Wanda's Journal

So I had my 7 year anniversary on Aug 12. That was the tear I had mitral valve repair. An echo in March showed that everything was working ok! Hoping for at the very least another seven! Also saw my electrophysiologist last month and all was good. I do have occasional a flutter but so far the medication is keeping things in check. Hoping it stay that way. I hope everyone is doing well. To those awaiting surgery, prayers for a smooth one and to those recovering, prayers for a smooth recovery as well. Be well. ❤️❤️

Just wanted to share my experience with the Covid-19 vaccine first dose this past week Monday. I was most fortunate to get it through employee health at the hospital I usually volunteer at. We haven't been volunteering for awhile due to the virus, but they included us in the employee vaccines. I got the Pfizer... the only side effects were a sore arm for two days, tiredness the first night and early next day, and the day of the vaccine I had some very mild waves of nausea that passed quickly the first night. It was not the type to make me sick or keep me from eating, just very mild waves a couple of times. That was it. I get the second dose on March 8. I did check with my Drs before scheduling myself and they all encouraged me to get it... they also had already received their vaccines, also Pfizer. It is a personal choice, but I'm hoping my experience helps someone else make their decision. Everyone stay well, stay safe. Prayers for all in recovery and those facing surgeries in the future.

I have not logged on here for awhile and I feel bad about that! So I’m checking in and wishing everyone with upcoming surgery the most successful surgery and recovery that is complete and quick. You are always in my thoughts and prayers I’m just not diligent in logging on. I’m due for my first dose Covid 19 vaccine tomorrow. A little nervous, but ready for it. Everyone be safe and be well. 🙏🏻

Hello Heart Warriors... August 12 marked five years... five years since my OHS mitral/tricuspid valve repairs. I can’t believe it’s been that long already. These five years have been eventful with a couple of hospital stays... three to be exact... all regarding a flutter. One for medication load, one for ablation... and a third for another medicine load back in Nov 2017. I’ve had a couple of what is called breakthroughs while on heart rate medication which were short term and didn’t require any other intervention. Last year I had a scare regarding a tiny hole in my heart, but after seeing my extremely talented and knowledgeable heart surgeon, I was deemed just fine as I was... quoting him “no one is touching your valve” and no need to plug the hole since it is tiny and not causing any issues. I also retired back in 2017 and lost my beloved Mother and best friend this past May. She was 11 days short of her 92nd birthday and I miss her a lot but am glad she is at peace and not here to see all the upheaval in this world. Glad also that she passed peacefully in her sleep and went 16 months without being hospitalized after a few years of at least once a year hospitalizations. I am keeping busy while trying to stay safe from COVID-19. I’ve taken up doing painting by numbers finishing one picture and working on another! It’s relaxing. And I have my sweetie LOLA to keep me company. So far heartwise all is status quo. I hope everyone is doing well... prayers and best wishes for successful surgeries to those in the wings, and continued successful recoveries for those on the other side. Virtual hugs and prayers to all. Stay safe. 🙏🏻❤️❤️❤️

Hello Heart Warriors... August 12 marked five years... five years since my OHS mitral/tricuspid valve repairs. I can’t believe it’s been that long already. These five years have been eventful with a couple of hospital stays... three to be exact... all regarding a flutter. One for medication load, one for ablation... and a third for another medicine load back in Nov 2017. I’ve had a couple of what is called breakthroughs while on heart rate medication which were short term and didn’t require any other intervention. Last year I had a scare regarding a tiny hole in my heart, but after seeing my extremely talented and knowledgeable heart surgeon, I was deemed just fine as I was... quoting him “no one is touching your valve” and no need to plug the hole since it is tiny any not causing any issues. I’ve also retired back in 2017 and lost my beloved Mother and best friend this past May. I miss her a lot but am glad she is at peace and not here to see all the upheaval in this world. Glad also that she passed peacefully in her sleep (11 days shy of her 92nd birthday) and went 16 months without being hospitalized after a few years of at least once a year hospitalizations. I am keeping busy while trying to stay safe from COVID-19. I’ve taken up doing painting by numbers finishing one picture and working on another! It’s relaxing. And I have my sweetie LOLA to keep me company. So far heartwise all is status quo. I hope everyone is doing well... prayers and best wishes for successful surgeries to those in the wings, and continued successful recoveries for those on the other side. Virtual hugs and prayers to all. Stay safe. 🙏🏻❤️❤️❤️

