I had my open heart 2 years ago- ironically it was not to replace my valve(it’s still functioning ok as a bicuspid) but I had a large aortic arch aneurysm due to another congenital defect. I was 42 when I had my open heart. The tough part was my dad had passed away in his open heart surgery 2 years prior. I am not going to lie- I have never felt so lonely and scared in my life as I did laying on the operating table waiting to be put out. I couldn’t have any sedatives before because I had to have hypothermia I had to get a normal baseline eeg for 5 minutes before I went to sleep. The staff in that Mayo OR was so awesome- everyone in the room at them time went around introduced them selves, they told me step by step what was going on, the anesthesia Dr held my hand wiped my tears, the eeg lady spoke to me. I couldn’t have asked for better people to be in a room to make sure I woke up. I felt very taken care of and went to sleep knowing I would be seeing my family again. This is one of the hardest, scariest things you are going to ever face. I am so sorry that you have to go through it. Find an institution and team that you feel comfortable and safe with. For me that was Mayo. Dr.Pochettino and Dr.Bower were literally my saviors. I will be sending many positive vibes and wishes for health and healing your way Monday! Remember even though you may feel alone there you really have so many people behind you and pulling for you!
Best wishes for peace and recovery!