Rhonda Rawles - Heart Valve Journal

My Journal

Here's my newest picture!

August 14, 2017 Like | Steve Farthing, Darlene Smith, Tina Maroon and 4 others like this

I am still so incredibly thankful for second chances and while life is very normal, I try not to take that for granted from where I've been. This man is my best friend and soul mate and I could not imagine life without him.

You look great!! Very healthy

Here's my newest picture!

August 14, 2017

Here's my newest picture!

August 14, 2017

Here's my newest picture!

August 14, 2017

Here's my newest picture!

December 25, 2015 Like | Kelly Weisgarber, Liz Burroughs, Kathleen F. likes this

Did anyone know about this jewelry by Unbroken Heart, can't believe I hadn't heard of it!

Liz Burroughs I love that!!

Here's my newest picture!

December 25, 2015 Like | Whitney Nelson, Jim Kelly-Evans, Kelly Weisgarber and 2 others like this

Most beautiful necklace ever! I will wear it with pride.

Jim Kelly-Evans very nice indeed!

Emily Rowley That's beautiful, where did you find the heart necklace from?

W. Carter Nice!

Wanda Mroz I'd love one... Where did you find it?

Rhonda Rawles He found it online at www.unbrokenheart.com

Wanda Mroz I found it! I got a cash gift for Christmas... I think I just found what I want to spend it on. This is so beautiful and signifies so beautifully what all of us have gone through! Thanks for sharing!

Kathleen F. Rhonda I love it! What a great gift! I hope your one-year anniversary of surgery is meaningful and joyful - we made it!

Here's my newest picture!

September 25, 2015 Like | Elaine Cutri, Mary K, Sandra Moore and 5 others like this

Feeling amazing, walked across the Golden Gate Bridge 3.4 miles!!

Elaine Cutri Congratulations!

Bob M Outstanding! Keep smiling. Great idea! I will be in San Fran next May, and I'll make the same walk.

Tammy Pilcher Congratulations! Great photo too!

Daniel Spurgeon I'm quite glad to see you doing so well after the hiccups in the early days!

Shirley Turner Hi Rhonda what a great photo Hugs Shirley

Ruth Valenzuela How beautiful! I just read your journey through your whole experience and I'm amazed how well you are doing. You certainly inspired me!

Rhonda Rawles Thanks everyone! It has definitely been quite the journey but I am at 9 months and have never felt better in my life. Feeling so much more adventurous and enjoying life to the fullest!

Shirley Turner Hard times are tough but they make us appreciate the good times so much more.

Here's my newest picture!

September 25, 2015 Like | Elaine Cutri, Mary K likes this

09/15 - California Trip

Bob M Love it!

Tammy Pilcher Rhonda, you look fantastic!

Shirley Turner Beautiful Lady

Update posted on...

August 21, 2015

Anyone heard from Robyn Tatu? Haven't seen any posts since she went home from rehab so was wondering how she was doing.

Like | Mary K likes this

Gerald Schaffer I haven't seen anything lately. There is a facebook page for her also and there's been no posts there either for over 5 weeks. I hope it means she's doing so ... Read more

Gerald Schaffer I haven't seen anything lately. There is a facebook page for her also and there's been no posts there either for over 5 weeks. I hope it means she's doing so well she doesn't have time to get on a computer.

Rhonda Rawles I agree, I know I sometimes don't post when things are busy and she might just be so busy recovering at home now but thought I'd check in.

Here's my newest picture!

August 9, 2015 Like | Gerald Schaffer, Janice Powell, Mary K and 1 other likes this

My birthday weekend celebration in Mt. Dora, riding on our boat. Oh how I love this man!

Tammy Pilcher Happy Birthday Rhonda! You look great! My Mom's family all live in the Mt. Dora, Eustis, Tavares area. Great photo of y'all!! :-)

Meredith Bray It's my birthday weekend, too! We're just enjoying being outside after 3 straight weeks of rain. Happy birthday!

Rhonda Rawles Thanks Tammy! Meredith I live in Lk. Alfred (central) Florida and so have had the same icky weather, nice to have a bit of sun finally!

