Hi Honey;

You are simply the best guy I know. Keep us laughing and we can get through anything.

Love,

Lori

Hi William
And if it doesn't go as planned, well, you'll have a terrific smile!
Cheryl, Ontario

Ouch, have not gone to my dentist yet, but 6 months ago all was fine. I have an appointment (my first) with Dr Gillinov on the 17th at 12:30p. Guess he plans to be done with you by then. I'm expecting my surgery to be more of an all day affair, hope he gets a good night's sleep.

Got my packet from CC today, hope you got yours. I'm to be there 3 days before surgery for testing including a heart cath. Can't get over how efficient this hospital is, but when they do as many heart surgeries as they do they have to have it down pat.

Thanks for being the first note. Look forward to seeing you post-op. You will be one day ahead of me for recovery. feel very fortunate to be going to the best hospital and having the best surgeon!!

Another Tulsan! Hello Bill! I'm Kathy. I will be needing a new AVR soon. My preferred is Glenfiddich for Scotch. I agree - humor is awesome in dealing with this. Good luck on your surgery!

Hi William
I got your sense of humour (note the Canadian spelling!). No matter how many caregivers and friends we have supporting us, ultimately, we undergo the trip alone so we each have to deal with it on our own terms. Good for you. I too chose to look for the funny parts of what was happening to me and honestly, my poking fun helped those around me deal with my surgery and recovery. It helped lighten the load. Keep it up. Cheryl, Ontario

Hi, Bill. Best of luck to you with your surgery. Mine was Monday, Jan. 4, 2010. What a way to start the new year! Personally, I liked Mudslides as my pain killer of choice but my surgeon was a real urmudgeon about that. Iwas lucky that I only had 3 weeks between discovery and surgery. Believe me, all that aiting is worse than the surgery! Keep writing in your Journal. It will help you and others facing this huge unknown. You'll be in my prayers! Jan Michelsen, St. Louis

Hi William
Chances are overwhelmingly in your favour that you won't die so I wouldn't stress over getting the funeral paid for in advance. Doesn't hurt to have plans and your wishes written down though. I've heard your Dr. Gillinov has a great batting average so let him worry about the outcome. Keep healthy thoughts. Cheryl, Ontario

Hey William,

If you would like a direct introduction to Dr. Gillinov, let me know.

Keep on tickin!

Adam