Woo hoo!!!! One year ago today, I got my new bovine valve. I will say that this has been a great year! I feel great and don't even feel like there was ever ...Read more
Woo hoo!!!! One year ago today, I got my new bovine valve. I will say that this has been a great year! I feel great and don't even feel like there was ever anything wrong with me. I feel as normal as normal can be. I'm married, work full time and have a 5-year old son that keeps me busy. I'm so thankful for having this surgery behind me. I know one day I'll face another surgery but for now, I'm living in the moment and thank God for Dr. Accola and his team! For those of you who face surgery, be strong and know that you can do this. Have faith in God that He will take of you.
I'll try to post a picture tomorrow. I'll see about a Smiling Selfie❤️.
Liz Burroughs Congrats on your one year anniversary!!
Cheryl Batzing Congrats Melinda! You were a huge inspiration going before me...and a great support. Hope to meet you ... Read more
Cheryl Batzing Congrats Melinda! You were a huge inspiration going before me...and a great support. Hope to meet you one day! blessings.
Serena Sorensen Your journal is great! My MVR & AVR is Friday, 10/23/15, and your after surgery entries are really ... Read more
Serena Sorensen Your journal is great! My MVR & AVR is Friday, 10/23/15, and your after surgery entries are really helpful for my nervous loved ones. Thank you & congrats on your fantastic progress!
Selena gurst Hello Selena I have an appointment with the surgerant on Nov 4,2015 said he looked at my test and saw ... Read more
Selena gurst Hello Selena I have an appointment with the surgerant on Nov 4,2015 said he looked at my test and saw 3-valves leaking but mild but want to repair all 3-valves have very bad family history on the hear mines is generational I have had heart murmur since birth but had open heart surgery for myocardial bridge last year tryed bypass surgery bit did not work but now having short of breath, fatigue, lost a lot of energy, have small vessel disease as well,Enlarged heart,1- staged of congested heart failure have had a hacking cough doc gave me water pills as well for the fluid, chest pain from the right to the left shoulder blade as well left arm under Chen but went the emergency room they said I stable at this time II was praying that a heart Dr.Darian BRADFORD was going to see me and fix my heart at that time not hope if he don't fix it who would with me leaving in Arlington Texas and money fly for another hospital to fix it or Doctor bu I am loving this doctor heart valve surgery doctor.com if you know him and can help me I have been suffering since all my liffe/8months,
Tammy Pilcher HAPPY FIRST ANNIVERSARY, MELINDA!! I'm so happy to hear you're still doing so well! We were both so ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher HAPPY FIRST ANNIVERSARY, MELINDA!! I'm so happy to hear you're still doing so well! We were both so blessed to have Dr. Accola and team to fix our hearts. Thank you again, my heart sister, for helping me to know what to expect and to calm my fears. I know God led me to Adam's wonderful site so that I could find Dr. Accola, meet you, and the rest of this amazing community. I don't believe it was a coincidence that I found out Oct. 10, 2014 I needed OHS, joined this site, and connected with someone (you) who was going to have the same surgery by the same surgeon just 10 days before me! I believe it was God answering my prayer for peace and courage! Praising our awesome Lord and thanking Him for all He has done for us! Let me know if you get back up this way; I would love to see you again! Hugs, Tammy
Enrique K Great News Melinda and great to hear you have completed one year. I am just in day 11 of post-surgery ... Read more
Enrique K Great News Melinda and great to hear you have completed one year. I am just in day 11 of post-surgery and feeing great:-)
W. Carter Congrats! I'm in mo. 10, around 9 mo. is where I turned the corner and everything changed for the bes ... Read more
W. Carter Congrats! I'm in mo. 10, around 9 mo. is where I turned the corner and everything changed for the best. So I will say this to all post op valve patients, don't give up you will feel better than you have in years, it just takes time. :-)
Ed Smith Congratulations, Melinda. That's a great accomplishment.
Jim O'Brien Congratulations, Melinda. It sounds like you are doing wonderful and I'm very happy for you. Stay str ... Read more
Jim O'Brien Congratulations, Melinda. It sounds like you are doing wonderful and I'm very happy for you. Stay strong, and best wished for continued good health to you and your family.
Congrats! That is a great accomplishment. Thanks for sharing!! :)
Lilly Black That's so awesome, and a great achievement. Congrats, happy for you!
Hello my heart friends. I'm just curious if any of you recommend a particular heart rate monitor?
Kathleen McClung My husband bought me the Samsung Gear Fit band. It syncs with my phone too. I checked the heart rate ... Read more
Kathleen McClung My husband bought me the Samsung Gear Fit band. It syncs with my phone too. I checked the heart rate monitor at cardiac rehab and they were the exact same so that made me feel good. I have not had it long but so far so good. Hope you're doing well!
Adam Pick Hey Melinda, I got a Polar heart rate monitor. It worked great. I was even able to swim with it.
Ole Bore I picked up a basis peak as a treat to monitor my recovery. Syncs with your phone, sets goals for you ... Read more
Ole Bore I picked up a basis peak as a treat to monitor my recovery. Syncs with your phone, sets goals for you to reach called habits, and is very accurate with the HR monitor. So far, love it!