Jeanette Davidson Beautiful and glowing!😊

Rhonda Rawles Thanks Jeanette, I feel amazingly better for sure!

Elaine Foster Looking great! Enjoy each new day! God is good.

Terrie Syvertsen Rhonda= You look the picture of health and happiness. This photo is
one that hopefully you framed for a special place on the wall! Glad to see
you both outdoors ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsen Rhonda= You look the picture of health and happiness. This photo is
one that hopefully you framed for a special place on the wall! Glad to see
you both outdoors enjoying life! Think of you often as you are one of the sites inspirations! Be well.

Celebrating 7 Months / Graduate of Rehab

Journal posted on August 8, 2015

Just passed my 7 month mark and graduated from rehab last week. To celebrate I joined a gym and have worked out every day this week and feel amazing. It is so incredible where I have come from and where I am now I can't even describe the feeling of wonder. This has been quite the journey and while I still search for the purpose of it all, I am ever so thankful for everything in life and don't take anything for granted. We are celebrating my husband's 50th birthday this weekend and had dinner last night at the airport in a swanky restaurant then rode in the Orlando Eye which is a 400 ft. fancy ferris wheel. I am so much more brave than I have ever been doing things outside my comfort zone.

A few weeks ago for my weekend we went stayed at a Bed and Breakfast in Mt. Dora and had the best boat ride which is the picture here.

Wishing all my heart brothers and sisters a joyful weekend!

Like | Mary K, Janice Powell, Susan Wozniak likes this

Gerald Schaffer Congrats on how well you're doing.

Tammy Pilcher Great post Rhonda! So happy for you!! Congratulations on your great recovery! Happy 50th Birthday to your husband, too! :-)

Tammy Pilcher Rhonda, I forgot to add it's also my husband's birthday weekend! #51:-)

Rhonda Rawles Thanks to you both and a happy birthday to your husband as well Tammy!

Tammy Pilcher Thanks Rhonda!:-)

Lora Lee Peterson Happy birthday, Rhonda!

Here's my newest picture!

July 29, 2015

Landed on a glacier after riding in a helicopter for the first time, definitely out of my comfort zone but such amazing views!

Here's my newest picture!

July 22, 2015 Like | Adam Pick, Sonny Abbasi and 1 other likes this

Family breakfast at Disney's Ft. Wilderness Campground, me with my beautiful daughter!

Lewis Garlisi Rhonda, everything about that photo is beautiful. Amazing how things can chanage in a few short months.

Tammy Pilcher Rhonda, this post and photo make me want to go to Disney! You look great!! Beautiful daughter too! God bless!

Rhonda Rawles Thanks, your both too sweet. We are fortunate and live just 20 minutes from Disney so maintain annual passes and have made some great family memories there for sure.

Bob M Great smiles!

Lewis Garlisi I'm about an hour away, but the crowds and the heat would make me sweat more than during my cardio rehab sessions.

Terrie Syvertsen Rhonda-This photo is pure Love and Happiness!
You are both looking B E A U T I F U L!

Cheryl Batzing Rhonda....you look great, dear! And your daughter is beautiful. So glad to see how well you are healing and recovering! Blessings.

Rhonda Rawles This was an early morning breakfast so the heat wasn't too terrible. The only time to do theme parks right now is early or late, middle of the day is awful. Thanks everyone for the compliments!

Update posted on...

June 11, 2015

Half way through Stage 2 Rehab and feeling incredible! Only lingering issue is some nerve damage in my tongue, fingertips and toes which also apparently affects hair loss. They prescribed me a strong Vitamin B med that should help with all of that in time. Hope everyone has a great day!

Like | Mary K likes this

Janet R Rhonda, I am so happy for you that you are doing so well after such trying times. Alaska is absolutely beautiful. Still waiting on those Hawaii pics.

Rhonda Rawles Thanks Janet, Hawaii is hopefully next but we wanted more time than a week and timing didn't work out for this trip. Hoping for maybe our anniversary next ... Read more

Rhonda Rawles Thanks Janet, Hawaii is hopefully next but we wanted more time than a week and timing didn't work out for this trip. Hoping for maybe our anniversary next April. Right now we are planning a trip to North Carolina for the week after Christmas to take the grandkids to see snow, should be fun!

