Well i never thought this day wouid come, but here it is. Year to the day of my life changing surgery. I have seen my heart consultant amd a team from St Thomas', ...Read more
Well i never thought this day wouid come, but here it is. Year to the day of my life changing surgery. I have seen my heart consultant amd a team from St Thomas', , in March, amd they are very happy with how my heart is functioning especially after the problems following surgery. They are also saddened by the fact that i will never reap the benefits of the improved function due to my throat/breathing issues caused in Icu.
Im back to see the ENT again this month for more videos of my throat to check if it hasnt become worse. Im praying that it is the same as i really dont want to lose my speech altogether and have to go through the trauma of another tracheostomy and surgery to suport ny windpipe.
How would i shout at my husband to bring me up.a cup of tea? 🤣
Im feeling the same so im sure it will be ok.
Still waiting on work to officially exit me from the company so I'm in limbo really.
Still attending the Critcal Care meetings which have been a huge help.
Well i hope i sleep well tinight. My mind has been going crazy all day, going over it bit by bit, up until speaking to some doctors in tbe side room, just before they wheeled me through the door under the lights, that i could see behind them...... and then nothing.
There wont be any celebration of this suregry as i will be celebrating when i left icu three weeks later. This is the day i got ny life back.
Barbara Laurie Nicola, You have been very strong through this whole ordeal. I get how you feel about celebrating. I ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Nicola, You have been very strong through this whole ordeal. I get how you feel about celebrating. I celebrated for Dave's sake, plus we had a gift card to Cheesecake Factory!😉 I'm glad you feel you do have your life back, even with the disability you are doing all you can to appreciate and enjoy the life you have. You are a go getter, someone who doesn't give up or give in, you are smart to keep going to the Critical Care Meetings, a fabulous idea! 💕 You know you are in my â¤ï¸ heart...I am cheering you on kiddo, my little heart sister🌼🌿Love Love
Wanda Mroz Nicola you've been through a lot. Wow. Yet you have a great and optimistic attitude. That's wonder ... Read more
Wanda Mroz Nicola you've been through a lot. Wow. Yet you have a great and optimistic attitude. That's wonderful. Wishing you some days with good news and happiness. Hugs and prayers.💞ðŸ™ðŸ»
Rita Savelis Nicola, it's your humor that gets you through, and I always welcome reading your posts.
I'm with you ... Read more
Rita Savelis Nicola, it's your humor that gets you through, and I always welcome reading your posts.
I'm with you on celebrating anniversaries of exits from ICU.
Take care, and stay strong.
Well what can I say. I'm obviously in for the long haul of bad news.
Breezed into the hospital for what I thought would be a quick routine scan of my kidneys. ...Read more
Well what can I say. I'm obviously in for the long haul of bad news.
Breezed into the hospital for what I thought would be a quick routine scan of my kidneys. I have suffered with kidney disease since at least 2000. It could be longer but that was the first time it had been flagged up to me. My tests have been so stable since then that the consultant passed me over to my Dr to do the yearly tests.
So the scan goes ahead due to acute kidney injury in ICU and being on dialisysis. The tests my Dr preformed before Christmas were all petty much back to pre surgery so I wasn't expecting anything wrong to show.
The scan showed that my right kidney has shrunk and basically given up working. My left kidney is not functioning to its full capacity. There are also 5 water filled cysts on my kidneys. The good news is that there was no nasty tumours or cancer showing. So now I sit and wait to see my Dr regarding the report the hospital send out. Thank goodness I'm going away for a couple of weeks. I don't think I can cope with any more bad news! And if they request to look at my lungs I'm running away and hiding!
Barbara Wood So sorry, Nicola, for such grim news. Sending positive vibes your way!
Rita Savelis Oh, gosh, you so need to get away and have a vacation from all this news.
Take care, Nicola.
Phyllis Petersen Oh Nicola! You've had such a tough journey and can't even see the end of the road yet. Enjoy your tim ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen Oh Nicola! You've had such a tough journey and can't even see the end of the road yet. Enjoy your time away with your husband! I'll be praying for a miracle for you. You so need some good news.
Sophia Ridley Oh Nicola, I'm sorry to hear the news of your kidney. Have they given you any explanation how it can ... Read more
Sophia Ridley Oh Nicola, I'm sorry to hear the news of your kidney. Have they given you any explanation how it can change so quickly? Your trip sounds wonderful and hopefully will help put this out of your mind until you're back. Thinking of you x
Lilly Black So sorry to hear Nicole. I hope you can find the courage to get through each obstacle you encounter! ... Read more
Lilly Black So sorry to hear Nicole. I hope you can find the courage to get through each obstacle you encounter! At least during your time away try to chill and enjoy each day! I wish you the best outcome!
Shannon Gray Oh Nicole...I am so sorry. I have adopted the saying from "FindingNemo", when Dory keeps singing "Jus ... Read more
Shannon Gray Oh Nicole...I am so sorry. I have adopted the saying from "FindingNemo", when Dory keeps singing "Just keep swimming".... Prayers for you and just take things one step at a time.
Barbara Laurie Nicola, â¤how did I miss, in all our "chats" that you had dialysis? ! I'm feeling so bad that I miss ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Nicola, â¤how did I miss, in all our "chats" that you had dialysis? ! I'm feeling so bad that I missed that hon🙠Our surgeries were so similar I am following the DAVITA web site, it helps me keep up on my numbers. Maybe you've seen it? You know you are in our prayers. 🦋â¤
Nicola Laker Don't worry Barbara. To be honest I didn't think much of it as the consultants haven't really menti ... Read more
Nicola Laker Don't worry Barbara. To be honest I didn't think much of it as the consultants haven't really mentioned much about that. Think my throat and breathing took their priority. Obviously now they will probably jump all over it. I haven't seen that website but I'm going. Going look at it now.
I've been chilling the ladt couple of days and catching up on sleep due to time difference. It's very strong sun and never had heat like it! Rather be here than home though whete it's freezing cold and trying to snow! Xx
I walked into the appointment on my own under the asumption, that the ent consultant i saw back on August had basically told me that my right vocal chord was ...Read more
I walked into the appointment on my own under the asumption, that the ent consultant i saw back on August had basically told me that my right vocal chord was paralysed, and that this was supposed to be finding out which method of help would be best for me to help my speech. Unfortunately this wasn't the case. The diagnosis was completely diffetent and far worse.
Both my vocal chords are working...which is good. But at the top, it's been so severely damaged, it's healed but so tight that my chords won't close, hence the speech/sound issue, and they don't open fully which makes my breathing hard as only have half my airway open. This is mainly what is restricting me from walking up any gradient or stairs. Cold weather, dry heat all makes it worse. And trying to sing or even hum sounds terrible and get out of breathe. I thought making my chords work harder they might work better but apparently it won't.
I'm glad that I now know but on the other hand it's not what I wanted to hear.
They could try and laser it but it comes with a huge risk of it healing from that and being even tighter. That would cause complete block of airways and would have to have another trachy. I really don't want to go down that route again. That would also mean further surgery to my windpipe to support it and most likely no voice/speech at all. It might work but it's a risk right now I'm not prepared to take. I'm seeing him again in 4 months and will have another chat and see how it is. He said if I get a sore throat and breathing gets worse, go straight to hospital for steroids and a nebuliser. Great. Another thing I need to add to my ever growing travel medical insurance! Apparently it's quite rare to happen and I'm special. Shame special doesn't make it better though 😣😣😣😣
I attended a return to work meeting and had just told them my new diagnosis, and they made a decision there and then. They are not taking me back. Goodness knows who will employ me now but im sure i will find something else eventually. Pretty rough week all in all 😣 But hey, onwards and upwards and not having to go to work is a good thing. More time to spend doing what I like 😊
Steve Farthing Nicola - Very sorry to hear you have to deal with this. Here's hoping something eventually helps.
Nicola Laker Thanks Steve. I just keep telling myself that if I hadn't had the tube stuck down my throat I wouldn ... Read more
Nicola Laker Thanks Steve. I just keep telling myself that if I hadn't had the tube stuck down my throat I wouldn't be here now. Icu saved my life so I can't argue with that. I'm just frustrated that my speech is so poor and people can't hear me properly. That and not being able to sing. But on the other hand, I'm alive 😊 One day I suppose it will become 'the norm'. Until then, of anyone dares ask me, if I have a sore throat/cold/chest infection again, I will go crazy 😂 I would have said shout but that's not possible 😉
Steve Farthing You're in my thoughts. Best to both of you.
Catie B Oh Nicola, what daunting news. I am so sorry. I do hope there will somehow be a remedy. Are there any ... Read more
Catie B Oh Nicola, what daunting news. I am so sorry. I do hope there will somehow be a remedy. Are there any other specialists you can see?
Tina Maroon So I was reading your post. What happened to your vocal cords and what is happening that is causing y ... Read more
Tina Maroon So I was reading your post. What happened to your vocal cords and what is happening that is causing you your exertion problems. I was a little confused. I hope and pray that you will be ok. Sorry your going through so much trouble.
Rita Savelis Oh, Nicola, so sorry to hear this bad news.
As you said, ICU saved your life, but left this. I'd be ... Read more
Rita Savelis Oh, Nicola, so sorry to hear this bad news.
As you said, ICU saved your life, but left this. I'd be angry too. And frustrated.
You'll take the next steps, and your ability to laugh will get you through.
Take care and **** your job for not taking you back!
Phyllis Petersen I'm sorry to hear that they didn't have a better solution for you. And then for your job to do that t ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen I'm sorry to hear that they didn't have a better solution for you. And then for your job to do that to you too. I can only imagine how you must feel.
