Can you say anxiety! It is 4:30 a.m. and Jason still has not slept, but has gotten some exercise through pacing.
Please continue to pray that he sleeps.
Love,
Tricia
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Recovery
Yesterday was full of every emotion. But mostly thankfulness that Jason is doing so incredibly well. My biggest job in the next coming weeks is to make sure he gets the rest that he needs. I have instruction from Sue, Dr. Balkhy's personal nurse, that he should have no phone, no computer and limited visitation in the next one to two weeks. This has already been a challenge as I see he made his own blog entry yesterday when Lauren and I ran to the pharmacy and grocery store for 30 minutes. Nurse Lauren and I asked him to sit in his chair and not move while we were gone, but when we got home he was on the computer and nurse Lauren (she is taking her roll very seriously) said, "but Daddy promised he would stay in his chair Mom". Jason will be at home recovering for a long time, so we would love to have visitors in a few weeks when he is totally bored. I hate to be the party pooper, but he does have a low grade fever that needs to be watched closely, his blood counts are low and his heart rate is high and we are still managing his pain. It is 2:30 a.m. as I write this and he has not slept yet.
Fantasy Football is of course on Jason's mind and I am sure nurse Sue would not approve.
Dr. Oesterling, Hematologist, continues to monitor his von willabrands factor closely as we need to go to TWHH, ER everyday and have his blood checked to see if he needs to receive treatments.
Like Jason said, thank you to everyone who has been so great to us and a big thank you to our neighbors too. Jason and I sometimes talk about what we would do if we won the lottery (always fun to imagine) and would we move and buy a bigger house? The answer is 'no', because you can buy your house, but you can't buy your neighbors and we love all of you so much and you make living in Kelly Pointe Subdivision a wonderful place to live and raise a happy family.
Our prayers were answered for the best possible outcome with his surgery, now please pray that he sleeps.
Love,
Tricia
Fantasy Football is of course on Jason's mind and I am sure nurse Sue would not approve.
Dr. Oesterling, Hematologist, continues to monitor his von willabrands factor closely as we need to go to TWHH, ER everyday and have his blood checked to see if he needs to receive treatments.
Like Jason said, thank you to everyone who has been so great to us and a big thank you to our neighbors too. Jason and I sometimes talk about what we would do if we won the lottery (always fun to imagine) and would we move and buy a bigger house? The answer is 'no', because you can buy your house, but you can't buy your neighbors and we love all of you so much and you make living in Kelly Pointe Subdivision a wonderful place to live and raise a happy family.
Our prayers were answered for the best possible outcome with his surgery, now please pray that he sleeps.
Love,
Tricia
Friday, August 29, 2008
One Big Sigh of Relief - and An Even Bigger Thank You
Greetings:
Today is Friday, August 29th, and I have come home. It's been an overwhelming three days since my surgery, and I'm looking forward to my recovery time.
On behalf of my wife and daughter, I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to everyone that has reach out to us over the past weeks. The amount of support we have received has been simply staggering. We will reach out to everyone individually in the coming weeks. However, for now, a nap feels like the right thing to do first.
Sleep well everyone, and thank you for your wonderful support. I will never, ever forget it.
Jason (and the entire Smith family)
Today is Friday, August 29th, and I have come home. It's been an overwhelming three days since my surgery, and I'm looking forward to my recovery time.
On behalf of my wife and daughter, I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to everyone that has reach out to us over the past weeks. The amount of support we have received has been simply staggering. We will reach out to everyone individually in the coming weeks. However, for now, a nap feels like the right thing to do first.
Sleep well everyone, and thank you for your wonderful support. I will never, ever forget it.
Jason (and the entire Smith family)
Discharged!
Jason is in the process of packing up his hospital room and will be discharged within the hour.
Look for an update from Tricia (or, who knows, maybe the man himself) later today.
Look for an update from Tricia (or, who knows, maybe the man himself) later today.
Believe it or not: Sounds like today's the day
I spoke with Jason this morning by phone and if I didn't know where he was, I would have guessed he was at work. He sounded like the pre-surgery Jason. All tubes are out at this point and it looks like he will be discharged today. Just to emphasize the point: He will be discharged only three days after having his ascending aorta and a defective heart valve completely replaced.
Jason's main complaint is that he is bored; last night he finally got that good night's sleep that he was looking for. Oral pain medications seem to be working well and he has been doing laps around the nurse's station (he needed to do one lap; he apparently did four). I think Jason is anxious to get out of the hospital as he does (after all) have a fantasy football draft to deal with this weekend. He had selected some folks to do this in his place, but I think he may end up calling the shots after all.
Frankly, I'm amazed. Amazed that 72 hours ago as I write this, Jason's chest was splayed open and he was on a heart-lung bypass machine. Three days ago his life was hanging in the balance.
What a difference three days makes. Several factors played into this: His surgical team was excellent; he had a hematologist on board to make sure the bleeding wouldn't be an issue; Jason, himself, is in great shape. Jason also thoroughly researched the different options and different surgeons and obviously made the right decision in picking Dr. Balkhy to do the surgery.
Jason still has a long recovery in front of him...my bet is that he will want to return to work sooner than he should: Let's try to make sure he stays home and recovers completely before returning back to work.
--scott
Jason's main complaint is that he is bored; last night he finally got that good night's sleep that he was looking for. Oral pain medications seem to be working well and he has been doing laps around the nurse's station (he needed to do one lap; he apparently did four). I think Jason is anxious to get out of the hospital as he does (after all) have a fantasy football draft to deal with this weekend. He had selected some folks to do this in his place, but I think he may end up calling the shots after all.
