Bill's ultrasound brought mixed news. It showed that his heart muscle function has improved since he came in. It is not as good as the last time we went home, but halfway there. This is something that can get better. What is not better is his leaky aortic valve. I wasn't here, so I don't know how much worse it is. I do know that the only way they can know exactly how bad it is, is with an angiogram. It has always looked worse on the ultrasound than it really is. I might be just a little too optimistic here, but facts are facts. There is a procedure that is not open heart surgery that fixes aortic valves. We have asked them about it before, but he didn't need it then. It might be an option. Jeff was here when the doctors were, and he didn't know about it to ask. Of course, Bill can't talk. How unfair is that? The ventilator is still in to support his lungs. He got to sit up in a chair today, and that felt great. They also had him do some exercises with his legs. No pain! His blood pressure has been great. They reduced the "pressers" (that is what they call the helper drugs), and it is still doing well. That is wonderful news. Our sweet Bishop came by today and got in at a great time. He and Jeff gave Bill a blessing. Flecks of gold. There are plans for a walk, if we can figure out all of the equipment. He is having dialysis today with stronger solutions. He already looks less puffy. Not that it matters, but I got 2 out of three lessons done today and ready for Monday. I got a bath in my own tub and cleans clothes. I grabbed the few things I was missing. For those of you that know Doug and Carma Luke, it is their son Chris' birthday today. They are amazing people that have had more than their share of challenges. Helps so much to know that others have gotten through hard times with a smile.
Update after visit with Dr. M.
Aortic valve is not worse. Is there a repair for how it is? Yes, but it is not bad enough to repair.
Mitral valve is worse. Is there a repair for it? Yes, but Bill is not eligible because of his kidney failure. When it is approved, he could have it. Not "approved" at this time. It can get better if his ejection fractions get back up around 40-45, which they can do. The leak would be less severe. Blood Pressure still good with reduced "pressers". Down, but not out.
2 comments:
Loves and hugs to you both. Jeff continually expresses his gratitude to me that his dad has someone like you to watch over him with such tenderness and devotion. It is beautiful to behold and we are all learning from your care. Maybe that is a small silver lining in this cloud, you are an example of pure love.
And your comments are beautiful, Brooke. Hear hear!
MK have you ever thought of being a nurse? You seem to understand all that stuff which is usually like Greek to me, and can even translate it into lay terms for the rest of us!
Your update after talking w/the doctor sounded quite positive. Yay! Please give Bill and yourself a big hug for us!
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