6 Month Update!

Hey everybody,

I just had my 6-month follow-up since being hospitalized in October. It was a busy week with appointments and traveling, but overall a productive week. I had two physical tests done, a CPET* and a PFT*.  Both I believe I excelled on (still waiting on results), but I was able to manage both tests without getting too winded or faint. 

We had a few days in between appointments, so to Marblehead we went! It was nice, especially since it was a 70-degree day in March.....  

I did meet with the Neurologist, but honestly didn't find help with that. This is why you always advocate for yourself. I definitely will be getting a second opinion because having headaches every day is not normal. 

Finally, we met with Dr. Mastoris again, and he was impressed by the improvement that we have shown. The procedure I had while in the hospital has really helped overall. Plus, some new meds and weight loss have helped tremendously as well. I'm not retaining as much fluid as I was prior, I have energy (to some extent), and I feel pretty good not being purple all the time. We talked about what's next for me, and he felt comfortable enough for me to get a low-maintenance part-time job as long as I didn't overwork myself, so I consider that a positive note. 

Let's hope this lasts and we see more improvements. 

I am not obviously out of the woods yet and transplant is still in the future, but right now I am doing well. Next appointment will be with the new liver doctor because, yes, my heart is the main focus, but my liver will be the driving force of where we are at. I'll recheck with Cardiology again during that Boston trip, too. 

Also, maybe a Red Sox game? 'Tis the season! 


Keep sending the good vibes, positive thoughts, and prayers. 

-M


*CardioPulmonary Exercise Test, a non-invasive, hour-long diagnostic exam that evaluates how your heart, lungs, and muscles work together during exercise by riding a stationary bike or walking on a treadmill while breathing into a mask to measure oxygen use and CO₂ production.

* Pulmonary Function Test, a noninvasive, 30–60 minute diagnostic tests that measure lung volume, capacity, rates of flow, and gas exchange to assess overall respiratory health. 


                 






Comments

  1. Lucinda WingertMarch 22, 2026 at 6:57 PM

    Love you Mel, sending good vibes your way always!

    ReplyDelete

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