Frankly, I'm amazed. Amazed that 72 hours ago as I write this, Jason's chest was splayed open and he was on a heart-lung bypass machine. Three days ago his life was hanging in the balance.
What a difference three days makes. Several factors played into this: His surgical team was excellent; he had a hematologist on board to make sure the bleeding wouldn't be an issue; Jason, himself, is in great shape. Jason also thoroughly researched the different options and different surgeons and obviously made the right decision in picking Dr. Balkhy to do the surgery.
Jason still has a long recovery in front of him...my bet is that he will want to return to work sooner than he should: Let's try to make sure he stays home and recovers completely before returning back to work.
--scott
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Chest Tube Is Out
Dr. Sam Balkhy stopped in approximately 7:00 p.m. tonight and said the chest tube was ready to come out. They pulled out the tubes which was painful, but another step in the process to coming home. When Dr. Balkhy came he told us he had read this blog. Funny how this works and if I remember the story correctly (I am not quoting Dr. Balkhy here), the anesthesiologist (Dr. Ulatowski)'s husband was on the Internet and googgled Dr. Balkhy and found Jason's blog. The blog was printed and brought into the surgery room and they asked Dr. Balkhy if he had operated on this 37 [38] year old man and it turned out that was the surgery currently being conducted. Dr. Balkhy mentioned that what he did with Jason in surgery is the first time he put together the valve and tube on a table in the room and then grafted it into Jason (basically, the cow valve was sown into the synthetic aorta rather than sewing the valve into the patient first). He said he likes this method because it is a tighter fit.
Dr. Balkhy: I hope this doesn't bother you that we are having this blog. It has really helped our friends and family with updates and communication.
Disclaimer: This blog is not approved by The Wisconsin Heart Hospital (TWHH) and Tricia has no medical background so I apologize in advance if I mess up the words.
Thank you to Scott Smith, Jason's Brother, for making this blog possible.
I have to give a great big THANK YOU to Jason, too, for being so proactive in his health care and getting a heart scan when he felt extremely healthy. Upon learning the news almost four years ago that he would need this surgery eventually, he started his research and found the best surgeon and the best hospital to have this procedure. All his research paid off and we are all reaping the benefits from Jason's knowledge. One of the reasons he picked TWHH for the surgery was because it was a beautiful hospital and easy for visitors to get in and out. As my Uncle Bill would say, visitors should not be a reason why you pick a hospital.
Love,
Tricia
Dr. Balkhy: I hope this doesn't bother you that we are having this blog. It has really helped our friends and family with updates and communication.
Disclaimer: This blog is not approved by The Wisconsin Heart Hospital (TWHH) and Tricia has no medical background so I apologize in advance if I mess up the words.
Thank you to Scott Smith, Jason's Brother, for making this blog possible.
I have to give a great big THANK YOU to Jason, too, for being so proactive in his health care and getting a heart scan when he felt extremely healthy. Upon learning the news almost four years ago that he would need this surgery eventually, he started his research and found the best surgeon and the best hospital to have this procedure. All his research paid off and we are all reaping the benefits from Jason's knowledge. One of the reasons he picked TWHH for the surgery was because it was a beautiful hospital and easy for visitors to get in and out. As my Uncle Bill would say, visitors should not be a reason why you pick a hospital.
Love,
Tricia
Just some of the tools
Here's a picture of just some of the tools used to keep Jason alive and kicking immediately after his surgery on Tuesday, August 26, 2008.
The other side of the bed had some as well!
The other side of the bed had some as well!
Coming Home?
The doctors say Jason might come home tomorrow (Friday) or Saturday. Yikes. Now that the pain medicine is working better, his sleep is the biggest issue and the doctors say he will sleep much better when he is at home. He needs to climb a flight of stairs and get the chest tubes removed before he gets discharged.
Sorry that visitation is being limited, but I asked Jason this morning if he was up to it and he said he isn't quite ready for visitors. We appreciate every one's patience in meeting his needs. He is not too much fun to visit anyway as you can get in one or two sentences before he falls asleep. He even kicked me out, so don't feel bad.
Shout out to all the nurses at TWHH for caring so great for Jason - it really helps me sleep at night, know that you are caring for him so well!
Thanks so much for your continued support, prayers, love, good mojo!
--Tricia
Sorry that visitation is being limited, but I asked Jason this morning if he was up to it and he said he isn't quite ready for visitors. We appreciate every one's patience in meeting his needs. He is not too much fun to visit anyway as you can get in one or two sentences before he falls asleep. He even kicked me out, so don't feel bad.
Shout out to all the nurses at TWHH for caring so great for Jason - it really helps me sleep at night, know that you are caring for him so well!
Thanks so much for your continued support, prayers, love, good mojo!
--Tricia
No visitors again today (Thurs)
Jason continues to improve save for one area: He can't sleep. He is catching naps for an hour or two here and there, but still hasn't had that good sleep he's looking for.
Last night, he still had a fair amount of pain until he received a medication cocktail at about 4am. As Tricia noted last night, he's been walking and most of the tubes have been removed from his body (still one chest tube handling drainage, but the other two have been removed).
Tricia asked that he have no visitors today so that he can try to get some sleep. We will keep everyone up to date through the blog with another update later today.
