My son Andrew's aortic surgery thread. Please pray!

[Jennie@ifish]

Andrew, my son, is 20.

He was born with marfan syndrome, (what I have.)

He had dislocated lenses in both eyes at birth. He was born blind, and did not see until age 7 when he had surgery to put in a lens.

He has watched my life unroll as a mirror of what he may have in store for him. Eye surgeries and all kinds of surgeries... Not fun!

I had an aortic dissection three years ago. The surgery was 14 hours or so, and 6 on the heart and lung thingy. I don't think that was fun for him to see.

It was very scary, but I made it!

My heart stopped beating a couple times during the surgery, but they stripped my leg of veins when a branch of my heart ripped off in the dissection and fixed me up! :)

They replaced my entire ascending aorta with dacron and then put in a St. Judes valve, because mine was destroyed. (My aortic valve.) My descending aorta is still dissected, and the surgery to fix that is really dangerous and longer than the other kind. So, they are watching me carefully, not wanting to do it, if they don't have to.

My valve ticks REALLY loud and is very distracting, but hey! It tells me I'm alive!!! Sometimes people will look at me and say, "Your shirt is moving!" LOL... It's my valve.

When Andrew turned 18, he decided he wanted a break from the every 6 month check ups that we have on our aortas. We do this so that the docs can play the odds of when we might have a valve sparing surgery, or preventative surgery, before we dissect.

I was at 4.7 when I dissected. It was before they expected it. They usually wait until 5.0 or so. They go by how fast your aorta is growing and by how big it is.

The preventative surgery in itself is risky. 1 out of 100 or so don't make it. So, they don't just want to go in there and do it for everyone. Especially if our tissue is not normal.

Andrew was at 3.7 when he quit going at age 18. I couldn't make him go. He knew what he was chancing, too.

So, before he moved out at age 20, (for the second time... lol) I talked him into an appointment for an echo.

Here is my post on how that went:

I went to Andrew's aorta appointment with him.
I just had a feeling.... a feeling about this.

He hadn't been for a while, and finally decided to go. It was almost like a "last appointment" with Mom before he took his health concerns over.

While waiting, I asked him that awful question. "What if?"

"What if it's too big, Roo, and you are told you should have surgery now, before it dissects like mine did?"

They decide on two criteria. How big it is, and how fast it's growing.

I dissected at 4.6.

Well, I was right.

I asked Dr. Menashe how big it was. As soon as he told me "he'd get to that." I knew. :(

When he got through with the listening, he took a deep breath, and....

Explained it was 4.7. The last reading two years ago was 3.7. That's a bunch. :(

You guessed it.

Andrew is in for aortic valve sparing operation and they will replace his ascending aorta with dacron, or whatever mine is.

Ah, crap. And I said that. When I did, the doc said, "That's what I said when I learned about it." :(

You guys, this is my priority. I may have to give up ifish. I need to help Andrew, and I don't know if I can even keep it up, while I do. It's a big ordeal. It's scary. It's alot of time spent.

We don't know if we are going to go to Stanford, or stay here and get it done.

Right now, I need to rest and recover from my surgery. I was under general for four hours and my eye hurts, and I'm supposed to not be on the comp. But, I had to tell you.

Poor Roo. He was just moving out and he was so excited.

Ah, crap. I know this is the Angler's Chapel, and I apologize for using that word, if it offends some of you. It's just how I feel right now.

It's good. It's good in a way. If he can spare the valve and keep his own, then he won't have to have to be on coumadin like I am... and it may be stronger than mine, and he might be able to live without as much worry about things as I. Still, there are worrying factors, but it might be best.

That doesn't make me feel much better, though, right now.

What a roller coaster marfan syndrome is.

Pray for strength in me. I need to be strong and positive for him.

He blames me, sometimes, for having him, because I did know it was genetic. I did know there was a chance I'd pass it on. I just didn't know how serious it was, (marfan) at the time I became pregnant. No one told me. Even so, I do guilt about it.

He didn't ask to be born with marfan. I should have been better educated on it.

Ah, crud. I need to take a nap.

I just had to ride home in a car with him for two hours without crying. I wanted to, so badly, but even worse, needed to be strong for him.

He's gone now. May I cry? It's a big, scary operation. :(
Today I found out that Andrew will have a telephone appointment with his surgeon to be, Dr. Song, on Friday at 9:00 AM.

We are still trying to decide on Stanford, or OHSU. Both are really good.

We are going to do a bit of a conference call with Dr. Song, and Andrew has prepared some questions. I hope that someone is around to pray for us, during that time... wherever and whoever you are! :)

I'll update this with the history of what happened, and why Andrew needs an aortic surgery, in a bit. I'm just so tired, tonight!

[Jennie@ifish]

I found out that the surgery will take about 8 hours, if it goes well.

[wsmahan]

I will pray for you. My daughter just had heart surgery. Very minor compared to what you have going on. She was around three years old when she had hers done. I remember them giving her the sedative and in a few minutes they took her from us. It was unsettling having somone take her from us and wondering. Everything went fine, but in my mind I was thinking the worst. Praying was all I had and I will do it for you. Best wishes.

Wes

[Duckwheat]

Jenny,

Our OB/Gyn that delivered our daughter had Mafan's. He was in denial and kept backing up surgery. He passed away at 34. Both of his daughters have Marfan's.

Some people know and decide to have children anyway. I can't understand what is like to be in your shoes. I feel guilty when I am having a bad day of parenting.

I went through a career change midlife and got into health care. I feel that most people try pretty hard to do the right thing. Do not beat yourself up to much. We are all given some burden or cross to bear. Sometimes the loads don't look fair.

I have seen the notes in the past to you in support of the trials you have been through. You have a fair umber of people thinking of you and hoping for the best.

Wishing you and your family peace of mind....

Dave

[Jennie@ifish]

wshmahon, taking them from you is the hardest!
I remember when Andrew was a child. He kept having febrile seizures due to high fever. (Like around 105!)

So, they'd do spinal taps and take him from me. All I could do is hear him scream in there. It was awful!

It's always awful when they take them, and heart surgery is NEVER easy, compared to anything. Whenever your baby is being worked on, it's never easy! :)

I'm so sorry for your OB/Gyn. That's so tragic and it makes me glad that I talked Roo into this appointment.

Funny, I kinda kept putting it off, too. I'd think of it, and then quickly forget it. I didn't want to know.

I think for Roo, it's finally sunk in. He has marfan. He needs heart surgery. That's a lot to swallow after being in denial for so long.

He isn't like me. Just ask him. He doesn't have to be careful! (Yeah, right.)

He had a job at Taco Time and I caught him lifting 40 pound trash cans. He's not supposed to do that, and has always promised me he wouldn't. He does! I wonder if he will continue. I hope not! I hope it's sunk in... but what a hard hit it is.

I asked him, "Roo, if you got a job and they asked you to lift something, what would you do?" He said. "I'd lift it!" I hope the answer has changed!

