Healthy Hearts Reunion

Sam and me with matching
ladybug stickers on our faces

We had the privilege of going to Chapel Hill last Saturday for a Healthy Hearts Reunion hosted by UNC Hospital. It was such a special time of seeing other young children who have survived heart issues thanks to the hard work of cardiac surgeons and cardiologists.

Unfortunately, we didn't get to see Sam's cardiologist there. However, we did run into Sam's surgeon, who implanted his defibrillator over a year ago. He he knew exactly who Sam was and even remembered very specific details of the circumstances surrounding Sam's surgery. He said his most vivid memory was of coming into our hospital room the morning after the surgery and asking if everything was okay. Bill and I both said in unison, "NO!" Then he learned about Sam's defibrillator shocking him 20 times in 24 minutes.

Sam and his surgeon, reunited

He also said that Dr. Buck, Sam's cardiologist, keeps him in the loop. He said, "I hear it's likely that we'll be needing to do another surgery some time soon," which sent Bill into a tailspin. Bill had heard my report of our last cardiology visit, but he still didn't believe it was "likely" that Sam will need another operation soon. Regardless, Sam's surgeon said that he's been thinking about it a lot and would like to make the incision at Sam's side, rather than through his chest. It will make for an easier recovery and will get the job done.

So, we go for another appointment with Dr. Buck on May 28th and will learn how Sam's defibrillator is doing. If the numbers are going up, we will likely continue to wait and watch. If the numbers go down, he will "likely" need surgery. The good news about it is that Sam's surgeon has been mulling it over and thinking about it for a while. Plus, he actually seemed excited about it - as though this is a big challenge that he can't wait to tackle. We know that Sam was the smallest patient that this surgeon had ever performed surgery on at that point (by himself). We also know that Sam was the youngest patient he's ever implanted a defibrillator in. So, there you have it. I definitely want this doctor to perform this surgery, IF it has to happen, because he knows us and knows Sam's body well. I remember that he said he "mapped" 40% of Sam's heart while he was performing the last surgery. I realize we could transfer that information to another surgeon, but why should we when we have someone who's already been there and touched Sam's heart. He touched ours too.