Heartmates

Janie bmjflint@clandjop.com Jan 05, 1998 06:30 pm

I don't fall into either the young or old age group. My husband had a small heart attack in August at age 46. We both are now 47. It was a surprise to everyone who knows my husband, as he is a laid-back person with no known risk factors. He did not have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, family history, or previous symptoms. He has never been overweight, nor smoked, and was not under great stress. The doctors could give us no reason for him to have had a heart attack, except just bad luck. Of course, that answer was unsettling as well. He had no symptoms at all until 4 days before the attack. He was self-employed in home repairs, and physically active. We would love to hear from others who might share this same set of circumstances. He had an angioplasty done on one artery with two small branches. He is doing well and shows no signs of problems, but with this coming out of the blue before, it's hard not to be anxious. He has always healed extremely fast from any injury or illness. We had to laugh when the nurses in the CCU would come in and see him and ask what he's doing there. The doctor prescribed Lopressor and Lipitor. The doctor agreed to take him off the Lipitor after two weeks since his cholesterol reading in the hospital was 155 (LDL 105). But the Lopressor has caused his triglycerides to rise from 115 to 475. So the doc wanted to add back the Lipitor and start him on Lopid. I know this is not a medical site, but this does relate to emotions because we get so frustrated at having more meds. recommended to counter the first, when he had no risk factors, and even the doctors said there was no reason for him to have had an attack. We also have questioned if the "thyroid storm" he had in 1980 could have led to the damage. We get conflicting anwers, and would love to know if anyone out there has any info or can relate to that as well. Sorry this is so long, but it's such a relief to find somewhere that we might meet others who share our frustrations.

Kathy Rocks krocks@innernet.net Jan 17, 1998 08:43 am

Hi. I am a cardiac spouse and a mental health therapist working with our local hospital hoping to implement a psychosocial component to their cardiac rehab unit. I would like to hear any ideas about how to get started AND about reimbursement for the therapist/facilitator.

Debi DTURTLE1@e-mail.msn.com Jan 25, 1998 10:00 pm

Hi, I'm rather new to this.Paul (47) Had triple by-pass on oct 29th. Life has made so many changes since then and there dosent seem to be anyone here that understands what I'm fealing. I have ordered the heartmate book but haven't recieved it yet. What I want to know is dose the fear ever go away? I still find myself waking up at night just to look at Paul just incase. We had two friends die this week both of heart problems, both the same age as Paul. Does it get better?

Lisa Cheney lisatrains@juno.com Feb 06, 1998 04:51 am

Hi, there are so many things I need to know. My husband, age 44, had a massive heart attack (2/3 of the heart), full heart failure twice(Sunday was the last one), was in a coma for 13 days, and awoke very slowly. He's also diabetic. The doctors say he may come home this week-end. I'm glad about that since it's been a month since this all started but I know it will bring adjustments for the whole family. My fifteen year old daughter has struggled throughout this and my eleven year old son has his moments. How do I help them adjust? How do I help Rick adjust? My fear is the heart failure reoccurring because so much of his heart was injured and his cardiac output is only 20, maybe 25%. I'm also looking for salt free recipes appropriate for a diabetic.

CeCe Feb 08, 1998 12:06 pm

This is my first time to post on this site. Rhonda, I read through the sample of the meditation and cried the entire time. I feel as though I have just pretended nothing is different in our lives, but I have been feeling very tired and irritable lately. My husband had a by-pass almost three years ago, but we both thought that he was ok. Right before Christmas, he became very ill with CHF and our life is only just beginning to change. I really did not plan on writing here, but I know that I need support to deal with this. I think I felt that if I didn't write, then everything would go away and be back to normal and that he would no longer be sick and my life would not change. I only hope that I have the strength and courage to face each day and be supportive rather than be the problem. I cannot thank you enough for this site and the opportunity to release some of my fears, anger and sorrow. CC

RHODA LEVIN heartmates@outtech.com Feb 09, 1998 05:19 pm
Home Page: www.heartmates.com

Ce Ce, Thanks for writing your feelings. Please write again and leave your email address so that others can respond to you, which I am sure they will want to. I can imagine how shocked and frightened you must be. My best to you for your recovery! Sincerely, Rhoda Levin

Janie bmjflint@clandjop.com Feb 11, 1998 10:29 pm

I sent a message to Debi last night, but it was returned as undeliverable. I sent it off again tonight. But thought I would post here letting her know I'd tried to get in touch. If you would like to, Debi, e-mail me and I will try to get the messge to you again.

Jamie JAMIEDAN@prodigy.net Feb 13, 1998 09:40 am

Hello, I'm a 28 year old female with postpartum cardiomyopathy and Right ventricular Tachycardia. I have no syptoms of CM they accidentlly found it when they did an echo to see the arrhythmia. My Cm is consisdered minor and the arryhthmia will be taken care of in March with ablation. I'm on Coreg and Coumadin. The Coreg just dropped my pulse rate to 55 avg. I have no syptoms of bradycardia(dizzinesss,etc) It's my MENTAL health that is not faring too well. I have a 2 year old and a 6 month old and my soul mate for a husband. This is what makes me emotionaly crazy having a great family that I may have to leave early and not be here to protect them. My prognosis is good yet I am so scared and just wish someone could help me. I tried therepy twice. One therapist thought if I dealt with my past horror then my heart will get better and she thought I was being delusional when I told her I almost died for V-Tach and that now I can't get death out of my head. Sh ehandle it extremely wrong. The 2nd just wanted to medicate the hell out of me before she even knew what was wrong with me. Please help me. JAMIE

