Journal entry by Jason McNeil —
💙Abel Heart UPDATE!💙 left all my mushy emotions and feelings out of this post 😉
•
Abel was born with heart disease- a bicuspid valve....which he didn't know until this year when he became really ill.
•
He began symptoms in March, had 2 virtual appointments with doctors in April that gave him antibiotics, steroids and stronger asthma medications.
•
He became worse. I called myself and had a virtual appointment with the doctor. The 3rd doctor we had talked to....told us to get him to the ER asap....thinking it might be covid.
•
The ER doctor listened to his heart and all his symptoms and ordered an echocardiogram. Another doctor walked in and said ....Abel was in congestive heart failure....his heart was only pumping at a 20%. He was being admitted and no one could be with him because of covid hospital rules.
•
20 LONG days in the hospital ICU and cardiac unit. The doctors had a successful surgery replacing his valve but he still had a lot of damage to his heart. The doctors wanted him to be able to come home 2 us. He left the hospital with his heart pumping at 13% and wearing a life vest (defibrillator).
•
He was put on the heart transplant list
He had a future appointment to have a pacemaker or some kind of internal defibrillator surgery as well.
•
Abel asked his doctors how can he help get his heart get stronger and did EXACTLY what they told him. Strict Low sodium diet, monitored liquid intake to only 1500ml, medications, rehab/physical therapy, dr. appointments and exercise.
•
(Lots of emotions, tears, discipline dedication and prayers)
•
Fast forward to August
Abel did it!
His last echocardiogram....
3 months later
His Heart EF is at 44%!!!!!
Left the hospital at 13% and now at 44%!
(normal EF is 55% to 70%)
And I have no doubt in my mind His heart will only become stronger. 💪
•
He no longer needs a heart transplant or pacemaker!
•
Next is continuing Life with Us!
Now that he knows he has this condition, regular visits with his heart dr, heart medication, another valve replacement surgery in the future, low sodium diet and exercising. He'll be able to go back to work soon too.
•
He's Already looking forward to his next echocardiogram-💙 #s guy 😉
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Abel Stay Connected to Family and Friends
A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Abel's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?