Here's my newest picture!

July 29, 2015 Like | Eddie Patton, Jeanette Davidson likes this

Enjoyed a feast of Dungeness crab after riding in a float plane.

Here's my newest picture!

July 29, 2015 Like | Jeanette Davidson likes this

Sadly the only bear we saw on our trip to Alaska!

Here's my newest picture!

July 22, 2015 Like | Tammi Gunwall, Ericka Carlson, Jennifer Anderson and 3 others like this

03/15 - Three months post-op and 56 lbs. lighter!

Penny Prichard You look great

Patricia Garcia You look terrifc Rhonda

Lewis Garlisi Big congratulations on your progression! You've had a lot of obstacles to overcome. I must admit that following your story just before my surgery a couple ... Read more

Lewis Garlisi Big congratulations on your progression! You've had a lot of obstacles to overcome. I must admit that following your story just before my surgery a couple of months ago was difficult. You are tough. Best wishes for your continued success.

Rhonda Rawles Thanks everyone! Lewis - I was afraid of scaring others as I know going through this journey is scary enough without reading bad outcomes. Although my road ... Read more

Rhonda Rawles Thanks everyone! Lewis - I was afraid of scaring others as I know going through this journey is scary enough without reading bad outcomes. Although my road was rocky and it took me longer to get here, I am doing great now. The best part of it is I don't remember anything that happened. Literally I remember going to the hospital and checking in and then nothing for about 3 weeks. It was really much worse for my family who obviously was very aware of what was going on.

Janet R Rhonda, you have been through so much and congratulations on how you have progressed, glad to hear that you are doing great now. You look awesome! Time to go to Hawaii :0)

Tim Goff Great Job Rhonda

Duane Beeman Outstanding

Robyn Tatu Thank you so much for posting this Rhonda. You look great. So inspiring!

Tammy Pilcher Rhonda, it is so good to see you doing so well after everything you've been through! We had a lot of prayers here going up for you! Take care heart sister!

Nancy D you look great and have overcome so very much!! Prayer continue as you continue to recover!

Tammi Gunwall I'm so glad to hear and see that you are doing well Rhonda! You look fantastic! :)

Bob M Outstanding! Great recovery! Take it easy heart sister.

Ericka Carlson Wow, the difference in your face says it all. I am proud of you Rhonda!

Linda Crawford Rhonda, I am so glad you are doing well -- and you look great!

Jennifer Anderson WOW! :D

Elaine Foster You look wonderful! So happy you are doing well. What a priviledge this site allows us to connect with others and share our "hearts" and prayers with each other.

Terri Grimes It boggles my mind, all that you have been through. I needed to read your story and that of others to get it through my thick noggin how lucky I am to be recovering ... Read more

Terri Grimes It boggles my mind, all that you have been through. I needed to read your story and that of others to get it through my thick noggin how lucky I am to be recovering from the endocarditis in my own home. Your weight loss looks wonderful! Keep up the good work!

Kathleen F. Rhonda you look great, like you've kicked heart surgery's ass. What a winter we've had! Thinking of you and I hope all continues to go well for you.

Here's my newest picture!

July 22, 2015 Like |

Nov 2014 - One month before surgery.

Back to Normal!!

Journal posted on March 28, 2015

The last roadblock I had to leap was getting my kidneys to improve so I could get off dialysis and I did it! Last week I had the catheter in my chest removed and this week the stitches taken out. So, I am finally back to my normal, or my new normal anyway.

Next step is enrolling in a cardiac rehab program at the hospital. I took a stress test this week and so now just waiting on the final approval. I know many have already completed this stage at 3 months post-op but with all my other issues my progress has been a bit delayed.

I've been back to work for about 5 weeks now and as of last week am up to full time hours.

The best part of this journey has been a jump start to weight loss which has continued. Since checking into the hospital I've lost 56 lbs, 45 in the hospital and 11 since then. So fun to be buying smaller clothes and upgrading my closet.

