I had a totally unexpected heart attack 2 weeks ago, and due to God’s providence I started 12 weeks of rehab today. While I can now see some of the warnings with 20/20 hind sight, they were unheeded as I just didn’t think it could happen to me. Thankfully, I had my wife drive me to the ER “just in case” and they quickly realized that it was in progress and within 30 minutes had a heart cath going, and they were able to restart the ticker when it stopped and put a stent in one blocked artery.
I solicit your prayers as I continue rehab plus make some major lifestyle changes. After several days of just looking at my shop “stuff,” I’m ready to get back into it – as long as there is no heavy lifting.
I used to brag about how I hadn’t been to a physician in many years, didn’t take any pills, didn’t smoke or drink, could eat any thing I wanted to and how I felt great.
Folks, the time to see a doc is before you get sick – right? Also, while specialists are great and necessary, you need a general practitioner to see the big picture. That was another mistake I made, in that I had, and was cured, from cancer 2 years ago and regularly see an oncologist, surgeon, nephrologist, and urologist, I hadn’t gotten around to checking in with my family doctor. As a result no one picked up the developing coronary artery disease and stage 2 diabetes. (BTW – the cancer could have been prevented had I started getting a colonoscopy at the recomended age.)
I’m kinda in the same boat with you on a lot of things, but I see my doc on a regular basis. And my wife is a heart surgery nurse so she makes me take care of myself. Good luck in the days to come!
-- Les, Wichita, Ks. (I'd rather be covered in saw dust!)
Take it easy and take your time Joe. You’ll be ok. I have to go to the GP 4 times a year and I hate it. BUT, in the long run, it’s very much worth it. - JJ
I am 65 and have had type 2 Diabetes for 12 years. I was never overweight and did not eat a lot of sweets and went to the doctor at least every 6 months after 50. Sometimes it is all in your genes and not the blue kind. I have managed pretty good but the medication is not cheap. So Joe I am glad to hear that you took the right steps and went to the emergency room when you did and they were able to take care of you. Good luck on your recovery.
Really appreciate hearing from you all. I think one of the keys to a come back is having a big support group. I’m feeling better every day now.
Waroland – you are correct about the genes. Both my father and grandfather had type 2 diabetes and heart problems – but they were 15 years older when it hit them. The docs feel my diabetes will be controlled with weight loss and diet. I hope so, because the Medicare Part D donut hole will be on me soon with the other stuff I’m taking now.
Charlie – Make an appointment!!
Cessnapilot – Yep – if there is a next time, it will be a 911 call. Buying ambulance insurance tomorrow.
Dave – I plan on making much more sawdust. I’ll even be more careful than before ‘cause now bleeding will be harder to stop.
This dec 30 a day before my 64 birthday I had a Aorta valve replacement. Talk about on the fine edge and pain. When you get your chest cut open and they open your heart your glad the anastiza guy is truly doing his job. Morphine was a blessing. Three weeks later and on the road to recover. Cant lift so Joe we truly know the feeling. Dont cauff or sneeze or you feel like death is at your door step once more. I wish this on no one “but” it is part of life and all is good now so enjoy each day ….one at a time. Best to all Tommy [BigStick]
I’m very glad to hear that you are okay. I was on blood thinners for 5 months and was cleared to stop taking them just before the holidays. I was scared to pick up a chisel, to sharpen anything or to use a saw during that time. I was flying on a business trip and got a small paper cut on the plane one day. I had to go to the restroom 3 times to get paper towels to stop the bleeding. I don’t want to scare you but BE CAREFUL! Good luck and I’ll keep you in my prayers.
Hey Big Stick Compared with what you are going through, my problems are a piece of cake. I only have a hole my leg and a big bruise. Keep us posted on your progress.
As Northwoodsman said – be careful around sharp stuff.
I really didnt want to open a discussion on medical problems.. Heck we are all a bunch of babies.. Time to turn the lights out in the shop…till tomorrow..
Just like Mr. Mcpheeley (sp) from Mr. Rogers used to say “Speedy Delivery” I widh you both a “Sppedy Recovery. I am getting close to that age. I have been talking to my Dr. about what needs to be checked. Had my 1st prostate exam last year. I know it only gets worse from here on out. Anyway, get well soon.
-- www.carvingandturningsbyrick.com, Rick Kruse, Grand Rapids, MI
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