Hello all... I've been lax in posting any updates lately. I hope everyone is doing well. It's been quite a whirlwind this year hasn't it? In Jan/Feb I had cataract surgery on both eyes. I opted for the laser one. It went well and the colors and brightness are awesome! I had some double vision issues prior to surgery due to the fact that my one eye was so much worse than the other... had some double vision after, but it seems to be just a focus thing hopefully. Hardly happens anymore and usually it is due to dry eyes and tired eyes! Keeping track of it though... my eyes have been deemed good. I wonder though, has anyone here had any double vision issues after OHS? I recall having some after my surgery and always wondered if it was due to the heart/lung machine somehow. Anyway, surgeries on eyes went well, and I'm adjusting to my new vision!! While keeping myself and my 91 year old Mom safe from COVID19, and having her doing pretty well as she had congestive heart failure and two very leaky heart valves, we managed her meds and diet and she was hospital free for 16 months! A record as she had been hospitalized at least 1 time per year if not more. Sadly, my Mom passed away in her sleep on May 1. She lived with me forever, so I found her that morning laying peacefully in her bed. She was my Mom and my best friend and I miss her and at the same time count the many blessings that having her pass so peacefully brought. There weren't any red flags to indicate this would happen, but at 91, 11 days shy of her 92nd birthday, it was nevertheless a surprise. I'm an only child, and we were close. She is in a better place though, and isn't stressing over the current world events. Thus far my a flutter issues are status quo in spite of all of the stress we are all enduring these days! I hope that everyone is doing well and keeping safe. I am trying my best! Prayers and best wishes to all who are having upcoming surgeries... and also to those who are recovering. Be well everyone, be safe. Hugs and prayers!!

I wanted to share this story which is not heart related, however, the Dr that performed this double lung transplant is a thoracic surgeon and just happens to be my heart surgeon as well. Dr Hassan Nemeh at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan fixed my valves 4 and a half years ago. A skilled, learned and most compassionate surgeon. https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2019/11/12/henry-ford-medical-team-touts-double-lung-transplant-vaping-patient/2572937001/

Hello Heart Warriors... I have been remiss in checking in on this site. Was really busy with home improvements among other things. Wanted to wish everyone a very Happy New Year. May this decade bring all of us much peace and happiness and good health!! I'm starting my year by getting cataract surgery this week! Looking forward to seeing better!! As always, to all of those awaiting surgery, may it be quick and successful... and all those in recovery, may it be complication free and complete. God Bless you All. Hugs and Prayers.

I went to see my surgeon a couple of weeks ago, ten days before my ASD closure was scheduled. He went thru my TEE frame by frame several times and he assured me that the valve was functioning well... he said that most people who have a repair have some leakage... it’s normal and that mine was mild! He thinks the younger eager Dr who has skills and the tools was eager to get into fixing something but that it was not necessary... and that no one was was touching my valves! He’s the top guy there.. section leader, and I trusted him with my life once and I trust his take on it. He spent a lot of time going thru everything with me, explaining everything. My valve has been stable for several years after surgery and could very well remain there for a long time. He then looked at my ASD.. he said it was very tiny and barely leaking and that he did not see any strain to my heart and he felt it should be left alone! I was dumbfounded... in Shock! But very happy to hear that. He said you don’t invade a heart unless absolutely necessary and it wasn’t necessary. I should be monitored yearly, and he spoke to my cardiologist who agreed with his evaluations. She had actually sent me to the structural heart team for evaluation and closure if needed, but the young eager Dr just wanted to do it. He would not have made this decision alone so I’m fortunate for that. Went through a lot of stress and worry but am glad of the outcome. I have the best surgeon who truly is caring and precise and I’m very blessed that he is taking care of me. Thank you everyone for all of your prayers and caring thoughts... I really appreciate them. Hugs to you all... prayers to those awaiting surgeries and those in the healing phases. It will all be well. 🙏🏻💞

