Need input from a septal survivor :)

Hi @hopenr, I would suggest you read some of @walkinggirls posts...she describes in amazing detail her journey to and from the Mayo Clinic for her open heart septal myectomy. She had to drive from NY to MN.
I had to fly across the country from Northern California and drive 2 hours to the airport first...it's totally do-able.
Plus, not sure if you read my little story??
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/what-i-learned-from-my-open-heart-surgery-part-1/

I have read them and they really are informative. I was hoping to connect with an experience in my age range.

I am a 73 year old female who had a septal myectomy on March 28, 2025 at the Mayo Clinic. My surgery was about 3 1/2 hours long, spent 3 days in ICU then 2 days in PCU. The care is excellent. Did not have to have a pacemaker, my heart started working on its own on the third day.
I flew to Rochester from Texas, but for the return home, my family rented a B&B for two days to regain some strength and get rest. No real rest in the hospital. For me this was a blessing, I could practice walking and sleep when I wanted. I flew home on the third day out of the hospital.
No real problems, but understand that your chest will be very tender and all movement is felt-hold that pillow they give you when traveling.
Because you are so tired from the process of surgery, it is hard to realize how much better your heart is working, no more fatigue after a walk across the room!
I have started basic PT for balance and strength- you get weak fast in a hospital bed. In four weeks I start Cardiac rehab.
I cannot say enough about this surgery, I look forward to all the activities that were shelved due to extreme fatigue for the past 6+ years . I wish you well. You won’t regret it!

What a great report- I am so happy it went so smoothly for you. I am opting for an Air B&B rather than a hotel room because many come with recliners and seem very comfortable. Thank you so much!

Dear @hopenr
The PT you will do will require you climb steps, you will learn how to face and hold on to the banister and use steps one at a time. Use a wheelchair at the airport for the journey home. I was 75 when I joined the septal myectomy club and I am amazed at the many differing experiences we have been sharing. I was sitting in a chair and walking very slowly short distances the day following surgery. See if you can strengthen back, leg and core muscles as you await your date. You will be in the best hands!