New pacemaker

Hi everyone,

My boyfriend, who's 23 years old, is waiting to have a pacemaker fitted, after he collapsed at home 3 weeks ago. He's been in the local hospital in South Wales ever since waiting for a bed in the specialist hospital 40 miles away, where the op will be done. He was born with a murmur (which disappeared), a 2:1 heart block and AV and sinus node disease, so we knew he'd probably need a pacemaker some day, just not in these circumstances. I was just wondering if anyone has any advice on dealing with having a pacemaker so young, and just what to expect after the operation, as no-one has really told us anything, they've just given us a BHF booklet to read. Also, does anyone know if you have to wait a certain period after the op to get travel insurance? Thanks!

3 Comments

Welcome

by admin - 2007-06-24 09:06:31

Welcome to the club. I've had a pacer since 1978. My first device was implanted at age nine. I've been very fortunate. Thanks to my device, I'm able to live ahappy productive and active life. I'm optimistic your boyfriend will too!

After the surgery, he will be sore for a couple weeks, but should start to get his energy back within a few days.

Blake

Welcome!

by tcrabtree85 - 2007-06-24 09:06:44

Hi welcome you came to the right place. I am 21 and have had my pm for about 4 months now. Like Blake said that he will be sore for a while but should be able to tell a huge difference after receiving the pm. If you need somebody to talk to or have any particular questions feel free to send me a private message. I wish you guys the best of luck and will keep your bf in my prayers and also you as. Take care of yourself!
Tammy

Hello there.

by Christmmpace - 2007-06-26 02:06:58

Claire,

I'm James and I've had my pacemaker implanted a little over six years now. I got my PM at the age of 28 and I'm still here to talk about it. The biggest thing your boyfriend will need is your support and comforting words. A pacemaker can truly bring a person's hopes up or down, depending on the person. Life's not over just because you need a PM. Keep encouraging him by letting him know that he's blessed to have a second chance to a long lasting life the Lord wants to give to him.

It's nice to see a person who cares about their other half. I believe your boyfriend will be just fine. It does takes some time to get used to all the different do's and don'ts. It's always nice to see someone's other half get involve with knowing a bit more about his/her conditions. Your boyfriend should be honored to have such an awesome young lady in his life. I will pray for you and him. May all your blessings come true for the both of you. Take care of each other and God bless you both.

Christ Makes Me Pace

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Member Quotes

As for my pacemaker (almost 7 years old) I like to think of it in the terms of the old Timex commercial - takes a licking and keeps on ticking.