My ASD closure is scheduled for Oct 14. It is thru a cath and should be one day in the hospital. Considered very common, low risk. But I’m still nervous. After getting thru OHS, you’d think nothing could phase me but it does nevertheless. I’ve e gotten thru worse and this too shall pass! To everyone waiting for surgery or in recovery... this too shall pass! Prayers and healing thoughts.💞🙏🏻

So I had my TEE Sept 5. I have the ability to read my test results myself online. I opened them up the next day and it said that my mitral valve leak was mild to moderate which is where it has been for a couple of years now. I relaxed a bit because I felt that was good news. On Mon, Sept 9, an appointment was scheduled for me with my Thoracic Surgeon!! This scared me because no one had called me. Luckily it was scheduled on a day I could go. The Dr. at Structural Heart Intervention had not called me with test results yet, so I emailed the surgeon's office asking why this appt was scheduled. Didn't take long before the Structural Heart Dr's Nurse called me to apologize because she was under the impression that Dr. V we'll call him had already called me and explained that he now wanted to do a CAT scan because he wasn't completely sure that the valve wasn't leaking more. The appt to the heart surgeon was also part of the procedure. I was rather upset and emailed my regular cardiologist again with my concerns. I had also spoken to my electrophysiologist during my six month ck up and he felt that the valve was not leaking more and encouraged me to contact my regular cardiologist which I had already done, and advised that I keep the appt with the surgeon just to touch base with him. That Weds, Sept 11, Dr. V called me and apologized that he had not called me sooner to explain why he wanted the CAT scan and why the appt was made with my surgeon. He told me he just wanted to be sure the valve didn't need intervention. I was not happy because although the CAT scan isn't difficult, why subject yourself to the dye if it isn't necessary. Thursday, Sept 12 I spoke to the electrophysiologist who reiterated his previous concerns. On Friday, my cardiologist called... she advised that the only problem she referred me to Dr. V for was for the ASD closure. She also advised me that if the Dr. had concerns about the leakage, he could call her direct. She advised me to cancel the CAT scan telling me that my valve was stable and that no intervention was needed. She has been my cardiologist for 7 years, and knows my case, so I trust her judgement since she has 20+ years of experience. On Mon, Sept 16, I called Dr. V's nurse explaining the situation and cancelling the CAT but keeping my appt with my surgeon. Two hours later, Dr. V called me and advised that the CAT was cancelled and that he had conferred with my cardiologist and that they were all on the same page now agreeing that the ASD should be closed but that no other intervention is needed at this time. I was very happy to hear that and am waiting for a call from the cath lab to schedule the closure which is a catheter procedure that is fairly simple. Morale of the story is... if all of your Drs aren't on the same page about things, take the initiative to ask what is going on and why this is so. I trust my cardiologist to do the right thing and I trust my surgeon with my life literally! So I asked questions which ultimately put my mind at ease and alleviated some of my stress. Once I am scheduled I will update. For all those with upcoming procedures, best of luck and prayers for successful surgeries and recoveries. For those recovering, keep on getting better brothers and sisters!

Aug 12 was my 4 year anniversary for OHS to fix my mitral and tricuspid valves. Time flies. Yesterday I had my appt with the structural heart Dr. regarding my ASD. Dr was very nice... very thorough in his explanation of things, and his manner was superb. He explains things showing you on a model what is going on and how it will be fixed. The good news was that the hole can definitely be fixed via catheter. That being said, there is another little issue. Of course there would be in my world eh? The hole was made during surgery as they have to make one to access both ventricles. Most of the time the hole heals up on its own... doesn't need plugging. Mine did not heal. My mitral valve was repaired four years ago and for most people it lasts about 10 years before anything needs to be done again. My last echo showed that my valve is leaking a little bit more now. So before they seal up the hole they want to do more testing to see if that valve needs intervention. I need a TEE (transesophageal echo which I've had a few times). Dr will check to see how much the valve is leaking. If it's not a big deal, they will just seal up the hole and watch the valve. If they feel that it needs repairs or more probably replacement, he advised me that it can be done via catheter as well. I am only be a candidate for the catheter valve because I've already had open heart surgery and doing another one holds greater risk which qualifies me for the catheter. If the TEE shows more leakage, the Dr is going to schedule a CAT scan of the heart. That information will be shared with all the other surgeons, Drs, nurses on the heart team at their weekly meetings and they will all discuss which plan would be right for my situation. They go over every patient's history individually to do what's best. So, that's the story. I wasn't expecting the valve issue so soon, but it was a difficult fix so the fact that it was fixed in the first place was amazing. It took a special surgeon to fix it. At least the hope of catheter procedure rather than more surgery is hopeful but I'm hoping for just the hole closure for now. I also want to touch base with my cardiologist because I wasn’t expecting this twist to crop up To all of those awaiting surgery... prayers and all the best. To those in recovery, hope it is smooth and uneventful. 💞

