My wonderful DH had a heart attach this afternoon.
Surgery is tomorrow.
He has already had quintuple by-passes and a stent (15 yrs ago, before I knew him so he was only about 46 then?)
Prayers appreciated.
Just got home. So going to bed.
Sending fervent prayers your way! Hope all goes well!
Kathy
Sending you both love and healing.... so, so sorry you're dealing with this. :(
We'll be thinking of you and hoping for the best!!!!
((((((hugs)))))))
Dearest QD,
My heart and love are with you, now more than ever.
Prayers going to you now.....as well.
I hope the healing balm of sleep comes to you tonight......
And that the morning brings relief from worry, pain and fear, for all of you.
Hugs, Elaine
Good thoughts to you and your husband. I hope all goes well.
Praying for you and your husband and for the doctors and nurses caring for him too. I hope you will be wrapped in a feeling of comfort and peace.
Take care.
Deb
Prayers, love, comfort, hugs & positive thoughts are wending your way.
I will be keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Prayers for you, your husband and his doctors.
Prayers said. Please keep us posted when you are able.
Prayers sent.
Sending prayers and strength!
Prayers for you and your husband.
Sending prayers, positive thoughts and healing vibes your way for you and your husband. Keep us posted.
Hugs.
Kim
QD, I hope your husband is getting the treatment he needs today. I will be thinking of you both, and remembering you in my prayers.
Kathyx
All the best for you and your husband. I hope the surgery went well for your husband today.
Quietdynamics, so sorry to hear about your husband's health. Many thoughts and prayers coming your way!
Thank you so much for prayers and strength.
Got ready this morning at 7:30 and arrived home about 12 hrs later..
On drive up GPS kept saying "it" did not know where it was.. huh?? Not now, today!
And why is there all this traffic on the highway.. aren't all these people going to be late for work? LOL
DH is doing great.
Cardiologist is wonderful and will doing follow-up.. Welcome new Doctor. Good solid handshake.
I was more worried about the older surgical work, condition etc. Old stent is Teflon, new second one is plastic (lasts longer). Blocked arteries that could be cleared were.
In truth I was too exhausted to focus while talking to Dr. DH was scheduled for 11:14, he was taken down at noon and he was bumped a few times .. so Dr. was not finished until around 4PM.
Looking at the time was beyond stressful.. but, you know that.
So we will ask our question during follow up appt. Apparently we need some clarification on an artery procedure that was done in 2011 (thought it was to help with neuorpathy.. but, cardiologist was referring to it and giving it more weight.)
I did draw an erasable red heart on his chest with a ~ happy face~ inside it.
Not realizing Dr. would go through groin. Duh.
DH and rest of team got a giggle. Break the stress for DH.
So DH will be released tomorrow. They did not give me a time.
Learned the symptoms had presented 5 days previous.
Not classical symptoms of arm pain/ ache or jaw.
So very fortunate he was with a group of people (golfers who used a cart to get back to the club house and call for help)
We are also fortunate that this time unlike in 2011, my Sjogrens is much better managed.
In 2011.. that was supposed to be an outpatient procedure. There was a bad storm, highways flooded out and roads closed. Surgery was more complicated and they kept DH .. and I could barely drive to make it home .. took hours and I wanted to burst into tears. Driving down roads only to then find them closed and have to backtrack, no idea where I was.
Well I made it.
So DH and I this time have been very blessed.
Thank you again.. that wishing well to someone you do not know .. brings "the light and joy to your soul".
(all typos and mistakes are mine.. tired)
So glad to hear a favorable report. Take care,
Genko
Praying for you and your dear husband. I am glad to read good news. I am so happy that things went better this time for both of you. I felt so sad just reading about the last time, and you trying to get back home just to have to keep back tracking. Bless your heart.
Hugs and continued prayers,
susanep :)
Instead of dashing out to hospital.
Called for status, estimated time of release.
Had a good sleep and can breath.
On the unspoken level between DH and I, was the specter of opening sternum again.