--scott
Last night, he still had a fair amount of pain until he received a medication cocktail at about 4am. As Tricia noted last night, he's been walking and most of the tubes have been removed from his body (still one chest tube handling drainage, but the other two have been removed).
Tricia asked that he have no visitors today so that he can try to get some sleep. We will keep everyone up to date through the blog with another update later today.
--scott
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Better Night
Slept 30 minutes - yeah, from 7:45 p.m. - 8:15 p.m. almost more sleep than the got the whole night prior to that. Nurse, Bev, woke Jason at 8:15 p.m. to 'go for a walk'. He went around the nurses station, 160 feet without having to stop. Blood pressure was 139/78 after the walk (much higher than his resting bp but that is to be expected) and he was VERY cold, but he made it. All tubes connected to machines have been removed from his body so his room is much quieter. He still has several tubes in him, but this is easier to walk around without having to pull one or two machines behind you. Tonight they are giving him Ativan in a lose dose to help him sleep. Please pray he sleeps, he needs it. Nurses were going to let him sleep from 9:00 p.m. - 4:00 a.m. Nurse Bev, told us tonight that Jason will have more pain than people older than him because he is young and has more nerves than an older person.
Jason ate eggs for breakfast, chicken broth for lunch and almost half of a chicken sandwich for dinner.
Good Night,
Tricia
Jason ate eggs for breakfast, chicken broth for lunch and almost half of a chicken sandwich for dinner.
Good Night,
Tricia
Total Confusion / Tough Day
Day started out well with Jason taking a walk out of his room for the first time with Jeff Hohensee. But as we should expect this is a roller coaster ride with ups and downs. One of the medications did not sit well with him and caused total confusion. As a man who always likes to be in control, this did not work well. He tried getting out of his chair once and out of bed a couple times. He kept asking "what should I be doing", nothing I say, just rest. Jason tells me (not sure if accurate) that he got some morphine about an hour ago. Pain is already starting to come back and I don't think he can have more morphine for a couple more hours.
You know my high maintenance husband likes to sleep in extreme darkness and complete quiet. Kind of hard to do in the hospital, but we did our best to darken the room to include stacking a chair with a pillow and binder to block one of the big night lights. Don't tell him, but I gave him my Frederick's of Hollywood night mask to help reduce light too.
Total confusion and tough day were Jason's words. He kicked me out of here for a few hours to try to rest, but that didn't help him.
I read everything to Jason on the blog today including your comments and he loved it. I don't think he will remember any of it and I will read it to him again when he is more alert, but he did smile everything he was awake and heard me.
Love,
Tricia
You know my high maintenance husband likes to sleep in extreme darkness and complete quiet. Kind of hard to do in the hospital, but we did our best to darken the room to include stacking a chair with a pillow and binder to block one of the big night lights. Don't tell him, but I gave him my Frederick's of Hollywood night mask to help reduce light too.
Total confusion and tough day were Jason's words. He kicked me out of here for a few hours to try to rest, but that didn't help him.
I read everything to Jason on the blog today including your comments and he loved it. I don't think he will remember any of it and I will read it to him again when he is more alert, but he did smile everything he was awake and heard me.
Love,
Tricia
No visitors tonight (Wed) please
I just spoke with Tricia and the hospital has asked that Jason not have any visitors tonight. Apparently, so many people have been coming to see him and Jason (being the polite guy he is) has been trying to stay awake and talk with everyone.
As a result, he is wiped out.
To give him a bit of rest, he needs a bit of alone time so he knows it's ok to rest. As Tricia mentioned earlier, he's having a good deal of pain today. That likely has to do with the fact that he has been switched from morphine to Percocet.
Hopefully with a little rest, he will feel better.
Tricia will call me with an update tonight (or post an update herself). Stay tuned.....
-scott
As a result, he is wiped out.
To give him a bit of rest, he needs a bit of alone time so he knows it's ok to rest. As Tricia mentioned earlier, he's having a good deal of pain today. That likely has to do with the fact that he has been switched from morphine to Percocet.
Hopefully with a little rest, he will feel better.
Tricia will call me with an update tonight (or post an update herself). Stay tuned.....
-scott
Pain Management
Lots of pain.
Dr. Balkhy just stopped in (2:40 p.m.) to check on Jason. His words "you are a star." They are taking the catheter off soon and two of the three drainage tubes from his chest will be removed shortly. That should reduce his pain a little. He has moved from morphine to Percocet and now is going to take Toradol (longer lasting) for pain management. His blood count is low, but they said he can tolerate it because he is young, all vitals are good, heart rate is a little high (103 and would like it at 85), but they said he can handle that too.
Love,
Tricia
Dr. Balkhy just stopped in (2:40 p.m.) to check on Jason. His words "you are a star." They are taking the catheter off soon and two of the three drainage tubes from his chest will be removed shortly. That should reduce his pain a little. He has moved from morphine to Percocet and now is going to take Toradol (longer lasting) for pain management. His blood count is low, but they said he can tolerate it because he is young, all vitals are good, heart rate is a little high (103 and would like it at 85), but they said he can handle that too.
Love,
Tricia
Morning Update
Scott here with another update.
Jason didn't get much sleep last night. Despite attempts to medicate him into a slumber, the poking and prodding from the medical staff kept him up much of the night.
Jason has been up walking this morning and he's still pretty uncomfortable as you can imagine (try sawing your breastbone in half and see how you feel!). He has done everything asked of him, despite feeling the pain.