So I haven’t been on this site in awhile. But I need some support now so here I am. I’ve been through OHS (2015) to fix a mitral valve and tricuspid valve. I’ve also had subsequent aflutter issues requiring a cardioversion and an ablation as well. A couple of years ago, an ASD was discovered that my cardiologist was keeping an eye on. After my most recent echo I was told that it should be fixed because it has gotten a little larger. So I await a call from the structural heart team for their diagnosis. You would think I’d be used to this having gone thru OHS, but I find myself scared... and I’m so anxious I can’t stand it. I’ve been told these things are nowadays usually repaired via catheter, but... until I know what’s up I’m a mess. Anyone on here have an ASD repaired? Anyway, I’m wishing everyone awaiting surgery the best, and everyone in recovery the best. I may not be on this site often but I do say a prayer for everyone all the time. Any feedback on ASDs appreciated.

I'd like to share my experience with the dreaded colonoscopy for those who are a) post surgery; b) Coumadin patients; c) are prescribed the Suprep Bowel Cleanse prior to the test; and d) may be on a heart medication such as mine, Tikosyn aka dofetilide. If you look up the drug interactions of dofetilide and the bowel prep, you will see that a major interaction can occur which can affect the heart rate. I was taken off of my vitamins, magnesium supplement and aspirin seven days prior to the procedure. Coumadin was stopped five days prior. The day before the colonoscopy, nothing but clear liquids were allowed. I was cautioned by my electrophysiologist to stay hydrated at all costs as this itself can affect one's heart rate. I chose fluids that were enhanced with nutrients such as Propel, Vitamin Water, Coconut Water and chicken broth. Nothing with red or purple color though! I kept myself hydrated all day. At 6pm, I had my first dose of the bowel prep, 6 oz bottle mixed with 10 oz of water. It was not bad tasting at all... cherry flavored with a little saltiness to it. Drink it with COLD water and use a straw and it should go down. During the hour following the dose, you MUST drink two additional 16 oz glasses of water. This keeps you hydrated and is a MUST. I bought a large 33 oz bottle of Smart Water and it was not difficult to drink it all within the hour. The prep works FAST and I didn't stray far from the toilet for about 3 hrs. After downing the water, I drank as much fluids as I could in addition to remain hydrated... probably another 16-24 oz during the 5 hrs following prep. I had no problems with nausea or vomiting or any adverse heart rate issues. In the morning about six hours before my scheduled test, I did the second bottle prep as above. No problems. Same results. Compared to my last colonoscopy 12 years which used Fleet Phospho Soda (the most vile tasting) this was easy. The Fleet caused me severe dehydration with headache and vomiting... I was so sick! They no longer use that... it has been taken off the market. My purpose in writing this is to just caution anyone having a colonoscopy to HYDRATE! Any prep will dehydrate you, and if you have history of a-fib or a-flutter, it can cause it to surface. Also wanted to mention that although my medication which I took religiously throughout the week and day of colonoscopy had an interaction with the prep, again, the important thing was to hydrate. I just wanted to put this out there in case anyone else has these questions or concerns. Colonoscopies are a necessary evil and lifesavers! In my case I was 2 years overdue because my cardiologists wanted to stabilize my a-flutter first since I wasn't in the high risk category. Good news is that the test itself took about 20 min and I was clear of any polyps... hopefully won't have to do another one for 10 years! As always, feel free to ask questions. Blessings and as always wishing everyone in recovery speedy healing and wishing those awaiting surgery a smooth one. 💞🙏🏻

