Hospital procedure on April 14, 2008

On Monday, April 14, I was in the hospital again for another procedure. My doctor wanted to see if the artificial shunt which was placed in my body in 2004 is still open and allowing much of the blood which flows from my intestines to flow directly into the main artery which supplies blood to my heart. It was an out-patient procedure, and I was only given medication for pain which allowed me to stay awake during the procedure. The doctor was able to see that there is some blockage from blood clotting, and he was able to clear the shunt allowing blood to flow through the shunt again. After the procedure, I was taken to a recovery room for a few hours and was discharged from the hospital later that day. I will continue to have the shunt evaluated every couple of months while I wait to receive news of available organs for a transplant surgery.

I want everyone to know that I feel fine, and that my health is good especially when compared to other people who are awaiting to receive liver and small bowel transplants. My mom is also doing well, and we are both enjoying the warm weather that has finally arrived in the Pittsburgh area. My family and I very much appreciate all the prayers, e-mails, cards and support that has been given to me by so many people. We ask that you keep us in your prayers, and also that everyone become organ donors as soon as possible. I hope everyone back home is doing well, and I hope to hear from anyone who gets a chance to send an e-mail. Take care.

Thank you all!!!