Thinking about next week
We are really hoping to get out and go to church tomorrow. I will continue my rehab program through next week and then on Thursday of next week I have a follow up appointment with my surgeon and plan to get feedback on how well things are going from his perspective.
1st Mile
Today, (Sat Mar 20th) I walked my first full mile on the treadmill (since it is snowing really hard now). It took almost 25 min to get there, but it felt so good to know that I could do a full mile!
I feel stronger everyday; like exercising, the hardest part of rehab is just getting started. My goal is to stay focused on the rehab without over doing it.
I feel stronger everyday; like exercising, the hardest part of rehab is just getting started. My goal is to stay focused on the rehab without over doing it.
1st time Out of the House
Today (Saturday -Mar 20) was my first day out of the house since coming home from heart surgery exactly a week ago. Kyleigh and I have a morning tradition on Saturday’s of going to get doughnuts together. The bad roads weren’t going to keep me home from this ritual and we had a great time. My mom still had to drive us, but it was so good to be out of the house - at least for a few minutes!
It was also good to spend to some QT (quality time) with Kyleigh. She is doing so well since her world has been turned upside down. Today was a good chance to start getting back to some sense of normalcy.
It was also good to spend to some QT (quality time) with Kyleigh. She is doing so well since her world has been turned upside down. Today was a good chance to start getting back to some sense of normalcy.
Baby Kate Update
Kate is doing better every day. She actually lost a bit of weight at her check up on Tuesday of this week but hopefully with an increase in milk, she will have gained for her next Dr appointment. She has been sleeping in 2-3 hr. stretches.
Danielle is doing awesome, but still trying to get some sleep during the day. We also believe that Kate has reflux, similar to what Kyleigh had, so it may be more extra work with her until we get her past that phase.
Danielle is doing awesome, but still trying to get some sleep during the day. We also believe that Kate has reflux, similar to what Kyleigh had, so it may be more extra work with her until we get her past that phase.
Rehabilitation Update
I have learned that in doing rehabilitation, it is important to get in a routine and endure some pain, compared to sitting around waiting to feel better. This week I actually did a poor job of blogging (not really a professional blogger) as I felt it was more important to walk and work compared to writing about it. That being said, many people have asked for a status update so thought I would take this beautiful Saturday to update our family blog.
This Monday, Mar 15th was my first day on the treadmill. I noticed my last work out in January was something like 40+ min. and 3+ miles. Monday’s 1st work out was at 1.5 MPH, for 5 min. and less than a tenth of mile. Amazing how far I have to go.
I continued to work up to 3 times per day and my sessions on the treadmill were able to increase about 2 min. per time.
Mid week, Mom and I took our first stroll through the neighborhood and opted to do the ½ mile loop. I felt good for the first part and then when we got half way through, I was looking for a ride back, but we made it back to the house. (It is amazing how a small hill seems like a mountain to me!) By Thursday, I was able to try the ½ mile walk again and only stop a couple of times to catch my wind. It was great, as Danielle and Kate walked with me, as Mom took Bailey dog the other direction.
This Monday, Mar 15th was my first day on the treadmill. I noticed my last work out in January was something like 40+ min. and 3+ miles. Monday’s 1st work out was at 1.5 MPH, for 5 min. and less than a tenth of mile. Amazing how far I have to go.
I continued to work up to 3 times per day and my sessions on the treadmill were able to increase about 2 min. per time.
Mid week, Mom and I took our first stroll through the neighborhood and opted to do the ½ mile loop. I felt good for the first part and then when we got half way through, I was looking for a ride back, but we made it back to the house. (It is amazing how a small hill seems like a mountain to me!) By Thursday, I was able to try the ½ mile walk again and only stop a couple of times to catch my wind. It was great, as Danielle and Kate walked with me, as Mom took Bailey dog the other direction.
No Schedule?
For the first time since I started college, I am NOT on a schedule. I have simple goals each morning - mostly relating to rehab and spending time with my family. I don’t rush to check emails, I don’t have a schedule and I spend very little time on the phone. I am certainly enjoying this time of peace and quiet.
That being said - I really miss my life as it was. I think this set back is good from the standpoint that I have learned I am not in control and that my faith in God and his plan are more important than my plan. Do I plan to change in a few weeks as I begin to feel better? I am sure my calendar and the “to do” list will remain a part of my life. (It is who I am.)
