John & Joann
Well-known member
Joann celebrates her 45th anniversary of 2 mechanical heart valves. Yes, there have been many high spots, and a few days that were a challenge. This year Joann faced several significant issues. She had a false positive reading for colon cancer. Cleveland Clinic performed at virtual colonoscopy that showed she did not have any DNA cancer cells. She became dehydrated and required a few days of hospitalization to add fluid to the system. A few weeks later they discovered that her battery on the pacemaker was going South quickly. A new pacemaker was installed at the Clinic. 1 week later, she developed a hematoma (bleeding) and the incision broke open. 5 days in the hospital, a 2 hour surgery and the bleeding was stopped. 24 hrs. later at home, Joann fell back and hit the corner of a wall. 10 staples, 4 fractured vertebra, and a broken rib required 9 days in hospital and another 9 days in rehab. She has had visiting nurse, nurse aid, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist (small motor skills) meals for 1 month, and a cleaning lady twice a month that we had employed several years ago. She is on oxygen most of the time. The oxygen level is normal when she is quiet, but drops quickly with activity. She is on large amount of diuretic to remove fluids.
The doctors have all said that she is a fighter and determined to live a normal life. We are not going to Florida this winter, but instead will concentrate on her recuperation. She has only left the house once to visit the doctor. All other activities are in our home.
We both continue to pray for strength, great medical care, and the emotional efforts to return to her normal lifestyle. Please do not take this message negative. We both give thanks for the many years of quality life, look forward to our first great grandchild, and plan to enjoy life again in the near future.
Joann has had 45 years of quality life. Without the 1971 surgery, her life would have ended quickly. We celebrate the help that she has received from many, many people. Merry Christmas to everyone.
John writing for Joann
The doctors have all said that she is a fighter and determined to live a normal life. We are not going to Florida this winter, but instead will concentrate on her recuperation. She has only left the house once to visit the doctor. All other activities are in our home.
We both continue to pray for strength, great medical care, and the emotional efforts to return to her normal lifestyle. Please do not take this message negative. We both give thanks for the many years of quality life, look forward to our first great grandchild, and plan to enjoy life again in the near future.
Joann has had 45 years of quality life. Without the 1971 surgery, her life would have ended quickly. We celebrate the help that she has received from many, many people. Merry Christmas to everyone.
John writing for Joann
