Gary's Posts

Hi Gary. We share AVR dates which means yesterday was my 2-week anniversary too. I was envious when I heard how quickly you were released from hospital! It took me a few more days. great that you’re able to walk so much! I’m trying to get out to walk 2-3 times/day for a 10-15 min slow walk but I’m definitely not able to walk a mile! As for pain reduction, it’ll happen and you’ll get off Oxy as soon as you’re ready. I’m pretty much just on Tylenol now. Sleeping is uncomfortable and nights have been hard. My biggest issue is with afib. My heart is jumpy and it is exhausting. I Look forward to hearing your news of progress and any setbacks (but hoping those are few and far between). Godspeed!

Gary - You will probably want to touch base with your surgeon if your pain level is that high. Otherwise, you can see if Tylenol gives you enough relief. As far as walking goes, i walked for 10 minutes, 3-4 times a day, for the first week. Then increased it to 15 or 20 minutes by the end of the second week. But, if you're in pain, don't overdo it. Everyone should recover at their own pace. When you don't see progress in your recovery, then you need to get medical guidance. Everyone is different even if they've had the same procedure. Be patient - better days are ahead. ❤️🙏

Gary, congratulations on your 2 week Anniversary! If I’m remembering right, you only get a prescription for x amount of pills and no refill. Keep cutting back and relying more on Tylenol. If when the oxycodone is gone and the pain is too much for Tylenol, you need to speak with your doctor. As for ‘speeding up’ your recovery….sloooow down and don’t push yourself so much. Be kind to yourself and listen to your body. You could always call and ask how far to walk and how many minutes a day they suggest for you to be walking/exerting yourself. I was told to start walking for about 10 minutes a couple times a day and work my way up to 20 minutes for each walk. It became easier after awhile. The pain I had was more in my shoulders and back. Back off when the pain hits and try to stay ahead of it with Tylenol. I was also told to take a 1 hour nap in the afternoon. I set an alarm for the walking and the afternoon nap, and it really helped me to not overdo it. That nap was very welcome and amazing! You’re doing great and recovery will come at your own body’s pace. Be kind to yourself and heal!

Dear Gary, folks said it all. Don't rush. I know you are in great shape, but this is serious stuff, your heart has a deep cut, a scar that needs healing. Imagine you had leg muscle ruptured. How long would you have to wait for it to heal, be careful with that leg... Please don't rush this. It's not leg, it's not any other organ. It's your heart. I am 34 and I wasn't walking properly until 2 weeks after surgery, let alone 1+ mile 🙈 we are all different, I know, but keep in mind you are anaemic still, your heart is healing, your lungs have also been through trauma.... There are all sorts of complications if you put too much strain on your heart too soon. Just take it easy!