I am curious to know if anyone here has had a colonoscopy with the Suprep bowel prep solution. I have been cleared by my cardiologists to proceed with my routine one which is two years overdue. Nt concerned about the test, just the prep part since the first time I had one I was very ill but it was a different prep. With my a flutter history I sure don’t want any issues! This prep is something newer I guess. I also take dofetilide for my heart rate and Coumadin but I stop the thinner five days prior. Any input from anyone on here post op appreciated. Best wishes to all my heart brothers and sisters. 🙏🏻💞

So here it is, 6:30 am and I’m awake. My Mom is 90 and having a difficult night sleeping so I’m not able to rest either. She’s been in the hospital twice in June for difficulty breathing due to chf so I’m like a nurse making sure she takes her meds and eats right. Things have been going pretty good the last couple of weeks so I’m hoping tonight is just one of those nights. I’m an only child and she’s all I have so I’m here for her through thick or thin. I am reminded that three years ago today, I was at the hospital, scared out of my mind waiting to be wheeled into surgery. Gosh time flies doesn’t it? Prior to surgery I thought that once I was fixed, I’d be good to go! But the truth is, even though I am fixed, once a heart patient, always a heart patient. No complaints though because I’m alive, and I do feel better than before surgery even though I always thought I had no symptoms. A flutter still haunts me now and then, the last episode being last month probably due to the stress over Mom’s issues. But since then, it’s been good again. I’ve started to try to learn how to relax and meditate at the suggestion of my cardiologist. She suggested an app called ‘Calm’ on my iPhone, and I try my very best to use it a few minutes everyday. Worry and anxiety is a struggle for me to manage but I’m really trying. I do love the app and would recommend it to anyone to try who wants some Calmness. Hoping the rest of today is peaceful. Wishing everyone in recovery speedy healing and wishing those awaiting surgery a smooth one. 💞🙏🏻

I received an email from my cardiologist with a bit of good news... the hole in my heart is small... and has not affected my right atrium so I’m good for now! So that’s the good news. As luck would have it, a couple of weeks ago I experienced a short run of a flutter. It started in the 150s with the all too familiar anxiety verging on panic. I took a metoprolol as I was instructed to do, and within 45 min, my HR returned to normal. I emailed my electrophysiologist explaining what happened and the fact that I had been under extreme stress with my Mom’s issues... they explained that the stress can and will trigger an episode even though I am still on the medication to control it. Thank God I chose to stay on the medication because the episode would probably have caused another hospital stay to be put back on it! Apparently people on the meds do sometimes experience an episode. Even though I know what is happening and have experienced it before, it still never ceases to scare me to death. Since then so far, I’ve been good. My regular cardiologist suggested that I try meditation to help with stress and anxiety and suggested an app called CALM . I’ve purchased the year subscription and am working on learning to be less anxious. Thus far I do think it is helping me sleep a tad better. Tomorrow I’m going for a massage... something I haven’t done in months! I hope everyone is well and healing quickly... prayers to those in recovery or awaiting surgery. 💞🙏🏻

I had followup appointments last month, one with my cardiologist, and one with my electrophysiologist. My heart rate has held since November when I was put back on Tikosyn. The electrophysiologist asked if I was ready to come off the meds to see if my heart rate remains status quo... probably back on metoprolol. As much as I want to come off the med, I’m also nervous because if I go into atrial flutter again, it means another hospital stay to be put back on Tikosyn and most likely another ablation . So my dr said we’d revisit the idea in six months at which time we’d take me off the meds. I’m good with that. My visit with my regular cardiologist reminded me that I do still have a hole between the chambers. I had forgotten that. This hole was not there prior to surgery, so my cardiologist took the time to pull up my surgery notes to see if it was made during surgery. It indeed was because my tricuspid valve was fixed as well and they needed to access both atriums. The hole was closed but for whatever reason, it didn’t close all the way. I’m scheduled for an echo next week to check the size..l if no change no intervention... if it is larger then repair may be needed. Because it is surgery caused it my not be able to be fixed thru a cath... I don’t even want to think about that! We’ll see. My Mom turned 90 in May and has been having CHF issues hospitalized twice last month. Doing well now and I’m hoping she’ll hold her own for awhile. The stress is difficult. Hope everyone is well, and enjoying their summers! Best wishes and prayers to those facing surgery and those in recovery. 💞🙏🏻

