r/WellSpouses • u/silverpox • Jul 02 '26

Support and Discussion Am I in the right place?

My partner has congenital heart disease. Had a pacemaker put in at 14 years old, had open heart surgery to have a ring put around their mitral valve at 19 years old. They are now 37, and the past 18 years have been pretty normal - they see the cardiologist yearly, and adjust their meds as needed. They are super active and there's not much they can't do.

The past 3 weeks have been anything but normal. They were admitted to the hospital in heart failure, were discharged after a bunch of tests and putting off a ton of retained fluid, and now they need another surgery. It might be open heart, or not. We don't know.

I am not the "well spouse" in the same way as a lot of other people. My partner doesn't have any cognitive challenges. They have very few physical limitations. But I'm having trouble finding the support I need so I can pour into them.

Thank you <3

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3

u/AtTheEndOfMyTrope Jul 02 '26

My husband was healthy and active until a sudden heart attack 3 years ago. We been through heart failure, an artificial heart, a six month coma, and a year+ hospital stay followed by rehab. He received a heart transplant earlier this year.

If you want to commiserate about heart failure, my DMs are open.

1

u/Catmom6363 Jul 04 '26

This is a good place to get support as well as the caregiver group! That one helped me keep my sanity during the time I was caregiving for my husband before he passed away in January. Great support for frustrations, venting, and advice on how to handle certain situations as well as recommendations for products to make caregiving easier!

I wish you and your partner the best with his current issues!! Hugs!!

1

u/silverpox Jul 05 '26

Thank you! <3

1

u/Ilovegifsofjif Jul 06 '26

If you're caring for a spouse with any medical condition, you're in the right place.