I do think I have a different perspective on the big picture and I try to keep the important things at the top of my list.
That being said - I really miss my life as it was. I think this set back is good from the standpoint that I have learned I am not in control and that my faith in God and his plan are more important than my plan. Do I plan to change in a few weeks as I begin to feel better? I am sure my calendar and the “to do” list will remain a part of my life. (It is who I am.)
I do think I have a different perspective on the big picture and I try to keep the important things at the top of my list.
Blessings
While it is easy to think about all the things that are not going well, I am taking this time to be thankful for all the blessings that have come from this set back in life.
Time with Kate, Danielle and Kyleigh - I am so blessed to be a part of the first few weeks of Kate’s life and see her grow and change daily. Danielle and I are able to laugh, talk and just visit. Spending this time with my family and having my mom here to help us get through this time is something that I am so thankful for.
I am so thankful for a great team that I work with, and the culture that we have built. To be able to deal with a health issue and watch the team continue without a hitch is a very cool feeling. While I miss not being at work there, is a comfort to know the team is still executing every day.
I am thankful for the new outlook I have on life. I am trying really hard to not take anything for granted. Life is so short and heath is so important, and for that I want to be thankful for every day.
I am so grateful for the friends and support system we have. It has been so amazing how people have really helped us out in so many areas: from making meals, sending flowers and cards, to shoveling the sidewalk. Our friends have made this experience so much easier!
I am blessed that we have an awesome church and God’s help as we deal with each new day! Our church family has been so amazing and we are lucky to be part of such a great Christian community.
Time with Kate, Danielle and Kyleigh - I am so blessed to be a part of the first few weeks of Kate’s life and see her grow and change daily. Danielle and I are able to laugh, talk and just visit. Spending this time with my family and having my mom here to help us get through this time is something that I am so thankful for.
I am so thankful for a great team that I work with, and the culture that we have built. To be able to deal with a health issue and watch the team continue without a hitch is a very cool feeling. While I miss not being at work there, is a comfort to know the team is still executing every day.
I am thankful for the new outlook I have on life. I am trying really hard to not take anything for granted. Life is so short and heath is so important, and for that I want to be thankful for every day.
I am so grateful for the friends and support system we have. It has been so amazing how people have really helped us out in so many areas: from making meals, sending flowers and cards, to shoveling the sidewalk. Our friends have made this experience so much easier!
I am blessed that we have an awesome church and God’s help as we deal with each new day! Our church family has been so amazing and we are lucky to be part of such a great Christian community.
Home Again, Home Again
Kevin was finally released from the hospital yesterday, 3/13, at 2:30 p.m. He was packed and ready around 7:00 a.m., so it seemed like a long day, but we are just so grateful he was feeling ready to go. The car ride home was a little difficult, but we managed ok. He spent the afternoon resting and doing his exercises and then we headed to bed pretty early. He was able to get comfortable in the bed for a while, but moved to the recliner around 4:00 a.m. or so this morning. We are hoping for even a better night's sleep tonight. He's a little more sore and uncomfortable today than he was in the hospital yesterday, but we are chalking that up to sitting in different chairs at home and not taking as much pain medication.
So, the long road to recovery is underway. The next few weeks will bring several doctor's appts, home health nurses, home exercises, short walks in the neighborhood, and lots of rest. Kevin will eventually begin a cardio rehab program in about 3-4 weeks also (he's talking about using this time to begin training for a 10K. I'm just encouraging one step at a time ;-). We expect many ups and downs along the way, but know the worst is behind us and just look forward to some great family time over the next several weeks as we get to know Kate and spend time with Kyleigh. Kevin is so strong and I have no doubt that he will walk away from this ordeal stronger and with more motivation (if that is possible) than he even had before. If anyone can do it, he can!
Thank you again to all of our friends and family for everything you have done and continue to do for us! You are all a true testiment of God's love. Please continue to pray that each day gets a little easier and less painful for Kevin and for his full recovery. I look forward to the day he can pick his daughters up and carry them around and I can give him a huge hug without worry of causing him pain!
