Hi everyone,
I am so sorry for taking so long to give you the latest update. Since returning home to NJ I have been running around like a loonytune with my little guys, trying to get ready for Christmas, and even had some minor surgery of my own! And, Yes, I am fine. lol.
Now for the news that you actually came to read.... DAD IS HOME!!! He actually came home last sunday (12/5). He miraculously made it home less than 2 weeks post-op!!! We are still amazed. I know that is the expected hospital recovery period... but with my dad we have unfortunately learned to be prepared for the worse. As sad as it is to say.... that is what this year has been like. Anyway, times are changing and I now believe in 2 gods... the one with the master plan.... and Dr Pettersson!!!! I only got to meet with him briefly just after the surgery.... however he did visit with my dad quite a number of times. He, his staff, Dr Hammer, and my dad's cardio here in NJ are all very happy with my dad's results. There's no leakage of any sort. Very exciting news. Scott... you are so very right.... my Dad looks MUCH better since the surgery. He kidney and liver were a mess pre-op.... but they have managed to correct themselves. Amazing what a little oxygenated blood can do for a body!!! lol
After Dr Pettersson removed my dad's aorta he sent it to the lab to get cultured and sure enough Staph grew. Unknown how long its been lingering in my dad... but its been mentioned that it could possibly be the reason that the surgery in Feb didn't work. So, anyway, my Dad has a pic line and goes for daily vancomycin treatments. He's having some prostate issues and just had his catheter removed today. And he complains of his right hand hurting him (apparently caused by a muscle from the way he was opened up... he's been told it is a fairly common side effect). But other than that.... he is definitely on the mend. Slowly but surely he'll get to where he was this time last year!
Scott, thanks so much again for visiting with my dad. You truly are a special person. It was really nice meeting with you in person.
Well, folks, that is the latest report from NJ. I hope to have more good news for you soon.
Take care, keep warm, and stay healthy!!!
I am very excited to go up with my family tomorrow so we can spend the day with him.