac rehab, I know it is probably in my head but when my heart starts be ... Read more
Susan Killian I am hoping they order me cardiac rehab, I know it is probably in my head but when my heart starts beating fast and I get short of breath I get scared. I will go in on the 15th for my f/u, they will do a chest x-ray and trans thoracic echo then. I really can't wait to start cardio rehab.
Susan Lynn I highly recommend cardiac rehab. Wish I started sooner - great staff and wonderful participants. ... Read more
Susan Lynn I highly recommend cardiac rehab. Wish I started sooner - great staff and wonderful participants. Best of luck with your sessions!
I just came back from an hour hike in the beautiful Ramapo mountain in northern part of NJ. I was a little out of breath on the hills, but not bothered by it. ...Read more
I just came back from an hour hike in the beautiful Ramapo mountain in northern part of NJ. I was a little out of breath on the hills, but not bothered by it. I can't believe it has been exactly 2 months today and still cannot believe this monstrous operation is behind me. After all the years of worries and many, many sleepless night, it is finally done. For all those facing OHS, I wish you nothing but the best results. I hope you have the same recovery as I did. I think at this point I can say I can move on with my life without any concerns, but keeping my fingers crossed. I want to thank this community for all the support I got. You guys are a bunch of great people that care and so glad I found this site. Thank you Adam for it from the bottom of my heart. Only a community like this can truly understand the true feeling of each one of us during the ups and downs of heart disease.
Lilly Black So amazing to experience such gratitude, isn’t it? The miracle of a great recovery..... I’m happy ... Read more
Lilly Black So amazing to experience such gratitude, isn’t it? The miracle of a great recovery..... I’m happy for you! I remember feeling the same. I cherish those moments and I go back in my mind when I meditate. Hiking and walking helped me recover quickly! Enjoy and keep going strong taking one day at a time ✌️😊
Phyllis Petersen Wow! You're really moving along. There's nothing like the feeling that you are reclaiming your life. ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen Wow! You're really moving along. There's nothing like the feeling that you are reclaiming your life. You go girl!
Had a follow up with the fellow Dr at Mount Sinai on last Wednesday. I was a little disappointed that I did not get to see any of my Surgeons, Dr Adams and ...Read more
Had a follow up with the fellow Dr at Mount Sinai on last Wednesday. I was a little disappointed that I did not get to see any of my Surgeons, Dr Adams and Dr Pawale. Everything went well and they said I was doing great. I went to my cardiologist yesterday since my heart beats are still too high. He put me on Metoprolol Extended Release 25 mg which I will take at night to prevent dizziness during the day. I have been walking everyday for the past 10 days for 2.5 to 3 miles a day. Who ever thought that OHS would be so easy. The fear and anxiety for the past 3 years took a toll on me which caused me to be very depressed. Now, I am loving life again and planning a big trip in August after I get the ok from my cardiologist next month. For those with up coming surgeries, I wish you the best and you can do it.
Bonnie Stone-Hope Hello Helen,
Glad to know everything is going well for you.
Have fun planning your trip.
Deb Lewis I love your perspective and honesty in allowing yourself to see the silver lining in this!
Kathy Blank Great news Helen! I figure the surgeons need to spend more time doing life saving surgery so their st ... Read more
Kathy Blank Great news Helen! I figure the surgeons need to spend more time doing life saving surgery so their staff helps follow up with the post op patients. Good luck with heart rate elevation- it takes awhile to go back down to normal!
Carmel Power Hi Helen. You are doing amazingly well! I’m six weeks post mitral valve surgery and I am booked to ... Read more
Carmel Power Hi Helen. You are doing amazingly well! I’m six weeks post mitral valve surgery and I am booked to go to Italy and Spain in June. I am going even if I am wheeled onto the plane! All the best with your holiday plans. I too am on medication for my heartbeat but hoping to reduce when I see my cardiologist nest week. C
Today I took my first nap ever since I can remember.. I think I pushed myself a little too much. Went for an hour walk in the morning outside( it was 30 degrees) ...Read more
Today I took my first nap ever since I can remember.. I think I pushed myself a little too much. Went for an hour walk in the morning outside( it was 30 degrees) then came home showered and went to church. Stopped in the supermarket for grocery shopping then came home to cook followed by cleaning up. I felt like I ran a marathon and crashed on the couch for 1 1/2 hour nap. Is that too much to do for 4 1/2 weeks after surgery??
