Seventeen Months After Open Heart Surgery

I am at the point were at times I forget about my surgery!  But yesterday I visited my cousin George after his knee replacement surgery!  The memories flashed back!  The day after major surgery!  Wires all over your body, new medicines, & the lovely smell of hospitals!

George was doing what we all do after a major surgery - just trying to get through to the next day!  He are some things that my visit to George reminded me for all you patients our there!

1 - Be Your Own Self Advocate!
Ask questions!  If you do not understand something ask the nurse or doctors.  Understand what they are doing & how you body is reacting!  The ONLY person that know how you feel is you!

2 - Keep Good Notes!
Write down your questions (you may forget).  Keep track of your progress, your meds, your therapy.  This will not only be a benefit to you, but it will impress (or scare) your doctor!

3 - Heal the Mental Hurt Too!
Along with the physical healing, the mental healing is CRITICAL!  You need to stay positive, keep the fight, & talk to people about how you feel!  THIS IS HARD FOR MEN!  We get a little goofy talking about our feelings!

4 - Have a plan!
While you are laid up have a project!  Read a book!  Watch a movie!  Listen to some music from the "OLD" days!  Now that you have the time, use the time wisely!

GET BETTER GEORGE!!!!!!