Last update on 5th valve replacement ... - British Heart Fou...

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Last update on 5th valve replacement surgery

Clairealou profile image
8 Replies

Hi all.

Well, it’s now been 2 months since my surgery so thought I’d give a final update. A few little issues with fluid in the chest which has now gone. My medication has reduced significantly and I am ready to go back to work. Am driving with no issues and I’ve even been swimming a couple of times (with the blessing of my consultant), something I would never have considered with a sternotomy at this stage. So again, sternotomy v endoscopically. It’s got to be endoscopically. Less pain, more movement, quicker recovery. Considering this is surgery no.5, still amazed I’m at this point only 2 months after surgery. I’m feeling very positive, glad to be alive, and even meeting up with another member of this forum soon who was in hospital at the same time as me, to do a bit of therapeutic sheep cuddling on her farm (hi lovely Jane!)

One thing that I think that has really helped is that there were 4 of us who stayed in contact after our surgeries and have really helped boost each other. Wonderful if you are ever feeling down. Having another patient to talk to in hospital can really be good when you’re having a tough day or night.

Ok, that’s it for me now……until next time.

Sorry, should also add that I’m getting to grips with Warfarin with no problems. I’ve even bought a machine so I can test myself at home. Much easier than I thought it was going to be

Thanks for everyone’s support

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Clairealou
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8 Replies
francesw47 profile image
francesw47

I've PM you.

ITSINTHEBAG9 profile image
ITSINTHEBAG9

Just lovely 😍.

Flowerfanatic profile image
Flowerfanatic

Oh am really pleased to read this post Claire and to know that you’re doing ok with your recovery and ready to go back to work too. Great news and I’m so very happy for you. A superstar going through it for the 5th time. Well done you!All best wishes to you.

Sarah

Hello :-)

So pleased to hear everything went well and you are feeling so good to :-) x

Hi Claire,

So pleased for you and lovely to see you're doing so well.😍

I'm not sure if I've mentioned it before, but, you're inspiring, even for someone like me, which I don't say lightly.

I know you'll get out there and live your life, so enjoy.

Regards warfarin, it's not that bad you know, once your body gets used to it. I'll have a drink to you tonight.

Take Care

Heed

Thanks for the update, and glad all has gone well. In the nicest possible way, hope we don;t have to hear from you again

👍

mariah222 profile image
mariah222

Hi Clairealou,I'm delighted to hear that your surgery has gone so well, I remember reading an earlier post where you talked of needing to have a 5th valve op, as I was waiting for my first (and hopefully only one), and being unable to imagine what that felt like.

I have now had my faulty tricuspid valve replaced, four weeks ago, via sternotomy and feeling pretty well all things considered.

Just wanted to wish you all the best, and to say give the sheep a hug from me too.

Mariah x

Clairealou profile image
Clairealou in reply to mariah222

Hi Mariah. Thanks for the reply. Hope your recovery continues and feel free to message with any updates. Thanks

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