We Did it...New Insurance!

We Did it… Thank you Lord. Jason was told on August 7^th that he had been approved for the PCIP insurance. Now I don’t know all the ins and outs about everything yet and I can honestly tell you that I am scared. Our monthly payment is reasonable especially compare to others, but what gets me is the 20% that the insurance doesn’t cover. That’s still a lot, and I pray that we don’t have to pay that upfront. The average cost for the heart transplant, before and after care is a whopping   997,700.00. 20% of that is 199,540,000. !!! I feel better once I know what the co pays will be.

 I know in my heart that God will provide everything we need financially, so as of right now I am placing this in is hands and he will see us through.  In the beginning to this process, when medical  bills started piling up and as they still continue too. I told Jason we cant worry about the money or about how much we still owe. We pay a certain amount every month. But like I told him, we have to live and we have to have food on the table and such.  I’m sure anyone with medical problems are experiencing the same thing. It will all work itself out, but the important part is my Jason will be able to get off hold on the transplant list!

His effective date will be September 1, and Ill make an appointment for him to do back to the doctor that week. He hasn’t been to the doctor in so long, Ill will be interesting to see what they say. God has watched over Jason this entire time. He hasn’t had to go to the hospital at all. Infection free and everything..Praise God.

Even though when you have and LVAD (or anything for that matter) anything could happen at any time..BUT I will feel more secure knowing the doctors are checking on him every few weeks now, at least it will give me comfort that hes ok.

Im sure it will take him a few weeks of test and things before getting back on the list, but I will surely be looking forward to that day! One side effect that I see with the LVAD ( in Jasons case) is that he has gained weight, so hopefully that wont be an issue.

So the lessoned learned here is there’s always going to be something. Even after Jason gets as heart, (and he will, in Gods time of course) there will still be issues and there will still be fears. But as we can see things and issues may try to break our spirit, but you have to keep your head up and keep going and always…always have faith that God is with you and that he will make miracles happen.

Power Down...Power Down!!!

Oh my Goodness did we have an eventful weekend! Oh …and I might add, not  a good one. Friday night was just like any other night. All of a sudden at 12:30 or so I hear Jason machine going off, the power had gone out! This was big because this was the first time this has happened since he received his LVAD.  Jason had stayed up. I knew we were on the list already with Dominion Virginia Power to get our power restored ASAP., but since the storm was still going on I knew our first thought was to get the generator ((that had been so generously donated to us)  Jason and his friend were busy getting the generator so when I came out to the screened in porch Jason was not where to be seen. My curtains where flying and I was trying to get everything down to avoid being blown over. About that time I hear the next door neighbors tree cracking, Im screaming for Jason (like  in the movies) finally after many screams and the next door neighbor tree falling halfway into out yard I see him and tell him the get inside. By the way…I am still hoarse!  Of course , In this whole madness Emma was still asleep, but I had manage to scare Austin half to death with my screams. Once Jason was in the house safely, I went and woke Emma since I was slowly finding out this wasn’t just a little storm.

Soon enough, Jason got the generator started and we were able to plug in  the Refrigerator , TV , Lamps, a fan and mostly importantly his batteries.  It did disappoint me however that our power was not restore until about 2:30 the next day.  The last few days it has been in the 100’s here. Although Jason was safe with his batteries being charged as we all know heat is not a good thing for him…Or the equipment.  Thankfully  though, the temperature in our house did not rise above 80 degrees downstairs. 

For future reference there are a few details that need to be set in place. Summer is a bad time for outages and so is winter, when your dealing with ice. So now that we know we cant really count on Dominion Virginia Power to get our power on as quickly is we may need it, we defiantly have to explore our other options, so It give us a lot to think about.   So the lesson is learned Prepare , Prepare, Prepare. So we will soon have to go out shopping to prepare for the next possible storm.  The main lesson?? Don’t count on anyone else to keep your family safe, It sad to say…but true.

