Early this afternoon, I called Donna to check on Jim. To my surprise, she asked if I wanted to talk with him …. Of Course!!!! Then this strong, youthful voice answered the phone. In an instant, my mind registered the same voice about 20-30 years ago. It sounded like the youthful, easy-going (ok, somewhat), Jim of long ago. I could barely carry an intelligent conversation I was smiling so broadly and was so very thrilled.
He reports that today is his best day since surgery with some soreness, but minimal pain from the surgery. He communicated that it is remarkable how good he feels. The tingling he had experienced in his hands and feet for a long time are gone, as well as other aches and pains now attributed to his failing heart, as they no longer exist.
Jim has begun his oral medication regimen, a mere 10 pills at breakfast, with additional doses during the day. While he is eating a bit more today, an appropriate appetite will come with time.
Even more remarkable is his upcoming discharge. On Monday Jim is scheduled to have a biopsy of the heart (part of the post-transplant protocol for early detection of rejection, if any). Then if all is well, they plan to discharge Jim on Tuesday, which he said was the earliest date possible in their protocol (just 8 days post surgery).
After discharge, Jim will have weekly follow-up appointments in KC for a month, then a reduction in visits as he continues to heal from the surgery and maintain his heart health.
This gives testament to the superior protocol, surgeon, transplant team and facilities at Saint Luke’s in KC, as well as Jim’s attitude, drive for wellness and his personal support team of family and friends.
It is difficult to imagine the progress a human can make in just over a week as a person in intensive care with severe congestive heart failure, to a person brimming with vitality – nothing short of miraculous.
November 2, 2012 Cindy
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