Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Barb,
It's 1:24 pm on 4/5/16. I'm out here physically but my mind and heart are far away. The thing keeping me grounded is being of service to the students so that is a blessing. It's the in-between times that I find myself floating away.
Will write later with something for your amusement!
Students awaiting knowledge...
With love from your sister,
Cynthia

Doreen posted a note for Barbara that says: Happy Birthday Barb, was thrilled to hear they were washing your hair as I knew that would mean a lot to you on your special day. Though I've never met your sister Cynthia, through reading all her posts to you I've come to adore her and her love for you. You are so blessed to have each other. We prayed for you during Sunday service yesterday so if you felt a special something yesterday morning that's what it was. We all love you Barb, keep fighting, keep resting, keep healing.

Haley Firmender posted a note for Barbara that says: Happy Happy Birthday A. Barbara!!

You are never far from our minds these days, we're constantly cheering you on!

You Rock!!!

We love you very much,

Haley and Christopher (and Blaze too, but he's currently sleeping on the floor next to us)

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: 7:02 pm eastern time. How do you think I reacted to learning that your hair is being washed? I'm such a goof as you would say, but a girl needs pampering on her birthday, especially a lovely lady such as yourself. 🎁🎈🎈🎈❤
I love you Barb!
Cynthia

Kristie posted a note for Barbara that says: HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you sweet sister! Hear that you are being pampered on your special day! Sending hugs and kisses to you...thoughts and prayers for you ever minute....thank you Dave for the updates...they certainly have eased my mind....you are doing a great job....squeeze her hand for me and tell her how much I love her! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Kristie posted a note for Barbara that says: HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you sweet sister! Hear that you are being pampered on your special day! Sending hugs and kisses to you...thoughts and prayers for you ever minute....thank you Dave for the updates...they certainly have eased my mind....you are doing a great job....squeeze her hand for me and tell her how much I love her! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Your favorite Asian niece posted a note for Barbara that says: Thinking of you both and sending love and prayers. <3

Jennifer posted a note for Barbara that says: Thank you for the update Dave. Please tell her that her cousin Jennifer loves her and is praying for her. I am also praying for you and all our family. I look forward to the next update.

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: April 4, 1:54 a.m. east coast time,

I'm in your fuuutttuuurre, Barb, so even though it's still only April 3 in CA, I can say -

Happy Birthday to YOU!
Happy Birthday to YOU!
I was born on a Tuesday!
And so-o were YOU!

Many happy returns of the day, Barb!
Giving thanks you're my sister.
With love,
Cynthia

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Barb,
Again, I find myself wanting to write to you using this forum so that during your recovery, you'll see your story from my perspective and because it gives me something to do for you. I spoke to Dave on the phone this afternoon (it's 8:38 pm on the east coast now), and I can't thank him enough for taking the time to talk to me. Nothing could take the place of hearing the tone of his voice ... for me at least, short of being there. Dave sounded good, strong, he's eating even when he doesn't necessarily want to and is staying hydrated. He's taking walks when he can, praying, keeping everyone informed, giving all due credit to your health care team, and even quoted a movie during our conversation which warmed my heart...that's the Barb and Dave Laurie way! He has all of the bases covered from stem to stern. You can be so proud of Dave!
Right now you are listening to worship music, thanks to Dave, and healing with every passing moment.
With love from your sister,
Cynthia

