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Diana P. Caregiver

Driving for work

Mon, 05/05/2014 - 9:31AM

Has anyone been given clearance to drive at work? My husband is back to work but it would help his position if he was able to drive a city vehicle (short distances-no longer than 10 minutes of driving). Our LVAD team and surgeons won't sign off on letting him drive because of liability issues. I'm hoping to find some others that are able to drive to help them change their minds.

Thank you,

Diana

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Gene S.

Wed, 05/21/2014 - 11:22PM

I had my LVAD implanted 07/31/13. The physical therapy team at the Cleve. Clinic gave me the permission to drive 60 days later. They had me stretching and bending. They contacted the transplant team. Driving was no more of a challenge than using the bathroom. The seat belt was a small problem as it attaches where my drive line exits my abdomen.

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Anonymous

Thu, 05/22/2014 - 3:43PM

My wife was told she could drive after 90 days, and by gosh, she drove exactly 90 days following implantation. Now, here commute takes her five minutes and we live in a small town, but nevertheless she is driving. She would be the first to tell you that she is not comfortable in leaving our town without someone with her and I totally agree. Good luck and I hope you get your wish!

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Mnbennett5@comcast.net B.

Thu, 05/22/2014 - 11:57PM

I was implanted in April, I live in Washington. I can not drive with the LVad. So far it hasn't been a problem, but my husband is going back to work. We have a 12 year old daughter who loves sports. This should be interesting... Good luck I hope you get to drive...