I am happy to help. It is much better than scaring. I was not told my lifting instructions (do not hold breath, push or lift if you moan, groan, grunt) and exercise gradually builds your heart rate and BP which is ok. You do not want your blood flow pounding against your veins suddenly until AFTER my Surgery. I did not get to my one year follow up before my dissection happened. I was very LUCKY and had a lot of FAITH. To be honest we were limited in our education to even know what was happening. I just used up life number 7 if I were a cat. Keep your sense of humor. I wouldn't wait for an emergency as long as a surgeon thinks it is necessary and you are in good health. It is all the same surgery whether it is emergency or not. Insurance companies and hospitals consider this elective surgery. Go figure!