Trevor,

My thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless you.

Elaine

Trevor,

My prayers are with you. Know that God is with you and will take care of you.

Melany

Trevor,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and all of those around you.

Keep on tickin!
Adam Pick

Hi Trevor, You're down to less than 12 hours now. Soon the surgery will be history. We are praying for you and will be anxiously awaiting news tomorrow. God has promised that He will be with you and provide you with the strength and peace you need.
Love,
Linda and Tom

Trevor,

I'm 6 weeks post op. I'll be praying for you and your entire surgical team tomorrow! Will be anxious to hear the great things the Lord will do! Have a restful night knowing the Lord has everything under control!

Blessings,Carla

Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (OR included) Joshua 1:9

Hey Bud!

I know we just talked but remember I am praying for you! It will all be over soon, and before you know it we'll be hanging out next weekend. Proud of you, little brother. You're going to do great.

Love, Trent

Trevor,

Best wishes for you this week for your surgery and rapid recovery. I hit 4 weeks post op on Wednesday, and i hope your recovery is as rapid and easy as mine has been thus far. You are going into this with the right frame of mind, and it will not be long till you are feeling wonderful again..

Take care this week..

Mark
Keller, TX

Trevor,
We are praying for you......God is amazing and he will take very good care of you. Put all your trust in Him. Someday soon this will be a memory from your past and we will take "the Nelson Family" to the lake and go tubing/skiing behind the boat. Trevor, great times are ahead of you. We look forward to being part of your life and the fun times in your future.
Love, The Blumes

Hi Trevor,
I am so excited to see you next weekend. God has carried you through this so far and he will continue. I'm so thankful that he's prepared your mind and body so well for this and I can't wait to see how he blesses you in your recovery. Anyway, I'll be thinking about you tomorrow morning as I board a plane from Baltimore to Denver!
Lots of love & prayers!
Martha

Hi Trevor

Wishing you good luck and letting you know you are difinitely still in my prayers. As a fellow patient I feel so confident you will be just fine but as a parent I would wish to be able to take away all your pain. I am 8 mos post-op now and I can say I feel so much better now that the surgery is behind me. You will too. I pray for you to enter a calm and relaxed state and just get it done. Will be looking forward to your mom's posting. God bless.

Cheryl, Ontario

Trevor,
Good luck on your surgery....we will be thinking and praying for you. I also want to say I understand completely as a parent what it feels like for your child to have this surgery. My daughter had open heart surgery at 20 months old and it was the most stressful time of my life. She is now 23 years old working on her Masters degree in college. You will do just fine, I can not wait to hear you are home recovering. You will be an inspiration with your strong spirit and faith.
Good luck,
Theresa Callanan

Trevor,
I'm praying for you. I know you are a strong person, definitely someone we all can look up to. I know I will draw strength from your strength and courage when it will be time for me to have surgery. I wish you all the best.
Patrick in STL

Hi, Trevor! Madilyn had so much fun swimming with you yesterday! Troy and I will see you tomorrow, and Madilyn can't wait until she can see you next weekend when you are home and well on the road to a speedy recovery:) We love you and are sending lots of prayers to Madison!

Troy, Jess, and Madilyn (we can't forget Kirby and Gracie, too!)

Well, it's almost here, the day you've prepared for. Hope someone will be writing your journal until you're able to take over the keyboard again. Am praying your surgery and recovery will be successful. You have age on your side to aid in the healing process. This time next week you may even be discharged and it will be full steam ahead to a healthy heart.
Fran Z

Good luck kid !! My family's thoughts and prayers are with you.

Greetings Trevor,
Just had the opportunity to catch up on your last couple of weeks. It sounds like you have a great team of professionals prepared to do the surgery and lead you through that important rehab process. They are confident about what they do and they are no doubt blessed assisting you in this way. You will be a great patient and a quick study. Of course you have so many cheerleaders and prayer warriors who will lift you up for the Heavenly Father's healing touch. Your folks will be right there for you I know that for sure. Our prayers will be for your complete recovery, peace and assurance. This journey is requiring you to grow up fast and you are exhibiting maturity and strength. We love you. Tom and Sue

Trevor,

Maybe you should come out for a Tiger game :)Good luck with your surgery. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.

