Has anyone ever had open heart surgery?

United States
June 23, 2009 3:11am CST
My mom is about to have 3 bypasses in a few hours. She has a slight heart attack last week and decided to go to the emergancy room (after we begged her) and she's been in the hospital since. I'm very nervous and scared. I'm trying my best not to cry and to think as positively as I can. Has anyone ever had open heart surgery? If so, how long did it take you to recover and what was your experience?
5 responses
@gdesjardin (1918)
• United States
23 Jun 09
My mother had quadruple (4) bypass surgery about 15 years ago. She was 65 years old, and diabetes and high blood pressure. She was in surgery a short amount of time then was expected, and she told a short amount of time to recover than they anticipated. She just turned 80 this past March. Of course I won't sugar coat it, it is a serious operation and it isn't a pleasant recovery. My mom was in a lot of pain for a while. My mom was a real trooper throughout her recovery which surprised us all as she is not great with pain AT ALL. Like I said that was about 15 years ago and the medical field has so advanced since then so it is probably more routine that ever these day. I will pray for your mom...please keep us posted on her recovery.
• United States
23 Jun 09
Try to see the bigger picture...Your Mom only had a mild heart attack which got her to the hospital in time to take care of some major blockages before there was a bigger heart attack. Whenever I learn someone for some reason has to get by-pass I always feel thank heavens they found the blockages in time before the worst possible could happen. I hope all goes well. Do not be afraid to go and have a good cry and get it out of your system. Its normal to be scared and worried. I always feel better after a good cry. Holding it all in will do you no good and your mom will need your strength and support for awhile.
@underdogtoo (9579)
• Philippines
23 Jun 09
I know many people have had open-heart surgery ever since it was invented but I don't think I would need any at all. My heart is strong as a horse's heart and maybe even more. cheers!!
• China
23 Jun 09
Hope God bless your mother!
@dianmelydia (2269)
• Indonesia
23 Jun 09
I think no one want to have heart surgery. It's so risky. But no choice if you have heart problem. My friend's father had a same bypass like your mother. But i don't know how many he had. However, your mother must control her diet and work. Don't work so hard. Have a nice day and happy mylotting.