Posted by Pati on March 16, 2003 at 21:53:14:
In Reply to: Re: Maze and getting closer and I am nervous posted by Carl Plaskett on March 15, 2003 at 09:40:28:
OK, here's from the horse's mouth. Even knowing I would go through such aweful complications, I wouldn't change anything. I've been out of the hospital 10 days now and am walking 30-40 minutes daily at a very rapid pace, up and down hills. I've been working from home (computer, paperwork stuff) on and off every day since the first week post maze (1/30/03). Last week, I went in for about 5 hours each on two days. Next week I'm going to do that every day, plus working some from home. The week after (about 8 weeks post maze) I'm going full time. I manage a busy law office so my job is mentally demanding. I still get a bit more tired than I did but this past week my heart has been rock steady.
Prayer is what helped me manage my pre-op concern. It really works. It helped me that I set up a web page at status.com where my support group sent prayers, well-wishes and messages. I felt overwhelmed with the love and prayers coming my way. With Him on my side, how could I worry?
Oh, yeah. I don't have any chest pain (sternum) and I had the full opening. My scar is about 9-10" (you should see the tiny little scar Dr. McCarthy did--it's great). The pain wasn't at all bad. Certainly not what I thought it would be!
About a local consult, I told Dr. McCarthy that my local EP wasn't very knowledgable about the maze and Dr. McCarthy sent him his 300 page manuscript the day after my surgery. I think that made a big difference in his willingness to consult.
Good luck Jim. I'll be praying for you!
- Re: Maze and getting closer and I am nervous Carl Plaskett 22:26:25 3/16/2003 (0)