J

[Jennie@ifish]

I don't think... in fact, I'm pretty sure Andrew doesn't read this.

Andrew has decided he doesn't know what he believes in. (As far as God, etc.)

He was raised Christian and went to church all of his young life, so he knows. He's read the bible back and forth several times. He's very intelligent and well read.

I just wonder if something might click as he goes through this process.

Right now, he believes in all these big philosophy authors that he studied in college. He had this psychology teacher that is very intelligent and has some pretty lofty thoughts on things. Andrew is his "follower". LOL

As we all know, that is the most important thing. That's what I'm praying for as number one. I want him to know how much Jesus loves him.

I can't imagine living in a world without His love. I really can't. I almost admire people who have the strength to do it. I don't know HOW they do it!!!

Jen

[Small Fry]

:pray: For Andrew

[PapaHog]

Jen to live in a world with out hope in Christ would be more than I could stand. I see every day, many times a day God's handy work in the world but most importantly in my life. Things just don't happen the way they do without the hand of God watching over us.

I am praying for you and Andrew, praying for successful surgery and safe and complete recovery. I am also praying for the peace be with you that can only come from God.

I am also praying God's blessings flow your way today and always.:pray:

[brshooter]

Jennie,
Andrew and You were the intentions of my morning prayers as I prayed the Holy Rosary this morning.

[Grantspastor]

I'm sure he is scared, as you are. Who wouldn't be? I'll pray that the surgery will go well on his (natural) heart, and that God will apprehend his (spiritual) heart

[CGRFish]

Jenny, one of my favorite verses is James 1:2-4. " Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish it's work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking any thing."

One thing I will always wonder about is why some people, like yourself and Andrew, are given such heavy challenges, but at the same time it is great to realize that facing those trials helps bring you closer to our Saviour. Keep the faith, and know that the Lord is working in Andrew's life...

I will continue to pray for you both. :pray::pray::pray:

Mark

[Grizzly II]

Praying for you too Jennie. And for the Doctors.
Rod

[DAB]

:pray::pray::pray: For Andrew and you.
As a parent my :throb: goes out to you in all you are going through.
Keep the faith.
DAB

[fishnwHim]

I'm sure he is scared, as you are. Who wouldn't be? I'll pray that the surgery will go well on his (natural) heart, and that God will apprehend his (spiritual) heart

An awesome prayer, I will join you in this prayer for Andrew, and throw in a few for Jen !!! :pray::pray::pray:

[CATCH AND EAT]

I'm sure he is scared, as you are. Who wouldn't be? I'll pray that the surgery will go well on his (natural) heart, and that God will apprehend his (spiritual) heart


I like that GP. Jen we are all praying for Drew.

[Jennie@ifish]

Oh my gosh, you guys. I'm freaked again!

Something is going on. I have news, but I don't know what news it is.

Either,

A., the echo on Andrew was wrong,

or

B., the echo was right and it's very serious.

Here's what happened.

I spoke to Andrew, and he wanted me to call Dr. Craig Miller who is the expert first-choice surgeon for marfan valve sparing surgeries. (http://stanmed.stanford.edu/2003Summer/heartfelt.html)

When I went to Stanford, there was a lady by the name of Sunny Pellone (http://www.stanfordhospital.com/clinicsmedservices/coe/heart/diseasesconditions/marfan/makeanappointment.html) who is the marfan center coordinator. She is very good, knowledgable, etc... but is not a doctor.

Anyhow, I told Sunny about andrew's growth in his aorta. That it had grown 10 mm from 3.7 to 4.7 in two years and she immediately interupted me to say, "No way! I don't believe it! No way!"
I said, "Huh?" Cuz, Dr. Menashe who read it is very, very good. I told her that and she said, "Yes, he is very good. You have two of the best." (Meaning Dr. Song and Dr. Menashe at OHSU.)
Anyhow, she said "That is a huge amount! If he has, then he should be in surgery now." Or something like that. She went on to say how hard these are to read and that perhaps they were misread. But.. you guys, they don't misread these, that I know of. There is a margin of error of 2 to 3 or so, but not that much!

So, if he has grown that much, then we need to be very concerned, and why aren't we in surgery, right now? Why hadn't they taken another one to make sure it's 10 mm? Why isn't there a question even posed? Dr. Menashe, if he felt that there was a possibility of error, would have asked to have another one. He's smarter than to not ask for one, if there was that risk of error... wouldn't he? Yes. I have to think so.

My heart is just pounding. I didn't realize that this was such huge growth. I'm scared, now... scared to have Andrew even move if it's growing this fast. Should I be?

I don't know what to do. I'm a mess.

What do you think?

Andrew wonders now, if there is an error. I think he's getting his hopes up that it is, and this is all a big mistake... you know? I hate to let him down if it's not and I hate to scare him. I mean... I want him to have hope, but...

So, anyhow... Sunny has ordered the 2 scans from OHSU, so that they can take a look. They kept saying, "I want to see those scans. (echoes)." As if she were saying, "Prove it!" The echoes will be Fed Exed to Stanford, tomorrow.

But... I don't know... I've been on the phone all afternoon and I don't feel good about everything right now.

[Jennie@ifish]

Andrew was moving his futon mattress and I nearly freaked out. Drop that! Put your hands up! LOL...

He really shouldn't be doing that!

But, another thing... Sunny DID say that Dr. Song is the best in the United States, so that makes us feel better, should we stay here for surgery.

Tomorrow at 9:00 AM we will talk to Dr. Song, here at OHSU. I wish the hours would pass soon!

[Jennie@ifish]

Oh, my. I am just full of conflicting feelings. I have no clue how to feel?

Dr. Menashe just called. He heard that Millie (his receptionist) was Fed Exing the echoes to Stanford and why.

So, he began to consider that perhaps he should not totally trust the people reading the echoes, and see for himself what measurement he gets. So, out of breath, he calls me and says, "Jennie?" I think he had been running to do things. Perhaps from home to the office? I don't know!

Anyhow, turns out that he took the measurements himself this time and he didn't get 4.7!!! There was no 10mm growth!

You measure the aorta at several different points, I guess. Anyhow the least he could get was 3.94 and the most he could get was 4.3!

So... if it is the least area that it was measured from it is only a growth of .2 and if it was the biggest, it is 6.0. If it's 6, that's STILL hefty, but whether he needs surgery or not, I just don't know?

We are going to find out tomorrow, I guess. Instead of calling on the phone, we are driving in.

Sheesh. Dr. Menashe apologized profusely. But... what if I hadn't of asked??? I'm just blown away.

[Jennie@ifish]

The more I think about this, the weirder I find it.
Would they have just done surgery... and what if something didn't go right and we did all that because of the 10mm original diagnosis?

Isn't that scary?

They would have done a ct before the surgery, sure... but that's a whole different set of numbers, criteria, base line measurement...

Just blows me away. What if I wouldn't have had spoken to Sunny?

