Hi everyone! I haven’t posted here in a long time. I had my minimally invasive mitral valve repair surgery back in October of 2015. Everything went well, ...Read more
Hi everyone! I haven’t posted here in a long time. I had my minimally invasive mitral valve repair surgery back in October of 2015. Everything went well, I went to cardiac rehab, and then returned to my job. I went for a visit with my cardiologist every year, and my EKGs and echos were normal. I still had to keep taking my Metoprolol due to several types of irregular heartbeats. I sometimes got winded easily, but, overall, I was doing well. Fast forward to early December of this year when I went in for a stress test. I was expecting the doctor to say that everything was fine, but, instead, he told me that my stress test indicated that I might have a heart blockage. He has scheduled me for a cardiac cath and angiogram in January. I’m writing this because I know that you all understand. I’ll admit that I’m scared and my anxiety level has increased. I had a cardiac cath before my surgery, but that was 9 years ago. Now I’m in my 60’s and I’m afraid about what’s going to happen. I’m asking myself why is this happening to me. I’m sure you have all asked that question. I guess I thought that my surgery would solve all my heart problems. I guess not. I’m asking for prayers, advice, & words of encouragement. Thank you so much! ❤️
Rose Madura Liz, I'm sorry that you have to go through this again - all the uncertainty can raise your anxiety le ... Read more
Rose Madura Liz, I'm sorry that you have to go through this again - all the uncertainty can raise your anxiety level for sure. I haven't had a heart cath since 2017 but now they do most of them in the wrist so it may not be so bad for you. I know it's hard, but try not to assume the worst. God knows all about it and never gives us more than we can bear. God bless you and I'll be praying for you.
Richard Munson Good luck with heart cath. Thru wrist is best if feasible. I noticed you said might be a blockage. Mi ... Read more
Richard Munson Good luck with heart cath. Thru wrist is best if feasible. I noticed you said might be a blockage. Might being the key word. If so, better to know and get fixed. Don’t think a blockage and your successful hvs are related.
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Rose & Richard! I appreciate your kind words, sage advice, and prayers. It mean ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Rose & Richard! I appreciate your kind words, sage advice, and prayers. It means a lot to me!
God is with you through it all. I’m praying for you, and all on this site. 🙏
susan harris i so share same w you that we thought the surgery would fix the heart-it’s a real letdown when you ... Read more
susan harris i so share same w you that we thought the surgery would fix the heart-it’s a real letdown when you realize it’s a lifetime of this, no matter what option you choose! psychologically hard to take!
Two years ago today I had my mitral valve repair surgery. It's hard to believe that it's been that long! I'm so blessed to be here...healthy & whole. Thinking ...Read more
Two years ago today I had my mitral valve repair surgery. It's hard to believe that it's been that long! I'm so blessed to be here...healthy & whole. Thinking back to the day of my surgery & my week in the hospital...it was such a rough time but I made it through...I survived! I'm feeling great & living a normal life. I'm back on metoprolol but that's okay...it keeps my heart rhythm steady which is a good thing. It's scary to go through heart valve surgery but once you make it to the other side you can feel like yourself again...the fear & uncertainty fade into the past. Now I try to live in the present moment & enjoy the fullness of each day. There is life after heart valve surgery & I plan on enjoying every moment!
Adam Pick Whoa! Thanks for sharing Liz! Very powerful! Love hearing about your return to a normal life and y ... Read more
Adam Pick Whoa! Thanks for sharing Liz! Very powerful! Love hearing about your return to a normal life and your appreciation for each new moment that awaits you! Stay healthy & whole! Adam
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Adam!! I want to thank you for this wonderful website & everything that you've done ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Adam!! I want to thank you for this wonderful website & everything that you've done to help heart valve surgery patients & their families. BTW...we have a connection to the University of Michigan...I went to grad school there! Take care & God bless...you're an inspiration to all of us!
Lilly Black Good to hear, Liz! time does go by fast, doesn't it? happy you are doing great!
It's been exactly one year since I was released from the hospital after my successful mitral valve repair surgery. I've been sitting out on the deck enjoying ...Read more
It's been exactly one year since I was released from the hospital after my successful mitral valve repair surgery. I've been sitting out on the deck enjoying this beautiful Fall day (it's 80 degrees here!). I was reading some of my journal entries & I realized that I haven't been on the site in a long time! I want to be a part of this community again so that I can support others who are getting ready to go through the journey that I've been on.
I can't believe that it's been a year since my surgery!! I've been feeling good. Sometimes I get winded easily if I'm walking uphill or going up a flight of stairs but otherwise I'm fine. The only problem I still have is the irregular heartbeats. I thought that would go away after the surgery but it hasn't. I was disappointed when I went to donate blood in June & was rejected because of my irregular pulse (they changed the guidelines). I relayed my disappointment to my husband's cousin (he had heart surgery) & he said that "the very best hearts always have a unique rhythm different from all the other average ones. Your beautiful loving heart is one of the best." That really made me feel better! I went back to my cardiologist in August. He wanted me to wear a heart monitor so, on September 21, I went to the hospital to get a 14-day Zio Patch heart monitor (a thousand times better than the old Holter monitors!). I went back to see Dr. Ridley on Friday. He said that the monitor picked up all sorts of arrhythmias so he's sending me to an electrophysiologist. We'll see how that goes...
Anyway, on this beautiful Fall day, and every day, I'm thanking God for my life & my second chance. I'm so grateful to be alive!!
Lilly Black Liz, congratulations on your 1 yr anniversary. Huge accomplishment! I do hope that your heart irregul ... Read more
Lilly Black Liz, congratulations on your 1 yr anniversary. Huge accomplishment! I do hope that your heart irregularities work themselves out. Do keep us posted. Being grateful is such a wonderful experience! I'm happy for you.....I feel the same. Good luck!
Phyllis Petersen Sorry to hear you're still having issues. I hope they resolve soon and you can complete your recovery ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen Sorry to hear you're still having issues. I hope they resolve soon and you can complete your recovery.
Corey Sines Love what your husband's cousin said about your irregular heart rhythm, tis true! Best wishes..
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Lilly, Phyllis, & Corey for your kind words & well wishes. I'll keep you posted!
Steven A Husted i send you my best wishes and prayers for a smooth recovery in the future i pray the lord will help y ... Read more
Steven A Husted i send you my best wishes and prayers for a smooth recovery in the future i pray the lord will help you thru this journey and give you peace and comfort
Peggy Whitecotton Congratulations on your 1 year post op prayers on your recovery I'm little over 14 months feeling gr ... Read more
Peggy Whitecotton Congratulations on your 1 year post op prayers on your recovery I'm little over 14 months feeling great occasionally, I may get a little winded when I really over do it like walking fast up a steep hill. Then I remember hey, I really did have heart surgery and I realize that I am still recovering. The reason I know that is every month that goes by I feel ever better.
I went for my last cardiac rehab visit on February 24th. I really had mixed feelings. I was so happy & proud of my accomplishment of having completed all 36 ...Read more
I went for my last cardiac rehab visit on February 24th. I really had mixed feelings. I was so happy & proud of my accomplishment of having completed all 36 cardiac rehab visits. I was also sad to say good bye to the CR nurses & all my fellow cardiac patients that I had gotten to know during my time at rehab. Well, we all have to move on to bigger & better things! I've now moved on to exercising and working with a personal trainer at the nearby Center for Health & Fitness. I want to keep up with the progress that I've made so far.