Nicola Laker Tina the vocal chords are severely damaged whilst in ICU. It's healed so tightly at that my chords d ... Read more
Nicola Laker Tina the vocal chords are severely damaged whilst in ICU. It's healed so tightly at that my chords don't close and touch which affects my speech and they only open half way which stops my airways from getting enough air. This in turn means my lungs can't inflate properly and haven't since surgery. Its very frustrating and tiring but I will have to learn to live with it unfortunately.
Nicola Laker Cate it was a specialist I saw. But I'm going to speak to my lovely icu consultant and find out if t ... Read more
Nicola Laker Cate it was a specialist I saw. But I'm going to speak to my lovely icu consultant and find out if there is anyone who might be able to help me with breathing. I can be talking and then have to stop as I have no air left to breathe out so I just want to find out of someone can help me with different breathing techniques. I doubt it will help as even the speech therapist told me it was pointless her trying to help me as I didnt have the breathe. It's all pretty dismal news but I'm going go ask the question anyway as you never know!
Nicola Laker Rita...I think work might have done me a favour.
Phyllis it was the straw that broke the camels bac ... Read more
Nicola Laker Rita...I think work might have done me a favour.
Phyllis it was the straw that broke the camels back for the week. It's been one thing after another. So by rights, we should start getting some good news now!
I'm just going to have to move on now and try and make the best of what we have. My wonderful husband is right beside me all the way with what ever i decide to do. He has been absolutely amazing.
Phyllis Petersen I'm glad to hear that you have a strong supportive husband by your side. Love can get you through so ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen I'm glad to hear that you have a strong supportive husband by your side. Love can get you through so much more than you think you can handle. Prayers and hugs!
Catie B I'm really glad you have a supportive spouse, Nicola. It's been some very tough news and you're indee ... Read more
Catie B I'm really glad you have a supportive spouse, Nicola. It's been some very tough news and you're indeed overdue for some encouragement.
I hope the ICU consultant knows of someone helpful.
For what it's worth, just this week, I noticed there are quite a number of physical therapists and others who have blogged and created videos demonstrating breathing exercises for people with pulmonary issues. Best to you!
My ICU consultant has badgered the ENT and finally, after waiting since my referral in August, my ENT appointment is this week on the 25th August.
I still ...Read more
My ICU consultant has badgered the ENT and finally, after waiting since my referral in August, my ENT appointment is this week on the 25th August.
I still have no proper voice and I can't see my vocal chord suddenly springing info life after all this time. But I am hoping that they can do something that will make my voice sound better and people can understand what I'm saying. Mostly, I would love to be able I sing again. Never thought I would miss that so much.
Fingers crossed!!!
Barbara Laurie Nicola, Dave and I have both prayed that the Doctor will have some ideas. ⤠please keep us updated ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Nicola, Dave and I have both prayed that the Doctor will have some ideas. ⤠please keep us updated when you can honâŒâ•ï¸
Phyllis Petersen Singing is such joy! I'll keep you in my prayers that the ENT will have a solution for you.
Myself and my husband went to a meeting with other ICU patients and run by two consultants, one of which looked after me during my 3 week stint in ICU. I had ...Read more
Myself and my husband went to a meeting with other ICU patients and run by two consultants, one of which looked after me during my 3 week stint in ICU. I had a fantastic nurse who looked after me on a few occasions, washed my hair, helped wean off my tracheostomy and generally was my angel. I finally got to see her again at this meeting. It was lovely to be be able to speak to her for the first time and say thankyou for everything she had done for me and my husband.
The meeting was a very good experience. I was the only one who had heart surgery but it was lovely to hear people's experiences of ICU and I believe this has finally helped me put a lot of this to rest. Except for not being able to sleep in the dark. I'm not over that one yet.
The consultant wasn't happy that ENT still haven't seen me and will be making a complaint. To date, still no appointment. I will ring him this week as I have been away the last couple of weeks, and he said that he can get me seen in London within a week. It's more of a journey, but I would go to the other side of the world if it meant I can get some of my voice back. The left vocal chord has got stronger but my right is still paralysed. Therefore I still sound hoarse, can't sing and can't shout. It's frustrating and tiring.
So to date in still waiting for ENT, kidney scan and appointment with my heart consultant. I'm still having breathing issues but not sure how they are moving forward with that. I think they are waiting on the ent results first before they start on the lungs
Still get terrible chest pain and I'm sure people think I'm making it up. 6 months now and even this morning as I went to get out of bed, I got a seering pain through my chest. And it's still tender to touch. Does anyone else still suffer with pain after this long? Lifting and vacuuming are still painful too. Can't lay on my sides and laying on my front is not too bad but it's getting onto my front and back up which causes more of the problems!
My heart seems to be ticking over quite nicely. It still seems strange that I don't feel it thumping and having one of the extra pathways ablated, I miss my fluttery sensations too. What I have found is that when I do get palpations, which are nothing like I used to have, they are more noticeable because my heart seems so quiet now.
I'm back for another session with the peer support group in January. And I think this will be even more beneficial as I feel I'm losing my mother. It's tearing me apart as I can't do anything for her. The extra support is great to have around me and the consultant is really on the ball.
Darlene Smith I don't have the chest pain you describe, but it sounds entirely within reason that you could still b ... Read more
Darlene Smith I don't have the chest pain you describe, but it sounds entirely within reason that you could still be having it even after 6 months. Everyone is different, so I hope your physician listens to you. And hope that they resolve the vocal cord issue. That must be so frustrating. Your peer support group sounds wonderful. I haven't heard of these types of sessions here in the US. Your vacation sounds wonderful too as we had snow here last night. :-)
Barbara Laurie Nicola, 💕Thanks for the update. You are in my prayers. Glad your vacation was nice! As soon as I c ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Nicola, 💕Thanks for the update. You are in my prayers. Glad your vacation was nice! As soon as I can I'll message you, it's hard to type right hand! â¤ï¸ï¸ðŸ˜˜
Nicola Laker Barbara I understand you not being able to type. As long as your ok that's all I worry about! It's b ... Read more
Nicola Laker Barbara I understand you not being able to type. As long as your ok that's all I worry about! It's been a bit manic here with everything going going on and now the added problem of my poorly mum hence I haven't messaged you, but i promise to do so! Hope your are feeling OK and everything is going well. â¤â¤â¤ xx
Nicola Laker Darlene the peer support group started in October and the first one went so well that they are going ... Read more
Nicola Laker Darlene the peer support group started in October and the first one went so well that they are going to do them quarterly. And they have added another hour on as we all got on so well and held nothing back . It is useful to the consultants too as thy get a better understanding of how we felt and how they can possibly help us through these emotions etc. It's not an experience I wanted to relive to be honest but in doing so, it definitely helped me come to terms with it. My husband was a bit sceptical as he wouldn't talk
about it but since being there and openly talking about how he felt through the 3 weeks of hell, he now answers the questions I ask instead of telling me it's over with and to forget about it. I think they should do these sort of groups for heart surgery patients too. I might suggest that to the hospital! X
Rita Savelis Hearing about your peer support group makes me long for the 4 years I spent in London where I found t ... Read more
Rita Savelis Hearing about your peer support group makes me long for the 4 years I spent in London where I found the care, and especially emotional care, was so well organised and thought out.
Unless you've lived somewhere else, you don't always realise how forward-thinking the English medical system is.
I would have loved a forum for working out the major emotional trauma that the ICU unit was for me.
I have never gotten my lung capacity back after OHS, don't know if it's because of the 4 pleural effusions I had which probably caused scarring/fibrosis. My cardiologist seems to only be interested/knowledgeable about the heart, alas.
Sorry about your pain. I didn't have pain but real discomfort in the chest for a long time. I still feel it 18 months later if I carry anything even slightly heavy.
I saw this on a other fb page so had a look on the Internet to find out more. Very interesting read for Ebsteins and anyone else with Tricuspid TR.
http://www.valtechcardio.com/2016/09/valtech-cardio-presents-cardioband-tricuspid-successful-first-in-man-cases-and-2-year-cardioband-mitral-data-at-pcr-london-valves-2016/ ...Read more
I saw this on a other fb page so had a look on the Internet to find out more. Very interesting read for Ebsteins and anyone else with Tricuspid TR.
http://www.valtechcardio.com/2016/09/valtech-cardio-presents-cardioband-tricuspid-successful-first-in-man-cases-and-2-year-cardioband-mitral-data-at-pcr-london-valves-2016/
Barbara Laurie Thanks Heart warrior sister!! I'll look at that😄!
I was asked to attend this appointment by one of the Critical Care Consultants who looked after me during my stay there. It was a long day discussing my illness, ...Read more
I was asked to attend this appointment by one of the Critical Care Consultants who looked after me during my stay there. It was a long day discussing my illness, operation and unfortunate post op circumstances with various Dr's, physiotherapists, psychologist and occupational health. It was very informative and I feel talking through what happened has helped me, especially having things explained. Memories come back at the most unexpected times and it does make you question yourself if you are going mad and what was actually real and what was either hallucinations or just bad dreams.
I told the Dr everything that I could remember. The Dr and one of the psychologists was very keen to hear everything and put my mind at rest that I haven't lost the plot yet!
The discussion moved onto the complications and apart from the obvious damage to my vocal chord, there is a possibility that there may be some damage to my windpipe to. They are chasing up my ENT appointment for me and are keen for me to let them know if it's still not sorted so they can refer me to Guys Hospital. Also, apart from already having iga-nephorathy (kidney disease) before my op, i now have scarring on my kidneys. My lungs are still not working to full capacity so they want to get those checked over. Finally my heart, which has caused all these other problems, is actually doing very well. But as my local consultant hadn't seen me since I've been out, they will get that sorted for me otherwise I won't see them until next year and they are not happy with waiting that long.
