The year 2019 was the beginning of a new horizon for us (Vicki and Steve) since we both retired. It hardly seemed like we were able to start doing all we had planned because we were so busy. So with the new year we were hoping that might start changing. But the new year brought along another new horizon for us.
Last year I was experiencing fatigue more than usual, got easily winded during exercise, and toward the end of the year started experiencing random chest and jaw pain. Nothing extraordinary, and they easily could have been overlooked as just part of getting old. My annual physical was January 3, and I requested a treadmill test. Given our extensive history of heart issues in the family, the doctor agreed. The treadmill test turned up some oddities that concerned the doctors enough to immediately pursue a CT heart scan and an echocardiogram.
I completed those tests and had my follow-up consultation. The doctor shared with Vicki and I that the tests showed a blockage in my main aortic artery that supplies blood to the heart. The test led him to believe that there was greater than 70 percent blockage, but they wouldn't know for sure until they actually went into the heart with a catheter. This artery is called the "Widow Maker" because heart attacks due to blockage in this artery are often sudden and fatal. The doctor recommended a heart catheterization.
The catheterization was performed on Monday, February 4. It revealed 90 percent blockage and, based on the location, was not a candidate for a stent. Instead, he recommended Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery scheduled for Friday, February 7.
The goods news is ... 1. I am thankful that God gave me the clarity of thought to push for a treadmill test. Given the type of blockage, there might not have been any second chances. 2. So far, all the other vital statistics about my heart appear normal. There has been no damage to the heart and the prognosis is good. 3. I have family and friends that care and I know will pray for Vicki and me as we undertake this procedure. 4. God has created mankind with such amazing skills and knowledge to be able to perform such technical healthcare. I have been blessed to be alive and earn a living in the technological age. One of my favorite quotes is from Walt Whitman, the Civil War nurse and poet: “Oh, to be alive in such an age, when miracles are everywhere, and every inch of common air throbs a tremendous prophecy, of greater marvels yet to be.” We are very confident in our surgeon and his team. 5. I avoided going through a heart attack before discovering I had issues. 6. Vicki and I have a great deal of peace about the whole situation.
In summary: 1) Vicki and I are assured of the outcome because of in whom we trust. 2) We are not necessarily looking forward to going through the unpleasant recovery process. 3) We are looking forward to reaching our goal of improved health. 4) We are cognizant that there are lessons to be learned during the journey.
Dad is home! Right now he is sitting in his wingback chair in the sunroom. Thank you all for following along, for sending encouragement, for praying. We read all of your comments to him throughout the process, and it never failed to lift his spirits.
A brief note on recovery: the doctor says that, for this procedure, improvement doesn’t happen while sitting in bed and laying around in pajamas. He’ll be working hard. I’m also obliged to pass this along from the doctor, in a stern voice: Dad is still vulnerable to illnesses, so any visitors to the house will need to be free of all recent sicknesses and germs.
Lastly, the internet privileges of Squawks McGraw have been restored, which means two things: (1) criminals beware, (2) you may reach out to him directly by phone, text, or email. With many appointments and rehab assignments, the response time might not be immediate, but I’m sure he’ll appreciate hearing from you. Perhaps we might even receive some updates from him or Mom on this page in the coming days.
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Stephan Stay Connected to Family and Friends
A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Stephan's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?