Perhaps we should have simply asked. But, think DH .. if more work needed to be done just wanted to knocked out, without the worry (as in his case not necessary and staff was monitoring insulin, etc.)
So he still will not be firing on all 'cylinders" (guy speak).. but, he was on a lot less than 50% before.. so much better. Guess he will build up to practicing his putt. And I have been wanting to take walks along the river, take photos (he has taken classes).. have 'we' time. A picnic there would be lovely and we have yet to do that.
The tug will be his motorcycle, because it weighs a ton. He is resigned that he is on the sideline this season.
What a blessing I got new treatment protocol and better able to help. Maybe crash a bit tomorrow.
After years twists and turns.. life.
Hospital is huge.. so I got to realize that I need to work on more walking and stamina.
Thank you everyone for encouragement.
Payers right now! Dear Lord have mercy upon us. Please stay close to QD husband as he goes through surgery to fix his heart. She loves him so dearly and he is needed in her life. Give them both peace and healing that they need, Forever we love you God and we know you will never ever leave them...In Jesus name, Amen!
This is my prayer of faith that comes from the bottom of my heart. I know he does miracles.
Relieved to hear the good report. My prayers are still with you and with your husband. All positive thoughts are your way.
Nancy
Was waiting and waiting for call?
Got antsy and headed out.
They called when I was already on highway.. they were keeping him.
DH had a temp. So cultures, etc.
Then shortly after I got there they were taking him down for an echo-cardiogram.
(I went outside for fresh air, instead of waiting room) DH told me to go home to miss traffic.
So he was surprised when I in his room waiting when they brought him back.
Then nurse mentioned improvement in condition of his kidneys? (We are going to need those labs)
Hopefully information tomorrow.
Definitely during follow-up appt.
Told DH to take written list of questions.. lol.
Feeling wiped out.
Paid the parking fee and then forgot the ticket. I had the paper receipt fortunately.
Many prayers !
Bluebird
So far you and hubby have made it through in spite of some unexpected events.. Prayers are being said for recovery and strength for both of you. It is so hard being a patient and it is so hard being a spouse in poor health. Take care of yourself. Thankfully it is summer. Irish
I will pray for you too. God loves us through everything.
Dearest QD,
Home from hours on the road. Catching up on you and DH..thanks for all the info. and commentary.
Being the person IN the hospital is actually easier than being the person OUTSIDE. The traveling, parking, walking the halls.....the worry, the waiting..you described it so well.
So all was done with angioplasty and stents? So many things to balance, especially with diabetes. Sounds like DH had good care.
Now for the recovery......another entire issue, of course. The journey continues.......
Now also an entire group of family and friends are to be comforted and supported through all of this.
Sending love and strength.
Hugs, Elaine
Praying the surgery goes smoothly and the Lord Jesus will be with you both.
Drygirl
Sending all my love, and more prayers for both of you. All of us here are thinking about both of you. :)
Hugs,
susanep
Sending prayers ????????
Yeah.. got the all clear call just after 2PM and we arrived home around 6:00
DH is showered and relaxing. Whew.
Mentioned a Cardiac Rehab program to DH and he has already mentioned it to Cardiologist.
Learn some new skills.
Especially as in winter months we tank here in the north.
Dr. tweaked some of his meds on a trial basis. BP and diabetes.
We have labs from hospital.
His mother just turned 80 and lives almost 400 miles away.. so we did not tell her.
His brother is far and is a paraplegic .. so why stress more people.
Daughter is on the other coast.
Son helped us, he is local and relieved. Even then we referred to it as a 'cardio-event'
Neighbor has helped with granddaughter. So I only told people who could actually help.
And fellow Sjogrens, as we are used to medical 'adventures' and you have been wonderful.
I sat in my garden space to try to breath this morning and just get 'centered' so I could be there.
Last afternoon my ankles where swollen, even where my purse had been bouncing from walking felt bruised, some aches, way more driving than normal, well you know... a major push out of the zone. Think I will try to push myself a bit more, in an even manner on a daily basis?