New House...and Forgetting

Well, we are pretty much set up in the new house. I still have a few boxes to go through, then I don’t think I ever want to see another box. Around this time is where the fun will begin. All the decorating, and improvements..Yay..no really ..yay! Jason and I have had a bit of a cold the past week,. Mine was a little worse,but I’ll be so happy when we can feel back to our old selves again! Jason says when I’m sick get  grumpy..I don’t know what he’s talking about…But I know he gets like that! (don’t let him tell you otherwise!)

We set up the room so Jason would have plenty of room to get to the closet and bathroom but I have to say sometimes I wish the cord was 40ft instead! He can’t even reach Emmas room. Sometimes I hate that dang cord (to be honest) Once he’s plugged in there’s usually no switching back over ..unless the house was on fire or something like that…

Jasons little mancave is coming along. He’s already got the huge TV, and we actually found a dartboard at a yardsale a few weeks  ago, you would’ve thought we found gold. He loves that thing and everyone has had so much fun with it. One thing I love about Jason is he loves going to yard sales. We both love antiques and more times than not you can find some great antiques priced cheap, because people just don’t know what they have.

Jason was really good about keep everything pretty much in arms reach while in the moving process. Of course,  we did have to have a medicine hunt, but sometimes things like that happen when you have a lot of people helping. We do have a his and her sink in the master bathroom, so that’s where Jason chooses to do his driveline care..so of course I get to have my ironing board back solely for clothes now..yay!

I unpacked our swimsuits on Sunday, of my four to his one..Haha. The thought crossed my mind to put his swim trucks In the attic, but then faith came over me and  I thought no, my honey WILL be swimming with me before the end of summer! I thought to put it in the attic,, is like giving up hope so it will nicely lay right there beside mine, until he can use it. I have to say, when I was packing them up and yelling to the other room” honey I found your swim trucks”…thank goodness he didn’t hear me, I feel like a moron.

Jason will make jokes every once in a while, and really if you don’t pay attention, it goes over my head for a minute..well actually seconds. About a week ago Jason and I were running around the house (not literally) doing things and Jason said “oh honey wanna go take a shower together in our new house” of course I said oh yes and  in that small second I though oh that would be so nice again..and then DING DING ….reality… then a frown came to my face, Jason just started laughing I just said “ and I so wanted to take one with you!”   I know I can’t be the only one here though….does anyone else just forget sometimes???

February Newsletter...MyLVAD.COM

MyLVAD CommunitySpotlight:

Shannon Jarratt

7 Feb 2012 - 02:01 PM    by: MyLVAD

MyLVAD is dedicated to LVAD recipients and their loved ones. We feel it is vital to know you are not alone on your LVAD journey. Every month MyLVAD will feature a recipient or caregiver who has volunteered to share their story in what we are calling our Community Spotlight.

This month we would like to introduce you to Jason and Shannon. Jason is in his early 30s and received his LVAD in the fall of 2011. He has a family history of cardiomyopathy, his father also received an LVAD and heart transplant. Shannon is his partner and his caregiver. She is a mother of two, works full time and is the author of the blog ourlifeourlovehislvad.com which chronicles their LVAD journey.

Shannon shares her reflections on her relationship with Jason since his LVAD implant.

With Valentine’s Day soon approaching, what better things to reflect on than love and relationships with someone with an LVAD.

When Jason received his LVAD on September 26, 2011, I knew life was going to change, but I had no idea to what extent. First of all, it was so hard watching someone I loved having surgery, not to mention heart surgery. None the less I was ecstatic when Jason for made the decision to get an LVAD.

I will never forget the first time I laid my head on Jason’s chest after he received his LVAD. As I listened to this awesome piece of equipment, I couldn't help but to feel a little sad that I couldn’t hear Jason’s heart any longer. .now I will let you know that within the last few weeks, I can hear Jason’s heart beating again, . I was so happy, In a strange way it feel like I got a little part of my Jason back. Now there have been plenty of times that I have thought back and thought to myself “we should have done this ..or that. That is totally normal but you can’t let those things get too you too much. Of course you will wish that you swam in the river together one more time, or took one last shower together. You just have to have faith that one day you will get to do those things together one day. For the day to day battles, I will continue to fight for Jason and be his number one fan. In that aspect I know I will never have any regrets.

