Finally after 3.5 years of poor health and constant nightly fear of the worst, my operation to repair the valve is on Thursday 10/08 at 8am, I’m first apparently.
By first initial thoughts being the worst pessimist you will ever meet were the worst but I’m lifting myself slowly. I couldn’t have a better surgeon, he’s world renowned so I’ve told them “ you get me through it I’ll do the rest.
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highburyted
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Not long to wait now and to the start of your new life. First slot of the day is always best so you are not hanging around waiting, it's get up & go, go, go.Ask for a sedative the night before if you think you may need it.
Very best wishes for a speedy recovery and go show them what you can do 😊
Had my AVR surgery along with a CABG x 1 on 16th June after being deferred for 48 hours.
I was told on 17th May I had had a heart attack, the attack itself was, we think, on the 16th May. Had two stents implanted on 22nd May.
Like you I had an 08:00 theatre due time. I was nervous (anyone who says they aren't is a fool or lying) but took the view that it was a journey to a new lease of life. I had two days in Critical Care. I've got my first rehab session in a weeks time and clinic after discharge in 3 weeks.
I'm walking two miles in about 35 minutes already, doing extremely well and feel great. Not a real fitness fanatic but I am back to where I was 2 years ago already in terms of what I'm able to do.
Biggest things are to remain positive and listen to your body. It'll be sore and telling you when to take it easy.
You're right to be anxious... I am like you and build things up in my mind... in that respect I was luck and had my CABG x 4 as an emergency, so very little waiting... even a week in hospital was too long, but at least I had others on the ward to talk it trough with - you'll just have to do with us for the time being.
They get you moving fast... had me walking around ICU, and discharged on day 4!
They were obviously so impressed with my progress some bright spark removed all my cannulas in ICU, so when I got to the ward they couldn't administer pain relief as all my scripts were for intravenous, so had a painful wait while they got a doctor to update them to oral.
Chest pain wasn't that bad... vein extraction sites were worse... along with all the pipes, drains, pacemaker wires, cannula you end up trailing about... I even had a vacuum pump on my chest dressing too.
Removal of drains and cannula were quick but sore... they know what they're doing.
That was my philosophy throughout... they do this every day, and know better than me what's going on... but they cannot read your mind, so don't suffer in silence... press that call bell before any pain gets too bad, or you need help.
Up to and during the OP your in their hands... after that you have to start helping yourself, and that will speed up your recovery.... I know we're all different, but you'll soon be on the mend.
For me physically it has gone well... mentally is another story, it takes a while for it t sink in!
Good luck... don't be a hero, ask for as much help/sedatives/pain relief as you need.
After my operation the thing I wanted most was fluid but was too weak and dry to ask for it as often as i Wanted, so establish a rapport with the nurse so they are aware of this need.
I was also out after 4 days after a very scientific test of having to climb a short flight of steps! Have you got support at home and a comfortable bed a comfortable chair and lots of distractions, from books to tv, tablet to newspaper?
wishing you all the best. We’ll be waiting to welcome you back on the forum after your op. We are all with you and thinking of you. I am nearly 2 years post CABG x 4. Be kind to yourself and think positive. One day at a time.
So glad you now have a date as the waiting can be the worst part. I also recommend having a sedative prior to help calm you a bit. Operation first thing is good as things are on the go quickly. My op was also at start of the day. Afterwards I have a vague memory of briefly waking and being told it was 11pm that evening then back asleep until 6am day after when they woke me for a wash. Physio had me marching on the spot and sitting out for a few hours that day and I was out of critical care that evening. Sending you virtual hugs and every good wish for Thursday 🤗
Excellent news and first slot of the day is great as you know that no one else will be parachuted in and you move down the list. When you are able, do keep us all informed of your progress. Very best wishes.
Excellent news - and welcome to the Zipper club on Thursday! There is a lot to do pre op - so you will have little time to feel anxious. 8.00am slot is great - no time to sit around thinking! Please let us all know how you are when you are able to post - op. Good luck.
Now you need to be more positive and optimistic..it helps your mind and body...and gives you more strength the fight begins with you..we wish you all the best
Try to keep calm and positive. I know its going to be difficult. But I will be thinking of you tomorrow morning and hope everything goes well and look forward to hearing from you again after the operation. Brian
All the best for a speedy recovery. This time next week you'll be wondering what you were worried about! Rest assured, these people really know what they are doing, you will be in very safe hands.👍
Sending happy thoughts your way. Try not to worry. I know easier said than done but it sounds to me like your surgeon has got your every worry and concern in hand.Blessings and hugs.
All the very best Ted on Thursday. Yeah 1st in....thats the best. I was 1st in 4weeks ago at Barts. Surgeon did a top job and visited me in ICU the next day. All i remember was the anethetist putting some stuff in my arm and whoosh felt high then woke up in ICU. Dont worry all will be in hand. Its been a long road for you in the hospital facilities. Nearly there. Be thinking of you tomorrow as will we all be on here Stuart
Though I havent commented before as I have no real experience, bar the scariness of a heart event, of what you are going through ( I had a MINOCA due to mayo-pericarditis), I' ve been reading your posts and updates and truly wish you all the best for a speedy recovery to get you out of hospital
That is excellent news! You have a date for your surgery and some time to get mentally/emotionally prepared. It is always scary to go into any procedure, but you should do fine!
Keep walking some (as you can) and eating well and you may be even fitter by your surgery date. You have already progressed in the hospital!
Take care and my thoughts and prayers will be with you for success! ❤️
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