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Barb,
I'm writing because I want to document the last few days for you from my perspective.
I've lost track of time, so although it feels like I haven't written in your guestbook for a long time, my last post was just yesterday.
I've been practically paralyzed. Having no ability to be helpful, acting, doing, touching you, combined with the absence of non-verbal communication and hearing things first hand in order to comprehend what was happening (main reason texting is not for me) made yesterday a challenge.
Then the tide turned. A coworker whose brother had OHS last year sent me an email right after I received the news that you had been brought in for your second surgery. My arms were shaking and my brain had shut off to the point where I couldn't type out her address to see if she was available when HERS came in to me. GOD - THING, right? I met with her immediately since it was lunch time. She listened, didn't judge me being emotional and identified immediately why I was having a really hard time coping aside from the obvious. I could not do anything. Yes, prayer, tons (and begging too) but none of the action that I'm used to.
I had agreed to be the one advisor for a WCSU PAC trip to Boston today. I agreed despite my tendency to make sure everyone is okay before I commit to anything. Of course, I had no way of knowing what was to come. My friend and coworker said to me, 'You can't be with your sister right now, you can't be a comfort to your family because you are very emotional, go on the trip; keep your commitment and be of service to the students.'
After that, I went to my van and called Kristie. Her concerned but calm and realistic conversation with me was a real blessing. Back to work, home, laundry...and I actually slept.
Today I received messages and calls on the way to Boston. Kristie and Haley kept me up to date. Haley went so far as to get a message to Dave to let you know I love you and to ask if your care team was talking to you and touching you, soothing you. Yes to all which calmed me so much.
On one such call, I was sitting in a fancy Marriott hotel by the water when I saw the student assistant who had asked me to chaperone. She and her friend looked distressed. Turns out there was a situation involving an autistic student on the trip. He wasn't the problem, he just didn't have a buddy with him. I told her to call him to meet me and she should go on her way.
Another Godly intervention. No way should we have run into each other. I saw no other student all day. I met up with the young man and as soon as he said that spending the day with me was better than nothing and it amused me, I knew we'd be fine. A person was sent to me who I could relate to perfectly, maybe the only person today, in city 3 hours away, on a cold and rainy, and upsetting day, with whom I could be myself...an odd, friendly, geeky duck. We stared at the water, walked the North End, read EVERY historical sign and they are EVERYWHERE including in bathrooms (did you know Paul Revere was in charge of sanitation and ensured that everyone emptied their privies every two days?) , spoke with Park Rangers, visited the great hall, watched street performers, discussed my dislike of crowds, loud noises, elevators (which he spent considerable time trying to convince me is unreasonable! ) At some point he asked when I was born. I told him today...April 2, 1963. In about 3 seconds he said, 'oh, that was a Tuesday' then he explained how he knew that...perfectly logical...started explaining the math including exceptions like leap year. So I told him your birthday is Monday. Guess what? You were born on a Tuesday too! He is an extremely talented violinist and I'm officially invited to his next recital. His grasp of history is amazing but even I beat his knowledge occasionally! Today was one long geek fest so my friend was right. If I couldn't be of service where I thought I should be, being of service elsewhere made sense.
I received word heading home on the bus that you are showing real progress today, that Dave was delivered a godly man to support him, that your doctor was so satisfied with your strength that he finally went home to rest, that you are in the loving hands of your care team...This may have turned out to be the best birthday ever!
Can't wait to talk to you.
With love from your sister,
Cynthia

doreen posted a note for Barbara that says: Such good news, hope you get some rest Dave. She is a tough strong woman of God and she's bathed in prayer. God is good all the time.

Sue Gardner posted a note for Barbara that says: I had OHS 3 years ago and I am just driving home from 3 months in Florida. My second shot at living a good quality life has been beautiful. All I can tell you, Barbara, is that every day is a pleasure to have. You will recover quickly and go to a Cardiac Rehab where you will discover how much you are capable of doing. You will appreciate everything and everybody more than you ever thought possible even though I put myself in counseling to help me understand the trauma. I am thinking about you daily and look forward to hearing from you. I also was born with Ebstein's Anomaly and my valve was severe. My surgery was at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota.

Jennifer posted a note for Barbara that says: Praying for you both.

The Sue posted a note for Barbara that says: Praying for her Love you both

Doreen posted a note for Barbara that says: Oh dear, I'm so sorry to hear they had to take her back in. Though I know you probably don't feel it due to exhaustion, God is carrying and strengthening you and will give you all you need to make it through today. He also has Barb in the palm of His ever loving sovereign hands, and He will accomplish His perfect Will in both your lives through this ordeal. I encourage you to stand firm in the truth of His Word, and His glorious promises to us. Right now he encourages you to lay it all at the foot of His cross, let Him carry the stress and burden, and you will find rest. Will be praying for both of you.

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Dave,
It's 10:34 a.m. 4/1/16 here on the east coast. Moving between campuses today but checking in because there is nothing else I can do aside from praying.
Wanted you to know that I'm out here doing just that.
Love from your sister,
Cynthia

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Dave, (re-read your post) 3:50 a.m. east coast time now, (April 1),
The faulty ventilator must have been affecting her numbers? Blood pressure? Making it seem like a valve problem? But, no? God bless whoever recognized that mechanical failure. These questions aren't meant for you to answer now and won't matter once Barb is alert tomorrow ... waiting impatiently optimistically gratefully, your sister,
Cynthia

