EdSue

EdSue
Happy Birthday to me

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Ben Franklin Honor Society

On November 11, 2011, Sue & I traveled to Miami Beach where we attended an induction event of the Ben Franklin Honor Society.
The BFHS is a printing related organization that honors individuals who have made a lasting, positive impact on the industry.
I was very proud to be inducted.
We had a great time.

Friday, May 6, 2011

Still Kickin'

Now nearly 3 months after my heart surgery, I'm doing excellent! (as far as my heart goes).
My blood pressure is down, I lost 15-20 pounds, and I walk about 2.5 miles most days.

The next issue is my torn Rotator cuff. I've had the problem for 6 months (even before my heart surgery). Now it's time to get it taken care of.  Sooooo
I have arthoscopic surgery scheduled for May 23.
The big problem is the rehab. I'll be in a sling and won't be able to play golf for months.
Bummer.

Ed

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Back to WORK !

I met with my Cardiologist this morning and he gave me the A-OK.
I'll be back at my desk tomorrow and on-the-road Thursday.

I had an Echo-Cardiogram and an EKG.
Doctor Massey said my heart is better today than it's been for the past 10 years.
My MVP is gone (the whole point of my operation), and it's beating normally.

I'm exercising (walking) and I lost about 15 pounds and aim to keep it off.

I am also restricted to lifting no more than 15 pounds for the next month or so.
Even though they're weaning me off some meds, controlling my blood pressure, and I'll still have some follow-up Doctor visits,
this will be my last post for a while.

I want to thank everybody for their support and prayers.
It obviously did some good.

Ed

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Thumbs Up !

It's been 4 weeks and two days since my surgery (but who's counting?).
I visited my Surgeon today, as scheduled.
He gave me a good bill-of-health, and I feel really good.

My Heart valve is functioning well and my rhythm is 'in tune'.

I also have an appointment with my Cardiologist next Tuesday.
I surely expect he will be pleased with my progress and I hope to return to work next Wednesday.

Ta Ta for now.
Ed

Thursday, March 3, 2011

I've Got Rhythm - but, still can't dance

This morning I had my Cardio Version ("Shock").
Preparation took 2 hours - procedure took 2 minutes.
My heart rhythm is back to normal.
We're praying my heart maintains the correct rhythm.

At one point, a 'Nurse' came in from the next room with a rectal thermometer behind her ear.
She was patting her pockets as she said "now where did I put my Pencil?"
I wouldn't want to be the guy in the next room.

Ed

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

My Birthday

Today was my Birthday. I'm 39 ... or I wish I was.

Tomorrow I have to go in to the hospital for the "shock" treatment (Cardio Version) to reestablish my rhythm.
They use the Paddles just like on TV, but I'll be doped up with happy juice and I won't feel a thing (they say) .
It's no big deal, except it will take about 6 hours of my time.  Yuk !
I'm all 'charged up' about it.

We'll let you know the results in a day or two.
Ed

Monday, February 28, 2011

A little set back

Today is Day #20.
I went to my Cardiologist this morning.
He did an EKG and found that my heart is a little out of rhythm.
I have been taking medication to control the rate, but less and less each week.
He put me back on a stronger dose for a coupe days, and may have to "shock" it back into proper rhythm.

Other than that, I feel pretty good.
I continue to walk each day (with Sue).
I lost about 13 pounds.

I'm also repairing some electronic equipment, related to my work (Densitometers), and
I'm taking an on-line course regarding Color Managment.
I have completed 6 out of 18 lessons.
Both are good therapy.

Ed

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Lunch at Wikoff

I stopped in at Wikoff's home office today and had lunch with our Technical Services Group
(guys I work with, from all over the country).
At the same time, I saw and thanked many people for their support and well wishes.
After only 15 days, it lifted my spirits to see everyone.
It will probably be another 3 weeks before I can return to work.

I told them (since I'm not allowed to drink alcohol) that Budweiser sent me a card
saying..... "Get well soon, We miss the revenue".

Ed

Sunday, February 20, 2011

WALKING

The Doctor said I must Walk, so...
my Father-in-law stopped by,  put me in his car (I'm not allowed to drive),  drove me to the Golf Course,  handed me a Putter & some balls, and said
"Go take a walk on the putting green".

As I said before, I feel great. Can't believe the progress I'm making (I am 'walking').
I went to church today to give thanks.
Can you believe it? 12 days ago they split my breastbone down the middle, Stopped my heart for over an hour while they did Open Heart Surgery and ....
I only missed ONE SUNDAY of church.

Must be because my Doctor is very High Tech.  He has a 52" HD TV AND an I-Pad! - Impressive.
Ed

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Day 9

First Doctor visit since hospital (Primary Physician).
He checked-me-out to make sure all is going well, and said....
 "I'm the 'Poster Boy' for a successful Open Heart Surgery".

My Mom from Pittsburgh, who has been visiting, left yesterday.
No, she didn't go home, she went to Florida for about a Month.
Just left me here to fend for myself.
Actually, now that she knows I'm 'OK', she'll be able to enjoy the remainder of her travels.
She's an Angel. Sue and I appreciated her help and support.

The only problem I have is.....
Last Night our sewer backed-up. Totally clogged.
The good news is, today they found the problem on the CITY SIDE.... THEY PAY !!!

That's all for now.
Ed

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

End of First Week

Well, today is Tuesday.  It's been a full week now.
I'm still here and getting better.
I feel a little sore and tired, but am quite thankful to be in this position.

Others I know, are not so lucky.

I've been taking short walks outside, and
Sue, my Mom and I ate out (lunch) today.

Let me end by saying:
"it's good to have so many well wishers and friends to pray for you and prop you up when needed. The biggest of those.... Susan, my loveable wife.
I don't know what I'd do without her.
Thanks",
Ed

Saturday, February 12, 2011

I'm Home

I came home today around 2:30 PM, and I'm so thankful for my fast recovery.
It surpised everyone inculding me. It has to be close to a record (Open Heart surgery and home in 4 days??).
It was all the prayers and well wishes that did it - I'm sure.

I'm somewhat sore & tired, but Sue and my Mom are taking good care of me.
As I said before, the operation could not have come-out better:
1. My Mitral Valve is 100% fixed (No leaks).
2. My irregular heart beat is now 100% perfect, and
3. My "appendage" ('Pouch' that can cause clots) is now taken care of.

I had some incentive to get better and come home - The hospital food was terrible.

Thanks again, for your support and encourgement.
Ed

Friday, February 11, 2011

Unbelievable progress

Ed's recovery is going better than expected.  He may be home tomorrow.

Thanks for all of your well wishes.

Thursday, February 10, 2011

No longer in ICU

Ed's recovery is remarkable.  All of the tubes, IVs, etc are removed.  He left ICU and is in a private room.  The nurses are managing the pain from the "broken" breastbone.    At the rate he is improving, he should be home soon.

Frankenstein scar 2/10/11




Ed - 48 hours after surgery