Travel Plans

Travel plans are set! I heard from Dr. Spetzler's office today, and we are scheduled to fly out to Phoenix on January 26, exactly 5 years to the day of when we flew home from there last time. Hopefully, this is a good sign!



The projected itinerary is as follows:

1/27/09 2:00pm Office visit w/Dr. Spetzler and Dr. Fiorella

1/28/09 9:00am Pre-testing labwork and pre-op physical

1/29/09 7:00am Check-in to St. Joseph's Hospital for balloon angiogram w/Dr. Fiorella

1/30/09 9:00am Brain surgery



As this plan is quite similar to his previous surgery, we are expecting to be gone for around three weeks again. The difference is that we kind of get to have a "trial run" before the surgery. The balloon angiogram will mimic the clip that they are hoping to install during the surgery. This procedure will be done through an artery in his groin (I believe). If the bloodflow throughout the brain stem area looks good, they will have confidence that the surgery will be successful. If it doesn't look adequate, then they will have to come up with an alternate plan, which may include another bypass or some other option. While this procedure is not without risk, it is being recommended that we pursue this option. Dr. Spetzler is the best when it comes to inventing new ways to do things, and we have every confidence in his expertise. Unfortunately, installing the clip requires entering the brain again. While this means removing the skull and quite a long and painful recovery, it is the only way for it to be done.

Understandably, we are all anxious about having to go through this whole process again, but we are also feeling optimistic that this may actually be a long-term solution that will allow us to live a long and healthy life together. The kids will each be joining us on Thursday before the surgery so that they can give their dad a pep talk and good luck kiss. They will plan to spend the weekend with me and then head back to Denver, LA, and Lake Minnetonka on Sunday. Jim and I both want them to carry on with their school and work and to leave the waiting to me and the healing to Jim. If we each do our part, the transition back to real life will be much easier.

What we are asking from all of you, our friends and relatives, is for you to remember us in your daily prayers. If you have prayer chains to put Jim on, that would be much appreciated. We very much believe in the power of prayer and know that with so many people asking for God to watch over us, that he won't be allowed to ignore us and will help guide us through. I will be just a little bit crazy next week preparing for our extended stay, but I promise to keep you all informed of any new developments. I will probably begin posting new blogs after our arrival in Phoenix on the 26th. Thank you in advance for your continued support -- we love you all!

Love,
Jim and Kris