When Jason was released from the hospital with his LVAD, I knew things would be different. Starting with his driveline care, we always tried to make things fun. I always love the driveline care every night. I always draw pictures on the dressing, or just write I love you or whatever comes to mind. He always looks forward to what I am going to write that night. My favorite part is how attentive he is while I’m doing his driveline care! I like to think it’s because his totally in love with me!

After the LVAD was placed Jason and I talked about when to become intimate again. I told him just to let me know when he was ready, because I knew he was going to be just as scared as I was. Now I will tell you “The first time post - LVAD”, actually does feel like “your first time” again! Its kind of awkward well I’m not even going to say kind of..it is!, I could hardly touch him anywhere because he was still so sore, I was so scared my legs would get tangled in his cord, or in some way I was going to hurt him. I have good news though, it does get better. Communication is a must in this area, and the more you are intimate with your partner, the easier it will get. You will still always be “aware” of the cords, but it does become more natural.

The emotional aspect of being with someone with an LVAD is the most difficult for me, but it is just as emotionally difficult for Jason. It is scary being with someone with an LVAD, but then again it was hard being with Jason just with his CHF. For the most part it is just dealing with the unknown. For Jason and I that meant that we knew we needed more than each other, we needed faith in our lives. With faith we are able to accept thing as they are and Thank God for everything he blesses us with each and every day. It doesn’t mean that we’ve had an easy road, it has been very hard, but we have faith that God is constantly watching over both of us. Jason and I were lying in bed one night praying, and he started to get emotional. When I asked him what was wrong, he said he was just thanking God for his life…now that’s awesome.

Living with an LVAD, Jason has what he calls “LVAD sad days” . While he doesn’t have them very often, I never dismiss his fears or feelings. He told me not too long ago that he’ll find me when I get to heaven. Although I felt like crying, I said "and if I get there before you, I won’t stop looking until I find you Jason." If you think about what could happen you will never enjoy the moment you have right in front of you. We always share our feelings and nothing is ever left unsaid between Jason and I. I will end saying this. Being in love with someone with an LVAD isn’t always easy, but I’ve never been so proud of someone in my whole life.

MyLVAD would like to thank Shannon for her openness and courage to share her story with our community. Share your thoughts and how you have dealt with some of the same issues on your journey.

___________________________________________________________________________

I love you more than enough... Post from Our Life Our Love His LVAD

by: Shannon Jarratt

I decided to write this knowing that there are so many Caregivers/Wives/Girlfriends that will be able to relate to this post, hope you enjoy. I loved writing this for Jason.

To My Jason:

I love you more than enough...

I love you more than enough, to ask the hard questions and to be your voice.

I love you more than enough, to stand beside you when things get tough.

I love you more than enough, not to take it to heart when you get frustrated.

I love you more than enough, to make sure our relationship is rock solid.

I love you more than enough, to dress you when you are too sore.

I love you more than enough, to cherish every moment we get to spend together.

I love you more than enough, to do everything in my power to keep you safe.

I love you more than enough, to make you feel special each and every day.

I love you more than enough, and I feel so honored to be with you.

I love you more than enough, to snuggle with you, at the hospital, in your bed.

I love you more than enough, to know that you are the most amazing man I've ever known.

I love you more than enough, to make sacrifices for you.

I love you more than enough, and I love you more and more each day.

I love you more than enough, and I know God blessed me the day he led me to you.

I love you more than enough, not to let fear get to me.

I love you more than enough, to go hunting with you, just so I can be by your side.

I love you more than enough, to be your number one supporter.

I love you more than enough, to tell everyone how awesome you are.

I love you more than enough, to never leave you.

I love you more than enough, to feel strong enough, to have your life in my hands.

