Sorry for the late update today.  This morning Michelle had several tests: echo, x-ray, etc.  Got the results in the afternoon and everything looks good.  It is amazing to actually view the new valve working on the computer screen.  The old one looked very wimpy, just some tissue strands kind of flopping open and shut with leakage and backflow.  This new one opens and closes with “attitude”.  God is Amazing!  At this point, she no longer has any wires or tubes attached to her body.  Her heart rhythm is not yet where it needs to be, but that may take some time to adjust which is normal.  She will be watched very closely.  The good news is there’s no need for an artificial pace-maker (at least for now).

Michelle is scheduled to go home tomorrow (Tuesday).  She seems ready, just another step of this journey.  Her care here at U of M has been tremendous.  The nurses comment on what a great patient she has been.  They don’t have to coax her to get up and walk or remind her to do her breathing exercises like they do some others.  She is really putting in great effort to recover swiftly.  One of my jobs has become to keep her on a slow (ie: safe) steady pace.

I was able to return home this evening for a few hours to coach (with Gary Bussa) Marisa’s softball team.  She is really enjoying herself.  We are so proud of the effort and enthusiasm she shows on the field.  It has been great fun to coach all the girls.

We continue to be amazed by the care and support you have all shown.  Your prayers have been a blessing.  Thank you for being a part of our lives.  It's getting late, Michelle is asleep and I should get some rest, too.  Good night.  -Dave