Well, now, I've been reading a book a dear friend of the family gave to me following my surgery. It's titled "Dr. Dean Ornish's Program for Reversing Heart Disease" and it's quite eye-opening. Not only is the man intelligent and a cardiologist, he incorporates all aspects of dis-ease in the process of reversal, including those spiritual and emotional aspects. In other words, his program is not just about the medical and physiological aspects of heart disease.
So far, I've learned quite a bit and more has been validated for me in reading just the first few chapters of his book. He writes in terms even a lay person can understand, and he has a great sense of humor, as well. The book is laid out well, and also has many recipes (plant-based & healthy) in the back of the book for easy access. I would recommend this book to anyone who is genetically inclined toward CAD (coronary artery disease) or who has been diagnosed with hypertension or hypercholesterolemia.
It is going on the 10th day post-op for me and I've been re-evaluating my Life each and every day. There is not much else to do, except read or watch television, actually, so taking the time to be more introspective has actually been a blessing for me. I've talked with my sister a little about this, as well. My Mom & my baby sister, Lisa, came down to help me out after surgery. One can count on family to help out in times of crisis ... and that is all one can count on. Thank God I have family who is willing to help. When Lisa leaves, I will be alone again during the days, but I will manage. One thing I know for sure is that I am a strong woman and I am roaring as I type :)
I'm not going to write much today, even though I haven't posted for a while now. I have a doctor's appointment today, which my sister will bring me to. (Not sure when they'll let me drive again, but hopefully soon!) I have some major changes in my Life I'm considering now ... especially in my Spiritual Life. These will be considered and discussed at a later date. Currently, I'm focused on healing and will discuss health issues with my PCP today when I see him. Just resting, healing, and getting stronger every day.
Okay, so I was a little out of it yesterday what with being short of breath and tachycardic post op, so I didn't have the energy to blog on Post Op Day II. My cardiologist changed my medications to decrease my heart rate and to flush the fluid out of my body (gained 10 lbs of fluid in one day post op!) ... he's the best cardiologist around. Met my surgeon's partner ... he talked to his cell phone most of the time ... talk about bedside manner ... lmao!
But now I'm on the flip side and I'm feeling better and stronger each day. Just want to keep moving forward ... I would now be an awesome cardiac nurse since I've been there, done that! Who could deny that fact? You really tend to learn a lot about cardiology when you're the patient :) So yesterday I was scared to death when my cardiologist ordered STAT tests: echo doppler, ABG's, etc. I was mortified and behaved in such a way that was conducive to FEAR! LOL But I'm sure I'm forgiven ... it would be best if docs would 'splain things first and then order STAT tests.
I've been told he coddles his heart patients ... and I'm beginning to see that. He's a fabulous physician and he knows his stuff. He's been my doctor for 8 years ... and that is precisely why I came to Bethesda rather than Delray. He no longer goes to Delray ... only Bethesda and JFK, but naturally prefers Bethesda. Who wouldn't?
Well, I'm about spent now. Hope you all have sunshiny days!!
Peace, Love, and Blessings
Kathi xoxo