We will learn the full extent of the 'event' at the follow-up appts.. plural.
Cardio, internist, Endo. (which is why I said DO NOT leave with out labs).
I did not play warrior .. just pulled up out front and let transport bring DH to the car.
Time to rest and pamper..
Thank you again, everyone.
Wishing you and yours the Best.
Good news indeed, QD. Good news indeed. Here's to happy, healthy days ahead for all of us.
Miracles are always possible. Irish
I am glad you have a positive outcome. You may want to consider going to cardiac rehab with him. My wife joined with me. It will be nice to go together again once my system gets back to what was my new normal.
Dearest QD,
A 'cardio-event' is a major life event, no doubt about it.
rest and pamper.......
Hugs, Elaine
Quiet - just now reading this thread - sorry to hear your husband had a heart attack, but glad the surgery went well and he is home now.
You seem to have handled everything well at a time when your world gets turned upside down so unexpectedly. At times like those, you do what you have to do.
It always seems that the "waiting" is the hardest part.
Of course you know, now that the surgery is over, that is only the first step - then comes many months of "getting back to normal" with therapy, doctor appointments for follow-up, etc. You've been down this road before. I hope this time things continue to go smoothly for both hubby and you. With time, you have learned what your limitations are as you deal not only with your Sjogren's, but also life events that happen with family, etc.
Just a suggestion - get a folder or big manila envelope and keep all the information pertaining to your hubby and this journey he is on all together and take it with you to all appointments. Of course, get any written papers you can to add to this folder. In this age of computers, tablets, etc., I still prefer to have an actual piece of paper in my hands to show the doctors - they might skip over something on the computer screen. Seeing it in black and white seems to help (at least it does for me).
Be kind to yourself and take some time for yourself too - it's not being selfish, you have to take care of yourself first before you can begin to help others. Even 10 minutes of sitting and doing nothing, or going for a quick walk or sitting out in the garden - just to refuel.
Best wishes to you both.
Hugs,
Bucky
Thank you again for all the support.
DH is happy to be home. Soccer on TV. We took two short walks. Second one I had to coax him.
Then he thanked me. ;) Just him being in bed for 4 days is zapping.
We will have a clear, better understanding at Cardiologist follow-up.
A number of medical terms were bantered about unexpectedly.
(I was thrown by visits from nephrologist (although due to one med DH takes a certain dye could not be used for a test and he has Diabetes. Kidneys were being flushed) Muscle compromise? Some arteries closed (beyond repair)?
Not like appts when we walk in prepared. Feel a semblance of control.
Cardiologist is very positive and says DH should be back on golf course soon.
We eat a healthy diet, DH is active, we have a good, sound mental attitude..
The rehab program is this one:
http://www.princetonhcs.org/phcs-home/what-we-do/university-medical-center-of-princeton-at-plainsboro/what-we-do/clinical-centers-for-care/center-for-cardiac--pulmonary-care/cardiac-rehabilitation.aspx
Except:
More than 450,000 Americans will suffer fatal heart attacks this year .. emergency angioplasty – a critical lifesaving procedure
Emergency angioplasty is a procedure to open clogged arteries in response to a heart attack. interventional cardiologists, emergency angioplasty quickly increases the flow of blood and oxygen through blocked arteries without the need for invasive heart surgery. By quickly locating and treating the site of the blockage, emergency angioplasty reduces the damage to heart muscle and helps the heart function better in the future.
Of course DH had been having symptoms for 5 days.
Started while away for his mother's 80th birthday.
He rode his motorcycle about 800 miles solo.
Then the question is: 3 procedures (1st opened sternum..) how many repairs are realistic.
Loathe to ask that one.
We have been blessed during this in so many ways.
DH with a group who knew he was in trouble.
I am on new treatment protocol and better able to be there.
New cardiologist.
And I have support of people who understand medical issues.
We are working on what to tell his mother .. probably more like his procedure in 2011, since she is familiar with that one.
And I will call daughter later today.