I love you more than enough, and I love you with everything that I am.

I love you more than enough, to want to be your wife one day.

I love you more than enough to educate others in the hopes that no one feels alone.

I love you more than enough, to fight for you.

I love you more than enough, to find the best help for you

I love you more than enough, to educate myself more each and every day.

last but not least..

I love you more than enough, to love you for the rest of my life.

Happy Valentine's Day Honey!

On this Valentine’s Day, I will promise to love you forever…

On your LVAD sad days, I’ll do everything in my power to make you smile…

 On the days when you don’t feel like fighting, , I’ll fight for you…

On the days when there’s disappointment, I’ll remind you of the light at the end of the tunnel…

On the days when you get frustrated because you’re hooked to a twenty foot cord, I will tell you how happy I am that you are still here with me…

On the days when you’ve been strong long enough, I’ll be there to cry with you…

On the days when you feel broken, I’ll remind you that Gods watching over us…

On the days your feeling insecure, I’ll tell you how awesome you are…

On the days when life doesn’t seem fair, I’ll be there to hold you…

On the days that you don’t want to stand up for yourself, I’ll stand up for you…

On the days when you can’t find the words, I will be your voice…

As long as there is breath within me, I will always love you, and continue to honor

 you each  and every day of my life.

Happy Valentine's Day Sweetheart!

Kenny Chesney - Me And You

Jason & LVAD Friends On Pinterest...

Yes,  I have to say, My name is Shannon Emory, and I am addicted to Pinterest! For those of you who don't know Pinterest is an Online Clipboard for just about anything!
I made a "Board" on there for Jason and LVAD Friends. This board includes motivational Quotes that I hope you all will love, I will also keep this open for others to add "Pins" also. I will have to add the names so just send your name to be added! If you are not yet a member just send my your email and I can invite you.Have a Great Day, and Have Fun Pinning!



                                        

Give the Gift of Life...

I know I had made a short but sweet post regarding Organ donation before, but I wanted to get in depth just a little more this time.  Now, believe it or not as a person I can be pretty reserved around people I don’t know… and shy? ..Yes that’s me too sometimes. So thank goodness that God gives me the strength to get some guts sometimes when it is needed!  Though this journey Jason has given me tremendous strength to ask hard questions, get involved, and fight for what I believe in…and the funny thing is,  he doesn’t even know it…

 I became an organ donor at the age of eighteen, and I also made sure to tell my mom and dad my decision also. It made me feel great that someone else could live on because of the awesome choice I made…and I loved that! I have always donated blood until I was told that I could not give blood anymore because of the medication I was taking for my epilepsy, at the hospital where I was working.  Now, I have to clear my conscience here and say that I had given blood and did not let them know I was taking medicine in the fear that I wouldn’t be able to donate. In my young mind, I figured they could just “clean my medicine out” and still use it. It did though, disappointment me very much that I couldn’t help people anymore.

I was talking to an acquaintance one day about Jason and all the updates and when I was finished I asked if they were an organ donor. She sadly said no. When I asked her why, she stated that her uncle (which was a cop) told her not to be an organ donor because the doctor would fight as hard to keep you alive. This just broke my heart. She is in her early 20’s and is just doing what someone else has told her to do, which I can fully relate to that. Its sad though, Would she or her uncle feel that way if someone in their family needed an organ to live?  It is because of this that I wanted to list a few myths about organ donation.

·         The doctors won’t work hard to save my life If I am an organ donor.

 Doctors are dedicated to saving people’s lives…They are not thinking about saving someone’s life instead of your just because you’re an organ donor.

·           I am under 18, I can’t make this decision.

You can make this decision, and it would be an awesome thing! You do however need your parent’s signature.

·         I won’t be able to have an open –casket funeral.

YES YOU CAN! Your friends and family will not see any visible signs of the organ donation. You will still look as Beautiful/ Handsome as ever!

·         I’m too old to donate…

Doctors have successfully transplanted from donors in their 80’s.  Let your doctor decide what will be suitable to use for transplantation.