Clare Auten I am on a beta blocker so the ladies at rehab said a heart rate monitor would not matter because the ... Read more
Clare Auten I am on a beta blocker so the ladies at rehab said a heart rate monitor would not matter because the meds keep my heart rate down. Anyone else with the same experience?
Jason Leber Hi Melinda, I would say it depends on what activities you plan to do. Some are better for swimming, r ... Read more
Jason Leber Hi Melinda, I would say it depends on what activities you plan to do. Some are better for swimming, running or cycling. Garmin makes a few that are great for running because you can also track your distance, pace etc. Polar is probably the highest quality in my experience, I've had 2 that have lasted over 10 years with tons of use. Only advice is make sure the battery in the chest strap is replaceable (some aren't so you throw them away when done).
@Clare, I'm on a beta blocker too and I still track my heart rate. It's good to have baselines while on beta blockers so when you're off them you can see the change. I find that the more data the better when you're trying to track activities over a long term.
Tammy Pilcher Hey Melinda, I hope you're still doing well! It's good to see your name again on here heart sister!
I just completed my first session of cardiac rehab and it was great! It's like having a personal trainer. Today, I worked out on a treadmill, elliptical machine, ...Read more
I just completed my first session of cardiac rehab and it was great! It's like having a personal trainer. Today, I worked out on a treadmill, elliptical machine, recumbent bike and an arm machine. I will start weight training after Tuesday, when I am 8 weeks post op. I'll get better at each session. My RN (ie personal trainer) says she'll have me jogging again and will have me ready for a spin class. It feels so good to feel normal again with a new lease on life.
Tammy Pilcher That's great Melinda! I might have to check in to that too! My cardiologist didn't mention it to me ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher That's great Melinda! I might have to check in to that too! My cardiologist didn't mention it to me, so I'm not sure where I would have to go. I'm glad you're doing so well! Love, Tammy
Trudy Teague Awesome!!!!! That sounds better than I imagined. :-) You are doing great- and I bet the surgery is ... Read more
Trudy Teague Awesome!!!!! That sounds better than I imagined. :-) You are doing great- and I bet the surgery is starting to feel more like a distant memory each and every day.
Melinda Hacker Tammy, I had to inquire about it. My cardiologist gave me a prescription with no hesitation. It's 1 ... Read more
Melinda Hacker Tammy, I had to inquire about it. My cardiologist gave me a prescription with no hesitation. It's 12-week, 36-session program offered by Tampa General Hospital. I'm sure your local hospital has the same one similar program. It is designed for anyone with heart disease or has gone through heart surgery. I was hooked to a monitor so there was a guy there watching my heart rate during my workout. They also check blood pressure before and after workout. My evaluation yesterday included a full assessment including a blood test to check cholesterol. I think it's good for me to get my head screwed on right as far as fitness goes now that surgery is in the past.
Kathleen McClung Love your updates! I started my cardiac rehab yesterday and first class today. I feel much better be ... Read more
Kathleen McClung Love your updates! I started my cardiac rehab yesterday and first class today. I feel much better being hooked to the ekg and heart rate. All is good just peace of mind. I am just 4 weeks so will not start the 8 weeks arm strengthening until like Jan 15th. Still feels good to be moving!
Melinda Hacker Yes, peace of mind was huge when I was getting my heart rate on up there today!
Nancy D I am so glad you liked it and the security of being closely observed! And yes, it builds confidence ... Read more
Nancy D I am so glad you liked it and the security of being closely observed! And yes, it builds confidence so much faster than walking around the block on your own. With a dr's order some health insurance plans cover it all or just a minimal co-pay. I graduated Monday after completing all sessions, and what a difference it has made! Just back from my 2.2 mile walk in the humidity....I may just have to buy a treadmill sooner rather than later for days like today, or yesterday where the weather isn't great! Just keep moving!!!!!
Ken Obermeyer I love hearing this! I'm so happy for you Melinda. My cardiologist ordered my rehab this morning. It' ... Read more
Ken Obermeyer I love hearing this! I'm so happy for you Melinda. My cardiologist ordered my rehab this morning. It's a month away, but this makes me look forward to it all the more. Keep on keeping on!
Tammy Pilcher Thanks, Melinda, I'll check in to it. I just got back from my walk. I'm walking an hour at a rate t ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Thanks, Melinda, I'll check in to it. I just got back from my walk. I'm walking an hour at a rate that makes me not completely out of breath unless I try to talk too much. I know it would be good to work out in different ways too though.
Joseph Ballett Awesome work my training begins on Jan 8 i'll look to you for tips.
Adam Pick Melinda, Congrats to you for getting into a cardiac rehab program. Research has shown that cardiac re ... Read more
Adam Pick Melinda, Congrats to you for getting into a cardiac rehab program. Research has shown that cardiac rehab is an under-prescribed and under-utilized element of a patient's recovery. Great for you! For me, cardiac rehab was the fundamental turning point of my recovery. I consumed all the physical, social, emotional and spiritual benefits of these programs.
