My surgery was a success...

[Ray Norsworthy]

obviously or I wouldn't be posting this! Ha. The surgeon had to do a full sternotomy because years ago I had a lipoma removed from my sternum & it left a hole. When I woke up I joked about ordering a pizza. A few hours later I walked all the way down the hall & back. From surgeon on down to the aids, they all said it was the fastest recovery they'd ever seen (I wonder if they tell a lot of people this). So fast, in fact, they decided if there were no complications I would get out on Wed., the 3rd day after surgery! But naturally there were complications. On Wed. morning I went into atrial fib with an elevated heart rate. Made me as sick as I've ever been in my life, I think. They gave me a shock treatment & when I didn't respond within 2 days they gave me another. That time it did the trick. I went back into sinus rhythm & stayed there, thank goodness. I've been back home for 3 days now & I can walk about a mile before I get tired. I also putter around the yard & house. I'm feeling great, much better than expected.

I owe you guys an apology for not posting that day before the surgery, but man, was I discombobulated. Not from fear, but nervousness (there is a difference). This site helped me enormously & I hope to repay some of the kindness directed at me. If you have any questions, I'd be happy to answer them.

 

[Ray Norsworthy]

A special word of thanks to my Okie buddy, Mentu!

 

[Mentu]

Ray, it sounds as though you are doing super well. Best of all, it is good to hear that you are feeling good. Have you had the pizza yet?

Larry

 

[Jkm7]

Good to hear from you, Ray, and how well you are doing.

Good work. Wishing you continued great recovery.

 

[epstns]

Ray - Welcome back! Glad to hear you're doing so well. Of course, now we expect you to keep it up and get the recovery all over with really fast!

 

[Freddie]

Welcome home Ray, remember your still in recovery, although it doesn't sound like it :smile2: Be good to yourself and try not to do too too much.

 

[skeptic49]

Congratulations, Ray...keep up the good recovery!

Best wishes,

Jim

 

[Cooker]

Welcome to this side!! Keep up the good recovery:thumbup:

 

[neil]

hey welcome to the other side, brill news

 

[Ray Norsworthy]

My friends, it does feel wonderful to have it done. No more dreading, just a renewed determination to make sure I don't wind up back in the hospital. I saw the surgeon today & he can't believe my progress. I must admit, I'm a little surprised, too. I knew I was in good shape, but with my size & age I thought it would be more of a challenge. I'll be posting little tidbits here & there as the days go by. Right now I'm only spending a half-hour in front of the computer. The biggest challenge is just restraining myself, but I can & will do it.

 

[Optimus]

Hi Ray, I am new here, but I do believe that you are the person I read about when I first found the site...your surgery date got pushed back?? Due to a blood count issue?? If that is you, I am so glad to hear that you are through the surgery, I thought about you alot. I had mine on the 3rd of Aug....doing very well too, will write my story soon. Take care and hang in there, I know I am.

Peace,

Susan.