The Dr also mentioned some jab that I need to have as well as the flu one (which I have ever year anyway). Can't remember what it's called but they are contacting my Dr on my behalf regarding getting this done.
The occupational health & physiotherapist were very good and are arranging a sliding board that I can use to help me get in and out the bath on my own. I then went into see a psychologist on a one to one without any Dr's etc. It was a tearful time but helpful in understanding that what I'm feeling is natural after such trauma.
Finally I braced myself and walked into the ICU until and stood in the room looking at the bed I spent 3 weeks in. All very surreal!! It was unfortunate that I didn't get to see many of the fabulous nurses that looked after me (and my husband) as they were either on a different ward or not on day shift. I did have a lovely meeting with one of my physios. I even had a photo of the 'star patient' badge they made me (which I still have somewhere!) which I showed her. She said she would never would of recognised me as I looked so well. We did have a few giggles, well I couldn't actually giggle with them until I earned my speaking valve and then they used to try and get me to sing 😠once I was awake, I do have a few good memories which I try to think about during the bleak days.
Few tears were shed again but I really held back until I had got out of there.
I'm so glad I went in as the memories I have of what I thought the ward was like was actually quite different in reality! It wasn't such a frightening looking place as I remember thinking it was.
We have been invited to a group meeting for ICU survivors and their families so we can mingle and talk to other people who have been through similar circumstances . Think the Dr's then do some sort of talk but as it's their first ever one, it will probably be a bit hit and miss. All the same, I think it's a great idea and I will be going.
So now I'm waiting for reams of various appointments to appear on my doormat and in the meantime I will be relaxing. 😊
Barbara Laurie Oh Nicola, my baby heart sister. I cried reading this, heck, I'm still crying! Everything you wrote m ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Oh Nicola, my baby heart sister. I cried reading this, heck, I'm still crying! Everything you wrote made me want to just give you a big hug and tell you "I know". 💞 I'm glad you got to reorganize your thoughts and also just talk and see where you were. So very nice Hon. God Bless, and you know you're in my prayersâ¤ï¸
Nicola Laker I could have done with more time but I'm hoping the new meetings they are starting next month might a ... Read more
Nicola Laker I could have done with more time but I'm hoping the new meetings they are starting next month might also be good for me. We are going to the first one next month and if I find it helpful I will continue going.
I know you understand exactly what it's like Barbara being through similar scenario (plus another op, which thankfully they didn't need to do for me).
It's hard to explain how I feel to people as they don't get it. Heart surgery is bad enough to explain without the nightmare that followed! So it's good to have them there and of course you Barbara, who "gets it". Xxâ¤xx
I'm really terrible lately with getting things done. I'm going through a lazy stage and I need to buck myself up.
I had my waste of time appointment with ...Read more
I'm really terrible lately with getting things done. I'm going through a lazy stage and I need to buck myself up.
I had my waste of time appointment with ENT. I had a camera put into my throat and basically he thinks that my right vocal chord is paralysed. The consultant is referring me to another one and how long I will have to wait is anyone's guess. It's been 4 weeks already and still haven't even been given an appointment.
The prognosis of my voice was "you will never be in x factor". Well I can live with that, I just want to be able to scream and shout and people understand what I'm saying. Also I would have never imagined that talking could physically wear you out, but it does. Trying to talk to my mum who isn't very good holding a phone or speaking as she has parkinsons, is like a comedy sketch and very hard work. I feel like I have attempted to run round the block after 5 minutes on the phone. 😂
I have my Critical Care Consultant appt on 16th so I will speak to him about getting seen by someone there about my voice. He was quite concerned about getting it sorted asap when he phoned to arrange the appointment and told me to let him know if I bang my head against a brick wall which I now feel like I am doing.
Driving wasn't too bad but unable to turn myself round to see the blind spots and it also made me ache quite considerably, so I have put that back on hold for a while.
I'm still signed off from work and likely to be for quite a while yet. My chest is still painful and tender which I was hoping would be OK by now after reading from everyone how quickly their sternums healed. Still struggling to lift our kettle and doing everyday tasks. I did try to vacuum but failed miserably. My doctor isn't concerned and just said that due to complications everything will take a while to settle down and to be patient.
Well that's it for now. Looking forward to seeing the ICU consultant and getting his perspective on everything. Will endeavour to post on my return. I have loads of sheets and questionnaires that they have sent to take with me when I go so that's my job for this week, to sit quietly and fill them in.
Have a great day everyone and good luck for all those having surgery. Xx
Rita Savelis Oh, Nicola, you've been through a lot. Being in a "lazy stage" is okay. Geez....Good luck with all th ... Read more
Rita Savelis Oh, Nicola, you've been through a lot. Being in a "lazy stage" is okay. Geez....Good luck with all those questionnaires, and take care.
Barbara Laurie Until you can scream, I'll do it for you😄 But, I know the relief you'll feel getting some of your ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Until you can scream, I'll do it for you😄 But, I know the relief you'll feel getting some of your voice back. Isn't it a weird thing to think, I have to tell people I can't talk because of a complication due to surgery? I know I hate the enquirers who come over and want to get a look at my fingers and want me to, once again, explain how this all happened! It's like ptsd therapy..I get by, .except you can't explain, you just have to squeak!! My poor friend! Hang in there, rest when you can. Hope all that paperwork doesn't wear you out. 💞💞â¤ï¸ðŸŒ¹â¤ï¸ðŸŒ¹â¤ï¸
Nicola Laker I usually get people backing away from me telling me how a member of their family has laryngitis or s ... Read more
Nicola Laker I usually get people backing away from me telling me how a member of their family has laryngitis or some throat infection. So yes, as you know how repetitive it is explaining why I can't speak properly due to surgery. I now just say it's a damage to my vocal chords. The best one I had was being asked if I had done too much singing at the weekend. If only! 😂 Yes it will be nice to speak properly again amd to shout...I really want to scream and shout! And sing. I really miss being able to even sing a tiny bit. 😣
Barbara Laurie Oh! I want you to feel better soon pumpkin! I'll type more when my fingers aren't so tired! 💕â¤ï¸ ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Oh! I want you to feel better soon pumpkin! I'll type more when my fingers aren't so tired! 💕â¤ï¸ðŸ’•
Nicola Laker We both need this to be over with Barbara but unfortunately we will always bear the scars. But we ar ... Read more
Nicola Laker We both need this to be over with Barbara but unfortunately we will always bear the scars. But we are here and we will reap the benefits....we have to be positive and strong! 😊â¤
EA sisters can get through anything and I think we have proved that! 😆xx 💖💖💓💓
Just over 3 months since my cone procedure and other tweaks the surgeon made. Still have pain in my chest and finding even the kettle too heavy to lift. Going ...Read more
Just over 3 months since my cone procedure and other tweaks the surgeon made. Still have pain in my chest and finding even the kettle too heavy to lift. Going to have a short drive this week as I'm going crazy with these four walls. My husband is coming with me in case I can't cope. Hopefully I will be OK! I know I'm obviously behind with the recovery process due to the major complications so I just have to be patient.
I finally had an appointment come through last week to see the ENT consultant regarding my speech, or should I say lack of. It was for 20th October! I rang them and squeaked down the phone that it wasn't acceptable. They disappeared off and came back with an appointment for this week! It will probably still take a while for anything go be actually be done but at least I will be in the system.
Had a lovely phone call from one of the Critical Care Consultants who looked after me whilst I was in ICU after my operation. They have arranged for me to go to a meeting with himself and several other Dr's, psychologists, physiotherapists and numerous others. They are also going to take me back to the ICU unit where i spent 3 weeks, and take me through what happened and what they had to do to bring me back and it get me well again. The consultant said that I can decline to see ICU but I would like to see all the nurses who do a fantastic job to say thank you (although thank you really isn't enough for what they did). They deserve medals. I also think it will help me piece together the hazy bits I can recall and what was real and which was hallucinations. It will be emotional.
So it's all good news so far and hoping the next three months sees my voice being restored to some sort of normality!
Alina FH Good to hear from you, Nicola! Good luck with the voice therapists. I hope it will all sort out. You ... Read more
Alina FH Good to hear from you, Nicola! Good luck with the voice therapists. I hope it will all sort out. You sound as doing very well. Continued improvement and much health to you!
Nicola Laker Thankyou. I will keep you posted how it goes. 😊 x
Today is the first time I have been out,except for my trip home from the hospital. It was tiring and today my legs ache!
My husband came with me as I had ...Read more
Today is the first time I have been out,except for my trip home from the hospital. It was tiring and today my legs ache!
My husband came with me as I had to get a train to London. Luckily the hospital is close to the station. We arrived early and had only just sat down when he surgeon called us in.
This is the first time I have seen him since the procedure on 3rd May although he came into see me on icu and speak to my husband a few times. He was very blunt, in a nice way, and explained exactly what he did. Hearing how long they stopped my heart and how long a machine was keeping my body functioning was amazing! He was slightly concerned about my lack of speech and will be referring me to ENT to get my vocal chords looked at. He is sure it's not the tracheostomy site that causing it as when they tried to get me off the ventilator when in ICU, it didn't work so they had to try and get it back in place. So it's possible they have caught it. He has also referred me go to Speech and Language therapy to try and improve the strength of my voice if the chords are damaged. My heart is doing very well and overall the op was a success. He is very happy with my tests etc.