All My Love,
Danielle
So, the long road to recovery is underway. The next few weeks will bring several doctor's appts, home health nurses, home exercises, short walks in the neighborhood, and lots of rest. Kevin will eventually begin a cardio rehab program in about 3-4 weeks also (he's talking about using this time to begin training for a 10K. I'm just encouraging one step at a time ;-). We expect many ups and downs along the way, but know the worst is behind us and just look forward to some great family time over the next several weeks as we get to know Kate and spend time with Kyleigh. Kevin is so strong and I have no doubt that he will walk away from this ordeal stronger and with more motivation (if that is possible) than he even had before. If anyone can do it, he can!
Thank you again to all of our friends and family for everything you have done and continue to do for us! You are all a true testiment of God's love. Please continue to pray that each day gets a little easier and less painful for Kevin and for his full recovery. I look forward to the day he can pick his daughters up and carry them around and I can give him a huge hug without worry of causing him pain!
All My Love,
Danielle
May be heading home soon!
It's almost time for bed, but wanted to provide a quick update:
Looks like I may be released tomorrow – we did our 2nd round of blood units today as my hemoglobin level was low and this seems to really help my energy level. Yesterday's infusion helped and we made great strides, so today is even better. I go 8 + times around the nurses' station and visit with my new friends along the way. This round of blood should help with the anemia that I've had since surgery, as I lost so much blood during surgery because of that darn Coumadin. TODAY, one of the things that really hit home was the presence of faith, family and friends during recovery time – as we walk the hallways, it's very sad to see older people trying to convalesce without anyone in their rooms to help. I'm so lucky to have emails, calls, beautiful flowers in my room, goodie bags, text messages, food delivered, and visits from all of you who have been so supportive through this entire deal. The next thing that we reflect on is how important our "team" is. My team of family have been so supportive of course, but ALSO my cardiology, neurological, surgical and nursing team have been some of the best in the business. I've developed such deep relationships that I feel very strong about ! In fact, just a few minutes ago, we finished writing thank you notes to a few people who have gone above and beyond to make my stay here as comfortable as it could have been – considering the circumstances !
What's Next ? While it's amazing the progress I have made in 3 days, I realize that there is a tremendous amount of therapy ahead for me! My challenge is going to be pushing myself everyday to get better, but not to the extreme that I hinder my health over this "several month" recovery process. I am most of all looking forward to going home and holding BABY KATE for longer than 5 minutes and listening to Kyleigh tell me stories from her experiences at school that day.
I've shared time and time again how important and strong Danielle has been through this whole ordeal, but I don't believe I could really understand the depths of her love until we went through this hardship this past 10 days. We've laughed, cried, and prayed together and through it all, we've become even better (BEST) friends. Who else can go without changing their daughter's diaper for a whole week and not get in trouble for that ? ? ha She truly has been a trooper through this !
I have the world's best parents and sister ! Mom never left my side Dad being strong for her and running back and forth from Colorado(and of course turning the updates over to Kristal was HUGE in my eyes 'cause you know my fetish about communication) Knowing how difficult it was to see me - pushing me to never stop coughing, eating or walking. The times that they knew which emotion to push and how to keep me properly motivated, for that I truly LOVE them and appreciate them ! I haven't always told my family how much they mean to me in the busyness of my life –have you done so lately !??
When we get home, I will continue to keep everyone posted. I believe that I will still take care of the priorities in my life – that being my relationship with God, my relationship with my family, my HEALTH, and my role in making a positive difference in other people's lives. I leave you with this – I firmly believe of passing it along " I am amazed at the amount of correspondence that we've received from everyone." I truly hope that we will return the favors and blessings that we have received from all of you !
As I close this – without offending my Colorado State colleagues – I hope K-State beats Baylor tonight.
God's Blessings,
Kevin
Best Day yet
Wow - we're feeling so much better today ! Last night the medication was kept on track and after getting some new blood yesterday, Kevin feels 10 times better. He slept well last night and the pain is much more manageable today.
He's not too happy with his Mom, who thinks it's ok to go for another "Cruise" around the halls. Their definitions of "coughing" are also a little different, but he knows what needs to be done, and he is doing everything that is asked of him.
Dismissal time and date haven't been determined yet, but the surgeon said his hemoglobin level is still down a bit only because he lost a lot of blood after surgery when coumadin level kicked up.
We're so glad that we're able to communicate with you through this blog - he would love to visit w/ everyone (AS YOU WELL KNOW) but for right now, he needs a lot of rest and recuperation.
