Health Update

Thank you for all your prayers and best wishes!

A medical report … a good one considering I spent 10 days in the hospital last month.

Great News! I had a heart inspection procedure this morning. The doctor slides a small echocardiogram device down your esophagus and closely examines all one’s heart valves. Long story short the other valves are leaking only a moderate to a small amount which means no medical action is necessary. Many people live with this kind of leakage their entire lives. My cardiac team will monitor, but there are no concerns at this time. When you combine that with the fact that my heart ejection ratio has gotten much better, my outlook is good (I received a new heart valve for one ventricle 4 years ago via open heart surgery)

Finally the medical staff believes everything that landed me in the hospital for 10 days last month were one off events that should not reoccur. When I do need a medical procedure in the future which requires me to come off my blood thinner medication, I will now have “bridging drugs” to protect against clotting and a mini stroke.

I am VERY happy, and have even taken a 13 mile bike ride over the past few days and numerous 2 to 3 mile hikes. Considering the prostate surgery complications which racked my body with severe infections and came close to killing me, life is even more precious. In short my birds await me!

11 thoughts on “Health Update

  1. Glad things are lookin up Richard- here’s to looking up-at birds! May your life continue to be filled with the things that you love… and those that you graciously share- with all of your 365 blog buddies!
    To your health!

  2. Congrats on your health, attitude, and willingness to share some of the details. I recognize some similarities in my spouse and will be supportive in light of your communication. Best to you and your family! Jeannette

  3. So great to hear this positive report on your health status. Keep up with all your hikes and biking and birding. It clearly speeds your recovery and the birds seem always ready to have you join them.

  4. Good to hear it. Your enthusiasm for birds and life comes through in your posts. I’m looking forward to more.

  5. So happy to hear that you are doing well!!! Take a deep breath, pay attention and keep those beautiful posts and photos comming!

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