Guarded Optimism
So, I finally got my hands on the test results that I’ve been waiting on for the last month and there is reason for optimism. Guarded, but optimism just the same.
The MRI report indicated that my ejection fraction (EF), which is a measure of how well my heart is pumping, is at 47% right now, which is a big improvement over the 35% from the last round of tests. By comparison, the normal EF in a healthy person ranges from 50% to 65%. So, if this report is accurate, I’m not far from that range. And, if the EF is in fact at 47%, it means that I probably won’t be having surgery to implant a defibrillator any time soon. Those are very big Ifs.
The results of the blood work done to check my potassium, iron, thyroid, etc… all came back within the normal ranges. And while there were a few blips on the tapes from the heart monitor I wore for a month, they don’t appear to be anything to worry about.
While all of those are good signs, I’m still left with a lot of questions about what the hell is going on. And, unfortunately, I can’t get in to see the doctor until March 9th. But, at least I have the reports and know what they say.
For now, I’m trying to go forward with guarded optimism that things aren’t as bad as believed. The clouds of doubt and despair that have consumed me in recent months aren’t making that easy, but I am trying. I guess time will tell.
Mike
Living with a Confusing Pancreas and a Broken Heart at age 36 #Diabetes #LADA #CongestiveHeartFailure. #MakeDiabetesVisible Creator, #ALittleHeartCanDoBigThings Creator, Advocate, Blogger, Nature Photographer.
12 Comments
Sarah
I understand your reasoning for wanting to be guarded… but can I just say??…
WOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! <3 <3 <3!!!!!!!!!!!!!! {{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}
Mike
Yes, Sarah, you appear quite capable of saying “WOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! <3<3<3 {{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}". And, I appreciate it. Lots of love, lil sista.
Kate
So glad to hear that good news. I know it will be a long wait until you actually speak to your doctor but at least you know something now. My husband has just gone through his latest round of tests and is seeing his doctor soon too. The waiting is awful but guarded optimism ain’t bad! Keeping my fingers and toes crossed for both of you.
Michael Hoskins
That uncertainty is the worst part, but like you’ve said it’s best to try and recognize what good news there may be in there instead of playing the “What If” games. Hope the doc visit in a few weeks (hopefully sooner, if cancellations help any with openings) goes OK.
Scott S
I’m with you on the optimism being “guarded”, but it sounds like good news!
Bea
It can only go up from here, Mike. I am glad that you have reasons to be optimistic. I’m going to join Sarah and say wooohooo! 🙂 Good luck!
PrincessLadyBug
I don’t know how to be guarded in my optimism so I’m just going to be me….
YAY!!! WOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! YAY!!!!
*happy dance*
((((((Big Hugs))))))
LY/MI *mwuah*
Was that close to guarded? 😀
Karen G
I’m so so glad to hear the tests all came back really good. It’s a start in the right direction, and I hope your appointments next month all continue in that direction!
Kelly Booth
I understand the optimism, but glad that you at least had a sigh of relief. Hopefully it stays that way for you!
Jessica Apple
It sounds like good news. I’m hoping for all the best!
Debra
That’s great news Mike!!!
Theresa
From what I understand, the cardiac MRI is extremely precise so 47 sounds awesome to me! Way to go! I had that same MRI yesterday and will get results soon from that. I was at 35 based on the most recent echo (about 3-4 weeks ago) and had the MRI for the same reason as you – to see if an ICD is needed. Good luck to you!