Bob Feb 13, 1998 10:26 am

Hello all. I'm new to this site, but not new to cardiac problems. I'm a 44 year old male, married with three children. My first "episode" occurred in 1985, when I had an MI followed by angioplasty & three weeks in the hospital. I was 32. My second MI occurred in 1988 and was again followed by angioplasty on another artery. Last March, I experienced atrial fibrillation & it was discovered that I had suffered a third MI and that the artery cleared in 1988 had completely (100%) closed off, but the heart was being fed collaterally. Three weeks ago, I experienced angina for the first time and I am having my stress test today at 1. I have to say, without any doubt in my mind, that my survival up to this point has been due in great part to the support that I have received from my wife & children. We are now going through this uncertain time again, and bypass surgery may very well be in my future. The toll it takes on the support network (fancy name for loved ones) is immense. I just wanted to say thanks. We patients often feel bad that we're causing anguish, and sometimes it's difficult to put into words. We're riding the emotional rollercoaster, to be sure, but so are you. If you're a supporter, and your patient is having difficulty saying thanks, I'll do it for them. They feel it - they just might not know how to say it. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Wendy Veselka 203-6655@mcimail.com Feb 14, 1998 02:29 pm

I am looking for other young heart transplant patients. My husband is 23 and I am 22. We are waiting on a heart for him. He has an enlarged heart, cartiomyopothy, arithmia, and atrial fib. We are doing ok, but we both need other people who are young and going through this. Any other sites anyone knows about refering to transplants are welcome too. Thanks

nancy knutson nancy119@idt.net Feb 18, 1998 09:55 pm

I am a 57 year old female who is 22 days out of a triple bypass. On Dec. 16, 1996 I had a MI...followed by an angio and , then, 6 months later another angio.....the angina returned after 7 months.....have a positive attitude, I think! Would like to talk to others who have traveled this path....seem to handling the healing well....not crazy about the changes in my chest, but, imagine with a bit of good art work might pass for a masterpiece at some time.

Peter Thompson kerpet@netcom.ca Feb 25, 1998 07:04 pm

Hi. I am a lawyer acting for the widow of a cardiac patient who died two weeks after a double bypass (one week after discharge). The surgeon said that a mistake was made by the pharmacy for not checking the discharge medications and by the intern for not including enteric ASA in the list he went home from hospital with. He was on Heparin while in hospital until the day before his discharge but was given no prescription for Warfarin at all on discharge and no other anti-coagulent. He had a history of prior DVT and clearly was a moderate to high risk candidate for an embolism. He was told that the risk of death was 2-4%. The post mortem showed a massive pulmonary embolism and the view is that it probably took a number of days to reach the lungs and attain its size. The surgeon says it would not have made a difference for him to have ASA or Warfarin even though he says that the patient probably should have been given same. Does anyone know of any definitive study which may assist the case? The unfortunate widow was clearly given the impression by the surgeon in 1991 that a fatal error was made and now to make the case I need some authority and an expert opinion. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

patti ronniey@ssisp.com Feb 26, 1998 02:01 am

My husband had a M.I. 1/3/98. I rushed him to the Hospital as he held his crest.It was 7 a.m. By 8 a.m. He had no pain, and wanted some orange juice. I left for a short time and upon my return he started getting more pain and within min. He had a total occlusion. He had to be sent to another Hospital 40 min. away. We tried to keep up with the ambulance. At one point I screamed , the terror that came out of me scared me upon hearing it. This couldn't be happening was removed with that scream and in its place was a feeling that this woman was prepared for battle. I knew I would have to face him alive or dead I wasn't sure if he was going to live through the ride. He did! A team was waiting for him to do his angioplasty. I couldn't see myself a widow at 38 or anytime.The process that takes over you is remarkable trauma, traumatic trauma. To me a invisible semi ran through our house and pulled me with it. It had my Ronnie smashed on the front and I was trying to hold on to the back wheel flap. And it was moving fast. My healing process is just starting ,I haven't had time because I have learning and managing and opening a new restaurant in our kitchen. And besides, I wouldn't break until it was over. The immediate crisis anyway.Our first good report, I started feeling real unfocused after because it was good news I fell into a little depression for a few days and I couldn't do anything. Janie a heart-mate shared her experience of walking through the door. The door for me was my willingness to let it all out. I did and my Husband held me, and it was the first step toward integrating back in my body, I have felt like a hologram and shattered into many pieces. Thanks to Rhoda Levins book and the Heartmate belief that no one should have to do this alone. I got scared again today and I came home and had e-mail from other Heartmates, Reach out to me if you like, God knows I need you. Patti

Janie bmjflint@clandjop.com Feb 27, 1998 12:10 am

I was glad to see Patti's post and glad she's feeling better. I thought I'd post a couple of lines from the message I sent her in case they might help someone else as well. I had told her of finally giving vent to all the awful feelings I had and shared something I once read years ago: "I once read a description of grief that said it's like opening the door on a huge, black room. You can't go around it, but if you just stand there trying not to look in, it will consume you. The only way to do it is to walk through the door, face the dark, and come out on the other side. Not only will the worst of the dark be behind you, but you will be stronger for having had the courage to walk through it." I think that's a pretty good description for this, too. You get scary thoughts in your head, try to brush them off, and never tell anyone how awful it feels. But you can't deny your feelings, and once you admit to them, they may dissipate some. And there is nothing more healing than time. Right now it's all new, but each week that goes by without a catastrophe builds you up. I also think finding things to laugh about really helps. "A merry heart does good like medicine."

RHODA LEVIN heartmates@outtech.com Mar 01, 1998 03:34 pm
Home Page: www.heartmates.com

Greetings to all newcomers, as well as those of you who have been here since we started the interactive part of the website last fall. My heart opens wide when I read someone's note here, and realize that my dream is being fulfilled: this site is helping to end the isolation that heartmates have struggled with for so long. Keep writing, and do contact others via their email addresses ... you don't have to post here to respond to what you read here. NEW AS OF TODAY, we have established an archive ... a place HOLDING YOUR MESSAGES FROM 1997. Now you can go to the archive to read what was posted last year. My best to each of you as SPRING approaches ... that you will find the COURAGE and COMPASSION you need to continue your healing and energy to hold your family with LOVE.