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Dave 2:24 a.m. April 1,
Thank you so much for your reply; turns out we are thinking the same thing so I'm childishly hoping that the two of us hoping it will make it so. I figured keeping her out was for just that reason, thanks for confirming,..... (pause).... actually just went out to see if you posted recently and yes you did!
No, not too many details...my experiences with Craig and my imagination and the distance = a mind scenario much worse than facts. Aside from my personal benefit from your detailed post, just think how many OHS patients and their families you will help by sharing the truth.
Thank God for Dr. Reddy finally being freed up, faulty 'anything' related to Barb's care, her coming to (aarrgghhhh!!! Thank God you were by her side)... I know she probably won't remember as you said but you will and I'm so sorry for that. I feel like I've been beat with a figurative bat so I multiply that by a thousand at least and there you are. Still, force yourself to drink and take at least a bit of food or she will kick both our behinds and you know it!
ALL those big brains and Reddy comes in and saves the day. Congratulations on remaining standing long enough for them to get you a chair. What you and she endured right then is no small thing.
If I'm understanding what I read through my brain fog it's this: lots of waiting and prolonged sedation for a test and just in case they had to go back in, some regurgitation but within acceptable limits (??? As in, good? ... acceptable for you and her too?), meds changed, blood gases checked, perhaps valve was a bit too tight but vitals got better so no need to reoperate.
Yes, Versed-type MED... think bumped up ativan (I'm no doctor, but I played one on TV) When is her short Barbara Streisand-like, NY, no nonsense nurse back on duty?
I'm going back to re-read your post.
Thank you SO much for keeping up with posting and for being Barb's rock (little known fact: rocks have knees and sometimes they knock).
I can't wait to hear the first smart aleck thing she says...about ANYTHING. Just really looking forward to that.
Love from your sister,
Cynthia

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: On pins and needles, numb and concerned, hoping that keeping her out this long is normal. Glad she is unaware...wondering if she had any idea she might be out this long. Relieved she is in good hands...trying to control my annoyance that waiting on the MRI is due to a backlog. ??? Good to hear the doctor is overall pleased and grateful for the updates. Will stay watchful for your next post.
Love,
Cynthia
P.S. 7:34 p.m. here on the east coast

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Dave,
1:37 p.m. here and just got back to my desk and your post. Mixed emotions. I'm glad that Barb is unaware; thrilled that everything went so well; anxious about the tests and extubation. Thank you for keeping the journal up to date. I hope you are doing well. I'll stand by for the next piece of good news!
Love from your sister,
Cynthia

Doreen posted a note for Barbara that says: Glory to God and praises to His name. I'm so happy for both of you that this surgery is over and went so well. We will be praying for a speedy recovery and His strength for both of you in the next few weeks. Love you both

Pino Correale posted a note for Barbara that says: Lots of good wishes and prayers for you Barbara. You made it with the help of God. Have a good rest now and an excellent recovery........you're in good hands.
All the best and take care........

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Dave!
It's 2:24 a.m. here on the east coast. So grateful for word.
Crying tears of relief! Thank you SO much for posting again! The fact that they were able to use Barb's own tissue...awesome! ! And the regurgitation so reduced?
Thank you God!
Do not fear if you experience a bit of a rollercoaster ride. You've just endured hours of extreme stress; now, a huge sense of relief, gratitude, more waiting, apprehension, going to ICU...but more gratitude and relief once you meet the people who will take such good care of her while you rest (do rest). Barb would want me to remind you so I will...hydrate! Barbara; you nailed it! Thank you
Dr. Reddy and Dr. Cambronero!!!!!!
Love from your sister,
Cynthia

Kate Davy posted a note for Barbara that says: Praying for the best during your surgery and recovery. I, too, have a tricuspid valve and will need surgery at some point when I have achieved medicare. I am currently without insurance as I am 66. Soon I will try again to gain medicare. So I will be anxious to hear your progress. It is my hope and prayer you have as much energy after successful surgery as you did in your twenties! Awesome!

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Dave,
Twenty-two steps to the bathroom. I know it's said 'a picture is worth a thousand words' but your six words painted a very complex picture for me. It's 1:13 a.m. here on the east coast. I pray that by now, someone has thought to update you.
Barb will be so glad and relieved (definitely pleased and most probably surprised! ) that you ate and are drinking. I, for one, would support compassionate care for loved ones who are waiting....and counting steps.
Love from your sister,
Cynthia

Terrie S. posted a note for Barbara that says: Dave and Barbara- Headed for bed at 9:57p.m with a prayer for you both that things have gone smoothly and you will have heard positive news that all went/is going well.
I also pray that this night brings you angels to watch over you both as you get some rest and wake to a beautiful day signaling the beginning of Barbara's healing time and her beginning this day with a healthier heart. Thank you for updating everyone and this community of Heart Brothers and Sisters. It is appreciated. Bless you both and all of those experiencing their own Heart Journeys.

