A final note from Mark

It was a very blessed Thanksgiving which we celebrated with family at my son David’s and his wife Rebecca’s home.  (Yes, we have two Rebecca Forsberg’s in the family).  Especially this Thanksgiving, there was so much to be grateful for. Thank you all for your parts in my journey!

I have slept at home for 64 nights compared to the previous 144 nights at Abbott Hospital.  Oh, it is so good to be in familiar surroundings with Becky and our pups, Coco and Teddy.

But I must begin with a story from Halloween.  At the front door, I leaned on my walker as I handed out candy to the steady stream of children.  One boy pointed at my walker with a quizzical look and asked “What’s that thing?”   My reply was “I just got out of the hospital from having heart surgery.”  After a pause, the boy exhaled with “Well, at least you’ve lived a long life”.  🤣.  I softly grumbled to myself “You may be right, but I still have many Halloweens ahead of me”.  

My home health care lasted 6 weeks so can check the box “done”.  Every week Becky also took me to multiple follow-up appointments at Abbott and referrals to other clinics.   It’s an involved process of loading and unloading walkers, curbside drop offs, and navigating on-line forms.  My sister Jodi is Becky’s #1 backup and daughter Bethany is on the care team too.

To the question of “how am I doing today?” I’m getting stronger and more agile every week.  I can “motor” using my walker and at times walk short distances with a cane, but only at home.  Next organized therapy will be cardiac rehabilitation at a to be determined date.  

It was a true pleasure to reread and once again enjoy the get well cards received.  A note in a card from Bethany hit home with me.  It was a quote by Mary Anne Radmacher, stating “Courage doesn’t always roar.  Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying I will try again tomorrow.” That has been my mindset in taking things one day at a time and praying each day for the endurance and patience I need.  I am forever grateful for your support and positivity- they have really helped me!

Becky and I wish you blessed holidays and a Happy (and healthy) New Year!