February 2, 2009

Blaze's surgery has been scheduled for February 20th, it will be in the morning. We will check in for pre-visit "stuff" on the 18th. This consists of things like a Echo, EKG, Chest X-Ray, Nasal Swab (for any illness), etc. The 19th Blaze will go in for a heart catheterization. This is a dye test to assess his situation. He will not be released from the hospital on the 19th since his surgery is the following day. The 19th will be hard, he will need to not move his leg for several hours following the test and will have to remain prone on the bed, but he will not be completely sedated. The open heart surgery on the 20th will eliminate the need for the shunt, thankfully, since Blaze's shunt seems to be closing. More about the surgery below.

His recovery time is supposed to be about a week following the surgery.

The second surgery is called the "Glenn" procedure. Basically they will re-route the blood flow in Blaze's body. They will make it so one artery is taken from the heart and connected to pulmonary circulation, or the lung "system" if you will. The shunt will be taken out. The lungs will have less pressure on them. This surgery really helps the upper half of the body. The third surgery will assist the lower half of the body, but that's a later discussion. Quality of life is supposed to improve, but I MUST say that Blaze has had EXCELLENT quality of life. He has never acted like a "heart baby". I believe that is due to your continued prayer support. We can't even begin to say "thank you." We appreciate the support and encouragement. It's what keeps us going.

Keep an eye on Blaze's website while we are in St. Louis! http://www.blazegilzow.com/