Annette, an LVAD (left ventricular assist device) can be a great bridge until the right heart comes along, as you know, if the doctors feel Elmer is failing too fast. I know it is not the option you would prefer to see happen, but if the doctors feel it is time to do it, I would go for it. It will help buy some time, and decrease the harm to other body systems from the high PA pressures. I can't imagine how stressed you must be feeling right now!! Sweety, let God lead you to make the right decisions in this very difficult time.

Barb (((((((more hugs)))))))

Lis - thanks for the prayer my friend :o) I our virtual hugs (of course the virtual selves are SEXY LOL)

Barb - they are giving it until Sunday to see if a heart becomes available & then they will start discussing in more depth putting the LVAD in. My husband has finally resigned to the fact he may have to get one. I don't think he will need one, I know the Lord is going to provide one in time. To many pieces have fallen in place the past few days. Elmer having the right heart cath done just at the right time, my dad not going hunting for various reasons (this is the first time in over 20 years he has ever missed his annual hunting trip) my dad is not only my dad, but he is a pastor as well & he is very close with Elmer. The kids are on vacation next week so I don't have to worry about them for a week. The support I have found on here. The list just goes on & on. So I KNOW GOD IS GETTING US READY & that it is going to be very very soon!!! We are at a little more peace tonight than we were earlier today. My dad came up & prayed with us & stayed for awhile just talking & I think it is what we needed.

Erecca - you are just the best I hope you know that!! How are you feeling today???? I hope there were no ER episodes today!

To all of you who have continued to donate all day - THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU - God has truly blessed me with a wonderful circle of friends on here & that is another reason I know he is doing the last part of the preparations right now.

BUT I would like everyone to keep in mind that in order to save my husbands live another family is going to lose a family member. They are offering the greatest gift one that we will always always treasure & I'm asking everyone as we start down the final steps of this journey that you please keep the other family in your prayers.

Love
Annette

Annette, we are with you. I hope you don't feel you are alone..

Annette, you are being so brave. I cry everytime I read over this thread!! You are also very caring in your comments about what another family will have to go through in order for a heart to come available for Elmer. That shows what a kind and loving spirit you have....

I want to take a moment here and urge all forum members to make sure they and their family members have specified on their drivers licenses that they would agree to be organ donors in the event of an accident. It is not something you want to think about, but you need to before it is too late for you to make the decision. I think as we are all seeing here, it truely is the greatest gift you can give a stranger...the gift of life. :) Come on guys...check those drivers licenses today!!!

Barb

I agree Barb, but your survivors have a say in it also even if you have it checked. Make sure you talk it over with your family and tell them of your decision. My husband is torn about my decision to donate. But if he goes first, I will make sure every useable part of him is donated. Even that stoney heart of his.