Today I am enjoying a quiet day at home cleaning house and doing laundry. Just have to say how nice it is to be "normal" again, I've sure missed it!

Like |

Patricia Garcia Rhonda I am so happy for you. I prayed that you would come out of this hard recovery and prayers answered.

Rhonda Rawles Thanks Patricia, it has been a long road and I am so thankful for all the prayers, they definitely helped!

LaDonna Mangile That is awesome. Glad to hear your off of dialysis. Keep it up!

Clare Auten Rhonda you look great. So happy to hear that things are moving along. Praying for your continued recovery.

Ericka Carlson Such great news!!

Jim O'Brien Rhonda, wonderful news to hear that you are making good progress. More prayers your way for a good continued recovery.

Kathleen F. I'm so glad you're doing great now! I've been thinking of you often since we had our surgeries on the same day, and have been praying for you often. Congratulations ... Read more

Kathleen F. I'm so glad you're doing great now! I've been thinking of you often since we had our surgeries on the same day, and have been praying for you often. Congratulations on tremendous progress. I'm so happy and relieved for you.

Update posted on...

February 8, 2015

Is anyone using Mederma on their scars or anything else?

Like |

Terrie Syvertsen Hello Rhonda-First off I am glad to see your post on "Home and Healing".
You have had more than your share of "bumps" and your attitude points to a person who ... Read more

Terrie Syvertsen Hello Rhonda-First off I am glad to see your post on "Home and Healing".
You have had more than your share of "bumps" and your attitude points to a person who is going to keep moving forward one step at a time and not let anything stop her! Great lesson for us all to keep at heart no matter what phase of this "Heart" Journey we are on. In answer to your question.
I have a full sternum scar and at the advice of fellow heart sisters Ginger and Eleanor I believe, I stuck to warm water compresses gently laid over the incision and rotated by having 12 fresh and clean brand new wash cloths at the ready so that by using 2 during each warm application I always had the incision treated with the most respect and gentleness! I think it wasn't until the 3rd. month I began using "Dermatix Ultra" an advanced scar treatment by Obagi Medical (Sent to me by my Heart Sister) that I continue to use sparingly and I am at the 5-1/2 month phase of recovery. My scar is in great shape but I have to admit I use a gentle soap and water, rinse well and dry gently without any other products and have sensitive skin. Best advice-try not to scratch-ever! You take care and best of luck with your continued Journey of Recovery!

Rhonda Rawles Thanks for your advice, my scar has not itched luckily so I'm good there. I'm three months post op so I think I'm beyond the stage where compresses would help. ... Read more

Rhonda Rawles Thanks for your advice, my scar has not itched luckily so I'm good there. I'm three months post op so I think I'm beyond the stage where compresses would help. I have been told by docs that it looks great and I have been using Mederma once a day after showering, just curious if others had any other options. I'll look into the Dermatix Ultra.

Home and Healing

Journal posted on February 8, 2015

After spending over 5 weeks in the hospital I am now home and continuing to improve. Pretty sure I had every complication there is encountering cardiac arrest twice in addition to kidney failure and other more minor issues. Turns out I was allergic to heparin which started the spiral out of control. Still doing dialysis three days a week but other than that feeling good and recovering more each day! Thanks so much for your prayers!

Like | kathy lesnau, Pamela Watkins likes this

Jim Kelly-Evans Rhonda, glad to read that you are home after such a difficult time. Sending best wishes for a smoother recovery from now on.

Tammy Pilcher Rhonda, I'm so glad you're home and doing better! Prayers and best wishes for continued recovery!

Linda Crawford Wow Rhonda, I'm so glad you are finally on the mend.

Nancy D Praying you have had all the speed bumps you will encounter as you look for recovery. I hope now that you are home, things will move much more smoothly for ... Read more

Nancy D Praying you have had all the speed bumps you will encounter as you look for recovery. I hope now that you are home, things will move much more smoothly for you! Heart surgery isn't for sissies that is for sure!!
Take good care!

