Many of you have already heard, but in case you haven’t… I had a heart attack on Friday, October 27, 2017. I’m very thankful my husband was home and got me to our local hospital’s emergency room in very little time. There they stabilized me while consulting with our regional cardiologist. Although the heart attack enzyme was found in my blood, the electrocardiogram (ECG) wasn’t conclusive, so I was sent to another area hospital for a CT scan. This ruled out a blood clot in my lung and confirmed the heart attack.
The next morning I was flown to our regional hospital and admitted to the cardiac ICU for further testing. An angiogram Sunday morning showed the blockage, and the doctor placed two stents end-to-end, for a total of about 32 mm (1.25″). A balloon pump helped support the artery for 24 hours. I spent about 3 days total in ICU before being moved to a step-down unit then released a day later.
My husband had chased the ambulances across British Columbia and stayed in a nearby motel several nights. It was a great encouragement and help having him nearby and participating in the discussions with the cardiologist and nursing staff. He’s been my caregiver since we returned home, managing both me and my pharmacopeia as well as our home.
Here’s my view in cardiac ICU.
This image of the angiogram shows the blockage in my heart.
This image shows where the two stents were placed.
My job: trying to suck in enough air to get those plastic balls in the air… and hold. I did manage to get one in the air before I was discharged!
This is a few days after the angiogram, probably the most impressive day of the bruise!
I’ve been home for over a week now, being well cared for, and getting stronger every day. While it wasn’t my most favorite experience ever (not by a long shot!) it answers some long-standing medical questions for me, and I’m looking forward to renewed health. I have a lot to be thankful for!
Yipes again, but so glad you’re healing now. That was one fascinating view you had for three days. I hope your imagination kept you busy.
Thanks. The view was so exciting I kept falling asleep. My imagination took naps too. 😉
Well, there’s something to be said for catching up on your sleep, right :).
Being sick is exhausting!
Praising GOD for your recovery, will keep praying for healing and renew strength.
Thanks so much, Marion. You are appreciated.
Praise God you’re alive and well and there’s a chance we’ll meet again.
Thanks, Anita! Regardless, we KNOW we will meet again, on this side or the other side. But I’m happy to have the option of THIS side still open.
Praying for your continued recovery. Happy Thanksgiving!
Thank you! So far, so good. 🙂