Joan Napier Thanks for the update, Melinda. It sounds like you are doing great! I had a (gentle) stress test yest ... Read more
Joan Napier Thanks for the update, Melinda. It sounds like you are doing great! I had a (gentle) stress test yesterday and I was cleared to start cardiac rehab this Monday 12/15. Really hoping it restores my strength and stamina. The loss of those things has put me in a low mood these days. You have given me hope!
Cheryl Batzing Melinda...sounds like you are doing great! Very encouraging to hear the exercise you are able to han ... Read more
Cheryl Batzing Melinda...sounds like you are doing great! Very encouraging to hear the exercise you are able to handle at this point! I'm an exerciser and can't wait to be where you are at your point...with my surgery scheduled 2 days away. Blessings.
Great news Melinda and glad you are doing iso well during recovery. Those are all the same things I w ... Read more
Great news Melinda and glad you are doing iso well during recovery. Those are all the same things I was doing- and it does feel great. Enjoy!
I have a questions for those whom have already had surgery. How long did it take for the lump above the incision to go away?
Eleanor R I know, I wondered if that lump would ever go away, and it completely did, as the muscles relaxed and ... Read more
Eleanor R I know, I wondered if that lump would ever go away, and it completely did, as the muscles relaxed and moved back into their space. I think I had a little lump for at least a couple of months, and then one day I noticed it was gone completely.
Adam Pick Melinda, Great question! Here is some information and about 25 or so patient comments about the bump ... Read more
Adam Pick Melinda, Great question! Here is some information and about 25 or so patient comments about the bump at http://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2009/11/13/bump-incision-after-open-heart-surgery/.
I hope that helps! Adam
Joan Napier Thanks for the info Eleanor and Adam. Melinda, I have the same question because I still have a pretty ... Read more
Joan Napier Thanks for the info Eleanor and Adam. Melinda, I have the same question because I still have a pretty good size lump. Immediately post-op It was the size of a golf ball. It was large enough that every nurse and doctor that looked at it asked if it was getting larger. (I suppose they were concerned about a hematoma, which thankfully it is not). I'd say it's half that size now, but it is rather tender. People don't comment on the incision, but they do notice the swelling. Good to know it eventually subsides :)
John Noriega Sorry no lump here! All of my glue has disappeared and ready for scar to thin out! O & W!
Eleanor R I thought it was never going away, for the incision is small and not too noticeable, but it felt like ... Read more
Eleanor R I thought it was never going away, for the incision is small and not too noticeable, but it felt like a baseball or golf ball at the least! It began to shrink and I guess I forgot about it because I noticed it was gone somewhere between six and eight weeks. Now at four months, can't even feel where it was.
My recovery is coming along good. I'm able to finally wash and blow dry my own hair! What a treat. I'm able to go on short walks in the neighborhood, so ...Read more
My recovery is coming along good. I'm able to finally wash and blow dry my own hair! What a treat. I'm able to go on short walks in the neighborhood, so that feels great in the fall weather. If it weren't for my surgery, I'd probably be in Jacksonville today at the University of GA vs. University of Florida football game. The gators will get trampled by the bulldogs today so I might as well be at home anyway. I'm not on any medication except for an occasional Tylenol. My incision is healing nicely. I'd post a picture of it but apparently some people find incision pictures offensive. If you are interested in seeing mine at 11 days, let me know.
I'm already having thoughts about how great this Spring will be for me and my family! My son will be turning 5 in March and we are taking a Disney Cruise in May. Yeah for mom! Prior to having my son, my cardiologist was okay with me running with my bicuspid aortic valve. Once prego, doc said no more running. I went to see him this past week and he says once I'm all healed, I can get back to running! I has been SO long, I'll start with walking and build up my endurance. I'm just SO glad I've got so much good stuff in store😊
I'm sure my posts will not be as frequent since I'm healing well and all is on course to live a normal life now. I want to thank you to Adam for this site. This site has so much helpful information and a terrific community. Most importantly for me, this site helped me find my surgeon, Dr. Accola, in Orlando.
Ericka Carlson I love hearing this!! Post the picture, those who are offended will always find something to be offen ... Read more
Ericka Carlson I love hearing this!! Post the picture, those who are offended will always find something to be offended about, that is not your burden to bear.
Trudy Teague Yay Melinda- that is wonderful! Looking forward to having you back at work!!!
Dan Sinclair Go GATORS! Sounds like you are doing great, keep it up!
Elaine Foster So happy for you!! Such an encouragement to those of us awaiting surgery. I see my surgeon of choic ... Read more
Elaine Foster So happy for you!! Such an encouragement to those of us awaiting surgery. I see my surgeon of choice this Tuesday, so I hope to have a surgery date after that. You have a wonderful life ahead of you, enjoy your time with your son, and I know you will have a great time on your cruise. God Bless you. I too, would like to see a picture.
Cheryl Batzing You are an encouragement, Melinda, as I'll probably be heading to surgery within 4-6 weeks. Have a g ... Read more
Cheryl Batzing You are an encouragement, Melinda, as I'll probably be heading to surgery within 4-6 weeks. Have a great Thanksgiving & Christmas with this behind you.
