Once again I find myself apologizing for not having time to read, or comment and barely any time to update the current status with my Son. (His name is Michael and he's 41 years old)
Just prior to doing his liver biopsy on Wednesday, labs showed a potential red flag with the heparin antibody. He had been scheduled to receive the LVAD on Friday. Things were moving so fast, he hadn't had time to absorb the gravity of the situation and, while we weren't happy with the new development, giving him a little extra time was a blessing. His kids were able to get back from out of town and have been having some time to visit, while he is still able to speak to them and explain things. Until he spoke to them, they had been told very little, other than Daddy was very sick and his heart wasn't working well. I wish I had recorded his explanation, it was truly wonderful! He managed to get through it in sane, rational terms they could understand and kept it together, without falling completely apart. It was very hard on him, the panic and emotion are finally setting in. He's terrified.
He is tentatively scheduled for the surgery on Monday, pending the outcome of more extensive labs. If not on Monday, it will be Tuesday.
The entire family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. We really, really appreciate it and hope you will continue.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Here is a picture of him holding the LVAD he will be getting and another one after he got the IABP. He's even thinner now. At one point he was almost at 200 pounds, because of fluid. He's down to about 145 and has had some grooming since this photo.
Just prior to doing his liver biopsy on Wednesday, labs showed a potential red flag with the heparin antibody. He had been scheduled to receive the LVAD on Friday. Things were moving so fast, he hadn't had time to absorb the gravity of the situation and, while we weren't happy with the new development, giving him a little extra time was a blessing. His kids were able to get back from out of town and have been having some time to visit, while he is still able to speak to them and explain things. Until he spoke to them, they had been told very little, other than Daddy was very sick and his heart wasn't working well. I wish I had recorded his explanation, it was truly wonderful! He managed to get through it in sane, rational terms they could understand and kept it together, without falling completely apart. It was very hard on him, the panic and emotion are finally setting in. He's terrified.
He is tentatively scheduled for the surgery on Monday, pending the outcome of more extensive labs. If not on Monday, it will be Tuesday.
The entire family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. We really, really appreciate it and hope you will continue.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Here is a picture of him holding the LVAD he will be getting and another one after he got the IABP. He's even thinner now. At one point he was almost at 200 pounds, because of fluid. He's down to about 145 and has had some grooming since this photo.
35 comments:
(((HUGS))) to Michael, you, and the rest of the family! Having gone through my share of medical issues, I know it's hard. But hopefully his health is on the upswing and he'll get well SOON! And don't worry about us, we're not going anywhere. : )
I hope he continues to improve and walks out of there in half the time it would take an ordinary guy.
Update when you can, and know that even strangers on the internet can and do care.
(((hugs))
Don't you worry in the slightest about not being able to drop by onto anybody's blog Ms A, what's most important here is that your son gets well soon and I have a lot of faith that he will, he's way too young to go anywhere just yet!
That item he's holding up looks like something that should go under the kitchen sink, not in a human body.
What a handsome dude, what a brave man, father, son. Sending prayers and healing thoughts your way - wishing you the best outcome and recovery.
Thank you for this update MsA. Your son continues to be in our prayers. Prayers for you as his mother, his dad, wife and family as well.
God bless you all. We love you very much.
xoxo
The strong angels from Finland are there with You all as are my thoughts. I wish I could take away the pain You are feeling. Stay strong!
Prayers for Michael, his children, and to you ... I am holding my breath.
That photo of him breaks my heart! I'll be continuing to pray for sure, and my thoughts are with all of you. Hugs and love!
145 lbs!? oh my... i am so glad he got to talk to the kids and explain what is happening. i know that must have been so difficult for all...
that is quite a mechanism. i would be scared, too. i know you are all taking things one step at a time. may this next surgery be successful so his heart can get the assist he needs!
Your son and the entire family are still in our prayers. I think of you often and hope for the very best outcome possible.
Thanks for the update Ms. A. I'm sure your mind is spinning. Continuing the prayers and hoping for a safe and smooth procedure.
My heart, prayers and thoughts are still with you and your family! Your story reminds all of us how fragile life can really be AND even with all the modern medicine we have, there are still things that we don't know or understand.
You have been much on my mind, and I am glad to hear some news about your son. Continued thoughts and prayers!
Hugs,
Nellie
Gosh I thought I was keeping up with you - I am not sure what he has - but I know he's sick - and I am praying. Keep us updated. Sandie
No apologies are needed - you are doing what you need to do; be at your son's side. Definitely know, that I am keeping you all in my prayers! xo
Michael - we all, and myself, are thinking of you every day. You really are a brave, amazing man and father. The good wishes and light we are sending will help. It will!
Thank you for updating as you can, please take care of yourself too. Praying for you all!
Oh my gawd---I have been thinking of you all so much. Please accept my sincere good wishes.
My niece's husband had a heart transplant and he is totally fine now. He was only 42 at the time and he just had his 1 year check-up and the doctors are amazed at his overall good health now-----Remember---miracles can happen.
Love and prayers to you all
Hang in there
Glad to see a picture of Michael and to know his age. Bless his heart. We are praying for him constantly --and for you and the family. He's so young ---so I'm praying that he will get the help he needs and will be able to have a normal life again. God Bless all of you...
HUGS and PRAYERS,
Betsy (and George)
Ms.A, thank you for both the update and the photographs, not what you planned to be taking pictures of but he's your boy and has a strength in him and perhaps pieces of our own broken hearts will hold that contraption together until his heart heals on its own. When you say monday that would be tomorrow? Or day after?What inner strength and grace to have explained "Daddy's Heart" to your grandchildren, prayers for him and you and yours remain unceasing.
Cora I don't know LVAD's or IABP's from shinola but it can't be sunshine and rainbows.
I hold you in my prayers and thoughts and continue to pray that all of you get through this well.
((Hugs))
I am so sorry to hear this. We are sincerely praying for all good things.
Sending best wishes to Michael for a speedy recovery.
You and your family are in my prayers. Take care.
My dear Ms A and family. I am so sorry that this has happened. Please accept my heartfelt prayers and a virtual hug.
You are so strong to be able to think clearly and write. I know you have so much to handle right now. Your son is young to have heart problems, and it must be overwhelming for all of you. Continue to take good care of yourself as you support your son. My heart goes out to you all.
Our prayers continue and we hope for the best....
My hopes and thoughts are with you all...
Wishing and hoping for the best outcome..xoxo
Thinking of Michael, and praying the surgery went well yesterday if he had it, and of course today; well, every single day. Love you lots.
xoxo
thank you for taking the time to give us an update---we are continuing prayers for him--God bless you all <3
Hope all goes well. Tell him to read my blog to cheer him up.
Sending prayers and hugs to the whole family . Michael get well now ya hear.
thinking of all of you...
o m gosh..Prayers for your family, he has the best taking care of him.((hugs)) ♥
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