On May 12, I’ll be walking in my very first Heart Walk! If anyone is interested in donating, check out the link below. Best wishes for quick healing and smooth surgeries to those who’s surgeries are yet to happen. Always in My thoughts and prayers. 💞🙏🏻 http://www2.heart.org/site/TR?fr_id=3138&pg=personal&px=10706439

Just taking a moment to wish everyone a good Easter Sunday. To those awaiting surgery, be strong and breathe... hoping all goes well during your surgeries with smooth recoveries. To those in recovery, hoping it continues smoothly. My a flutter issues are holding their own thus far with the dofetilide (Tikosyn) meds. And I continue to attend the Prevent Cardiac Rehab exercise 3x a week. My rehab facility is participating in the American heart association heart walk in May in Detroit and I’ve joined as a participant! Looking forward to spreading the heart word. ♥️♥️♥️

Went to my followup with the EP cardiologist a week ago. He stated that all was progressing well. My EKG was good. The plan now is to return in six months remaining on the Dofetilide (Tikosyn). Then we'll discuss what other options there are, take me off the meds for a bit again, and see what happens?? We'll see depending on how well those six months go. I hate being on these meds, but it beats the alternative. Just wanted to take a moment to wish everyone on this site a very Merry Christmas and all the best in health and wealth in 2018! My hope is to not have any hospital stays in 2018 for myself or my Mom! I'm at three this year... she only one thankfully. I'm hoping that my a flutter issues subside during the next year. To those recovering from surgery, keep strong and know that it does get better. To those in the wings... breathe... you can get through this! Blessings for everyone during this holiday season... praying for everyone and keeping good thoughts in mind. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Well heart brothers and sisters.... I was in the hospital from last Weds through last Fri for medication load. Weird part? I ended up in the same room and bed I wAs in the last time I was put on Tikosyn/Dofetilide!! I even had a couple of the same nurses. Positives... my HR remained just fine once it reverted on its own on Tues morning; medication load went smoothly; and EP Dr says no procedures are in my near future! Since I am only less than 5 months after ablation it is possible this was isolated, and that my heart is still healing or perhaps a new circuit formed. Only time will tell. Plan is to keep me on Tikosyn for six months to a year depending on any future incidents, and then take me off to see if anything repeats. If it does maybe another ablation but nothing is certain. Praying that it was still healing and will hold for awhile! So far so good. Wishing everyone a very happy thanksgiving 🦃! We all have something to be Thankful for! Prayers and all the best to those recovering or awaiting surgery. 🙏🏻💞