[DAB]

PM Sent
Still praying
DAB

[Jennie@ifish]

Well, we spoke.

Prayers for Andrew, please as he makes this difficult decision. As a friend wrote me, "I don't think I could make that kind of decision at 20."

No kidding!

Dr. Song says that generally, he can do either of the following options.

If he can't live with not knowing, if he can't sleep nights, not knowing how safe he is and worries about dissection, then it is certainly reasonable for Andrew to have surgery. They are keeping with the 4.3 measurement from 3.7 and saying that their cuttoff for him is 4.5. He is 2 away from that. Cuttoff is usually 5.0, but they are considering family history. I dissected at 4.6.

Now, if they would have had an every six month history, then they'd know better what to do. (Lesson learned, Andrew!) They don't know if he grew 1 (cm?) every 6 months, or didn't grow for 3 6 month intervals and then shot up. If he '"didn't grow" and then shot up' theory holds true, then he SHOULD have surgery. If he grew 1 every 6 months were true, then they'd feel alright with his growth, knowing that that was normal slow growth. But, due to the fact that he skipped 2 years of echoes, we just don't know which was the case.

So, option one is to wait three months and to have an echo to see if he's further grown and if so, how much. That would tell them if he should have surgery, more clearly. He would also still be insured. (He's only insured for another 6 months, which is a huge factor in all of this, also.

Option two is to go ahead and just have it, so that he can sleep nights, and so that he doesn't have to worry about this so closely, after the surgery.

I have another migraine. I have had one every day this week. I can't stand it!

[Jennie@ifish]

Andrew has made his decision.

He's going to go ahead and move to Portland and wait the three months out, unless his mind gets the best of him.

At three months, he'll return for another echo and decide then, by if he's grown further. He is only 2 cm away from having to have this surgery, so it will have to be done this year, most probably. I don't know why he isn't just doing it, but it's his choice.

I have to be OK with that, even though I personally disagree.

The doctors are all for this decision and they think it's fine.

HOWEVER... I have sent the scans to Stanford for a second opinion. They will know for sure what to do. No iffy wishy washy.

When I hear from them, I will update you, just since this is an interesting story.

Dr. Menashe keeps profusely apologizing and I do feel sorry for him for this. He must feel, and tells us he feels awful for putting us through this.

Doctors are human. And they do get all excited, (not in a good way, but in a medical way) when they find something like this and have a chance at saving someone's life. I think this is probably what happened. They were so shocked by it, that they took immediate action. I'd rather have them do that, then to relax and be ho hum about it. You know?

So... Andrew will wait.

Jen

[Don Becker]

'Still :pray::pray::pray:ing. Don

[Lou]

:pray::pray::pray::pray::pray:

[X'deyes]

Prayers for Andrew and you!

[Poindexter]

Prayers for peace and strength for you, Jennie, and for healing for you and your son.

[eyeFISH]

I just read this for the first time, Jennie.

All things considered, I believe Andrew chose wisely. The next scan will reveal a lot and settle the uncertainties stemming from a lapse in previous scans.

Take a deep breath... RELAX... don't worry, be happy.... he's got a few months reprieve before any major decisions must be made, and he'll still have coverage when the ultimate decision beckons.

[Jennie@ifish]

OK, you guys. It's time to pray!

Andrew is supposed to have his echo on Thursday. This echo will tell how fast his aorta is growing and they will decide when to have surgery to replace his aorta with dacron and hopefully save his natural valve so that he won't have to take coumadin forever, like I do.

Due to other problems he is having, I don't know if he'll make it, or skip it. :( I'm so praying he will go!!!

He's in one of those troublesome stages, and I can't make a 20 year old do anything he doesn't want to. :(

He HAS to go, though! He just has to find out! I mean, what if it's really grown large, again?

Ever since we found out about this growth in his aorta, he has been having life struggles and going a little crazy. I don't really blame him. It's an awesome thing to have to swallow and I don't think at the age of 20 I would have done very well with this news. :( Poor kid. :(

He is in that "I'm never going to die" stage... what's that called? Invincible? Immortal? LOL... That song just hit me, "I am young. I am invincible... I am woman!" Except, er... he's a guy!

Anyhow... I want to go with him and I need prayer to know what to say and to be calm and understanding, and... and...

I'm just so afraid!

I just pray to our Heavenly Father that if and when the surgery has to happen that I'll be good for him and that I'll know how to comfort him and most of all, that it will go alright. Did you hear me, Father? Please, Lord?

I'm just SO nervous about it. :( I love him. No matter what.

Jen

And PS, Thank you, Lord!

[Ryan Pultz]

You got it We will be praying rp

[DAB]

:pray::pray::pray::pray:
DAB

[brshooter]

Gini and I are praying. :pray: :pray:

[CGRFish]

Praying for both of you! :pray::pray::pray:

[Jennie@ifish]

Thank you! I feel like fasting and praying. I wonder if that will help.
I've just never felt the need for prayer like I do, lately.
I'm overwhelmed with anxiety over this whole thing.
I found out he canceled his appointment. Last night I spoke to him and he promised to call and get it back, today.
I can't imagine what he's thinking! I mean, his aorta can just blow up, if he doesn't get it fixed. Does he not care? I'm just so frustrated.

[letsfish]

Praying!!

[StickFish]

I think he is playing a little of the caviler invincible teenager card.

Remember back in the day, I'm sure there was a time when you knew all the answers. As Linus Pauling once said, I've never known so much in my life as I did when I was a teenager.

Steering a teenager is much like steering a large ship with not enough power and too small of a rudder. You can't over do it.

Good luck

[ErnestE]

Having two sons in their 20's my heart goes out to you and Andrew. Life will find a way. :pray:

[CATCH AND EAT]

Jenny, Drew is in my prayers. He has to do this for himself. It is not something you play around with because you will always loose. My best wish are with you and Drew on this.

We will all pray he does the right thing.

[MsOutdrs]

I don't know if this applies, Jennie, cause I don't know your son BUT I do remember how my son was at that age. And both my kids have confirmed this in their later years. They will NOT give you the satisfaction of letting you know that they listen to your words, but my kids said they did. They want to be soooo independent. All I could do was tell them my thoughts, give them food for thought, teach them how to analyze things...the good, the bad, etc. And like you are doing, pray alot for God to guide him. God will, you know...Boys, especially, cannot "bend" to mom's advice. It has to look as though its been THEIR decision all along. (I don't know that they EVER get over that..lol) Its sure a helpless feeling, I know. At least you're not me in the praying dept...it seems I only pray when I need something. What's up with that, eh? lol All of our thoughts are with you and your son...no matter what either of you do, say, God wins!!!!

[Lou]

:pray::pray::pray::pray::)

[PapaHog]

Jennie I am still praying for you and Andrew. I sure hope he will get the tests done so he will know the options.

:pray:

[CGRFish]

Jenny,

I too have a 20 year old, and the challenges are immense. The love we feel for them is balanced only by the need to let them make their own decisions while respecting their desire to be independent... it leaves me feeling simply helpless at times.

