Since our last email with the pic and announcement things have changed dramatically.
Braden:
1. Braden has a very rare heart problem called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. We have been told that less than 1% of kids are born with this. It is not genetic or anything else, just a horrible fluke.
2. In simple terms; the bottom left side of his heart is very, very small and utterly useless.
3. What this means: This means open heart surgery in the next week. Then another surgery within a 2 month window. Then another one around age 2. The hope is that with these surgeries his blood supply can be rerouted around his underdeveloped left heart chamber. There are large risks with these surgeries as you can imagine, but if all goes well he can live a normal life.
4. Where we stand now: Braden possibly has pnuemonia. If he does this could set back the timeframe when the first surgery could occur and create other complications. He is in good hands and is stable right now.
5. Timeline: If all goes well the first surgery could be in 5-7 days with a 3 -5 week recovery. Based on insurance coverage we may be transferred to Christ Hospital in Oak Lawn or Milwaukee Childrens. We are hoping to go to Milwaukee. We will keep you informed about this.
Things we need from you:
We understand that you want to help us and we thank you for your generosity. We, as parents, feel helpless and lost as to how to help Baby Braden get through this thing. What you can do is pray for our baby as he endures this long journey ahead of him. Please pray for our strength as parents as we join Braden on this journey.
As far as us being available we are taking things one day at a time.
We appreciate your care and concern the following are some things that will help us out:
- If you could please refrain from calling the hospital or our phones that would help us out. It is very difficult to keep up with the messages and voicemails.
- We really have nowhere to keep flowers or gifts here but thank you for the thought.
- Please be patient, when we know something we will email you.
....and us......we are doing our best
Love,
Rich and Steph
posted by The Petska Family @ 8/20/2006 03:23:00 PM
14 Comments:
You are in our thoughts and prayers "little buddy"..Mom and Dad, stay strong!! your little guy needs you more then ever..Much Love to all, The Heiss Family
P.S. Gramma Patsy, stay strong..can't wait to give you a big hug..Muah!!
Rich and Steph, we're passing word around so baby Brayden can have as many people praying for him as possible. You're in my every thought and prayer. If you need anything you know you can call me anytime.
Love and hugs....Carla
Marci just sent me this site. Found out in church yesterday the problems and support. My love to all of you. I have a vision of God taking Braden in his arms and wings of an angel wrapped around. His little face is sticking out on top of the wings, grinning. God is answering the prayers of many. Love and hugs, Judy Henricksen
You are in our hearts and prayers!
Ray, Traci, Rachel and Amy
Steph, Rich, Braden and your families,
You are in our thoughts. We are praying for you. Please let us know if you need anything. Stay strong.
Love, Jodi and Brian Ivanchenko
Rich, Steph, and Braden ~
We love you all and will pray for you often. Please call us for anything. We have faith in the three of you.
Lots of lots love and prayers,
Ray, Melissa, Justin and Jonah
You and Baby Braden are in my thoughts and prayers during this very trying time! Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to help.
Love,
Kelly Petersen
We will pray for Braden and both Steph and Rich tonight and every night after! If there is ANYTHING you need please let us know. I am very close to the hospital and can bring anything to you! I will send brave thoughts to all of you tonight! May God Bless all of You!
Love, Colleen, Sean and Jon Lesnjak
We will keep you in our thoughts & prayers. Stay positive!
My heart aches with you. God blessed Braden with the two of you to love him. Keep your faith. You are surrounded by love and prayers. LOVE, Gala
Steph, Rich & Baby Braden: You are in our thoughts & prayers. We are hugging you from afar. You need ANYTHING, please call. Braden is in God's loving hands!
luv ya! Auntie Chris & Uncle Steve
The Petskas,
Chris has been keeping me updated on the status of little Braden. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers today and every day. Lots of luck to you all.
Melissa Storm (Newton - RBCHS)
Uncle Crockett & Aunt Julie Say
Hi Steph, Rich & Braden
Our prays & thoughts are with you, wish we could be there to hug you both.
Say hi to my little sister,
Love Uncle Crockett & Aunt Julie
I am praying for you every second. You are all in God's hands now - keep up the faith! Love you . . .
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