Since Saturday, I've been having a flutter again in spite of an ablation at the end of June. My heart rate was in the 150s for a few hours, then went down for a bit, then back up through the weekend. The Dr. on call advised to give it time to resolve itself. Yesterday, I thought it was resolved.. I felt fine all day and my HR was registering pretty normally. I decided to continue my normal routine... I volunteer at the Hospital gift shop on Monday evenings (my way of paying back). For whatever reason, I had asked the nurse at the Rehab Exercise place I still go to for the cardiac prevent exercises if they could just check my HR to make sure I was in sinus rhythm. She told me to stop in on my way to the Hospital which is down the street. Just before walking in I kind of felt weird again and sure enough my HR was in the 150s. I quickly got a hold of my EP Cardiologist who asked if they could do an EKG there... he faxed over an order for it and they completed it and verified a flutter faxing him the report. They could have sent me to the ER, but they took care of it there for me which I am grateful for. My EP doctor is kind, thoughtful, considerate and knows I have an 89 year old Mom to take care of so when I asked if I could go home to make sure she is ok and get a ride to the ER, he advised that I could do that. I had no other symptoms. I drove home and made arrangements to go to the ER if my HR remained at 150 through the evening. Then just before my best friend came to take me, my Mom started acting really sleepy and lethargic and in a cold sweat and I was worried that through all her worry she needed the ER! I called the Dr back at almost midnight and he said I was fine to wait until the morning and he understood that I needed to be sure she was ok. She went to sleep, my friend slept on the couch and I tried to sleep but got not much sleep worrying. However, the positive out of all this was that at about 2 a.m., I checked my HR and it was normal again and has been throughout the day. Dr. called me first thing this morning to check on me and was glad I didn't need to go to the ER... also Mom was okay! After a good night's sleep she is just fine. I am guessing anxiety played a role for her too. However, Dr. wants me to go back on the heart med Tikosyn (Dofetalide) because there is a good chance these episodes will recur... that means being in the hospital for 48 hrs for medication loading. I've been on this med before with no negative effects, but it's a requirement so tomorrow, off to the hospital I go for a couple of days. Another ablation is also in my future to try to find this new flutter location. I'm very grateful for a cardiac rehab staff that took the time to take care of me and for an EP Dr. who cares and is there when you need him! And I'm thankful that my Mom is okay even though she is nervous about me going to the hospital. Thankful for a good friend that was there for me too. My a flutter issues continue... Prayers always for those facing surgery or recovering. Hoping everything is going well and smooth! Be patient with yourselves... time will heal.

To all the veterans out there, thank you for your service! Happy Veteran’s Day! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 Having an aflutter episode as we speak... disheartened since this is four and a half months after ablation, but it is what it is. Hoping my extra lopressor kicks it soon.

Had my three month followup with my EP Cardiologist last Friday... you are considered 'healed' after three months. He was pleased with my EKG and with the fact that I only had the one recurrence a month ago for a short run, which, apparently is quite common. When my procedure was done, my Dr used a mapping system to locate the source of my A flutter. What could have taken 6 to 8 hrs to accomplish and find (with multiple ablations) took less than four hrs in my case due to the mapping system used. It was pretty interesting to see the 3d imaging and see the changes in colors when the source of the A flutter was found. Only two spots were ablated as a result. The EP Dr was so pleased, he is using my case at meetings and conferences with other EP surgeons to showcase the effectiveness of the use of imaging. (I asked about royalty fees for me! LOL) In any event, I have a one year followup if all stays good! I was wondering about the maze that I had during my initial surgery and whether it was effectively done. My EP Dr said that my surgeon did a very precise job far exceeding some surgeons' maze procedures. He advised that sometimes surgeons just ablate with no apparent pattern, but that my surgeon actually did a great job which enhanced the hopefully successful ablation. This made me feel comforted as well. All I can say, if the surgeon you have wants to do a maze, do it. As always, to those awaiting surgeries... prayers and healing thoughts for good outcomes. To those post surgery, prayers and good thoughts for continued good health! Happy Fall! everyone!

Well... today I had a short run of afib or flutter again. I was terribly disappointed since I had the ablation almost two months ago. However, it subsided after a little over an hour. I took a metoprolol as advised, and it seemed to work. I'll probably be taking it again! After a little research, I found information that this is not that uncommon so I'm hoping for the best! I spoke to my EP office.. Dr wasn't in today but was advised to take the metoprolol and only to go to the ER if the heart rate is sustained for several hours. I'm sure the EP Dr will call tomorrow. I'm hoping for the best. Now it's time to take another metoprolol and get some rest! Wishing everyone a successful surgery, and smooth recoveries. 💞🙏🏻Blessings to you all!

