This week has been a bit of a roller coaster. We left Illinois knowing that Tony had some sort of liver disease. Our thought was that we could get some ideas on how to control/stop the continued liver disease, find out how he got it, etc. After a battery of initial tests, everything is pointing to his heart. His heart is actually causing liver disease.
It’s complicated, and I am sure I am saying it wrong, but basically if your liver can’t deliver blood through the heart if the heart isn’t working well, it puts back pressure on the liver and actually pushes the blood back into the liver and then the liver starts to disease because it doesn’t know what to do with the blood.
Tony had an artificial heart valve replacement in 2007. The pericardium is a tissue that wraps around the heart to protect it. Since Tony’s surgery in 2007, the pericardium has calcified and isn’t allowing the heart to expand the way it should. So the blood isn’t coming in or out of his heart correctly, so that explains his lethargy, not being comfortable while sleeping and just over all being tired all the time.
So this morning, bright and early we will be heading in to get an MRI of his heart. Tony asked if he could get a bigger MRI this time. The one he had the day before he barely fit and he had to have his hands raised above his head for 40 minutes! So when Tony asked if he could get a bigger one, I left to go to the bathroom. I came back and Tony said “this guy just called me a wide boar!” Um, turns out that’s what they call the bigger MRI machine! I don’t care what they call it, as long as it’s comfortable for him, that’s all that matters. Based on the results of that test will determine the next course of action. I don’t want to even think about that for now, until we have all the answers. But, I know we will get the answers we need!
I luckily made some oatmeal for breakfast with a chopped green apple in it, along with a cup of coffee. I ate that at 9:00 a.m. and because we had more tests scheduled after we got there, other than a granola bar, I didn’t eat anything until nearly 6 pm!
We took the shuttle to the hospital – Mari, you’ll be happy to know they have a giant Trader Joe’s here in Rochester!
And it was a beautiful day! The high was probably 73?!
The day we checked into the hotel, the receptionist told us, if you are hungry, check out Whistle Binkie’s – its just a couple blocks away. We could never remember the name, but we just called the place Whistling Dick’s. When Tony felt up to going out and suggested Whistling Dick’s, I jumped on the chance. It didn’t hurt that I looked the place up and they had 300 beers!
And anyone who knows me well, knows that anytime I can get a Reuben I’ll nearly 99% of the time get that.
It was delicious. I am a bit particular about my Reuben. The corned beef has to be tender, the bread has to be grilled and I actually prefer the 1000 Island dressing on the side. The only thing was that I asked for sweet potato fries, but they gave me regular fries, but it was okay because that way Tony could steal a few.
So your continued prayers and thoughts are appreciated!! We feel all the virtual hugs!
Wow, what a hard blow to take!! If what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, you’re going to be one tough beyotch when this is all over. We already know Tony is tough! I’m so glad that he is doing what he has to to get diagnosed and treated for his health issues. I’m dealing with a Dad who refuses to get medical help and am watching him die. It’s really hard to understand or accept. God bless you guys – I’m saying a prayer right now.
OMG, So sorry! I’m just getting caught up on your blog and was sad to see this news. I’ll be praying, and of course hoping for some good news this week!
I’m catching up on reading for the week but I’ve been thinking about you all week. Sorry that it looks a bit more complicated – I hope that the issues with the heart are correctable!!!
And, Chris is like you, he loves Reubens!!!
Keeping Tony in my prayers! “hugs”
Gah. Praying for you! Hope everything goes well for you!
And that Reuben? The description alone made me drool!
Sending prayers and well wishes your way!
Hugs and thoughts to both of you. You are in a great place to get help, thankfully.
Maybe for the next MRI ask for an open one. They are much more comfortable.
Continued good wishes and energy from Dennis and I to you and Tony!!!!!!!! hang in there!
Good thoughts headed your way – you’re in the right place for all of this. Hang in there.
You are in good hands by God’s direction. At least the Mayo Doctor’s found the root cause and I am sure it is treatable. Hang in there.
And remember: Keep Calm ~ God’s Got It
Hey! Sorry I haven’t commented in awhile, but it doesn’t mean I haven’t been following along. Mayo’s is the best. Don’t let your mind race ahead which is easy to do in this situation. Enjoy the reuben and sit tight until all the results are in. Have faith and keep the chins up. We are all pulling for you!
Glad to hear you are starting to get answers with Tony’s health concerns. The teams of doctors will get the best plan of action for Tony. I doctor in cardiology at Mayo and trust them so much. Biz, hope you are taking care of yourself, too. Good wishes being sent your way.
<3 sending all my love to you guys from Dallas!
PS to Tony- we are all real friends and would help you move, duh.
Ugh that sucks! At least you’re finally get some concrete answers.
Hey You
Sending love and constant prayers for you! xoxoox
Sending hugs and prayers your way!
I will be praying for you!! I’m so glad you guys are finally getting some answers.
P.S. Don’t forget to take care of yourself!
The liver, the heart, the kidney aka in our house as the circular motion of life. Glad you are getting answers, and so quickly!