Steven Cohen catman@pacbell.net Mar 02, 1998 11:01 am

I am a 43 year old man. Last week I went in for an angiogram. Prior to that, I had taken several exercise stress tests (EKG, sonogram, and MIBI). My doctors thought that I probably had one blockage; I thought they could be wrong. When the angiogram was done, my doctor told me that I had three severely blocked arteries (over 90%) and that I could either have a bypass or he would perform angioplasty. It seemed to me that I had no choice, and I said go ahead. As he attempted to dilate one of my arteries, my heart went into "fibrillation;" they called a "code blue" and gave me shock. I am ok now. But I am wondering - was I close to death? How common is this during angioplasty? I am also wondering if I should have tried alternative methods before agreeing to the angioplasty. My feeling was that they felt I was on "borrowed time."

Debbie Brown rrzh67b@prodigy.com Mar 04, 1998 08:12 pm

Hi, I need a little support right now, even though nothing is seriously wrong at the moment. My husband has cardiomyopathy along with chirossis and COPD. He is doing fairly well at the moment, but since I do have a medical background in this area I know the prognosis. I know that I will be facing life alone in the not too distant future and wish I could talk over my options with my best friend. But, as my husband is my best friend, I can't do that because I don't want to upset him. My children live in another state as do his, this is our second marriage and have no children together, so it is not easy to talk to them about it either. How does one cope with facing losing a spouse? Any suggestions?

Lee bfrr23a@prodigy.com Mar 07, 1998 10:46 pm

Hi all! I just discovered this site and am glad to find a place that those with similar concerns can communicate. I suspect my wife may also become active, as a spouse to one who has experienced MI twice. Although the 2 events were significant, no surgery or procedure was recommended or used. After the 1st one in '90, my cardiologist essentially said everything was okay. In 95, my second event and new cardiologist suggested some lifestyle changes. A friend recommended "Reversing Heart Disease" by Dr. Dean Ornish. I went on the program, lost 60 lbs (definitely needed) and have increased excersice extensively. 3 weeks ago at my annual checkup my Dr. says "keep on doing what you are doing". A followup blood check showed cholesterol of 205 and tryglicerides of 276. Ornish recommends 150 and 150. Even though I am on a very low fat diet and have completely eliminated cholesterol heavy items, I can't get this down. I know,it's me, but I believe it's important. Niacin therapy didt not help. This week we have started Lipitor. My concern is that it appears the guidelines you find are so high it is a level where events occur and that little is being said or done about changing what causes the events in our lives. Only after it happens to us is anything at all done and then mostly an attempt at repair. Example: a 43 year old friend who has had 2 angioplasty procedures in 8 years and the Dr says "his cholesterol is just fine", meaning 200 or less. He doesn't have to worry anymore, he died of a heart attack 2 days ago. Those of us who have less than ideal metabolism, family CHD history or other factors apparently must learn from each other and be responsible for ourselves. (Darn it, I want to blame someone else!) Enough! I'd like to hear from any of you with similar concerns. E-mail if you like, I may not be able to find my way back here. Lee Pielstick bfrr23a@prodigy.com.

Charles R. Farris charli04@earthlink.net Mar 09, 1998 12:23 am
Home Page: www.linksmart.com/cardiac (Temporary)

I am a survivor of a quadruple bypass that failed, was accompanied by severe hemorrhaging and reintervention. I am forming a non-profit for bypass recipients, loved ones and anyone interested in a healthy heart. Also, for the benefit of your many members who worry about heart, I will provide the following quotes from two passages that I use in my book, Reggie and the "Cabbage," (not out yet) and which I live by everyday in my new life. I hope they will benefit anyone who reads them. 1. Ask anyone who has survived a cardiac envent and they'll tell you the same thing; every hour of every day is a bonus. You prize people. You understand that they can be as fragile and fearful as you have been. You don't quarrel anymore; you discuss. And you don't grasp at things, because after all, the Creator didn't close His hand on you but let you sit quietly, like a butterfly, on his palm.

And next, a biblical passage. Then Jesus said to his disciple; "Therefore I tell you do not worry about your life, What you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothes. Consider the ravens; They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn, yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?" Luke 12:22-5.

Thank you for a great website and I hope you and your readers will visit mine at http//www.linksmart.com/cardiac. This is a temporary website for a non-profit organization Cardiaction which I am forming for heart patients, their loved ones and anyone interested in heart and coronary artery disease. Thank you. Charles R. Farris

Bill Sloan policia@ees.eesc.com Mar 17, 1998 01:37 am
Home Page: http://policia@ees.eesc.com

My father has had a valve replacement, and since has had 5 agioplast surgerys.He is extremely smart. He is a retired chief of police,and attorney. The best thing about him is his magnetic personality,and sense of humor. Hes is gaureenteed to keep you laughing,please be my daddys e-mail friend. He is one in a million,a million to one.

Rhoda Levin heartmates@outtech.com Apr 13, 1998 7:37 pm
Home Page: www.heartmates.com

Wishes for the rebirth of spring, Passover, Easter, and any other holiday that reminds us to be grateful for this day -- for new growth -- for transformation -- for spring. Heartmates wishes each and all of you full recovery. We look forward to hearing your concerns and your hopes here on Interactive Connections, the living, breathing, supporting section of our website.

Cassandra cass12@jps.net Apr 14, 1998 5:38 pm

My husband Richard 53 just suffered major heart attack. He had angioplasty and a stint put in. We are now almost one month into this situation. My frustration is that I have not been told of a resourse to use. We don't really know what to watch for, what signs etc. Over the week-end he suffered with cramps/pain in his leg-calf. He had stress test past week so was it due to that? Also had pain in his heart. They said he would be able to feel the stint as it heals. And Dr. said to be concerned with tightness in chest. But what about "pain in the heart"? He is on several medications including coumidin. He had a blood clot in the right ventricular and they said the front of his heart was not beating leading to attack. Very minor damage, angioplasty seems to have worked. He looks good, feels better, but we have these problems come up and no one to ask for answer. We have never panicked about medicial issues before, but I admit I am extremely nervous. The unknown is difficult for me. He is to be out of work for three months and will be starting a rehab exercise program next week. Is it common to have all of these anxieties? Would appreciate some input from someone. Thank you.

