By Harvey Steron
Back in 1990, at what turned out to be the end of my being invincible days, my doctor said that I should talk to a cardiologist about what I thought was general malaise. One stress test and overnight stay at Rochester General Hospital, and there I was, being prepped for a triple bypass procedure. What an awakening!
But I survived it, and after a week went home.
My wife and I worked hard on my rehabbing by walking, walking, walking. And 22 days after the surgery I was able to go back to work part time. Fortunately, I had a desk job and was able to work half-days for about a week. I believe that the one thing that did the most for me to really get myself together again was cardiac rehab. I was very apprehensive at first, but I really grew to love those three days a week at Strong Memorial Hospital’s cardiac rehab facility. Those nurses are very special angels, and they helped me to learn a lot about my body and how to take care of it. I can’t recommend that program enough.
I had a Mended Hearts visit while at RGH and even got a phone call to come to a meeting. I really liked my hospital visit and what I heard and saw at Mended Hearts meetings; so at the end of 1991 I became an accredited visitor. I’m in my 18th year of visiting and have 10 years of experience as visiting chairman.
My next ten years were uneventful cardiac-wise, until my first myocardial infarction in 2001. That required a new mitral valve (yep, open heart again); and then the rehab regimen again. Somehow, I’ve had time for four angioplasties and six stents, and another M.I. too.
So, that’s my Mended Hearts story, a pretty good one, thanks to Mended Hearts and a very supportive caregiver, my wife Cheri.
I really get comfort and promise and hope for the little baby born to my Nephew 6 days ago. He was diagnosed with a much smaller left chamber to his heart. (Shones syndrome) and has had surgery on Monday. Although he came out of surgery with positive prognosis, we have living through the roller coaster ups and down since 5:00pm yesterday. He is in PICU at Vanderbuilt. My nephew (Justin Wohlford and his wife Meg) are 1st time parents. Could anyone visit him and encourage him? He is trying to stay strong. The baby is fighting the good fight. Thanks for connecting them to something positive!!!