Bonnie
Hi Peggy & husband!!! I'm Bonnie and at age 44 I was diagnosed (April 2003) with dilated cardiomyopathy, lesions in the left ventricle, congestive heart failure and an EF of 35%. Yes, it is scary but if you strictly follow the doctors instruction regarding sodium restrictions (very, very important), weight yourself every day, keep your blood pressure down, low fat, avoid alcohol, smoking & drugs, take your medications as directed and vitamins, minerals & CO-Q10, rest as your body tells you to (I either sit down and read or take a nap), be balanced in your activities (oh yeah, don't forget to exercise as you can tolerate-walking is best, I also work out with weights - light ones so you don't add pressure on your heart) then you can minimize many of the pitfalls associated with dilated cardiomyopathy. Educate yourself as much as possible. I have been able to keep myself out of the emergency room, so far. I don't know what your lifestyle or habits are like but having this problem definitely changes how you live. At first I was scared, then I was angry, then I decided to move out of the negative and start focusing on what I do have. I find that I enjoy the small things in life more than I used to. Having the support of my husband, family and friends, and strong religious convictions helps me cope. I get very anxious feeling at times (part of the illness) and I am a little grouchy when I am tired. It's all normal. Don't be afraid to talk about your fears to someone who is compassionate and a good listener. Being the one who is sick isn't easy and depression can be a problem at times. Being the caregiver isn't easy either and the one sick one needs to be careful not to ignore their feelings so they burn out. I know I really lean on my husband for support so I try to make sure that he gets the support that he needs as well (such as some recreation and time spent with his friends so he can laugh and have fun). Life will change for both of you but if you stick together and take care of each other you can cope with this. Will you keep me posted on how you are doing?? On Wednesday this week I go to Fort Lauderdale to have a defibrillator implanted to control my arrhythmia's. My husband says that's good because now he can jump start the car if the battery goes out. We try not to take any of the set backs too seriously, having a sense of humor really helps us to cope. I hope you both do well and if you have time please let me know how you're both doing. Sincerely, Bonnie