Terri Adelmann Terri.J.Adelmann@cdsms.cdc.com Apr 14, 1998 8:05 pm

I have found my life in a sudden turmoil and it happened so fast. My father went in because of chest pains and we figured it would be more angioplasti, he has had it done 3 times before. He suffered confusion and the hospital did an MRI and found him to be in the beginning stages of Alzheimers. We had suspected this and weren't to surprised but it was still a shock. Well, he had his angiogram and they made the determination that he needed a double bypass. Let the horror begin.... My father as expected was totally agitated when he came to and it was a horror when they took him off the ventilator. Since then he has been agitated and confused and doesn't always know who we are. It has been almost 2 weeks since his surgery and he still has not come back from wherever he is. He does have his good days but oh god to see him clawing at his gown and picking at the scabs on his leg where they took a vein is doing things to me I never thought possible. My mother on the other hand is not the best care giver that ever walked the face of the earth and she just leaves when he gets overly agitated or she gets angry at me and my sister when we talk to him when he is this way. Surgically he is doing just fine and they are thinking about moving him to a convalescent home for further therapy. I guess I need to know if anyone else has experienced this and if there is an end to it. I know he will probably not return to his old self completely but at this point I will settle for anything close. Please help me before I end a complete basket case!! Thank you in advance, just finding this site has been a help.

Kathleen kbulger@michweb.net Apr 15, 1998 1:48 pm
Home Page: http://www.geocities.com/~lagringa

I attended a session that showed a video from HeartMates -- my hubby, 49, had quadruple bypass surgery last Friday. I consider myself extremely lucky as the severe blockages were found before he suffered a heart attack. I am encouraged to see a site like this and look forward to getting tips on the road to recovery. We have 2 teenagers as well, and they can provide plenty of stress.... I guess I would like to know when I should go back to work. After learning about this problem, I didn't dare leave him alone. He just returned from the hospital today. I do not want to hover too much, but I feel already that I am !!! I am open to any and ALL suggestions!!! I also have concerns about his diet and what would be some good "heartsmart" recipes!! Thank you for this site!

Clarence Wallis CWallis@ukans.edu May 08, 1998 9:28 pm

Hi, I'm a 39 year old steel plant foreman from the Kansas City area. I had my aortic valve replaced whith a St.Jude valve this past January. I was diagnosed with a bacterial blood infection(gram a positive, nutritionaly defficient step) that settled on my aortic valve. My physician had been treating me for pneumonia since last October. This has been a long and trying time for my wife and I. The medications I'm currently taking are lanoxin, monopril and coumidin. For six weeks after surgery I was taking vancomyacin. I'm having a hard time adjusting to the low sodium diet. My wife has turned me into a label reader. I would like to hear from people who have had similiar experiances.

Sue Esposito sesposito@nwci.net May 10, 1998 9:54 am
Home Page: http://www.sesposito@nwci.net

The past year has been a disappointing parade of heart procedures, beginning with angioplasty, an atherectomy, 3 stents and finally a double bypass. Surprisingly, during all of this,although we had our moments, we remained strong together and carried on. The real test began when he came home to recover from bypass and the rollercoaster of emotions that has begun. I refused to face the possibility of losing him thru it all and really believed all would be well. Now he is experiencing extreme pain in his legs and has had a bypass in the femoral artery in one, as well as the pain from the removal of the vein needed to repair the heart. He has withdrawn from me and I feel totally alone. I guess I am not the only one but I feel like I lost my best friend! I have 3 teens and teach as well and there are many days I don't think I will be able to do all I need to. I have a problem asking for help from anyone. Would love to hear from anyone out who has made it thru. I keep asking myself- what if it doesn't get better?

laura prospect@flash.net May 11, 1998 3:48 pm

Hi. I was diagnosed 3yrs ago with "cardiomyopathy" of unknown origins; told that probabaly a virus had attacked my heart. I had gone to the Dr. for sinus infection and passed out on their doorsep. I was 34. I had EKG, echocardiogram, chest xray and radionuclide scan. After 4wks of Lanoxin, a diuretic, and blood pressure med (even though I don't have high blood pressure) I decided not to take these meds. I had constant headaches and was extremely heat intolerant. Two weeks after I stopped, both my spouse and mom said I seemed more like my old self. I started taking CoQ10 and L-Carnitine along with a Bcomplex vitamin. My ejection fraction was 44% 3yrs ago. The problems are 1) I hate/fear doctors 2) I don't know what to expect. I was under the impression that the meds were temporary and would be stopped when the virus had "run its course". Then I found out this is a permanent condition but understood it to be a slow deterioration and so was not concerned. Due to news stories and a local story about a high school coach, I found out that my complacency was wrong. Many stories had people dying or in a hospital hoping for a transplant 2-3 years after their diagnosis. I also learned that other problems can result causing "sudden cardiac events". I don't know how worried to be or if this process has turned me into a closet hypochondriac. I experience extreme fatigue, get short of breath easily, have a butterfly sensation in my chest and often a tightness or pressure but not sharp pain. Can anyone relate to this?

Lyn lynjones@slic.com May 14, 1998 11:12 pm

Hi, I am really grateful to have found this web site. My husband, age 57, had quadriple bypass in Feb. 1998. He suffered no heart attack beforehand, but did undergo angioplasty 3 years ago. Upon discharge, he followed the doctor's orders to a tee. During the past month, he has been suffering from headaches which are not relieved by medication and also some shortness of breath. He was given a clean bill of health by the cardiac surgeon and still has monthly visits with his local Internist who is puzzled by the headaches. I believe he will be scheduling a stress test soon. Has anyone else who has undergone bypass surgery had such a compliant? We would like to hear some comments. Thanks so much for your help.

