Roy 's Journal

Wow it been 4 years since my valve replacement. I am so thankful for all the heart research that has been done. Not that many years ago my life would have been shortened by the lack of treatment and surgery options available to us today. Do I feel like I did before the replacement? No but I'm still alive and kicking. You just have to accept that there are limitations and pay attetion to them. I haven't signed in on here for a LONG time. If your new to it and are facing possible surgery don't hesitate get it done. You won't be sorry.

There is life after OHS! One of my favorite hobbies is Community Theatre. I am currently working on my 4th show since my surgery. I have to watch the requirements for roles I audition for. ( the dancing isn't happening so much anymore but may have nothing to do with my health based limitations lol). I'm so happy to be living and enjoying life again.

I just wanted to check in. I just celebrated 2 years out from my valve replacement Feb 20th. I had planned on posting it that day. I still feel elated with my results. My only regret is that I fought it for so long before surrendering to the surgery. I felt better right away. I had virtually no real pain (except when I had to sneeze! Lol) I feel so good these days. Even having to deal with some annoying limitations I have. The 'ole grey mayor ain't what he used to be. But hey you just roll within you abilities. Life is precious and so glad to still be around for my family. If your are contemplating or dragging your feet about getting that valve fixed don't wait. Do it for yourself and for your family. You won't regret it.

I can't believe my surgery was a year ago last month (Feb.20). There is no comparison to how I feel this year as compaired to last year. It's been a year of excitement and frustration. I am learning it's a balancing act. I get my INR in check and then it's either to high or to low. Then I just can't get out of AFIB. It's getting somewhat better but still not steady yet. I had a echo in January to find my Ejection Fraction at 25%. I had a med adjustment then another Echo. Now I'm at 40%. I'm learning you have to just stay on top of things. But at the end of the day I am so glad I had the surgery. Was the surgery worth it? Would I do it again? You bet.

I found out excessive heat can be a problem for folks like us. I ended up in the hospital for dehydration a couple of weeks ago. I also understand that I need to be careful extreme cold temps too. Does anybody have info on this?

I am doing pretty well these days. I am now about 3 1/2 months out. My question I need help with is I had severe Heart failure before the surgery. I remember only being able to work 4hours a day. A desk and travel job. I have done some work again but still can't work a full day. I simply just get tired which results in a late afternoon nap. I know this can be normal but I read how many are back to work full time in eight weeks. It depresses me. I still have to take water pills. Does congestive heart failure go away or is it with me the rest of my days?

This Saturday will be three months out from the "Big Day"! I am having times where I just cry and it seems to be for no reason. I know that I can over do it sometimes and get fatigued. One thing I think about quite often is the fact that I'm only 61. I shouldn't have these limitations. Will I ever be the same. I also experience a hard time sleeping.