Yes @cwarren29860, please keep me posted...I will virtually hold your hand and share any tips I can think of that I haven't already.
So, no walker for me. I was in really good health except for the HOCM. I was very active and that helped me in recovery. The recliner I could have done without, but my man thought it would be easier for me. We stayed in Rochester an extra three days. I was able to go to a post-op appointment. I would have been fine to come home a day (or two) after discharge, but since this was my first open heart surgery I was super cautious. I think the thought of open heart surgery gets us so hyped up, and even though it is a big surgery, it's not as horrible as we make it. Don't get me wrong...it is not fun and there are some tough moments, but each day gets easier and easier. And getting your life back is priceless. I cannot imagine living with HOCM like I was. I feel like a new person and am so grateful.
The ICU stay and pain med thing is definitely difficult. I took half of a half of one pain med. It made me itchy and so from then on it was extra strength Tylenol. Which did nothing for me. Do not be afraid to ask for pain meds. I still marvel that all I got was Tylenol. They have a strict pain med policy.
I look forward to hearing back from you after your appointment. I'll be thinking of you!
Debra