My good friend and pastor has been using a phrase lately "are you going to trust me with that?". He says that when we are worried and anxious, God is there, trying to take the burden, if we will let him - thus "are you going to trust me with that?"

I struggle with this, especially when it comes to my kids - I just feel it's my job to take care of them, but ultimately I know God is taking care of all of us... It comes back to the old phrase let go and let God.

I will continue to pray for both you and andrew. :pray:

[FM2]

:pray::pray::pray:

[STGRule]

Prayers for Andrew. And prayers for you.

[Jennie@ifish]

I just backed out of the mod board, because of icky fighting on ifish.

Yesterday I tried so hard to fill my life with praise and thanks and I just had to back out and not work to help the mods with all of that.

Today is the day that Andrew gets tested. I was so afraid he wouldn't be here. That he would back out, but he's home and I'm taking that little rascal to the doctor whether I have to tie him down, or not! LOL.

In all seriousness, I am trying so hard to love everything and everybody and I'm blocking all negatives from my life, right now. I just have to. I'm just going to love everyone and try to surround myself and Andrew with love and thanksgiving.

I'm still really scared, but I have to be positive about this and about everything!

Andrew will be alright. He is hoping that his test will show absolutely NO growth in his aortic measurements.

Jen

[letsfish]

He is hoping that his test will show absolutely NO growth in his aortic measurements.

Jen

That is my prayer!.

[PapaHog]

Jen that is my prayer as well. God's blessings to you and Andrew especially this day as you learn the results of the test. :pray::pray:



:flowered:

[Lou]

Jen, I have not stopped praying for both of you!
:pray::pray::pray::pray::pray:

[Pete]

I just got a call from Jennie letting us know that Andrew's aortic root measurement has shrunk enough that he doesn't need to schedule surgery and won't need to be rechecked for 6 months! Great news!

[Don Becker]

Wow. She sure deserves some good news. :meme::meme: Don

[Lou]

I just got a call from Jennie letting us know that Andrew's aortic root measurement has shrunk enough that he doesn't need to schedule surgery and won't need to be rechecked for 6 months! Great news!
:excited: Great news!:meme:

[Jennie@ifish]

It is great news! Aortas don't "shrink".

It's either a margin of error thing, or that new drug he's taking, "Losartin" is a miracle drug!

Anyhow, the fact is that he doesn't need surgery in the next six months!

Thank you for all of your prayer.
However, I still need prayer for Andrew. The stress toll that this has taken on him has sent him down some new and dangerous paths and it scares me so much!

Jen

[letsfish]

:meme:
.... and still praying!

[Fast Water]

That is great news Jennie!!

[happybrew]

Praise be to God! It's wonderful that he's making medical progress.

On the rest of it, just remember that the same God who can create out of nothing is the same God who can bring good out of bad.

Remember the story of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers? A horrible thing. But God used the bad thing that his brothers did for good, and ultimately their lives and the lives of their families were saved from famine because Joseph was able to sell them grain from Egypt. Good from bad. So have faith and hope, and never give up praying.

happybrew

[MsOutdrs]

See, Jennie...me thinks he did listen to you...just didn't want you to know it!!! lol I'm glad for Andrew AND you that the news is good!

[Katie Ann II]

Jennie, We are thinking of Andrew~ Glad things are better.

Shelly & family

[BCFISHON1]

Jenny,ive been in your shoes and last year my 18 year old had the surgery you are fearing,one year later we are butting heads like any father son relationship and you would never know he had his aortic valve replaced and only takes a asprin a day as far as meds.If you or your son ever want to discuss this with someone who has done it please contact me.I am sure you are in good hands,fear is the biggest factor,understandably.

[12244]

Praise the healing! Today is the day everyone gets a little better, one day/step at a time.

[CATCH AND EAT]

That is great news. A little sigh of relief.

[Jennie@ifish]

I am asking for prayer for Andrew.
Although he didn't have to have surgery, it threw him into a very rough spell in his life, emotionally.

He has hit a very rough and dangerous path, here and I can't help him. I think he learned that death is very real in a part of life, where normally kids um... don't think about dying.

Prayer, and our heavenly Father are the only things that may help.

Please pray for him and for our Father to watch over him.

I know that miracles are possible. I know they are!

I am honestly worried for his life.

[Bobberfan2]

I am asking for prayer for Andrew.
Although he didn't have to have surgery, it threw him into a very rough spell in his life, emotionally.

He has hit a very rough and dangerous path, here and I can't help him. I think he learned that death is very real in a part of life, where normally kids um... don't think about dying.

Prayer, and our heavenly Father are the only things that may help.

Please pray for him and for our Father to watch over him.

I know that miracles are possible. I know they are!

I am honestly worried for his life.

[CGRFish]

Jenny,
I'll be praying for you and Andrew. :pray::pray::pray:

Mark

[veilside180sx]

My little brother had aortic surgery at 7 wks old at OHSU. He's 19 now and doing great.

Things have evolved a lot since he had his surgery done, at least I would certainly hope so.=)

His chances of survival are a whole lot higher, having the surgery than w/o. It's certainly tough to go through for both patient and family though.

Hope for the best for you guys.

[PapaHog]

Jennie I am praying for Andrew. I am also praying for you as you support your son. God is good and able to heal all ills. Blessings to you both.:pray:

[brshooter]

Jennie,
Gini & I will keep Andrew in our prayers. You too.

[Troutinator]

we'll pray for you both tonight. peace and comfort for you; strength, wisdom and God's guiding hand for Andrew.

[Fast Water]

Jennie - Your strength and spirit for life will guide his choices.

:pray:

[Jennie@ifish]

Since Andrew learned about his heart problem, I have to tell you that he has had a tough life. (His own decision!) He pretty much went wild on life and took the wrong path. :(

He's on the upswing, and living at home again. (sigh. :) ) Don't get me wrong... He's a pleasure to have around, as far as his cheerfulness, but it's been a tough time for both of us.

Anyhow, today I am taking him to the doctor. It is time to find out again about his aorta. We were supposed to wait and then go back in three months to see if it has grown. Frankly, if I didn't make him go, he wouldn't go. He is late, as it is.

He's in total denial about it. So weird... it's like it doesn't exist, unless I do something about it. I just can't let him die, knowing full well that the consequences are so dire. It happened to me.

So, today is the day. He has not been taking care of himself, and I fear the worst.

Today is his echo, and tomorrow we'll find out what we are going to do, if anything.

Please pray for Andrew.

I can understand it's a pretty heavy thing to consider the consequences of a serious illness at 21. I just wish that he'd 'get it' and take care of himself better.

Jen

[Grantspastor]

I'll pray for him...

[letsfish]

Praying for 'Drew and you also-caring mom's need all the prayer they can get!

[brshooter]

:pray: :pray: for Andrew and for you.

