Thanks to our wonderful GTC family for all the prayers for Sandtrap, who was able to come home Friday night from Columbia New York Presbyterian hospital. He underwent 12 hours of open heart surgery a week ago Thursday (10/24), which included a repair of the tricuspid valve, replacement of the aortic valve, and 12 units of blood and blood products. There was a problem getting him off the by-pass machine, stabilizing his blood pressure, and stopping the bleeding of adhesions from his previous quintuple by-pass in 1987. We were extremely fortunate to have Dr. Oz (yes, the one from TV) operate because he specializes in valves, and is one of the best. Although we were told he never visits after surgery, he did come to see us twice, and kept telling me how technically difficult the surgery was, that he wasn’t sure Sandtrap was going to make it, and was very worried over the weekend.

Although there is still a long recuperation ahead, he is now walking with a walker, and is able to climb our 15 stairs, albeit with great difficulty. Home health care will start tomorrow with a visiting nurse and physical therapy. Sandtrap can’t drive for a month, and he is a terrible passenger, so that should be fun. He also can’t lift anything heavy, so thank goodness dice are light so he can practice his grip.

Thank you so very much for all the prayers and e-mails from our wonderful caring GTC family, from Afghanistan to New York, and all the places inbetween. Sandtrap is still at risk for a month, so please continue them. We hope to get to the tables soon.

Goddess 😀

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