·         Organ Donation is against my religion.

That may not be true. My religions have belief that organ donation is fine.  If you have questions you can go to OrganDonor.gov, or you can always ask your clergy.

·         My family will be charged if I donate my organs.

This is not true. There is no charge for the donor regarding organ donation. Any cost for organ donation would go to the transplant recipient.

I never asked many people whether they were a organ donor or not. At that time, I knew I was and that’s all that mattered. I don’t know why, but still today when I ask people if they are an organ donor, It almost feels like I’m asking them how much money that have in their bank account. I did a poll on Facebook and Twitter.I was so happy to see that many people don’t take offense when you ask them if they are an organ donor, but I will say I have had some to say yes, that they do think its too personal. While I was doing the research for the post I also found out that only 35% of licensed drivers are registered to be an organ donor that number is way too low and I would definitely like to see that increase in 2012 and the years to come. If I have to ask everyone I meet I will.

*If you are still unsure about Organ Donation, just please know that If you choose to be an organ donor you can help more than 25 people. On average, 18 people die a day waiting for a transplant. Right now there are more than 112,595 Americans on the UNOS Transplant List, 3,164 of them are currently on the Heart Transplant list.  Your legacy will live on forever. I know I will be forever grateful to the person that made an awesome decision to become an organ donor and ultimately give Jason the gift of life. I will wake up every morning beside him, blessing that person , and I would never forget them as long as I live.

If you would like to sign up to be a donor you can visit :

www.donatelife.net

www.dmvnow.com

www.nationalnetworkoforgandonors.org

                                                                                    

Reflections of 2011

As we begin 2012,  I can’t help to remember some great events of 2011. First and foremost, I want to Thank God for continuing to watch over Jason every single day. Secondly?  ...All the Doctors, Nurses and Staff at MCV. That they have been wonderful is almost an understatement…They have been better than wonderful. It really means a lot to me for them to care about Jason’s health as much as I do.

In May of 2011 Jason and I moved in together. That was HUGE for me. In a perfect world, especially since we have kids we would have continued to live separately until we got married, but what can I say... CHF happens! I felt that it was no longer safe for Jason too live by himself, when there were so many things that could happen.  So he moved in, and surprisingly enough I’ve adjusted well…lol. I only work 10 minutes from my house and My father had to moved in 2 years ago, so there is always someone there to watch over him when I’m not there. Not so much now, but It really helped out when Jason came home from the hospital.
...and if you are wondering…we will soon be heading down the road of blissful matrimony, but not quite yet. (but I’m Waiting ..Jason..Hint Hint!)I know he’s here to stay, and he knows I’m not going anywhere. If the CHF and LVAD and everything that comes with it didn’t scare me…nothing will!

I’ve defiantly got to mention all the wonderful people we have met in our LVAD journey. They have been so awesome. When I began this journey with Jason a few weeks  Pre- LVAD, I could only count on one hand the support We had. While that meant the world to me, Post –LVAD has been mind blowing! I’ve got to say Facebook is been wonderful. You have so many groups to choose from and everyone is SO sweet! We are still trying to get there with Twitter, but I have full faith that we will in 2012.

Unfortunately, Jason did not get a donor heart in 2011. Again, I will say that I have faith that 2012 will be a great year for us. If he doesn't get one in 2012, I will hold strong to my faith and in the belief that God will lead a to the perfect donor when the time is right.

I hope that 2012 will be a year to create more awareness of LVADS and organ donation and everything else in between. So celebrate the upcoming New Year with a new drive, continued faith, and of course..a lotta love!                                                           

Yes Virginia...There is a Santa Claus

Jason and I watched this little movie last night on NetFlix. Its about a little girl that wanted to know that Santa Claus was real, and wrote her local paper. This is based on a true story. After watching the movie ( which is only about 30 minutes) Life is full of believing in things...seen and unseen.

