my sons friends heart

[NancyMVP]

My son recently made friends with another boy. They have pretty close friends for the last year.
I learned he had 2 open heart surgeries when he was an infant. I don't know the defect but recently he wasn't feeling well.
We just learned he is going to need a heart. I think hes not in immediate danger. But the problem is his size. They say he needs a child size. Oh his friend is 12 my son is 13.

 

[hensylee]

It is bad enough for adults to have to go through this, but when it is a child, our heartstrings are tugged big time. This is so sad, but thank your young son for being his friend. He will learn much from his buddy about life while this is happening. The young man is in my prayers.

Jessica O had a transplant. Don't know if you remember her, but you can look her up in member profile and read her posts if you care to.

 

[Ross]

One of my best friends is having similiar problems with his heart. I don't know the exact nature of his problems, though they are many, but he had 2 operations as an infant and ongoing procedures throughout the years. He is now 40 and the Doctors are talking about him needing a new heart also. His internal heart plumbing is quite different from a normal persons and it makes everything difficult. Terry doesn't talk too much about it. I keep telling him that he's either extemely complacent or petrified and silent. He's much braver then I. I would have to talk these things out or I'd go nuts.

It's good that this friend of your sons has come across your paths. Perhaps you can help him with his feelings and such.
If you can, keep us posted as to what developes. I know it's usually not easy with children because the information doesn't just fall in your lap.

 

[NancyMVP]

I asked his mom if he knows whats going on. She said he seems to be taking it okay, a little too bit well if you know what I mean. He wanted surgery so he could get better. They are getting a second opinion from Boston Children's Hospital. She says one of the best. Hopefully, they will have a better idea. Otherwise, they will see if he can get on a list for a transplant. Although they may have to wait till he is sicker.

And I thought I had problems.

 

[medtronic of borg]

concerned

concerned

I posted a very long letter to you yesterday, but I see it never made it up. In a nut shell I can relate...I am not on the list yet but am told that is next. I am listed as terminal. And the heart I will be needing will have to come from a youth and be of a difficult blood match. The boys are at a difficult age anyway and let me tell you it will make it more so.

I was born with several defects and as I grew up new ones came up. I have had 17 heart surgeries all but two were emergencies.

I also offer to your son and his friend an ear. I say that because I reciently learned what my heart troubles ment to my best friend. He and I have been friends since 4th grade...we are now 40 years old.

I did not realise how scared it made him .

He can be thankfull that he will not have a thoracotomy. They make you look like a butcher got to ya. His old scar may be well faded...a new one may become an issue in the locker room at school.

But I and a couple of other CHDers on this page can offer some understanding and support to some of the issues they will be facing.

Medtronic

 

[NancyMVP]

Hi borg thanks for your letter.
My son said he tagged along to the doctor with his friend last Thursday. It was the first time he saw his friends scar.
His friend actually had emergency surgery when he was born. And another after. I don't really know the details of his defect. I know they have that thing that checks the oxygen.
My sons said his was 99. His friend was like 72. The doctors also want him to lose weight. I'll keep you updated on how things go.