James Sundquist virtfit@ix.netcom.com May 15, 1998 5:04 pm
Home Page: http://www.directory-inter.net/pacemusic/

SUBJECT: Using music to help heartmates walk for exercise I always thought music could be motivating to help me exercise -- now that I am 50 when it is even harder to stay motivated. But I never imagined it would be possible to walk to music which would be synchronized to the pace of my own age and health and fitness level -- that is until I saw a web site which allows you to key in your Blood Pressure, age, amount of time you exercise, then it calculates the pace you should walk (or cycle) and even suggests a music tape at a pace that was just right for me. It even identified my risk factors and tells me my health and fitness level from Level 1: Inactive to Level 7: Athlete (I was Level 5),. If the age-based formula for your Target Heart Rate has not been right for you. The site's FAQ recommends a great link which will tell you the age you resemble (vs. your chronological age). I resembled 43 (though I am 50), so I can exercise more vigorously (at a higher heart rate) Based on what I keyed in, the profile recommended that I cycle on a stationary bike (my preferred from of exercise) at 80 rpm and use music at 160 beats (steps) per minute. I think this a great site for 50+ people. You can find the web site at http://www.fitnesszone.com/profiles/ The other neat site which offered me a MUSIC-IN-SYNC music pace tape so that I could keep the 14 minute mile (160 steps per minutes) pace recommended by the profile above, was at http://www.directory-inter.net/pacemusic/ I was even able to hear a sample of the walking music by clicking a picture of the cassette on the homepage and run at home on my treadmill. But the tape was most valuable outdoors on a walking trail because I had no idea how fast I was walking (unlike the treadmill which tells you your mph). So the tape worked like "cruise-control" on my car. My cardiologist isn't worried about my exercise pace on the treadmill -- it's that Type A personality in me barreling down the highway without a clue what mph I am walking. Alot of older people are very willing to exercise, but are afraid to because they feel they will over exert. In fact many who are already avid walkers still are concerned about too much intensity or pace. Music at a pace that's just right for me -- now that's an idea whose time has come! If I can't find a person to be my walking workout partner, now I can use a walkman and a music tape as my motivational partner and companion. The more I walk the longer I live. This should be an inspiration to widowed "silver power" singles too. Hope this story and web sites inspire you and other heartmates too! Sincerely, James Sundquist Bloomfield, NJ

greg ritter rittgre@chrobinson.com Jun 16, 1998 4:21 pm

hello, i am a 40 year old male who had a quad bypass in 1997. i had no clue i was in trouble until the chest pain started and the next thing you know i am in the hospital making the decision between angioplasty vs bypass... all 4 of the arteries were 90% closed so i went with the bypass... i have been living in some sort of pain ever since, i would not wish this on my worst enemy. i have had subsequent stress tests and a "nuclear stress test" all of which some no signs of any blockage. still i live everyday wondering when the next incident will be... my questions are am i the only one who has had bypass and had re-curring pain in the chest for this long? how do you go on living after this? the constant fear and worry are taking a toll on me..... i am working on my weight control and my cholesterol level with diet, exersize, and take lipitor daily... just interested in hearing from others, rittgre.chrobinson.com

Cynnie cyn@cdsnet.net Jun 18, 1998 5:07 pm

Hi! My husband, Bob, 42 yrs old just had a moderate heart attack on May 25, 1998. Just acouple days later a angiogram was done & discovered there was 3 or possible 4 arteries blocked or partly blocked. Surgery was done May 28th for a quadruple bypass. The surgeon found a 4th artery blocked 50%. The other 3 arteries were 100% blocked on 2 of them & 70% blocked on another one. We also discovered from the doctor that did the angiogram that one of the 100% blockages was from a previous heart attack 10 yrs ago! My husband had went to the ER at a local hospital then too but they sent him home since he is a auto painter & they smelled the paint fumes & said that was why he had the chest pains! Anyway, I could really use someone to talk to that is about my age or close to it (I am 41) as I am having trouble handling the stresses going along with all of this. Also worried about anything & everything but sure don't want to discuss my concerns with my hubby right now. Thanks alot for reading this & listening. ~~~Cyn~~~

Dawn phoenix@mt-vernon.com Jun 26, 1998 11:16 am

I'm so glad to find this site! On 5/1/98 my 46 year old husband, Gary, had aborted Sudden Cardiac Death while at home. A friend and I did CPR for approx 15 minutes before ambulance arrived. After a week in ICU on total life support, he was moved to a private room and then discharged to see a cardiac surgeon for possible heart transplant. We have 2 kids, ages 16 & 13, who were home at the time and totally traumatized by their dad literally dying in the living room floor. (not that I was much better but I did not have the luxury of falling apart) We knew that Gary had some heart probs but did not think they were too severe. He had an MI in 1993 and another in 1994 but all tests since then were perfectly normal (I thought) I have since learned that they were much worse than we were led to believe. Now we are going thru pre-transplant testing. On the 17th of June Gary recieved an Implantable Cardioverter Defibulator (ICD). He's doing OK so far. I have gone grey almost overnight :). There are days I feel that I'm barely hanging on by my fingernails. Thanks for letting me unload. Dawn

Janie bmjflint@clandjop.com Jul 06, 1998 5:37 pm

Wanted to provide an uplifting update. Mine is the first message posted this year. Barry (47) had his stress test today. The doctor said it was perfect. He told him to stay on the low-dose aspirin and vitamins he takes. His cholesterol is 151, and he doesn't have to have another check-up for six months. The doctor said that if Barry had not had a heart attack, he would say he didn't need to see a doctor for 3-4 years, but feels it's a good idea to have 6-month check-ups for a while. Thought some might like to read that there can indeed be good life after a cardiac event. Barry does any activity, including heavy lifting, with no symptoms at all. So take heart, things just may get better for you, too. I did a lot of research on the net and put Barry on several herbs and vitamins. Feel free to e-mail me and I would glady share what we're doing. It will soon be one year since his MI, with lots of ups and downs. But today was definitely an upper!