Joseph Ballett Keep up the good work , feel free to post the pic join the club
Eleanor R I am glad you are doing so well, so soon, Keep up your good progress. Eleanor
Dan Sinclair Melinda, Hope you watched the game, that certainly was not the result that most of the Gator Nation w ... Read more
Dan Sinclair Melinda, Hope you watched the game, that certainly was not the result that most of the Gator Nation was expecting. Now if they can do the same to FSU it will be a great year! Take Care, Go Slow and Steady!
Great to hear you are doing well and yes, I would think that we'd need less information from this si ... Read more
Great to hear you are doing well and yes, I would think that we'd need less information from this site as we get well and move on with our lives. That's a good thing !
Kathleen McClung Love your update! You are amazing and I hope I am as positive as you. Thank you so much for all your ... Read more
Kathleen McClung Love your update! You are amazing and I hope I am as positive as you. Thank you so much for all your updates. I would totally love to see your incision. I am very curious. Oh and you know I am in Jax and the game was yesterday now. Go GATORS!
Today has been my hardest day yet. My sister went back home, my husband is back to work, home health delivered my shower chair and an incompetent physical ...Read more
Today has been my hardest day yet. My sister went back home, my husband is back to work, home health delivered my shower chair and an incompetent physical therapist came to my house for an initial session. I hired a cleaning lady to keep up my cleaning and she was here today too, with running vacuum and all. A close neighbor came over to offer her support too. There has been WAY too much going on here and I had to have a break. Oh, and all the medicine last week has me so constipated, I keep getting the sweats.
Finally, it's peaceful at home. My husband brought some stuff home to work on so he's quietly working upstairs and is here if I need anything. A friend is picking up my son from school so I have time to rest. AND I finally had a BM. Yeah me!!
My physical therapist experience was a joke. He evaluated me, gave me a few exercises to do and said I didn't need PT. I'm not sad that he won't be back. The man has probably already retired once or twice. I got the impression he mostly works with home bound seniors. When he got here he didn't even know anything about my case or that I had open heart surgery a week ago. One of the test he wanted to do was to test my arm strength. He actually held up his arm (like arm wrestling) and ask me to pull it down as he resisted. Can you believe this??? So, I'm not supposed to push, pull or lift anything 5 lbs or more and he wants to test my arm strength? I told him no way, that I would NOT do that and risk hurting my incision. He's nuts. There were a few other things he said that made me very skeptical of him and his knowledge, plus I think he was kind of rude. Anyway, he left and will not return.
I'm posting this so you get the reality of my day. I don't want all my posts to appear to be sanitized of anything negative. This journey has mostly been positive. I think it's awesome that just one week ago, I got my new valve.
As someone else posted on this site "Onward and upward"
Tammy Pilcher Hey Melinda, Bless your heart! You have had quite the day! I know you were probably thinking that ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Hey Melinda, Bless your heart! You have had quite the day! I know you were probably thinking that PT guy must have been some kind of joke! I sometimes feel like I'm on an episode of Candid Camera. That experience sounds like one too. I hope tomorrow will be better! I was wondering if you remember waking up on the vent. This is one of my little concerns. Your heart sister, Tammy
Melinda Hacker No, I don't remember waking up. I don't remember my first visitors after surgery (my sister and husb ... Read more
Melinda Hacker No, I don't remember waking up. I don't remember my first visitors after surgery (my sister and husband). The nurses told me I wouldn't likely remember them coming in after surgery and I didn't. Actually, later on, my sister was bragging about how good the first night ICU nurse was and I don't remember her at all. I just remember back to that evening throughout the night. I vaguely have a memory hearing someone say "The surgery is over". also, I couldn't eat, but at some point I started on Popsicles. It's like my waking up was gradual. Hope this helps
thank you for sharing Melinda, bless you and your family and I'm so grateful to you for sharing your ... Read more
thank you for sharing Melinda, bless you and your family and I'm so grateful to you for sharing your experiences! :-)
Tammy Pilcher Thank you Melinda. That is what I hoped you would say. I would rather not remember that part.
Trudy Teague Oh Melinda- I completely forgot about the constipation!!! I forgot to warn you!! I had a horrible e ... Read more
Trudy Teague Oh Melinda- I completely forgot about the constipation!!! I forgot to warn you!! I had a horrible experience with it once I got to Florida (about a week and a half or so post-op)- guess from the pain meds? I sent my husband to the pharmacy for suppositories, laxatives, the whole range. I was screaming in pain. So you are not alone! Sounds like things are settling for you and getting better - I am so glad to hear it! Are you keeping up with your breathing / spirometer? Don't feel guilty for napping / resting... your body has been through a lot and it takes a while to get the anesthesia out. Also- just reading your comment above-- I barely remember my time in ICU either. You are so groggy and in and out of it. Did you have the ice chips? I remember being so mad at the nurse when she wouldn't give me more because I was feeling nauseated. My throat was sooo dry- I thought the ice chips were heaven! Are you having any pain at all in your heart or are the meds keeping it at bay? How about the incision area?
thanks for sharing. I'm sorry I almost laughed out loud. Sounds like a my kinda day without heart sur ... Read more
thanks for sharing. I'm sorry I almost laughed out loud. Sounds like a my kinda day without heart surgery.