Sophia Ridley Well done! I finished my 1-2-1 rehab sessions last Thursday, I'm going to miss the routine. Got to fi ... Read more
Sophia Ridley Well done! I finished my 1-2-1 rehab sessions last Thursday, I'm going to miss the routine. Got to find a way to ensure I keep it up, bit nervous of just having PT at local gym - any advice?
Wanda Mroz If your rehab place offers cardiac prevent to keep going I'd do it. Mine offered a program at a small ... Read more
Wanda Mroz If your rehab place offers cardiac prevent to keep going I'd do it. Mine offered a program at a small cost to me to continue in the program and I love it.
Liz Burroughs My fitness center is associated with the hospital. They offer a nine week program for cardiac rehab t ... Read more
Liz Burroughs My fitness center is associated with the hospital. They offer a nine week program for cardiac rehab transition called The Healthy Transitions Program. I had an initial assessment & I meet with the personal trainer once a week. I like the program but I don't see any difference between this program & a regular personal training program.
My dad passed away yesterday morning. He was elderly (94 years old) and his death was expected (he was on hospice) but the pain, sadness, & shock is just as ...Read more
My dad passed away yesterday morning. He was elderly (94 years old) and his death was expected (he was on hospice) but the pain, sadness, & shock is just as real. I'm so grateful that my brother, sister, & I were able to spend time with him before his death. My sister & I were there when he passed away. He was a wonderful dad! He was a good provider for our family & always spent quality time with his kids. He was outgoing, funny, & made everyone he met his friend. He loved the outdoors, animals, & music. He loved to play the harmonica & the organ. He was married to my mom for almost 54 years (she passed away in 2008). They had a wonderful marriage & traveled the world together. They enjoyed their retirement at their cottage on Lime Lake (in Northern Michigan) with family & their close group of friends.
I'll miss my dad but I know that he's in a better place...reunited with mom & his other loved ones ...playing the harmonica and enjoying his new life.
Whitney Nelson I'm so sorry, Liz! I work for hospice and know that even though it may be expected it doesn't change ... Read more
Whitney Nelson I'm so sorry, Liz! I work for hospice and know that even though it may be expected it doesn't change the fact that it's your father. I always tell my family's to remember the wonderful 94 years he was here and not those last few weeks on hospice care. Big hugs for you and your family😘
MaryAnne Jardis Hi Liz
We had surgery the same day last October .....I am so sad to hear about your dad. My dad passe ... Read more
MaryAnne Jardis Hi Liz
We had surgery the same day last October .....I am so sad to hear about your dad. My dad passed in February 2012 and not a day goes by that I don't think of him. Just remember even though we are sad to see our dads pass, there is someone waiting for him above that is so happy he made it "home". He is with his loved ones now and I believe someday you will be reunited. God bless and be strong!
Jean Raber I'm so sorry, Liz. My dad died on home hospice, too. It was very peaceful and my mother and I were th ... Read more
Jean Raber I'm so sorry, Liz. My dad died on home hospice, too. It was very peaceful and my mother and I were there at the end. It helped that I was there during his last week. And Whitney, thank you so much for your work with hospice. You will just never know how much you mean to us families.
Enrique K Dear Liz, may your Dad Rest in Peace! Very sorry for your loss. My mom passed away January 18 last ye ... Read more
Enrique K Dear Liz, may your Dad Rest in Peace! Very sorry for your loss. My mom passed away January 18 last year she was 62. I miss her so much each and every day. God Bless his soul!
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much everyone!! Your words are all very comforting & mean the world to me. I'm sorry for ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much everyone!! Your words are all very comforting & mean the world to me. I'm sorry for the loss of your loved ones. I'm going to remember the good life my dad had & all the good times we shared. I'm also grateful for the hospice care that my dad received. I'm going to live each day to the fullest & not waste time complaining or feeling sorry for myself. Life is too short! Thank you again my heart friends! Much love, Liz
Cheryl Shute Walter Liz, I'm very sorry for the loss of your Dad. He and your Mom sounded like they were wonderful peopl ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Liz, I'm very sorry for the loss of your Dad. He and your Mom sounded like they were wonderful people and passed on their love to you.
Friday was a milestone day for me. It's been three months since my surgery. I left cardiac rehab that morning knowing that I was three quarters of the way through ...Read more
Friday was a milestone day for me. It's been three months since my surgery. I left cardiac rehab that morning knowing that I was three quarters of the way through my program. From there I headed to city hall for the city blood drive. I've been donating blood three times a year for at least the past ten years. I was a little anxious that there might be a problem with me donating blood. Two of the questions asked were: "Have you taken any aspirin recently?" and "Have you ever had any heart or lung problems?" I explained my yes answers to the Red Cross worker who sent me on to complete my donation. Everything went fine & I left feeling happy that I could continue to donate. After work that day I went for my echo/cardiology appointment. I was worried that my heart function wouldn't be normal. When Dr. Ridley came in he told me that my echo was completely normal with an ejection fraction of 67%. I'm grateful for all of the progress that I've made & hope to continue to move forward in my new post-surgery life.
I have two questions for my heart friends. First, is anyone still having problems with shortness of breath after surgery? I'm doing really well in cardiac rehab ...Read more
I have two questions for my heart friends. First, is anyone still having problems with shortness of breath after surgery? I'm doing really well in cardiac rehab without any problems. Today I walked up the stairs and when I got to my room I was very short of breath & breathing heavily. It's been eight weeks since my surgery. Second, is anyone having concerns about spouses/family members sort of losing patience about anything to do with heart surgery/recovery? This comment was made to me today: "I'm tired of hearing about your cardiac rehab. You should be completely recovered by now."
W. Carter WOW!!! So you should be fully recovered at 8 weeks. I'm glad in a way that I live by myself, therefor ... Read more
W. Carter WOW!!! So you should be fully recovered at 8 weeks. I'm glad in a way that I live by myself, therefore no criticism about certain things. It took me 6 mo. to feel good, 9 mo. to be almost 100%. And yes it is normal to get out of breath walking a flight of stairs at 8 weeks. It will improve in due time, just use ear plugs until it does. :-)
Regarding the second remark, similar to above, I was told by my cardiologist that I won't feel 100% u ... Read more
Regarding the second remark, similar to above, I was told by my cardiologist that I won't feel 100% until at least 6 months post surgery (if I get to 100%). I am sorry that you have been told this. I felt this way before surgery when people made assumptions about me being "lazy" since I gained weight. I realize now how tired I actually was. Do the best that you can do and don't listen to what others say, especially when they haven't walked in your shoes. Best wishes to you.
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much W. Carter & Laura! I'm going to continue with my cardiac rehab and my recovery. I w ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much W. Carter & Laura! I'm going to continue with my cardiac rehab and my recovery. I won't listen to any negative remarks by others. They will only pull me down & impede my progress. I'm so grateful to have my heart friends!!
Elaine Cutri The second question is way off base. A year or more is more like it for a complete recovery. I know i ... Read more
Elaine Cutri The second question is way off base. A year or more is more like it for a complete recovery. I know it's hard for an observer, but you have been through quite an ordeal, before, during and after surgery. Your sternum is still healing, let alone the soft tissue.