I am going to see him this afternoon, and will post another update after that.
Please know that we're passing along your comments on the web page to him (we do have computer access in the hospital) and he really appreciates all the support.
--scott
Jason didn't get much sleep last night. Despite attempts to medicate him into a slumber, the poking and prodding from the medical staff kept him up much of the night.
Jason has been up walking this morning and he's still pretty uncomfortable as you can imagine (try sawing your breastbone in half and see how you feel!). He has done everything asked of him, despite feeling the pain.
I am going to see him this afternoon, and will post another update after that.
Please know that we're passing along your comments on the web page to him (we do have computer access in the hospital) and he really appreciates all the support.
--scott
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Up and Walking...theoretically
Although I didn't stay for the actual festivities, the nurses were going to get Jason up at 8:00pm this evening for a walk. I'm sure this wouldn't be on the schedule if you left it up to Jason, but so far, he has done everything that has been asked of him despite any pain caused to him.
Earlier, the surgeon called to talk with the nurse and she actually put the patient himself on the phone. Jason gave the doc his vitals over the phone, causing the doctor to remark he didn't think he had ever spoken with a patient so soon after surgery.
He received some blood earlier this evening, after the docs decided there was a bit too much drainage coming out of his chest. The bleeding seemed to slow as the evening went on, so hopefully that won't be much of an issue.
As one of the nurses brought in another member of the nursing team to introduce to Jason, he popped his eyes open wide and said "HI!" he then added that "I'm trying to say 'hi' enthusiastically," before nodding off to sleep.
That pretty much summed up the evening: Watching him speak a sentence and then nod off instantly. Repeat.
Hopefully after his walk, he will be able to sleep tonight; hopefully Tricia will be able to get some sleep as well!
Earlier, the surgeon called to talk with the nurse and she actually put the patient himself on the phone. Jason gave the doc his vitals over the phone, causing the doctor to remark he didn't think he had ever spoken with a patient so soon after surgery.
He received some blood earlier this evening, after the docs decided there was a bit too much drainage coming out of his chest. The bleeding seemed to slow as the evening went on, so hopefully that won't be much of an issue.
As one of the nurses brought in another member of the nursing team to introduce to Jason, he popped his eyes open wide and said "HI!" he then added that "I'm trying to say 'hi' enthusiastically," before nodding off to sleep.
That pretty much summed up the evening: Watching him speak a sentence and then nod off instantly. Repeat.
Hopefully after his walk, he will be able to sleep tonight; hopefully Tricia will be able to get some sleep as well!
Breathing Machine / Pain
6:50 p.m. Jason got more morphine. Toradol was approved for pain by Dr. Oesterling but not here yet, so he is happy with morphine for now. Breathing is painful in the machine and he got it up to 1,000 and he was at 3,000 before surgery. They said 1,000 is great, most patients only get to 500 with a lot of encouragement. I see some of you called Jason and over achiever on your comments and those are words the nurses are using too.
6:55 p.m. Jason is asking and got more morphine.
6:55 p.m. Jason is asking and got more morphine.
6:30 p.m. Update on Jason
Jason is doing well, really enjoying ice chips and sips of water. Approximately 5:10 p.m. the amazing Dr. Sam (Husam) Balkhy (heart surgeon) called Jason's nurse, Loretto from Georgia, for an update but Jason got on the phone to tell Dr. Balkhy himself how he was doing. After the surgeon talked with Loretto, Dr. Balkhy said Jason was draining too much and they are now giving him blood.
5:20 p.m. Dr. Oesterling stopped in, said Jason was bleeding too much and they are giving him blood. von Willebrand factor is high and won't give him more until tomorrow morning.
5:50 p.m. Dr. Balkhy stops in and said Jason is oozing more than he would like and they will keep the blood coming. Said he would talk with Dr. Oesterling about more von Willebrand factor.
Jason said he feels like he got hit with a baseball bat to the chest but not as bad as a Mack truck. He has taken the morphine every time it has been offered. Jason asked me what was in his hand, I checked and told him it was his drainage tube from his chest - he thought it was a toy he was squeezing - oops. We are waiting (6:15 p.m.) to hear from Dr. Oesterling to see if he can have Toradol (a longer lasting pain medicine). Jason also keeps saying 'we did it!", which is exactly my feeling too. I could not be happier right now with the surgery itself, the care he is getting and his progress is awesome. They say he is bouncing back great because he is such a healthy person!!!!!!
Thank you to everyone for all your kind thoughts, prayers, emails, blog comments, phone calls, etc. As soon as Jason is a little more alert I will read your comments to him. Loretto says she will definitely have Jason up and walking tonight. Jason wants me to read the blog stuff now, but after one sentence he falls asleep.
Lots of love and hugs to all of you, we feel your support and it helps so much! Tricia, wife
5:20 p.m. Dr. Oesterling stopped in, said Jason was bleeding too much and they are giving him blood. von Willebrand factor is high and won't give him more until tomorrow morning.
5:50 p.m. Dr. Balkhy stops in and said Jason is oozing more than he would like and they will keep the blood coming. Said he would talk with Dr. Oesterling about more von Willebrand factor.
