On Christmas morning 12/25/2016 Steve was rushed to United Hospital with symptoms of a heart attack. Upon arrival, doctors told us he was in acute congestive heart failure. They were able to stabilize him by removing the fluid that had built up around his heart and lungs. Further testing showed that he suffered a massive heart attack at least a month ago, but somehow didn't realize it. They also performed an angioplasty to clear the blockage and insert a
stint, but the artery was 100% blocked so this was unsuccessful. He currently has a team of cardiologists and specialists working on his case to develop a course of action. The doctors have been telling us how amazed they are that he is still alive and with us and have explained how extremely rare it is to survive this type of heart attack. We are calling this our Christmas Miracle!
Monday: 12/26/2016 Test after Test continues to evaluate Steve's condition. Lots of family and friends have been visiting. Steve is up and moving around and in good spirits, considering what he's going through. Thank you for all of the support and prayers!
Tuesday 12/27/2016- An MRI was performed to see a detailed picture of the damage to the heart. Results showed he has a large aneurysm on the left side of his heart, as well as multiple blood clots inside the heart. Total heart function at this time is at only 13%. Talk of inserting an internal defibrillator tomorrow.... Steve was happy to see many visitors throughout the day again today, and finished off the night watching the Minnesota Wild hockey game with Garrett.
Wednesday 12/28/2016- A procedure was scheduled for 2:00 PM to place a Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) but was postponed until Thursday when another surgeon who is more familiar with this procedure would be available. Visitors continue and Steve remains content and awaits his procedure.
Thursday 12/29/2016 The procedure to place an ICD is scheduled for 2:00 PM. Steve continues to proudly show off his new twin grand-babies to all of the doctors, nurses, and everyone that walks by!
Steve has a long road ahead, and the damage to his heart is extensive. At this time, the large aneurysm is of great concern and doctors are referring him to a surgeon at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN to review his case. The surgeon will evaluate and determine if removing the aneurysm and repairing the heart is the best option, or, if he will eventually need to be placed on the transplant list. We will continue to update as often as possible and thank everyone for your continued love and support.
A Go Fund Me account has been setup for Steve to assist in his long journey ahead -
https://www.gofundme.com/g8-steves-medical-fund 
