Queen of Hearts

[HipHopQueen]

Saw my heart today. After being evaluated for a transplant they said I had an abnormal ekg. The doctors referred me to a cardiologist and today they did an echo. I saw my heart beating away. That was a strange feeling. I bright side things. That’s what I call it so I’m glad they saw this before my fistula surgery next week. I’m feeling a bunch of things. I’m worried but trying to be strong. I’m worried the ekg result could stop them from allowing me to get a transplant. Worried about the surgery and using my arm, because I need it for my wheelchair and healing. Truth be told I’ve been feeling tired lately. I thought it was from burning the candle at both ends with work and school but I have to wonder how good this non sleep filled routine is. I am strong. I am tired. I am hopeful. I am the Queen of Hearts.

[cs65 NKF Ambassador]

What did the surgeon tell you about using your arm after the fistula creation ? I can't remember if I had any restrictions other than not lifting more than 5 lb. and not driving. Yes, the echocardiogram is cool - I've had a couple. All I would say is you've got to get some sleep - your body will rebel if you don't! Your arm may swell up and be bruised after the fistula surgery - you can use icepacks to help with that. But using your arm can also help the swelling go down and make sure to squeeze a rubber ball every day to exercise your fistula so it will grow and be usable when you need it. I would also say to keep your appointments with your nephrologist, surgeon, cardiologist and transplant teams and to write down a short list of questions to ask each when you talk to them. Just remember, you are strong and you can do this!

[HipHopQueen in reply to cs65]

Thank you cs65. You just don't know how much I needed to hear that last sentence. Thank you.💜

[LeesKees_NJ]

Hang in there, Queen. Everyone here is fighting with you. You have ALL our support moving forward. This is not easy but you can do it. We are battling here and with a positive outlook and a great health team, you will eventually come out on the other side feeling better all the way around.

[HipHopQueen in reply to LeesKees_NJ]

Thanks LeesKees NJ. I appreciate it. I’ll let y’all know how fistula surgery goes tomorrow.