Linda Crawford Melinda, I really appreciate your candor. You help all of us pre-ops get prepared. Thanks :)
Kathleen McClung Oh boy, your day sounds life my crazy life at home sometimes. lol. I am so greatful for your posts. ... Read more
Kathleen McClung Oh boy, your day sounds life my crazy life at home sometimes. lol. I am so greatful for your posts. Your humor here helps ease some of the anxiety too.
Joaquim Cimoes Dear Melinda, I think your post very important because during the recovery there are good and bad day ... Read more
Joaquim Cimoes Dear Melinda, I think your post very important because during the recovery there are good and bad days. I am preparing to care my little son, he´s 2 years old. Hugs from Brazil for you.
Joan Napier I love your candor too, Melinda! It's obvious your openness and humor with these challenging days wil ... Read more
Joan Napier I love your candor too, Melinda! It's obvious your openness and humor with these challenging days will get you over the bumps in the road. We all try to stay positive here, and put our best foot forward. However, telling it like it is on a not so great day reminds us that it's ok to vent when things aren't going as we had hoped! Thank you for sharing. :)
Ilsa Kaattari Melinda, my husband, Stephen, is having his surgery on Friday, October 31. I appreciate your honesty ... Read more
Ilsa Kaattari Melinda, my husband, Stephen, is having his surgery on Friday, October 31. I appreciate your honesty and humor. I worry that the pain will overwhelm my husband, who while the love of my life, has never been an "easy" sick person.
Susan Ericsson Melinda it is true that people, even nice ones, can just wear you out. I am constantly surprised by f ... Read more
Susan Ericsson Melinda it is true that people, even nice ones, can just wear you out. I am constantly surprised by fatigue. I will say, never underestimate the power of prunes!!
Melinda Hacker Prunes! Great idea. I actually like them too.
Ruth Valenzuela Boil them and drink the water in addition to eating the prunes.. Magical...
This morning was a success. My husband got off to work and my son got off to PreK. I was a bit exhausted when they walked out the door, but all is good. ...Read more
This morning was a success. My husband got off to work and my son got off to PreK. I was a bit exhausted when they walked out the door, but all is good.
For those of you making plans for post- op, be prepared with button up shirts. I haven't even attempted putting on a pullover shirt. At this point, pullovers are out of the question. Other items that I find necessary are a hand held shower head, extra bath mats (to avoid any slipping), recliner and lots of pillows. Stretch pants are good too. Just the simple buttoning of pants puts a slight strain on the chest area, so elastic waistbands are good.
That's all for now. Let the healing continue!
Melinda, you are a trooper. I wish you much rest today. Having a small child to care for must be a ... Read more
Melinda, you are a trooper. I wish you much rest today. Having a small child to care for must be a challenge at this time when you are recovering from such a big surgery. I'm going to remember the button down shirt idea when my time comes for surgery. Feel better. Sending you healing thoughts.
wow thank you for all that info. I wonder if Adam has a list somewhere? Keep going, God Bless You !
What about a bra ? Can you wear one ?
Eleanor R You sound like you have it under control Malinda. More than I did, since I didn't have a PreK child ... Read more
Eleanor R You sound like you have it under control Malinda. More than I did, since I didn't have a PreK child to help get off to school. You are right about the loose clothing that is easy to get on. That was a big struggle for me, since we can't raise our arms much without the chest muscles yelling STOP. Keep up your steady healing, it is a pleasure to hear you are doing well. Eleanor
Melinda Hacker Kathryn, the hospital gave me a front closure bra that is similar to a sports bra. I wore it home fr ... Read more
Melinda Hacker Kathryn, the hospital gave me a front closure bra that is similar to a sports bra. I wore it home from the hospital. Since I got home, I opted to not wear a bra unless I go somewhere. The idea is to keep the incision aired out and dry to promote healing. My choice is no bra :)
Nancy D a front closing soft bra without wire is a good option to have when you are outside walking or going ... Read more
Nancy D a front closing soft bra without wire is a good option to have when you are outside walking or going to dr appt. I didn't have OHS, I have an incision on the right side of my right breast and find that now even without wires, most bras have a seam that hits right along my incision, so I have now opted for soft Hanes sports/sleep bras most days. Initially nothing felt good on the incision. Couldn't find a front closing soft seamless bra at the last minute- there was some on line....so took the wire out of an old front closure bra for immediate post op. I also found sleep pants or sleep shorts necessary for those first walks in the halls, and for in bed at the hospital. ;-)
Melinda- so glad you are home and doing well!!
Eleanor R Me, too. I had ordered soft camisoles, one light, one dark, and I wore them under shirts, and even t ... Read more
Eleanor R Me, too. I had ordered soft camisoles, one light, one dark, and I wore them under shirts, and even though it felt a little weird, I didn't even try a bra until the drainage openings fully closed. I worried about them more than the incision itself, which was front and center and I could keep an eye on it. The other two little openings I kept light gauze on until they finally closed and I felt ok with a bra rubbing that area. Now I can hardly find the little scars.