[jokester]

:pray: :pray:

-jokester

[Troutinator]

Andrew prayers being said...

[Jennie@ifish]

Not great, boys and girls.

Andrew is with me so won't go into details cuz I don't want him to be afraid...

His aorta measures 4.5 !!

That is nearly what it wwas when they were to do surgery.


J

[CATCH AND EAT]

I'm sorry to hear that Jennie. My prayers are that he will realize he has a serious situation and he needs to take care of it. Be strong for him Jen.

[Jennie@ifish]

I am. He doesn't like that it's grown at all, but we'll see what happens next. Need huge prayers for exactly that. It's his decision, but if he doesn't choose surgery, I'm afraid I'm not going to be very understanding. Not choosing surgery is choosing death, from what I can see from here.
I do understand the fear, but... I dunno.
We'll just see.

[Newbs]

You are a gifted person Jennie. Your words express your feelings and give support to more people than could ever be measured.

I know that right now you are giving that same support, along with unconditional love, to Andrew. That is a combination of healing powers that transcends medical science.

Our prayer for God's blessing is with you.

Stay strong.

Jim

[DAB]

:pray:

DAB

[Don Becker]

:pray::pray: Don

[Poindexter]

Prayers for you and your son, Jennie.

[PapaHog]

Always praying for you and Roo. :pray::pray:

[CGRFish]

Praying for both of you :pray::pray:

[brshooter]

Prayers sent from both Gini and myself.

[Jennie@ifish]

Thank you.
Sure enough, our great Dr. Menashe thinks 'it's time" to do the surgery.
Poor Roo. I just feel so awful for him.
I know it's the right thing to do and all, but man... just when he gets his feet back on the ground, someone swipes it out from under him.
It was just one year ago this month that he lost his vision, again. That was tough on him. Although he sees well enough to drive now, he's still challenged in one, and blind in the other.
Now, just one year later, he's back in surgery and this time for a biggy!
I'm being positive, but just here between you and me and this forum, I feel down about it. I need prayer for good cheer.
I'm fine around him, but when he leaves, I'm bummed.
He's scared and so am I, frankly.
It's a 8-10 hour surgery, I guess.

Here's an article by Dr. Miller, (http://stanmed.stanford.edu/2003Summer/heartfelt.html) who will be doing his surgery, should Andrew choose to go to Stanford, where they do several of these tricky things.

It was written a long time ago, though... but he sure is good.

I'm tired. I'm tired of stress, too! :)

Jen

[fisher guy]

Prayers for both of you> :pray::pray:

[TroutGirl]

My prayers for strong resilient bodies, courage, peace, and that you both can have the experience of the love & beauty of God all around you.

I'm so sorry I missed this thread and didn't realize all that you've been going through.

There is so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. You and Andrew will be in my prayers. Life & love are precious miracles. The doctors that heal those we love, that is an amazing thing. All of these will be in my prayers.

Heather

[Drachir]

Our prayers for strength and hope to both you and your son. :pray::flowered::angel::pray:

[Jennie@ifish]

argh. Can you please pray that Andrew finds his cell phone? :bigshock:
Sheesh!

You know how when you are stressed out, God has little bonus tests for you, along the way? What's that all about? :laugh:

So, last night he went to tell his friends and get some comfort from them.

He lost his flip movie camera, after taking videos of his friends. :( He was just heart broken when he got home.

Today? It's his cell phone. He went to go get glasses at the doctors so that he can get a job that requires him to see. (Duh!)

His insurance won't pay for any of it! And then... he left his cell phone on the top of the car, and drove off! (He thinks...)

Regardless, two expensive lost toys in two days.

Man, oh... man.

And of course, I live his stress, trying to find it, fix it, etc.!

I'm just a bundle of nerves. I keep trying to be so calm for him and inside I'm jangled. I keep telling him, "Honey.. it's just stuff. Don't worry!"

So, here is Bill and I, walking in front of the car searching, while Andrew drives it slowly down the road, providing light for us to search in the dark. It was nearly... not quite, but nearly comical!

The ironic part in all of this is he can't see well to search for them. neither can I!

He has NO money and can't afford to replace either.

Oh, Lord! We thank you for our lives. For the many blessings that we have. But, God? We could use just a tiny break, whenever you have a moment!

If anyone finds a cell phone on Kilchis River Road... DIBS! That's Andrew's! :D

Amen.

[jadams244]

I am asking for prayer for Andrew.
Although he didn't have to have surgery, it threw him into a very rough spell in his life, emotionally.

He has hit a very rough and dangerous path, here and I can't help him. I think he learned that death is very real in a part of life, where normally kids um... don't think about dying.

Prayer, and our heavenly Father are the only things that may help.

Please pray for him and for our Father to watch over him.

I know that miracles are possible. I know they are!

I am honestly worried for his life.


Jennie, I had no idea as I'm new to this Ifish thing. Sounds like you are going through some tough times. I remember years ago when our daughter was born 2 1/2 months premature, we were told, I think by me father in law, that people elsewhere has it worse. Remember that God will not give you a cross greater than you can bear. You and yours are in my prayers, and that is the most powerful thing I can give you now.:pray::pray::pray::pray::pray::pray::pray:,ven days a week. Jerry

[HOGGEMIN]

Prayers sent............................:pray::pray::pray:

[Jennie@ifish]

What a blessing!
Listen to all of these great stories of this valve sparing procedure!
Well, most of them are uplifting, anyhow! :) There are always situations like mine where the surgery isn't as smooth... but Andrew is young and strong! Thank you, Lord!

These are all from my marfan support group.

Hi Jen,

I'll try to help with some of Andrew's questions. James had the same surgery at Hopkins on December 14, 2005 when he was 18. Who knows? They might end up having it on the same month and day.


*I think Andrew's goal of the concert in April is not unrealistic at all. James said he was not in nearly so much pain as he had anticipated. Typical stay in the hospital is five to seven days. James stayed ten days due to some slight problems shortly after the operation and some extenuating circumstances. The pain was gone completely in about three weeks with the worst of it over in a few days. The worst was musculoskeletal pain in the bak of his neck and shoulder area which the cardiac nurse said is common in young males. If this happens, try moist heat. We used a towel but a water bottle would work and I'd bet maybe that Thermo-care (sp) would be great. He was back to class after his one-month post-op and everything he had done in the past was a go after 12 weeks. It takes 10 to 12 weeks for the breastbone to heal. He was on prescription pain meds for about two weeks (tapered slowly) and OTC stuff for a few more days. We had some similar concerns about addiction to the meds(boys attitudes on the subject the same)--turned out to be no problem at all.


I've been following your posts about Andrew and I'm sorry it has taken me this long to reply. Feel free to get in touch with me on or off list. I'd be happy to help in any way I can. I remember the fear and anxiety before and during; and the relief when it is over.


You all will be in my thoughts and prayers.


