Follow-up Appointment with Dr. Garabedian

May 1st, Elisha had her surgery follow-up appointment with Dr. Garabedian.  It had been two weeks since her ASD heart surgery and we were looking forward to hearing what her restrictions would be for the next several weeks while she continued to heal. The healing process for E has been absolutely amazing.  She was tired for a couple of days, and sore from her surgery site for a few more, but she healed quickly and is almost completely back to normal.

Elisha's post-surgery heart beat.  So crisp and strong!
They did an echo cardiogram on her before meeting with the doctor. For the first time, he actually looked well rested (I swear that man never sleeps).  But he brought fantastic news!

First off, since this was our second child with a heart defect, we asked him if we needed to have our other two children screened for heart defects.  The answer was No.  (sweet!)

Elisha was released to do EVERYTHING immediately.  She had absolutely no weight or exercise restrictions.  All he asked was that she continue to take her Plavix for 2 more months to make sure she has no clotting issues until her device scarred over, and then aspirin for 6 months. Aside from that, there were no requirements.  He asked to see her again in 6 months just to make sure and then he wouldn't have to see her again.

She mentioned that you couldn't even see the scars on her legs from the surgery site.  How crazy is that?

Needless to say, we are very excited.  He said there should be no more shunting, her heartbeat is strong and crisp - before they were lazy and rounded - more like a blip and several rolling speed bumps.

Now, she's back to training, though she had to take a medical red-shirt at EWU for the outdoor season. But she is working hard, getting her strength back, and preparing to have a crazy-awesome indoor season next fall!

Thank you everyone for your love, support, and prayers during this family crisis.  The outpouring has been incredible.

And thank you to those who have donated to Allred Hearts.  We've already raised $100 - 10% towards the $1,000 we need to get the non-profit up and running.  If you would like to donate, but haven't had a chance yet, you can donate on the picture below.

Until next time....


 Help us to help others with congenital heart defects. Donate today!
Help us to help others with congenital heart defects.  Donate today!
                               

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