The first question, I have mostly good days, but every now and then I get winded when I don't expect it to happen. I'm not sure what's going on. I have a pacemaker and I'm seeing my cardiologist on Tuesday to tweak it a little. Best wishes!
Wanda Mroz Yes you will feel short of breath after 8 weeks. When I walk the stairs at work, there are 24 steps ... Read more
Wanda Mroz Yes you will feel short of breath after 8 weeks. When I walk the stairs at work, there are 24 steps to the 2nd floor and I'm short of breath after 4 months. If you recover rather quickly you're doing good. No one at work has said that to me yet, but I keep mentioning I'm not 100% until at least 6 months. people that haven't been through this don't understand... So just ignore it and focus on you and getting stronger.
I have heard over and over - one to three years for patients to feel really like themselves again. From patients and cardiologists. This site is invaluable in that we have lived through it, they have not.
I have learned that there are some who do not take the time to understand or gain the wisdom needed to fully understand our situation. Why that is, I am not sure. Ignorance is bliss?
That is a difficult statement to hear, one suggestion is that you ask that person to go on heart valve and read and learn what you are going through before such a statement is made.
YOU ARE DOING GREAT. That is what that person should be saying to you. That is what you need to hear, and you will hear it from us, so keep coming back. :)
Lewis Garlisi Agree with the comments above. Recovery generally starts out pretty fast, but at 8 weeks your far fr ... Read more
Lewis Garlisi Agree with the comments above. Recovery generally starts out pretty fast, but at 8 weeks your far from completely healed. Just keep pacing yourself. In some very small ways, I think I'm still healing at almost 1 year.
Liz Burroughs Thanks, everyone, for your comments, concern, & encouragement. I feel better already! The people who ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thanks, everyone, for your comments, concern, & encouragement. I feel better already! The people who really understand & care are on this website. Thank you so much!!
Terrie Syvertsen Liz- I am seeing that many good answers are coming your way to your questions. I am post-op one year ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Liz- I am seeing that many good answers are coming your way to your questions. I am post-op one year and 4 months and still feel I am healing. I consider this to be the norm for me and many others in that it is MY body healing. My body has encountered a very special opportunity to continue on in this life journey and my opinion is this has been and will continue to be my special adventure and realize that only fellow survivors of this type of surgery can fully understand the experience. I also have found I have no intention of listening to those who have heard enough of my heart story as in the healing process you never know from day to day in these precious months of healing just how your body is going to respond to certain things that were commonplace daily events in our lives prior to surgery. I find that people who aren't interested in the conversation heading in any way towards my surgery are just a bit jealous of all of the great questions and comments others(especially at the gym) have about the surgery itself, and how some know people who are about to have similar surgeries and want to help someone with support and information.
Most people are intelligent enough to realize we have been given a second chance at life and that we have had to work hard for our successes which sometimes garners attention and admiration from others as they witness us begin our exercise regimens and let our bodies build our strengths to continue on. We are getting attention and they are not. They should be supportive and let this natural course of events take place and you should be proud of each and every effort you make to get back to what will become the norm for you no matter how long it takes. Aren't our individual bodies just damn awesome!!!!!! One thing I will also mention is that an old friend of mine who heard of my surgery talked at length about it not long after I returned home from the hospital and since has not phoned much as she just knows that the sound of having a serious surgery made her panicky and fearful as she learned the truths about what it entailed. So for some, maybe it is also that fear of the unknown that we have had to stand up and face.....make peace with....to move on with our lives and we are all stronger and better for it for the most part.
Keep on healing Lady and I wish the Merriest of Christmases and the Happiest of New Years to you and those you love and that your healing days long as last as they are meant to!!!!!
Mary K People say ignorant things for all kinds of reasons. What made this person the expert on valve surger ... Read more
Mary K People say ignorant things for all kinds of reasons. What made this person the expert on valve surgery recovery? I agree with the others here. Recuperation takes time, and do your best to ignore the ignorant comments.
Tim Goff liz, I'm 9 months out now from MV repair and on the whole feel great. Walking up steep hills and stai ... Read more
Tim Goff liz, I'm 9 months out now from MV repair and on the whole feel great. Walking up steep hills and stairs were a challenge out of the gate and continue to be. The cardiologist says it doesn't make sense as I should be fine. All other activities, swimming, rowing machine and bike are no problem, but stairs still get me winded. don't worry- keep working towards good health
Sophia Ridley I think that it's easy for others, especially if they haven't been through surgery, let alone heart s ... Read more
Sophia Ridley I think that it's easy for others, especially if they haven't been through surgery, let alone heart surgery to a) make assumptions that we all have the same symptoms, recover at the same rate and have the same physiology and b) assume that we're all healed as we look well (your pulse can be dancing, and you feel like you're going to faint, which was my case when told today "you look fantastic"!).
I'm sure too a lot has to do with visibility.., If you had your foot in a plaster cast or the scar was very visible then they could see how "ill" you are... And too, it's a sign of frustration that our love ones want us well and are powerless to make this happen.
My husband is attending all appointments which is making him appreciate what I'm going through. I try to do all I can, but then I need to rest. He's doing all the day to day stuff and working so I need to cut him some slack as it's stuff I can't do.
I'm also conscious that my recovery will be longer than some people's attention spans and so actively trying to ensure I divert the chat away once I've updated them and ask more about the other person.
Ginger Marine I guess I'd respond, "Yeah, what a pain I am!" And then go about my life, getting well.
Liz Burroughs Thank you to all my heart family!! You all help me so much & I don't know what I'd do without you!! M ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you to all my heart family!! You all help me so much & I don't know what I'd do without you!! Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, & may we all have a very Happy (and Healthy) New Year!!!
Steven A Husted I THINK YOU SHOULD STAY AWAY FROM NEGATIVITY AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE AND BEING OUT OF BREATH AFTER SURGER ... Read more
Steven A Husted I THINK YOU SHOULD STAY AWAY FROM NEGATIVITY AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE AND BEING OUT OF BREATH AFTER SURGERY I THINK IS NORMAL BUT MY BEING OUT OF BREATH I THINK IS MORE DUE TO MY WEIGHT PROBLEM THAN HEART PROBLEM I THINK TIME IS A HEALER AND IT MAY TAKE TIME TO FEEL BETTER BUT WEIGHT AND AGE ARE A FACTOR IN BEING OUT OF BREATH ESPECIALLY ON STAIRS MAY YOU HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR
Cheryl Shute Walter Wow, I'm sorry you have had negative comments about your surgery. People can be so insensitive, and ... Read more
Cheryl Shute Walter Wow, I'm sorry you have had negative comments about your surgery. People can be so insensitive, and until they have been in your shoes, they will not understand. As far as your heavy breathing goes, it is much harder to climb upstairs than it is to go down or walk on a level surface. Don't be frustrated. We each have our own pace, and as long as you keep trying, you will get better!
