Monday, April 21, 2008

Cathiter Update

The doctor just came to speak with us; Andrew's cath is done. The problem was definitely in his blood flow & much of that was able to be corrected. They will be watching his lower left pulmonary vein as it is narrow right now, but there's a good chance it will dilate with increased blood flow (which will happen because of the other repairs made today). If it does dilate to a degree, but it looks like it is going to progressively narrow they will likely stint it. The upper left pulmonary vein is completely closed off. The good news is that the right pulmonary veins look good, so it is likely that even if both pulmonary veins are closed off (if the lower doesn't remain open on it's own or with a stint), Andrew would be able to survive with his right lung providing all the oxygenated blood. That's a mouth full & I'm sure it doesn't make much sense. The most important point is that Andrew still has a chance at life. Definitely won't be able to fight in the UFC, but I don't think there is any argument that he is the ultimate fighter.

11 comments:

Anonymous said...

That sounds hopful. He certainly is a fighter! May God do what the doctors can't do on their own. A long, healthy life ... that's my prayer.

DaD T

Anonymous said...

Steve & Betsy,

You know, there is no prize fighter that has anything on your little Andrew's toughness. We are so thankful that the procedure is over and that he is doing so good!

We continue to pray for Andrew and the two of you!

We love you,

Mike, Jennifer, Mickey & Marisa

Rich, Teresa and Kalee said...

Andrew is one ultimate fighter I would watch anytime! Although, it would be nice for him to be able to "retire" from fighting for a while so that he can enjoy the benefits from all the fights he has won. But, I won't complain. Keep fighting sweet boy!!! And we'll keep praying.

Anonymous said...

Betsy and Steve:

What a trooper and a hero!

Keep on trucken' Andrew!!!

Prayers,

Theresa and Emily

Anonymous said...

He is one very extremely tough kid. There is no doubt in my mind he is a fighter. Thank you for keeping us all posted on his progress. I find myself checking this site all the time waiting for news. If there is anything we can do please don't hesitate to contact us. Give Andrew a kiss from Uncle Mike.

Love,
Michael, Becki and Boys

The Aces said...

You sure hit the nail on the head there. As much as we like the UFC, I've never seen a fighter that could compair with Andrew!! He's got our vote for "THE ULTIMATE FIGHTER" of all time! Sending all my love & prayers! XOXOXO Bec

Anonymous said...

He sure is a FIGHTER! I love you all and will continue to pray for all of you! Please give my sweet boy a kiss and tell him his aunt Becki loves him so much!

Joshua wants you to tell Andrew he is praying for him and he had a dream about him older with a buzz haircut like Little Michael's!

Love you all
Becki

Anonymous said...

He already has those other guys pinned from the UFC with his spiritual strength. Go Andrew go!
Praise be to God for the great news from surgery.
Take care of yourselves so you can be strong for him. Don't let yourselves get run down.
Lots of love,
Dad and Dawn
even Gizmo sends a kiss, although from an infection control stanpoint, just bark for him.
(:-))

Anonymous said...

Hey Guys,
Just know we love you three so much and all of us are thinking and praying and praying and praying for you. Andrew is amazing and I'm constantly amazed by his little, BIG fight. You're quicte right, he is the ultimate fighter and I'm already proud of him (someone give that kid a big ol' belt!)
Thanks for the deligent postings. Helps us feel like we're closer than we are.

Love,
Christy

Anonymous said...

Thank you Jesus, for taking such good care of Andrew. He is so special to all of us, but then he has such special folks for parents. I love you all. Sleep well tonight.
Mom T

Anonymous said...

What a strong little one! I look forward to seeing all of the great things Andrew will do in his life. Love you!
Gina