Phyllis Petersen Wow! I would have been pretty exhausted after all that.
Bonnie Stone-Hope That is quite a day! You may feel very tired tomorrow. My experience is that if I had pushed myself ... Read more
Bonnie Stone-Hope That is quite a day! You may feel very tired tomorrow. My experience is that if I had pushed myself one day, the next day I had to do much less. Of course, everyone's fitness level is different, so might not be the case for you.
Sonia M Walking is great, however when in comes to house work or shopping be careful you don’t pick up anyt ... Read more
Sonia M Walking is great, however when in comes to house work or shopping be careful you don’t pick up anything too heavy specially this soon after your surgery. All the best.
Susan Killian Just listen to your body, no sense in hurrying through it!
Michael Neverisky The cold temperatures take more out of us. And, yeah, naps rock.
Kathy Blank I remember one day I slept for 8 hours during the day and woke up to eat and slept a full night sleep ... Read more
Kathy Blank I remember one day I slept for 8 hours during the day and woke up to eat and slept a full night sleep. I agree with everyone- your body will tell you what is too much! You are doing great Helen!
It is hard to believe that this time last month I was on the operating table for OHS. Feeling great and getting better every day. Follow up with the surgeon ...Read more
It is hard to believe that this time last month I was on the operating table for OHS. Feeling great and getting better every day. Follow up with the surgeon on March 21st to get the ok to start driving. It was a little hard to be dependent on people to drive me around, but thankful for them. All that anxiety, sleepless nights, overthinking everything was unnecessary, but who knew. I'm looking at life in a different lens and have so much more appreciation to life now. For those with upcoming surgeries, all the best to you. You are in good hands.
Gina Fiorentino Helen- you have been an inspiration to me. I agree with you and am experiencing the same. This morn ... Read more
Gina Fiorentino Helen- you have been an inspiration to me. I agree with you and am experiencing the same. This morning I am being released from the hospital - (Day 5 after surgery) and feel well "all things considered". Such a miracle!
The post-surgery recovery thus far has been easier than the pre-surgery anxiety for sure!
Phyllis Petersen Helen and Gina, I'm glad to hear that you are both doing well in your recovery. All the best for a qu ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen Helen and Gina, I'm glad to hear that you are both doing well in your recovery. All the best for a quick return to normal life.
I was recommended to go to Cardiac Rehab after 6 week of surgery, but I am debating it. Can you please tell me about you experiences with Cardiac Rehab? Did ...Read more
I was recommended to go to Cardiac Rehab after 6 week of surgery, but I am debating it. Can you please tell me about you experiences with Cardiac Rehab? Did you find it useful? I have been walking and hiking for 5 years so not sure if I need it.
Steve Farthing Many people find it very helpful and you have interaction with other cardiac patients. Although I ne ... Read more
Steve Farthing Many people find it very helpful and you have interaction with other cardiac patients. Although I never got around to it since I preferred to ride my bicycle on bike trails and it was difficult to schedule both. My cardiologist was fine with that and he was also fine if I had opted to join cardiac rehab. Although under my Medicare plan, I could still sign up anytime within 12 months of the surgery.
Elaine Phares I am going and started 9 days after surgery. I have found it valuable in that they monitor every hear ... Read more
Elaine Phares I am going and started 9 days after surgery. I have found it valuable in that they monitor every heartbeat. I was running, biking, and lifting weights before surgery and I have to admit, it's been hard to go as slow as they want, but I am gaining confidence in this new valve. Unlike Steve, I am in no way ready to ride trails yet. They have me lifting little 4lb weights since for three months I can't lift more than 10 pounds. I have also been impressed with their Continuing Ed classes too.