Jason said he feels like he got hit with a baseball bat to the chest but not as bad as a Mack truck. He has taken the morphine every time it has been offered. Jason asked me what was in his hand, I checked and told him it was his drainage tube from his chest - he thought it was a toy he was squeezing - oops. We are waiting (6:15 p.m.) to hear from Dr. Oesterling to see if he can have Toradol (a longer lasting pain medicine). Jason also keeps saying 'we did it!", which is exactly my feeling too. I could not be happier right now with the surgery itself, the care he is getting and his progress is awesome. They say he is bouncing back great because he is such a healthy person!!!!!!
Thank you to everyone for all your kind thoughts, prayers, emails, blog comments, phone calls, etc. As soon as Jason is a little more alert I will read your comments to him. Loretto says she will definitely have Jason up and walking tonight. Jason wants me to read the blog stuff now, but after one sentence he falls asleep.
Lots of love and hugs to all of you, we feel your support and it helps so much! Tricia, wife
"Anesthesia Kicks your A**"
"Anesthesia kicks your a**."
Those were Jason's first words after the ventilator tube was removed from his throat around 4pm today.
He is awake, becoming more and more alert as the minutes pass as the drugs from surgery wear off and seems to be aware of what's going on around him.
His heart rate and blood pressure are good. The next few days he will continue to be watched for signs of bleeding.
For now, however, he is very glad to have the first of many tubes removed from his body.
--posted by brother
Those were Jason's first words after the ventilator tube was removed from his throat around 4pm today.
He is awake, becoming more and more alert as the minutes pass as the drugs from surgery wear off and seems to be aware of what's going on around him.
His heart rate and blood pressure are good. The next few days he will continue to be watched for signs of bleeding.
For now, however, he is very glad to have the first of many tubes removed from his body.
--posted by brother
Post-surgery update: 2:20p
Another member of Jason's surgical team just came in and said that Jason handled the surgery very well. He is apparently metabolizing the anesthesia quickly and is starting to move the muscles of his diaphragm already [Note: The drugs given during surgery completely paralyze the muscles, so the fact that he is starting to move is a good sign].
He hasn't received any packed blood cells, but did receive some platelets. He will be watched closely over the next few days for any signs of bleeding, but so far, so good!
Tricia was just taken back to see him.
This will probably be the last update from me this afternoon, but I will have another entry tonight (and you never know - Tricia may post something as well!).
Thank you again to everyone for your calls, emails, comments and good thoughts!
He hasn't received any packed blood cells, but did receive some platelets. He will be watched closely over the next few days for any signs of bleeding, but so far, so good!
Tricia was just taken back to see him.
This will probably be the last update from me this afternoon, but I will have another entry tonight (and you never know - Tricia may post something as well!).
Thank you again to everyone for your calls, emails, comments and good thoughts!
Surgery is DONE!
Jason's surgeon just came to talk with us. There was very little bleeding despite the von Willebrand Disease (bleeding disorder) and he said Jason did great.
The breathing tube is still in and he will be kept asleep for a while before the breathing tube is removed.
We expect that we'll be able to see Jason later this afternoon.
The breathing tube is still in and he will be kept asleep for a while before the breathing tube is removed.
We expect that we'll be able to see Jason later this afternoon.
Surgery Update: 1245p
1245.
SURGERY IS ALMOST OVER!
Chest drains are in, temporary pacing wires are in (and will remain in place until he is discharged), and they are finishing up closing his breastbone. We expect that he will be on his way back to his room in the next 30-60 minutes.
At this point, the team reports that all looks really good; no bleeding around any of the surgery site and he has tolerated the surgery well.
I'll try to post an update around 2p (even if there is nothing new); sooner if events warrant.
--------------
Thanks to Jennifer Bartolotta and the folks at Pizzeria Piccola for sending over a really big lunch. Thanks to Matt Haase for offering to bring us food, but Jennifer beat you to it!
--posted by brother
SURGERY IS ALMOST OVER!
Chest drains are in, temporary pacing wires are in (and will remain in place until he is discharged), and they are finishing up closing his breastbone. We expect that he will be on his way back to his room in the next 30-60 minutes.
At this point, the team reports that all looks really good; no bleeding around any of the surgery site and he has tolerated the surgery well.
I'll try to post an update around 2p (even if there is nothing new); sooner if events warrant.
--------------
Thanks to Jennifer Bartolotta and the folks at Pizzeria Piccola for sending over a really big lunch. Thanks to Matt Haase for offering to bring us food, but Jennifer beat you to it!
--posted by brother
1235 - Still waiting for the update
Still waiting for our 1230 update....this is not to mean that anything is wrong, but the family went to a different room for lunch...likely waiting for all to reconvene in the waiting room.
Update soon!
Update soon!
Surgery Update: 1130a
Jason is still in surgery, but still doing fine. Doing last sewing on the root. Started rewarming him for the process to wean off heart-lung machine (his body was cooled to 87F as part of the process). Will be watching and looking for bleeding over the next hour or so....next update in about an hour.
And I've been told to give a "shout out" to everyone reading from Mercer!
--posted by brother
And I've been told to give a "shout out" to everyone reading from Mercer!
--posted by brother
Surgery Update: 10am
Sue from the surgical team came in and gave us the report.
The aneurysm was large enough that the entire ascending aorta is being replaced, along with the aortic root and the aortic valve.
The old valve is out and the doctor is working on sewing in the new tubular dacron graft with the valve attached.
Sue also mentioned that Jason's heart is in very good shape. No bleeding issues at this point. Jason is still on the heart-lung machine at this point. At least two hours of surgery left. During that time, the new aorta with valve will be sewn in and he will be weaned off the heart-lung machine and checked for bleeding.
