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Kristi F. Caregiver

MOMS LVAD

Tue, 12/01/2015 - 10:45PM
Hello, I'm looking for anyone that can give me advice ... My mother is 68 yrs old. My best friend and had a severe heart attack last Christmas Eve. This has been devastating to us but more importantly her. I'm caring for her and she is now on milrinone iv and her amazing team of Cardiologists are trying to get her to be accepted as candidate for LVAD she finally accepted to do this. She is 100 lbs and I'm reading things like most patients get a year out of this... Please tell me this is not true!! I'm being told by docs another 5-10 yrs which is what we are hoping for or even more. Thank you for any info. I'm a loving petrified only child (daughter)
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Jeff W.

Mon, 02/01/2016 - 11:00PM
Al I can tell you is my operation was 9/10/13 and after six months of various issues and goals that were achieved, I feel great! I have been on an Alaskan cruise including gold panning at an old creek. I get out almost everyday to metal detect. I bought my fishing license this year an plan to use it. Next month my wife and I are going on a 2000 mile road trip to Florida. I fear driving in traffic more than a heart attack. I feel 1000% better and my only worry is if my retire fund is enough to last for us. I will be 72 yrs old this year. If you have concerns ask the doctors. My doctor encouraged questions and told me no question is stupid.
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Lauren W.

Tue, 02/02/2016 - 4:54PM
I'm thrilled to read your story and know that you are doing so well! My brother, Eugene is currently in surgery having his device placement completed. Your look great and I'm pleased to know that you feel 100% better. We hope you continue enjoy your life!
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Sally B.

Tue, 02/02/2016 - 4:34PM
I'm 68 too. So I feel an automatic kinship to your mother. I read on line that the average prognosis is about 4 years with the LVAD. Even that is ominous when you're only 68. I got my LVAD last June and it took awhile for me to start feeling better--about five months. I feel great now. I feel like eating and doing just about anything. So, the notion that I might only live another 3 1/2 years seems far-fetched. However, my doc says to remain vigilant with the dressing changes--observing all sterile protocols. Because--things could turn sour quickly if you get any sort of infection. My husband helps me. We try to do things exactly as instructed. I hope this helps.