Beryl’s Story

Site created on February 28, 2019

In November of 2018, a deer hit our vehicle on my side. The following day we went to the ER and did a CAT scan to check for internal bleeding. It was then that I was diagnosed with Pectus excavatum with significant mass effect on the visualized right atrium. 

As an individual already facing Type I diabetes and two other autoimmune illnesses, I was in shock. But I quickly realized I needed to take action, especially as this was affecting my heart. 

In December of 2018 my medicaid for individuals with disabilities was finally approved! Since my diagnosis, I had been hitting the ground in research and joined multiple support groups to figure out what my next steps would be. 

Typically Pectus Excavatum is diagnosed at birth or in later teen years. It is more common in males than females and often goes undiagnosed until a huge issue appears for woman. For a number of years, I have chalked up my exhaustion to my autoimmune diseases and didn't think I would ever feel normal. I found tons of resources and suggestions through pectus.com which was created for patients all over the world. 

In my research, I finally found a Colorado doctor, the only colorado surgeon which operates on Adult pectus patients. Dr. Robert Meguid at Anschutz Medical Campus. Since December, I have undergone multiple testings including a pft test, pulmonary function tests, EKG and stress testing before I could have a consult with Dr. Meguid. 

The tests showed: 
-Haller Index of 4.3
-30% decreased lung capacity. 
-3 valves regurgitating from compression. 
-Significant compression on the right atrium. 

Luckily there is a solution! On March 29, 2019 I will be having the nuss procedure which will lift my rib cage and sternum into the correct position and provide full capacity/space for my heart and lungs. 

I am very lucky to say that my surgery will be covered 100% by my insurance. Unfortunately I will need care when I return home. Angel Flights West is helping get my parents here to care for me. We are hoping to find a place in Denver so that they can stay close to the hospital as I will be in for a minimum of 5 days. 

I will still need lots of help after the surgery with general after surgery care. Any donations will assist us in getting these items and care. We will continue to provide updates through this process and appreciate your help!

Newest Update

March 27, 2019

Journal entry by Beryl Durazo —

2 days.

Monday was my pre-op appointment. Appointment went well and Crystal went with me. We got most of my questions answered and I feel confident.

Unfortunately it took 4 blood draws to get my lab work completed. Luckily I've been dealing with that all my life and it did not hurt. Plus all of my test came back looking good! I even found out my blood type which is O Positive. I wish I could donate blood now!

In addition the only allergy from the patch test I have is to Betadine for surgical prep. Luckily they have other things they can use for prep!

Yesterday morning, Jennifer from Dr. Mequids office called to let me know I've been signed off for surgery.

We are now working on getting my parents here by Thursday with the help of Angel Flights West. So far we have gotten them all the way to Grand Junction and now we just hope to get them a little closer.

So, Friday morning at 6am I will check-in for surgery. If you would like to visit you can call the InPatient front desk of Anschutz Medical Campus at 720-848-4011 to find out my room number. I'm happy to provide my parents phone number if you would like to find out how I'm doing. Just let me know.

Thank you to everyone for the thoughts and prayers. One step closer to feeling some relief. I'll update you soon!
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