I was so anxious about going back to work. My first week was very long and tiring but I think it will take me awhile to adjust. I got to cardiac rehab at 7:00 ...Read more
I was so anxious about going back to work. My first week was very long and tiring but I think it will take me awhile to adjust. I got to cardiac rehab at 7:00 AM on Monday. The door was locked where I usually go in but luckily someone finally came by who was able to show me the other entrance down the hall & around the corner. It's not too bad exercising that early in the morning. I brought my change of clothes for work. As I drove to work I kept thinking "I don't want to go." I wanted to turn around & go home. It seemed so strange being back at work again, especially since they had done some painting/decorating while I was gone and there was a new desk in my office. Everyone was happy to see me & gave me a warm welcome. I had a card & some gifts on my desk when I arrived. I spent the morning getting everything out of my old desk & trying to get rid of a lot of papers,etc. Some of my coworkers came in to move the desks for me & help me get my office in order. The day was long but I made it through the whole day & didn't leave early.
The rest of the week was long & very fast paced but I'm slowly getting into a routine and dealing with the day to day issues of working full-time. The work week ended on Friday with our company Christmas luncheon/in-service at a nearby park conference center. It was nice to see many co-workers that I don't get to see too often. I also got my service award: 25 years with the Commonwealth of Virginia!
After that I went to my cardiology appointment. Dr. Ridley said that I was doing well. I have an appointment to return in March for an echo. I'm hoping that my heart function will have returned to normal.
Well, it's time to get a good night's sleep & get ready for another work week. At least this week will be short for me. We'll be traveling to Blacksburg on Thursday for my son's college graduation! I'm so grateful that I'll be going to his graduation with a mended heart!!
Elaine Cutri Wow, it sounds like you're doing very well. Just remember to allow yourself to have days with lots of ... Read more
Elaine Cutri Wow, it sounds like you're doing very well. Just remember to allow yourself to have days with lots of energy and days with low energy for the next couple of months. I'm 6 months out and there are still a day or two when a nap is calling :-)
Gregg Nissly Liz, congrats on getting through the first work week. I know I'm going to find it hard as well. I h ... Read more
Gregg Nissly Liz, congrats on getting through the first work week. I know I'm going to find it hard as well. I have a side business that I've already been doing a little bit for, but not much. Even though the benefits are more direct to me I still don't have a lot of desire to do even that work.
Anyway, enjoy your short week and your son's graduation.
Liz Burroughs Thanks so much, Elaine & Gregg! I'm off of work now until December 28. I'm really looking forward to ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thanks so much, Elaine & Gregg! I'm off of work now until December 28. I'm really looking forward to the break! My week & a half of work really wore me out!
My last week at home went pretty well. I went out each day for cardiac rehab and/or to run a few errands. I found that after I went to CR and made a few stops ...Read more
My last week at home went pretty well. I went out each day for cardiac rehab and/or to run a few errands. I found that after I went to CR and made a few stops on the way home, I was tired and ready to get home to eat a late lunch & take a nap. This weekend I decorated the house for Christmas. Luckily, my step-son & grandson helped out with the heavy lifting and tree decorating. I found myself feeling very tired and getting some shortness of breath. Time to sit down!
Tomorrow is my first day back at work. I'm feeling a little anxious & depressed about the thought of going back to work. It's going to be a long week for me. I don't know how it's going to go but I need to keep a positive attitude & just take it one day at a time.
Good luck to you tomorrow going back to work. Hope you are able to gradually return and build up stre ... Read more
Good luck to you tomorrow going back to work. Hope you are able to gradually return and build up strength for full days. I imagine your feelings are quite normal, but I hope you find that returning to work is better than expected!
Liz Burroughs Thanks so much, Laura! My first day back was long but I made it through. I'm hoping that each day wil ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thanks so much, Laura! My first day back was long but I made it through. I'm hoping that each day will be better than the day before. Take care. Liz
Last Wednesday I drove to Charlottesville (UVA Medical Center) for my last visit with my surgeon. I was a little concerned about driving by myself but I felt ...Read more
Last Wednesday I drove to Charlottesville (UVA Medical Center) for my last visit with my surgeon. I was a little concerned about driving by myself but I felt fine and I didn't have any problems. I left at 7:00 AM and returned home at 2:00 PM. It was strange to be back at the medical center but I was so glad that I felt so much better than I did the last time I was there! They didn't really do a whole lot at my visit. I did get my return to work form filled out (I wish I could have added a few more weeks to my return date!). Dr. Ailawadi said that most of my numbness should go away except for right on my incision. He also said that my heart function should improve with time. It seems like every time I talk to a doctor I don't ask all the questions that I wanted to ask & I always say a few things that I feel are silly or stupid. Then when I get home I'm thinking "why didn't I say that?" or "why did I say that?" Oh well, it's all in the past now anyway. I need to move on and let it all go. I had my valve repaired and I have a second chance. I need to make the most of what I've been given.
Liz Burroughs Thanks, Doran & Steven! It seems like even when I write down my questions I still don't ask them. Oh ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thanks, Doran & Steven! It seems like even when I write down my questions I still don't ask them. Oh well, live & learn!
Gregg Nissly Liz, glad to hear you are doing so well.
Frances Halley Thanks for your kind word of support. I have an appointment with the surgeon on Wednesday 12/9, but I ... Read more
Frances Halley Thanks for your kind word of support. I have an appointment with the surgeon on Wednesday 12/9, but I hop it isn't a long wait after that to get a surgery date.
Today marks exactly four weeks since my MV repair surgery. I'm feeling much better now and the bruises/scars are fading/healing pretty well. I went to cardiac ...Read more
Today marks exactly four weeks since my MV repair surgery. I'm feeling much better now and the bruises/scars are fading/healing pretty well. I went to cardiac rehab again this morning. I was able to increase my levels on most of the exercise machines. My next goal is to get myself ready to go back to work (in two weeks). I think that I'll probably be ready physically but I'm definitely not ready emotionally. I've gotten used to my quiet routine at home, including getting up in the morning when I want to, and the thought of going back to work depresses me. It's going to be tough but I've made it through a lot so far. I know that I'm stronger than I think I am. I just need to work on my mental preparation.
I'll be driving back to Charlottesville on Wednesday for my last visit with Dr. Ailawadi at UVA. I'm going back there with a mended heart. This will be the last leg of my journey to surgery & it's been quite a journey! My journey to a complete recovery continues...
Gary Stripling Thanks for sharing your journey, Liz. I'm 3-months post OHS for MV repair. Rehab has been a life-save ... Read more
Gary Stripling Thanks for sharing your journey, Liz. I'm 3-months post OHS for MV repair. Rehab has been a life-saver for me and really helped me mentally get "back in the game" of life, so to speak. I had a home healthcare nurse visit weekly for the first month after surgery as well as home physical therapy (I'm 100% pacemaker dependent, so I've had a few complications). But I look back now and my wife and I marvel "wow, I had open heart surgery" 3 months ago! Enjoy the journey!
Wanda Mroz Sounds like you are doing great! I had MV OHS repair surgery in August and it took me weeks to get i ... Read more
Wanda Mroz Sounds like you are doing great! I had MV OHS repair surgery in August and it took me weeks to get into a rehab class they are so busy. You are going to work pretty quickly! I haven't bee back yet... I go back Dec 1. I know how you feel. I don't want to go back either. Have gotten use to doing what I want when I want to. It'll be hard to get through rehab and work but we'll both get through it! Hang in there.
Liz Burroughs Thank you Gary & Wanda for your words of encouragement!! We've all been through quite a journey & hav ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you Gary & Wanda for your words of encouragement!! We've all been through quite a journey & have come a long way! I'll think about you, Wanda, when you go back to work. Yes, we'll get through it & everything will be okay!
