Update from UVa

Update -- Thursday, May 24th


The surgery today was successful - the doctor said better than expected.  He found that the aneurysm was located only on one side of the aorta, so his repair was less complicated than he thought.  They stinted and cleaned out the functioning kidney and removed the non-functioning kidney.

She is resting in the ICU - heavily sedated and on a ventilator.  They will keep the her on the ventilator into tomorrow.  Because of the kidney repair, they want to closely monitor her input and output, and they can do that most easily with the ventilator breathing for her. The ICU nurse said she is doing great - her vitals are good.  She
looks good, and even though she is sedated, we are sure that she can feel our (and your) love.  Thank you for your thoughts and prayers - we are feeling the support, whether from near or far.

It was a LONG day - Dad and I are getting ready to get some rest at the Hospitality House.  Kathy is staying at the Hospital overnight and will check on Mom periodically.  For feeling so drained right now, we definitely feel blessed.  Blessed that the surgery was successful and is over.  Blessed for the support of family and friends.  Blessed for a caring and expert hospital staff.  Blessed.

We will stay in touch with updates.