Lilly Black Walking, swimming and hiking helped me! Using the spirometer several times a day included. I didn’t ... Read more
Lilly Black Walking, swimming and hiking helped me! Using the spirometer several times a day included. I didn’t go to cardiac rehab either. I had no issues or complications and recovery was successful! ✌️😊
Elizabeth Glover I just started this week. I'm used to gym work outs but I'm appalled at the difference between what ... Read more
Elizabeth Glover I just started this week. I'm used to gym work outs but I'm appalled at the difference between what I could do before and what I can do now after surgery. I think it'll be good for me to get back into shape and the interaction with other patients is great.
Kevin Shackelford Frankly I could have done without cardiac rehab...however, I chose CR just to get the confidence to ... Read more
Kevin Shackelford Frankly I could have done without cardiac rehab...however, I chose CR just to get the confidence to push my heart in a controlled environment. Once I finished with CR I started working out at my own gym. Now I am running, lifting weights and even doing fitness boxing. Overall health is better now than before OHS.
Kathy Blank I am an athlete and cardiac rehab made all the difference. I went for a full 12 weeks and still had m ... Read more
Kathy Blank I am an athlete and cardiac rehab made all the difference. I went for a full 12 weeks and still had more recovery to complete past rehab- best way to get back 100%!
Barbara Wood I did 4 weeks hooked up to the monitors, then did 6 weeks at the same facility but not hooked up the ... Read more
Barbara Wood I did 4 weeks hooked up to the monitors, then did 6 weeks at the same facility but not hooked up the ekg leads, then moved on to the regular gym. I was also physically fit but the cardiac rehab program really helped me feel more secure to push myself forward. I recommend it.
Helen Daw Thank you all for your feedback. I'll keep you posted
So hard to believe that 3 weeks have passed since my surgery. Where did the time go?? Today was the first day that I felt very close to normal. Went out for ...Read more
So hard to believe that 3 weeks have passed since my surgery. Where did the time go?? Today was the first day that I felt very close to normal. Went out for most of the day and did not feel too tired. Stopped by my office and they could not believe how good I looked. For some strange reason, I had a lot of energy and did not look tired. I still cannot drive so thank God for the people in my life for driving me around. My chest still feels sore and my blurred vision comes and goes, but is getting better and my mood has been better. If somebody had told me three weeks ago that I will feel this great, I would have never believed them. For those with upcoming surgeries, please don't be scared. You got this and you can do it. All the best to you.
Charlotte Dowd Helen, this sounds so amazing! Thanks for the post. I am 6 weeks out from mine on April 17 and my an ... Read more
Charlotte Dowd Helen, this sounds so amazing! Thanks for the post. I am 6 weeks out from mine on April 17 and my anxiety is rising with each day that passes.
Darlene Smith Helen, glad to hear you are doing well! I had Dr. Adams for my MVR back in July 2016. I loved him a ... Read more
Darlene Smith Helen, glad to hear you are doing well! I had Dr. Adams for my MVR back in July 2016. I loved him and his team. Feels so great to be on the other side!!
So it's been 18 days after my MVR and I'm feeling great. Just finished a 2 mile walk and did it in 35 minutes. Did feel tired a little bit afterwards. Still ...Read more
So it's been 18 days after my MVR and I'm feeling great. Just finished a 2 mile walk and did it in 35 minutes. Did feel tired a little bit afterwards. Still have a little bit of the blurred vision ( hoping that will go away soon). My cardiologist had me do a partial echo this week to rule out any fluids around the heart and that came back good. My mood has been up and down and I do find myself crying more often now than before my surgery and not sure why. Hoping everything will be back to semi normal soon. Blood pressure is 109/76 now and heart rate at around 90. Those with upcoming surgeries this week, you can do it!!
Nancy Surprenant Takahashi Thank you Helen, I'm due in April and wonder if I will have the courage to show up. I would think that as you get stronger and stronger you will not cry. This journey is such a process, no one can understand unless they've been there. Hang in there!
Barbara Wood That sounds like excellent progress! I didn't have the crying jags, but many people have mentioned th ... Read more
Barbara Wood That sounds like excellent progress! I didn't have the crying jags, but many people have mentioned them. Best wishes for the rest of your recovery!
Michael Neverisky Wonderful progress Helen! Hm, I just took a 20 minute walk and didn't think to measure distance. As ... Read more
Michael Neverisky Wonderful progress Helen! Hm, I just took a 20 minute walk and didn't think to measure distance. As instructed, I've been increasing the time every other day.
