Still Healing. . . much less pain overall, the sternum is still healing, most days I reach a point where the muscles in my chest just ache. .
Still working on Therapeutic levels in the blood. . . Made my first drive to the cardiologists coumadin clinic this past week (post home care). . the level was "pretty close". . . just a minor adjustment in dosage, then back next week for a recheck and a visit with the Nurse practitioner and a stress test.
Speaking of stress test. . .
Still walking. . . almost every day. 3 miles! I missed a day this week because i just felt weak. . . My energy levels come in waves it seems. . .its pretty typical of anyone after major surgery. It is still the most amazing feeling . . this whole experience of getting to be more physically active than I have in years!. . I always walk with the ipod. . its become such a rich time of prayer and worship. .Every day I walk farther, or the inclines seem easier, or the pace is faster. . . I'm so amazed! so grateful! I almost am always weeping by the time I turn the corner and head home.
Still pacing. . . back into 'normal' life. . The first Sunday back to preaching was just about the most amazing blessing ever. . . it was also the longest stretch of activity that I've experienced since the surgery. . up at 6 am, preached 2 services, lots of (very gentle) hugging, Lunch with people I love, a walmart stop and home by 2 pm. . WIPED OUT. . pain meds, jammies on by 3!
I've been surprised at the challenge of just "thinking" - staying concentrated for the work of sermon prep, study, meeting prep, scheduling etc. Those brain cells have been focusing on other things for a while! I drove a few times this past week, short distances and always with the pillow belted in. . certain turns or instances are still a bit painful but its getting easier each time. Hope to take on some longer drives next week. Still will not be able to lift over 5 pounds for over another month!. . . thats even more challenging as the pain lessens. . I find myself reaching for things all the time!
Still in AWE! . . . God is so faithful!
Friday, September 12, 2008
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
"Touch Base" tuesday
Just touching base - The day to day progess would certainly seem boring or mundane to most but we are celebrating miracles daily! Little things - like standing up straight with diminishing pain, less coughing, higher oxygen levels, therapeutic coumadin levels. The stamina and energy to enjoy all day, every day with rarely a nap is a reality I havent experienced in a long, long time. My first trip to a grocery store in over a month was surreal! I took a daughter with me - to drive and lift - but it was just exciting to be "out"! We were there almost two hours and I was a bit wiped out. . but it is indeed a milestone and another step towards full recovery.
I'm learning that there will continue to be "issues" but not necessarily "setbacks". Over the weekend I experienced some fluid retention and swelling in feet and hands. This required an adjustment in the diuretic dosage. Many of these are common following any surgery - but increased issues in Heart surgery. I'm assured that all of these "issues" are still short term and just part of the journey.
In some way I'm still reminded every day of the fact that it will take some time for the sternum to fully fuse. Coughing, sneezing, change of positions all serve as reminders that I'm 'not there yet'! I did try to drive too far too soon and experienced quite a bit of pain as a result. We dont realize how many muscles we use to do the simplest of things.
One interesting piece of heart valve trivia is the challenge of finding a good vitamin/mineral supplement that doesnt contain vitamin K. I did find one brand name but it didnt include a lot of other things that I need - especially in trying to nurture some "richer" blood. Well some research on the Net revealed a great supplement created by someone with the same needs- its called CLOTAMIN. (of Course!) Ongoing challenges for life will be sources of Vitamin K - even in "healthy" sources - broccoli, spinach, dark greens, cauliflower, and avocados. These really are some of my favorites - but eating these challenge the ability to keep meds at therapeutic levels.
Today was another milestone in the journey as I had my last Home Care visit. I'll now make at least weekly trips to the doctors office to monitor Coumadin level (at least until I'm approved for the home monitor in 90 days).
5 weeks ago I was weak, fatiqued, and short of breath walking from the car to the door. I'm now walking 2.5 miles every day and increasing distance, speed, and stamina every day. Its the most amazing feeling!