Joan Napier Sounds like you are right on track with your recovery! And thank you, Melinda and all, for the post ... Read more
Joan Napier Sounds like you are right on track with your recovery! And thank you, Melinda and all, for the post op tips. I have made note of your advice.
Kathleen McClung Thanks for the suggestions. I am starting to make lists of these things. I need some button shirts a ... Read more
Kathleen McClung Thanks for the suggestions. I am starting to make lists of these things. I need some button shirts and the thought of no bra freaks me but wearing one does too. Do you have someone home with you for now? I think I will have to. I have 2 kids in school (12 & 8) but I also have a 4 and 2 year old.
Please keep on updating for us. It's been so helpful.
Melinda Hacker Kathleen, I have had someone with me the whole time. My sister has been by my side since the day bef ... Read more
Melinda Hacker Kathleen, I have had someone with me the whole time. My sister has been by my side since the day before my surgery, which was one week ago today. She had to go back home to AL last night. Now, it's me, my husband and 4 yo. You will need help. I hope you 12 & 8 yo can help you with your 4 & 2 yo. You have to have assistance. I've been told and read, don't try to be a super hero when you get home. During the days while my husband and son are away at work and school, I have a friend who will be staying with me part of my days. At least for now. As my healing improves, I my just stay alone, I'm not sure yet on my weeks to come.
Kathleen McClung Thanks. I was thinking you were alone and a super hero! :) I think my inlaws are coming to help wit ... Read more
Kathleen McClung Thanks. I was thinking you were alone and a super hero! :) I think my inlaws are coming to help with kids and stay here. My husband will try and take a week off too.
April Smith Thanks for your valuable information. Having surgery tomorrow and yesterday was wondering about how t ... Read more
April Smith Thanks for your valuable information. Having surgery tomorrow and yesterday was wondering about how to put shirts on and about wearing a bra as well. I think I may need to go get a few shirts today. I mostly have pullover shirts and sweaters. Yesterday while doing my hair I wondered about that as well. Are you able to blow dry and style your hair?
Melinda Hacker Kathleen, I thought I would be alone starting today, one-week post op, but my husband has reached out ... Read more
Melinda Hacker Kathleen, I thought I would be alone starting today, one-week post op, but my husband has reached out to friends to share time with me to fill my days until he gets home from work. It's really better to have someone with you to help get things for you and if you have any type of emergency situation arise. So far, so good for me.
Melinda Hacker April, doing my hair is very very minimal. I can't wash my hair due to the limited use I have of my ... Read more
Melinda Hacker April, doing my hair is very very minimal. I can't wash my hair due to the limited use I have of my arms. Of course, everyone is different, So what I do is I put a chair in my shower and my husband has the duty of washing my hair for me. I find, A hand held shower head is a must. I haven't used a blowdryer since surgery. I'm keeping it simple and now my husband can even put my hair up in a ponytail. He has been a trooper.
Melinda Hacker To all preparing, another thing that has come up these past 3 days is getting things I need to have a ... Read more
Melinda Hacker To all preparing, another thing that has come up these past 3 days is getting things I need to have access to easily off high shelves and off the top rack in my clothes closet. Be prepared with a laxative too. All the medicine from the hospital stay stops up the plumbing.
What a wonderful day it is! I was released from the hospital today and made the two hour trip home. We took a lunch break half way home to let me walk around ...Read more
What a wonderful day it is! I was released from the hospital today and made the two hour trip home. We took a lunch break half way home to let me walk around a bit.
I am so amazed that just 4 days ago I had open heart surgery. Now, I definitely have a long road ahead of me to recover. I have to take things easy and not over do it. Not using my arms much will be a challenge. No driving for 4 weeks minimum. No lifting, pushing or pulling anything 5 lbs or more for 2 weeks. I go for a two-week follow up with surgeon to get further instructions. Until then, I also have to weigh myself daily, check temp. daily, use spirometer and walk.
I think my power recliner will be my new best friend for the next 8 weeks. That's okay. I thank the good Lord above for a successful surgery. I can't say enough good things about Dr. Accola and the team at Florida Hospital.
Nancy D Welcome home!! Concentrate on YOU now, walk, eat well, deep breathe and REST! It is a journey but I ... Read more
Nancy D Welcome home!! Concentrate on YOU now, walk, eat well, deep breathe and REST! It is a journey but I hope yours is uneventful and complete!! Keep us posted!
bob Greene Thank you for this post. My journey is just beginning. I am not yet at the point of picking a surgeo ... Read more
bob Greene Thank you for this post. My journey is just beginning. I am not yet at the point of picking a surgeon but Dr accola is on the top of my list. God bless you during your recovery
Tammy Pilcher Melinda, I sure hope I do as well as you have! You have made my wait a lot easier because now I know ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Melinda, I sure hope I do as well as you have! You have made my wait a lot easier because now I know what to expect. I hope your recovery continues to go smoothly. Thanks for the updates!
Melinda Hacker Tammy, if I can help one person like you, these posts are worth it. Reading all the posts and follow ... Read more
Melinda Hacker Tammy, if I can help one person like you, these posts are worth it. Reading all the posts and following others helped me a ton!!