The surgeon then went on about what happened after the surgery. I wasn't to keen on knowing but he told me anyway. I don't need to put it all on here but suffice to say I came out the other side do all is good! There was a few things even my husband had forgotten or didn't know about. The nurses in ICU are the best and I will be forever grateful for them for making me better.
It's a long road for me but i just have to take each day as it comes. My recovery being delayed isn't what I wanted but the end result will eventually be the same.
I spent my first night laying flat in bed with just two pillows last night. I have been using a bed wedge but lately I've been sliding down during the night. It was nice to be more 'normal'.
Well I'm off for a snooze as yesterday was pretty hectic but nice to get away from these four walls.
Alina FH May everything be looking up from here on, Nicola!
Barbara Laurie Hugs and kisses sista!!!â¤ï¸ðŸ¾â¤ï¸ðŸ¾â¤ï¸ðŸ¾
Nicola Laker I'm hoping so Alina. Seeing him has certainly put me more at ease about the slow recovery! X
Nicola Laker Huge hugs and kisses back Barbara!!! Hope you are having a good week. Xx â¤â¤â¤â¤â¤â¤â¤
Saturday morning and sitting in my own bed with a nice cup of tea. Pain has gone and now it's back to just sternum pain/twinges.
So glad to be home. Now ...Read more
Saturday morning and sitting in my own bed with a nice cup of tea. Pain has gone and now it's back to just sternum pain/twinges.
So glad to be home. Now back to recovery!
Clare Auten Glad to hear you are home again. Take care!
Elaine Cutri That sounds wonderful! Bet wishes on a complete and successful recovery Nicola. <3
Barbara Laurie So glad you're home little sister!â¤ï¸
Now I want a cup of tea and Dave is sleeping!😫 Guess I ne ... Read more
Barbara Laurie So glad you're home little sister!â¤ï¸
Now I want a cup of tea and Dave is sleeping!😫 Guess I need to wait! Kisses and hugs to you, Vince and Rubyâ¤ï¸ðŸ’•â¤ï¸
Emily Rowley Cuppa tea would be lovely, what type do you have? ☺ It's great you are home. Take it easy, will tak ... Read more
Emily Rowley Cuppa tea would be lovely, what type do you have? ☺ It's great you are home. Take it easy, will take time for your Sternum to heal hun.
Wanda Mroz Glad you are healing slowly but surely! 💞
This is how my luck goes. I did manage 9 days at home and wasn't expecting this to happen!
Couldn't get comfortable Monday evening at all. Was fidgety ...Read more
This is how my luck goes. I did manage 9 days at home and wasn't expecting this to happen!
Couldn't get comfortable Monday evening at all. Was fidgety all night and by 5am Tuesday morning I had a seering pain from the right side underneath my ribs going right round to my back. Dr's sent an ambulance and by 12 pm I was on a ward hooked up to antibiotics and various tablets given to me and injections for good measure.
They were concerned about my lungs having a clot so a CT scan was required. From the x ray they said I had an infection and fluid but still wanted to check for a clot to be on the safe side as I was now also showing shortness of breathe. Finally had the CT scan on the Wednesday afternoon and it was clear of any clots...phew.
The Dr's were concerned after all the post op complications that they have kept me here until.the infection has gone and the fluid has drained away.
Hoping that my blood tests they are doing today will.show an improvement and I can go home tomorrow. I have had quite enough of hospitals and noise for a lifetime! I want my own bed and some peace and quiet!
Clare Auten Sorry you are back in but better safe than sorry. I was crying one day on the readmit. My family remi ... Read more
Clare Auten Sorry you are back in but better safe than sorry. I was crying one day on the readmit. My family reminded me that this was just another bump in the road. You have made it this far, you will be back home before you know it. Sending prayers.
Nicola Laker It wasn't too bad being readmitted as this time I could at least walk to the toilet by myself. I ne ... Read more
Nicola Laker It wasn't too bad being readmitted as this time I could at least walk to the toilet by myself. I needed that pain gone so I was in the best place. I did all my crying whilst in ICU before they removed the trachy. I was hungry for proper food and desperate for water. And also fed up with tubes stuck in me. I wanted to be normal again! But that part is over with and now entering a new chapter of the recovery process. X
Just a general question. Did everyone who had OHS sleep propped up or have some of you slept flat on a bed once home. I would love to sleep flat as I can't ...Read more
Just a general question. Did everyone who had OHS sleep propped up or have some of you slept flat on a bed once home. I would love to sleep flat as I can't get comfortable and it gives me terrible back ache and neck ache sleeping half sitting?
Also how long does it take for the lump at the top of the chest to go down.?
Sophia Ridley Hi Nicola, I'm so pleased to hear from you. I was getting rather worried. Glad to hear that the lion ... Read more
Sophia Ridley Hi Nicola, I'm so pleased to hear from you. I was getting rather worried. Glad to hear that the lion found you, I came to ICU to see you but Vince had gone so gave it to the nurse. You've been in my thoughts.
Sleeping... I opted for a bed wedge with a soft pillow on the lower part and two on the upper with a well made for my head so it didn't roll off. I found worked very well. I bought it off Amazon, the look of the postman delivering it kept me amused for days!
I have a stretchy ligament thing so my collarbone and ribs etc moved if I tried sleeping on my side so I remained on this for 3mths until I had regained some muscle tone and my bones stayed put.
My shoulders and neck ached and so did my face as if I had a bad cold. This is all to do with your muscles in your neck. The front ones are connected to your sternum so have been through hell. The rear neck ones are responsible for tension headaches. Due to stretchiness I have had lots of Physio and it's getting better.
Do watch your posture. I don't know if it's the cause but my sternum has got a dip and a lump half way down :( The lump at the top will disappear, it's tissue. Think it was 3 months.
May sure that your local rehab team know all about you. My NHS rehab didn't start until I was 4 months post op. I did one privately starting at 6wks as I was concerned about my recovery.
Nicola Laker So lovely to hear from you.
Fortunetly the front of my neck is ok although it is sore where they pu ... Read more
Nicola Laker So lovely to hear from you.
Fortunetly the front of my neck is ok although it is sore where they put the trachy. I can't tilt my head up too far but that's ok. It's just my ribs and back that hurt. I try to stand straight when I walk but I'm still not that steady on my feet and need help with the stairs. I can manage to get to the loo on my own which is good. My foot is also a lot better so I can stand on it now thank goodness.
I think might order a wedge and see if that helps. ☺
How are you doing now? Xx
Nicola Laker I will ring the hospital next week and see what they say about rehab. I'm definitely going to go. X
Elaine Cutri Sophia's time-line and advice is described very well. The lump around your incision will go down. It' ... Read more
Elaine Cutri Sophia's time-line and advice is described very well. The lump around your incision will go down. It's just a little inflamed. What you're going through is temporary, but it may take months, not weeks. You will get back to sleeping flat. I found propped up with a few pillows sleeping on my back worked pretty well for a few weeks. If you can have someone give you a few minutes of massage around your upper back a few times a week - that might be helpful too. I had a muscle pain in the upper middle of my back. They kept telling me it was do to the position during surgery. It's been gone for months. Best wishes with continued progress for your recovery!
Sophia Ridley I'm doing pretty well. Back in work now, get tired but feel that I'm getting closer to 'normal'. I'm ... Read more
Sophia Ridley I'm doing pretty well. Back in work now, get tired but feel that I'm getting closer to 'normal'. I'm awaiting an MRI to check into my migraines and my eye blacking out when I lifted my head. I acquired an atriclip (excludes the left atrium appendage) so keeping the radiographers busy figuring out how they scan me without cooking it (It is worrying me)! Have an echo in July which I'm looking forward to, hope to come off Rivaroxaban.
Be warned, OHS does funny things to you especially when you've done rehab.. I've never been one for exercise but knew I have to keep it up to reduce my atrium, then I saw the BHF 'marathon in May' it's a great idea where you cover a total of 26.2miles walk/jog/run throughout the month. I briskly walked it over 4wks and raised £3,500! Does funny things to you, I would never have contempted this pre op!! 😀
You sound in good spirits, which is half the battle won! Just need the good weather to return.
Nicola Laker Apparently it's going to be warm this week. Hopefully a chance to sit out in the garden. ☺
I do ... Read more
Nicola Laker Apparently it's going to be warm this week. Hopefully a chance to sit out in the garden. ☺
I do get my husband to rub my back for me when he isn't busy doing all the chores. I've ordered the wedge and it will be delivered Tuesday ☺ X
Wanda Mroz I slept propped up in bed for several weeks otherwise it hurt too much to lay flat. The lump gradual ... Read more
Wanda Mroz I slept propped up in bed for several weeks otherwise it hurt too much to lay flat. The lump gradually decreases. I'd say mine was totally gone after about six weeks or so. Glad that you are home and doing pretty well. 💞
Sara Hedberg Yep, slept in recliner chair with good support for a couple of months. It was the only way to get th ... Read more
Sara Hedberg Yep, slept in recliner chair with good support for a couple of months. It was the only way to get the push and pull of gravity (painful) off my chest. Also had a few small pillows to support elbows and knees..... It was nice to be able to adjust my position and it also made it easy to get up as needed!
A friend who is having OHS in less than 2 weeks has rented a hospital bed for post-surgery.
Nicola Laker Well.done Sophia for your walk and raising so much money!
Glad it's not only me that gets aches an ... Read more
Nicola Laker Well.done Sophia for your walk and raising so much money!