Debbie
in Wild Wonderful West Virginia
--------------------------

Hi Jennie - I had my valve-sparing procedure done at Hopkins about 10 years
ago, I would have been about 36 then. It went very well with surprisingly
little pain. They don't waste any time these days, and they had me up and
walking down the hallway the day after the surgery. I was down to straight
Tylenol for pain management just a couple of days later, and I think I went
home on the 5th day. The most uncomfortable thing for me was trying to sleep
on my back for the next few weeks. I'm a side sleeper, but the Dr wanted me
sleeping on my back until the sternum had healed up. Also, I have lots of
night sweats after surgeries. I'm not sure if everyone experiences those,
but it helped to have a set of dry sheets that I could change during the
night if I needed to. I think I was back to work in under 6 weeks. At his
age, going to a festival in four months should be no problem.
Three tips I remember: 1. After they remove his breathing tube, Ice chips
are a godsend!
2. Bring pillows for the ride home. He can hold them against his chest
during the ride and it helps alleviate discomfort when hitting potholes.
3. Getting outside and walking a little more each day (with another person!)
really helped boost my spirits during the months following the surgery.


Best of luck to Andrew,
Bryan Jones
Milwaukee, WI
--------------------------------------

Jen, Our son is 21 and he had the valve sparing surgery when he was 16. We were planning our family vacation the week after he was home from the hospital and we thought we would have to cancel but the doctors gave us the go ahead and he was fine! If he would like to email Chris, please contact me off list and I will give you his email. Chris would not mind sharing any of his experiences. Overall recovery went very well and quickly for him. Cindy _______________________________________________ Marfan-List mailing list Marfan-List@marfanlife.net
----------------------------
Jen,


I added some content to Jeanette's Marfan wiki that you (and anyone
else having surgery) might like to look at:


http://www.marfanlife.net/wiki/pmwiki.php?n=Main.TipsForSurgeries


You also might want to look at Adam Pick's book The Patient's Guide
to Heart Valve Surgery. Pick had the Ross procedure done, so his
surgery was different from ours, but his book is a pretty good
step-by-step description from the patient's perspective.


Craig Miller did my Tirone David 5 valve-sparing aortic root
replacement and simultaneous mitral valve repair at Stanford a year
ago. And he did a fabulous job. But while surgery is free of mishap
for most people -- thank goodness -- in some cases there are
complications. Like mine. My aorta dissected at the start of my
surgery before I was on heart/lung bypass, and my heart was severely
fibrillating at the end of surgery some 12 hours or so later. I was
placed on an LVAD overnight and required another surgery the next day
to wean me off it. Then I developed hypoxia and was on full life
support for 10 days or so (exactly a year ago right now I was in a
coma). It was several weeks before I got out of hospital, and I
could not talk for 4-5 months afterward because the nerve to my left
vocal cord was damaged (it wraps around the aorta). A bunch of my
hair fell out, I lost about a quarter of my body mass, I had to do
physical therapy in order to walk afterwards, etc. It was rather
harrowing for everyone involved.


My point in bringing this up is not to frighten anyone but just to
point out that while most people are up and on their feet in hours or
days -- again, thank goodness -- some have more complications and
require more time before they are discharged. And, I still have
chest pain that never went away after my surgery. But overall I feel
much better now and I'm confident I'll be in good shape for years to
come.


That said, I think Andrew will probably be able to make it to
Coachella. He might want to put some thought into his sleeping
arrangements though because he may have some lingering pain that
could be exacerbated by rough sleeping conditions. And, of course,
it will be very important to stay on his medication regimen and to
have amoxicillin handy in case he gets cut or scraped and needs to
take it. You know, the usual....


Best wishes,


-paul


Hello!


I saw your note in the Marfan's newsletter today and though I may be in a unique position is order to provide some helpful information. Sadly, I didn't journal anything about the experience, but in retrospect I wish I had.


I had valve-sparing aortic root replacement when I was 18 (I'm 25 now), a week after I graduated high-school...I figure the age difference isn't TOO great and I can still share what will hopefully be a very similar experience.


In late 2001, I went to emergency room with bad chest pain. Eventually, it was determined that I had pneumonia and it wasn't anything more serious than that (pretty scary that us Marfan's patients can say that). However, after all the tests in the hospital, they told me that my aortic root was approx. 60 mm in diameter. The realization that open-heart surgery was now imminent was quite sobering at the time. In the end, the doctors at the hospital misread my exams and the situation wasn't quite as dire, and we scheduled surgery for the following June (June 5th 2002.)



The days leading up to the surgery were as stressful as you think they are going to be. I figured I would let everyone else do the worrying for me, and a certain sense of calm washed over me. Everything before the surgery is still very vivid in mind..


Here comes the good news. After surgery (which was extremely successful), I was ready to leave the hospital in 2 days. I went in on a Wednesday afternoon and by Friday afternoon I was telling the doctors to let me go. The pain was not as bad as I expected (especially compared to lung surgeries I had the previous year). Coughing is nearly unbearable, deep breaths aren't particularly pleasant, but there was never any constant extreme pain. I was out of bed on Friday, walking up and down the hall in order to prove how good I was feeling. On Saturday morning they told me that they saw no reason to keep me in the hospital anymore. A few more days of Tylenol after that to control pain.


I don't remember the long list of activities and the time period when you can start doing them again (ie no driving for 6 weeks, etc), but I went home that Saturday and immediately walked up a flight of stairs without any problems. There was about a week period where I still felt very weak, and in some minor pain from coughing (I had a heart shaped pillow to hold against my chest when I cough). I was feeling close to 100% within a month of having surgery...still some tenderness around the scar area, but nothing to be concerned with. I went off to college at the end of August feeling like my old self. That being said, I think Coachella is a great, and very achievable, goal. And if it weren't so far away (I'm in Chicago) I would be at Coachella too!


I hope that your surgery goes as well as mine did. I prepared for the worst going in, and was pleasantly surprised with the results. The physical pain was quite tolerable. This is the top benefit to having the procedure done at such a relatively young age. Our bodies can bounce back from something like this quickly. My little sister had root replacement, a valve replacement, and a surprise quadruple bypass 2 years ago. Even though her surgery didn't go perfectly, she bounce back quickly too. She spend 6 days in the hospital post-surgery. So knowing almost NOTHING of the situation, I would say it wouldn't be unreasonable to expect a 3-5 stay.


This email probably sounds very disjointed and rambling at this point, so please feel free to write back with any more specific questions you may have. I'm in the middle of writing a paper at the moment as well, so please ignore the multiple typos!


Having gone through all of this, I expect to hear great things about your surgery and DEFINITELY expect you to be in the middle of Indio come springtime.


Best wishes,


Max Wiesman

[Jennie@ifish]

By the way, Andrew badly wants to go to Coachella again. (sp?)

It's a rock festival... and he's been once before.