Patricia Garcia Wow...Rhonda I am sorry that you had to go through so much, but the great news is that you made it through it. In time I am sure you will be back to your self ... Read more

Patricia Garcia Wow...Rhonda I am sorry that you had to go through so much, but the great news is that you made it through it. In time I am sure you will be back to your self again. You are a fighter and happy to hear that you are home.

Joseph Ballett I'm glad your home!

Carlos Ortiz I'm happy your home! Can't complain about my experience. Just glad your doing better 😄

Kimberly Biddick So glad to hear from you and that you are doing better!!

Bob M Welcome home! Home is where your fixed heart is. I pray that the worst is behind you heart sister.

Clay Rowe Rhonda. Glad you're finally home and hope the rough times are behind you...you've had your share!

Cheryl Batzing Rhonda, so glad to hear you are home and recovering well at this point. You have been through it heart sister! Will pray of your continued healing.

Jim O'Brien Rhonda, Wonderful news to hear that you are home. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers for a quick recovery.

Janet R Dear Rhonda, I am so sorry that you have had to endure so many complications. That is a very scary time. You are a strong woman and I pray that your healing ... Read more

Janet R Dear Rhonda, I am so sorry that you have had to endure so many complications. That is a very scary time. You are a strong woman and I pray that your healing all continues in the right direction. Continued prayers to you and your family.

Karen Sievers So glad that you are finally home and recovering after so many complications. Will continue to pray and think of you as you continue your recovery.

Update posted on...

January 28, 2015

Momma will be getting released on Friday!
Thanks everyone! We all can't wait to have her home!

Like | Mark Alafita, Kimberly Biddick, Patricia Garcia and 3 others like this

Tammi Gunwall That's fantastic news!! Yay, Rhonda!! Thank you for sharing with us :)

Mark Alafita Fantastic.! Worth the wait. Very happy for you and family!,

Jim O'Brien Wonderful news! Best wishes and prayers for a smooth recovery here on out. Thanks for the update.

Tammy Pilcher Prayers answered! So happy for Rhonda!

Bob M Outstanding! Home is where Rhonda's fixed heart is. God bless and rise up!

Patricia Garcia Yes...so happy for Rhonda and the family. Looking forward to hearing from her on here when she is up to it.

Edith Dim Wonderful news!

Jim Kelly-Evans Good news! Congratulations and welcome home Rhonda!

Kathleen F. I'm so happy to see this post! What a long month it's been. Wishing you an easier recovery once you're home, Rhonda!

Clay Rowe That's great news! Now she can move on.

Here's my newest picture!

July 22, 2015 Like | Tammi Gunwall, Linda Crawford, Kathleen F. and 1 other likes this

Momma is doing much better! She is in rehab now and is building up her strength so she can get back home. We are still waiting on her kidneys to improve some more, but she is turned around from a few weeks ago. This photo is from yesterday. We brought

Kimberly Biddick Thank you so much for the update!! I have been praying for Rhonda and am so happy to see her smiling. I hope that she gets to go home soon!!

Janet R Thanks for the update. I pray for Rhonda often. I want her to get to Hawaii.

Penny Prichard Thank goodness we have all been so worried. I'm ecstatic she's on her way to recovery

Daniel Spurgeon It's great to see Rhonda out in the sunshine. Looking at her you'd never know she had been through such a recent challenge!

Bob M Rhonda, what an awesome smile that shows your inner self. God bless and rise up! I pray that your kidneys will continue to improve and that your heart surgery recovery will track toward peace.

Jim O'Brien Rhonda, what an awesome smile indeed! I've been wondering about how you were doing but know how it is sometimes finding the time to do make updates. I pray ... Read more

Jim O'Brien Rhonda, what an awesome smile indeed! I've been wondering about how you were doing but know how it is sometimes finding the time to do make updates. I pray that your recovery is 'smooth sailing under a beautiful sky' from here on out.

Linda Crawford Rhonda, you go girl 😊

Jim Kelly-Evans That's good news. Best wishes, Rhonda!

Joseph Ballett Yes great new's!

