Welcome to our Caring Bridge site for Judy Melton. This site was designed by us to help relay information and keep our family and friends informed about her health and progress. We DO NOT WANT or NEED any DONATIONS - all prayers and well wishes are welcome and will be shared with Judy!
As some of you may know (or not), Judy was seen at the hospital on Thurs., Sept. 15th for a routine stress test. During this procedure, there was a significant change in the electrical activity of her heart (EKG changes). Even though Judy was not having any chest pain or other symptoms prior to this procedure or during, the staff felt it was important to investigate further. She was admitted for overnight observation with a coronary cath (angiogram) procedure planned for the next day - with possible angioplasty or stent.
Unfortunately, during the angiogram, it was discovered that 3 of her main heart vessels were either completely, or nearly completely blocked and stenting would not improve the situation. Her only option was bypass surgery. After discussion with her surgeon and her family, Judy made the brave decision to go ahead with this major surgery.
Judy was taken for surgery this morning (09/19/16) at 7:45 AM after a family prayer. Veins and arteries were harvested from her left arm and chest to provide new vessels for her heart to transport blood. The entire surgery took approximately 5 and 1/2 hours. She was then transferred to the ICU. Her cardiac surgeon discussed the case with the family and stated that he felt everything went well - however the next 24-48 hours are critical.
We have been able to see Judy in the ICU. She is resting comfortably. She will be put through many test over the next couple days including weaning off the breathing machine, getting rid of several IV medications, sitting up, and working on deep breathing and coughing techniques to keep the lungs strong and prevent pneumonia.
She will be in the ICU for the next couple days. They have very strict guidelines - limited visiting and no flowers or balloons. Our hope is that she will be transferred to a "regular" cardiac room in the next 3+ days, and then she will be able to have unrestricted visitors, gifts, and phone calls. We will do our best to update this site as frequently as possible with health changes, progress, and milestones. As always, we are so grateful for your thoughts, prayers, kindnesses, love, and support. We are blessed!!
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