Discouraging news

[Bill in Oregon]

Had an echocardiogram last week. My cardiologist's office called yesterday and said it was urgent that I have a telehealth conference (Mountain View Cardiovascular is 100 miles away, in Las Cruces.) Had the chat this morning and it turns out I may have a tumor -- a fibroelastoma -- on a cusp of my mitral valve. A transesophageal echocardiogram -- TEE--should provide more details. Apparently this is the most common heart tumor and if it is under 10mm and staying put, the likely therapy will be watchful waiting. If it is larger, my provider said she would probably refer me to the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix for surgical removal via femoral artery catheter. There is a remote possibility this could be the lingering bacterial legacy of a possible bout with endocarditis back in March when I had a temp of 103. Haven't been able to smell or taste anything since. She is also going to test me for lupus, as we have a lot of autoimmune issues on Dad's side.
Anywho, you get to be 73 and you start to wonder which part of the old armature is going to fail first. Good thoughts or prayers deeply appreciated. I've had a bunch of surgeries over the years, but this is new and unfamiliar ground.
I sure glad we have this place, and I am grateful for all who come here.

[JimT]

You know I am praying for you Bill!

[fordwannabe]

We have an extensive history with autoimmune diseases on my maternal side. Prayers up

[Bill in Oregon]

Thanks fellas. Truly.

[Dieselman]

I will do it right now,

Father God, I lift up to you Bill in Oregon. May you give him the strength and courage he needs right now. And may you heal him if he needs to be healed. We know that all things are possible through you Lord, so I just pray that your will be done. In Jesus name, Amen.

[High Desert Hunter]

Prayers Bill! I'm hoping to see you at another of our muzzleloader shoots here in Otero county.

Dave

[Bill in Oregon]

Thanks guys. Dave, I'm working on that.

[High Desert Hunter]

Let me know so I can ensure I am in attendance!
Dave

[4t5]

Prayer sent.

[gamekeeper]

Sending prayers Bill and I'm sure you are in good hands.

[Pat C]

Well say a prayer for you ,

[jeepnik]

Prayers up. But here's some good news. If they decide to do open heart for a valve replacement, second choice these days, the recovery is longer but not as bad as folks think. Had my atrial valve done that way because they wanted to do some replumbing at the same time. If they do a trans arterial surgery it's even less. Just had a stent done that way, and while the vale replacement is more involved, it's pretty much an everyday thing these days.

[Bill in Oregon]

More gratitude guys. I was hoping to live to April 5, 2033, the 2,000th anniversary of Emmanuel's resurrection. Probably a dream, but a good one.

[Ysabel Kid]

Prayers up for sure, Bill!

[TedH]

Prayers for you my friend. Modern medicine can accomplish some amazing things these days.

[AJMD429]

.
Prayers up for sure. You're one of the good guys. We need more like you.

[piller]

Prayers up. Do not get worried. Let GOD handle it.

[Griff]

I'll be keeping you in my prayers.

[GunnyMack]

Prayers for you Bill.
My brother in law had a valve replacement years ago, doing fine.

[TraderVic]

Howdy Bill,
Sorry to hear, lifting you up in prayer. I have a TEE scheduled August 2nd. My new aortic valve (open heart surgery on 5/28/2020) is failing and they want a closer look.
In the card game of life we have to play the hands we're dealt the best that we can. If I was a bit closer than WI, I would road trip over for a cup of coffee and conversation.
Praying for the best !
Vic

[EdinCT]

Praying for you, and the Doctors involved to have skill and wisdom only God can provide.

[Bill in Oregon]

Thanks again, gentlemen. This place almost feels like family. Rare on the Net.

[nwcatman]

what? we were just texting yesterday about Evorust. had no idea. woulda said something. sure hope all goes well!! and btw, hows Harper?

[Bill in Oregon]

John, Harper is holding her own and growing fast. Her parents have learned to take each day as it comes, which is a blessing.

[Paladin]

Prayers sent

[hfcable]

the trans-femoral catheter approach is very safe and pretty non-invasive. you will be up and around very soon after it.

my thoughts and prayers are and will be with you !

[Bill in Oregon]

Thank you Harold!

[Old No7]

Have been away from the PC a bit -- but am sending some prayers your way Bill!

Old No7

[.45colt]

Prayers Up for a complete Healing Bill. And Prayers that the Right Doctors will be involved.

[Blaine]

Old age ain't for sissies.
May the Lord keep you, and his face shine upon you and your doctors.

[ywaltzucanrknrl]

Prayers and best of luck Bill!

I hope they decide it's small enough to just "let it ride and watch it". Keep us posted.

[ywaltzucanrknrl]

Prayers and best of luck Bill!

I hope they decide it's small enough to just "let it ride and watch it". Keep us posted.

[GunnyMack]

I forgot about your little Harper! Good to hear she is ok!!!

[Bill in Oregon]

Appreciate your support, everyone, truly. At this point the main question seems to be: "Whatever it is, why, when and how might it break loose and cause mortal havoc?"

[BenT]

Stay upbeat Bill, things will pan out. Keep us posted please.