Dear friends of Richard and Dorcas… To better update everyone on the health issues concerning Richard, we are forming a blog group. So many of you care enough to want to know, and pray, that this is a way to keep everyone informed of first-hand details in a timely manner. Please feel free to give this URL address to other family and friends of Rich and Dorcas.
For those who have not yet heard, Friday, February 5th Richard suffered severe chest pains and was taken to Westmoreland Hospital. Doctors suspected he had suffered a heart attack. A catheterization revealed his heart was badly damaged, and his arteries were clogged. Doctors gave him medicines to correct the damage to his heart, and gave him oxygen and blood thinners to increase the oxygen levels throughout his body.
Doctors estimated Richard’s heart health at 15 (60 being a healthy heart) Richard received a cardio balloon pump to assist his weakened heart. Doctors were able to clear some of the plaque in his arteries, which helped improve his circulation.
Sunday, morning, his vitals were looking good, and oxygen levels were up. Then about 1:30 he had a ventricular fibrillation and Doctors were able to bring him back with medication, he was conscious and speaking through the entire process.
Monday, Richard was Life Flighted down to Allegheny General Hospital. With another assessment of his heart rated him at a 10 (less then 25% function)
Tuesday, Doctors have decided to proceed with open heart surgery and placing a Heartmate II LVAS, which will take over most of the heart functions and help bridge the time for his transplant. This surgery has an 85% success rate.
We are feeling very positive in the road to recovery that is in front of us. Please keep Richard in your prayers.
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