I agree with the "you can do it" sentiment. The entire experience has been relatively smooth and remarkably pain free (uncomfortable during the tubes and wires phase, yes). Breaking my shoulder a few years ago was a considerably more difficult recovery.
Lise Bowles Helen,
Don’t forget, your body has been through a shock and most of us feel a good deal of anxiety ... Read more
Lise Bowles Helen,
Don’t forget, your body has been through a shock and most of us feel a good deal of anxiety and fear before, during, and after the surgery. Depression is a very common feeling after heart surgery. In addition to that the drugs and painkillers they put us on definitely can jumble our moods. Just be patient and if you feel like it’s hanging on for to long, talk to your doctor. I felt better after starting cardio rehab, not only from the exercise, but also the companionship of other heart patients who were going through a lot of what I was. Sounds like you are on an uphill trend, keep up the good work!
Bonnie Stone-Hope Great progress, Helen. So happy for you. Some days will be better than others, as you recover. Jus ... Read more
Bonnie Stone-Hope Great progress, Helen. So happy for you. Some days will be better than others, as you recover. Just take it one day at a time. It will be fine.
Susan Killian So glad to hear you are able to walk so far already. I to have read depression is normal after cardi ... Read more
Susan Killian So glad to hear you are able to walk so far already. I to have read depression is normal after cardiac surgery. Hope it will pass soon.
Today marks my 2 weeks after surgery. I had my cardiologist appointment this morning and everything seems fine. I still have blurred vision and the DR recommended ...Read more
Today marks my 2 weeks after surgery. I had my cardiologist appointment this morning and everything seems fine. I still have blurred vision and the DR recommended I get an echo just to make sure no fluids around the heart. The echo will be done tomorrow morning. I walked for a mile for the second day and it felt great. Still no meds except a full doze of aspirin a day for now. Sleeping ok at night, but still elevated and on my back. The scar is healing nicely but still very sore. As I was walking I was amazed how far medicine has come in the last 35 years. I remembered when my father had a heart attack and was hospitalized for almost a month. Now looking at my progress, I am just amazed. God bless all the doctors, nurses and anyone in between.
Susan Killian So happy to hear you are doing well. What do they say about the blurred vision?
Helen Daw Sometimes fluid around the heart can cause it. Getting an echo tomorrow to rule that out.
Elaine Phares You have been so supportive and I am glad to hear you are doing well. Each week just gets better! Let ... Read more
Elaine Phares You have been so supportive and I am glad to hear you are doing well. Each week just gets better! Let us know what they say about your vision. Can't believe you are only on aspirin. I am still on blood pressure meds, aspirin, and an iron vitamin.
Kathy Blank Keep up the walking Helen! Sounds like you are doing great!
It has been one full week home and I feel great. Dr took me off all meds since my blood pressure remained too low. NO pain meds not even Tylenol. A little ...Read more
It has been one full week home and I feel great. Dr took me off all meds since my blood pressure remained too low. NO pain meds not even Tylenol. A little sore in the chest but very manageable. Still hard to cough and sneeze. Sleeping very well at night, but I still have to have my head elevated and still sleeping on my back. Scheduled my first app with my cardiologist this week and the follow up with the surgeon next month. I can't really complain here as all going well for me.
So blood pressure dropped to 80/50 this morning. Called the doctor and he took me off Furosemide and lowered the dosage of Metoprotol from 25 mg to 12.5 mg. ...Read more
So blood pressure dropped to 80/50 this morning. Called the doctor and he took me off Furosemide and lowered the dosage of Metoprotol from 25 mg to 12.5 mg. Still a little lightheaded. Anybody else had/has this problem?
Barbara Wood Yes, mine never dropped quite that low, but both medications can do that. Drink lots of water & Gator ... Read more
Barbara Wood Yes, mine never dropped quite that low, but both medications can do that. Drink lots of water & Gatorade, that really does help!
Suzanne Finn Yes, I too had issues with the Metoprotol and needed dosage lowered. Again, being sure to stay hydra ... Read more
Suzanne Finn Yes, I too had issues with the Metoprotol and needed dosage lowered. Again, being sure to stay hydrated is super important and takecare to movefrom sitting or lying down to standing as this too made light headed for a while.