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Thank you for the update, Dave. Please take care of yourself as you do what is one of the most difficult things in this world for a husband. Standing by. Thanks for being her warrior.
Love from your sister,
Cynthia

Lynne posted a note for Barbara that says: Lots and lots of hugs and prayers for you today! You are an amazing person.

Alina FH posted a note for Barbara that says: Thinking of you, my sweet and fragile heart friend, and praying that you're protected from all bad and on the way to much needed health! Many hugs and prayers from Utah. 💕💕

Doreen posted a note for Barbara that says: I'm thinking about you and praying that the Lord will guide the doctors hands and instruments, that His perfect will be accomplished in your life, that he grant you complete healing and a speady recovery. I pray he strengthen Dave and give you both a peace that surpasses understanding. I love you my dear friend, and will be praying throughout the day.

Jan McClain posted a note for Barbara that says: Barb, I will be thinking about you all day long. I wish I could be that butterfly in the OR, hovering over you, protecting you with my butterfly powers, oh jeez, this is sounding creepy, I've had too much coffee this morning. You are really an amazing person, so helpful to everyone on this site, I know you will do well, and you will be soooooo relieved and happy when this is over!! Dave, keep us posted!!!

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Barbara,
Sometimes seeing a lizard with a butterfly on its head is the answer. =-;-)
Wondrous, impossibly beautiful, surprising, nonsensical.
Thanks for the reminder to see beauty everywhere and that it's okay for me to smile today.
I love you, Barb
Cynthia

Lynne posted a note for Barbara that says: I just can't get this right. Hopefully my second attempt will work. Wishing you all the very best for tomorrow. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so angry and frustrated at what you had to go through. I'm sorry but I do feel that the scheduler should have been fired.
Sending you lots and lots of hugs and prayers to you and your family.

Terrie Syvertsen posted a note for Barbara that says: Barbara- Good morning to you Heart Sister. I wanted to add another well-wish and
prayer to the growing list of people who will be with you all hearts and spirits tomorrow and as you enter into the next stage of this amazing journey. I have been away from the "site" for a bit but jumped in today to join the community in telling you that I hope all goes well and that I hope you have confidence and Faith that some pretty wonderful days of feeling better and getting back into your life "mended" await you. With your Faith, positive attitude and all who appear to love you, you will do exceptionally well and I will be among the others here who look forward to hearing updates when possible. You take care now Sister. "Believe".......

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Barb,
Just awoke from an unscheduled nap to learn your news! Everyone on this site is angry on your behalf and I'm so glad they weren't afraid to express it. No-one wants you to feel worse because of our knee jerk reaction which is totally based on wishing we could have protected you from this experience. You know I struggle with clean language (heck, I don't struggle often enough...it just pops right out as though it's my first language when something like this happens! ! ! )
Then my next thought is...dodged that bullet! On to the care team that's right for you. Regroup, rest, do whatever you need.
You are right, ignorance is correctable. Can't fix stupid. Or heartless. Ironic.

XO Cynthia

Tanya Canino posted a note for Barbara that says: Hi Barb,

This is so frustrating! But I guess we just have to trust that the Lord knows what's best and if He wanted you to have the surgery tomorrow, it would have happened. So obviously, there's something else going on. I have the same issues....thinking that some treatment will be what I need and then it doesn't happen, or vice versa. We just have to trust our health with the Lord, and then just rest in the fact that no matter what - everything will be ok in the end - because we will be with Jesus in heaven.

I'm just ranting here Barb, just trying to make sense of what you just went through and why. We never get the answers to why...

Well, Barb, know that I'm praying for you. I'm sorry this happened this way for you.
Love you so much,

Tanya

Adam Pick posted a note for Barbara that says: Hi Barbara,

I wanted you to know that I'm sending great, big, healthy, heart pumping thoughts to you, your family and your medical team!

Lisa Lewis posted a note for Barbara that says: We love you. Praying for you and Dave.
Love, Lisa, Kent, Jacob, Josh and Christianna

Jan McClain posted a note for Barbara that says: Please tell me your surgery is ON for tomorrow!