Tammy Pilcher So happy for your great recovery, Liz! Prayers and best wishes for your continued healing. God bles ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher So happy for your great recovery, Liz! Prayers and best wishes for your continued healing. God bless you, heart sister!
Terrie Syvertsen Hello Liz- Think you will agree that the Journey is worth it and hope you continue to heal both menta ... Read more
Terrie Syvertsen Hello Liz- Think you will agree that the Journey is worth it and hope you continue to heal both mentally as well as physically as both are important to a return to normalcy and our lives slipping into a confident return to our activities. You sound great and I wish you luck as you return to work. Hope that finding your quiet times continues as does your mending!
My third week at home was pretty good. I've been trying to do a few more things around the house every day. I've also been walking up the street & back. I still ...Read more
My third week at home was pretty good. I've been trying to do a few more things around the house every day. I've also been walking up the street & back. I still feel like I just want to rest on the couch most of the time. Last Thursday I went for my cardiac rehab eval. Everyone was very nice & it seems like a great way to get back into exercising in a controlled & safe environment. I went back the next day (Friday) to start my exercise program. Everything went well. I felt like I was really taking a step in the right direction by getting into this program.
My second week at home was much better than the first. The severe shortness of breath & feeling like I'm going to faint has gone away. It's a little lonely ...Read more
My second week at home was much better than the first. The severe shortness of breath & feeling like I'm going to faint has gone away. It's a little lonely being home by myself but, on the other hand, the quiet time has been nice. My husband took me to my cardiologist on Friday. Dr. Ridley said that my heart murmur is gone. He thought that my problems during my first week at home could have been due to too much Lasix. He said that I didn't have any abnormal heart rhythms or events while on the heart monitor so I could take off the monitor right away (yeah!!). He also said that I could start cardiac rehab. I'm looking forward to starting the rehab program and getting stronger.
Elaine Cutri So glad to hear your progress. Hopefully there is a friend or two that might want to take you out for ... Read more
Elaine Cutri So glad to hear your progress. Hopefully there is a friend or two that might want to take you out for a light lunch or movie over the next few weeks.
Enrique K Hello Liz, there is no place like home! Hope you feel better in the coming weeks. Trust me it does ge ... Read more
Enrique K Hello Liz, there is no place like home! Hope you feel better in the coming weeks. Trust me it does get much better. Hope you have a quick recovery. Stay busy I watched Homeland from the beginning in my spare time. The most important health wise is to walk, walk and walk even if you feel tired. This worked for me through the whole process.
Kimberly Biddick So glad you're starting to feel better and had a great dr report. I wish you continued success!!
Cheryl Batzing Liz, cardiac rehab is a God-send! Prayers for your continued recovery! Blessings!
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Enrique, Kimberly, Tammy, & Cheryl for your well wishes!! I'm encouraged to contin ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Enrique, Kimberly, Tammy, & Cheryl for your well wishes!! I'm encouraged to continue with my recovery & to keep walking!
MaryAnne Jardis Hi Liz
So happy you are doing so well. I am like you three weeks past surgery and everyday gets bette ... Read more
MaryAnne Jardis Hi Liz
So happy you are doing so well. I am like you three weeks past surgery and everyday gets better. I walk three times a day and my appetite has returned and had a few problems with heart rate and bp, but forging ahead. So glad I can look back now:)
Have a wonderful holiday ahead!
I was glad to get home again on October 31 but there were problems as soon as we walked in the door. There were pet problems and other household issues. I think ...Read more
I was glad to get home again on October 31 but there were problems as soon as we walked in the door. There were pet problems and other household issues. I think tempers flared because it had been such a trying week for both of us. It was hard on me because I felt like the concern and sympathy I had received was gone. It was a difficult weekend.
My first week at home I felt very weak and tired. My appetite was poor. I would go from one room to the next and would have to sit down because I was so tired. I would walk upstairs and then sit on the bed for five minutes to catch my breath. I would have to get out of the shower quickly before I was done because I thought I was going to faint.
Last Wednesday I went to my cardiologist. He sent me for blood work, a chest x-ray, and then a CT scan. He thought I might have a pulmonary embolism but, luckily, I didn't. I was so grateful that I didn't have to be admitted to the hospital.
Since that day I've been feeling better. I'm on a portable heart monitor for 30 days. I haven't had any more incidents of severe shortness of breath or feeling faint. I have some back & chest pain at night but nothing severe. I hope to be feeling better with each passing day.
Steven A Husted yes it will get better each day take your time do not rush anything time is a healer prayers for your ... Read more
Steven A Husted yes it will get better each day take your time do not rush anything time is a healer prayers for your recovery
Elaine Cutri This is a challenging time. Post surgery, but still fragile. Please be patient with yourself. As Stev ... Read more
Elaine Cutri This is a challenging time. Post surgery, but still fragile. Please be patient with yourself. As Steve says, it gets better from here. There may be ups and downs, but it does get better. Best wishes and continued prayers.
My thoughts are with you. Patience and time are hard to be forced into. Hang in there!!
susan kotansky This doesn't sound much different from my first week at home.....even to the tempers flaring. In the ... Read more
susan kotansky This doesn't sound much different from my first week at home.....even to the tempers flaring. In the hospital everyone caters to your every need and understands how challenging it is...then you go home and you're helpless and no one really understands how uncomfortable it is. My husband basically gave me a shower for the first week and a half. I cried through it each time, feeling so helpless. So now it's almost six weeks and although I've got a long way to go, there are parts of everyday where I forget I've had surgery. It does get better and better and you'll look back at those first few days and realize just how much better it's gotten. I'm very happy to hear that you didn't have any serious complications and got to go back home. Go easy on yourself....this is hard work! Best of recoveries to you!!!
Kimberly Biddick I am glad to hear it was nothing serious! Hoping and praying each day you make a little bit more pro ... Read more
Kimberly Biddick I am glad to hear it was nothing serious! Hoping and praying each day you make a little bit more progress than the last! :)
Enrique K Dear Liz, I'm glad things are stable now. Be patient with your body and believe that each week you wi ... Read more
Enrique K Dear Liz, I'm glad things are stable now. Be patient with your body and believe that each week you will make progress. It usually takes 2-3 months to start feeling back to normal again. Time is of the essence. Walk, Walk and walk even if you feel tired that is the best exercise for your body. Take Care!
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much, heart friends!! You're all so supportive & encouraging!! I always feel a lot bette ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much, heart friends!! You're all so supportive & encouraging!! I always feel a lot better after reading all of your comments! God bless you!
I was discharged from the hospital this afternoon. My mini MVR was a success! No mechanical valve needed. It was a very rough week but I survived.
I'm now ...Read more
I was discharged from the hospital this afternoon. My mini MVR was a success! No mechanical valve needed. It was a very rough week but I survived.
I'm now just enjoying all the tastes of freedom: getting all those wires, tubes, & monitors off of my body, wearing my own clothes, getting out in the fresh air & sunshine, taking a shower & washing my hair, eating a nice meal at a restaurant, sleeping in a big bed, & getting a good night's sleep (without any interruptions). A good night's sleep is what I'm really looking forward to tonight!!
We head back home tomorrow.
