Raymond's Posts

Raymond- I can only speak for myself but I found that I thought about the surgery after it was over a whole lot less than I did before the surgery. I found it all-consuming in the 18 months I spent obsessing and being anxious about it ahead of the actual event. Afterwards, it felt like more of an accomplishment - I felt kind of proud that I got through it with much less drama than I expected. The relief I felt when I woke up knowing that it was behind me was incredible. Anyway, that was my experience. Others will certainly chime in here. Good luck next week. The CC is probably the best place in the world for this kind of surgery.

Raymond, because I ran into some complications post surgery, I was super aware of everything. That being said, I knew I had a very talented surgeon and I trusted that he did the job well. My body just didn't react well to all the trauma. Now, I don't think about it and like George I feel a sense of great accomplishment. That's why we call people that have gone through heart surgery warriors 🪖🪖. Some reach gladiator status 😊. Trust your doctors and know you are going to one of the best if not the best hospital. Have faith in your surgeon. Sorry this is so long.

That depends on you. Sounds like you are ruminating now. It's something I never thought about. I thought about the after effects and discomfort and exhaustion and the sound of my heart. But I never felt abnormal. Most people are walking around with something. It's all more normal than you think. You are a singular individual and your experience will be highly personal and unlike anyone else's. Take care.

Raymond I also wondered before surgery how I might feel "different" after having my aorta replaced with a piece of Dacron. I'm happy to say, it feels no different. After surgery I was just in awe of how well I did feel. Not to say there wasn't some discomfort right after. It felt like a small but heavy child was sitting on my chest(and this has gotten better over time) I was sitting up and walking so soon after, it just amazed me more than anything. My experience was similar to George's. I did a lot more worrying before surgery and after I was just so thankful, relieved and amazed at my ability and my surgeons expertise that I didn't worry so much about what was going on inside me. Instead I was focused on healing and working towards being released to recover at home.

I am 3 months post surgery for mitral replacement and Tricuspid valve repair,at first my chest was tight and a bit painful but now I can say that I feel normal again.i am back to work and doing my everyday routine like before. The ticking because it's a mechanical valve and the mark on my stomach are my 2 reminders that I had a major open heart surgery. I thank God and my surgeon for everything. You will be okay too,try not to worry about it too much. God will see you through.

I feel a lot like George commented. I friend of mine asked if I would not longer eat any pork products, since someone else he knew wouldn't after their surgery. I'm happy to say, that it doesn't bother me at all. I do like to joke that I have a piece of bacon as a valve now

Raymond, please know you are in great hands at Cleveland Clinic, but I will say a prayer for you too! I had mitral valve replacement ( pig valve) and tricuspid valve repair in Jan. '22. They put great focus and attention on your case to be sure it works out great. That is evident to me when surgery is over. If you look up George Gardopee's profile on this site, you will find the path and practical details about the experience at Cleveland Clinic. I'm thrilled that I chose them and I will continue to go there for my an annual check up. I live in FL. Have faith, god bless and we'll look forward to an update from you when you're ready!

Is there a reason why it was already decided it will be a replacement? In both my cases they only decided during surgery. Basically, try to fix it. Test it. If it worked then leave it. If it didn't work (still leakage) then replace. Also ask if they will remove the appendage. Anyways, I wish you all the best.

I'm not one to say there is nothing to worry about because I had my share of complications post surgery. That being said, I was thankful to be in the hospital when I needed to be. You will be well taken care of and they know how to treat any complication. i did not have any post operative depression so cannot comment to that but others on this site have so I'm sure they will chime in. Try to relax, think positive thoughts. The odds are definitely in your favor. Stay strong. Keep us posted. Godspeed.

Raymond - Most of us will tell you that waiting is the worst part of the process. I didn't have any post-op depression, lots of heart warriors don't experience that. Resist the temptation to predispose yourself to things that may never happen. Focus on everything going as planned. Schedule something you want to do a month or so after your surgery. Goals are important to keep you looking ahead! You'll be shocked at the amount of healing that happens in the first few weeks. You're going to be just fine! ❤️

Pre-surgery anxiety is the worst! I found the recovery process amazing, as my body got better every day. Once it was over, I was not depressed but energized. You are absolutely going to the A-Game hospital for heart problems. During the months before, I kept having dreams that my heart had stopped -- but after surgery I never had those again! My subconscious seemed to admit that my heart was fine.

Knowing that post op depression is a possibility is the first step. I haven’t experienced it myself, but I warned my husband about the possibility so he can be ready to help if he sees any signs, and I will certainly not be shy about asking for help if I feel it coming on. Forewarned is forearmed!

Raymond, try to keep a positive attitude. You're going to one of the best hospitals in the world for this type of procedure (even if it is in Cleveland...😊 ) I had read about the possibility of post op depression, but reading about everyone on this site's experiences, it seemed that it was not a common thing. This really helped me put it way down on my list of things to worry about . You got this buddy !

Raymond, I am praying for you. I think some anxiety is probably normal while waiting. But I can tell you that it is nothing in light of the opportunity to fix your body and continue to live and be with your family. I am standing with you in prayer that your surgery is going to go well and that you are going to have a speedy recovery. You got this!