Elaine Foster So happy to see your smiling face! Count me as one that has been praying and wondering how you were also. God bless you.

That is definitely a sweet picture. Smiles on both faces.

Update 1-7-2015

Journal posted on January 7, 2015

We have had a complete turn around from three days ago. Sorry I haven't posted anything sooner. She is still in ICU but is doing so much better. She got the breathing tube taken out yesterday, and her liver is recovering and her kidneys are also improving. She is in high spirits but is still very drained from everything that is going on. She has already made it known that she wants a trip to Hawaii after this. She definitely deserves it.

Thanks for your continued thoughts and prayers! She has a long way to go, but she is doing much better!

Like | kathy lesnau, Meredith Bray and 3 others like this

Clare Auten That is great news. Praying that recovery continues in such a positive way. I think a trip to Hawaii has definitely been earned.

Clay Rowe Glad to hear that good news. Still keeping you in mind for the duration.

Bob M Great news! Next stop, Hawaii!

Kathleen F. Thanks so much for posting - we've all been worried and checking in! I'm so glad everything is improving. And Hawaii! Hooray! She is in good spirits. Love it.

Janet R That is such great news, thanks for the update. Hope to hear more. Especially about your trip to Hawaii.

Mark Alafita So happy to hear. Keep it up, Rhonda. Hawaii awaits!!

Debbie cross I have been wondering how you are doing.Hope recovery is on track.

Kathleen F. Just checking in. How are you doing? Hope you are feeling a lot better.

Penny Prichard Praying for you.

Update 1-4-2015

Journal posted on January 4, 2015

For those of you asking, this is the information I know.
The morning after her surgery, she had short shallow breathing and was looking a bit pale. They moved her back into the CVICU to keep an eye on her. She went into cardiac arrest after getting there. They were able to stabalize her. That's when they realized the liver wasn't properly functioning. They keep running tests and we are hoping for things to steadily get better.
She is still on the breathing tube. Her liver values were slightly better today, but still not where we would like to be. As the doctor put it, we are being "cautiously optimistic". They were concerned there was some swelling in her brain, but the CT scan confirmed she was okay.
My father will be meeting with the doctors in the morning to discuss a course of action, upon the results of her next liver test, which will be at 4 AM.
Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated more than you know, and much needed. This has easily been, the worst week for my entire family. My dad has left the hospital for maybe 10 hours all together, since she got here.
We are hoping for the best. Thanks.

Like |

Jim Kelly-Evans Rhonda is is my thoughts.

Karen Sievers Praying for Rhonda and the whole family.

Clare Auten Praying for Rhonda and the whole family

Joseph Ballett Thoughts be with you and yours

Bob M More prayers for Rhonda and family

Tammy Pilcher Praying for Rhonda and family.

Cheryl Batzing prayers coming Rhonda's way.

Linda Crawford Rhonda is in my thoughts -- hugs to Sam and her dad.too.

Clay Rowe Still keeping you and your family in prayer.

John Noriega I am praying!

Jim Hernandez Thinking of your family during this difficult time...hope that the new week brings better news and a bright outcome...

Joan Napier Sam, Prayers continue for your mom. May God heal her and bring her safely through this difficult time. Thank you for keeping us updated.

Jim O'Brien My thoughts and prayers are with Rhonda and you and the family. I hope and pray that she will recover quickly and thus the stress and worry for you all is greatly ... Read more

Jim O'Brien My thoughts and prayers are with Rhonda and you and the family. I hope and pray that she will recover quickly and thus the stress and worry for you all is greatly reduced. Thanks for the update. God bless.

Debbie cross Praying for Rhonda

Denise Cockayne love and prayers for you all

kathy lesnau Prayers coming your way!

Patricia Garcia Anyone know how Rhonda is doing? Praying that she is recovering.

Meredith Bray Still in my prayers!

Update 1-3-2015

Journal posted on January 3, 2015

The past few days have been a roller coaster. She is back in the CVICU. She is currently in critical condition, on a breathing tube, dialysis, and having troubles with her liver and kidney. Her numbers are slowly improving, but as you can imagine, it's been incredibly painful to sit by and wait. I wish I could be posting better news, but would like to ask to keep my mother in your thoughts and prayers. I will try to remember to keep this updated. Thanks!

