Quote:
Originally Posted by PSM
I'm not worried about the surgery but the recovery period. I'm still in pretty good shape, but the Tucson hospital is quite aways from our house. Is my wife going to have to take the travel trailer up there or get a motel room? And once I'm home, how much of a burden will I be on her if any?
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Metallic or porcine valve? Your wife may be able to live in your room most of the time. But she will need a break from all the noise, activity, and stress.
Write down your questions - and write down the answers. Best have a witness with you, as you will misinterpret the answers - I guarantee you!
It kinda depends on what kind of shape you're in now - like, can you, physically, go up some stairs vs can you even get up off of a couch. That said, baring complications, plan on between 2-5 days in hospital post op. You will need to make frequent visits back to the doc/surgeon/hospital. Demand physical rehab and cardiac rehab. And do it!!!
As for a burden at home - if you cannot get out of bed w/o assistance, you will need a potty chair and a regular chair close by. You may need to arrange for a home nurse to assist the wife. This could be 24-7 to just every other day. Depends on your needs.
In a couple of weeks, you need to start cardiac rehab. Both of you! Be sure to do the psych and dietary sessions. Stick with it ( and hopefully you'll still be here in another ten!)