Tammi's Posts

Lisa Fuller and her family have been on my mind and in my heart so much these past few weeks. So much so, that I felt the need to post. As the days draw closer to my one year anniversary since OHS to replace my BAV, I can't help but think of Lisa as well. To Sarah (Lisa's daughter), John and all of her extended family and friends, I pray for extra peace, comfort and love to surround you even more so during these days. Even if there is no one receiving her posts for this site any longer, I want it to be shared and felt throughout this heart valve community. There is no doubt that there are many others on this forum who have kept Lisa in their hearts and her family in their prayers. She is not forgotten. Thank you for continuing to shine your bright light on us heart sister! ♡

Yes! Almost 9 months post-op and I'm proud to say that I get to celebrate another year of life in this body of mine. I've never felt so happy than to live 45 yrs young. Hard to believe that just shy of one year ago I was learning that it was time for heart surgery. At that point, I didn't even have a chance to really wrap my head around the idea of a "congenital heart defect" and the impending doom that lie ahead before I was told "it was time". Heck. Looking back, it was probably best this way. Anyways, this time last year was all such a blur...such a whirlwind of emotion...not at all what I was expecting or prepared for. But God does that once in awhile doesn't he?! It's that sudden reminder that you're not in the drivers seat. (Fyi, those who know me well, know I usually like to be the driver...even when I'm not always the best driver.) He's good at shaking things up and putting things back into perspective lIke that. ;) As I sit back and reflect on all that has gone on this past year I am so, SO grateful for this wonderful gift of life I've been granted. AGAIN. Despite the fear, pain, frustration and set backs I have struggled with, I've learned even more about unconditional love, gratitude, perseverance, humility, trust and faith. And that's really the true gift we are given heart brothers and sisters. IT'S ALL ABOUT THE JOURNEY. I pray God continues to bless you all and give you the strength you need to proceed forward in health, life and spirit. I am truly grateful and blessed with each passing day and clicking heartbeat. ♡ Yes! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!! :)

Hello heart family. I am now 8 months post-op from aortic valve replacement done via mini-sternotomy. Other than a few hiccup's along the way with cronic Pericarditis, I have been doing good and healing well. However, in recent weeks I have noticed a significant increase in sternum popping, cracking, aches and pains. I also found a hard "bump" or protrusion in the middle of my sternum. I have an appointment with my surgeon later this month to get to the bottom of it, but curious if there are others out there who have experienced anything similar?? I just find it odd that it's happening now. I'm not sure it's relevant or not, but I have been doing a couple furnitue refinishing projects as of late. Clearly, I didn't think doing a little sanding and painting would cause any issues at this stage of the healing process...confused & a little frustrated.