New to the Pacemaker Club

Hi everyone!

I came across this website a few weeks back whilst frantically "googling" before my procedure. Anyway, now it's all done and dusted, i decided to come back and sign up 😀

A little about me...My name is Charlie and I'm 29 from the UK. After recently undergoing LOTS of tests following what the docs are calling a "Vacant episode" in July, they ruled out a stroke, epilepsy etc. One of the tests was a 7 day ECG and during my follow up with the consultant my husband and I were shocked to find out that there was a problem with my heart. After joking in the waiting room 5 minutes earlier that it's the only good thing on me!

I have intermittent AV block and had to have a pacemaker as a back up and to help my fatigue and dizzy spells. The consultant has been amazing, he allowed me to go away to take in the news and rebooked me into his clinic to discuss further. He even called me back to answer even more questions. The nursing staff were brilliant too.

I've had my Pacemaker 3 days now, still sore, bruised and swollen but not feeling as bad as I thought. The 'brain fog' has somewhat lifted but I'm not my usual speedy self at the minute when walking (in fact a pensioner over took me) but I'm out and about and being looked after by my family and friends.

Just noticed how long this message has got! So will stop waffling...I am really looking forward to reading all of your stories and posts :-)

All the best

Charlie x

5 Comments

Charlie

by IAN MC - 2016-01-17 06:01:51

As a fellow Brit, welcome to the club ! You will find that your new bionic life is normal in pretty well every way.

Glad that you found the medical treatment to be so good, the NHS is great when you really need it .

That pensioner who overtook you probably had a pacemaker too !

Cheers

Ian

congratulations

by Ms.Cryer - 2016-01-17 07:01:27

welcome to the club Charlie!!! It's been 3 weeks since I had my pacemaker and I can honestly say I am doing so much better.. i'm healing very well.. I too was and still am trying to accept the fact that i'm 42 years old with a pacemaker.. but hey I look at it life this I have a second chance at life.. so i'm very thankful

Welcome

by Sheppey - 2016-01-17 08:01:06

I am a recent recipient of a Pacemaker ( December 15). Sick Sinus Syndrome, Sinus Pauses, Brady/Tachy and Chronotropic incompetence. The Pacemaker stops me falling below setting of 60HR. Having difficulty with medication for Fast A/F and persistent A/F periods.
The new Pacemaker is a marvellous bit of kit.
I have a read out of the recorded A/F problems . Also, a read out of Sleep Apnea .. times, dates ,duration etc. Everything I need for future Clinic information.
I find it reassuring to know that all the important information required by the Medics is recorded and stored. Only a download away.
It has been six weeks to date-since implant...I do not notice it at all.
Previous to this ,I had a loop recorder implanted for 52 weeks.... no trouble.
A pacemaker is a friend, a comfort and a life saver.
I am sure you will soon be enjoying life to the full once again?
All the very best for the future.

Welcome

by BetsyQ - 2016-01-17 08:01:28

Welcome to the club. I've had my pm about 6 months now and I'm 55, so significantly older than you, but this group has been of immeasurable help to me. I'm glad to hear you've already been out walking. Congratulations and good luck.
Blessings,
Betsy

Thank you all.

by CW-S - 2016-01-19 07:01:15

Hello Everyone

Still trying to get to grips with this website and it appears I cannot thank you individually, so thanks to you all for your stories and advice.

I'm feeling much more positive about everything BUT as I am a bit of a rebel, those things which the doctor warned me of - I really want to do!
In my 29 years, I have never wanted to learn a martial art or weld but now it is strictly off limits...

You know you're wired when...

Your license plate reads “Pacer4Life”.

Member Quotes

I've seen many posts about people being concerned about exercise after having a device so thought I would let you know that yesterday I raced my first marathon since having my pacemaker fitted in fall 2004.