Thanks for all the good wishes. Following up on my thread.

[toddwv]

Last edited Sat Mar 28, 2015, 02:26 AM - Edit history (1)

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10026219442

I went to the hospital for the final phase of LVAD evaluation. They made a date for placement. I ended up coding (heart stopping) and was defibbed by paddles. I have an ICD (defib/pacemaker), but it wasn't good enough to bring me back. I made it through that and they decided to place the LVAD immediately.

So here I am, a cyborg with a little device helping my heart pump.



It's weird having a power cable coming out of my abdomen, and I still haven't regained enough strength to consider myself independent, but I'm alive and awaiting a heart transplant.

It's been a difficult road... LVAD placement required the sternum to be cut and laying in the hospital for 3 weeks with 2 weeks of rehab afterwards is not fun. I still have issues with arrhythmias and tachycardias but they changed my medication after I nearly passed out and got defibbed by my implanted device so those are now considerably less frequent.

I realize that the hardships aren't over, but I am happy to be alive even if life once again requires a fair amount of effort on a daily basis.

I would like to thank everyone for their well wishes.

Thanks,
Todd

[liberal_at_heart]

1. oh, my goodness. Sending you good vibes and wishes.

[marym625]

2. Oh my goodness!

So glad you made it through that OK. Sending positive thoughts your way.

Take care of yourself!

[CaliforniaPeggy]

3. Wow, what a journey you're on!

I wish you all the best.

I hope your heart transplant arrives very soon and that you will thrive.

Talk to us when you can!

And thank you for the great diagram--that really brings it home and helps us realize what you're going through.

[haikugal]

4. Hi Todwv...

Glad to hear you're kicking. I didn't see your first post but thought I'd chime in. I've spent some time in the hospital and rehab so I understand the mixture of gratitude and irritation/impatience that arises from such extended stays. I hope you have family and friends that visit and keep you up to date...you evidently have computer access so that's really good.

Keep on keeping on friend, it sure beats the hell out of the alternative and it really does get easier.

Good luck to you and keep us posted.

[peace13]

5. My best to you!

You don't sound like a cyborg to me. You sound like a strong determined human being who knows what it is to be alive. I send you peace, love and healing energy! Keep up the good work! You are amazing! Peace, Kim

[irisblue]

6. wow, better days for you soon

[gwheezie]

7. I wish you the best

Your ordeal should spur some of us who have been meaning to sign a donor card to do it right away.

[Cha]

8. Best Wishes to you, Todd.. to keep on keeping.. in a healthy way!

[mfcorey1]

9. Good wishes and healing to you!

[BlancheSplanchnik]

10. hey, toddwv...i have a friend who has an LVAD.

She's doing well, now.

Sending you my most wellest wishes !!!

[No Vested Interest]

11. May all be well for you.

It sounds as though you have a good attitude towards all you are going through, seeing the long-range picture and keeping the problems in perspective.

Will keep you in my thoughts.

[progressoid]

12. Great to hear from you again.

We're all pulling for you.

[pnwmom]

13. May the force be with you! Glad you're getting the help you needed. n/t

[toddwv]

14. Thanks again everyone.

I have a very flexible personality and have been able to adapt to the significant life changes. I have to admit though, that my confidence is a bit shaken right now as I get used to the LVAD and the new meds.

Honestly, I couldn't have made it this far without my family. They have been so supportive that words simply can't express my gratitude.

Thanks,
Todd

[niyad]

15. sending good vibes and best wishes for continued recovery.

[fizzgig]

16. my best to you for a quick and smooth recovery