Yesterday evening was spent with a group of my HS friends at a BBQ. Great fun, as always! What a difference two years makes. You see yesterday marked TWO years to the day of my OHS. Aug 12, 2017 I was enjoying the company of great friends... thinking about Aug 12, 2015... my first night in ICU. It has been a two years that has had some struggles, but for the most part, the valve is fixed and at last check was working properly!! It still seems surreal that I went through all of that, and the scar is barely visible anymore. Since that day, I've had some struggles with aflutter... first bout one month short of my first anniversary. Had a cardioversion, but that only lasted six months almost to the day. In between those six months, I retired! And promptly ended up in the hospital exactly one month later for another bout of aflutter. Was put on Tikosyn which worked but required a 3 day stay. Had a short run of aflutter two months later, finally having the ablation on Jun 29. Now all seems to be well... six months retired on Aug 2; and no heart meds except for aspirin and Coumadin which apparently will have to be a keeper. Just amazing the different courses our lives take, and what different situations each new year brings us. I've certainly learned a whole lot and am happy to share or answer any questions from those facing the same struggles and fears. Trying to live my life fully, one day at a time! To those awaiting surgery, best of luck, and prayers for a smooth sail... same for those in recovery! 💞💞💞🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️

Back on June 29th, I had my ablation to fix aflutter. I have to admit that the procedure albeit nothing like OHS, is more involved than I thought it was. Because both chambers of the heart needed to be looked at, I had general anesthesia and a breathing tube. I was lights out at 0830hrs and the ablation was over by 2pm. Dr. was extremely pleased and confident that he fixed the issues. He even showed me on a graph on his smart phone my heart beginning the circular aflutter when he found the correct spot. Two spots were ablated. I woke in recovery around 4pm? Breathing tube was gone (thank God), but my BP was a little low so my stay there was a little longer. Afterward, I was up in my overnight room and unable to move my legs until 2000/8pm. The foley came out and I was able to get up although I was groggy and lightheaded from the anesthesia. Things to remember... lying for six hours is not easy but necessary. Had a bad backache. There are actually three entry points if both chambers are worked on... one in the right groin and two in the left. I bruised heavily on the left thigh almost to the knee but the right was minimal. The first couple of days, you feel like a truck ran over you. My ribs killed me and they hurt bad when I coughed or sneezed which worried me at first. However, after being stretched for OHS, it would be no surprise to have aches like that after lying on a table for over 8 hrs! I had the ablation on a Thursday and by Tuesday, my pains were almost gone. I also found it hard to sleep the first couple of nights as I was very aware of my heartbeat. That too is gone. I have had no more flutters that I can detect... and it's been 3 weeks today. Today I had my followup. Dr. was pleased with the EKG saying that it was perfect. He also told me that after I finish my current prescription of TIkosyn, I can stop taking it! This was a change because at first I was told 3 months after ablation I could stop. He is quite confident that my issue will not return. I am pleased but at the same time a little nervous about not taking it anymore! Silly on my part I know. As far as the Coumadin, my left appendage (the part of your heart that can cause a stroke if clots are formed in there) was closed off during OHS. However, my Dr advised that 70% of the time, the sutures loosen a little bit and there is still a tiny bit of blood flowing through there... wouldn't you know, I still have that, so must remain on blood thinners. I was hoping to be off, but... overall I guess I should not complain! I return for another followup in 3 months in Sept. I may be able to take Eliquis instead although it is quite a bit more expensive! There is still a possibility that I may need a pacemaker in the future... not related to the aflutter, but because the normal pacemaker that you are born with tends to slow a little now and then and eventually I may need one! So far though, so good. I hope to never have to do the ablation again... but on the other hand, glad I did it and it appears to be 'so far, so good'! To those awaiting surgeries, best wishes, smooth procedures and recoveries for you all. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Prayers and continued healing to all the other heart brothers and sisters as well!!

Happy. Memorial Day 🍉🌭🍔🍺to all my heart brothers and sisters! Enjoy your day and remember the reason for the holiday! 🗽🇺🇸 Hope everyone is doing well either in recovery, after recovery, and those waiting in the wings. Here I am just enjoying life as much as I can waiting for my ablation date... scheduled at the end of June. I find myself strangely 😩 nervous! After OHS it seems silly but nevertheless! Since my Fitbit has done well in alerting me to HR changes, I treated myself to a new on which is more precise and quite telling as to how my sleep pattern is every night! 🌙 I sleep 😴 lousy! Lol. Best wishes for the best outcomes for those with upcoming surgeries! John, Vic, Rose, Darlene, Lyle! 🙏🏻💞