Bob Fessler I had the same thing happen. Very low blood pressure. They took me completely off my 25mg metoproto ... Read more
Bob Fessler I had the same thing happen. Very low blood pressure. They took me completely off my 25mg metoprotol. Did the trick.
Feeling a little lightheaded and little blurred vision. Blood pressure is 100/50. Is this normal?
Bonnie Stone-Hope Hi Helen,
Would be best to call your physician's office to report this. You might want to discuss po ... Read more
Bonnie Stone-Hope Hi Helen,
Would be best to call your physician's office to report this. You might want to discuss potential side effects of your medications with your pharmacist.
Sandy Laine I think so - was for me. Found out later I was anemic - and I was told I could go in for IV fluids o ... Read more
Sandy Laine I think so - was for me. Found out later I was anemic - and I was told I could go in for IV fluids or just keep drinking as much water as I could to try and keep BP up.
Sandy Laine And Bonnie is correct - I called because of it (that's when I was told IV fluids or drink more water) ... Read more
Sandy Laine And Bonnie is correct - I called because of it (that's when I was told IV fluids or drink more water).
Today I wanted to push myself a little bit so I decided to go for a walk outside. I walked for 15 minutes and did 1/2 mile. I was a bit tired toward the end, ...Read more
Today I wanted to push myself a little bit so I decided to go for a walk outside. I walked for 15 minutes and did 1/2 mile. I was a bit tired toward the end, but felt a sense of accomplishment to be able to do it. Baby steps are the way go for now! We can do this my friends one step at a time!!
Fatema Yaqubi Good for you Eelen. I’m trying to walk around the house as much as I can, decided not to go out sid ... Read more
Fatema Yaqubi Good for you Eelen. I’m trying to walk around the house as much as I can, decided not to go out side it is very cold and icy roads here in Vancouver.
Gerald Poulton Good For you Helen, walking and exercise is so important, just make sure you listen to your body and ... Read more
Gerald Poulton Good For you Helen, walking and exercise is so important, just make sure you listen to your body and dont over do it, there is a fine line between doing good and doing harm at your stage. Way to go 👍
Gina Fiorentino Helen, thanks for the update. Glad you had a very good walk today!
Kathy Blank Helen- that is awesome! I enjoyed walking every day to my tolerance during recovery. Great job for on ... Read more
Kathy Blank Helen- that is awesome! I enjoyed walking every day to my tolerance during recovery. Great job for only 7 days!!!!
Michael Neverisky Wonderful! Today I am two weeks post-op and took a 15 minute walk outside yesterday. We had the gift ... Read more
Michael Neverisky Wonderful! Today I am two weeks post-op and took a 15 minute walk outside yesterday. We had the gift of 70° here in New Hampshire... extraordinary for February. Back to 30s today.
I was debating to sleep downstairs on the couch or upstairs in the guest’s bedroom. So I ended up taking half a OxyContin (2.5 had to break the bill in half) ...Read more
I was debating to sleep downstairs on the couch or upstairs in the guest’s bedroom. So I ended up taking half a OxyContin (2.5 had to break the bill in half) spending the first half of the night upstairs and the other half on the couch. The first half was great. The pain woke me up at around 3:30AM. Was very painful to get off bed and down the stairs. I took a couple of Tylenols and headed to the couch. I got some relief and was able to go back to sleep. Just when you think you are done, BAM the pain comes back.
Marie Myers The early days are the roughest... Hope things improve for you every day!
Susan Killian Hang in there, praying for you. Thank you for the update..
Gina Fiorentino Thanks for your post. Wishing you a better night's sleep tonight!
Elaine Phares Helen, nights are the worst time for me. I realized 8 hours in the same place were not going to happe ... Read more
Elaine Phares Helen, nights are the worst time for me. I realized 8 hours in the same place were not going to happen! I didn't even attempt the bed the first couple of nights. Slept in lounge recliner I rented, have tried couch, but never that comfy, bed is best, but I still need to be propped up a bit. Every night is better...this too shall pass.