I received my valve implant ID card in the mail today from St. Jude Medical. Another fascinating point is the sound and clicking of the mechanical valve. The
straighter I stand the louder it is. Not everyone can hear it but some can hear it very clearly, and some are very creeped out by it! Mostly I think its the most wonderful sound ever - because it means new and extended life - however, in the moments of trying to sleep it can be quite the distraction! We've had some laughs wondering if my clip on microphone at church will pick up the clicking sound through the sound system. . If so, we'll have to make sure that all hymns are played in rhythm to a pulse rate of 68-72!
This Sunday 9/7 I will return to preaching and worship. It was my goal when I first met with the surgeon. I've missed the experience of worship but have experienced the body of Christ, the church in a most beautiful way. I am so excited to be in the midst of these I love, who have loved in such generous ways. The last time I was there we shared communion - it was so emotional for me. I love them so much! This Sunday will be a re- gathering around a meal of grace! I'm suspecting that potentially the "sermon" will just be me standing there crying tears of grace and gratitude!
So much to give thanks for today! God's grace is so generous, so extravagant!
I'm learning that there will continue to be "issues" but not necessarily "setbacks". Over the weekend I experienced some fluid retention and swelling in feet and hands. This required an adjustment in the diuretic dosage. Many of these are common following any surgery - but increased issues in Heart surgery. I'm assured that all of these "issues" are still short term and just part of the journey.
In some way I'm still reminded every day of the fact that it will take some time for the sternum to fully fuse. Coughing, sneezing, change of positions all serve as reminders that I'm 'not there yet'! I did try to drive too far too soon and experienced quite a bit of pain as a result. We dont realize how many muscles we use to do the simplest of things.
One interesting piece of heart valve trivia is the challenge of finding a good vitamin/mineral supplement that doesnt contain vitamin K. I did find one brand name but it didnt include a lot of other things that I need - especially in trying to nurture some "richer" blood. Well some research on the Net revealed a great supplement created by someone with the same needs- its called CLOTAMIN. (of Course!) Ongoing challenges for life will be sources of Vitamin K - even in "healthy" sources - broccoli, spinach, dark greens, cauliflower, and avocados. These really are some of my favorites - but eating these challenge the ability to keep meds at therapeutic levels.
Today was another milestone in the journey as I had my last Home Care visit. I'll now make at least weekly trips to the doctors office to monitor Coumadin level (at least until I'm approved for the home monitor in 90 days).
5 weeks ago I was weak, fatiqued, and short of breath walking from the car to the door. I'm now walking 2.5 miles every day and increasing distance, speed, and stamina every day. Its the most amazing feeling!
I received my valve implant ID card in the mail today from St. Jude Medical. Another fascinating point is the sound and clicking of the mechanical valve. The
straighter I stand the louder it is. Not everyone can hear it but some can hear it very clearly, and some are very creeped out by it! Mostly I think its the most wonderful sound ever - because it means new and extended life - however, in the moments of trying to sleep it can be quite the distraction! We've had some laughs wondering if my clip on microphone at church will pick up the clicking sound through the sound system. . If so, we'll have to make sure that all hymns are played in rhythm to a pulse rate of 68-72!
This Sunday 9/7 I will return to preaching and worship. It was my goal when I first met with the surgeon. I've missed the experience of worship but have experienced the body of Christ, the church in a most beautiful way. I am so excited to be in the midst of these I love, who have loved in such generous ways. The last time I was there we shared communion - it was so emotional for me. I love them so much! This Sunday will be a re- gathering around a meal of grace! I'm suspecting that potentially the "sermon" will just be me standing there crying tears of grace and gratitude!
So much to give thanks for today! God's grace is so generous, so extravagant!
Have you ever come on anything quite like this extravagant generosity of God, this deep, deep wisdom? It's way over our heads. We'll never figure it out. Is there anyone around who can explain God? Anyone smart enough to tell him what to do? Anyone who has done him such a huge favor that God has to ask his advice? Everything comes from him; Everything happens through him; Everything ends up in him. Always glory! Always praise! Yes. Yes. Yes. Romans 11:33
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