Glad it's not only me that gets aches and pains. I didn't seem ti have them when in ICU but they started up on the ward. I thought I might have got away with the worst of the pain whilst I was asleep for all that time, but it seems not 😣
The thing I dread the most is waking up and trying to get up. I'm as stiff as a board. I do have a reclining chair but I can't even seen to get comfortable in that either. 😢
The sun is shining today so I might venture into the garden and sit on the reclining garden chair. Thank you for all your advice.
Tina Maroon I couldn't sleep flat for a couple of months after my OHS
Cathleen Weed I posted above too...but definitely get a cervical pillow for the bed and a travel neck pillow (like ... Read more
Cathleen Weed I posted above too...but definitely get a cervical pillow for the bed and a travel neck pillow (like you use on a plane) for the chair...keep your neck as aligned as possible. You'll be propped up for awhile yet. xo
Wanda Mroz this was the hospital gown my hospital had. I loved it. Felt covered all the time. ://www.freep.com ... Read more
Wanda Mroz this was the hospital gown my hospital had. I loved it. Felt covered all the time. ://www.freep.com/story/news/health/2015/04/16/hospital-gowns-henry-ford/25875697/
Well where do I start. ....I can only really tell you what I remember so here goes.
Got up on the morning of the 3rd May and waited for the nurses to let ...Read more
Well where do I start. ....I can only really tell you what I remember so here goes.
Got up on the morning of the 3rd May and waited for the nurses to let me know what time I was going down. Apparently I was second as they had a baby first as a priority. Myself and my husband sat and waited. Eventually it was time to scrub myself and get into a clean gown. Vince followed us down to the theatre and the last thing I remember is speaking to two different doctors as they came through a door in front of me.
Fast forward and I wake up about 10 days later on the Thursday. In between this time I vaguely remember hearing people speaking to me and I was fighting to reply, blurry shadows and then darkness again. When I woke I can't remember if my husband was already there or came in after but I was shocked to hear I had been on a ventilatior and asleep for that long. I was still on oxygen and I couldn't speak. Vince told me that they had to wrap my hands up in what looked like boxing gloves as I was continually trying to pull the breathing tubes out. And that my face face was puffed up like a ball. After he left my friend came in. The nurse in ICU gave me a white board so I could communicate but my brain and hands wouldn't co ordinate. I couldn't talk and I couldnt write. I felt totally useless. The doctors came in and put three drains into my lungs which was sheer agony. I know I told the nurse I needed to be knocked out as the pain was excruciating and the next thing another three days had passed and I woke up on Sunday , but this time with a tracheostomy.
I was still having problems with my lungs so after a discussion with Vince, they decided this was the best option.
The following day was a bad day. Mostly spent in tears and devastated that everything had seemed to have gone so wrong.
The nurse was so good to me and when the physio team came a couple of days later, tbey were delighted to see my determination to get better and get out. Each time I passed a goal my nurse gave me an award. The best being the trachy being deflated so I could finally sip water and then a voice box. This made a horrendous clicking noise when breathing and I sounded a bit like Stephen hawking but I didn't care. I could at last communicate and sip water and a cup of tea! After a further few days the doctor finally agreed that I was out of the woods and it was ok to remove it. Glad to say that at this point my entire body had started to return back to normal size. Even my toes had swollen up.
Two days after this I was moved to a ward where I could at last have a shower, although the nurses in ICU washed me everyday and also washed my hair. They were absolutely fantastic to myself and supporting Vince through a very tough time.
I spent another 10 daY's on the ward on bed rest as where they had poked so many needles and canulas into me, (I was black and blue all over) , they had damaged the soft tissue in my right foot which meant I couldn't stand on it. This meant my physio took a step backwards.
I'm now home and learning to walk again. My legs have shrunk to half their size and I'm finding the stairs hard but one day at a time. I'm also finding it hard to sleep propped up. I get cricks in my neck and I'm worried about laying too flat. (Any advice on that would be apreciated).
The pain in my chest comes and goes and I just can't seem to get comfortable.
The district nurse is back tomorrow to change my neck dressing and it's healing really well. I sound quite hoarse and I can't shout. I think it's a mixture of the ventilator tubes rubbing my windpipe and the trachy tube. I'm sure it will right itself eventually (now been told it takes 3/4 months! )
The actual cone procedure they did on my triscuspid valve was apparently a success. I was just unfortunate to suffer numerous complications post op.
I have Ebsteins Anomaly like our other fabulous heart sister Barbara Laurie.
This op had to be done eventually and I'm grateful to everyone on ICU for making me better and looking after us so well.
I can look back at some of it and smile, especially when they deflated the trachy. I coughed and put my hand over my mouth, forgetting there was a hole beneath it and poor Vince would cover his face and say "stop spitting over me". And coughing so hard my voice box flew out.... I don't want to remember much else and when I close my eyes at night I really have to think of nice things as the images of blurry shadows and voices still haunt me. It's been a tough ride but I'm on the other side and now I just need to take time to get back on my feet. Just wish I didn't feel so terribly tired all.the time.
Sophia I did get your card and little bear. Thank you so much. It was in ICU and I got it when I woke the second time ☺ Thank you x
Almost forgot to say that when I went to the ward after ICU for almost 3 weeks, it was on the 8th floor and by a window so I had fantastic views of parliament, big Ben. .... and the sunsets were amazing. ☺
Elaine Cutri So glad to hear your back home - what a journey. Best wishes for continued healing!
Clare Auten So glad you are home. Everyone was hoping you were improving.
Petey Bello Wow, what a journey. I am so sorry you had to go through so much. Glad you are home & finally on your ... Read more
Petey Bello Wow, what a journey. I am so sorry you had to go through so much. Glad you are home & finally on your way to recovery! God Bless you & I will keep you in my prayers.
Alina FH Nicola, so GREAT to hear from you - I am so glad you are home.
Sleeping propped up has been an issue ... Read more
Alina FH Nicola, so GREAT to hear from you - I am so glad you are home.
Sleeping propped up has been an issue for me, as well, but you finally get used to it, crooks in your neck and all.
Right after surgery, I could not sleep in a recliner armchair at all. I've been sleeping in bed, with LOTS of blankets (actually a huge duvet folded many times over) behind my back and two pillows resting on it. I am lying down on the pillows, as if I were reading a book, so I sleep sitting up, more or less. I also have a couple of pillows under my knees - this helps level out my lower back and also stops me from sliding off the pillows behind me. I cannot sleep laying flat, also (and I am almost 4 months out), and I cannot turn on my side, nor sleep on my stomach. So, I have just gotten used to sleeping almost sitting up. I also have 2 pillows on either side of my body which keep me from rolling over to one side or another during my sleep. I just cannot have my chest collapsed at all.
I do wake up with back pains and neck pains quite a lot, but a hot shower in the morning loosens them up. I hope this made some sense, and you find useful tips in it. Sleeping has definitely not been the same since the surgery for me, either. I still wake up at least 3-4 times a night, every night, because I am not 100% comfortable.
The best of luck in your recovery and hoping that you gain little strength every day.
Wanda Mroz Nicola! So great to hear from you. You have had a ruff ride but it sounds like things are improving ... Read more
Wanda Mroz Nicola! So great to hear from you. You have had a ruff ride but it sounds like things are improving little by little... Hugs and prayers that all goes well. 💞
Nicola Laker The Dr's gave me some stronger painkillers which I took last night. I had a better nights sleep and ... Read more
Nicola Laker The Dr's gave me some stronger painkillers which I took last night. I had a better nights sleep and I also laid down a little bit flatter. I woke a bit ache and stiff and the usual crick in my neck, but after wobbling to the loo and back I felt better. The nurses have just been to check my neck dressing and she said it would take about 3/4 months for my voice to 'hopefully' get back to normal. The sickness tablets seen to have worked too and I thoroughly enjoyed my dinner last night and managed to eat a decent sized meal for a change! Food still tastes a bit bland and I seem to have gone off galaxy chocolate which I loved pre surgery. Perhaps that's not a bad thing!! X
Clare Auten Sleeping is an issue. I always slept in the recliner or in bed on my right side. I still, after 2.5 y ... Read more
Clare Auten Sleeping is an issue. I always slept in the recliner or in bed on my right side. I still, after 2.5 years can't lay on my left side or back too long. Take care.
Nicola Laker I always slept on my front so looking forward to being able do that again. ...hopefully. I've never s ... Read more
Nicola Laker I always slept on my front so looking forward to being able do that again. ...hopefully. I've never slept on my back except when I dose off on a sunlounger on a beach 😅
Barbara Laurie So glad you're home Nicola 😊 Give yourself time kiddo, you will get back! I had horrible nightmare ... Read more
Barbara Laurie So glad you're home Nicola 😊 Give yourself time kiddo, you will get back! I had horrible nightmares for awhile once I came to, but they went away, hope you feel better every day. Then maybe we'll fall asleep on a sun lounger on the beach together 💕â¤ï¸ðŸ’•
Nicola Laker That's the plan Barbara......my mum keeps going on about me coming over to see you. I definitely wil ... Read more
Nicola Laker That's the plan Barbara......my mum keeps going on about me coming over to see you. I definitely will. It would be amazing ☺ xxxxâ¤â¤â¤â¤â¤â¤
Kate Watson Wow Nicola, I'm sorry to hear of your rough journey. I can't even imagine, but really glad to hear y ... Read more
Kate Watson Wow Nicola, I'm sorry to hear of your rough journey. I can't even imagine, but really glad to hear you are through the worst of it. As for sleeping, I am 8 weeks post op and still can't sleep laying flat. I sleep in my recliner most of the time, though that isn't that comfortable these days either. When I sleep in my bed, I am propped up with pillows, and small towel rolled up behind my neck. I used a sleeping wedge a few times but kept slipping down and couldn't quite get it to work. I'm having a lot of discomfort with my neck and shoulders too, but stretching has been the best thing for it. Did they give you a list of stretches to do at home? It may be the last thing you feel like doing but it will help! I also rotate ice and heat on those areas too. You and Barbara definitely need a vacation together after what you've both been through!