AGAIN - we can't thank you enough for all you've done and have wanted to do. We only hope that we can repay your kindness in some way. As Kevin said this morning - something good will become of this and that is knowing how much we are surrounded by love and faith of family and friends.
We DO love you ALL !
He's not too happy with his Mom, who thinks it's ok to go for another "Cruise" around the halls. Their definitions of "coughing" are also a little different, but he knows what needs to be done, and he is doing everything that is asked of him.
Dismissal time and date haven't been determined yet, but the surgeon said his hemoglobin level is still down a bit only because he lost a lot of blood after surgery when coumadin level kicked up.
We're so glad that we're able to communicate with you through this blog - he would love to visit w/ everyone (AS YOU WELL KNOW) but for right now, he needs a lot of rest and recuperation.
AGAIN - we can't thank you enough for all you've done and have wanted to do. We only hope that we can repay your kindness in some way. As Kevin said this morning - something good will become of this and that is knowing how much we are surrounded by love and faith of family and friends.
We DO love you ALL !
Tomorrow Maybe
Hi everyone. This is Danielle. Kate and I got to spend the day with Daddy at the hospital for the second day (the pediatrician gave the ok to have Kate here with Daddy and things it will be healing too). It's so nice to be with him. His spirits are great and his body is recovering very nicely. We think he may be released as early as tomorrow and we are so excited. Much work and recovery are still ahead for Kevin once we get home, but just getting home and back into a routine will be so therapeutic!
This has been one of the most bittersweet, emotional, exhausting weeks of our lives and I just want to personally thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts for your love, prayers, thoughts, concerns, meals, gifts, cards, and visits. We feel your arms around us and know that we have the best family and friends in the world! We wouldn't be here without you! In some ways, we feel sad that Kevin was unable to attend Kate's birth and underwent major surgery just days after Mommy and Kate were released from the hospital themselves, but in so many more ways we feel so blessed and grateful for our faith, our family, and our blessings. Kate may very well have saved Kevin's life since we were in the hospital when this 3rd (or 4th) stroke hit.
We will post again tomorrow. Please continue to pray for Kevin's full recovery and release as soon as he is ready.
Love,
Danielle
This has been one of the most bittersweet, emotional, exhausting weeks of our lives and I just want to personally thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts for your love, prayers, thoughts, concerns, meals, gifts, cards, and visits. We feel your arms around us and know that we have the best family and friends in the world! We wouldn't be here without you! In some ways, we feel sad that Kevin was unable to attend Kate's birth and underwent major surgery just days after Mommy and Kate were released from the hospital themselves, but in so many more ways we feel so blessed and grateful for our faith, our family, and our blessings. Kate may very well have saved Kevin's life since we were in the hospital when this 3rd (or 4th) stroke hit.
We will post again tomorrow. Please continue to pray for Kevin's full recovery and release as soon as he is ready.
Love,
Danielle
Each day a little better
Good morning -
Wow - Kev was up only 3 times last night, and the pain seems to be much more manageable today.
He's already had a chest Xray, a walk to the bathroom, his meds, and is now patiently waiting for the next trip around the hallway.
Yesterday was a big turn as far as mobility and letting him do things by himself. The chest tubes came out, and that was a huge relief, IV's are all out too, so we have to work on that infamous "COUGH" and getting the lungs opened up.
Kate and Danielle stayed w/ him all afternoon and it was good quality time that they got to spend together (they hadn't had that since about the 2nd labor pain). Gram, Nana & Papa went through "debugging" the house for unwanted germs when Kev gets home. We got to spend some quality time with Kyleigh on the swingset playing "boat" and then "train."
As far as dismissal date, we're not sure, but know it all depends on Kevin's ability to do things on his own, and he has done everything they've asked of him so far. The medical staff here at Shawnee Mission Med. Center have been awesome !
Once again, we want to tell you we feel the prayers and love sent from all over the country, and that has what has sustained us thus far ! We feel so much better when HE feels better - OF COURSE ! Things are good and we are blessed !
Time for a hike - will post again soon !
Wow - Kev was up only 3 times last night, and the pain seems to be much more manageable today.
He's already had a chest Xray, a walk to the bathroom, his meds, and is now patiently waiting for the next trip around the hallway.