Jean Knappik Liz, that is awesome, so happy for you...live life to the fullest...it really makes you appreciate al ... Read more
Jean Knappik Liz, that is awesome, so happy for you...live life to the fullest...it really makes you appreciate all the little things. I hope your recovery is smooth!
Elaine Cutri Boy, you want an uninterrupted night's sleep? Congratulations on your discharge. Best wishes for a co ... Read more
Elaine Cutri Boy, you want an uninterrupted night's sleep? Congratulations on your discharge. Best wishes for a continuing successful recovery!
Kimberly Biddick Wonderful news!!! Congrats on your discharge and successful repair!!
Enrique K Liz, great to hear that you are getting discharged and the operation was a success! Wish you a fast ... Read more
Enrique K Liz, great to hear that you are getting discharged and the operation was a success! Wish you a fast and quick recovery!
Gary Stripling Great to hear how well you're doing, Liz! Be patient with yourself during your recovery and you'll be ... Read more
Gary Stripling Great to hear how well you're doing, Liz! Be patient with yourself during your recovery and you'll be fine. Congrats!
Whitney Nelson Congrats Liz! So happy everything went well and that your on the mend!
MaryAnne Jardis So happy for you Liz. Yes we made it. Hoping to go home today. Many blessings to you!
We arrived in Charlottesville this afternoon at about 2:30. After stopping by the hotel to check on our room, we drove to the UVA Medical Center to make sure ...Read more
We arrived in Charlottesville this afternoon at about 2:30. After stopping by the hotel to check on our room, we drove to the UVA Medical Center to make sure we knew the route & how much time it would take us to get there. I have to be at the hospital at 5:15 AM. Our son drove here from VA Tech so that he could be there for me & go with us to the hospital. He got here around 6:00 & brought me a Big Bird stuffed animal for me to have during my recovery. We went out to dinner & went back to the hotel to go in the pool & hot tub.
I'm writing this before I go to bed & I'm feeling scared. It still doesn't seem real. I know I'm doing the right thing. Last night I was in bed, tossing around, & listening to my heart. It was doing all sorts of flip flops & crazy beats. I knew it needed to be fixed.
Thank you, heart friends, for all your words of wisdom, support, & prayers. This is my last post before my surgery. Good night friends.
Rich Fogel Sending you lots of positive energy, Liz! Hope everything goes smoothly!
Cheryl Batzing Praying for you, Liz! For a successful surgery and quick healing. Blessings heart sister!
Ruth Valenzuela I will be praying for you. I had my surgery 4 weeks ago and I'm doing good. I feel better every day ... Read more
Ruth Valenzuela I will be praying for you. I had my surgery 4 weeks ago and I'm doing good. I feel better every day. You will do good too. May God give you His peace as you begin this journey.
Michael Bowes Liz, let not your heart be troubled (is that a pun?). You are going to do just fine. Anytime that y ... Read more
Michael Bowes Liz, let not your heart be troubled (is that a pun?). You are going to do just fine. Anytime that you get a negative thought or a frightened thought, push it out on your mind and think of the positives. In a few weeks you are going to be looking back at this surgery, so happy that it is over and so grateful for feeling much better. You have many more things to do in this world, your mission is not not complete, keep up your spirits and know that everything is going to work out. Have a good surgery and get plenty of rest.
Liz Burroughs Thanks so much, heart friends!! Talk to you soon!!
Kelly Weisgarber Good luck Liz, sending prayers your way. I'll be facing my surgery nov 16th and you'll be feeling be ... Read more
Kelly Weisgarber Good luck Liz, sending prayers your way. I'll be facing my surgery nov 16th and you'll be feeling better by then :)
susan kotansky By now you're probably almost done with your surgery. I wish you the very smoothest and rapid recover ... Read more
susan kotansky By now you're probably almost done with your surgery. I wish you the very smoothest and rapid recovery. Looking forward to seeing your first post.
Betsey Osgood Trust in those wonderful people that will be taking care of you for the next few days! The waiting a ... Read more
Betsey Osgood Trust in those wonderful people that will be taking care of you for the next few days! The waiting and worrying about the surgery is over. You are on the healing side of your journey now!!! Prayers for a fast and smooth recovery...
Steven A Husted dear lord i ask again for you to watch over liz and give her your healing touch for a smooth surgery ... Read more
Steven A Husted dear lord i ask again for you to watch over liz and give her your healing touch for a smooth surgery and recovery thank you jesus amen
Today my husband & I spent the day preparing for our trip to Charlottesville. We needed to take care of some needs for my dad & buy a few items to take on the ...Read more
Today my husband & I spent the day preparing for our trip to Charlottesville. We needed to take care of some needs for my dad & buy a few items to take on the road with us. We did our laundry & began packing (I really don't need to pack much!). I called my sister who lives in California. I wish she lived closer. I tried calling my brother in Minnesota (no answer). I called my uncle who lives in Missouri. He said that he had heart bypass surgery at the age of 76 (he's 87 now). Later our pastor stopped by to talk & say a prayer for us. Then we went out to a nice dinner & came home to finish packing. So much to do...
Whitney Nelson Good luck on your travels and with surgery! I look forward to hearing from you when your on the other ... Read more
Whitney Nelson Good luck on your travels and with surgery! I look forward to hearing from you when your on the other side of it! I will be praying and sending good thoughts your way!
Sophia Ridley All the very best Liz. I have pre-op assessment on Monday which is making my surgery seem very close ... Read more
Sophia Ridley All the very best Liz. I have pre-op assessment on Monday which is making my surgery seem very close, I have you in my thoughts. We are here every step of the way with you.
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Whitney, Jean, & Sophia! Tomorrow is the big day! I'm here in Charlottesville now s ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Whitney, Jean, & Sophia! Tomorrow is the big day! I'm here in Charlottesville now so this is really going to happen. The 26th seemed so far away but now it's almost here. It's so nice to have my heart friends praying for me!
anita egden Best of luck Liz, sending good vibes and will say a little prayer for you
Debbie Bentley Good luck and praying for you . I have a Arotic Valve Replacement in my very near future . Thinking o ... Read more
Debbie Bentley Good luck and praying for you . I have a Arotic Valve Replacement in my very near future . Thinking of you :)
Elaine Cutri Best wishes for the best outcome and successful recovery.
Steven A Husted dear heavenly father watch over liz and take very good care of her and see her thru this surgery and ... Read more
Steven A Husted dear heavenly father watch over liz and take very good care of her and see her thru this surgery and recovery give her your healing touch in jesus name we pray amen
Claire M Miller Wishing you well tomorrow. My thoughts and prayers are with you
Christine Oliva God Blessings to you today Liz. I got my toes and fingers crossed to for you today and your recovery. ... Read more
Christine Oliva God Blessings to you today Liz. I got my toes and fingers crossed to for you today and your recovery. Hugs from a two week aortic valve tissue recipient. It does get better. Yes, it does.
