Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Surgery Date

We learned today that Brady's surgery is scheduled for January 20th.  I guess we know what we will be doing on Human Rights Day.  Part of us was hoping that it would be scheduled before the end of the year so that it could be applied to this year's insurance out of pocket maximum.  However, we are thrilled to not have to spend Christmas in the hospital, or to prepare for Christmas at the same time we are preparing for surgery.  It will be a relief to all of our children to be able to spend Christmas at home.

The middle of January has been a very significant time for Brady.  Ten years ago on January 13th was when we first learned through an ultrasound about Brady's heart defects.  Five years ago on January 21st Brady had his pacemaker implanted.  If we are on a 5-year cycle, we will be planning a trip to the moon for the entire month of January 2019 in order to avoid whatever event may be coming our way.

Our task for the next 6 weeks is to keep Brady healthy.  We were told that we need to have Brady checked out by his Pediatrician for any sickness he gets between now and then as it may impact his surgery date.  Santa may be bringing hand sanitizer for everybody's stockings this year.

Sunday, December 1, 2013

Thanksgiving

We felt it appropriate to begin this blog during the week of Thanksgiving because we have much to be thankful for.  Our heart journey began nearly 10 years ago when we learned that our second child would be born with Congenital Heart Disease.  Although we were devastated with the news of multiple  heart defects, we found hope through our faith and comfort through the many prayers that were offered on our family's behalf.

Brady had his first surgery when he was 6 days old.  The surgery successful repaired much of Brady's heart, but complications arose in the days that followed that led the doctors to question whether he would survive let alone lead a normal life.


Nine years later, Brady thrives in his environment.  Brady excels in school and is learning to play the piano.  He loves hiking, camping and spending time with friends and family.  From his early days Brady has learned to fight through the difficulties that a weakened heart creates.  Despite his challenges he finds great joy in life!


We are thankful for all of the thoughts and prayers of friends, family and strangers from around the world.  We firmly believe that Brady would not be where he is today without the expertise of his doctors and the faith of friends and family.

We decided to start this blog because we are preparing for a second open heart surgery.  We've been aware of some lingering issues with Brady's heart for several years, and have decided to finally proceed with an aortic valve repair or replacement.  We plan to use this blog to update anyone who happens to be interested in his care.  We also plan on describing some of the things we learn as a family along the way.