Next update at 1130a.
--posted by brother
The aneurysm was large enough that the entire ascending aorta is being replaced, along with the aortic root and the aortic valve.
The old valve is out and the doctor is working on sewing in the new tubular dacron graft with the valve attached.
Sue also mentioned that Jason's heart is in very good shape. No bleeding issues at this point. Jason is still on the heart-lung machine at this point. At least two hours of surgery left. During that time, the new aorta with valve will be sewn in and he will be weaned off the heart-lung machine and checked for bleeding.
Next update at 1130a.
--posted by brother
Surgery Update: 8:30am
Sue from the surgical team came in to give us the first update.
We still don't know what will actually need to be done to the aorta in terms of repair, as the surgical team is still working on opening the breastbone.
The really good news is the bleeding disorder (von Willebrand Disease) doesn't seem like it will be a problem. The labs of the von Willebrand factor (the blood protein that helps the clotting process) show that Jason has an elevated level of the protein. This is good, as people with vWD tend to have a lower than normal amount of the protein. Jason received a drug which helps the body release stored amounts of von Willebrand factor and his body responded.
The next update is scheduled for 10am CT. At that time, we will have a better idea of what repair needs to be done.
-posted by brother
We still don't know what will actually need to be done to the aorta in terms of repair, as the surgical team is still working on opening the breastbone.
The really good news is the bleeding disorder (von Willebrand Disease) doesn't seem like it will be a problem. The labs of the von Willebrand factor (the blood protein that helps the clotting process) show that Jason has an elevated level of the protein. This is good, as people with vWD tend to have a lower than normal amount of the protein. Jason received a drug which helps the body release stored amounts of von Willebrand factor and his body responded.
The next update is scheduled for 10am CT. At that time, we will have a better idea of what repair needs to be done.
-posted by brother
Monday, August 25, 2008
Jason is checked into TWHH
We had a blast in Las Vegas this weekend! It was wonderful to have such a great vacation with friends. Jason and I really enjoyed ourselves and helped keep our minds off his surgery.
Jason is officially checked into The Wisconsin Heart Hospital. He had a couple tests at Noon today (ultrasound, x-rays, blood tests, etc.). They are doing a transfusion of the Von Willabrands factor today (not to be confused with the blood transfusion I told some of you about, so there is our clarification). They will get him up tomorrow morning about 4:30 a.m. or 5:30 a.m. for testing, full body shave, etc. and surgery will begin at 7:00 a.m. So I will be at the hospital tomorrow at 4:30 a.m. and I can be with him until he goes into surgery at 7:00 a.m.
Jason can have visitors all day today (there actually are no visiting hours 24 - 7 they say) and he is probably just going to sit around most of the day today, so visitors are welcome to pop in today. The only time he WILL NOT be in his room is during the actual surgery and for about 1 hour afterwards, otherwise his room is his ICU, recovery, etc. The nurses are great!
I will (and Scott) continue to give updates through the blog, but I am warning you that my writing skills are not as good as Jason's.
Love,
Tricia
P.S. Thank you for all your love, support and prayers.
Jason is officially checked into The Wisconsin Heart Hospital. He had a couple tests at Noon today (ultrasound, x-rays, blood tests, etc.). They are doing a transfusion of the Von Willabrands factor today (not to be confused with the blood transfusion I told some of you about, so there is our clarification). They will get him up tomorrow morning about 4:30 a.m. or 5:30 a.m. for testing, full body shave, etc. and surgery will begin at 7:00 a.m. So I will be at the hospital tomorrow at 4:30 a.m. and I can be with him until he goes into surgery at 7:00 a.m.
Jason can have visitors all day today (there actually are no visiting hours 24 - 7 they say) and he is probably just going to sit around most of the day today, so visitors are welcome to pop in today. The only time he WILL NOT be in his room is during the actual surgery and for about 1 hour afterwards, otherwise his room is his ICU, recovery, etc. The nurses are great!
I will (and Scott) continue to give updates through the blog, but I am warning you that my writing skills are not as good as Jason's.
Love,
Tricia
P.S. Thank you for all your love, support and prayers.
Less than 24 hours before surgery...
Today is Monday, August 25th, and in less than 2 hours, I will be checking into the hospital for final preparations. Surgery is slated for 7am tomorrow. The next series of emails on this blog will be from my brother, providing updates on the surgery as they are provided to the family.
Two final thoughts before I sign off for a few days:
- I'm surprised that I am still feeling relatively calm about the impending process. I guess it's because I have done everything in my control (picking the best surgeon and hospital I could find, staying in relatively good shape, etc.), and everything after this point is largely out of my control (other than my attitude/outlook). No sense in worrying about things not in my control.
- I'm surprised (actually stunned) at the level of support that my family has received during this process. Offers to watch Lauren, cook dinner, or simply be available at any time for support have been numerous and sometimes from unexpected sources. We've been very lucky to cross paths with so many quality people over our years.
Take care everyone and thanks again.
Jason
Two final thoughts before I sign off for a few days:
- I'm surprised that I am still feeling relatively calm about the impending process. I guess it's because I have done everything in my control (picking the best surgeon and hospital I could find, staying in relatively good shape, etc.), and everything after this point is largely out of my control (other than my attitude/outlook). No sense in worrying about things not in my control.
- I'm surprised (actually stunned) at the level of support that my family has received during this process. Offers to watch Lauren, cook dinner, or simply be available at any time for support have been numerous and sometimes from unexpected sources. We've been very lucky to cross paths with so many quality people over our years.
