Nikki's New Lungs

Unfortunately, yesterday my dad was not able to get any relief. When the surgeon wanted to see us about an hour in to the two hour procedure, we knew something wasn’t right.

His main artery, the one that is blocked the most out of the three, has so much calcification of plaque that a stent is not an option at this point. When they attempted to open the blood vessel with the balloon, it couldn’t properly inflate. The doctor had to stop to prevent it from perforating.

Post surgery, after his blood work was back in the normal range, they could finally remove the sheath around 9:30 PM last night. He had already been laying flat since 10:30 AM. After the sheath was removed he still had to lie flat for another four hours!

My dad was in good spirits considering the outcome. The nurses said “this one is a jokester” as he would give everyone a chuckle when they walked in his room.

He will be on medication for the next three weeks at least. At that point, the doctor will re-evaluate his situation. The artery that was compromised yesterday needs time to heal. The only possibility left is to drill through the plaque just like a mini roto-rooter. It is very risky and we’re not sure if it is an option, but at this point we will remain optimistic.

Thank you for all the messages, good thoughts, and prayers.

For all the times my dad has waited to hear if a procedure of mine has started and then waited to hear if I was in recovery, I’m now waiting with him in the pre-op room. He has been having some heart issues over the last several months that have progressively made him more and more short of breath and exhausted. Wow, do I remember that feeling. Three of his arteries are almost 80% blocked. Unfortunately, by-pass is not an option for him as his arteries are just too small to reach the requirement of a successful outcome. 

Today, we are sitting with him while he waits to have yet another angiogram with the hopes of some relief to his breathing. They are not sure if they will be able to place any stents, but we are hopeful they can do something so he can feel somewhat better. 

I have to admit, sitting and waiting is very stressful. I’m happy I can be here for him and the rest of my family. And I appreciate everyone who has sat and waited and prayed for me over the years.