My son Jason(10 months old) Ross-Procedure surgery next month

[Rhonda]

Hi all,

Jason had his appointment yesterday with his PC. Of course his AI & AS increased, along with L ventricle size. they incresed his Captopril from 2mg to 4mg 3 x day and then sent me down for a chest xray and then was told to come back in three weeks for repeat testing. Well at 5:00 his PC called me at home and informed me that Jason has cardiomegaly and he is calling the surgeon to set up surgery next month. I thought I ready ready to handle that news but when I was told I broke down in tears. All I can picture is seeing Jason hooked up to tubes, like the picture of Evan. I am so scared. They are setting up surgery with Dr. Bove at U of M. If anyone knows of him can you please give me your input on him, I was in the process of researching a surgeon, I just didnt't think it was going to be this soon. I am putting my baby's life in his hands, I don't even have any idea how many Ross-Procedures he has done.

Katie I forgot to ask about that new valve, but I will be calling him today to ask more questions, i will ask him about it then. If anyone can think of any other questions I should be asking can you please let me know. Also does anyone know how long Jason will stay in the hospital after surgery? Well I just wanted to let all know Jasons situation. Please pray for a sucessful surgery and for me to be strong enough to handle all this.

Also I want to thank all that replied to my last post, your support means so much to me.


Rhonda mom to Jason 10 months AI & AS

[mainframe]

Hi Rhonda,

Glad you found the Ross Procedure listserve. Several there have been through what you and Jason are going through. Ms. Deam is very helpful to other parents in sharing her and Evan's story

Dr. Bove at U of M is a surgeon who is mentioned often as someone very experienced with pediatric Ross Procedures. I believe you will be in very good hands.

God bless. You and Jason will be in my thoughts and prayers.

[Mara]

Rhonda

There never seems to be enough time to get ready for this surgery. The Ross is a good operation and little kids. like your son, do well with it. It's us older people who have trouble. I am sure your son will do just fine.

I have heard of Dr. Bove, he has an excellent reputation. U of M is a top hospital. I know it is hard to do, and easy for me to say, but relax and think of how much Jason will be able to do after the surgery. He will be such a cool little kid. You know kids are so innocent and carefree that the thoughts we have about surgery never occur to them. It is a big, scary operation, but not as bad as you think. I thought I'd be very ill afterward and really was only sick for a few weeks. Concentrate on what the lasting effects of the surgery mean---you and Jason will have all those fun kid things to do, and he will be able to do little league and run and jump and play just like any kid. That's what makes the surgery worth it. Jason is so young he will probably never remember the surgery, you will stress out way more than he ever will. You are doing the right thing, Rhonda, you're giving Jason the chance he needs. The alternative is unthinkable. You can get through this, and I know you and Jason will.
Good luck and God bless you.
-Mara