Why We Do This: LVAD_one 2009 Days +

“So yes, we engage hope and strive to do our best, but our vision for this patient’s future is sometimes less than vibrant- for the reasons stated above.  Many of us have become LVAD pessimists.”

2009 days x 24 hours x 60 minutes = 2,892,960 minutes of life support…

Editor’s Note:

I think there is a tendency at times among perfusionists, to develop tunnel vision regarding our expectations for patient outcomes.  After years of experience we have developed a mental blueprint or a set of criteria by which we presume the path of the patient we are putting on (or coming off) CPB-  to go.  In our minds eye, we have projected the life style they will be relegated to.

• A baby?  “Yep we made a difference“.  
• A 50 y/o male?  “The widowmaker didn’t get him“. he’s got a shot at a new life.  
• The 30 y/o MVR or AVR from infectious endocarditis (secondary to IV drug use)?  “I won’t go there- I am not one to judge but recognize it as a grim set of circumstances”.  
• The LVAD?  “In two days he’ll be a BIVAD, send him out to another facility“.

Our view of the very technology we use to bridge compromised hearts, is less than optimistic for a variety of reasons stemming from poor prior outcomes, the multiple times where hope DID rise- only to be dashed again, or because we see them so infrequently that medical management is the weakest link in the process.

So yes, we engage hope and strive to do our best, but our vision for this patient’s future is sometimes less than vibrant- for the reasons stated above.  Many of us have become LVAD pessimists.

So with that said, I once again introduce you to Michael Johua Morris, whom I interviewed here 3 years ago, and is past day 2009 (and counting) with an implanted  HeartMate II from ThoraTec.

3.5 years ago

Right around now

The pictures above and below will show you why we should never underestimate the contribution we may be making towards the continuation of life and love…  🙂

Frank

From The Bottom Of My LVAD, Life With A Heartmate 2

This pretty much says it all…  This guy has never wavered in an effort to help those around him and give people hope where there was none before.  I am humbled by his courage.

Joshua- Trying to help a younger version of himself:  Colby Carlson

Hang TUFF young man!

=

To Help Colby (a 13 year old boy with an LVAD) buy a cool T Shirt!

Click on picture above to go to link…