Sallie Crawley talks with filmmaker Andrew Pike about his experience of open-heart surgery, the emotional and cognitive aftermath that followed, and the making of his film Pumphead.

Andrew’s surgery was physically successful, but once he returned home, he began to experience confusion, disorientation, difficulty connecting with others, and a frightening sense that something was very wrong. Despite being told that his heart was doing well, Andrew knew that emotionally and mentally, he was not okay.

This conversation explores the gap that can exist between physical recovery and emotional recovery after heart surgery. Andrew shares what it felt like to be dismissed, how being told to “snap out of it” affected him, and why finding the right psychologist made such a difference.

He also talks about the making of his film Pumphead, which brought together patient stories and professional insight to explore the after-effects of open-heart surgery. Through the process of making the film, Andrew began to understand more about trauma, post-traumatic growth, being heard, and the importance of purpose in recovery.

This is a powerful and reflective conversation for anyone who has experienced open-heart surgery, heart trauma, pumphead symptoms, emotional distress after a cardiac event, or the feeling that recovery is not as simple as being “fixed”.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Andrew’s experience of open-heart surgery
• Feeling physically repaired but emotionally changed
• The confusion, disorientation and fear that followed surgery
• Why being told to “snap out of it” can make people feel worse
• The importance of being listened to by medical professionals, family and friends
• Psychological support after heart surgery
• Andrew’s experience of therapy and why it helped
• The making of the film Pumphead
• Patient stories and shared understanding
• Trauma, earlier life-threatening illness and emotional triggers
• Post-traumatic growth after a major health event
• Why recovery can change your values, interests and sense of self
• Andrew’s draft “manifesto” for people after open-heart surgery
• The need for automatic emotional support after cardiac surgery
• The message: “It’s not you. The support exists. Keep asking until you get it.”

A gentle note

This episode includes discussion of open-heart surgery, emotional distress, trauma, disorientation, psychological support, and difficult experiences after surgery. Please listen with care and pause if you need to.

This conversation is not medical advice and is not a replacement for your own medical team. If you are worried about symptoms, your heart health, your mental health, medication or your recovery, please speak to your GP, cardiologist, cardiac nurse, pharmacist or an appropriate healthcare professional.

A message from this episode

Just because your surgery went well does not mean you should be expected to feel instantly okay.

Recovery is not only physical. It is mental, emotional and practical too.

If you are struggling after open-heart surgery, you are not weak, ungrateful or failing. You may need the right support, the right words, and someone who truly listens.

You are not alone.

Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.

Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk. 

Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here.