My view of Central Park In NYC. The park never looked better and it is suppose to snow tomorrow. Can’t wait for that view. Being released on Sunday and keeping ...Read more
My view of Central Park In NYC. The park never looked better and it is suppose to snow tomorrow. Can’t wait for that view. Being released on Sunday and keeping my fingers crossed.
Still in the hospital. Physical therapy starts today. Ate some fruits for dinner and breakfast to help with constipation. Only on Tylenol now but might need ...Read more
Still in the hospital. Physical therapy starts today. Ate some fruits for dinner and breakfast to help with constipation. Only on Tylenol now but might need something stronger when I walk. Pain is manageable right now. You guys can do this!
Steve Salvador remembered my Dr. mentioned, every day you will get better !!
Michael Neverisky Tylenol is all the pain relief I have found necessary. Surgery was last Thursday. It is surprising ho ... Read more
Michael Neverisky Tylenol is all the pain relief I have found necessary. Surgery was last Thursday. It is surprising how much this does NOT hurt.
Nancy Surprenant Takahashi You guys are amazing! Thank you so much for sharing, my surgery is down the road and you make this journey much easier. Thank you.
Michael Zernell I was only on pain meds for the first day after I got off the heart lung machine, Now (31days later)I ... Read more
Michael Zernell I was only on pain meds for the first day after I got off the heart lung machine, Now (31days later)I am still totally free of any unmanageable pain. I thought that it would be a lot of pain, thank god i was wrong.
Catherine Gilstrap You people are helping so much. I see surgeon on May 10 for mitral valve replacement. Keep all the po ... Read more
Catherine Gilstrap You people are helping so much. I see surgeon on May 10 for mitral valve replacement. Keep all the positive thoughts up
All is good for me. Still in ICU with little pain. Sat, walked and ate already. The wait was harder than the surgery. For those with upcoming surgeries, don’t ...Read more
All is good for me. Still in ICU with little pain. Sat, walked and ate already. The wait was harder than the surgery. For those with upcoming surgeries, don’t be scared. The thought is really scarier than the process. I’ll ost more when I’m a little stronger.
Gina Fiorentino Helen! Your amazing! So happy and encouraged to read your first post.
Tomorrow is the big day!! I am surprised how calm I am today. Went out for most of the day. House is prepped, laundry is done and my bag is packed. We have ...Read more
Tomorrow is the big day!! I am surprised how calm I am today. Went out for most of the day. House is prepped, laundry is done and my bag is packed. We have to be in the hospital at 6:00 Am and surgery will start at about 8:30 AM. If I don't post anything tomorrow morning, good luck to those being operated on this week and see you on the recovery side.
Marie Myers Best wishes for a smooth surgery and recovery! Sounds like you are ready and in the right frame of m ... Read more
Marie Myers Best wishes for a smooth surgery and recovery! Sounds like you are ready and in the right frame of mind... Good for you!!
Annie Tyndall I hope everything goes smoothly for you. Please keep us posted.
Susan Roberts Sending healing thoughts your way. See you on the recovery side!
Susan Killian Sending prayers and thoughts your way!
Kathy Blank Looking forward to hearing about your full recovery!
Gina Fiorentino Helen, I hope all goes very smoothly for you tomorrow. Looking forward to your first post-surgery po ... Read more
Gina Fiorentino Helen, I hope all goes very smoothly for you tomorrow. Looking forward to your first post-surgery post!
Debra Langford Prayers for a successful surgery and speedy recovery. Mine is the 15th, we must keep in touch!
I started my day by hiking for an hour with my friends. It amazes me how good I feel yet I am scheduled for an open heart surgery on the 13th. I went to work ...Read more
I started my day by hiking for an hour with my friends. It amazes me how good I feel yet I am scheduled for an open heart surgery on the 13th. I went to work to wrap things up and was greeted with a lot of smiles and well wishes. My 23 year old is not handling it well and I am stressed for me and him. My older son is a doctor and he assured his brother that these kinds of surgeries are very common now, but I don't think that worked. I have been reading a lot of your stories and I feel blessed that my condition is not as bad as some of you. I'll keep all of you in my prayers. We are in it together. Good luck to all of us!!