Yesterday was a big turn as far as mobility and letting him do things by himself. The chest tubes came out, and that was a huge relief, IV's are all out too, so we have to work on that infamous "COUGH" and getting the lungs opened up.
Kate and Danielle stayed w/ him all afternoon and it was good quality time that they got to spend together (they hadn't had that since about the 2nd labor pain). Gram, Nana & Papa went through "debugging" the house for unwanted germs when Kev gets home. We got to spend some quality time with Kyleigh on the swingset playing "boat" and then "train."
As far as dismissal date, we're not sure, but know it all depends on Kevin's ability to do things on his own, and he has done everything they've asked of him so far. The medical staff here at Shawnee Mission Med. Center have been awesome !
Once again, we want to tell you we feel the prayers and love sent from all over the country, and that has what has sustained us thus far ! We feel so much better when HE feels better - OF COURSE ! Things are good and we are blessed !
Time for a hike - will post again soon !
Progressing nicely
OK here we are on the 5th floor in CCU - having just had a bit of chicken parmesan (no vegetables) and working on some arm and leg exercises.
Kevin has had a LONG day today, and they pushed him pretty hard since 4:30 a.m. with a chest. We keep hearing that the only way to get better is to MOVE, and so he's had the 3rd walk down the hall (Without any help from anyone) and will have 1 more before bedtime this evening.
He still hurts alot, and watches the clock for medication time, but we think the drain tubes from the heart surgery will come out tomorrow, and that will help immensely.
Kyleigh had a clown and a magician come to her school and she was afraid of both she said. Kate had a great checkup today and the feeding is going well, so I think she may plan to spend some time w/ Kevin tomorrow and the Grandparents will get the house "cleaned" for Kevin's arrival home. (Don't know when ?)
Kristal wanted to stay another day because it was very hard for her to leave her brother, but the "spring break" bookings have begun, and she couldn't change.
Nana is going to spend the night w/ Kevin on a larger couch tonight, so we'll try and write again tomorrow.
Thank you again - we feel everyone's arms wrapping around us - speaking of which - give someone you love a hug.
Kevin has had a LONG day today, and they pushed him pretty hard since 4:30 a.m. with a chest. We keep hearing that the only way to get better is to MOVE, and so he's had the 3rd walk down the hall (Without any help from anyone) and will have 1 more before bedtime this evening.
He still hurts alot, and watches the clock for medication time, but we think the drain tubes from the heart surgery will come out tomorrow, and that will help immensely.
Kyleigh had a clown and a magician come to her school and she was afraid of both she said. Kate had a great checkup today and the feeding is going well, so I think she may plan to spend some time w/ Kevin tomorrow and the Grandparents will get the house "cleaned" for Kevin's arrival home. (Don't know when ?)
Kristal wanted to stay another day because it was very hard for her to leave her brother, but the "spring break" bookings have begun, and she couldn't change.
Nana is going to spend the night w/ Kevin on a larger couch tonight, so we'll try and write again tomorrow.
Thank you again - we feel everyone's arms wrapping around us - speaking of which - give someone you love a hug.
The hard work begins
Since 6:30am this morning, Kevin has been sitting up in a chair. He has already taken 2 walks and each time he adds a few more steps. He is in good spirits and is doing his very best to follow the orders. Later this afternoon, they are hoping to move him out of ICU to CCU.
Kate has her first doctor's appointment this afternoon at 2:00pm. We are all hoping to take a siesta at some point today and look forward to the continued improvement with each hour that goes by.
Kate has her first doctor's appointment this afternoon at 2:00pm. We are all hoping to take a siesta at some point today and look forward to the continued improvement with each hour that goes by.
Calling it a night
It has been a roller coaster of a day. We just left the hospital and have returned home to get a few hours of sleep. Bless his heart, he is really in a lot of pain. When we walked into the room, he just looked at us and said "sssshhh sssshhh." He is keeping tracking of when he can have his next pain medicine, and he is so weak right now. Mom is staying with him tonight to try to help relax him. This is definitely going to be a long healing process.
As Grandma Jean just said, we are going to take this one day at a time.
Good Night!
As Grandma Jean just said, we are going to take this one day at a time.
Good Night!
We are so happy!!
Kevin has just woken up, and they are in the process of removing the ventilator now. He is responding well to the nurse's commands, and they said that everything looks good now.
