Are there any laparoscopic options for your defect, or definitely open heart needed? They've defintely come a long long way in that field, which I know can be of little comfort when you're still stressed about it.
Only piece of advice I can offer (that I haven't always been the best at) is having to be your own biggest advocate when dealing with doctors, surgeons, etc. Telling them about your symptoms (especially important in recovery) and being as detailed and truthful as possible. Sometimes you have to get a bit rude/pushy with them before they'll really hear you. May not need that level with all nurses/docs/etc. but sometimes you do.
I'm in the middle of a multi-surgery endeavour to fix a health problem, and I'm absolutely terrified of the next one. It's like this big daunting mountain in front of me that I have no interest in climbing but know I have to. And beyond is completely unknown. There's the outcome everyone's hoping for but there's also the list things that could happen.
Hang in there man.
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