Tuesday, March 16, 2010

THE EAGLE HAS LANDED

Guy and Jim both arrived safely in Phoenix.  Today, Jim went through the usual pre-op tests -- blood work, x-rays, etc., followed by an appoinment with Dr. Spetzler.  Dr. Spetzler advised Jim that there is less than 50% probability that he can "clip" the artery.  Tomorrow morning, Jim  will be prepped for surgery and Dr. Spetzler will simulate clipping the artery to see if there will be sufficient blood flow.  If everything goes well, the procedure will be completed right then.  If there is not sufficient blood flow, a "wrap" will be done on Thursday.

The difference between the "clip" and the "wrap" is that the "clip" actually gets rid of the aneurysm, or, in Jim's case, at least part of the aneurysm.  His artery will be "clipped" in several places.  Since he needs the artery, it obviously can't be clipped at the bottom, or he would have no blood flow.  Instead, it will be clipped at the upper end probably above mid-point.  We're hoping that he has enough branch arteries developed to support blood flow, but we won't know until tomorrow.

In the meantime, Dad and son are having some good bonding time, while Mom played with food again.  I had a blast at the Neuse Riverkeeper Foundation's Taste of Coastal Carolina tonight.  Andy Hopper, Chef of Chefs 105 Restaurant in Morehead City, won the Culinary Combat with his 3-course breakfast.  The mystery ingredients were ground pork, mushrooms, white hominy, and jicama.  Chef Hopper presented us with a delicious citrus-strawberry-jicama salad, followed by a perfectly cooked egg topped with perfectly seasoned sausage on a hominy biscuit accompanied by delectable creamed mushrooms.  All the chefs did a wonderful job, and I came away pleasantly filled.  Restaurant of the Year Award went to The Chelsea Restaurant.  Their barbecued shrimp and grits had everyone coming back for more, and they proudly took the 2010 trophy home. 

Tomorrow is a travel day for me.  I won't be getting into Phoenix till 7:15 EST (4:15 Phoenix time), so I'm not sure when I will post an update, but I will get to it as soon as I can.

5 comments:

Coleens Recipes said...

You have nerves of steel Judy. I would be a puddle if I were in your shoes. I'm saying TWO prayers tonight for your family. Thank you for keeping us posted. Stay strong.

Kathy said...

The very best of luck to Jim and prayers, strength and courage to all of you.

Inspired by eRecipeCards said...

Jackie and I send our best

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the update Judy - I am glad even with everything going on you were able to enjoy a wonderful culinary event like that!

Safe travels to you and prayers for Jim! :D

Katy ~ said...

Am praying for you daily...