[feisty's wife]

:pray::pray::pray:For you all, Jennie:flowered:

[Jennie@ifish]

Andrew is going in for his MRI on Wednesday morning. This will tell the surgeon the latest on how he will approach this surgery. It might also tell why Andrew is in pain a lot.
Wednesday afternoon I go in for my every six month lease on life. :) I get my CT done to see how my aorta is holding up and whether or not I need the long heart surgery on my abdominal aorta, and also how my thoracic aorta is holding up that was repaired.

It's going to be a big day! Appointments from 8:30 in the morning, until 2:00 PM in the afternoon. Pheh!

We'll need your prayers!

[Jennie@ifish]

Off we go on another adventure to OHSU for pre surgery stuff.

Wish us luck and keep us in your prayers!

Both of us will get our aortas tested, tomorrow.

[Newbs]

Blessings to you both...

[Jennie@ifish]

Andrew's surgery will be on Monday.
It's now 4.5, so it's even bigger. There is no question it needs to be done.

I'm so stressed!

[Jennie@ifish]

This time of year should be cheery but my memories and now Andrew's surgery is making me feel differently about Christmas and the Holidays.
Wow. Four years ago, almost to the day (http://www.ifish.net/board/showthread.php?t=69200), I dissected. And now surgery for Andrew for the same thing on Monday!

I wish that I could get out of this funk I'm in about it. Maybe I'm just tired.
Jen

[Jennie@ifish]

I am praying, no matter how hard this is on me, that somehow Andrew will become closer to his Father during this time.
That's so important to me! So, so important. More than anything.

[Don Becker]

:pray::pray: Don

[Newbs]

Stay strong Jennie... Blessings to you, Andrew and his Dad. :pray::pray::pray::pray:

[Fast Water]

I'm so stressed!

Stay strong Jennie..

:yeahthat:

He will be looking to you for strength more and more as his surgery nears.

:pray::pray::pray::pray:

[CGRFish]

Still Praying :pray::pray::pray:

[letsfish]

This time of year should be cheery but my memories and now Andrew's surgery is making me feel differently about Christmas and the Holidays.
Wow. Four years ago, almost to the day (http://www.ifish.net/board/showthread.php?t=69200), I dissected. And now surgery for Andrew for the same thing on Monday!

I wish that I could get out of this funk I'm in about it. Maybe I'm just tired.
Jen
Praying for Andrew as he (i am sure)anxiously awaits surgery. He needs comfort now in a special way.
I am also praying for you as you also need comfort and wisdom/direction because of your unique relationship/experience.

[Jennie@ifish]

Dr. Song's assistant just called. You won't believe this!
They cancelled the surgery and moved it to the 22nd.

Andrew is just so bummed.

I guess I'll be changing my reservations.

He was all ready and wanting it to be over with. I'm so sorry for him. :(

[CATCH AND EAT]

Uggggg!!!!! I hate schedual changes. So sorry you will be spending Christmas in PDX at a hospital.

Will be praying for Andrew that the surgery will be a success and he will have complete healing. Will be praying for you too Jennie. Very stressful but you need to remain calm as well. Love him up and support the man. He still needs his mommy during a time like this.

[Jennie@ifish]

Yeah. It's frustrating. Andrew was really up for it and now he's very disappointed.
But, Dr. Song didn't take into consideration his partner, Dr. Slater, and he really needs to have him at the surgery, I guess.
So, the 22nd it is.

Oh well. Sigh.

[Fishin Magician]

We are saying our prayers.....:pray:

- The Barth Family

[jokester]

Prayers for Andrew that the surgery goes as planned, and prayers of comfort for you :pray: :pray:

-jokester

[Poindexter]

Continuing to pray for you and your son.

[Jennie@ifish]

Thank you, you guys.
I'm kinda checking out of ifish tonight till the surgery.
The weather is dicey, but I got a call from the nurse that it's on for Andrew, Monday.
So... now the challenge of getting over the hill.
We are praying for a Sunday departure, Christmas presents and dinner tomorrow night.
David bussed over, today to join us.
Then, off to Portland on Sunday or whenever the best window of opportunity suggests we go.

So... bye!

I'll update you!

[PapaHog]

My prayers for safe travel and successful surgery. A speedy recovery for Andrew and comfort for Mom and the rest of the family during this time.

:pray::pray:

[12244]

:pray: for strength for all of you.

[sukor lihp]

You know everyone LOVES you:flowered:

[HntnFsh]

We'll be watching for a good update.Also keeping up the prayers for all of you.

[Don Becker]

:pray::pray: for you and Andrew for a safe trip and successful surgery. Don

[brshooter]

Jennie,
Our prayers are with Andrew and all of your family. Safe travels, a successful procedure, and a speedy recovery.

God Bless.

[BlackBass]

Praying for your family! Have a Merry Christmas, and thank you for all that you do for us!

[Fast Water]

:pray:

Praying for a safe journey for you and your family.

Praying for a successful surgery for Andrew.

:pray:

[CATCH AND EAT]

Be careful out there Jen. It is a nasty drive..........if they let you cross at all.

[letsfish]

Wow! Andrew is going to have some neat memories of this when it is all over. The trip over should be very beautiful. Keeping you both in prayer.

[Jennie@ifish]

It'll be dark!
Anyhow, we are off.
Did I tell you I'm a bit nervous? :laugh:
Anyhow, will keep you updated, here.
Have a great week and be good to the moderators!

[StickFish]

It'll be dark!
Anyhow, we are off.
Did I tell you I'm a bit nervous? :laugh:
Anyhow, will keep you updated, here.
Have a great week and be good to the moderators!

You both just relax on your ride into town.

[Jennie@ifish]

If you don't think I'm depressed, you should have seen Andrew, when we got to the head of hiway 6 on the bus, and they turned us around, due to falling trees. :(

He had to get off the bus to get sick. :(

I have never seen anyone more traumatized in my life. Seriously.
This is the sixth time he's had to put this surgery off. You know, get ready for it, and then have it be canceled. I'm SO glad I didn't post on the front page that we were going.
All day long, highway six has been open until the MINUTE we drive up. I guess it's for a reason that only God knows, but it has to be for the best. Some reason that we don't know.

They just closed it minutes before we got there.

So, the bus driver was so kind and was going to take us through hiway 30, but his boss wouldn't let him. :(

I'm just so sad for Andrew. I don't know when surgery will be, now, but I have to call the inn and the surgeon and let them know.

I STILL half wonder if we could make it... somehow.

I feel like just getting in the car and going. To heck with it. Just drive myself. LOOKOUT EVERYONE! BLIND DRIVER ON THE ROAD!

Jen

[Jennie@ifish]

Oh, and then they dropped us off at the bus station and it's pouring down rain and I can't call home for Bill, cuz the phone lines were down. Couldn't call a taxi, either! LOL

So, these nice people that we didn't know who also were stuck took us home. Nicest people, too. They own a motel in Netarts. Stay there! they are SO nice!

[HntnFsh]

Man, Jennie,you guys have had 1 tough row to hoe.
I'm sure you remember our pm about there is a reason for everything God does.So we know there is a reason for this.
Sure would be nice to know what it is,RIGHT NOW, though,wouldnt it.

