We're Back!

So, I'll start at today and work back a bit.

Day 38 after surgery. As I near the 6 week mark, I must say I'm feeling pretty good. I'm considering going back to work soon. I have a hospital follow up appointment tomorrow and that will give me a better idea of how my recovery is really going. 

I've been lucky really. I knew this was coming and that allowed me to be mentally and physically prepared for surgery. Almost 4 years ago (Dec 2014), I was diagnosed with a heart murmur that turned out to be a Mitral Valve Prolapse. After a few tests I was told my prolapse was in the "moderate" range and that I should carry on life as normal, with an annual check up to keep an eye on any changes.

And carry on I did. 

2017 turned out to be a really good year for me as far as competing in the sports I love. I entered my first off road marathon and came 5th overall in a time of 4:38:54. My goal was to take an hour out of 2016's best 50-59, which I did with a few seconds to spare. 

I was really proud of that result.

Later in the year I competed in our local cyclocross series. I had a great bunch of races with a bunch of guys who made it impossible to let up at all. The season culminated with the nationals in Blenheim. I managed a solid 2nd in age group in very trying, but super fun, conditions. 

And then on to the local cycling clubs' XC Spring series. Which consists of 5 races in different locations around Greater Wellington. I borrowed a bike from work and made it along to 4 out of the 5 races. Once again the local age groupers really pushed me and although it was by no means a doddle I came away with 4 out of 4 wins, which was enough to secure the overall for my age group. 

BOOM. 

By this time, I could now buy my own bike and I chose "The Hill Slayer". My own Specialized Epic Comp Carbon and with the new bike came bigs plans for 2018's events. 

Nek Minute

Dec 22nd. This years check up in the bag.... result?......

Cardiologist: You better slow down the intensity and we'll look to getting this valve fixed. 

Me: How long long for?

C: Most of the year (2018). Hopefully get in to surgery mid year.

M: Oh. That's good!?

So, I had tons of time to prepare. I went on a few rides, but keeping my heart rate down is just something I don't do very well. I tried to enjoy them but my heart just wasn't in it... so to speak. 

The first few months of 2018 were the hardest. I eventually got over it and accepted that I was lucky to be in a position that I could get this fixed and by all accounts get a result that would allow me to get back to my "normal" life. The wait for the surgery date was excruciating. January, February, March, April, May and then, finally, in late June I got the call up. Check in on the 29th July, surgery on the 30th. I was relieved and shit started to feel real.

I mentioned I had tons of time to prepare. I got the feeling in hospital that this wasn't common. It seemed that it's more likely that you find out you're sick one week and need surgery the next. That, to me, would be the least ideal way to have to find out surgery/treatment is required but unfortunately, is probably more likely.

In the weeks leading up to my surgery, I was lucky enough to have a friend, Gary, advise me on what I could do to try and get the absolutely best result from my surgery. This required me to take a number of supplements to help my body deal with the beating it was going to go through during and after my open heart surgery. This included supplements to aid bones and ligaments heal and repair. Along with the pills, I banged out a few push ups and planks to give me a stronger core. These proved invaluable when, on day 2 after surgery, after I had had a bunch of draining tubes removed from my stomach, I got myself out of bed and went to the toilet. Competitive Much? Hey, it wasn't easy but I did it. 

I was astounded by the number of bits hanging out of me after surgery. Three tubes in my belly, one in my neck, four attached to my heart (just in case) and a catheter. Oh yeah, I also had the leads for the heart monitor. 

The surgeon was able to repair my valve. That in itself is rare. It means I won't have a replacement part that may well have impeded my ability to lead the active life I'm so eager to get back to. Thanks Mr J. McGiven.

As the days go by, I don't really remember how painful recovery has been But it has certainly been a rollercoaster. You do not feel a bit better each day. Late last week I was feeling below average and a week earlier I believed I'd turned a corner. It's 5 1/2 weeks since surgery and I feel pretty good. I still need to watch myself. Restricting the use of my hands in regards to not be able to push or lift my body. Leg and core strength has been a godsend. 

So through all of this Karen has been a rock. Putting up with more than my usual shit, looking after all my needs and reminding my to take it easy when I think I can push a bit harder. I can not thank her enough.

So, here comes 2019. I know, it's only September but I'm probably not back on the bike until late October/November and then it's almost Christmas. 

From where I'm sitting I can see the hills I love to run and ride in and that's been a daily inspiration and reminder of what I have waiting for me. I feel very lucky to have had the chance to get my heart fixed before it became more serious and I'd like to thank the Doctors, Alexander (my cardiologist), the surgeon, all the wonderful nurses and hospital staff. And you too, Martin, for pushing my surgery through on the 30th and not sending me home to wait for the next spare spot. I'm forever grateful.