Be greatful for each beautiful day!

I read this on a bulletin board at the hospital and thought it was really beautiful.

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” ~ Leo F. Buscaglia

The past few days have been really hectic. For weeks now my Dad has having trouble catching his breath. As soon as he would start to fall asleep he would have to sit straight up and would be literally gasping for air. At first his family doctor thought it could have been an allergic reaction to a new medicine he was taking. So he took him off that but it just continued to get worse. I was really worried and begged him to let me just take him on to the er just to get checked. A few nights ago at 3 in the morning it got so bad he finally went in.

We had known for a while he had an irregular heart beat which they are able to treat with medication. But after running more tests and doing an ultrasound they found that his heart was significantly weaker than it was just two years ago. The also did a heart catheterization to check for anything. His arteries were completely clear, no blockage at ALL! Which of course was wonderful news! But afterwords his doctor explained that he did have weakening of his heart and that his heart was only pumping at a 20-25% function.(normal is 55 to 75%). They aren't sure what causeed the weakening but he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Good news is no surgery. Bad news it's a condition he will live with for the rest of his life. It was a really big shock since he had none of the other classic symptoms of heart failure. His blood pressure wasn't high. He is very healthy, eats really well, hardly drinks, doesn't smoke, and exercises. Luckily, we found out when we did. Though it was the last thing any of us expected to hear, things could have been so much worse!! They are starting him on several new medications and a blood thinner. And once his medications are adjusted and his heart rate is where they want it he will be able to go back home! Hopefully early next week. Over the next six months with the new medicine and exercise he should also be able to build the strength of his heart back up. I'm just so glad he will be okay!!

In a few days My sister will be making the move to Iowa, at the same time Josh will be leaving to go to Nashville for a week to do work for his Dad. And my Mom will be going to Florida to visit her sister and for her class reunion. So it's just me and the kiddos! It will be a looong week! Hopefully Dad will be home by then. Please send out prayers and positive thoughts!