Patricia Patrici8@aol.com Jul 06, 1998 10:59 pm
Home Page: Http://Patrici8@aol.com

My husband is 54 and we have two children ages 11 and 9. He had a massive MI in 1987 and another in 1991 which resulted in by-pass surgery. This failed and in 1993 we were sent to Atlanta for evaluation and they did angioplasty. We then had approximately 5 to 6 months of minimal problems and then they began again. He had another MI 1995 and another in 1996. He went into congestive heart failure in October 1997. He has continued to have problems and has started passing out. It has reached the point that we are now waiting on an appointment for transplant evaluation in Atlanta. We have been advised that this is a last resort and in all probability he will not be accepted for the transplant list. He is also diabetic and has been for about 30 years. This has resulted in other medical problems. I have not slept all night since the first MI. I feel like I have been hanging on by a rope all this time and now it is just a thread. I have to be positive and strong for the kids but it just seems so hard this time. We don't know what to expect and the unknown is as scary as what we do know. It is nice to read what others have written because there is no one to talk to that understands what you feel. Thanks for listening. Patricia

Carole Pilkerton cpilkert@dcscorp.com Jul 13, 1998 3:15 pm

On December 7, 1995 my mother underwent bypass surgery at age 45. She had 4 blockages, 3 of which were 99% blocked and one 100% blocked. The surgery was a success. Nine months later she had stints placed in both legs & in her stomach leading to the aorta. She's doing well. Last week my father (age 46) went to the hospital with chest pains & numbness in his right arm. His LAD artery was 99% blocked. A stint was placed in the artery. So far he's doing well. I am 25 & scared to death. I never thought this would happen to my parents at such a young age. Besides worrying about them constantly, I'm afraid this will happen to me even if I eat right & exercise. I'm an only child. I feel on edge all of the time. I'm so afraid of losing my parents. Does the worrying & anxiety ever go away?

Dale P. Burt dburt@worldnet.att.net Jul 16, 1998 2:33 pm

Okay, I may have the wrong address to put my comments down, but it will not stop me having Myocarditis, Cardiomyopathy, Congestive heart Failure (Moderate), and an enlarged heart. All of this came from the virus, Coxsackievirus. Now, I am told that I will be living on medications the rest of my life. All of this happened back in April 1998. If there is anyone else with this problem, could you contact me? Thank You !!! Dale P. Burt (dburt@worldnet.att.net)

Sue in NJ sesposito@nwci.net Jul 29, 1998 10:03 pm
Home Page: http://www.sesposito@nwci.net

My husband had a double bypass in early March 1998. The surgery seems to have been a complete success and he is feeling much stronger but he has developed peripheral artery disease in both legs and has been in almost constant pain since the heart surgery. Has anyone had a similar experience? He had bypass surgery in one leg before the heart surgery but this failed as well after his heart was repaired. By the way... thanks to all who took the time to email me after my first posting. The book by Levin is a godsend- it should be required reading. Your empathy got me through those difficult weels of recuperation (depression, etc.) Bless you!

Elaine jimc1001@aol.com Aug 16, 1998 4:39 pm

I don't know if this is the appropriate site to write to, but if not maybe just putting something in writing will help. My husband, Jim, has just discovered he has a hole in his heart that will require surgery to correct. He's 45 years old and seemed to be in excellent health. He's required, as part of his employment, to have a chest x-ray every 5 years. In his last x-ray (in July 98), the plant Dr. realized his heart was enlarged and recommended he get some further testing done. Since then he's had an external echo- cardiogram & an internal echo-cardiogram. Both tests confirmed a hole in the heart which is causing blood to flow from the left side into the right side of the heart. The right side of his heart is approximately 1/3 larger than it should be. Jim is scheduled for a cardiac catheterization this Thursday. His cardiologist recommends surgery as he feels that as more time goes by there may be irrepairable heart damage. Needless to say, we're still in shock. Is this possible that he could have been born with this hole in his heart that has taken 45 years to show up? Shouldn't he have had some problems? We are trying to accept the fact that the surgery is necessary. Are there any questions we should be asking before we proceed with this surgery????

Patricia Patrici8@a0l.com Aug 18, 1998 11:29 pm
Home Page: http://Patrici8@aol.com

Just a note to follow up July 1998. We went to Atlanta and we were told he is not a canidate for a transplant due to the diabetic neuropathy and its progression. We are dealing with this now. Back to the good days and bad days and just glad he is still around to have them. Thanks for listening. Patricia

Rhoda Levin Sep 06, 1998 11:51 am

So much of our struggle, discomfort and emotional pain is involved with being what I call in the book, Heartmates, "over- responsible.". These words mean a lot to me and I hope they are useful to all Heartmates Connections readers. Written by John-Roger in "Relationships, The Art of Making Life Work": "When your spouse does that thing that can drive you up the wall, you can choose to outgrow it -- not your spouse's action, but your reaction. You can do this if you are willing to own your reaction. Owning it is another step toward awakening. Best wishes from Heartmates for a month of love and understanding.

Vi Anderson andersov@peak.org Oct 03, 1998 1:48 pm

My husband had bypass surgery several years ago. Just recently a coworker had bypass surgery and I have gone through it again with her, holding her hand, listening for her and to her. We have both read the HeartMates book. She expressed yesterday the thought to help those spouses currently going through the same thing at the local hospital. They have a staff person that interacts, but doesn't have the time to "be" there. Is there a local group that we have not heard of in the Corvallis, Oregon area that is a support group for spouses? Do you have an organization of volunteers to help spouses in crisis?