Today was my last day at work before my surgery. Our office closes at 1:00 PM on Fridays but I stayed late to finish up with a few things. I wanted to get my ...Read more
Today was my last day at work before my surgery. Our office closes at 1:00 PM on Fridays but I stayed late to finish up with a few things. I wanted to get my office in order and work on a training log that my supervisor will probably need for an audit next week. A few coworkers, one being my supervisor, stopped by my office to wish me good luck, offer their thoughts & prayers, and give a few hugs. Some coworkers just quickly walked by with a "good bye & have a good weekend." Did they forget that my surgery is on Monday? Maybe they just didn't know what to say? As I sat in the quiet of my office I felt some sadness. I was trying to get things done in case I didn't come back. Of course I'm coming back! Don't be silly! I have those same thoughts when I leave for a vacation (especially if I'm flying). A coworker from the other building stopped by. She asked me how I was doing so I had to tell her about my surgery. She offered some words of encouragement. While I was finishing up I got a call from UVA. I was given the pre-surgery info including the time I had to be at the hospital on Monday (5:15 AM...I didn't think it would be THAT early). After the call I finished straightening up, sent an email, packed up a few items from my office, and left. It was 3:00 PM. On the drive home I realized that I was really going through with this surgery. It's a done deal. Everything is all set and everyone is waiting. Even though I have a lot of support and a lot of HVS community friends, ultimately I (and all of us) will go through this alone. It's just something that we have to go through. I know that the surgery is necessary to save, prolong, & improve our lives but there are other reasons too. I think we find out the reasons when we get to the other side of the surgery. I'm ready...
W. Carter You won't be alone. Your qualified Surgeon will be looking out for your best interest all day Monday. ... Read more
W. Carter You won't be alone. Your qualified Surgeon will be looking out for your best interest all day Monday. With your Surgeon's great knowledge and God's help everything will be fine! You will be back on here in no time wishing new heart patients good luck on their surgeries.
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much for your kind words!! I look forward to posting again after the surgery!
Mindy Currence Even though I am still a little over a month away from surgery, I have the same feelings. Preparing ... Read more
Mindy Currence Even though I am still a little over a month away from surgery, I have the same feelings. Preparing every day with the thought in the back of my mind that I want things in order "just in case." Some may think this is silly, but I think it is brave. You are obviously very strong, as we all are, and I want you to know I will be praying for you this weekend. Best wishes for a smooth recovery.
Lori Rees Good Luck Liz. I'm now almost 3 weeks postop. Not going to lie, it's a rough surgery. Women are to ... Read more
Lori Rees Good Luck Liz. I'm now almost 3 weeks postop. Not going to lie, it's a rough surgery. Women are tough though. Hard to not think of everything that could go wrong. Fear of the unknown, I guess. Have faith in your surgeon, and in God. That's what I did. Came out on the other side in better shape than before, and with the chance of a better life. You will too. You'll be in my thoughts and prayers. ❤️
Elaine Cutri Sending good thoughts and prayers your way. Hope you can rest and relax this weekend.
MaryAnne Jardis Hi Liz
I feel the same was as you mentioned in your post. We will get through this. And back to work ... Read more
MaryAnne Jardis Hi Liz
I feel the same was as you mentioned in your post. We will get through this. And back to work and feeling normal down the road. Things to always look forward to...all the best!
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Mindy, Lori, Elaine, & MaryAnne! It's so good to have all of you thinking & praying ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Mindy, Lori, Elaine, & MaryAnne! It's so good to have all of you thinking & praying for me. I'm truly blessed!!
Meredith Bray Oh my gosh, you're SO close, it's really kind of exciting, isn't it? My surgery day was pivotal for m ... Read more
Meredith Bray Oh my gosh, you're SO close, it's really kind of exciting, isn't it? My surgery day was pivotal for me. And now i get birthday cake TWICE a year! :) Not everyone gets a chance to get healthier like we've been given.
-Meredith
This week (Sunday through Wednesday) I'm in Glen Allen, VA (Richmond area) for a work-related conference. I really wanted this time to meet with colleagues/friends, ...Read more
This week (Sunday through Wednesday) I'm in Glen Allen, VA (Richmond area) for a work-related conference. I really wanted this time to meet with colleagues/friends, learn, relax, enjoy my hotel room, and have some time to myself to think & reflect. I wanted to enjoy this time before my surgery. I'm glad that I had this opportunity.
Right now my surgery seems far away to me. I'm trying not to think about it too much. In the past I would find a way to get out of things that were uncomfortable or scary for me. I can't really think of a way to get out of this. Everything is all set. The only thing I could do would be to take off and disappear. I'm not going to do that! It wouldn't solve my problems & would only make everything worse. I'm going to make it through this. I have to believe that everything is going to be okay.
Kimberly Biddick I completely understand your feelings. I feel like I have been blocking it out a lot and making mysel ... Read more
Kimberly Biddick I completely understand your feelings. I feel like I have been blocking it out a lot and making myself busy with the kids' activities and all the preparing for surgery around the house that has to be done. Some time to your self to think and reflect sounds very good for the soul. I think it is important to be prepared mentally, physically and emotionally and it sounds like you are doing an excellent job at all three.
Betsey Osgood Waiting for the surgery was very hard for me. My surgeon went on a three week vacation right after I ... Read more
Betsey Osgood Waiting for the surgery was very hard for me. My surgeon went on a three week vacation right after I choose him! About 4 days before surgery, I had a calmness and peace come over me. I wasn't worried or scared or dwelling on all the "what if's". I recognized it as acceptance. I know you will find it too! It's key to this journey!
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much, Kimberly & Betsey, for your kind words/advice. Yes, I think that acceptance is the ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much, Kimberly & Betsey, for your kind words/advice. Yes, I think that acceptance is the key!
Michael Bowes I know that feeling myself Liz. Each time before I had to undergo another surgery, I would always ps ... Read more
Michael Bowes I know that feeling myself Liz. Each time before I had to undergo another surgery, I would always psyche myself up before the big day and then when it finally arrived, I found that coming to terms with it, what the risks were, and connecting with my family, always helped me get into the right frame of mind.
When is your surgery and where is it going to take place? Is this your first OP?
Claire M Miller My thoughts are with you I honestly feel the same. I found that if I just try my best to keep calming ... Read more
Claire M Miller My thoughts are with you I honestly feel the same. I found that if I just try my best to keep calming thoughts it would sometimes help. Iam waiting myself my surgery is on October 29th and I to get a little off track with the thinking game. My prayers are with you!
Terry Shermeister So I read your story and can tell you that you have made the right choice to have the surgery. I had ... Read more
Terry Shermeister So I read your story and can tell you that you have made the right choice to have the surgery. I had my MVR on May 14, and am glad I did. I had no symptoms, and actually biked and swam the days immediately before the operation. I'm now five months post op and am actually doing better now than before the surgery. Healing thoughts and prayers along with a fast and uneventful recovery.
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Michael, Claire, & Terry! I just read your comments and they're so helpful & encour ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much Michael, Claire, & Terry! I just read your comments and they're so helpful & encouraging. I feel so much better about having my surgery (even though I'm still scared). I know it's the right thing to do. Best wishes to all of you! Liz
I've told most of my family & friends about my surgery either in person, on the phone, or on Facebook. Everyone is very supportive. Unfortunately, most of them ...Read more
I've told most of my family & friends about my surgery either in person, on the phone, or on Facebook. Everyone is very supportive. Unfortunately, most of them are spread out throughout the country with very few living in or near Virginia. They will be with me in spirit.
This is one of those times that I wish I was younger and still had my parents with me. My mom died in 2008. My dad has some dementia & lives in an assisted living facility (he's 94). I'm not telling him about my surgery.
