I wanted to write a blog post about my experience and try to answer as many questions as possible, so it got really long. The longer version is after this post and here: https://patricklaverty.com/i-had-open-heart-surgery-long-version/
On Thursday, May 19, I got open-heart surgery. It was expected and scheduled. I got one heart valve replaced and one repaired. I was in the hospital for about five days after that and everything is going really well right now. The recovery process has been pretty smooth though definitely a lot harder than I anticipated. I’ve never been through something as big as this physically and the toll it takes energy-wise. I’m on home rest now for a couple weeks where my job is to basically take naps when needed, eat healthy, get a good night sleep and go for a bunch of 10 minute walks each day. And I’ll probably keep the Long Version updated as I go through the process.
OMG. Huge healing sent your way! And your long write-up is … stunning. It will be so useful to other folks who might be having the same surgery!
Hey Patrick! Keith remembered your blog, looked it up, and directed me to it. I’m so glad to hear that you’re healing well and reading the blog posts drives that point home beautifully and reassuringly. You and my husband should chat sometime – he had his heart attack on 3/28 and has gone through the gamut during his recovery (though he did not have to endure any open-heart procedures!). I think you guys might find that you have a lot in common regarding your experiences.