Surgery Update

First I will report that Meredith had a good time in Oklahoma and even asked me when she got back "Why do we live somewhere where big piles of dirt block our view? In Oklahoma I could see forever and it was great!!" I of course was unable to explain, because it is beyond explanation.

Meredith went to her first Sacrament Meeting last week. It is the first time she has been around so many people so there was plenty for her to look at.

Regarding her surgery, we have decided to have Dr. Mee of the Cleveland Clinic perform the surgery. We do not know when it will be exactly, but sometime in the next 4-5 months was his best guess. We have prayed and believe that this is what will be best for Meredith. In the end, it was a bit of a no brainer. Although Dr. Hawkins is an excellent surgeon, Dr. Mee practically invented the surgery that she will be having.

-Chip

Travel Time

After doing more research Stephanie and I decided to get a second opinion on Meredith's heart, and the best surgery for her. We sent copies of her records to Dr. Roger Mee at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. He has done the most double switch surgeries in the United States. Given that the double switch is one of the most risky surgeries we really wanted a second opinion. The double switch, if successful, will give her the best long term prognosis. However, there are other surgeries that have a lower initial risk but not as good of a long-term prognosis. The stress and pressure of making the right choice is immense.

As I type this Stephanie and Meredith are in Oklahoma visiting relatives. This trip was prompted by the fact that some of our relatives may not ever get to see Meredith, they may die before we get back out there or Meredith could die during or after her surgery. Lucky for me I have 2 great sisters close by that are chipping in to help me with the rest of the kids. However, it will be a lonely week without 2 of my favorite girls!

-Chip