Hi everyone! This is Ylan! Some of you may know me as Erin or Titi. 

First, I'd like to thank everyone for the kind wishes and prayers over the past couple days. My dad is so lucky to have such amazing family and friends from all over the country. This will be the fastest and easiest way to keep everyone updated about my dad's surgery and recovery process. Mom, Vivi and I will try our best to update on CaringBridge daily if not more frequently! We apologize ahead if we are unable to respond in a timely manner in the next few weeks as we will be taking care of our dad in the hospital.  

Currently my dad is doing well with no discomfort or chest pain. Dad is staying at Houston Methodist Michael Debakey Center Cardiovascular Center. 

Here's a quick synopsis of the past week's event. Dad went in for routine cardiac catherization with possible stent placement on 03/26/21. It was determined that Dad has significant blockage to main arteries (Right main artery 90%, Left main artery 80%, Posterior branch 90%). The only safe option is cardiac bypass. Stenting is not a safe option as this could dislodge the blockage and cause stroke. Risk and benefits of stenting is too dangerous. In addition, Dad's echocardiogram showed aortic valve regurgitation (inadequate closing of aortic valve) which might or might not need replacement. We have had multiple conversations as a family. Dad made the decision to proceed with surgery. It is big surgery, but Dad is confident. 

Plan for surgery is early Monday May 3, 2021. We have had multiple conversations with Dad's cardiovascular surgeon, Dr. Ross Reul and his PAs. Dr. Reul comes highly recommended by many of my medical/physician community, which is very reassuring. Dad will most likely undergo quadruple bypass with possible aortic valve replacement. The decision of valve replacement will be determined in surgery by Dr. Reul depending on severity. 

At this time, Dad is in good spirits and learning everything he can in preparation for surgery. He loves learning how CV surgery is done and I've had a fun time explaining everything I can about vascular surgery! He has mild cabin fever being stuck in the hospital for the past week. Mom is able to spend the nights with him in the hospital and Vivi spends most of the days with him. I come and go throughout the day when possible/needed. It has been nice to always have someone with him. 

Right now, we would really appreciate all the prayers we can get. I truly believe in the power of prayers. We're praying for steady surgeon's hand, a smooth operation and a quick recovery for Dad. We can't wait to bring him home!