So sorry to hear of Andrews ordeal.I couldnt imagine how hard this is on him.And the rest of you too.

I'll continue to pray for everything to work out.:pray:
God Bless you all.

Rick

[Jennie@ifish]

It seems alright for me, right now. We are safe. We are in a lot better shape than some people, for sure! I keep thinking about those cold people all stuck all over the place!

Anyhow... praise God that we are safe and bummers are bummers... we'll get it done!

Night night and thanks for listening to me stress!

[Fast Water]

I am very sorry you and Andrew could not make it.

But I'm very happy you two are safe!!!

:excited:

[MsOutdrs]

Was thinking about you and Andrew, Jennie, and wondering if you were safely in Portland. We lost power yesterday morning and finally power was restored at 3am..(knew that cause our bedroom light came on..what a shocker). Yes, my experience has been there is always a good reason why things happen the way they do, even if its not the way we want. What an ordeal you two have been through trying to get this surgery over and done. A real test of your faith! My best to you both and I hope you can put it to rest temporarily so that you both can have a wonderful Christmas. Easier said then done, I'm sure. Your IFish fan club are all behind you two..what a support group. Take care and here's hoping for the next segment of this to be wonderful news!

[TroutGirl]

Praying for smooth surgery and speedy recovery.

[HOGGEMIN]

Sorry for Andrew as this has to be so hard on him but keep him strong and it will happen soon in due time. Enjoy Christmas together and enjoy.... :flowered::flowered::flowered:

[Jennie@ifish]

Andrew's surgery will be January 5th. hold on! It's crazy time, again!
Here we go on the countdown! Blood work and echoes and EKG's OH MY~

(And an extra CT for Jennie, just in case!)

ICK!

My last CT, they put the dye in and I kept waiting for the machine as the dye went through me. I waited, and I waited, thinking... "Something is wrong, here!"

Well, the machine died. So, now I'm' full of radiation and all for no reason! LOL

REDO.

:) I got a free lunch ticket out of it!

Thank you for your prayers. I have a site I'm working on for Andrew's surgery progress and updates I can post from my iphone. I will post it here, soon.

Jen

[PapaHog]

You guys are very much in my prayers. God's comfort and peace be with you during this time. :pray::pray:

[Don Becker]

:pray::pray: that He will make it all work out, Jennie and Andrew. Don

[Jennie@ifish]

For all of you that want to follow Andrew's surgery on Monday, my wordpress site for him is http://www.ifish.net/andrew

Let me know, please if you can all read it. I did some test posts.
It's really cool as I can do it all from my iphone, including pictures... although I don't think you want heart surgery pictures on here!

Yikes!

Jen

[Jennie@ifish]

...as some of us well know, and Diver reminded me, don't ANYONE tell him about the Foley Catheter!!!!

That is the WORST part of the whole thing! LOL

[spinnergal]

For all of you that want to follow Andrew's surgery on Monday, my wordpress site for him is http://www.ifish.net/andrew

Let me know, please if you can all read it. I did some test posts.
It's really cool as I can do it all from my iphone, including pictures... although I don't think you want heart surgery pictures on here!

Yikes!

Jen

Jen-
It works perfectly & we'll be checking in & keeping you all in our thoughts & prayers.

SG:flowered:

[fishnwHim]

Jen, Andrew and you will be in my thoughts and prayers through this time. :pray::pray::pray::pray:


Dave

[jokester]

Jen, Andrew and you will be in my thoughts and prayers through this time. :pray::pray::pray::pray:


Dave

Ditto :pray: :pray: :pray:

-jokester

[brshooter]

Jennie,
Gini and I are praying that all goes well for Andrew tomorrow.

Lord protect Andrew during his surgery. May he make it through safely. Guide the physician's hand that he may be able, with Your help, to heal Andrew of his affliction. Comfort, Lord, the whole family and all who are suffering from worry and anxiety. Amen.

We will be following your posts.

[Jennie@ifish]

What an awesome prayer to go to sleep with!
Thank you!
I'm taking that one to bed :)

[HntnFsh]

Were praying for all of you.:pray:

[Newbs]

Blessings, blessings and more blessings sent your way...

[CGRFish]

Jenny,

Many, many prayers for Andrew, the Surgeons, and for you - Hang in there mom, God will bring you through. :pray::pray::pray:

[CATCH AND EAT]

Praying for successful outcome.

[Fast Water]

:pray::pray::pray:

[Newbs]

Still have Andrew in our prayers. Hope all turns out well. Blessings sent your way.

[Gundog]

I am praying all is well for you and Andrew Jennie.

:pray::pray::pray::pray:

Mike

[Jennie@ifish]

Hi you guys. Just spoke to the icu nurse. I just passed out after eating a hearty meal of Top Ramen. LOL
He is in a lot of pain now.
I can't sleep!
Just posted on the blog.
Wish I could help him but morphine is probably the best for him.
Couple more hours and I'll go back.
Jen

[letsfish]

:pray::pray::pray:Praying!:pray::pray::pray:

[happybrew]

:pray:

[DAB]

:pray::pray::pray:

[Fish'n'Metal]

Count my prayers in! Best of luck. Stay positive and I'm sure everything will turn out well. Bless you all.

[jokester]

Still :pray: :pray: :pray: for Andrew and you!

-jokester

[Fossil]

Your family is in our prayers.

[Gundog]

Thanks for posting the link to his blog I feel like part of the family being able to keep up with his progress.

:pray::pray::pray:

Mike

[Lou]

:pray::pray::pray::pray::pray::pray::pray::pray:

[Jennie@ifish]

I think all of you prayer has worked!!!
I do believe he's nearer to normal again!
He's been on three short walks today and has asked for less and less pain medicine, today!
Best of all, he is probably coming home tomorrow!!!

[GS1]

I pray and I weep with joy.............GS1/Keith

[12244]

Thanks to God.

[Poindexter]

God is good! Prayers for continued blessings and healing for you and your son.

[STRUTTIN-1]

God is Great!!!:pray:for you and yours.Wishing you only the best.

[Don Becker]

Great news, Jennie! :applause::applause: Don

[jokester]

:applause: Awesome news!! :dance:

-jokester

[brshooter]

Jennie,
That's fantastic news! Thanks be to God!

[StickFish]

I think all of you prayer has worked!!!
I do believe he's nearer to normal again!
He's been on three short walks today and has asked for less and less pain medicine, today!
Best of all, he is probably coming home tomorrow!!!

:meme::dance::bowdown::meme::applause::bearhug::cl ap::clap::excited::meme:

Nothing like coming home to a bowl of sugar pops and warm blueberry muffins and scrambled eggs.

[duckcall]

praise the lord!!!!!!!!!!

[PapaHog]

praise the lord!!!!!!!!!!

I agree. Praise the Lord.

[Grizzly II]

Continuing to pray for his continued recovery.