Thursday, March 12, 2009

Google-ing Coarctation of the Aorta

OK. Well, I haven't gone down to see Gavin yet, but I wanted to do some Google-ing first. I now have a few more questions to ask the doctor and a few more worries--as Google-ing is wont to create. The ER doctor mentioned stress to Gavin's biscuspid valve, for example, and I need to follow up asking about that. It is good to be informed. Most of what I read, has been exactly what I've been told on this end. But the info helps me process all of this. The two websites I found helpful are: http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/heart-encyclopedia/anomalies/coarctation.htm and http://www.healthatoz.com/healthatoz/Atoz/common/standard/transform.jsp?requestURI=/healthatoz/Atoz/ency/coarctation_of_the_aorta.jsp
There is a picture on the first one.
The purple area indicates the place where Gavin's coartaction is located. It sounds like he's pretty much a textbook case. Very treatable, though recurrence is quite possible, which is also very treatable.

6 comments:

Beth said...

Heather,
I couldn't believe my eyes as I read about Gavin being at Children's Hospital. You, Gavin and your family are in our prayers. Please keep us posted. I love you!

Shila said...

Hey man, what is going on with our family? I was shocked to hear that Gavin was having a heart problem and in Seattle Childrens from Shane last night. I thought he must have gotten it wrong. Thank you for all your info on your blog! It is great that you have John and Mimi who do know all the ropes and the dr.'s and nurses there. That has got to be a comfort. We love you and little Gavin! How's Tim and the kids doing? I know they are still in school, I can at the very least bring some dinner. Hang in there!

Anne said...

I'm glad to hear he is getting the surgery sooner than later. You are being such a trooper, so brave. I'll never forget crying my eyes out when Eli had to be under the light bed for jaundice. I was so scared and worried, and that was such a small thing! experience goes a long way, especially having Mia to draw from, but I know it has to be excruciating, still. We are all thinking of you and praying for you.

Unknown said...

Heather,
Our prayers are with your family. Tom and I understand what you and Tim are going through. Carl was 8 weeks old when he was admitted to Children's. The wait is certainly hard. It sounds like you are getting great support. Children's is the best place to be--great doctors. If you need anything or just want to talk, call.

Rachel said...

Thanks for the updates. Please let me know if there is ANYTHING I can do to help.

John Boy said...

Hey glad to hear that events have been pushed up to tomorrow. Better to get it fixed and out of there! It is crazy crazy to see pics of you and Tim with those orange parent neclace/tag things. Can't believe you are there! Like Shila said, what the heck is up with this family??? We have been so drama free for so long! One of us needs to write a book. Well, you look good. Your spirits seem to be up from what I see in your pic. I still think it is nuts that you are there, and that you get the same surgeon as Mia! You can feel very confident knowing that Gavin's surgeon is skilled, he does heart transplants! This should be a simple surgery for him and sounds like you will be out of there in no time. Anything you need? I have a packed Saturday, but if you need help with the kids on Sunday I am sure I could take a shift. Good luck tomorrow!