Eleanor R How happy you must be to be back home. Now the healing can begin as you gain in strength each day, a ... Read more
Eleanor R How happy you must be to be back home. Now the healing can begin as you gain in strength each day, and recover and exceed what you could do before. Your body will let you know how you're doing, and if you are over reaching, or stretching your arms too much, and you will self correct. Regaining autonomy is sweet too. Best wishes for continued recovery. Eleanor
D. Carol Moore Congratulations on a successful surgery! You are blessed. Keep smiling and do walk. God is good an ... Read more
D. Carol Moore Congratulations on a successful surgery! You are blessed. Keep smiling and do walk. God is good and He is faithful to fulfill His promises...believe God.
Much Love, Carol
Joan Napier So good to hear that you're already home. Wishing you a very smooth and uneventful recovery. Please k ... Read more
Joan Napier So good to hear that you're already home. Wishing you a very smooth and uneventful recovery. Please keep us posted.
Trudy Teague That is amazing, Melinda- home after 4 days!!!!!
Today started out a bit rough. My blood count was down from some bleeding right after surgery. My body wasn't rebuilding blood fast enough so I had to have ...Read more
Today started out a bit rough. My blood count was down from some bleeding right after surgery. My body wasn't rebuilding blood fast enough so I had to have a pint of blood this morning. After that, I began to feel a lot better and was moved from ICU to a step down room. I got the port removed from my neck. (Forgive me for not knowing the proper medical terminology). They also removed my A-line. I'm still hooked up to a portable EKG that is continually monitored while I'm here at the hospital. So all these things are coming off of me! What a relief it is! Tomorrow will be a new day. I will get another chest X-ray early in the morning to see if my lungs are all clear. Today's X-ray showed a bit a fluid remaining in my left lung. I have to keep using the spirometer to clear my lungs. It's a chore but I have to do it! My incision is only about 4 inches. I thought it would much larger. I'm definitely pleased with that❤️. i hope this post will be helpful to those of you about to have surgery. You all can do this! I'm just thrilled that we live in a time and a place with so much advanced medical care. It's truly amazing to see things happening at Florida Hospital.
Debbie Mullin Fantastic, Melinda!! Prayers that you'll continue to improve each day! Gentle hugs!
Eleanor R It is good to hear you sounding so well, and positive Melinda, and as a person born in Florida but li ... Read more
Eleanor R It is good to hear you sounding so well, and positive Melinda, and as a person born in Florida but living in the DC area, I am pleased to know there are good surgeons and hospitals in Florida. Glad you got excellent treatment and are on the healing path. Keep going. Eleanor
Adam Pick Yeah Melinda! I could not be happier right now. Woo-Whoo. Happy Dance! Fyi, I had some fluid in my lu ... Read more
Adam Pick Yeah Melinda! I could not be happier right now. Woo-Whoo. Happy Dance! Fyi, I had some fluid in my lungs as well. That is when I became best buddies with the incentive spirometer. :) Also, thanks for the inspiring words to all the patients who are preparing for surgery. Very, very, very thoughtful of you. :)
Tammy Pilcher Yay Melinda, it's so good to hear you're doing well!! You are giving me much hope!! I'm keeping you ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Yay Melinda, it's so good to hear you're doing well!! You are giving me much hope!! I'm keeping you in my prayers for a speedy recovery.
Thank You so much. Grateful as well !
Elaine Foster Thanks for the update Melinda. Continue to pray for you, take it a day at a time. God Bless You
Pat DeBruce Melinda: one day at a time is certainly a great way to get through these initial days. Blessings! Kee ... Read more
Pat DeBruce Melinda: one day at a time is certainly a great way to get through these initial days. Blessings! Keep us updated!
It has been a busy day. Arrived at 8:45 to begin pre op tests. It started with blood work, urinalysis, chest X-ray and ended with a CT scan. Now I get to ...Read more
It has been a busy day. Arrived at 8:45 to begin pre op tests. It started with blood work, urinalysis, chest X-ray and ended with a CT scan. Now I get to relax this evening.
I have special shower soap to shower with tonight and in the morning before heading to the hospital.
I hope to get a night of sleep tonight. I will send an update once I'm able to.
Dan Sinclair The best of outcomes to you Melinda ! We are all pulling for you. Good Luck on the Good Nights Sleep. ... Read more
Dan Sinclair The best of outcomes to you Melinda ! We are all pulling for you. Good Luck on the Good Nights Sleep....
Eleanor R Are you staying in the hospital overnight, or do they allow you to go home or to a hotel? I remember ... Read more
Eleanor R Are you staying in the hospital overnight, or do they allow you to go home or to a hotel? I remember the special soap very well, not much lather but a great feeling of taking care of yourself and contributing a small part to a very good outcome. I wish you the very best tomorrow and a steady recovery. Eleanor
Melinda Hacker I'm staying at a hotel on the hospital campus. Thank you!!
Susan Ericsson Thinking of you and praying for sleep and a great outcome tomorrow.
