I received a phone call from Dr. Burt yesterday with very disappointing news. It seems that there is new damage to my heart that wasn't there at my initial visit back in March. The right ventricle of my heart is enlarged from the disease which is making it work harder. The transplant would stress my heart and ultimately put me into heart failure. I stressed to Dr. Burt that I would be willing to sign all waivers not holding anyone accountable, but he explained that ethically he could not proceed with the transplant and told Donna and I that if I were to go forth with the procedure I would definitely not survive it. I think it is extremely important at this time to consider my children and the precious time that I do have remaining.
Donna and I want to thank all of our friends, family members and neighbors for all of your support both emotionally and financially by donating to the transplant fund in my honor. The money that has been collected will be used to offset the expenses incurred while traveling to Chicago for these evaluations as well as all medications that have not been fully covered by my insurance.
What's next you ask? I am going to follow up with my rheumatology team here in New Jersey and possibly be evaluated for a lung transplant. I am not certain that i will be a candidate for this either but I am not going to give up. Winners never quit and quitters never win. I will be following up with future updates as soon as i see my New jersey Doctors. BE STRONG TO LIVE LONG!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I am so sorry for this unfortunate news you've received. Have you visited www.roadback.org and/or considered an antibiotic protocol?
ReplyDeleteBest to you.
Mike, your positive attitude is amazaing,It definately reflects your faith..The bible tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God..My prayes will be with you daily..
ReplyDeleteEven when I physically felt my worst, I always thought I would be able to beat scleroderma. Keep your positive attitude and I wish you all the luck in the world!
ReplyDeleteHey Mike, it's Sean Luby, Darlene's son. My mom just told me the bad news and I just read it here. I'm so very sorry and wish that all of our prayers could have been answered. Keep fighting big guy and my prayers are always with you. Love you big Mike.
ReplyDeleteMike
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear about the set back but keep your positive attitude, its real important.
Remembering you in my prayers.
Fran
Mike, you have never met me, but I am one of Donna's patients. Your story has touched my life and I am certain the lives of so many people who know you. I am so sorry to hear about your news, but keep the positive attitude. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your sweet wife Donna and your children
ReplyDeleteMike, continue to live by your motto Be strong to live long Buddy. If anyone can beat this you can!!! We are all praying for you, Donna, Amanda and Mikey
ReplyDelete