Wendy, Kurt, Lauren & Lia

Hi Trevor

You may not be calm, calm so busy is a great substitute. Enjoy those games and experiences to their fullest. Busy hands are happy hands.

Cheryl, Ontario

Hi Trevor,
I am wishing you the absolute best on your upcoming surgery. You probably don't remember, but I have surgery the day after you do. I had my pre-op today. So everything is a go from here. I am finding it harder to stay calm the closer the day gets even though I am also excited at the new life I will have after my repair. Today my dr. prescribed Valium. He wants me to take one of two the night before surgery to make sure I sleep although I have never taken it before so am a little leary...
You are in my prayers and I look forward to reading your posts to come!
Kimberly S.

Thinking of you this week Trevor, can't wait to see you very very soon! :)

Love, Martha

Trevor
Looks like you're doing your best to stay busy, especially doing the things you seem to enjoy. Did you ever donate your blood when you were at the hospital for testing? I know you had mentioned it a while ago. I don't know that more than a few have mentioned getting transfused post op. I was, and felt no qualms about getting blood that was not my own. The time will go fast until June 1st. A week from today it'll be behind you and you can go forward with a "new" heart.
Fran Z

Hi Trevor!

I'm a Cubs fan too! And I used to live in Ames. ( Small world). I loved going to the AAA games in Des Moines and, of course,Wrigley. Enjoy it!

I had surgery last Thursday and am getting released today! My experience has been great and. I wish yours is even easier than mine.

Enjoy this week . . . It WILL go fast.

Ricki Shine

Hi Trevor,
Great journal. Nursing is great but I have always felt and still do that a Cardiologist is what your are cut out to be. We will talk with Mom & Dad on OR day. We will see you probably on Thursday after your surgery. Dr.D seems like a good fit for you and his team will be there to answer questions, calm those fears and be all around supportive. Brad and I will be following you with Love and Prayers. We Love You, Brad & Jo

Trevor,
I cannot even begin to tell you how helpful your last journal entry was. I am having my surgery 1 day after you and have my pre-op on Wed. But reading all the steps you explained were amazing. Tomorrow is my CAT with the dye in my veins and it helped me to know that I may experience some burning.
You seem very mature for your age and your faith is important to you. You will do great!
My thoughts and prayers are with you and I look forward to reading about your successful surgery and recovery:)
Kimberly S.

Hi Trevor

Well, looks like you didn't miss a thing. When you were describing what was being said to you it put me back to when I was going through the same phase. I remember just feeling cold and somewhat alone even though my dear husband was with me. 100 people could be there with you but the final stage is you, your faith, the doctor and his staff and God and many, many people lifting you up in their prayers. Stay strong and believe.

Cheryl, Ontario

Trevor,
You Seem to have had a complete presentation of what will happen during your procedure. I found it was best to understand everything that was going to happen...even though I was not in control...it made me feel prepared. Your age should definately be on your side...I will be praying for you .
Theresa Callanan

Hi Trevor
Looks like you have all the info you'll need and presented in a manner you can understand. By the way you probably won't need the pain meds to use the spirometer. Its' use may actually help to ease some pain you might have! As I said before, your age, health and faith will get you through. Something to think about. My husband and both daughters traveled to Cleveland to be with me during my surgery. I asked one of my daughters to keep a journal for me. It tarted the morning of my surgery until my discharge. It was great to see what happened when I was still medicated and wasn't aware. Even afterwards there were things I would have forgotten if they hadn't been recorded. Something to think about.
Fran Z

Trevor,
I appreciate your detailed update. For me, it really helps in knowing exactly what I will have to go through when it's my time. I'm wishing the best for you. You have a great head on your shoulders and the fact that you are at peace with it really helps me be a little more peace at it too.
Patrick in STL

Hi Trevor

Loved the lists which show your great sense of humour. Yes, you will be the subject of many a conversation for time to come and that scar is going to be a great conversation opener. The catheter isn't so bad - just think you won't have to get up to go! On the good side that is one of the first things to be removed so you can tag that sucker #2 after the ventilator. Tell the doctor to take the ventilator out before you wake up if possible. Many of us haven't worken up with that darn thing still in. Good luck.