Nicola Laker The hospital didn't tell me anything to be honest. I saw my consultant and all she said was that once ... Read more
Nicola Laker The hospital didn't tell me anything to be honest. I saw my consultant and all she said was that once my foot was better and I could start walking, after 12 weeks walk a little bit more every day and that the actual operation has worked better than expected. That was it. Other patients who had gone straight to the ward after surgery, had cardiac nurses come and speak to them about going home. Think they forgot about me 😢
A holiday with Barbara is on the cards when we are both feeling better for sure. ☺xx
Nicola Laker Thank you for all your lovely comments and advice. I'm waiting for the wedge to be delivered Tuesday ... Read more
Nicola Laker Thank you for all your lovely comments and advice. I'm waiting for the wedge to be delivered Tuesday (and I will be watching the postman carrying it up the drive 😅) and giving that a go.
Xxx
Cathleen Weed Wow Nicola!! I was so worried about you! I kept asking if anyone had heard from you..I even put a pos ... Read more
Cathleen Weed Wow Nicola!! I was so worried about you! I kept asking if anyone had heard from you..I even put a post on my journal. So glad you are home! As to your question about a kinked neck...I would get two things...a cervical pillow for the bed and a travel neck pillow ( like you use for a plane ) for the chair. Thank you for the update. You are in my prayers out here in California :). God Bless <3.
Nicola Laker It's lovely to know that people were thinking of me. When I was awake properly the second time, I wa ... Read more
Nicola Laker It's lovely to know that people were thinking of me. When I was awake properly the second time, I was still very down and had no interest in anything. It wasn't until I went on the ward and they eventually found my bag, it still took me a few days to get my head round what had happened!!! Plus i was stlll finding it hard to write as my brain and hands didnt seem to Co ordinate with each other! Glad to say it's all ok now 😆
I do have a travel pillow and I have also now bought a wedge which has helped. I don't seen to slide down the bed so much now. What is a cervical pillow? Haven't heard of those here in the UK! We probably call it something else.
Hope you are doing OK! Xx
Cathleen Weed HI Nicola...so good to hear that you are getting stronger :) Everyone was very concerned with your we ... Read more
Cathleen Weed HI Nicola...so good to hear that you are getting stronger :) Everyone was very concerned with your well-being when we didn't hear anything for so long <3. Here are some examples of cervical pillows (also called neck pillows, orthopaedic pillows etc). They basically help support the cervical spine ( the part that comprises the neck) and helps keep the discs open by restoring the natural curve of your neck so that nerves aren't pinched while you sleep.
http://back-pain-relief-products.net/cervical-traction-pillows-for-neck-pain/
Well that's it....I'm in my hospital bed and waiting for surgery tomorrow. I'm due to go down about midday here in the UK. I'm feeling ok but the long morning ...Read more
Well that's it....I'm in my hospital bed and waiting for surgery tomorrow. I'm due to go down about midday here in the UK. I'm feeling ok but the long morning ahead will be hard.
Will post in a few days when I'm up and about.
Good luck to all those due for surgery in the days ahead.
Love to you all. Xxx
Alan Lonsberry good luck Nicola, you wont need it. prayers to you.
Alan Lonsberry good luck Nicola, you wont need it. prayers to you.
Vicki Hake I remember the night before my surgery. I was so scared and anxious. Not sure I slept at all as they ... Read more
Vicki Hake I remember the night before my surgery. I was so scared and anxious. Not sure I slept at all as they came at 4:00am to take me down. I am praying that you will get some rest tonight, and look forward to hearing how you are doing in a while. ðŸ˜
Joyce Shelby Prayers for a full and speedy recovery!
Kate Watson Wishing you a good night's rest, a successful surgery and smooth recovery!
Wanda Mroz Prayers for everything to go well and for a smooth recovery . Hugs and prayers.💞ðŸ™ðŸ»
Enrique K Nicola, praying for successful surgery and uneventful recovery Best wishes.
Nicola Laker Thank you everyone for your kind words.
They are dragging this out and making me wait until 12pm fo ... Read more
Nicola Laker Thank you everyone for your kind words.
They are dragging this out and making me wait until 12pm for surgery but thankfully I have a lovely view if the houses of parliament and big Ben to keep me occupied ☺
Speak to you all very soon! Xxâ¤â¤
Ruth Valenzuela Will be praying for you Nicola! Love the view....
Not a good time for my body to start being unwell. Swollen tonsils are not welcome here
Dousing myself in saltwater gargles, antibiotics and a lot of water! ...Read more
Not a good time for my body to start being unwell. Swollen tonsils are not welcome here
Dousing myself in saltwater gargles, antibiotics and a lot of water! It needs to disappear quickly! !! 😢
Denise Campbell Praying for a quick healing. I know you don't want to postpone surgery. I take zinc melt in ... Read more
Denise Campbell Praying for a quick healing. I know you don't want to postpone surgery. I take zinc melt in your mouth tablets. Over the counter. And it really seems to help. Rest up
Sophia Ridley Hi Nicola, thinking of you! My daughter has been off school for last few days with a high temperature ... Read more
Sophia Ridley Hi Nicola, thinking of you! My daughter has been off school for last few days with a high temperature and generally unwell, she's still not right so think best that I don't come in to see you Monday as this would be the last thing you need. If everyone's fine and you're up for visitors towards the end of the week, I can pop in then. Very best wishes. You'll be through soon! Don't forgot your eye mask and ear plugs, I got no sleep in ICU and Step down, was tearful with exhaustion.
Nicola Laker Hopefully be back on the ward towards the end of the week which should be Becket? It will be lovely ... Read more
Nicola Laker Hopefully be back on the ward towards the end of the week which should be Becket? It will be lovely to see you! Hope your daughter is better soon. Eye mask will be packed and if I can find my ear plugs, they will be too! Xx
Kate Watson Oh no, is your surgery still on as scheduled? Hope you are feeling better! I was really scared of g ... Read more
Kate Watson Oh no, is your surgery still on as scheduled? Hope you are feeling better! I was really scared of getting sick beforehand and was all crazy with hand sanitizer and wouldn't let anyone sick near me. Hope you are well and on track for your surgery :)
Nicola Laker All good Kate except that since I've got to the hospital my ears have started to hurt. It's so hot i ... Read more
Nicola Laker All good Kate except that since I've got to the hospital my ears have started to hurt. It's so hot in here!!!
But all scheduled for tomorrow lunchtime. Nervous. ...yes! But it's going to be great when I'm on the other side recovering! Xx
I've woken up today feeling sorry for myself. My husband is away for the weekend and I'm at home relaxing. It's perfect except for some reason I seem to be ...Read more
I've woken up today feeling sorry for myself. My husband is away for the weekend and I'm at home relaxing. It's perfect except for some reason I seem to be very tearful. Is this usual or are my hormones playing up? I'm having a pyjama day and taking cold meds as I feel a bit blocked and thick headed. This is not what I need right now! I'm hoping that it's due to sleeping heavily last night, but what a great nights sleep I had!
Hope that everyones upcoming surgery goes smoothly ⤠xx
Sophia Ridley I was exactly the same, I thought I had been doing fine and then it hit me about a week before when I ... Read more
Sophia Ridley I was exactly the same, I thought I had been doing fine and then it hit me about a week before when I was alone. The good thing was after that I felt really ready and wanted it over. You can do this!!
Nicola Laker Being on my own this weekend and i suppose I've had time to relax and my mind has been wandering. My ... Read more
Nicola Laker Being on my own this weekend and i suppose I've had time to relax and my mind has been wandering. My husband is home tomorrow and then I'm back at my mums for a few days taking her to more appointments. At least it keeps me busy! Xxx
Kate Watson It's totally normal, you can expect a roller coaster of emotions for a bit. I think it's ok to feel s ... Read more
Kate Watson It's totally normal, you can expect a roller coaster of emotions for a bit. I think it's ok to feel sorry for yourself sometimes too- it sucks that we have to go through this, none of us asked for it. I am 2 weeks post op and I was terrified before it but I made it. And you will get through this too!
Nicola Laker You look amazing after only 2 weeks Kate! If i look and feel half as good as you do, I will be very ... Read more
Nicola Laker You look amazing after only 2 weeks Kate! If i look and feel half as good as you do, I will be very grateful! Xxx
I have never suffered with high blood pressure but the last 3 weeks it has been sky high? There has been a lot going on what with work, having to stay and look ...Read more
I have never suffered with high blood pressure but the last 3 weeks it has been sky high? There has been a lot going on what with work, having to stay and look after my mother 4 days/nights a week and still work 48 hours over 4 days and then there is all the housework at home where I spend two of the three days working long shifts and going to bed when I return home after work. I'm not very good company for my poor husband who doesn't get to see me at all really. Needless to say Im pretty much exhausted all the time. Finally there is the upcoming surgery to worry about. I'm hoping this is what it is causing it to rocket up to 142/94 today. It went down a bit laSt week but i had a bit of an issue with my sibling and it went up to 153/98. I'm also having more headaches than usual. Do you think this could stop surgery? I'm not sure what my doctor will say but the nurse wants me to have another check up this week. Has anyone any suggestions how to bring MY BP down? X
Tracy Simmons Wow it sounds like you have alot going on and some stressful stuff. I would let your doctor know. I' ... Read more
Tracy Simmons Wow it sounds like you have alot going on and some stressful stuff. I would let your doctor know. I've been on BP meds and actually felt better once on it. I've cut back on salt, and try (emphasize try) not to get stressed. Best of luck :)
Clare Auten My blood pressure always runs high. Even post op....I am on meds. 142/84 isn't horrible. But the oth ... Read more
Clare Auten My blood pressure always runs high. Even post op....I am on meds. 142/84 isn't horrible. But the other one seems high. Stress does make mine go up. For me, a headache usually means I am too high. All the headache relief stuff like advil make mine go up too. So does caffeine. Hang in there.
