We learned Friday that Arleen must have heart surgery to repair a mitral valve defect. This is a big operation that takes a long time to recover from.
Arleen is the main breadwinner in this household, and we will have to scramble while she recuperates, to stay afloat. There are fairly severe limits on my own stamina (I won’t go into detail), and the prospect ahead looks pretty tough for both of us.
(The good news is, after a year or so, she can expect to feel quite a bit better than she feels now. We just have to get her safely and securely through the transition.)
Please, whatever supportive thoughts and prayers you can send in our direction, we very much need and appreciate.
Jerry-- our thoughts and prayers are with you and Arleen.
You mentioned that you will need to be separated for a while: where will Arleen be?
Over the years, I have had MANY patients with replacement or repaired heart valves. While is is indeed a serious operation, the good news is that the vast majority of them work out excellently. If Arleen is strong and in good health otherwise, she should come through with flying colors. Hang strong, Jerry- those kids need you. Paul
Paul, I don’t know if we’ll be separated. That wasn’t what I meant to convey, and I apologize for being unclear. I have health issues of my own that limit my stamina to take care of her and manage the household. I can do it, but it will be hard. Arleen is very strong, and otherwise in excellent health. Again, I’m grateful for your thoughts and prayers.
Jerry, sorry to hear this! Prayers and thoughts will go only so far, so we can do more!
I am going to run a raffle to benefit you and your family. I hope it will be able to raise enough funds to at least ease the difficulty of her recovery time. Give me a couple of days to come up with the details. I will, of course, contribute at least a couple of instruments and my time. Anyone willing to donate instruments to this raffle, please contact me.
I don’t pray, but whatever it is I do in its stead, I will do for you and your wife in the days to come. Please accept my best wishes for your wife’s prompt recovery.
