Traditional Muzzleloading Association

The Center of Camp => The Campfire => Topic started by: RonC on July 03, 2016, 08:17:56 PM

Title: A bump in the rooad of life
Post by: RonC on July 03, 2016, 08:17:56 PM
As some of you know, I went in for open heart surgery. I just received a new aortic valve on June 13 and one coronary artery was bypassed in 6 hours of surgery. The sternum was wired together and I was in one piece after about 42 staples. However, all did not go well when I was taken to intensive care. My pulse and heart rate plummeted to zero, the heart stopped, and they performed CPR and resuscitated me 20 chest compressions and drugs. Thankfully, that started my heart and I was put on a pace maker and tightly monitored for several days.
Valve work:
 (http://imageshack.com/a/img924/9838/sWMN7U.jpg)
My body responded to the surgery with a massive inflammatory response and my heart rate and blood pressure were labile and managed with an external pacemaker and drugs. Usually, a valve replacement patient is in intensive care for about 2 days. Because of the unstable nature of my heart function, I was kept for 5 days. Also, I retained fluids to the extent that I looked like the Michelin Man or the Pillsbury Doughboy.
Michelin Man
 (http://imageshack.com/a/img921/1296/41weMs.png)
My own heart took over pacing by June 15-16 and all was stable by June 18. The heart swelling went down enough that I could be moved into cardiac telemetry for 4 additional days. Each day has been an improvement.
From cardiac telemetry, I was moved to a rehab facility for 8 days where I could do cardiac therapy and physical therapy. I left for home on June 30.
The chest incision area only hurts when I cough, breathe or move. However, the physical and cardio therapy should aid in resolving that issue.

The health care staff has been fabulous! It is wonderful to be back! Now it is time to work hard toward a goal of normality.


Best Regards to All!
Ron
Title: Re: A bump in the rooad of life
Post by: Uncle Russ on July 03, 2016, 08:32:35 PM
My goodness! Welcome back Ron!
A really rough story, to say the least, but I am certainly happy to hear that you are on the mend.

Take care, listen closely to the Doc, and prayers going out for ya my friend.

Uncle Russ...
Title: Re: A bump in the rooad of life
Post by: Hank in WV on July 03, 2016, 10:11:43 PM
Wow!! After that story, I'm not even going to tell you about my blister. Glad you're home and feeling better. Best wishes for the rest of your recovery.
Title: Re: A bump in the rooad of life
Post by: One Shot on July 04, 2016, 03:18:40 AM
Welcome home and back. Good to hear that you are on the mend. Best wishes on a speedy recovery. Our prayers are with you.
Title: Re: A bump in the rooad of life
Post by: Two Steps on July 04, 2016, 07:55:04 AM
Welcome back Ron  :rt th
Title: Re: A bump in the rooad of life
Post by: RonC on July 04, 2016, 09:21:18 AM
I am thrilled to be back! There is improvement each day.
The cardiac rehab person is coming today and doesn't even take July 4th off. Ughh! :lol:
Thank you all!
Ron
Title: Re: A bump in the rooad of life
Post by: Riley/MN on July 05, 2016, 12:32:12 PM
Dang Ron! Prayers for quick & thorough healing!