December 17th, Snowing and cold

It's my brother's birthday and I just got off the phone with him. It's nice to have such a wonderful brother. I strung a racket today with my new   I really like it! I even put up a website about my new stringer! I am hoping to actually play some tennis tonight, granted it's snowing, but I am thinking I'll take the Expedition out and I like driving in the snow!!! I got a call from one of my best friends and it was nice to hear from Paul. He's been with Nordstrom for 23 years! The new job is going well and I really like my new friends I work with and the company. I am now on some new medication for my cholesterol and having to take an additional medication for my high blood pressure at night.  I have to wait 2 months then get it re-checked. My son keeps bugging me about my chin and tummy and he thinks it's funny.. but I don't! :)

Happy Holidays!

Brian

Sunday... A great day!

It's a beautiful sunny day here in Everett, WA!  I am watching the Sea-hawks and the Redskins game and decided to write a bit. I have just finished publishing my 187 personal story on my website. You can read all the stories here.  You can also join the Aortic Dissection Forum and read stories as well as chat with other survivors. That link is found here.

I can't believe that Halloween is over and this week it's Thanksgiving already! Wow.. time is flying. Speaking of Halloween! My daughter was a candy corn princess and my son was a gangster. They always have so much fun trick or treating!

 We are having Thanksgiving at our house this year and I think there's going to be 16 people! Everyone brings something and we do the Turkey and drinks!

My tennis game is still in the toilet. I got my Prince Graphite 107's back and have been playing with them again, but just feel that my service return and serve are not that great! I am going to try the Mid size (93) and see how I like that. If not, I am eyeing either the Head Microgel Extreme Pro or Babolat Pure Storm Tour. My stringer should be there this week too!  You can see it here!

Have a great rest of the day!

Brian

Miracle Lady survives an AorticDissection

I got this alert from my Google notifications about a women who experienced and AD while giving birth to her child. It's a terrible outcome for the baby, but the mother survived and was able to keep going forward with her life.  The story is here and it's a great outcome for her. What's interesting is that they show a Type B dissection in the story, when it appears to actually be a type A, requiring emergency surgery. I actually agree with the doctor that there's few cases under the ages of 30, but... they are out there and I have documented them on my website as well. Those can be found here along with many other AD stories.

I feel so fortunate to be alive today thanks to Dr. James Brevig and the staff at Providence Everett General Hospital in Everett, WA. And, I am so thankful to the ER room for being able to catch it!

God Bless,

Brian Tinsley

My tennis game.. and stringing dilemma

Well, after playing with my Prince Oversize 107 rackets for 25 years, I have decided to switch.. Or did I? I ordered 3 new Head MicroGel Extreme Pro's and had leather grips put on them, but never gave them a chance as I was having issues with overheads and forehands. So, after selling my Prince's on ebay, I ordered 2 more Graphites, strung one, went to the wall, hit a few balls and realized that the HMP really were my new sticks. However, I had already sold them too! So, I had to ask the buyer to listen to my story and I gave him the funds back and have been watching my rackets travel to Arkansas and now are on the way back.

Next problem... I sold my stringer too! Then, I decided to get the new Top of the Line, LaserFibre Quantum. That's what I ordered last week and was told it would ship out this Friday, 11/7/08. However, that got shipped out yesterday and left my bank account in a negative situation. I contacted the LaserFibre folks and asked them what happened? I also asked for a refund of the shipping charges as it's the least that they can do for the screw up that they caused me!

Oh.. the game of tennis! :)

Brian

Back to work... Getting back into the swing of things!

Well, it's back to work for me.. finally, after being laid off on 5/2/2008, I landed my first day on the job with Global Crossing on 10/20/2008. I really like the company so far and the people are great! It's nice to be in a much smaller company than BIG BROTHER VERIZONBUSINESS. I am so happy to have a job at such a great place. The being out of the work realm was a bit tough to get back used to. I am still struggling a bit to try and stay focused. I am getting better and better each week. I also got my first paycheck and just in the nick of time!

I had my review of my Echo-Cardiogram that was done back in May/08 of this year. My doctor said that everything looked fine, still small leaking in the valves due to my "genetic" make up of a deformed bicuspid valve since birth. The nurse checked my BP and and it was 140/71. The my doctor checked it about 10 minutes later and it was 176/78. I told him that I was going to get my weight down from 212 to under 200lbs and that I would do it by Jan 1st, 2009. He said that I needed more BP meds and now I am going to be taking a pill at night. It sucks having high BP...it really does! I am on so many medications as it is, granted I take them about every 3 days on average, I need to get on the daily program - which I am going to do! I am also going to get my Excel weight charts and BP charts, put them on the bathroom walls and get focused about getting this BP thing down. We also discussed that I could go to 1 Echo per year and I told him about my CT/Angio's and how Dr. Liang thought going to MRI's would be less radiation for me. He seemed to agree. I also had a blood test for him to review and my hope is that my cholesterol is OK and I don't have to go on meds for that!

Take care!
Brian

What a Family means to me...

This is one of my favorite pictures with my kids. It's probably two/three years old, but I just love the picture and the smiles on every one's faces. We were on vacation and stayed at this place with a great outdoor pool. I just absolutely treasure these kids that the GOOD LORD has granted me. I am so deeply blessed to have such beautiful and wonderful kids. I just love them for all eternity!

 



This is another favorite of mine as well, this is at Lake Intiat in Eastern Washington, on the Columbia RIver. My brother/sister in law have a nice place in the Sun Cove development and we have a blast when we go over there in the summer time. My kids just love riding in their boat and going tubing and the parade. However, there' a bit older now and the parade is still fun for them, but they'd rather just relax and kick back!