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Barb,
What do you give a woman who has everything in her heart already? Well, I give what's in mine! Whatever earthly reason caused the postponement...nothing changes that God's got you in ALL circumstances.
I love you.
Your sister,
Cynthia

Debra Gann posted a note for Barbara that says: I'm saying a prayer for you before I go to sleep. My surgery is tomorrow too.
Debra Gann

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Dear Barb,
I just read your post because today was especially long. While you regret your months of anxiety, I apparently saved all of mine until this evening. Your post was read through buckets of tears and still you made me laugh by mentioning my practical advice to you (hygiene IS my middle name! Haha), made me feel special, and cracked me up with the picture of little tiny you still too long for the exam table! I've checked out their web site over the last few days and everything SEEMED normal size. :-) I hope the room you'll recover in is even half as nice as the images on the web site!
I'm so grateful for the support, prayer, and encouragement you've received from people I'll never meet - THANK YOU EVERYONE! Remember, Barb, you've been a blessing to so many people too...not just in these current circumstances, though you have, but to so many others including my family. For 28 years tomorrow (8:38 a.m. eastern time) you began and haven't stopped caring for Jake, Leah, and Haley...your love, planning, generosity can't be overstated.
Dave's test run with posting went well so I will check here. I have every device I own charging. God is on my speed dial (remember how we laughed at my prayer style? Dear God, it's me, Cynthia....need to talk to you...) :-)
Ok, time to wrap this up. So glad to hear you got a good night's sleep. Hope tonight is a good one too.
Lots of love to you and Dave from your sister,
Cynthia

Pino Correale posted a note for Barbara that says: I have been very moved by your comment. Your words are very inspiring and joyous. After all you do mention the Great Master of them all, at least for all of us believers. If i can presume to interpret your genuine sentiments and good wishes, you definitely cover everyone and it's most appreciative. May the spirit of Easter heal you quickly. I wish you well.

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Hi Dave,
Successful trial run. I read you loud and clear. Good job.
Thanks for getting yourselves to the San Francisco area safely. I just e-mailed Barb knowing full well that rest is more important than reading but the words are there in case Barb wants them. Dr.Seuss comes to my mind... I am here, I am here, I am here! Just know that I am out here loving you both, praying for you both, praying for your entire health care team. How many times has Barb said she married her sister? :-) We share our love for Barb, plenty of personality traits, and lots of waiting room experience. I'm grateful, blessed, and reassured having you as my brother.
God bless you both.
Love from your sister,
Cynthia

Jan McClain posted a note for Barbara that says: Barb, Sorry I haven't written lately, I've been "recuperating by the sea" at my cousin's beach house in southern CA. Thinking of you and wishing you the best! Does Dave know he has to correspond with us? Hope so, because we will all be waiting for news. You have been such a friend to many on this site, and we love you and appreciate all your positive thoughts. Now it's your turn and we will be there for you! BTW I love Gerbers Baby Rice Cereal and also Gerbers Baby Chocolate pudding (in the jar), so if they are on your menu, try them!

Emily Rowley posted a note for Barbara that says: Hello Barbara,
I wish you well for your upcoming Surgery, is it still planned to go around on the 23rd? I also read on your Journal something about having it done in the Children's Hospital? Look forward to hearing from you :)
Emily.

Cynthia Johnson posted a note for Barbara that says: Hi Barb! Funny video. I'm a huge proponent of vitamin L! Haha, thank you!
Wanted, also, to thank Jan for her generous offer. You have everything set but isn't it wonderful to know Jan was ready and willing to help. Jan, there is nothing weird about opening your heart to people...ever. please keep being you!
Thank all of you on this site who continue to support Barbara even as you all face your own surgeries and recoveries.
With love in my heart...from a grateful sister,
Cynthia

Jan McClain posted a note for Barbara that says: Hi Barbara I wrote a note to you on your post from two days ago, the changing hospital post, let me know if youre interested. If you have a private room, I'll bet your husband can stay with you there. I hate wasting money on hotels!

Cynthia posted a note for Barbara that says:
Dear Barb,
Just got your post regarding changes to date and location. March 23.
Jake's birthday. Your re-rebirth day. ; -)

As you say, Barb, the timing is all in God's hands. Right about the time I spotted the change in your surgery date on this page then jumped to read your post, my mind started getting in the way trying to logic through my reaction. No can do. All things being equal, I had to refer back to ... The timing of this has been in God's hands since the night your childhood doctor changed his mind about surgery. Even before then.

Want you to know I laughed out loud when you gave me away to Nicola (Hi Nicola!). The way you worded your response struck my funny bone HARD. Then you threw the other girls in for good measure! You take after Dad a far as humorous writing goes. It's a gift. :-)

Love from your sister,
Cynthia