THIS IS THE ARTICLE FROM THE SUN, 1897

VIRGINIA O'HANLON 1889-1971

FRANCIS P. CHURCH (EDITOR)

Travel Insurance with an LVAD

Jason and I took the kids to North Carolina last year for our Summer Vacation. Jason decided then that he wanted to make a tradition to stay at the same house every year for our family Vacation. Even though he would not be able to get in the water this year, he still didn’t want the kids to miss out.  I was definitely getting the Insurance this year just in case we got the “Jason come get your heart” call during our vacation.

I called to make sure that we would get a portion of our money back if the “special” call came in. The rental company sent me to the insurance company that they use. I explained Jason’s situation and then I was told they would not cover that because it’s pre- existing.  I don’t want to get the company name out because I don’t want to get in trouble, but this really gets under my skin. Death is one of the things they do cover. I asked her why they cover death, and just like I thought she said” because no one knows when they are going to die.” Then I said, “Well no one knows when Jason’s “special” call will come in either.” She really didn’t know what to say to that.

She proceeded to tell me that I should care about the money, if the “special” call comes in. Well, I’ll tell you why, (and I didn’t say this) because getting a nice vacation house for a week is expensive, and If she thinks I shouldn’t  worry about, than why are they worried about giving us our money back??

Maybe they really haven’t had much experience with people that are awaiting a transplant that’s all I can guess. I did let her know that I knew if wasn’t her fault, that it just makes me sad that we can’t stay in the same place this year.  She understood and we wished each other a Merry Christmas (well she said Happy Holidays..grrr) and then hung up.

There still is good news here though…I found a company that would cover us! They are called travel guard, and I will add the cost is very reasonable. Now there are a few conditions with having the pre-existing policy with them, but nothing really to get worked up over. You do have to get a note from your doctor saying that it is safe for you to be traveling (which is good anyways). So there is still hope, you can go on a wonderful Vacation with your family. Now the only thing you’ll have to think about losing when that “special” call comes in…is your LVAD, and that’s a good thing!

My Love Letter Pre LVAD Surgery...And Life Lessons..

Now I know what you're thinking, what does the love letter have to do with an LVAD blog...Well alot  because not only is this an LVAD blog, but it is also about our life and our love.

Today I wanted to share the importance of putting everything out there. If you are like me, sometimes I say it better on paper..or on a blog. I've gotten alot better though, Our relationship has gotten alot deeper since the LVAD surgery (and I love it)
 I've always been one those people that would regret words that had gone unsaid. I will add there are still people in my life that I have yet to say everything I want to to them ...but Jason is not one of them. The truth is sometimes its HARD to talk to people,( not Jason) thats when a letter is needed. That way you said everything, that is needed to be said, and what that person does with it is left up to them.

I've got to say, I've always been a sweet and tenderhearted person, but I never went out of my way to show strangers my true heart. Now, if they have impacted my life, I make sure to let them know no matter how awkward it makes me feel, Im always happy in the end. You never know how much something you say or do will impact someone elses life. Strangers that we have met that are so sweet, willing to offer advice, and truly care? They blow my mind each and every time, I have even be known to cry from an email a time or two.

I was given the impression as a child not to cry, and I still have I hard time when I just can't help it! I even apologized to Jason at a viewing this week, because I couldn't get "Strong" enough to stop. All he said was "It's ok Shannon" and just held my hand. Somehow, I have the mindset that cry is being weak, when it should only be letting others know you have a heart.

When Jason was in the hospital I was so scared a few days before his surgery, even though I knew God would be watching over him. I wrote him this letter so nothing would be left unsaid,( I knew if I started reading it myself, the flood gates were gonna open..)   ENJOY!

09/23/2011

Jason,

 I just wanted to write you a quick note, of encouraging words and of course love. I cannot believe that it has been almost a year in a half since “we” first began.OH MY GOSH! (can you hear me saying it…LOUD..?)  I still feel the same today, as I felt back then. You still give me butterflies, I still get nervous and our relationship never gets boring.

