This book is for people who are about to have heart bypass surgery, those who have just been through the ordeal, and those who care for a bypass patient. Based on the experience of fourteen informants, the book tells of life before the operation, the decision to have heart bypass surgery, preparation for hospital life, and recovery afterwards. It blends the patient's widely differing experiences with the surgeon's expectations, advice and technical demands, and the work of nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and other paramedical experts in the recovery from heart surgery.Most people are shocked the thought that they must have heart bypass surgery. While some feel resigned to their fate, others put on a heroic front; sadness engulfs a few, others are relieved to know what their ailment is, and some become angry. Most want to know why. As a rule, the cost of surgery and hospitalization is not important to them. They want to know if they are going to survive.Although there are signs and warnings of heart trouble, it seems that rarely do most people have much time to prepare for a heart bypass operation, and to make decisions about which surgeons and hospitals to employ. This book helps patients prepare for the operation and for the recovery by sharing the experiences of others, and by outlining the professional help and personal care that are readily available when required.