Linda Webb webb285@aol.com Oct 12, 1998 5:27 pm

Hi: My name is Linda Webb and my husband had a myocardial infarction on July 12, 1998. He is still not back to work and is in phase III of cardiac rehab. He is still experiencing some chest pain at rest only. When he is up and active, he had no pain at all. The doctor has reduced his Lopressor which she states has taken his blood pressure down too low when his heart is trying to pump enough blood with enough oxygen thru the arteries opened even more because of the Isordil he also takes. By the way, his infarction involved the right lower ventricle reaching over as far as to involve the septum between the ventricles. We were told if a person is to have a myocardial infarction, the right ventricle is the place to have it. My husband has lost 1/3 of his heart. He has told me, he is the only one so far in cardiac rehab that has had a heart attach. Everyone else has had bypass. I am coming to the conclusion that recoup time is far longer for an infarction than a bypass. Am I correct? I am becoming very discouraged watching my husband trying to keep occupied and wanting to go back to work. The doctor will not let him go back until all of the chest pain is gone. He is getting very discouraged and he ready to change back to his old eating habits which were very bad. Please help if you have any advice. Thanks again.

Steve AMAmail@aol.com Oct 25, 1998 6:37 am
Home Page: http://members.aol.com/AMAmail/default.htm

Hey linda,

Saw your post on the heart mates board. I am a 44 year old male who had a couple of heart attacks two years ago. Second onme was a killer (literally) and threw me into a coma for a couple of weeks as well as racking up a batch of brain damage.

I was wondering what is ment in the post that I/3 of you husbands heart is lost. Some of the numbers they throw around are pretty shocking and confusing and if not explained can be down rite scarry. If he is refering to the EF ratio (the amount of blood the heart can pump compared to what it can hold), that is a spookey one after a MI. A normal EF is around 50-60 what is his? Also, this close to a heart attack, the heart is still pretty beat up, but as it recovers that EF can rise. Like any muscle that is damaged there is a good amount of swelling which will reduce and increase some capacity. I started out with an EF of 18-20 after the last MI and we were talking transplant. Glad to say, even though it took over a year and a half plus a batch of med combos it has receintly jumped to 28-30 and I can keep this oldbeat up ticker. Thats geart with me.

Get the numbers explained by the Dr. No sense him in running around with the Heart Attack Hebee Geebees if a little reassurance can be given.

As for not working, they wont let me anymore, but I fill my days doing Vol work at the local library, have become a very good artist after some drawing classes and take lunch with my kids at school. Do a fair amount of yard work, but have had my auto Defibulator blow my socks off a few times when I pushed to much in the heat.

I see you are on AOL. Do you participate in the chats and message boards there? pretty active comunity there. Go to Channels / Better health / Message boards or Chats. You can find the heart info from there. E mail me if you have trouble.

You and the other take care

Steve Heart Attack ...What Next ?
http://members.aol.com/AMAmail/default.htm

brian kelly@modex.com Nov 01, 1998 5:32 pm

Hi my name is Brian, Iam 34 years old and had a MI on sept.2,1998. I crashed in the ER and had to have CPR done for three minutes and I was hit with the paddles 3 times. My blockage was in the LAD were after being air lifted to a hospital able to do the operation I had a stent put in.I was on a vent and a heart pump for 3 days.I still have some blockage in a small area that the are treating with medicine.Im am very scared of the future,I am on lots of medication plus anti anxiety and anti depressents.I have a beutiful wife and two girls 3 and 7.My EF is 25 after 2 weeks.they hope it gets to the mid to upper 30's.Im back to work part time but I cant keep my mind on the job.This is such an emotional head game.Any body else out there my age?I have never smoked and I am not a drinker,I was about 50 lbs over weight.I have severe heart diesease on both sides of my family.I would like any comments or suggestions on any of this. I live scared day today.

Mary Corbitt mcorbitt@rcipa.com Nov 13, 1998 4:20 pm

My husband Dan is 46 and just had an emergency angioplasty following an angiogram showing 99% + 60% blockage in the other two. Second hospitalization less than 2 weeks later due to further chest pain. He is a 28 yr diabetic and the complications from that, plus a family history of heart disease is overwhelming. Three young children: 9, 6, & 5 at home. Afraid of everything. Today while at Cardiac Rehab is BP went way up and they quickly pulled him off the machines. Now they are going to scale him back, after just getting started. He is very discouraged, depressed, it consumes his life with doc visits, fatigue, etc. Meanwhile, I am so busy working, kid-managing, worrying -- then I have someone look at me with this look of "poor Mary" and I am ready to scream. I feel that at the age of 39, my life has hit a huge wall and will never be the same again. I find myself envious of other people who are healthy and appear carefree. Don't know what to do? Trying to be patient and supportive of Dan, but at the same time, I want our lives to return to some normalcy. Thanks for listening.

Becky kelly@modex.com Nov 16, 1998 8:02 pm

-----Original Message----- From: KELLY To: mcorbitt@rcipa.com Date: Monday, November 16, 1998 9:43 PM Hi Mary, Everything you are going through sounds so familiar. My husband is the entry just above yours. My husband is only 34 and he had a heart attack a little over 2 months ago. He had the angioplasty and a stent put in. He still has some blockage. He has been in rehab for about 4 weeks. He is going through the depression also. He is so scared. We finally got him in to see a therapist and a psychiatrist and they put him on and anxiety and a antidepressant. They have helped immensely. He is doing much better. I still feel the same way as you do. I just want my family back to normal. We have two daughters, age 3 and 7. They don't understand why dad can't pick them up like he used to, or roughhouse with them like they loved so much. I also feel jealous sometimes and mad too. I see families going on vacations and doing things my family should be doing. Our lives have changed completely. We are consumed with heart disease. That's all we talk about any more. We've been back to the hospital 4 times. My husband wasn't sure if he was having angina each time. He's scared to death he's going to have another heart attack. None of his return visits turned out to be angina. Anxiety brought on a lot of his pains. Now we take it one day at a time. It has gotten better. Everyone says the depression he's going through is normal. It takes time. It was nice hearing from someone who knows how I feel. Becky Kelly