Mark Wilbur You sound very positive and upbeat! Have your 23 year old read the comments on this website and mayb ... Read more
Mark Wilbur You sound very positive and upbeat! Have your 23 year old read the comments on this website and maybe that will help him understand that many people have successfully undergone heart valve surgery. While it's rough for a while, it's better in the long run. Plus, you will be in very experienced hands at one of the finest hospitals in the country. Best wishes for a great outcome!
Helen, My 27 year old son was more anxious than I was. I believe that his anxiousness helped me remai ... Read more
Helen, My 27 year old son was more anxious than I was. I believe that his anxiousness helped me remain somewhat stronger and able to get through it. We laugh about it now, but he tells me he could just look at me some times days before the surgery and I would start boohooing and then laughing within a 3 minute timeframe. In the end, we just reminded each other that these great surgeons do this every day. Best wishes for a successful surgery and recovery. Will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Regards,
Karen
Fatema Yaqubi Hellen, we will have the surgery on the same day, good luck to us I’m sure we can do this🙂
Helen Daw Fatema, I know. I will try to update my journal when I can, please try to do the same. And I'll keep ... Read more
Helen Daw Fatema, I know. I will try to update my journal when I can, please try to do the same. And I'll keep you in my prayers and I ask that to please do the same for me. Good luck!!
Bonnie Stone-Hope Hello Helen,
I also found it very strange to be told OHS was necessary when feeling so well. Life is ... Read more
Bonnie Stone-Hope Hello Helen,
I also found it very strange to be told OHS was necessary when feeling so well. Life is full of surprises. Looking forward to reading your posts after surgery. Best wishes coming your way, you can do this.
Susan Killian Thank you for your comments on my story. I will keep you in my prayers and will be thinking of you a ... Read more
Susan Killian Thank you for your comments on my story. I will keep you in my prayers and will be thinking of you at my appointment tomorrow!
Just walked along the side of Central Park in NYC to get to my pre op testing appointment. Currently, it is snowing here in the city. . Arrived to Mount Sinai ...Read more
Just walked along the side of Central Park in NYC to get to my pre op testing appointment. Currently, it is snowing here in the city. . Arrived to Mount Sinai and filled all the paperwork and one of them was the proxy form. I cried a little as I was filling it out. Never ever in my life thought I’ll be doing this.
Marie Myers Helen- That is exactly how I felt. Never in my life did I think I would have open heart surgery!! Bu ... Read more
Marie Myers Helen- That is exactly how I felt. Never in my life did I think I would have open heart surgery!! But you WILL get through this. All the best to you in your journey!
Patrick Loy Hi Helen - had the tears my self - when myself and my wife ruth came out of the cardiologist office f ... Read more
Patrick Loy Hi Helen - had the tears my self - when myself and my wife ruth came out of the cardiologist office first time - it was tears all the way - You will be doing the walk in central park another day with this all behind you - stay present and you will be just fine.
Michael Neverisky Snowing here in New Hampshire, Helen. My surgery tomorrow came as a shock to me too, but Patrick has ... Read more
Michael Neverisky Snowing here in New Hampshire, Helen. My surgery tomorrow came as a shock to me too, but Patrick has the key. Stay present, acknowledge those thoughts then let them go.
Bonnie Stone-Hope Hello Helen,
Yes, open heart surgery was not on my "bucket list" either but you will be able to deal ... Read more
Bonnie Stone-Hope Hello Helen,
Yes, open heart surgery was not on my "bucket list" either but you will be able to deal with this, and be very proud of yourself afterwards.
Best wishes, hugs, and prayers for your upcoming surgery and an easy recovery.
Kathy Blank Helen- exactly one year ago was my night before surgery. In the 6 months since I was told surgery was ... Read more
Kathy Blank Helen- exactly one year ago was my night before surgery. In the 6 months since I was told surgery was inevitable- it took me 2-3 months to take a proactive approach and research and read anything I could! Looking back I found comfort by focusing on the skills of my surgeon and the medical advances that has made MV Repair possible. Stay positive- stay focused on your strength and courage and you will soon be inspiring others with your progress!!!
