New here

[Baffles]

Hello,

I'm Gemma and new here and totally out of my depth. I got diagnosed with Myocarditis in 2013, five years later my heart failure has gone from mild to severe and i'm so scared. I have a long story but with the tears falling so much at the moment I haven't got the strength to write it.

I thought my life was just beginning, I wanted to start a family, travel and live a good life. I can't even believe this is happening to me...

Sorry for the sad post. Here is a picture of me and my darling wife.

[Phildob]

Courage dear, take the time to absorb the news. The rest will follow in good time.

[jimmyq]

Looked it up on Dr. Google: "Myocarditis is inflammation of the myocardium - the heart muscle. It's not related to lifestyle and there are no medical treatments to prevent it. Most people suffering with myocarditis recover without complications, but in rare cases when inflammation is severe, there can be damage to the heart."

That bit got my attention: "Most people suffering with myocarditis recover without complications". I will keep my fingers crossed for you. Good Luck!

[Jamzy28]

I hope you get better was it a virus that caused it

[Nathan53]

Hello Gemma - I imagine how you are feeling is governed by the shock of learning about the deterioration in your heart failure. Treatment wise you could discuss your options by speaking with one of the BHF Nurses on this site - you can call them. There is also a lot of information on nhs.co.uk

It may well be that you can lead a much more active and fulfilling life even with severe heart failure as some of the posts on this site show. Remind yourself that you are still the same person and you have your lovely wife as when you are feeling shocked and deflated it's easy to forget that. Thinking of you both - best wishes to you

[laura_dropstitch Heart Star]

Hi Gemma. My heart failure is classed as moderate-severe and was diagnosed in 2011. While this has a major impact on the life I can lead (I was pregnant with my first child when I was diagnosed and have been told not to become pregnant again - the hardest part of all of it for me) it has not been the death sentence I first imagined. It has taken a long time to come to terms with my new future, so different to how I had pictured it, but I am managing to live a busy and active life and I am happy and hopeful about the future. Feel free to message me if you think I can help with anything. Lots of love x

[Baffles in reply to laura_dropstitch]

Hello Laura, please can we chat? I would really appreciate someone to talk to xx

[laura_dropstitch Heart Star in reply to Baffles]

I will message you later today, Gemma. Do you know about the BHF Heart Helpline? The phones are manned by cardiac nurses so they know about the medical side of things and are great at helping with the emotional too. You should give them a phone today if you can. Number is 0300 330 3311 and it's open until 5pm. I'll be in touch properly later on. X

[Baffles in reply to laura_dropstitch]

Thank you so much xx