Cheryl, Ontario

Hi Trevor, having lived with the scar for over 30 years, I can tell you that it's not a big deal after a while. You'll get used to it pretty quick. You will look pretty weird at the pool though! Your surgery is on my birthday, so you will be on my heart and in my prayers all day. You're in good hands, stay strong. Kim Randles

Trevor
You are one special young mam. With the Lord on your side and your faith you will succeed in all you do. You obviously see the glass as half full. Not always an easy task. Just have one comment on your lists, which were excellent. Do not worry about the pain, that will be taken care of by the capable staff, they deal with this all the time. They are the experts and you will have to put yourself in their hands and listen and do whatever they tell you. Praying for you.
Fran Z

Hi Trevor!

Love your Top 10 Lists! I agree with most (not sure about the full body shave thing!)

Focus on your positive list.
Ricki Shine

Hi Trevor

School is finished tomorrow for you, yahoo! I wished I could put more enthusiasm behind that yahoo, but we both know what's up for your summer - a refiguring of the 6-pack! On the bright side though it sounds as if you have some quality time lined up with grandma and how special can that be?

Taking your music is paramount to relaxation and a good book or magazine will also come in handy. What about a journal to keep track of your thoughts, questions and guests etc. Lots of little things come up that you might want to jot down and sometimes you are a little foggy to remember what happened or who came by.

Good luck on the finals. Keeping you in my prayers.

Cheryl, Ontario

Hi Trevor
Couple of more days and school is over, assume you'll get great grades. You seem like a person who has goals and accomplishes them. A month from now you will be home and on the way to a complete recovery from your heart surgery. Your faith, age and family and friends will get you through it. Oops, can't forget the surgical team. I pray that God will guide their hands for you.
Fran Z

Hi Trevor, Know you have been hitting the study time hard. Trust all the recall is there, you are doing so well in school I am sure. We promise to pray for your surgery and for the wonderful Dr. and staff who will be part of the team. Be sure and tell them that you are somewhat impressed by the Green Bay Packers and the post Favre era, even though you are a Vikings fan! Love, Tom and Sue.

Trevor:

Nothing more important than earplugs and eye mask if you want any sleep at all! Noisy and bright in the hospital at all hours.

Jim in Tucson

Hi Trevor,
I had mitral repair surgery on March 2, 2010 and am now in cardio rehab. I was on linispril and another heart drug before surgery. I stopped all medication a day or two before surgery. So I am sure they will give you instructions before your surgery. I brought books and an ipod to the hospital. I could not concentrate to read,but the books came in handy once I got home. I did read some magazines, they seemed easier to page through. I really did not use much of what I brought to the hospital...I stayed in the hospital gowns(front and one worn in opposite direction) up until the next to last day. I used some facial wipes, deodorant etc.. When I got home, I watched two seasons of Mad Men and two seasons of ER...so I know Seinfeld will be a good idea.
You sound like a positive person and I am sure you will do well.I will say a prayer for you.
Theresa Callanan

Hi Trevor

Waiting is hard as we all know. I'm glad you managed to get this semester done before your surgery too. You'll have all summer to get back on your feet. I hope you have a great visit with your brother - you're obviously close to him. You sound like such a well grounded son - I'll bet your folks are super proud. Keep positive. Being young and in good shape will help you recover quickly. Praying for you.

