Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Appointment after appointment

I thought it might be interesting to some of you to have a glimpse of Kevin's visits at Mayo.  As of today, we have been doing this for a week now and have three more days of testing or visits, including today.  Here is a list of some of most of his appointments.
  • Labs, labs, and more labs ( I will leave out the details)
  • Electrocardiogram
  • Chest x-ray
  • Heart transplant consultation
  • Echocardiogram
  • Exercise Test
  • Skeleton Bone Survey
  • Renal Function Test
  • Body CT
  • Arterial Blood Gas
  • Pulmonary Function w/dilator
  • Bone Densitometry
  • Ultrasound of the Abdomen
  • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
  • Social Worker
  • a Walk test
  • two Cardiologists from the transplant team
  • Infectious Disease Visit
  • Upper Endoscopy
  • Pulmonary & Critical Care 
Right now he is having a Cardiac Cath.  It will be done with local anesthesia, unlike yesterday when he was sedated for his Upper Endoscopy.  I've never seen him sedated before.  Kind of strange to see him without all his mental capacities working.  Sometimes it was a little funny.  When he finally felt better after a LONG nap, he asked, "Where did the wheelchair come from?"  I chuckled.  I had pushed him from the 9th floor of the Gonda building and two blocks to our room.  He was quite embarrassed, not because he didn't remember, but because I had wheeled him. :)

Tomorrow and Friday he will see: Psychiatry, Dietician, Hematology, another heart transplant evaluation discussion, meet with the transplant surgeon, Otorhinolaryngology, Neurology, and last (deep breath), Esophagus X-ray.

Next Monday will be the BIG DAY when the entire team meets and decides how to proceed.  We have heard many options and will be anticipating the call that afternoon.  

Love you all and love your comments, 
Barbie

10 comments:

Darlene Anderson said...

I'm exhausted just reading your schedule!! Did you bring your vitamins and are you eating Wheaties every morning? It's wonderful Kevin is receiving such thorough attention and care by some of the best physicians in the world. I imagine by now you're "up to date" on the latest articles in People magazine.

I was able to have a little visit with your Mom last night at Elaine's get together. Your mother is real treasure, truly a beautiful woman. What a blessing for your daughters to have this opportunity to spend time with her.

Love to you both

Valerie said...

Thank you so much for updating us on Dr. Andersons condition. We really appreciate knowing how he is doing. Our hearts go out to you and your family.
Valerie, ORT

Anonymous said...

Kevin and Barbie,
Our thoughts and prayers are definitely with you as we are all anticipating the news on Monday! The lists of tests seems exhausting! I have a curious question though, Why would Kevin need to consult with an oral surgeon? I understand the Blood Gases, the EKG's etc but the oral surgeon seems to not fit the picture? How does that fit in?
I'm also impressed at how good you both look in the pictures especially after all you've gone through! Hang in there!
Linda

Jennifer Brailsford said...

We are curious to hear what the outcome will be with all of the tests and meetings that have proceeded. It amazes me the skills or gifts these doctors posses to be able to come up with the best treatment possible with so much information that is given to them. Modern science is fascinating!
Jennifer and John

marniandgarth said...

Wow you guys...I hate that you are going through this! We are praying for you and are here if the girls or Grandma need anything.

Marni and Garth

p.s. Don't be too hard on that treadmill Barbie.

Mindy said...

WOW!!! I wish I could have seen you wheeling Kevin down the street! The schedule is just crazy! It would wear anyone out! You are in our prayers every day. We love you!

Barbie said...

Marni and Garth,
Right now Robbie Boatman is mowing the lawn. Thank you for your offer. If at anytime he can't, I'll call you.

Thank you - barbie

Barbie said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Barbie said...

Linda,
The heart is sensitive to bacteria/infection from the mouth. Even though he had a cleaning and was cleared by our dentist at home, Mayo has their own D.D.S./M.D. to clear him.

Barbie

Anonymous said...

Dear Barbie and Kevin:

As I read your blog and experience the candor with which you share this life-changing experience I can't help but marvel at the strength and faith I am witnessing. I believe many people will be blessed through you both. I know I have. May you continue to feelthe Comforter's presence during this time. And keep up with the treadmill, Barbie.

My mother in law once gave me advice that I have never forgotten. Shortly after he husband was killed and we came out for the funeral I awoke to the sound of her coming down the stairs weeping. As she sat down on the last step and put on her sneakers to go for a run, she said to me: "I learned long ago that exercise reduces stress." It really does help. LOve, Effa