Take care everyone and thanks again.
Jason
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Another change in plans... and reality starting to set in
Today is Wednesday, August 20th, less than a week before the surgery. I found out yesterday that I will need to be admitted at noon on Monday and will be staying overnight at the hospital. Given that I had plans to spend the day with Lauren, a few early evening hours with some coworker friends and the rest of the night with Lauren and Tricia, I'm pretty bummed out about this. However, given that this early admission is clearly in my best interests (they are doing additional tests on my blood to ensure a lower risk of a bleeding episode), I'm glad that every precaution is being taken.
Speaking of coworkers, today was my last day at Mercer. Definitely a tough day for me, as it drove the point home that this surgery is just around the corner. I truly enjoy my job and work with a wonderful group of people - hardworking, talented, and they let me join in most of their fun activities (volleyball tournaments, softball league, fantasy football league, happy hours, etc.) even though I'm a few years older than most of them (perhaps more than a few years, but who's counting...) I haven't had more than 10 days in a row off of work since I graduated from college in 1992, and it will be very strange to not go to work for such a long time. Need to do something to keep my brain fresh. Maybe that Sudoku book that my coworkers gave me today can help me with that...
Gotta go - Vegas is calling my name. Should be one hell of a last weekend for my leaky valve...
Speaking of coworkers, today was my last day at Mercer. Definitely a tough day for me, as it drove the point home that this surgery is just around the corner. I truly enjoy my job and work with a wonderful group of people - hardworking, talented, and they let me join in most of their fun activities (volleyball tournaments, softball league, fantasy football league, happy hours, etc.) even though I'm a few years older than most of them (perhaps more than a few years, but who's counting...) I haven't had more than 10 days in a row off of work since I graduated from college in 1992, and it will be very strange to not go to work for such a long time. Need to do something to keep my brain fresh. Maybe that Sudoku book that my coworkers gave me today can help me with that...
Gotta go - Vegas is calling my name. Should be one hell of a last weekend for my leaky valve...
Sunday, August 17, 2008
"The Summer of Jason"
Today is Sunday, August 17th, a mere 9 days before my surgery. Tricia, Lauren and I just returned from a weekend "camping" getaway (we did camping-like activities such as make smores, tell campfire stories, etc., but stayed in a lodge with a bed, showers, etc. - not sure what the right name would be, but "camping" doesn't seem like a fair name to the camping purists in the world). Anyway, this getaway weekend was the latest in a series of fun-filled events in the last few months that someone (might have been me actually) dubbed "The Summer of Jason", a concept that someone (again, might actually have been me) ripped off from an episode of Seinfeld.
For those non-Seinfeld fans in the world, the last episode in Season 8 was titled "The Summer of George", and chronicled the period in which George realized that he had a three-month severance package from the Yankees and decides to live those three months to the fullest. However, since George, at his core, is too lazy to get overly ambitious, his summer consisted of very few actual events, some of which included learning frolf (frisbee golf), purchasing a recliner with a refrigerator in it (an idea I wholeheartedly support, especially if used in conjunction with the Stadium Buddy), mid-morning naps, watching many episodes of The White Shadow and assisting as a "relationship intern" for Jerry's relationship with a high-maintenance woman.
Now, I don't have the luxury of having the summer off of work (in fact, it's been relatively crazy on a consistent basis since I transferred to the benefits administration department at Mercer almost a year ago), but The Summer of Jason has been relatively successful thus far. Events include the aforementioned "camping" trip, my 20-year high school reunion a few weeks ago (which was an absolute blast), many nights out with friends, a few nights of softball per week, festivals galore (Summerfest, State Fair, etc.), a pontoon ride with friends on the Milwaukee River (Tricia surprised me with this), several days at Bradford Beach (which is surprisingly clean and pleasant these days) and a few other events that have escaped my memory.
This week will be my last three days of work, then VEGAS with Tricia and a few other friends for my friend Brian's 40th birthday bash, then back Sunday for dinner with family, then spend the whole day with Lauren on Monday before spending a few hours with some coworker friends, then either home for the night or to the Heart Hospital (they haven't decided if they want me to arrive Monday night or at 5am Tuesday morning).
No matter how things go in Vegas (hopefully someone in our group will win a crapload of money), The Summer of Jason has been great. I've spent quality time with my friends and family, reconnected with some friends from the past, and had some time to reflect on my life to this point. I've been truly blessed with many great things, and I hope that by the time The Summer of Jason officially ends (September 22nd according to the calendar), I will be well on my way to a full recovery.
For those non-Seinfeld fans in the world, the last episode in Season 8 was titled "The Summer of George", and chronicled the period in which George realized that he had a three-month severance package from the Yankees and decides to live those three months to the fullest. However, since George, at his core, is too lazy to get overly ambitious, his summer consisted of very few actual events, some of which included learning frolf (frisbee golf), purchasing a recliner with a refrigerator in it (an idea I wholeheartedly support, especially if used in conjunction with the Stadium Buddy), mid-morning naps, watching many episodes of The White Shadow and assisting as a "relationship intern" for Jerry's relationship with a high-maintenance woman.
