Greetings from Boston.
It’s been some years—more than 10—since we lived here, but some things, thankfully, haven’t changed. The people here are still great. It is still a beautiful city. And it still has some of the best medical facilities in the world.
The trip up was difficult. I find traveling stressful at the best of times, and in my current condition, I felt that even more. By the time we arrived yesterday evening, I was exhausted. I’m never especially comfy in hotels, and while this one is perfectly fine, I slept horribly. But I did get some rest in fits and starts, and was looking forward to having a day off today to wander around.
Unfortunately, my capacity for wandering is severely reduced. We made it to Copley Place, with a pit stop at the awesome and awe-inspiring Boston Public Library. Had some lunch, and then just came back to the hotel.
My appointment tomorrow is at 1:00. We’re supposed to arrive a half-hour early for paperwork (I assume). Then they will give me the stress test, and I see Dr. Desai at 2:30.
From what I can gather, there are basically three things that he could tell me:
- I need to be on medications, and after some period of time (months), he’ll see me again to see how well they’re working.
- I need one of a few possible surgeries. The most likely would be an open-heart surgery where they reduce some of the thickness in the walls of my heart and try to fix the valves.
- I need a heart transplant ASAP. Or at some point in the future when the medications stop working.
It could also be some combination of the above. I’d like to say I’m prepared for whatever he says, but I’m not. I know the news won’t be good, but I can’t accept that it might be quite bad.
I’m scared. I’m more grateful than I’ve ever been (and that’s saying a lot) for my husband. I couldn’t be doing this without him. His encouragement and support is amazing.
And my friends? I can’t say enough about how much their unending well of kindness, good mojo, love, prayers, chocolate, and baby animal pictures means to me.
I can’t promise I’ll post again tomorrow because I’m just not sure what kind of state I’ll be in, but I’ll try.
I’m pulling for you Erin! I hope the least bad of the alternatives is the one Dr. Desai goes with!
I’m wondering if a pacemaker might be an additional (and far less invasive) option. That’s what they did when my uncle was diagnosed. That said, his heart muscle continues to grow thicker, so that, too, seems like a temporary solution. I’m hoping for the best possible outcome for you, Erin!
It is a possibility, but from what I understand, wouldn’t be an option by itself, but rather would be part of one of the other options. And it’s probably one of my least favorite treatment options (I have something of a phobia about having metal implanted in me, but I’ll get over it if needs must).
You have researched well; your doctors seem to be the best; your attitude is good; your support system is fantastic; no matter what, all will be well. Stay strong and continue to live life the best you can day by day.
Love you Erin, we are here for you.
Am sending you all the love and and all the light, Baby Girl. <3 Big Hug, Erin!! xx Marie
I’m scared too for you. I wish I could be there to support you. I’m glad you are in s city familiar to you, no matter how many years, you know the intelligence and the strength and knowledge in that city. You have made the best decision for your treatment and care.
You are always on my mind. I’m so rooting for you.
many hugs and much love 😘😘😘
Thinking about you and hoping for the best possible news.
Sending comforting thoughts your way. You’ve got this; whatever the outcome tomorrow, I know you’ll be grand.
I’ll be thinking of you tomorrow. Whatever the results are, you’ll find a way to cope. You always have before. Much love from here. xxoo
We’re thinking of you, and we’re in your corner–always.
You’re a tough lady, and sensible, for even a tough lady would be scared. It’s only natural. Just stay focused on the end game which is doing whatever it takes to beat this. We’re all pulling for you.
The good news here is that the wheels are in motion to regain your health, and I truly believe that is exactly what the outcome, whatever path is taken, will be. A healthy Erin, without limitations. God bless and keep you, dear girl. May tomorrow bring news of one of the better paths. Prayers for you, your husband, and your doctor.
We’re only FB friends, but I’ll be holding a majorly good thought for you, Erin!
I’m sending you lots of love Erin! I hope the news tomorrow is one of the better case scenarios. I will be keeping positive thoughts going for you tomorrow. I’m so glad you have a great hubby helping you through this process.
FolloWing your journey with trepidation and the best of wishes.
Thinking of you.
Hope it all goes well ….and at least you’ll know the next steps. Hugs, woofs, and meows from all of us as you continue on this journey.
Thinking of you… we’ll all be anxious to hear how the appointment went, but only update us when you’re up to it. In the meantime, many thoughts and prayers to you.
We’re with you, Erin!! Sending all love and positive vibes!