John M. Shaw jmshaw@netcom.ca Nov 18, 1998 11:39 am

Hello, My father just under went by-pass surgery and is getting frustrated. He is only three weeks out and is still having to take his nitro. Is it common to take nitro after and for how long? He ends up taking it the same time each day after supper. He also is experiencing 'hot flashes'. Is this also normal? If so, any remedies or ideas as to how long this lasts would be appreciated. One other question, how long after the operation did any of you feel better? concerned son John

Emily mleruth@aol.com Nov 25, 1998 8:58 am

My husband is 30 years old and just had his first angioplasty. With his overwhelming family history of heart disease, the doctor has made it clear that unless he makes serious lifestyle changes, it's only a matter of time before a heart attack. He had major blockage that they opened up with the angioplasty, but has more blockages that they must try to clear up with healthy living and medication. The problem is he smokes up to 2 packs a day and will still not quit. He is slowly improving his diet, but will not exercise. This is extremely frustrating to me - watching him smoke feels like I'm watching him commit suicide and can do nothing about it. Has anyone else dealt with a loved one who would not quite smoking after a heart procedure? I'd love to hear how you dealt with it (I am not a smoker and never have been). Thanks for reading!

Sandra Pederson Peders700@aol.com Dec 06, 1998 6:51 am

Husband just had an attack of CHF. Had not had one for 2 years. 78 years old. Lasix helps a lot. Other than ecg and blood work to rule out a heart attack, no other follow up tests were done. Are any needed? He had all the usual heart tests 6 months ago including echocardiogram. No changes. Worried Wife

Marcy Bachleda Marcia_Bachleda@portcement.org Dec 09, 1998 10:37 am

Can anyone give me a positive view of cardiac rehab. My friend needs to start, but is discouraged. He suffered an MI in July and the stress test lasted only 2 minutes. He is also suffering depression. Does anyone have a positive story about rehab and how long it took them to get into physical and mental stability. Thanks.

Carol Spencer Carol.Spencer@Westgroup.com Dec 21, 1998 10:18 am

My husband went in for double by-pass surgery Oct. 5,1998 it was an emergency surgery, since then my life feels like a roller coaster, some days I have good days and some days I really get depressed. I myself have a lung disease and I am on medication, and that medication makes me tired and it can also cause depression, after the 1st month that my husband was home, and he could start driving, he is gone all the time, at night he gets so tired out, is that good for him to be going all the time? We don't do that much ourselves and I am hurt by this but I don't quite know how to approach him about this without making him get upset. (Ourselves means together). Now with the Holidays approaching, I am not looking forward to it, we are spending the Holidays with all his family Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and I won't see my family until Jan. 2, 1999 but there isn't a thing I can do or say about this. His family feels the need to be with him both days and the heck with mine. Maybe I'm taking this too personal, it is something that has been bothering me, but it is like they won't be flexible so next year I don't even care what happens because it will be the same thing. If anyone has any suggestions pleas let me know. I am really having a bad day today. Thanks, Carol

TAGNER ANAT ZIV_AB@YAHOO.COM Dec 25, 1998 5:25 pm

HI. MY FATHER IS 55 YEARS OLD. 6 MONTHS AGO THE DOCTORS SAID HIS ONLY HOPE IS A HEART IMPLANTATION. IN THE PAST COUPLE OF WEEKS HIS CONDITION DETERIORATED, THE DOCTORS SAY THAT HE IS UNABLE TO WAIT FOR A DONOR. THEY SUGGESTED AN IMPLANTATION OF A "HEARTMATE" (LVAS. A METAL MADE HEART) AS A BRIDGE TO THE HUMAN HEART IMPLANT. WE NEED TO MAKE A DECISION WITHIN 24 HOURS. WE ARE LOOKING FOR ANY INFORMATION ABOUT THIS PROCEDURE, ANY CONNECTION TO DOCTORS, MEDICAL CENTERS, PATIENTS WHO HAVE UNDERGONE THIS PROCEDURE OR THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS. IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION PLEASE GET IN-TOUCH. THANKS AND GOOD HEALTH TO YOU ALL. ANAT

laura laurad@outtech.com Dec 28, 1998 6:44 pm

I'm looking for help for my Mom and Dad. Dad had an unexpected triple bypass a week ago is fine physically but anxiety ridden, scared and really emotional. They are the type of people who don't easisly talk about their feelings and I'm afraid they won't reach out. I'm sending the book out to Mom tomorrow and am considering getting her online too. Me and my brothers feel helpless becasue we cannot get Dad to choose joy and life over fear. Only he can do that.

George R Geo337@AOL.Com Dec 29, 1998 1:09 am

As I read some of the letters I was a little shocked at the ages of the people having problems like me. I am a 46 year old male who had a quad-by-pass July 29 ,98. I was having pains in both arms after walking and climbing stairs, or doing little work, such as mowing the lawn or raking, or other small jobs. My doctor sent me in for a stress test, they started the test about 10:00AM with-in 3hours I had an angy-gram, and was off to the operating room, bing, bang, boom!!!! Four blocked arteries, two at 100% and two at 95%, Yes somewhere there was an angel watching over me. We just celebrated a Very Merry Christmas and looking for a healthier New Year. The healing process is coming along at my pace. I had a lot of help from my wife she has been strong from the start, always there telling me what I need to hear. Just like all the stories I've read, your partner is there next to you, with each step you take to getting better. My next big step is going back to work. My job is a welder is a steel mill. That has me a little concerned, if I can go back and do my job at full tilt, or am I going back to soon. In closing I want to wish you a New Health and New Year. Keep The Faith

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