Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Support Group
Atrial fibrillation (AF or afib) is an abnormal heart rhythm (cardiac arrhythmia) which involves the two small, upper heart chambers (the atria). Heart beats in a normal heart begin after electricity generated in the atria by the sinoatrial node spread through the heart and cause contraction of the heart muscle and pumping of blood.
Gang,
I have to say how grateful I am to be part of this group. Thank you all for posting...it really has helped me deal with afib. The thing that brought this to mind was a buddy of mine who sent out an email the other day. This was a guy I went to basic training with back in January of 1977...so he is an OLD man! Anyway, it seems he developed afib a few weeks back, and was just sending out an email to all of his friends letting them know how thankful he was for our friendship, and basically announcing that he is dying. I just wanted to cry...it all came back to me - The incredible fear, anxiety, and depression that you have when afib first rears its ugly head...and yes, the CERTAINTY that you are going to die.
I quickly responded to his email, letting him know that in fact, he is NOT going to die, he will just have to deal with this, and do his research (he is a retired school teacher, so research should be right down his alley). I invited him to join our group...I see that he hasn't done so yet, but I certainly hope that he does soon. There is so much to learn from all you wonderful folks. I think just the knowledge that you are NOT alone is the first step to surviving this. And for some, like my buddy (and me just a few years back), being part of this group helps you retain your sanity. The anxiety that this affliction brings is sometimes worse than the physical impact of the afib, I believe.
In any case, I am saying a prayer for my old Army buddy, and thanks again to all of you for the great support and knowledge you provide.
Grateful Bill
I have to say how grateful I am to be part of this group. Thank you all for posting...it really has helped me deal with afib. The thing that brought this to mind was a buddy of mine who sent out an email the other day. This was a guy I went to basic training with back in January of 1977...so he is an OLD man! Anyway, it seems he developed afib a few weeks back, and was just sending out an email to all of his friends letting them know how thankful he was for our friendship, and basically announcing that he is dying. I just wanted to cry...it all came back to me - The incredible fear, anxiety, and depression that you have when afib first rears its ugly head...and yes, the CERTAINTY that you are going to die.
I quickly responded to his email, letting him know that in fact, he is NOT going to die, he will just have to deal with this, and do his research (he is a retired school teacher, so research should be right down his alley). I invited him to join our group...I see that he hasn't done so yet, but I certainly hope that he does soon. There is so much to learn from all you wonderful folks. I think just the knowledge that you are NOT alone is the first step to surviving this. And for some, like my buddy (and me just a few years back), being part of this group helps you retain your sanity. The anxiety that this affliction brings is sometimes worse than the physical impact of the afib, I believe.
In any case, I am saying a prayer for my old Army buddy, and thanks again to all of you for the great support and knowledge you provide.
Grateful Bill
Hwk. Yoga and everyone else has helped me keep my sanity with this monster afib. And I hope on the 18 the cardi im going to see has some good news on my cardioversion coming up. Thanks all. Love ya. Tony
Army Buddy If you are reading this, feel free to join us, ask questions or just vent your fears. This is an active group of people with a wide range of knowledge who are prepared to share their experiences to help you get through yours.
take care,
atp (across the pond)
Thank you everyone!!
-Mark
The Dr. Did the best to explain everthing but when you are in a state of shock how much to you retain and you all explain in terms I can relate to.
I will be forever grateful.
The Dr. Did the best to explain everthing but when you are in a state of shock how much to you really retain. You all explain in terms I can relate to as you have been there.
I will be forever grateful.
Thanks.
Afib is an Unpredictable condition....just when I think I have my own life with afib figured out...Surprise...it changes. Always something new to learn!!!
Everyone here is very Kind!!!!