this time last year......

Its been almost a year (May 17th, 2011) when my life changed, went to the ER to find out I had congestive heart failure, 39 years old at the time with two boys 7 and 4 years old. Had to where a life vest for 90 days then on August 23rd, 2011.... got the pacemaker/ICD. Been a very tough time the past year. The Meds have me constantly tired. Been reading some of the msg's people have put on this board and I guess it has made me feel not so alone.... Just wanted to say hello everyone

6 Comments

Hello and Welcome

by TalkinCardio - 2012-04-24 03:04:11

This is a great support site and if you have any questions or concerns, we are here for you. I had the same experience when I joined. It's really helpful to read about other people going through the exact same experience you are. Cathy

Hi Captain:)

by Pookie - 2012-04-24 04:04:29

Glad you stumbled across this awesome group.

You're 100% correct - you are not alone. Going thru any type of heart surgery is life changing for most. And the medications that some of us are put on are infamous for making us profoundly tired...ugh.

But thank goodness for technology as our little "buddies" are helping our hearts work a bit better.

Like Cathy said: it is really helpful to read about what others are going thru because really - no one is ever alone.

Welcome to the club and please don't hesitate if you have any questions, we're here to help:)

Take care,
Pookie

hello

by dwelch - 2012-04-24 05:04:50


No worries. I got my first pacer at 19. I am near the end of number 3 at 44 years old. And am still in the young category for pacer patients, as are you. I have a daughter myself. Keep on truckin' find and stick with a good doc and trust the devices, they will let you see your kids grow up.

celebrate life

by Hope - 2012-04-24 10:04:02

Hi! Think I read between the lines the pain and frustration of uncertainty of life and the ability to provide for and enjoy your young family. You and your family will adjust and grow in new ways. Pace yourself. Do what you can cheerfully and willingly. It is only your first year. Hope you choose for you and your family to celebrate iife to mark your anniversary. Wishing you many happy years! Hopeful Heart

Gets better

by Cheryl B - 2012-04-24 11:04:30

I had the same thing happen to me November 2010. Went to my primary care doctor for a stomache and came home two weeks later with 7 different pills and an ICD. Wasn't really sick before either. Just took a thyroid pill for 24 years. I didn't even use aspirin. I have CHF, too, and that's not a happy place to be either, I know. I know some of my meds make me tired. Like right now writing this I just want to go lay down!!! But I walk my dog at least two miles a day. I ride a motorcycle, and I can't wait for summertime to get here so I can get outside. I guess what I'm saying is just keep moving forward. The first year is the hardest. It does get better and you really learn to adjust. Make sure your docs know about your fatigue. Maybe there's another medicine you can take. I know they turned my ICD up a little when I complained I was moving so slow it felt like. This is a good site to share your concerns. We've all been there, and some a little more than others. I have found so much help here. Keep coming back. and welcome.
Cheryl B.

Hi Captain

by Joshnoa - 2012-05-24 04:05:03

Went through the same thing you did in about the same time frame. Even wore the vest for two months. EF was at 15% and had a BIV-ICD implanted.
I have 12 year old twins and was very active with the Boy Scouts - camping and hiking at altitude.
One year later, me and my boys are going on a backpacking trip up in the Sierras up to 14k elevation. My EP said "Live your life and don't let your condition stop you." I just take things a little slower.
I probably had the same fears/concerns you had, I want to be their for my kids. I'm making the most with what GOD gave me and spending as much quality time as possible with my kids.

Your are not alone,
Ron

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