As the end of week one draws near, I can reflect on the improvements I have made. Although I still feel like a shadow of my self last Sunday, I am exponentially better than I was last Monday. It was an extremely difficult week and I would hope no one ever has to experience it. My transformation in the last 24 hours has given me the faintest shimmer at the end of this long tunnel. A week ago a butterfly could have taken me down, now it is not even a fair fight. The weakness I can see will be my biggest struggle. I was so used to doing anything physically I wanted to do. I will be very motivated to regain that confidence again and I look forward to that 6 month target in early June when I can run five miles or play 36 holes. Losing my caterpillar speed and child-like strength will be more than welcome in the next few weeks. Getting a second chance on my life is more than worth these inconveniences. Thanks again for all the support. If it were not for all of you, I don’t know where my spirits would be. Love you all.
Mike's Heart Beat Report
Chronicle of an aorta and its repair
Dear Michael,
Happy to see you made it home! And thank you for continuing to share your thoughts and frustrations in writing. I hope blogging is a help and not a nuisance. It is a window into your life that I am so grateful to have right now. Thank you for sharing. Please know that I think about you all the time and so wish I could be there for you right now. And yes, that “truck” you speak of came out of nowhere.
Since you’ve gone through this, I keep hearing only good stories of others who have gone through something similar. All having positive things to say about their “new” lives. Feeling actually stronger and more energetic than before. I know that this will all be there for you, too. You are so strong and have a network, with Kathy at the helm, that is like no other. You have always been so generous in everything you do, that now is your time to benefit from the love and generosity of those you have so loved over the years. Let it pile on.
xoxo, Katie
So glad to hear you are making strides in your recovery. We are all pulling for you & hopefully you are feeling the energy we are sending your way. By the way love the battle scar (lol)!
Joy
Mike,
Glad you made it home. Hope you’re having a good Mon AM. Lots of room for optimism at the one week mark. Your body has already turned a sig corner by allowing you to get home. Now you will steadily put the insult of surgery behind you and begin to make real strides. Wont be easy, or fast. May seem like two steps forward and one back for awhile but you’ll get there. Great work so far. Don’t forget the “tropicana” thing. John B
Mike,
So as I walk the halls here at UH today, it seems a bit odd not to have you to drop in on. I actually enjoyed seeing you so often and still am in awe at the pace of your recovery. I know it must seem like it a slow slog to you but the rest of us admire your strength and determination. As always, I am here to help in any way I can. Just ask.
Bill A