almost 4 months

I want to post an update on how I'm progressing. I'm 47 and got my pm in March for bradychardia. The surgery went well but I had a few tough weeks where I didn't think I'd ever get my life back again. But since that time things have gotten so much better. It just takes time, patience, and lots of encouragement, and it definatly was tougher that the doctors say. But I did get back to work(teacher), then my second job(painter), did a week and scout camp with my son, and tomorrow I take my first plane flight post pm. I mention this in the hopes of encourageing new members that things can get better. On the other end I have been diagnosed with Panic Disorder(a post pm condition) and am on medication and seeing a therapist to help deal with this. This is getting to be less of an issue.
The people here who post and encourage are vital to each others recovery. Thanks for being a part of mine.
Rusty

3 Comments

Congratulations!

by auntiesamm - 2007-07-11 02:07:44

Hi Rusty - Glad to know you are over the proverbial "hump" and doing so well. I can't add anything to what Susan and Cathryn have posted. It is so interesting because of Susan's question yesterday or the day before about doctors not really preparing patients well for the cardiac device and post-operative period. They really don't have a clue unless they have had a PM themselves. She raised a great discussion and you have just added to it! Have a wonderful time wherever you are flying to and stay in touch. Though I have had my PM over a year and seldom give it much thought I sign on almost everyday to see what is going on. This web site has been a great "lifeline" for me and I have made many great friends! God bless and keep you safe on your trip.
Sharon

Thanks for sharing

by hooimom - 2007-07-11 06:07:08

Rusty,

You are so right about the support of the people on this site being vital to recovery. No one can truly understand this unless they have gone through it themselves. I tried to explain to my husband that this wasn't like his gall bladder removal where the organ is removed and never has to be thought of again---he just couldn't understand why I was sad after my PM. He tried to help and friends did too, but the support here is what helped me see that I was going to be alright. It was certainly a much bigger deal than the doctor said--but then again she doesn't have a PM. I have appreciated everyone on this site over the last year!
Each of us responds to our circumstance in a different way, but we have such a common bond. I am so glad to hear that you are doing well and getting better.

Michelle

Amen to that!

by ela-girl - 2007-07-11 12:07:42

I am glad to hear how much better you are doing, Rusty! And I think it is so cool when we, as members, can be so honest and open with one another. It is good for people to talk about it all and share experiences. It lets us know that we are not alone and that there is someone out there who can relate. Bravo, club members!

I turn 30 this Friday all thanks to my handy dandy pacer of 9 months. Praise God and let's go teachers! :)

I wish you safe travels wherever you land! Keep up the pacing!
ela-girl

You know you're wired when...

The mortgage on your device is more than your house.

Member Quotes

I just want to share about the quality of life after my pacemaker, and hopefully increase awareness that lifestyles do not have to be drastically modified just because we are pacemaker recipients.