02/19/2026
So nice to be home & to see my family!
At home recovery began with some life adjustments: new medication, fatigue, sleep, pain management, appointments & figuring out how to get back to my second home at the clinic!
Lifestyle changes included exchanging some supplements for medications due to interactions. Another change was mood fluctuations, accepting them as they came versus fighting them.
One wise patient/friend told me to get out and walk. Solid advice to get the body moving, improving breathing, pain and outlook. I followed his advice and I’m glad I did!
One of the largest battles has been managing rib pain. I recall pre-op discussions about pain, typically more severe in younger persons. I have experienced pain post operatively in the past, but not on this level. It is getting better using various paramedical treatments. Second battle was fear of “testing the heart” even though my stress test was clear. Still working on this one, but I am feeling well and slowly but surely getting back to “normal”!
If you have any questions about my heart story, please send me a DM and I’ll do my best to answer!