Greetings friends and family,
We had a very lengthy but informative day at UCSF on Tuesday. "Donor Dave" was able to join us and learn more about his very important role in this project! Both he and Bob have completed all the requested lab tests by now, although Dave may have some to repeat. And of course the docs thought up yet another cardiology test for Bob, but it does not sound too invasive.
The most important part of the appointments was with the transplant nephrology doctor, Debra Adey, who ended up committing to being yet another advocate for getting the transplant approved by the selection committee. Bob's UC cardiologist Dr. Rame was able to join us for the appt also, and he contributed his usual energetic arguments for why the transplant is essential, and likely to be successful despite all the concerns about Bob's heart condition.
As a great side note, turns out that Dr. Adey's father was life-long friends with Bob Bondurant of racing fame, and spent many weekends in the press box at Riverside Raceway as a teen! We took that as a positive sign in the "small world" category.
Next steps:
Get the cardiology procedure scheduled and completed soon.
Bob has to increase his exercise to get in better shape for the operation and recovery( he will start doing his cardiac rehab class 3 times per week starting Monday, for starters)
Finish Dave's blood tests to everyone's satisfaction
Present Bob's case yet again before the transplant selection committee!
So we are still hoping for this to happen soon, without any hard guarantees from anyone. Bob is happily driving again with his much-improved eyesight and new glasses, which makes both of us happy.
Happy almost-spring to everyone. This seems like the right season for a miracle, and we will continue working in that direction!
Hopefully,
Cherie
