Thursday, December 11, 2008

In the midst of Christmas shopping and celebrations, Brady, Grandma and I went to Brady's cardiology appointment today. It was his follow-up echo from his cath last August. My favorite part of the whole day was a little girl walking around the waiting room with a tray in front of her, stopping at every single person and asking, "Would you like a cookie?" She then handed out an invisible cookie. I watched her walk around and every person played along with her -- I love when everyone comes together for a greater good.

And now for the reason why we were there: the short version of the story is that Brady will have heart surgery in February. The longer version is that ever since Brady was one month old, we knew surgery was in his future. His gradient keeps going up, and his cardiologist, Dr. Marx, was only waiting until he was older to have the surgery. He said that a few pounds difference isn't really going to matter, and he was waiting for that big sign to get this going -- which was his level going up again after a few months. Dr. Marx said that some other cardiologists would have probably already done the surgery, but he wanted to wait as long as possible. It is surgery that will --hopefully-- only be a one-time-thing.

The good news is that his cardiologist said that Brady will be fine for the surgery, he doesn't really have any worries for him. Dr. Marx is a very straight, honest man who doesn't say things just to make you feel better, so I feel very confident since he said that. The bad news (besides the obvious) is that we're looking at a seven to 10 day hospital stay -- ugh. Brady will take a few weeks to recuperate, but I'm already thinking of the pounds he'll probably lose after all our high-calorie work!

We should get a call over the next week or so to put the date on the calendar. I am feeling okay, as I trust his cardiologist and I see how well Brady is doing. One day at a time...

12 comments:

Dawn said...

I'll say a prayer for Brady and for you and your family. Even if you knew this was coming, it doesn't make it any easier.

After this, he should get all of the cheesecake he can eat.

Katie said...

Im sorry this "future" surgery has now become a reality, but I am sure Mr Brady will come out the other side better off for it. You guys are in my thoughts and prayers.
xxoo

Michelle said...

Brady will be in my prayer. I will see you Sunday and we can chat.xoxo
Michelle

camille said...

Thinking of you guys. I'm glad you have confidence in your cardiologist. Sounds like he has Brady's best interest in mind, especially as he was willing to wait until he was a bit older to do the surgery.

Heather said...

Ugh! I know it is what his heart needs, but still, it's hard to hear. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Amy said...

Kerry, ergh! I didn't know he was destined for cardiac surgery someday. Well I do know you are a woman of strength, stamina and wisdom and will be his hero through it all.
xoxo
Amy

Noel said...

My thougths are with you. There is no way to explain how it feels unless you've been there...I've been in a similar place and can say that it is scary but in your heart you always know it has to be done. I hope that Brady surprizes you and does so well you get home even sooner! I have heard good things about Dr. Marx( actually a friend from KC flew there with her son and he had surgery yesterday).
Sending postive thoughts your way!

Nancy said...

I am sorry surgery is in Brady's future, but it sounds like you are in good hands. Keep us updated, and we will keep praying for you.

Yeah, I think cheesecake and milkshakes are in order!

Penny said...

I am so sorry to hear that Brady will have to endure this. You all are always in my thoughts

Nanci said...

Bummer Kerry, but we have done it twice and he could not be in better hands. You will be amazed at how quickly he will recover from the actual surgery. Coleman's surgical sites have been wide open still with no indication of narrowing again, been 2 years. Let us know how we can help you through this.

Unknown said...

You all are in my thoughts and my prayers. I am sorry that Brady and you family have to go through this.

Wanted to wish you all Happy Holidays!

Hugs anna & ava jewel

Jennifer said...

If you guys need anything, including watching Michael, cooking food for the family, etc, please let us know. I know how much it suchs going into Boston for just a day, let alone a week. Let me know how we can help you guys out!