Sue's Posts

At this time, one year ago today I was in the first of 2 surgeries to repair my heart—the second one was not expected! I had a successful aortic valve replacement with a bovine valve, tricuspid valve repair and left atrial appendage. After approx. 5 hours I was closed up and headed to cardiac ICU only to be wheeled back and reopened for a surprise single bypass of the right coronary artery! There were many complications and a new surgical team was assembled lead by the same incredible Dr. Ouzounian. After another 8 hours or so, I was in recovery finally. My physical recovery went extremely well after that—I woke up 2 days later and was told I aged my surgeon and my people by about 20 years! 😅 The past year has been extremely challenging in ways I didn’t expect, but looking back, I’m not surprised and there are no regrets. As I’ve posted in the last couple of months, it’s been hardest mentally and emotionally, but even in that, my faith in God has deepened. Facing heart surgery was by far the biggest and scariest “giant” I had ever faced in my life. It is hard to explain to others outside this community, how that is, but I can honestly say that having this beautiful community of heart brothers and sisters, an incredible surgical team (or 2 ;), and the grace of God, made ALL the difference! ❤️❤️❤️ I am so grateful for my friends and family who prayed and helped me with all the practical things I needed for the days prior and following June 10. A special thank you to so many of you who prayed and checked in and shared your knowledge, experience and encouragement…if I mention names, I’m bound to leave someone out, so I won’t…but I hope you know who you are! 🥰 May God bless each and every one of you with stronger and healthier hearts and all you need to live life to the full! Much love to you all! ❤️❤️❤️