Now, I don't have the luxury of having the summer off of work (in fact, it's been relatively crazy on a consistent basis since I transferred to the benefits administration department at Mercer almost a year ago), but The Summer of Jason has been relatively successful thus far. Events include the aforementioned "camping" trip, my 20-year high school reunion a few weeks ago (which was an absolute blast), many nights out with friends, a few nights of softball per week, festivals galore (Summerfest, State Fair, etc.), a pontoon ride with friends on the Milwaukee River (Tricia surprised me with this), several days at Bradford Beach (which is surprisingly clean and pleasant these days) and a few other events that have escaped my memory.
This week will be my last three days of work, then VEGAS with Tricia and a few other friends for my friend Brian's 40th birthday bash, then back Sunday for dinner with family, then spend the whole day with Lauren on Monday before spending a few hours with some coworker friends, then either home for the night or to the Heart Hospital (they haven't decided if they want me to arrive Monday night or at 5am Tuesday morning).
No matter how things go in Vegas (hopefully someone in our group will win a crapload of money), The Summer of Jason has been great. I've spent quality time with my friends and family, reconnected with some friends from the past, and had some time to reflect on my life to this point. I've been truly blessed with many great things, and I hope that by the time The Summer of Jason officially ends (September 22nd according to the calendar), I will be well on my way to a full recovery.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Not what I was hoping for...
Today is Tuesday, August 12th, and I have just returned from my visit from Dr. Balkhy. Though I had five pages of questions to ask the good doctor, I was basically hoping for two things:
1. A clear and definitive description of the procedure that would be taking place
2. Confirmation that the mortality rate for my surgery was similar to the norm for valve replacement surgeries (around 3%).
Unfortunately, I went 0 for 2.
***Caution - lengthy medical jibber-jabber to follow***
Dr. Balkhy explained that in addition to the replacement of the aortic valve, at least portions of the ascending aorta would need to be replaced. Unfortunately, he will not know if the portion of the ascending aorta closest to the valve will need to be replaced until the surgery has already started and the breastbone has been opened. If this portion needs to be removed, this lengthens and complicates the surgery, as the coronary arteries need to be detached from my current aorta and reattached to the Dacron graft that would replace that portion of the aorta.
Translation: He's going to open me up, take a look, and make a judgement call on the spot.
This information led me to my next question - how does this affect the mortality rate? (A natural question for someone that has spend many years in the actuarial profession). According to Dr. Balkhy's best guess, the mortality rate is cumulative as follows:
3%: Valve replacement/open heart procedure
2%: Bleeding complications associated with vonWillebrand (genetic bleeding disorder)
2%: Complications related to replacement of ascending aorta and reattachment of coronary arteries
Total mortality rate: 7%
He also listed the chance of a non-fatal incident (such as stroke or paralysis) as relatively minor (0-2%).
I guess that I should consider a 93% survival rate to be a good thing, and I'm sure that in a few days, I'll feel better about it. However, right now, I'm having a bit of trouble coming to terms with this info.
1. A clear and definitive description of the procedure that would be taking place
2. Confirmation that the mortality rate for my surgery was similar to the norm for valve replacement surgeries (around 3%).
Unfortunately, I went 0 for 2.
***Caution - lengthy medical jibber-jabber to follow***
Dr. Balkhy explained that in addition to the replacement of the aortic valve, at least portions of the ascending aorta would need to be replaced. Unfortunately, he will not know if the portion of the ascending aorta closest to the valve will need to be replaced until the surgery has already started and the breastbone has been opened. If this portion needs to be removed, this lengthens and complicates the surgery, as the coronary arteries need to be detached from my current aorta and reattached to the Dacron graft that would replace that portion of the aorta.
Translation: He's going to open me up, take a look, and make a judgement call on the spot.
This information led me to my next question - how does this affect the mortality rate? (A natural question for someone that has spend many years in the actuarial profession). According to Dr. Balkhy's best guess, the mortality rate is cumulative as follows:
3%: Valve replacement/open heart procedure
2%: Bleeding complications associated with vonWillebrand (genetic bleeding disorder)
2%: Complications related to replacement of ascending aorta and reattachment of coronary arteries
Total mortality rate: 7%
He also listed the chance of a non-fatal incident (such as stroke or paralysis) as relatively minor (0-2%).
I guess that I should consider a 93% survival rate to be a good thing, and I'm sure that in a few days, I'll feel better about it. However, right now, I'm having a bit of trouble coming to terms with this info.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Big Day Tomorrow
Today is Monday, August 11th, 15 days before my surgery. I've had tomorrow circled on my calendar for a long time - it's my chance to spend some time getting to know Dr. Sam Balkhy, who will soon become one of the more important people in my life. Dr. Balkhy is the Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery at the Wisconsin Heart Hospital, and he will be the one that will be performing my surgery. I have 5 pages of questions for him, ranging from "Have you dealt with bleeding disorders during this surgery before" to "Are you really going to shave my entire body? Why?"
I should also get some info regarding the complexity of my surgery - is the aorta being replaced as well as the valve? All of the aorta, or just some of it? Can they repair it instead? Any chance to avoid the breaking of the sternum? I've heard you've been using robotics at the hospital - will you be using it with me? Lots of stuff going through my head right now, and in less than 24 hours, I hope to have some clarity.
I should also get some info regarding the complexity of my surgery - is the aorta being replaced as well as the valve? All of the aorta, or just some of it? Can they repair it instead? Any chance to avoid the breaking of the sternum? I've heard you've been using robotics at the hospital - will you be using it with me? Lots of stuff going through my head right now, and in less than 24 hours, I hope to have some clarity.
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