Granddaughter we told, he got dizzy on golf course. And being home "No wrestling" ;)
I know you have a lot ahead of you quietdynamics. When one is sick with a couple it's both working for recovery. You and your husband will remain in my prayers. I am glad he is getting the care he needs and you both are positive. Keep in touch when possible with your centering place.
susanep :)
I am glad that things are going better for both of you. I am hoping all of the upcoming appointments and procedures go well. Wishing you the very best.
Dh is doing exceptional.
He has already gone out with son to play golf w/ a cart.
He just left for driving range.
We had follow-up appt with Cardiologist; very informative.
I did not learn DH blood sugar was @ 450 at time of cardio event until night before.
I am sure emergency Drs. were juggling .. that is what I said to Cardiologist and his eyes lite up in agreement. Whew.
New med is BRILINTA: "used to lower your chance of having another heart attack or dying from a heart attack or stroke"
Right side of heart( muscle) is "compromised".
There is damage.
Go play golf and stay off motorcycle. DH is dashed about bike. So maybe around fall he can take some day trips with group he belongs.
Dr. was happy with DH overall physical condition, diet, exercise, stress coping mechanism/attitude ;)
Wrote script of Rehabilitation Program.
DH sugar levels are still higher than prior. But, things take time. Body really got whacked.
Picked-up car from golf course. Have to talk to DH about sending something over for staff?
Sjogrens/Fibro homefront.
After Cardiologist visit, my body went into crash mode, to be expected. Just a 'limp rag".
And estate stuff still going on.
Time and moments to re-evaluate.
So happy with progress with physical and mental abilities with Methodrexate during our normal routine. But, the "normal" routine has been a long adaptation based on my limitations.
Realized while DH was in hospital how much we operate as a team. More on him, as he always picks up the pieces when I falter.
I would like to be in a team place of better equilibrium.
I waited a few days.
And in a low tone asked; "Do you want to talk about what happened".
At first he said he was fine.. then slowly opened up.
Our current running joke.. is do not leave the home without kissing me goodbye!!
(.. remember what happened when you did. ~.~ )
He spoke to his mother, just that he had a procedure and new Cardiologist .. so we are moving forward.
Thank you everyone.
And wishing all .. "the best"
Whew, QD.......'moving right along'.
I'm sure one reason you are coping so well is that you have assembled a good medical team of your own and know that they are they, to get your back when needed. Yes, you crashed, but I doubt if you had the fear and frustration you were feeling two or three years ago.
For me that makes all the different in the world.
Yesterday I saw my Duke cardiologist. She didn't treat me for the 3 angioplasties and 2 stents I had 15.5 years ago, but I know she is there for me, that the entire Duke system is there for me, on call. I'm doing very very well, but honestly, I know it's just a matter of time. Of all the conditions I have the 'least disabling or even bothersome' is my heart condition....but it is the most dangerous and surely my 'exit visa'.
Unless I'm hit by a car (or some other unexpected accident) my coronary artery disease is the most serious condition I have, and I don't even notice it. I do take three meds and huge Omega 3 capsules twice a day, of course.
The luckiest thing for me is that I'm NOT diabetic. How I missed diabetes is beyond me, QD. just the 'luck of the draw' I imagine.
Anyway, your husband is fortunate to be part of your team, and to have a guy to do stuff with.....your son. Which is so ego boosting and restoring his sense of 'being a regular guy".
But he may have some 'rebound depression' QD. Heart 'events' really can shake you to the core, and usually do. The sense of order and control, so important, to men, is shattered.
Men do NOT do well lying on their backs with tubes, I've found.
Is he going to cardiac rehab? He may get some group support there, indirectly of course.
We all need rehab for life I think, and group support, direct and indirect.
I'm glad things are going well....
Hugs, Elaine
Hi again QD:
Very relevant article in Today's NYT:
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/21/health/saving-heart-attack-victims-stat.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&module=second-column-region®ion=top-news&WT.nav=top-news
Hugs, Elaine