The ICU is closed from 6:30-8:30pm so they sent Mama, the baby and the rest of the family home to get something to eat. We will be back to check on him in just a few.
Thank you for all of the prayers and support!
The ICU is closed from 6:30-8:30pm so they sent Mama, the baby and the rest of the family home to get something to eat. We will be back to check on him in just a few.
Thank you for all of the prayers and support!
Prayers Needed
We are in need of continued prayers. The surgery went well, but they are really struggling to bring Kevin off of the anesthia. They will be trying again at 5:00pm to wake him. If they are not able to this time, they are going to wait until again tomorrow morning to try again.
Please keep Kevin in your continued prayers. It is a very emotional time right now as we have been reminded that a major risk of this surgery is another stroke.
Please keep Kevin in your continued prayers. It is a very emotional time right now as we have been reminded that a major risk of this surgery is another stroke.
Everything Went Well!
Kevin is now out of surgery and is being transported to ICU right now. We just met with the surgeon and he is pleased with the surgery. The surgeon did say that this PFO was embedded and its unique shape caused a rawness to occur. He will slowly be waking up this afternoon.
Surgery Updates
Newest report: The device and clot have been removed. They have repaired the defect. It will be at least an hour before he is removed from the bypass. Kate also just returned from her appointment with good news. The feeding is going well and Mommy is happy.
Surgery Has Begun!
We have just received the first round of updates. All is going well and Kevin is officially on bypass now. Keep the prayers coming and we will keep you posted!
Helping Communicate Kevin's Updates
As we move through the next few days, Kristal (Kevin's sister) and Irene (Kevin's mom), will be helping to update this blog. Kevin begins his liquid-only diet and will be doing his big scrub down shower tonight in preparation for surgery bright and early in the morning. Many thanks for all of your continued prayers.
Kristal
Kristal
What are the next steps for Kevin
On Monday March 8th Kevin will undergo open heart surgery to replace the PFO device with a regular patch and remove the remainder of the clot in his heart.
He should be in the hospital for 4 days and then home to begin the recovery process. It is expected to be a 2 hr. surgery – very “simple” open heart procedure says the surgeon, Restricted driving for 1 month, weight bearing for 2 months.
As more details come availible we will share with you. Right now we are working to make sure either Kevin's mom Irene or sister Kristal and update the Blog with information and keep all our family and friends posted.
He should be in the hospital for 4 days and then home to begin the recovery process. It is expected to be a 2 hr. surgery – very “simple” open heart procedure says the surgeon, Restricted driving for 1 month, weight bearing for 2 months.
As more details come availible we will share with you. Right now we are working to make sure either Kevin's mom Irene or sister Kristal and update the Blog with information and keep all our family and friends posted.
Update on Danielle and Baby Kate
They are home and doing well! – Kyleigh went to gymnastics as usual – Kate is learning to eat like a big girl, and sleeping well.
Danielle has been so strong through all of this. Danielle is doing awesome adjusting to being home alone and still supporting the entire family through this hard time.
Kate is getting bigger everyday and healthy which is all we can ask for!
Danielle has been so strong through all of this. Danielle is doing awesome adjusting to being home alone and still supporting the entire family through this hard time.
Kate is getting bigger everyday and healthy which is all we can ask for!
What happened?
The doctors have said time and again, this is nothing Kevin could have done to prevent this. Initially, he was born w/ hole in heart – He had PFO device inserted through the groin in Aug. 07 – see below for link details. Details from 2007
Jan 31st 2010 second stroke
Last month Kevin suffered a second stroke following a run through the neighbor w/ the dog. The doctors found a clot on the atrium wall of the heart where the device kept striking At this point, it was decided to treat with blood thinner, Coumadin The goal was that the clot would dissolve and he would remain on blood thinners for life
March 3 Stroke during Kate's Birth
Danielle and Kevin came to the hospital to have their second child. Kevin Felt fine as Danielle was progressing through childbirth labor stages 15 min prior to administering the epidural, Kevin began to feel very light headed and could not focus. Vision was impaired and he could not focus on anything.
Nurses could tell something was wrong and they sent him to ER for a checkup. Upon an MRI, it was determined that another small stroke had occurred which impacted his vision, which has since cleared to normal.
Kevin was able to see Kate a few minutes after the birth but then he was checked in to the hospital and extensive testing began. The next step was to do a TEE and they found that there was still a clot in his heart and that the PFO closure device was protruding, therefore a cause of the clot formation.