Wanda Mroz I'd mention it to the Dr. Also watch your salt intake and make sure you are drinking lots of water. ... Read more
Wanda Mroz I'd mention it to the Dr. Also watch your salt intake and make sure you are drinking lots of water. Lack of hydration makes the bp go up sometimes too. You do have a lot of stress going on....try to relax if you can and get some rest. Hugs... 💞
Nicola Laker Thankyou. I don't eat a lot of salt but I havent been drinking much water lately. I will make sure ... Read more
Nicola Laker Thankyou. I don't eat a lot of salt but I havent been drinking much water lately. I will make sure I drink more. I'm seeing the nurse again on Thursday so hopefully it will have gone down !! Xxx
After a phone call last week to finally offer me a date for surgery, the "official" letter comes through the post. And now my name is on the board. It's all ...Read more
After a phone call last week to finally offer me a date for surgery, the "official" letter comes through the post. And now my name is on the board. It's all becoming real....eek!
Emily Rowley How do you feel Nicola? It felt all so surreal for me. What type of surgery are you having?
Nicola Laker Scared but If I wake up I know I'm ok! I'm having the cone procedure and ablation if it all goes to ... Read more
Nicola Laker Scared but If I wake up I know I'm ok! I'm having the cone procedure and ablation if it all goes to plan. I have Ebsteins anomaly and WPW so my heart is all weird inside since birth, but it's come to a stage where they need to intervene. I leave myself in their capable hands!
What are you having done?
Nicola Laker It seems I've been pushed off the board. 😅 x
Adam can you tell me if anywhere in the USA ship these to the UK. I have found them online but no option to ship to UK. We don't get these over here and I ...Read more
Adam can you tell me if anywhere in the USA ship these to the UK. I have found them online but no option to ship to UK. We don't get these over here and I would love to have one to take to hospital with me. They only give us a rolled up towel. ...not quite the same thing! Plus it would be lovely to be signed by my surgeon etc. Please help!
Nicola Laker I've found somewhere that ships internationally so I ordered one. I haven't received any email confi ... Read more
Nicola Laker I've found somewhere that ships internationally so I ordered one. I haven't received any email confirmation and there is no contact email on the website only a US phone number (but expensive to ring from the UK). Hopefully the pillow will turn up on my doorstep prior to surgery so I can take it with me. 😆
Denise Campbell That is so weird that a u.s. Company won't ship to UK. Customer pays postage either way
It seems that the last few days has put some bizarre ideas into my subconscious! Worrying about our heart sister Barbara must have been right there at the ...Read more
It seems that the last few days has put some bizarre ideas into my subconscious! Worrying about our heart sister Barbara must have been right there at the front. I dreamt I went for a quick check up and then I went off. A nurse found me on holiday and told me they were 99.9% operating on me today. I was in a panic as I hadn't packed my two bags and my husband wouldn't know whar to bring. Then they miraculously bought my friend to me as they couldn't get hold of my husband yet to let him know. I really wanted to go home first bur I didn't have enough time. I was then at work telling then I had to go to hospital so I couldn't stay all day. I was whisked off in a chair by a nurse so she could scrub me but it was done with tiny hand wipes 😅 I was still going on about my bags but I woke up not long after that.
I think I need to stop eating cheese and chocolate at nightime 😅
Donna Chaney I find myself dreaming constantly now. I just thought it was due to the hbp meds they have me on. But ... Read more
Donna Chaney I find myself dreaming constantly now. I just thought it was due to the hbp meds they have me on. But I have weird dreams and always about the surgery or either what I just watched on t.v
Tracy Simmons I can totally relate to your post, but my bizarre dreams happened after surgery. One of them include ... Read more
Tracy Simmons I can totally relate to your post, but my bizarre dreams happened after surgery. One of them included me helping solve an "X Files" crime with Scully and Molder. I'm not even a huge fan of the show, but my husband is. Another was me waking up with giraffe spots on my legs - so very strange. I think that had something to do with all of the iodine (SP?) I had one me when I came out of surgery. They have since subsided, I kind of miss them though - ha ha.
Nicola Laker Oh dear. If I'm like this now what am I going to be like after surgery 😅. I think I will have a no ... Read more
Nicola Laker Oh dear. If I'm like this now what am I going to be like after surgery 😅. I think I will have a notebook by my bed so I can write them down as soon as I wake up. Glad im not the only one! I'm not keen on X files either but in wouldn't mind Mulder ( is that the mans name?) n my dream 😅
Sophia Ridley :) I had some odd ones too before and after. Found that I've been having more actively ones where I d ... Read more
Sophia Ridley :) I had some odd ones too before and after. Found that I've been having more actively ones where I don't feel I've slept recently, think that's due to returning to work. More exercise I do the better I sleep.
Did have one that was helpful and you might like... I was with all those having surgery at the same time and we were happily walking through well lit tunnels until we came to a cavern. I then saw a massive staircase like they have in a block of flats going round and round forever, I could hardly see the daylight at the top. I felt really overwhelmed and slightly panicked; and then a massive shiny escalator appeared (think Canary Wharf tube station) taking us straight up into glorious sunshine! Relief all round!!
In moments when I felt like I was struggling with my recovery I have thought back to this dream and pictured that escalator, it's helped. Welcome to borrow it!! :)
Sophia Ridley Responding to prior post... Nicola, we're here for you now and when you go through this.
I've discov ... Read more
Sophia Ridley Responding to prior post... Nicola, we're here for you now and when you go through this.
I've discovered that my headaches have nearly disappeared due to my Physio treatment on my neck muscles. Maybe treat yourself to a good back, neck and shoulder massage? You deserve one!
If you want to, happy to chat via email or phone. Drop me an email Sophia dot Ridley at yahoo dot com
Nicola Laker The dream sounds lovely! I'm going to keep that in my memory bank thank you ☺ i might look into ha ... Read more
Nicola Laker The dream sounds lovely! I'm going to keep that in my memory bank thank you ☺ i might look into having a neck/head massage. I do think my neck is very tense and with all the worry I had with my husband being ill (he is in remission now which is such a huge relief) I can now concentrate on myself.
Thank you for your email address, that's so kind of you. Every one on here is so lovely. Xx
Kate Watson I can relate, my dreams are ramping up now as I'm getting close to surgery! They are just whacko. I ... Read more
Kate Watson I can relate, my dreams are ramping up now as I'm getting close to surgery! They are just whacko. I think writing them down is a good idea cause they are always entertaining to read later. Sophia, I love that dream, such a lovely image. And Tracy, your dreams made me lol, thanks for that.
Wanda Mroz LOL... funny how our subconscious mind works isn't it? I do have dreams, but don't remember them aft ... Read more
Wanda Mroz LOL... funny how our subconscious mind works isn't it? I do have dreams, but don't remember them after awhile but sometimes they are a bit strange.
Nicola Laker I should get my surgery date this week for end April/beginning May so its getting closer and more ' ... Read more
Nicola Laker I should get my surgery date this week for end April/beginning May so its getting closer and more 'real'. To be honest I havent really talked about it to anyone. My sister thinks it's just an op and her words to me were "get over it as you have had this for 50 years " and basically thinks I'm lying about my condition , so I haven't even got her by my side. Plus there is other issues with her so needless to say, I dont speak to her and I certainly don't want any new found sympathy from her either (if she ever did!). But I plod on and know that once this is over I will be better than I have for years. They can rebuild me 😅 And I'm happy in the know ledge that I have a wonderful husband, although not good when it comes to sick people bless him but he will look after me. And then I also have my new heart family......I feel blessed ☺☺☺â¤â¤â¤
Patti Talbot Yes, at 6 days out the dreams are so crazy. These are thoughts I didn't know I was capable of!
Nicola Laker Well that was a dream and a half I had laSt night 😮 Not one I could really post in public 😅 I ... Read more
Nicola Laker Well that was a dream and a half I had laSt night 😮 Not one I could really post in public 😅 I will never be able to watch Philip Schofield on the TV again 😂 x
Sophia Ridley I'm sorry to hear that your husband has been unwell, you've been through the mill already.
Nicola Laker Thankyou. It's been a pretty rough 3 years with him, nursing my Dad before he passed and now juggling ... Read more
Nicola Laker Thankyou. It's been a pretty rough 3 years with him, nursing my Dad before he passed and now juggling work and home whilst caring for my mum. But as they say, things can only get better! 😆😆 it's going to be strange having people look after me for a change!
My husband has been very lucky and I just hope that he remains well for a long time.
Well its getting closer and just waiting for the surgeon to finalise details of surgery and then the date will finally come through. On one hand it's exciting ...Read more
Well its getting closer and just waiting for the surgeon to finalise details of surgery and then the date will finally come through. On one hand it's exciting and the thought of having some energy and being able to 'live' again will be great. On the other hand, nervous, scared of what might be and my mind is buzzing. Headaches seen to be the norm right now which isn't helpful whilst trying to get things together ready for the surgery. It's been a tearful day today with mixed emotions. I'm sad that I will not have any support from family except my husband (who will have a list of things to do....although I know they won't get done 😅 ). I'm open to adopt some sisters?
