Hi from frozen MN! I just had OHS for mitral valve replacement and tricuspid repair in October and doing fine. 56F. Couple things!
I practiced lots of breathing and meditation techniques well before surgery (as the pre surgery book they gave me recommended). That was smart because they were already automatic and easy to do when I needed them.
I made myself a playlist to listen to including one “sob song” as sometimes I just need that release of crying. I also listened to a lot of podcasts in hospital for distraction with low effort.
You might surprise yourself how you react. The first time I had surgery I had this wave of inexplicable calm and assurance wash over me as I went into the OR (Before the drugs lol). Afterwards I was exhilarated to be alive, feeling of gratitude that persisted for a long time. The depth of both reactions surprised me, they just happened they were not things I manufactured. So even if you have some (understandable) medical anxiety you may do better than you expect.
Northwestern is a kick-ass heart hospital so you will be in good hands. There will be very sucky parts but ultimately it’s great that folks like us get to live.
wishing you the best!
I practiced lots of breathing and meditation techniques well before surgery (as the pre surgery book they gave me recommended). That was smart because they were already automatic and easy to do when I needed them.
I made myself a playlist to listen to including one “sob song” as sometimes I just need that release of crying. I also listened to a lot of podcasts in hospital for distraction with low effort.
You might surprise yourself how you react. The first time I had surgery I had this wave of inexplicable calm and assurance wash over me as I went into the OR (Before the drugs lol). Afterwards I was exhilarated to be alive, feeling of gratitude that persisted for a long time. The depth of both reactions surprised me, they just happened they were not things I manufactured. So even if you have some (understandable) medical anxiety you may do better than you expect.
Northwestern is a kick-ass heart hospital so you will be in good hands. There will be very sucky parts but ultimately it’s great that folks like us get to live.
wishing you the best!
