After three echocardiograms in three different countries showing severe mitral and tricuspid regurgitation, which prompted us to come to the Cleveland Clinic, we’ve found that my valves are moderate and not severe based on the more comprehensive echocardiogram I had yesterday. I do not need valve surgery.
However, after many other tests, including blood tests, it appears something is very wrong with my heart, requiring more doctor visits and invasive tests. This morning, I had a nuclear stress test, which started with a heart scan with injected radioactive isotopes, followed by a stress test.
They stopped the stress test early when it was too dangerous for me to continue and considered using a blood vessel-dilated intravenous drug as an alternative. Still, the doctor refused to have me injected with the alternate medication for a lay-down stress test since it, too, was too dangerous with the awful EKG (ECG) they were reading on the screen.
Soon, I have to call the cardiologist we saw yesterday to be referred to another cardiology specialist to go to the next step. My not-so-good blood test results are pointing to other possible heart conditions, and at this point, we have no idea what’s on the horizon. My past cardiac bypass surgery may have failed, which may require another open heart surgery.
After I had the bypass surgery in South Africa in February 2019, the cardiothoracic surgeon explained I might get eight years out of that surgery. Now, I am 5½ years old since the major surgery, and it may have run its course earlier than expected.
We’ll continue with as many more tests and doctor visits as possible to have a complete diagnosis and treatment plan in the next few weeks.
The thoroughness, competency, and care exhibited by all Cleveland Clinic employees, from the reception desk staff to the highly specialized doctors, are outstanding. We couldn’t feel more at ease being here. A big sign in some lobby areas states, “Cleveland Clinic is recognized as the #1 cardiac center in the world.” We knew this, but it was comforting to see it, making us realize we’d done the right thing by coming here.
The hotel is nice, but we plan to move on September 2 to the nearby Residence Inn by Marriott, which also has a shuttle to the clinic. Due to demand, hotel prices are high here, but we have to bite the bullet and see what kind of deal we can get from Marriott’s Bonvoy perks program since we are members. We’ll be calling today to see the pricing we can arrange.
Am I nervous or afraid? Surprisingly, not. We’re always enjoying our time together, staying upbeat and hopeful. Tom is a perfect wheelchair operator, and we often laugh over the incredible nature of my being wheeled everywhere.
Some may say, “How do I so freely share such intimate details of my health?” However, hundreds of readers have written our vulnerability has helped them with their worries and concerns. If we can help one person gain comfort during their health challenges, it will be worth every revealing moment.
We are not special. Like many of you, we are trying to navigate challenging times in our lives using whatever means are available to us with dignity, persistence, and humility.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, August 29, 2014:
Hang tough, both of you. I’m so glad to know you’re in the hands of the experts, and finally starting to get answers. Big hugs and much aloha always. Louise xx
Louise, we always revel in hearing from you when we met you and your dear Steve in Hawaii almost ten years ago. We think of you often and know that somehow you have built a purposeful life even after losing him. Thanks for sending love and alohas.
Much love,
Jess & Tom
I love your last paragraph. It is so true for all of us navigating through life. Sending positive vibes for a speedy and healthy outcome. ❤️
Karen, thanks for sending those positive vibes. I can feel them all the way from here. Hope you are doing well and enjoying life.
Warmest regards,
Jess & Tom
Jessica,
I’m so glad you are exactly where you should be at this moment. I’ve been following you since you two first set out on this journey, and what a journey it’s been! Of course I love all the travel tales, but what I’ve come to enjoy over the many years is that you tell-it-like-it-is. No sugar coating, just honesty! I wish you the best while at CC and really smiled at your comment “Tom is a perfect wheelchair operator, and we often laugh over the incredible nature of my being wheeled everywhere.” Lots of love to you both❤️
Janet, we often wonder if our readers mind our endless ramblings about our daily lives when we aren’t getting out and about in our travels. It is always comforting to read comments from our dear readers, such as you, who don’t mind our less than exciting times, while we experience “everyday” life. Thank you for being YOU and sharing this life with us.
Much love,
Jess & Tom
Sending my love, my prayers are here with you.
I watch your letters every day, it makes me feel
closer to you.
xoxoxo
Cousin Phyllis
Phyllis, you are so thoughtful and loving. We will get through this regardless of what transpires. We appreciate all of your love and concern.
Much love,
Jess & Tom
Jessica, glad you safely arrived in Cleveland and are getting the best care possible. Have no doubt the doctors will figure out what is going on. We will be in your area soon. Much love to you and Tom. Carol & Mark
What dates will you be here? If no surgery yet, we can go to dinner. We don’t have a car so maybe you could pick us up at our hotel?
Love,
Jess
We will be just an hour east Sept 3 until leaving 11th. Yes we can come get you, we have full size suv!
Great! Let’s touch base when you get here. I have several invasive tests coming up and possibly surgery but don’t know anything yet. But most likely we can figure it out.
Much love
Jess