Two years ago today they wheeled me into a cold operating room, opened up my chest, stopped my heart, replaced the aortic valve, restarted the heart then glued me back together (seriously). I’m still here. So what is my life like after major open heart surgery? Early recovery after surgery was a slow process but two years later I feel like all is well. I’m only on two medicines, 83 mg of bayer aspirin and Atorvastatin. Doctors tell me heart sounds good, so I’ll go with that and continue my now annual examinations. It is my responsibility to keep this body as healthy as I can so I walk regularly and eat as healthy as I can. I say that because every once in awhile I eat a DQ Blizzard when they are not looking. The doctors and nurses did their part. I want to now do my part.
The past two years I’ve started and finished a book with images of horizons including thoughts I have on the horizons we all face in our lives. It’s written in my crude poetic form but it’s a start, something new. I have begun to read poetry which I had never done before. I’m blaming all this on the meds. Even began to experiment with haiku which I’m enjoying but taxing for most readers of this blog. I’ve started another small book that includes a few current images and the haikus I’ve written. About a year ago I had cataract surgery so I no longer need to wear glasses except to read. The change in my vision after eye surgery was amazing and without a doubt made me a much better photographer. 😁 So with the change in my vision and a new perspective on life I upgraded my camera this past year so I can be an even better photographer. 😁
In all seriousness my heart is working just fine and is full of gratitude. I am also grateful for you who follow this blog, your comments of enlightenment and encouragement and for any prayers you may have offered! Yes, grateful!
11 Comments
Joe
Happy to hear the recovery is moving forward successfully. The haikus are appreciated here as I’ve done many of my own over the years and enjoy the simplicity. An excellent portrait topping this post!
Monte Stevens
Thank you, Joe. The haikus are fun and because the are simple. Not only that but I’ve discovered there are many similar forms of poetry that include the haiku. I would like to venture into them also.
The self-portrait is done with a tripod, prefocused then set the timer. This is a wicker rocker in my bedroom looking out my bay window. One of my two places in my condo I consider a sanctuary.
Faye
So glad to hear that your recovery continues. That is a life event that will get your attention and put everything into perspective. Sounds like you have a healthy (physically and mentally) outlook. Keep the photos and stories coming!
Monte Stevens
Interestingly, this past week I went back and read the four stories we wrote 10 years ago about the lost pen. I read yours and mine. I want to thank you for the suggestion to write these stories because they have been transformative for me. I owe you!
And, I hope to continue with the photos and stories!
Faye
10 years? Yikes! I’m glad one of us is successfully writing on a regular basis. 🙂
Earl
As Test Pilot Chuch Yeager once said, “If you can walk away from a landing, it’s a good landing. If you use the airplane the next day, it’s an outstanding landing.” I guess the same could be said about our bodies and medical procedures. Good news all around. 🙂
You, your photos and stories would certainly be sorely missed.
Have you made an updated self-portrait?
Monte Stevens
I guess I had an outstanding landing. 😉
Thanks for the affirmation on my work with this blog. I do wish for some to enjoy my images and posts.
No I have not updated a self-portrait for some time. May have to fix that.
Tom Dills
The capabilities of our medical profession continue to amaze me, and I am always glad to hear of someone who has had a “repair” like yours that is successful, even outstanding. 🙂
It’s good to hear that you have had no further issues other than the follow-up “patch job” they had to do, and I assume you haven’t developed an aversion to ham (or was it lamb – I forget? 😉 ). Being able to enjoy an occasional Blizzard is a real treat.
Add my voice to those expressing admiration for your writings and your photography. You have been a source of inspiration for me and I value your insight and friendship. Kathy & I have enjoyed our brief in-person and virtual visits over the last few years and look forward to many more!
Monte Stevens
Thanks for all the kind words and for our visits while you were out here. My valve is made from cow. It’s suppose to last the longest. And, there is only way for them to know that. So, I’, good with it.
Thank you for following this blog and my attempts at humor, writing and imagery. I consider it a gift to have people who leave comments.
Dan Peacock
It seems your process of recovery has lead to some awesome perspective shifts for you. Monty’s living it up and it’s awesome to see 😁
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Dan, and glad you stopped, read and left a comment. Good to also talk with you on the phone. Glad your life is moving in a good direction.