Cheryl, Ontario

Hi Trevor,
This is Aunt Barb again. I've been reading all your posts, but haven't written for awhile. I have a little diversion up my sleeve if we can work it out. You may know that Ryne Sandberg is now managing the Iowa Cubs (briefly he hopes!), and they have a home stand in Des Moines in late May. I'm hoping that you and your dad can make it out here for a game after you finish school and before your surgery. Sound possible?
I'm so proud of you in your postings! You are an awesome young man--and I'm a proud aunt! God bless!! Love, Aunt Barb

Hi Trevor,

I just ran across your journal and wanted to drop you a line. I am a 51-year-old pastor in Winter Haven, Florida and had mitral valve repair surgery Jan. 28, so I'm just over 11 weeks post-op. Like you (though not at your level or age) I have been a runner and an athelete until last October when, during a routine exam, my family doctor detected a heart murmur. Life chaning. It's been an amazing journey, with some ups and downs, but God has always shown us His presence and given us His peace. With your strong faith, I know that you too will sense those just as we have. We embrace the truth of Romans 8:28 as more than just theoretical. The waiting and the countdown is hard; it's really good that you're so busy. I have signed up for your updates and will keep you in my prayers. Contact me if there is anything I can do for you.

Duane Hunt, FL

Good to hear from you. Hope you have a wonderful visit with your brother. I have 5 siblings and wasn't able to see them this past weekend at a family wedding in MA. Too soon after surgery (March 18). What would we do without family? You will have a summer trip to look forward to after you are all recovered. Having goals gets us through as you know, being a student. We lived in Davenport, IA for several years and always looked forward to spring after the long winter. Take care.
Fran Z

Hi Trevor,

Thank you for sharing your story. You certainly are an inspiration. Your positive outlook is admirable. I think there are more fellow bicuspids out here than the medical field realizes. We are the lucky ones who know about it.

Your mom has certainly raised a fine young man. God bless.

Elaine Spiewak

Hi Trevor. I have your post opt and surgery date on my calendar! However, I will keep praying up till then - as I have already started.

We will all see God's power thru this I KNOW!

Love you lots,

Tom and Sue

Hi Trevor

Butterflies or not, you are sounding pretty confident and that is a super good thing. Recovering is a heck of a way to spend your summer but it beats losing any time from school and actually shouldn't be all that bad. In no time you will be well enough to go out with your friends - carefully - and have some fun to boot. Good luck on your finals.

Cheryl, Ontario

Good Morning Trevor
Knowledge is a wonderful thing. Like myself, you will be going into the hospital well prepared with what to expect. All the info will help you at all 3 stages. Pre, during and post. With no bumps in the road you'll soon be home in early June. Waiting can be frustrating but He hasn't already done so, God will teach you patience. He did for me. Keep posting as time goes by.
Fran Z

Good Morning Trevor

Thanks for keeping us updated, Trevor! We love you!
Troy, Jess, and Madilyn

Hey Trevor - thanks for sharing your life story with us - I am confident the Lord will bring you through this and you will go on to help others in similar situations. I expect you to sail right through this surgery and recovery and move on to alot of fun things quickly. We will be thinking of you and praying for you often - before, during and after the surgery. See you soon. Love, Peg

Trevor, It was so great to read your journal. Your mom sent me the link :-). As you share your journey with us, please know that we are praying for you. It has been fun to see how God has led you into nursing and just talking with you about what you are learning and experiencing. This experience will for give you a whole new side of the medical field-"a patient". When you go back to working with people again, there will be a side of you that would never have developed if you didn't go through this. This will also stretch you spiritually. I see from the verses you have chosen to close each day with, you are growing in your relationship with God. Keep writing-there will be many who journey along side of you in the days ahead. Love you! Cheryl

Hey Trevor!! What a neat website!!! I loved reading all your blogs. Plus now I understand better what it is you are and will be going through. Know that the Freiberg clan is thinking of you and keeping you in our prayers. Dick & D'Anna