Jim’s Story

Site created on December 26, 2022

Welcome to our CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place.

Jim underwent a Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure back on December 13th to correct a failing heart valve. The Doctors were successful in placing the new valve but small pieces of calcium deposits were dislodged during the procedure. The calcium deposits ultimately made their way to his brain resulting in a stroke. As a result, he has lost much of his ability to speak, walk, and other basic motor skills.

Jim was discharged from the hospital on December 20th and is currently working on his recovery at the M Health Fairview Acute Rehabilitation Center in Minneapolis. Here he is undergoing extensive physical and occupational therapy to reconnect his brain signals with the corresponding muscle functions so that he can return home. At this point it is still uncertain as to what level of recovery can be expected or how long it will take. We remain optimistic as we continue to push forward.


We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement.

Thank you for visiting.

Newest Update

Journal entry by Dan DeMers

Big day today!

Dad was finally released from the acute rehab center and returned home where his rehab will continue.  We were a little unsure as to how this would all go but we’ve managed to clear all of the hurdles along the way thus far.  Getting in and out of the car was our primary concern but it was clear Dad was ready to go.  He nearly jumped out of his chair and into the car.  There was no way he was going back!  

Getting out of the car and into the house was just as smooth.  We’ve still got some work to do on the inside the house in order to help make the day to day activities as easy and efficient as possible but I’m sure in time we’ll iron out the wrinkles.  Mom has done a great job with the routine tasks such as transferring Dad to and from the bed, maneuvering him around the house and of course finding something good on TV.   

Most important of all Dad’s attitude has been great.  It’s clear he is happy to be home and we’re just as happy he’s back.  For now the focus is on getting settled back in and establishing a routine but there won’t be much downtime before the in-house rehab kicks off.  We’re hopeful this transition helps to speed his recovery.  We know we’ve got a long way to go so please keep the positives vibes coming!


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