Nathan's Posts

It has been over nine months since my open heart surgery (OHS). During that time I have experienced struggles, joy, failure, and triumphs but through it all I have had hope that I would become a new man one day. With the love and support of my family, friends, and most of all my wife Elizabeth, I can confidently say that I am better now than I was before I went under the knife August 20, 2013. Recently, I worked on a house project in the garage. It require a lot of physical exertion for over five hours. Before my OHS, a task like that would have taken two weeks to complete. I thought that was normal. I finished the task that afternoon, and still had more in the tank. I was blown away by my stamina and energy throughout and after the project. My quality of life is so much better now. I am so blessed to have a new "normal." I now run about 12 miles a week with a small group, play golf, and will soon start introducing more weights to my workout regimen. I have never been overweight, but have lost 16 pounds since surgery. Best wishes and lots of prayers to all that are about to have surgery, or are going through the recovery process. OHS will make a different person literally and figuratively.

It has been nearly four months since surgery. I am, dare I say, almost back to normal. I ran 3.5 miles in one day last week. It was an amazing feeling. I have also been able to play with Graham and Reid without reservation or concern. In addition, Elizabeth is thankful I am back to helping with diapers. Yesterday, I did something that I never thought was possible. I stopped taking the last prescription drug for my condition. If you know me well, I hate taking medicine. For the past eight years I have swallowed my aversion and two pills everyday, but now I am off all medication! I am, by everyones standard, a Christmas nut. I decorate in November, play a lot of Christmas music, and drink way too much egg nog. So I want to wish everyone preparing for, going into, and recovery from surgery a very Merry and Blessed Christmas season.

I am now three months past the most difficult day in my life. I never imagined being where I am currently on the road to recovery. I get emotional thinking about how many people have helped me along the way, and the lifelong friendships I have made. God truly does work in mysterious ways. Lynn, Jim, Ernie, and Aubrey keep up the good fight. You all are doing great. Adam, thank you for providing this amazing platform for heart patients to connect and share their stories. It has provided me with so much hope and comfort prior to and after surgery.