- Sam (Rhonda's Daugther)

Like |

Clare Auten So sorry to hear about your mom. We will be praying for her.

Tammi Gunwall Thank you for the update on your mom, Sam. I am praying for her that this bump in the road is only just that. That her body accepts these new changes and she ... Read more

Tammi Gunwall Thank you for the update on your mom, Sam. I am praying for her that this bump in the road is only just that. That her body accepts these new changes and she recovers from this quickly and is back on the road to health in no time. May the Lord surround all of you in this difficult time and give you comfort and peace. Please continue to keep us posted.

Tammy Pilcher Sam, I'm so sorry to hear about your Mom's setback. I'll keep her in my prayers for full recovery. Thank you for letting us know. God bless Rhonda and her family.

Daniel Spurgeon I'll say some prayers for Rhonda, that these issues clear up quickly.

Jim O'Brien Please know that your Mom is in my thoughts and prayers as well. I hope that she quickly recovers.

Jim Kelly-Evans Your Mom is in my thoughts.

Mark Alafita Keeping Rhonda in my thoughts and prayers. My best to the family during this challenging time.

Kathleen F. Oh I am so sorry to see this post!! My thoughts and prayers are with Rhonda that she pulls through this. Her grace and upbeat attitude were so helpful to me. Praying hard for her.

Clay Rowe Sam, really sorry to hear you're in a rough spot. Prayers that Rhonda and your family come through it soon.

Bob M More prayers for Rhonda.

Cheryl Batzing Thanks for the update on your mom, Sam. I'll keep her in my prayers for her body to recovery quickly from this bump in the road.

Patricia Garcia Anyone know if Rhonda's condition is improving? Thinking of her and sending prayers for her to come out of this.

Rhonda Rawles Her liver is a little bit better today. They are going to continue to run tests. Unfortunately, all we can do is wait. I will make another update later today. Thanks guys! - Sam

Elaine Foster Praying for Rhonda and family. Father God, touch and heal in the name of jesus.

Patricia Garcia Thanks for the updates on Rhonda. I am praying for her to come through this. Rhonda you are such a strong woman and keep on fighting through this.

Tammy Pilcher Thank you so much for the updates, Sam! Rhonda has been on my mind and in my prayers! Still praying!

Joan Napier Sam, we are all praying for your mom that she recovers fully and quickly. Also praying for you and your family during this difficult time. May God bless you all. Please update us when possible.

Kathleen F. Thank you for the updates, we're all watching Rhonda's progress and praying for her!

Update posted on...

December 29, 2014

Surgery went perfectly, and she is on the road to recovery. Thank you for your continued support!

Like | Jim Kelly-Evans, Kimberly Biddick, Linda Crawford and 7 others like this

Daniel Spurgeon Congratulations

Tammy Pilcher Prayers answered!

Tammi Gunwall Wonderful news!

Adam Pick Woo-Whooo!!!! Happy Dance for Rhonda!!!

Cheryl Batzing So glad to hear this! Praying for quick healing Rhonda!

Clare Auten Happy to hear that. Continuing to pray for you as you recover.

Joan Napier So glad to hear that everything went well and that she's doing ok!

Wonderful news!! :)

Don Netz Great news. Thanks for letting us know so soon.

Kimberly Biddick Great!!!!!!

The Night Before

Journal posted on December 28, 2014

Had a pleasant day with my husband and daughter with a late lunch and a funny movie. All packed now and ready to have some family time and play some board games to keep my mind busy then time for bed, if I can sleep that is? Check in is at 5am and surgery is at 6:45am so at least I'm first on the list tomorrow, ready to be out of the waiting / worry stage and onto recovery. Thanks to everyone for all your encouragement, prayers and sharing your experiences, it has made this part of the journey bearable!

Like | Richard Cohen, Adam Pick and 1 other likes this

Tammy Pilcher You're going to do great, Rhonda!