 I remember talking to you all night on the phone and knowing how lucky I was that we found each other again. Believe me,  I know we haven’t had the easiest road by any means, but our love conquered everything that anyone or anything threw at us.  There were plenty of times that we could’ve turn our back on one another, but It says a lot for us… that we never did.

I love so many things about us. The best thing, beside our love… is our laughter. I love laughing with you, and I love the way you hold on to me when you laugh. I love being close to you. I could never get close enough, or kiss you enough.  I know… I’m greedy right?

I could never imagine a life without you. You are the first thing I think about in the morning and the last thing I think about when I close my eyes at night (even though you’re right there!) I know I sound like the movies..but you complete me. I have everything I’ve always wanted with you.. and yes I mean everything . There’s no way for you to ever know how much love is in my heart for you.

I know we have a long, exciting, scary road ahead of us, but I am so ready for it. Yes, there may be days that things seem unfair..and it is, but we are blessed in so many other ways. How many people do you know that have the love that we have? Its sad to say, but not many.  I’ll be there to help you, to comfort you, to cry with you, to be happy with you and to cheer you on, every step of the way.

 That’s all for now, just don’t ever doubt my love for you, even for a minute.  I am honored to call you my boyfriend, and I feel like the luckiest girl in the world  each and every day with you by my side.

All my love,  Shannon

                                                                                                       

Stand Proud... with your LVAD

When I first knew that Jason was going to get an LVAD many questions and thoughts came up. One thing I was worried about was Jason feeling self conscious with the LVAD. Now looking back, I just have to laugh at myself. Alot of times though... I worry more than him! I never forget the first time we went out together(same day of his discharge) , he said " Only a few people looked at me" and I said "oh really?, I didn't see anyone look at you"...(which I hadn't) Now when Jason goes out, sometimes people will come up and ask him what it is. I remember the first time I was with him when someone asked him about the LVAD. He was excited to let them know, and told them all about the LVAD, he made me so proud, I thought I was going to cry!

Another thing I was worried about was how he would be in front of me. I never wanted to have him feel shy or embarrassed. I'm happy to report..that didn't happen either! He runs around (not literally) the house now with his shirt off, looking as handsome as he always has, and I love it!

If there is one thing I can say it would be this;

I know having an LVAD is not perfect, but Thank God that there is an option. With having the LVAD,  you now have the knowledge and experience to help, educate and comfort others,  and you are now spreading the word about LVAD's so more people will know about them. Not to mention everyone you talk to might become an organ donor because of you.
So, Stand Proud with your LVAD...STAND PROUD!

If your Having Heart problems.. Don't Settle for the B Team..Get the A Team!

First off, to those of you that don't know Jason, he is a very laid back, go with the flow type a guy. He thinks EVERYONE has his best interest at heart. In an earlier post I mention that Jason had a doctor, that I didn't care for too much. He was the doctor that told him that he only had 3 to 5 years ( in 2009)  left and did not want him to working,because he wanted him to enjoy the rest of his time here.

When I met this doctor myself in 2010, I wasn't impressed. He seemed very irritated with all the questions I was asking and always seemed like he was in a hurry. When I always at the hospital with Jason in May 2010, I have no doubt that God lead me to every question I asked, and he gave me the strength not to back down.

When I asked him would Jason be holding my hand, and rocking beside me in a rocking chair when he was 60..the doctor said no. I can't even begin to describe that feeling I felt. One thing Im sure of though. God DID NOT make me wait 35 years to find my perfect love, just to take him away from me..

Oh- and I will add that the doctor NEVER told us about the LVAD!!

Thank goodness we found the A team at MCV. They are the best doctors and nurses and are more than happy to answer any questions I have. That meant alot to me..because Its not just Jasons life..this involves everyone that loves him. 

The message that I want you to take from this post STAND UP for your loved one. I have stand up for " my Jason" more than once, and he didn't always like it. You know what though?  I will never regret fighting for the best care for  him, because I always do..and always will!