I am nervous as hell. Ran a red light today for the first time in my life. Cannot get this stupid surgery out of my head. I cry as I am driving, talking about ...Read more
I am nervous as hell. Ran a red light today for the first time in my life. Cannot get this stupid surgery out of my head. I cry as I am driving, talking about my surgery and even in the shower. Doctor recommended Xanax , but I refused it. Seven more days to go
Toni Z Hi, trust in your doctors and their team. It was not as bad I thought. Take it day by day and you’ ... Read more
Toni Z Hi, trust in your doctors and their team. It was not as bad I thought. Take it day by day and you’ll be okay.. ☺️
Michael Cline Think about how good you will feel after it's done and you have recovered.
Phyllis Petersen Welcome to the community! You're having your surgery with a very experienced surgeon at a good facili ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen Welcome to the community! You're having your surgery with a very experienced surgeon at a good facility. The stats are on your side! There are a lot of people on here who had your surgeon and reading through their journals can give you great insights into what you need to know that they may not know to tell you. You'll also find tons of people who had their mitral valve repaired successfully and are now living great lives, including me. You're going to be nervous, that's just plain normal. But know that you have an entire community rooting for you.
Meredith Bray That's normal! Or at least, it was for me. I kept feeling like everything I did was the last time...m ... Read more
Meredith Bray That's normal! Or at least, it was for me. I kept feeling like everything I did was the last time...maybe. I wasn't worrying about me - I was worrying about life after me. Every day as soon as I got home, crash on the bed with the pets and bawl my eyes out before anyone else came home.
Let me ask you, what is something you are TOTALLY looking forward to after surgery? We planned a destination family reunion for 4 months post-op. I was so grateful to have something to look forward to.
And let me tell you, you are NOT alone. Everyone deals with their surgery in a different manner, but we're all similar. We're scared, anxious, ready to turn tail and run, ready to get it over with.
It'll be ok, really. My 4-year anniversary is next month, and I'm doing things I never dreamed I'd do. You will too, soon. Only a week til your recovery begins!
-Meredith
Gerald Poulton Hi Helen, I know it is easier to say than do, but I have been there to. This is Not only a necessary ... Read more
Gerald Poulton Hi Helen, I know it is easier to say than do, but I have been there to. This is Not only a necessary thing in your life but it is also the procedure that is going to make you better. Many years ago it would be a very dangerous operation but now it is a well practiced procedure and the morbidity rate is something like 1 % and that includes old out of shape people after a heart attack. For most like me, the operation is surprisingly painless and recovery is more patience than pain. We are all scared but we should really welcome the procedure that saves our lives and repairs our sick body. You are very fortunate that your valve can be repaired, luckier than most ! You will do fine, count your blessings 🙏Welcome your savior and look forward to your recovery and a better, healthier life👍
Marie Myers Why refuse the Xanax? It helped me in my preop anxiety-ridden days...The effect is very subtle, and i ... Read more
Marie Myers Why refuse the Xanax? It helped me in my preop anxiety-ridden days...The effect is very subtle, and if taken at night, can really help you sleep...
Heath Knight Have you tried any rhythmic breathing. Meditation. It helped me. Easy to do. Good luck with everythin ... Read more
Heath Knight Have you tried any rhythmic breathing. Meditation. It helped me. Easy to do. Good luck with everything.
Helen Daw Wow!! Not sure how I missed all your nice and reassuring comments. Thank you all! I do count my bless ... Read more
Helen Daw Wow!! Not sure how I missed all your nice and reassuring comments. Thank you all! I do count my blessings everyday and I do know that I am fortunate to be able to have a repaired valve. If I knew it was going to be this easy, I would have done it sooner. Looking back on this journal, I couldn’t believe how scared and anxious I was. There was no reason for it, but I guess I couldn’t help it. For those going through surgery in the near future, good luck!!
Meredith Bray Scared & anxious? With good reason - there are a lot of unknowns. I felt the same way after surgery, ... Read more
Meredith Bray Scared & anxious? With good reason - there are a lot of unknowns. I felt the same way after surgery, and 4 years later I look back and think, "Phew, I am SO glad it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be!"
Our surgery was at the same day and I c ... Read more
Our surgery was at the same day and I can’t believe it is already one year past. God is great 🙂