Clare Auten Glad you had a relaxing day. Enjoy the family time tonight. Praying for you tomorrow.

Joan Napier Rhonda, Sounds like a great way to spend the day before surgery. Nothing better than quality time with the family. Even if you don't sleep much tonight, you ... Read more

Joan Napier Rhonda, Sounds like a great way to spend the day before surgery. Nothing better than quality time with the family. Even if you don't sleep much tonight, you will be sleeping a good part of tomorrow, so not to worry. May God bless you and give you peace. Prayers for you tomorrow as you undergo your procedure and begin recovery.

Nancy D our thoughts, prayers and well wishes go with you and continue through out your recovery process. Be patient with yourself, take good care, deep breathe and ... Read more

Nancy D our thoughts, prayers and well wishes go with you and continue through out your recovery process. Be patient with yourself, take good care, deep breathe and walk when you can!! You too will do great!

Linda Crawford Hi Rhonda, here's wishing you the best possible outcome tomorrow and an uneventful recovery.

Kathleen F. Wishing you all the best, Rhonda!

Tammi Gunwall My prayers and thoughts will be with you Rhonda. God bless!

Mark Alafita Best of luck on tomorrow's surgery. I have a BAV and have surgery next month. I look forward to hearing about your great recovery. All my best.

Cheryl Batzing First surgery of the day is perfect! praying for you.

Bob M We are all praying for you. Tomorrow will be a new day for you with your fixed heart

Jim Kelly-Evans Best wishes for a successful procedure!

Adam Pick I am sending healthy, heart-pumping thoughts and prayers to you Rhonda!

Don Netz Praying for Rhonda.

Update posted on...

December 24, 2014

Just finished reading Adam's book and so wanted to take the next step and meet others in waiting or those who are recovering or have recovered to learn all I can. Only found out about the issue three weeks ago so it's been a very eventful holiday season for sure but not in the way I had planned. Surgery is set for Monday and all the pre-op paperwork is done, just waiting now.

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John Noriega Wow Rhonda! Way to do it! I was pretty much the same way. Found out about my AV in mid-September - angiogram in early October and repair in mid-October. Glad ... Read more

John Noriega Wow Rhonda! Way to do it! I was pretty much the same way. Found out about my AV in mid-September - angiogram in early October and repair in mid-October. Glad it was done and happily recovering and glad that i am here to enjoy Christmas with my family. Be assured that I'll be praying for you! God bless and know that all will be well! Onward & Upward!

Cheryl Batzing Rhonda, so glad you have reached out here. You will find a lot of support and encouragement. I just got home yesterday after getting a mitral valve repair on ... Read more

Cheryl Batzing Rhonda, so glad you have reached out here. You will find a lot of support and encouragement. I just got home yesterday after getting a mitral valve repair on Dec. 16. They have been watching my valve for 22 years, and at an Oct. 6 check up, things moved forward quickly and I was told to get surgery within 3 months. I've had this hanging over my head a long time and didn't think I could do it/get through it. But here I am back home and cannot believe how well I did! Not sure what type of questions you have but ask away! Blessings.

Rhonda Rawles Thank you to you both for sharing, I have a feeling you will all be invaluable during this long process of recovery.

Lenore Mitchell We'll all be thinking about you on Dec 29, Rhonda. Your wait is almost over, and soon you'll be telling us all about your experiences. Merry Christmas and the ... Read more

Lenore Mitchell We'll all be thinking about you on Dec 29, Rhonda. Your wait is almost over, and soon you'll be telling us all about your experiences. Merry Christmas and the very best to you. There are a few recent posts on what to take to the hospital which might be helpful, and chime in if you have additional suggestions.

Karen Sievers You will find a lot of information, support and comfort here. The waiting is the worst part. I had about a month notice before my surgery on 9/25/14. Glad that ... Read more

Karen Sievers You will find a lot of information, support and comfort here. The waiting is the worst part. I had about a month notice before my surgery on 9/25/14. Glad that it is done and I am doing really good. Will be thinking about and praying for you on the 29th. All the best and don't hesitate to ask about anything.