I'm grateful to have my step-son staying with us for a while. He'll be taking care of things while we're away. My husband will be traveling with me to Charlottesville and will stay at a hotel during the week of my surgery/hospitalization. My son is going to drive from Virginia Tech to Charlottesville next Sunday to visit & stay with us until I go into surgery on Monday morning.
I'm grateful for my family, friends, and this HVS community for all your thoughts, prayers, and support. I especially don't feel so alone when I know that so many others are going through the same things that I am. I'm so grateful.
Kimberly Biddick Doesn't it make it so much easier knowing we are not alone? Even with good friends and family surrou ... Read more
Kimberly Biddick Doesn't it make it so much easier knowing we are not alone? Even with good friends and family surrounding us, it's hard to not feel isolated with what we are facing... this site helps so much with that! Best of luck to you in the upcoming weeks and months!
Steven A Husted yes the friends i have met here are truely a blessing they are my new family love them all
Liz Burroughs Thanks Kimberly! We are all truly blessed to have each other...friends who understand what we're goin ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thanks Kimberly! We are all truly blessed to have each other...friends who understand what we're going through.
Last Thursday I drove to Charlottesville & back (280 miles) to the Heart & Vascular Center at the UVA Medical Center for my follow-up pre-surgery visit. I had ...Read more
Last Thursday I drove to Charlottesville & back (280 miles) to the Heart & Vascular Center at the UVA Medical Center for my follow-up pre-surgery visit. I had an EKG done and then met with John, the PA, to go over details of the surgery, get my questions answered, and sign the consents for my mini mitral valve surgery and the anesthesia. Then my surgeon, Dr. Gorav Ailawadi, came in to talk with me. He asked if I had any questions but I seem to forget all my questions when the doctor walks into the room! He told me that the surgery would last about four hours. We agreed that I would get a mechanical valve if necessary.
Next I talked with Robbin, the nurse care coordinator. She discussed more details about before, during, and after the surgery. She was very helpful to me in understanding what to expect and calming some of my fears. She gave me my pre-op instructions, including the special soap that I needed to wash with before the surgery and the spirometer that I need to practice using. After that I went to the lab to get my blood drawn & get my blood bracelet to take with me to the hospital.
Then I left the hospital and drove home. Later that night I sent Dr. Ailawadi an email with two questions that I forgot to ask him at my visit. He was nice enough to respond to my email the next day and answer my questions. I feel much better about going through with the surgery and I'm confident that Dr. Ailawadi is the most qualified and the best surgeon to perform my mitral valve repair surgery. My surgery is still set for October 26, two weeks from tomorrow.
Patrick Kennedy Liz, I'm not far from you, in Richmond Va. I had my mitral valve repaired back in May and I'm feeling ... Read more
Patrick Kennedy Liz, I'm not far from you, in Richmond Va. I had my mitral valve repaired back in May and I'm feeling great. Recovery was much smoother than I excepted! This pages is a great resource. Keep your head up and stay positive. Do what your told and after surgery ... walk... A lot!
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much, Patrick, for the encouragement & advice! Where did you have your surgery? I'm glad ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much, Patrick, for the encouragement & advice! Where did you have your surgery? I'm glad that your recovery was smoother than expected & that you're feeling great. I'll definitely follow your advice!
Patrick Kennedy Mine was done at VCU Medical Center. Cardiologist: Dr. Gertz, surgeon: Dr. Kaserajan. (Spelling may b ... Read more
Patrick Kennedy Mine was done at VCU Medical Center. Cardiologist: Dr. Gertz, surgeon: Dr. Kaserajan. (Spelling may be off on the surgeon.) my experience there has been top notch.
Terry Shermeister Hi Liz: Last March I went through all the tests and got the advice that you did. I had no symptoms, ... Read more
Terry Shermeister Hi Liz: Last March I went through all the tests and got the advice that you did. I had no symptoms, biked, swam, and lived a very active life. I had all the doubts that you did. May 14th I went in for Mitral Valve repair. Two days before, I went for a fast 3/4 mile swim, and the day before a 15 mile bike. I murmur was very pronounced. No symptoms. All my research was that it's better to have this surgery rather than wait for symptoms. I'm five months out, biking, swimming, walking, lifting, and doing yoga. Trust your surgeon. I know how stressed I was, it is only natural. I'm glad I'm done with it, but also glad I had this procedure before symptoms occurred.
Gerald Schaffer It sounds like your medical team is really good. Having confidence in them will help you relax going ... Read more
Gerald Schaffer It sounds like your medical team is really good. Having confidence in them will help you relax going into the surgery. Best of luck to you.
Liz Burroughs Thanks so much everyone for all your words of wisdom & encouragement! I'm trying not to think too muc ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thanks so much everyone for all your words of wisdom & encouragement! I'm trying not to think too much about the actual surgery but I know now that I'm making the right decision.
Today I told my coworkers that I was having heart valve surgery. I was a little anxious to tell them but I felt better when it was out in the open. Everyone ...Read more
Today I told my coworkers that I was having heart valve surgery. I was a little anxious to tell them but I felt better when it was out in the open. Everyone was very supportive. This is becoming more real to me. I guess I'm going through with the surgery.
This afternoon I went to a mandatory employee presentation on Advance Care Planning/Advance Medical Directive. How ironic. This is something that I didn't want to think about but I know I need to have. I'm filling out the paperwork now.
I'm sure everything will be fine and, of course, I'm going to remain positive. It's always good, however, to be prepared.
I received two letters in the mail today. One was from my insurance company. They approved my surgery for mitral valve repair or replacement. The second letter ...Read more
I received two letters in the mail today. One was from my insurance company. They approved my surgery for mitral valve repair or replacement. The second letter was from the UVA Division of Thoracic Cardiovascular Surgery. They sent me a copy of the completed attending provider statement for my short term disability paperwork. The diagnosis & the date of my surgery is listed on the form. Well, I guess this is really going to happen. I'm going through with the surgery...three weeks from today.
Tammy Pilcher Praying for your surgery and recovery to go smoothly, Liz. God bless you!
Jacqueline Cook Sending positive thoughts and prayers as you prepare for your surgery!
Enrique K Liz, good luck with your upcoming surgery!
Steven A Husted dear lord be with liz see her thru this surgery and recovery with smooth sailing amen
Tim Goff Best wishes Liz for peace and calm going into your surgery. With a great medical team, prayers and po ... Read more
Tim Goff Best wishes Liz for peace and calm going into your surgery. With a great medical team, prayers and positive energy you will do fine.
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much, everyone, for all your prayers & best wishes. I will have all of you with me in sp ... Read more
Liz Burroughs Thank you so much, everyone, for all your prayers & best wishes. I will have all of you with me in spirit as I go into surgery.
John Lyons You'll be on the flip side before you know it. Time flies after surgery. Best wishes!
I’m writing this because I know that you all understand. I’ll admit that I’m scared and my anxiety level has increased. I had a cardiac cath before my surgery, but that was 9 years ago. Now I’m in my 60’s and I’m afraid about what’s going to happen. I’m asking myself why is this happening to me. I’m sure you have all asked that question. I guess I thought that my surgery would solve all my heart problems. I guess not. I’m asking for prayers, advice, & words of encouragement. Thank you so much! ❤️