I can do 40 minutes on the TM at 1.8 MPH with a 1.0 grade without O2 and I could go longer but I stop only because others need to use the TM. I�m trying to increase the speed by at least 0.1 MPH with each session. I�ll continue using the TM at home and hope to get to 2.5 MPH for at least 40 minutes within the next two months. I�ll also continue on the stationary bike and light weight exercises. I plan to add stretching exercises to the routine. The doc told me that it takes most LVRS patients who�ve had successful surgery at least six months before they see the full benefits of the surgery.
As you might guess, I�ve been elected �cheerleader� by the techs for others in the pulmo rehab group who are testing for LVRS. The techs use me as an example to encourage others. Most come in using O2 and can barely do a few minutes on the TM. I tell them that I was in the same boat eight months ago and, if all goes well and with no guarantees, they can expect to see an improvement in their condition. I went into the LVRS program almost totally ignorant about everything involved and I�m happy to pass on my experience to others who know as little as I did in the beginning.
The odd sensations in my chest and the mild rib soreness have just about disappeared. The incision is still somewhat sensitive to the touch, sort of tickles, but not a problem. I�m now sleeping through the night most of the time. Before the surgery, I slept through the night but was tired by mid-day because of the effort it took to do simple things. That has past. I can now do a lot more without becoming exhausted. My stamina improves by the day.
My wife and I have decided to sell the house and move into a condo. No steps to climb or lawn and snow to worry about. As a result we�ve been getting rid of 35 years of accumulated stuff and junk plus doing all the sprucing up needed to sell the house. I�m mentioning this because six months ago, I wouldn�t have been physically able to do the necessary lifting, carrying and general cleanup it takes to get the house in selling condition. I do get slightly �winded� but nothing like the gasping SOB of the past I had with physical exertion. Thanks to LVRS and pulmo rehab, I can now do some of the chores I did in the past. Never thought I�d be happy to be able to put out the trash. It wasn�t a pleasant experience to see my wife do this instead of me.
Hope to have another update after I see the doc and have the PFT.