Jan 31st 2010 second stroke
Last month Kevin suffered a second stroke following a run through the neighbor w/ the dog. The doctors found a clot on the atrium wall of the heart where the device kept striking At this point, it was decided to treat with blood thinner, Coumadin The goal was that the clot would dissolve and he would remain on blood thinners for life
March 3 Stroke during Kate's Birth
Danielle and Kevin came to the hospital to have their second child. Kevin Felt fine as Danielle was progressing through childbirth labor stages 15 min prior to administering the epidural, Kevin began to feel very light headed and could not focus. Vision was impaired and he could not focus on anything.
Nurses could tell something was wrong and they sent him to ER for a checkup. Upon an MRI, it was determined that another small stroke had occurred which impacted his vision, which has since cleared to normal.
Kevin was able to see Kate a few minutes after the birth but then he was checked in to the hospital and extensive testing began. The next step was to do a TEE and they found that there was still a clot in his heart and that the PFO closure device was protruding, therefore a cause of the clot formation.
A Note of Thanks
So many of you have expressed concern and prayers for us and we know that most of you are wondering what in the world has happened. Because of the situation, we simply can not talk to everyone and we have opted to post on our blog what is going on with our family to prevent any misinformation, but most importantly to keep all friends and loved ones in the loop.
We are very blessed to have Danielle’s mom Cindy here helping us and Kevin’s parents, Maurice and Irene in town. Kevin’s sister, Kristal is flying into KC today. So many friends in KC are helping us out, all of which we appreciate so much!
We are so lucky to have our Church Family at Resurrection West being with us and praying for us, our faith in God and ability to trust in his will is what is definitely getting us through this challenging time.
Finally, we can’t say enough about the Staff at SMMC and how awesome they have been to us. We greatly appreciate the nurses & doctors at Shawnee Mission Medical Center for all they have done for us
We are very blessed to have Danielle’s mom Cindy here helping us and Kevin’s parents, Maurice and Irene in town. Kevin’s sister, Kristal is flying into KC today. So many friends in KC are helping us out, all of which we appreciate so much!
We are so lucky to have our Church Family at Resurrection West being with us and praying for us, our faith in God and ability to trust in his will is what is definitely getting us through this challenging time.
Finally, we can’t say enough about the Staff at SMMC and how awesome they have been to us. We greatly appreciate the nurses & doctors at Shawnee Mission Medical Center for all they have done for us
What do we need?
All of you have been so understanding and right now all we need are your prayers as we get through this. We have definitely felt everyone’s loving arms surrounding us as you wait patiently of the news that will follow.
It's a GIRL ! !
Katelynn Renee Heikes finally arrived at 1:32 pm on Wed., Mar. 3 weighing in at 7 lbs, 9 oz. She is 18 inches long and has lots of dark brown hair. Danielle and baby are both doing well and we feel so blessed. Kyleigh is so excited to finally be a big sister. Mom & Kate are going home today (Friday) !
With bittersweet emotions, we must tell you that Kevin had another episode of a Stroke right when Danielle was in the labor room. He was rushed to the ER while she was very brave and delivered our beautiful daughter. (Thank God for the amazing staff here at SMMC) !
After much testing and consultation, it has been determined that the PFO device that was inserted 2 ½ years ago must now be removed. That process will be done by open heart surgery now scheduled for this coming Monday.
Thank you to all our family and friends who have been here to support us during this difficult time. We feel very blessed that we have family here with us now to help. All we ask is that you keep us in your prayers during the surgery and this transition with our new baby.
Pictures coming soon!
Love,
Kevin & Danielle
With bittersweet emotions, we must tell you that Kevin had another episode of a Stroke right when Danielle was in the labor room. He was rushed to the ER while she was very brave and delivered our beautiful daughter. (Thank God for the amazing staff here at SMMC) !
After much testing and consultation, it has been determined that the PFO device that was inserted 2 ½ years ago must now be removed. That process will be done by open heart surgery now scheduled for this coming Monday.
Thank you to all our family and friends who have been here to support us during this difficult time. We feel very blessed that we have family here with us now to help. All we ask is that you keep us in your prayers during the surgery and this transition with our new baby.
Pictures coming soon!
Love,
Kevin & Danielle
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