Mixed Blessings???

I was so excited this weekend after getting through my cardiac stress test on Friday. I made my list of post-op groceries and vitamins and went shopping to get ready. I got the small containers, baby spoons, Adkins Shakes (that were on sale at Target - 2 packs for 10.00). I even went on line and ordered my very own "Magic Bullet Blender" from Walgreens. I was all set for the wait to hear that my insurance approved my surgery. Then...I got a call from my family physician. He was reporting that I had some ischemia (decreased blood flow) to my heart during my cardiac stress test Friday so I need to see a cardiologist and most likely have an angiogram. I must have had a premonition as this is what I feared about the stress test. I didn't have any chest pain but apparently there were changes anyway. The good news is they found this before I had an actual heart attack. Heart disease in women can be missed so easily as the symptoms can be different from those men experience. The bad news is I was a cardiac surgical intensive care nurse for 18 years so I have all the horror stories stuck in my brain instead of all the successes I saw (that way out numbered the complications). I encouraged both my father and my father-in-law through this test as well as the father of my brother-in-law. I am doing my best to think positively but I cannot deny that I am afraid. I talked to a co-worker today that is also waiting for insurance approval. She has a history of chest pain and two partially blocked coronary arteries and has cardiac clearance for surgery. I am hoping for the best case scenario with minimal blockage that will allow me to go forward with this surgery. After all, the significant weight loss that would result would be better for my heart if it is compromised. I have told my husband, sister and a close friend but will wait to tell other family members until I know for sure that I have an angiogram schedule. No sense in worrying anyone before I have to. My cardiology appointment is Thursday afternoon. If I am told I need an angiogram I am going to ask for it as soon as possible so I have less time to stew about it. Keep me in your prayers!

Wow this surgery may be a life saving surgery in more than one way. That can be very scary. I hope all works out well for you. I will keep you in my prayers. This is just a side track and will work out for the best. Good luck and keep us informed as to how things are going. Cindy

Thank you for the encouragement. It really means a lot to me! Jan

I agree, a blessing for sure! Even with a huge weightloss if the arteries are clogged, they are clogged! Good thing you found out now and can get it taken care of Still like you said, it is scary and only human to be worried.....This time next year, your gonna be healthy and lighter and this will all be a memory Wishing you the best.....keep us updated please.....Take Care (((((((HUGS))))))))~jesi

Thanks Jesi! You and Cindy are always so positive and encouraging. Posts like yours have helped me calm down, a bit anyway! 48 more hours and there will be a little less unknown, provided this nasty weather coming our way doesn't keep me from my cardiology appointment. I think I will skate there if I have to to get this behind me. Jan