Here's looking towards a better day tomorrow ☺
I had my angiogram yesterday (15th March) and so relieved that my arteries are all ok. That's one less thing I have to worry about ☺
I'm feeling the pain ...Read more
I had my angiogram yesterday (15th March) and so relieved that my arteries are all ok. That's one less thing I have to worry about ☺
I'm feeling the pain today and although I have rested my arm, it is aching, sore and very bruised! Hopefully it will feel better tomorrow.
I chatted to my consultant who assured me that the OHS will be ok and that he will see me for an appointment 6 weeks after and when they are satisfied I'm all.good, I will go back to my normal check ups. I'm so glad that I have such a lovely consultant but sad that he won't be doing the surgery. I can't have everything I suppose and the surgeon who will be operating on me is one of the good ones. I feel like I am in very good hands all round ☺ xx
Sophia Ridley Faith in the surgeons, cardiologists and hospital takes you a long way on this journey. I had confide ... Read more
Sophia Ridley Faith in the surgeons, cardiologists and hospital takes you a long way on this journey. I had confidence in them so then I had to concentrate on me!
Rest up, mine was in my groin and took a few days to settle down. Bruise may get worse before better :(
Nicola Laker My groin is still painful both sides after my EP study 18 months ago! It hadn't been painful for a wh ... Read more
Nicola Laker My groin is still painful both sides after my EP study 18 months ago! It hadn't been painful for a while but after my walk today I was in agony! My arm is bruised and tender today but not aching as much as yesterday thank goodness! X
Sophia Ridley Do you have scar tissue at the groin sites? Hope it's all improving.
Nicola Laker I only have teeny scars that you wouldn't even know were there. It's never hurt aa much as it did to ... Read more
Nicola Laker I only have teeny scars that you wouldn't even know were there. It's never hurt aa much as it did today. That's payback for me saying it's improved and not hurting much at all anymore!
Today I had a meeting with another doctor who I found out when I arrived, was actually a Professor. He wanted to discuss my WPW and the EP study I had about ...Read more
Today I had a meeting with another doctor who I found out when I arrived, was actually a Professor. He wanted to discuss my WPW and the EP study I had about 18 months ago. All I was told following the procedure, waa that they deemed the extra electrical pathway safe and didn't feel that any ablation was necessary at this stage. What they didn't tell me, and I was quite shocked to hear today, that there was another one. So I now have 3 instead of one! The Professor is going over my EP study again as he wants to determine if I should have the other one ablated or to leave until.a later date after surgery. The one I didn't know about is definitely being burnt away when I have my OHS. I have left these decisions in his capable hands.
So its angiogram next week and hoping to get my date through for surgery so I can get myself organised and ready for the recovery period. Recliner being ordered next week, small wooden adjustable bed table purchased, new underwear bought and washed, button through night dresses bought and washed (not ironed yet ....I hate ironing!) Also bought a couple of zip up fleeces to wear during the day so no stretching through arms and head required! Getting organised is harder than packing for our holidays! X
Barbara Laurie Nicola,whats a WPW? Sorry, I'm ignorant of that, ans since we have the same CHD I'm curious😄 Of co ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Nicola,whats a WPW? Sorry, I'm ignorant of that, ans since we have the same CHD I'm curious😄 Of course they sent your records to the top guy, you're special!!!â¤ï¸
Nicola Laker Wolfe Parkinson White. They say it always seems to go with Ebsteins. 😣
Not sure I'm that special ... Read more
Nicola Laker Wolfe Parkinson White. They say it always seems to go with Ebsteins. 😣
Not sure I'm that special but it's nice to see the top people in the field rather than the registrar! ðŸ˜
Barbara Laurie Absolutely! Thanks for the info, yes, WPW scary 😳 Sorry you have to deal with that, hopefully they ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Absolutely! Thanks for the info, yes, WPW scary 😳 Sorry you have to deal with that, hopefully they'll have the answers💕
I had my angiogram pre op today. Unfortunately i didn't get to see any of the doctors or my consultant. The good news is that my consultant for the last 12 ...Read more
I had my angiogram pre op today. Unfortunately i didn't get to see any of the doctors or my consultant. The good news is that my consultant for the last 12 years + will be doing the procedure I am so happy! He is such a lovely man and I feel so at ease with him. All I need to do now is to sweet talk him into helping Mr Austin with the OHS! It would be nice to know someone who has looked after me for many years will be there but I can't see it happening 😕 I will just have to put myself into Mr Austins' hands and pray ..hard! X
Oh and my patients guide to heart valve surgery has arrived! One guess what I'm going to be reading this evening 😊 Thank you Adam Pick!! X
Barbara Laurie Oh, so happy for you! I had my pre op over the phone, with blood tests done locally so I never met an ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Oh, so happy for you! I had my pre op over the phone, with blood tests done locally so I never met anyone either😄 Oh, so glad it's someone you know💕 When I was talking to Dr.Lombard, my cardiologist for the last 22 years about surgery I just started to cry and told him I wished he could be there! He was so nice, but at the end of the day he can't go all the way to San Fransisco with me. So, yes, I've had to learn to trust my new team. Praying all goes wellâ¤ï¸
Nicola Laker At least I will be able to speak to him about the pains and the burning sensation!
Going to ask hi ... Read more
Nicola Laker At least I will be able to speak to him about the pains and the burning sensation!
Going to ask him if he will be around when I have my actual valve surgery. I am happy who is doing it but as you say, it would be nice to see a friendly face ☺ â¤
New symptoms have recently started and wanted to know if any members who have Ebsteins Anomaly, get burning sensation in their heart/chest? It is a really ...Read more
New symptoms have recently started and wanted to know if any members who have Ebsteins Anomaly, get burning sensation in their heart/chest? It is a really weird feeling. Seeing the doctor for my angiogram pre op tomorrow and will speak to them about it. Hope its nothing to worry about!
Barbara Laurie Nicola, Ebstein's Anomaly here (as you know) yes, I've had these same feelings. Even before I heard a ... Read more
Barbara Laurie Nicola, Ebstein's Anomaly here (as you know) yes, I've had these same feelings. Even before I heard about surgery. But they got worse with anxiety. 😳 So, I know my doctors paid attention to my description of that pain as part of my symptoms. Golly, I hope you're doing well. Bestâ¤ï¸ðŸŒ¹
I have had a date for the angiogram for 15th March. This is to decide if they need to do a bypass whilst having the cone procedure.
I also received a copy ...Read more
I have had a date for the angiogram for 15th March. This is to decide if they need to do a bypass whilst having the cone procedure.
I also received a copy letter from my surgeon today to my Doctor explaining what he is doing. It is all becoming a bit real now! Feeling nervous but excited about it at the same time. I just want to feel more 'normal" and hopefully having these procedures done will help me!
Sophia Ridley I tell everyone to remember to breath normally during the angiogram as I was so chilled out that my o ... Read more
Sophia Ridley I tell everyone to remember to breath normally during the angiogram as I was so chilled out that my oxygen stats were low and I ended up having lung function tests too... They clip your ear to check your oxygen and that hurt the most out of all the tests!!!
My angiogram was in my groin, keep your leg straight for longer than they tell you and don't be surprised if you get a big bruise. I was really concerned about the test, but it was far better than I thought.
Just saw your other reply. This site is wonderful for the honesty and camaraderie. I felt completely alone when I found out I needed surgery and it's been a God send to find this site.
I work in London (start back next week!) so if you want to catch up for a (decaf) cuppa when you're in town, I'll see what I can do!
Nicola Laker Thanks that would be lovely! I'm having my angiogram at my local hospital under my consultant there ... Read more
Nicola Laker Thanks that would be lovely! I'm having my angiogram at my local hospital under my consultant there but if I'm in town for any other apts before surgery I will definitely give you a shout.
I had 4 wires passed through my groin when they did my EP study at St Thomas' and to this day I still have pain where they were inserted. It's not all the time but painful when it starts. But it's all for a good cause!
Did you have your surgery at St Thomas?
Sophia Ridley I had mine at the Royal Brompton in Chelsea. They did a very informative pre-surgery seminar for pati ... Read more
Sophia Ridley I had mine at the Royal Brompton in Chelsea. They did a very informative pre-surgery seminar for patients and their carers which helped answer many questions. St Thomas' may do the same, if not, then you might be able to chat with the Cardiac Specialist Nurse prior to op.
Do chat to them about the pain in your groin, it could be scar tissue. I had an ache for a couple of months, even raised it day before my surgery and a nurse pressed rather firmly and then after op it was fine (maybe I had other worries!)
My email is myfirstname_lastname@yahoo.com
Nicola Laker I had a really good chat to.the surgeon and the cardiac nurse at my pre op for the OHS.
I will speak ... Read more
Nicola Laker I had a really good chat to.the surgeon and the cardiac nurse at my pre op for the OHS.
I will speak to the nurse when I have my pre op on weds for the angiogram (at my local Hospital ) about the pains I still get since the EP study.
I have a list of their numbers at St Thomas'a so I can ring anytime if I have any questions etc. They all seem really nice. I have met the cardiac consultant / nurse a few times at my yearly check ups at my local hospital as a team comes down from St Thomas/Guys, usually with a few spotty students in tow. They seem to bring them into me quite a lot, but it doesn't bother me. X
I'm with you ... Read more
I'm with you on celebrating anniversaries of exits from ICU.
Take care, and stay strong.