I do understand sallywally. Mr C had lost a lot of weight in a very short period of time three years ago. No reason could be found and in passing a doctor asked how long the heart murmur had been there. What heart murmur was the response. An urgent echocardiogram followed plus BP tape and ECG. We were both shocked as Mr C seemed completely well. This was all during the first lockdown, although I wasn’t allowed to be with him for procedures or face to face appointments there were telephone consultations which I could be part of.
Three years later Mr C is on the surgery list at a centre of excellence in a city some miles from home. Although it brings logistical challenges which worry me the care is first class. Two day ward procedures confirm major deterioration of the valve, other than increased tiredness and some breathlessness on exertion Mr C feels well.
We were both shocked initially, Mr C has always been physically well, the GP surgery uncharted territory for him. He’s currently offended at being advised to take a daily statin and aspirin. Our daughter in law, as your son, has had a valve replacement, we saw her recover and have every belief Mr C will be the same.
There have been four consultant cardiologist appointments this year which have brought it sharply into focus. Next stop a surgeon. To be truthful we’d like surgery to happen sooner rather than later, Mr C is 80, however there are many people in his position. The hospital takes referrals from a huge area so we wait.
Does it worry us? Less than it did on diagnosis, the initial shock has settled, I guess we’re both used to the knowledge now. Day to day nothing has changed, we are out and about, see family, have a holiday booked with friends and another with family. Give yourself time for this to settle, sallywally, it will feel better. I well understand the initial shock which does pass. It’s helped us to realise although heart valve repair and replacement is huge to the individual it’s very routine to the surgeons.