Adam Pick Relax and sleep well tonight Melinda. Your heart will be fixed tomorrow! :)
Joan Napier Melinda, you are in my thoughts and prayers as you prepare for surgery tomorrow. May God bless you an ... Read more
Joan Napier Melinda, you are in my thoughts and prayers as you prepare for surgery tomorrow. May God bless you and keep you close. Trust that all will be well. You are in good hands. Joan
you will be in my highest thoughts and prayers, blessings to you and your family and may the surgery ... Read more
you will be in my highest thoughts and prayers, blessings to you and your family and may the surgery go awesome-ly and soon on the road to recovery!
Jim Hernandez May you rest easy and that tomm will be over before you know it.
It's starting to feel real! Just one more day of work. I go for testing on Monday and Tuesday is the big day!
Eleanor R Wishing you the best outcome with the tests and the surgery, take good care of yourself and let us kn ... Read more
Eleanor R Wishing you the best outcome with the tests and the surgery, take good care of yourself and let us know how it goes. Thoughts and prayers with you. Eleanor
You got this Melinda! :)
Jayne Martinko Melinda, you will do great. Looking forward to following your story. I will be joining you on the oth ... Read more
Jayne Martinko Melinda, you will do great. Looking forward to following your story. I will be joining you on the other side in less then 2 weeks. Actually looking forward to seeing my name on the upcoming surgeries list. Means I am on the launch pad. Prayers and virtual hugs to you!
Sending you my best prayers and in my highest thoughts Melinda, for a wonderful outcome and recovery! ... Read more
Sending you my best prayers and in my highest thoughts Melinda, for a wonderful outcome and recovery!
Joseph Ballett Stay strong i know you hear it alot but you will be fine, we can all do this
Melinda Hacker Thanks for the encouragement! I CAN do this!
Joan Napier Melinda, Prayers and positive thoughts are with you this weekend as you prepare for surgery. Hope yo ... Read more
Joan Napier Melinda, Prayers and positive thoughts are with you this weekend as you prepare for surgery. Hope you can find some time to do something fun with your little guy!
Dan Sinclair Positive vibes from across the bridge, Every little thing gonna be alright!
Lenore Mitchell Good thoughts speeding your way. You'll soon be on the road to recovery.
Holly Geary Good Luck tomorrow. You are going to do great. I am 7 weeks out from AVR and Aneurysm resection and f ... Read more
Holly Geary Good Luck tomorrow. You are going to do great. I am 7 weeks out from AVR and Aneurysm resection and feeling great!
Joseph Ballett best of luck tomorrow will be thinking of you
10 days to wait. Any advice from those who have gone through AVR would be greatly appreciated!
Clare Auten Welcome! I read your story. I was 45 when I had my surgery 9 months ago..and my youngest was 4. Read ... Read more
Clare Auten Welcome! I read your story. I was 45 when I had my surgery 9 months ago..and my youngest was 4. Read some journals. There is a lot of good advice in them. Also, ask if you have specific questions. Best of luck next week. We will keep you in our prayers.
Tammy Pilcher Hi Melinda, I just read your story and saw that your doctor is Dr. Accola. I'm hoping to get Dr. Acc ... Read more
Tammy Pilcher Hi Melinda, I just read your story and saw that your doctor is Dr. Accola. I'm hoping to get Dr. Accola to do my AVR also. I haven't contacted him yet, because my cardiologist said we would contact a surgeon after I have my CT scan and heart cath. next Friday. He said then we will know if anything else has to be done. I was wondering how long it took for you to get an appointment with Dr. Accola and then how long to get a surgery date? My doctor says I need to have this done before the end of the year, so I just hope I'll be able to get Dr. Accola. Also, what kind of valve are you going with? Thank you, Tammy
Daniel Spurgeon I had OHS to replace my aortic root, and fortunate reuse my natural valve. The pre surgery anxiety w ... Read more
Daniel Spurgeon I had OHS to replace my aortic root, and fortunate reuse my natural valve. The pre surgery anxiety was worse than the procedure or recovery.
Daniel Spurgeon My family brought me a poster of family pictures which they were allowed to hang up in my rooms. It ... Read more
Daniel Spurgeon My family brought me a poster of family pictures which they were allowed to hang up in my rooms. It was nice for the hours when I didn't have any visitors. I also had movies available to watch on Netflix through the hospital wifi, but didn't feel like watching any.
Pulling for you Melinda!
Kathleen McClung Following your story. I am in St Augustine, FL and was told last week they are referring me to a su ... Read more
Kathleen McClung Following your story. I am in St Augustine, FL and was told last week they are referring me to a surgeon. I also have BAV that was only found last year. I am 41 and have 4 children. Youngest is 2.
Eleanor R Welcome Melinda. You are welcome to read my journals - I wrote a lot about preparing for AVR surgery ... Read more
Eleanor R Welcome Melinda. You are welcome to read my journals - I wrote a lot about preparing for AVR surgery, especially in May/June of this year. I am almost 3 months post surgery and doing great. Eleanor
I read that ear plugs ,sleep mask and boxer shorts to wear under your gown was good to take, and chap ... Read more
I read that ear plugs ,sleep mask and boxer shorts to wear under your gown was good to take, and chap stick. I haven't had surgery yet. God bless You !
Hacker was my great grandparents name.
Melinda Hacker Thanks Kathryn. Good things to take I'm sure.