. . . in a totally unexpected way. On Saturday, Bill had a heart attack.
While looking forward to taking early retirement the end of October, he was preparing to work on our daughter's new kitchen cabinets in his woodshop when he began to experience an unknown pain. Sitting down a bit did not help, so he drove home (about 12 blocks) --- upon entering our apartment, the pain increased tremendously and he said "take me to the hospital, I'm having a heart attack". Scary.
Instead, I phoned 911 --- and so thankful I did! The EMTs began treatment right away and, instead of taking him to the hospital 3 blocks from our home they drove him to a hospital about 15 miles away. I wasn't even aware of this medical center, it being only 10 years old, but they are set up especially for heart conditions. The Lord clearly prepared the way: both cardiologist and heart surgeon just happened to be there when he arrived.
After 2 stents and a few days in the hospital, he is now at home. The doctors conferred and decided that the best course of action is to have him on Plavix for 30 days, then double bypass surgery set for 30 Sept. (There is still blockage in one artery.) So far, his attitude is good. And the Lord is good.
The bit from a devotional penned on the above sketchbook page "just happened" to be the next daily entry from something I'm reading on my Kindle. It seemed to be timely words of encouragement directly from the Lord to me. I love when He does that.
Oh, that WAS a timely message. I am so glad Bill is in good hands...the surgeon's, the specialist's, yours, AND God's.
ReplyDeleteI don't believe sketching is trivial, though...it helps us find a place outside of ourselves, a little distance, perhaps. At least I find it so...calming. Offers perspective. Keeps me from panic...I think it's a gift from God as well.
Absolutely -- sketching is a gift and very calming! I was actually worried that I couldn't seem to get interested in it at the time. I was and am able to function as to what needs done, but am still in shock. I did not cry all through the hospital stuff, yet when Bill was driving us to the bank this week, he took a turn a bit fast (though safely) and I nearly broke into hysterical weeping.
DeleteWhen talking to our daughter during the stent procedure, she _very businesslike_ asked me if I had my sketchbook with me (I didn't). She knew I needed it while I waited! It is so healing to know she finally "gets" it.
I'm still not feeling inspired to sketch today; we've been taking care of details like setting up how we want his retirement to be disbursed and getting a cell phone (he will be turning his in to the company). But I will eventually find something to draw.
Oh Vicky.. smart thinking on your part. So glad he is OK for now.. Praying the operation goes well and he is back to normal soon. Nice you could journal about it. We will be rooting for him. :)
ReplyDeleteThank you for praying, Cris! Journaling about it helps me to calm down and focus --- plus I knew it might bring in others to say a prayer for Bill. I love how connected our on-line friends can become.
DeleteAnd if it happens to help someone else along the way who might be dealing with trouble of their own, I'll be grateful.
Wow, So glad that he is doing better now. I praise the Lord he is looking out for you both. I follow your blog and love all your art!
ReplyDeletePraying for you both also.
Sharon
Thank you for praying, Sharon. I'm glad you commented -- I plan on taking some time looking through your art blog. Looks inviting!
DeleteThinking of you both and sending positive thoughts for his upcoming op. x
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Anita. I remember praying during your time with your parents and think of you often, though I don't comment much. Take care of yourself and those delightful sons!
DeleteGlad he's doing better- you're both in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteToday, he's been a bit depressed at his weakness and not being able to do what he wants. I'm sure that is a normal part of the process. Thank you for praying! I continue to be amazed and grateful for caring, praying friends like you.
DeleteBill's guardian angel was working overtime this weekend, praise the Lord for all the wonderful advances in medicine. I will keep you, Bill and his medical team in my prayers... the only advise I can give you is, cut out the salt in his diet... cut it to the bone between now and his surgery it makes a huge difference, or at least it did for my husband. My husband still eats no salt at all, I do have a bit of sea salt on my food. Once you stop cooking with it, and start reading the labels on foods you'll find out how much salt is in everything we eat... and that salt is bad news for people with heart issues.
ReplyDeleteGood advice, Elaine, and thank you for praying! We avoid processed foods as much as we can because of so much added salt and proservatives. I'm trying to use a variety of herbs and garlic instead of so much salt. Choosing fresh, organic vegetables instead of canned or frozen seems to have more flavor without adding salt as well.
DeleteVicky...I will certainly keep you and Bill in my prayers! Yes, God is good...he started Bill down the right path and will continue to hold you two in his hands!
ReplyDeletePack your sketching bag for the hospital...it will keep your hands and heart calm. Bill needs to take it easy for a while afterwards...hopefully October will not be too cold for you two to get out and walk, as that is one of the best ways for him to rehab. Maybe he could start 'whittling' for a while at home, saving bigger projects for next year. Keep us posted.
Thank you, Debo. I am so grateful that God is with us and before us.
DeleteDuring the stent procedure, our daughter asked if I had my sketchbook with me (I didn't) --- she has never understood my sketching before, but seems to know it's a help. I'll remember it next time.
Walking is good; unfortunately, Bill's knee is too painful to walk just yet. Seems to be an unrelated injury to a nerve and can't be treated until the heart is stable. Lots of reading for now (he's absconded with my Kindle!)
Glad to hear he's recovering. I think feeling depressed is normal after an op & a big scare, give it time. My thoughts are with you.
ReplyDeleteIt's going to take time but I'm sure we will both get through this stronger than before. Thank you, Cathy!
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