 

 This is my brother's family and it's about 2 years ago on Christmas Eve and my parents house. I can not begin to tell you how thankful I am for my brother and his LOVING family. My brother was there for me, as well as my entire family when I was in the hospital. He was TRULY amazing and is a TRUE BLESSING from GOD! I can remember babysitting their oldest daughter, Kylie when she was just a baby!



 

 Here's me and the kids 2 years ago at Lake Intiat again enjoying ourselves and having a blast. My beautiful wife was taking the picture. It's so pretty to watch all the stars at night here!

 

 

 

 

 This is my brother and his wife at their new house, it's a beautiful house and it has a tremendous view of the mountains and water! They are wonderful!

Have a great day.... Remember your family!

Brian

I got the job! Going back to work soon....

Well, after being laid off since 5/2/2008, I received word today that my paper work is all done, my background checks are completed and now I am waiting for my official start date. I am excited to be finally getting back in the working world. And.. not a minute too soon! My severance is just about gone and my UE is about to run out.

My back is still hurting since last Thursday's tennis match. Since then, I have had to go on Prednisone to help the swelling and started doing a bunch of new lower back stretches. I am also committed to making the racket switch to the Head Microgel Extreme Pro and put my Prince Graphites on ebay for someone else to enjoy. I can not look back and need to believe not only in myself, but my game and new conditioning efforts.

I am so thankful to JESUS CHRIST for allowing me this new job opportunity.

God Bless!

Brian

I got the job! Persistence is the "key"!

Well, I got the call today and the offer letter is to be overnighted to me and arrive tomorrow. I am planned to start sometime around the 7th/8th of October for Global Crossing. I am so excited and just in the nick of time! I am out of my severance funds and my unemployment benefits are due to run out as well. God works in mysterious ways! I am so thankful that I am going back to work and for a great bunch of folks.

There's a lot to be said about being persistence and taking those small steps (many) in trying to get where you want to go. In the same manner, I have been working via YouTube on my decentization process about my flying. I am really fealing confident about the strides I am making here. Thanks to Dr. Fear, I am on the right track to victory.

The kids are both in socceer and it's so much fun to be able to watch them play. It's one of my favorite times of the year as I just love to watch them...grow! I don't know what hit me, but I decided I could switch tennis rackets after 25 years and that didn't work out - what was I thinking? Anyway, I am glad to be back playing with my Prince OS Graphites and will be working on my fitness to help my game get better.

I received a call from a wife of an aortic dissectiion survivor today. It sounds like he had a very similar experience to my surgery. Apparently, he's struggling and it was nice to speak with her and tell her that there is "hope" and that we can get her and her husband some expert help. This is what makes me happy is when I can give something back to others and help them.

Well, I am getting up at 4:50am to head to the club for 5:30am doubles tomorrow and playing singles tomorrow night at 8pm. Full day of tennis!

Best!

Brian

9/21/2008-Sunday

It's been a few weeks since my last post. I have been busy with kids school, soccer and playing tennis. Also, I have been praying for a job to finally come to fruition. I have been told that I have the job at Global Crossing  and I am very excited abut the opportunity. However, it's taking them some time to get me the actual offer letter. I am going to meet with them this Wednesday and this Monday, I am supposed to hear from another possible opportunity with ATT Wireless. I had originally applied with them, but did not get the position. I was called out of the blue a week ago about another position and interviewed with them. They are going to make their decision on Monday evening.

In the meantime, I am working on my flying issue. I discovered (what I believe is my cure) a book called "Freedom From Fear: Overcoming Anxiety, Phobias and Panic" 
Howard Liebgold; Paperback; $11.21. I stumbled across the book trying to help my daughter with some issues about school. I have gotten to know Dr. Liebgold via email and he's a super nice person. He struggled with phobia's for 31 years! And, he's a medical doctor! He's specializing in helping others and I would HIGHLY recommend him! One of the most helpful things, is the desensitization process. The definition is:  To make emotionally insensitive or unresponsive, as by long exposure or repeated shocks. Or in other words to constantly expose yourself to the things that give you the fear/phobia/anxiety because the ONLY way to deal with fear is THROUGH IT! The desensitization process is done on a hierarchical format. Meaning, you give your phobia/anxiety levels on a scale. I can honestly tell you that I have tried everything and this is the FIRST person who I believe really understands what is going on. He should, he's been through it!

I hope to know this week about my job situation and hopefully will get the offer letter this month from Global Crossing so I can join them and get my life back on track with a great company.

Cheers!

Brian

Monday... A new fresh week... possibilities are endless!

I love this beautiful picture of a ladybug. She's just relaxing there on her leaf and doesn't have any cares or worries. It seems to parallel our lives sometimes. We'd do wonders to emulate the ladybugs characteristics of calmness in our everyday lives. With school having just started - a week under our belts, things are beggining to settle down.  My offer letter from my new employer is scheduled to arrive this week and I can not wait to get back to working again. There is life after MCI/VerizonBusiness - a better life with endless opportunities and destinations! Like this ladybug, if she's not content with where she happens to have landed, she can choose to move to a different leave and start again.  We can do the same thing in our daily lives. As an aortic dissection survivor, once you have literally come back from the dead and now see the world through a new lens, it's amazing the real beauty that you can find. Why did it take a near death experience to ignite the true pleasure that life has to offer each and every one of this. Do you think Jesus Christ put on this earth to live in misery? Do you think we were put on this earth to have a "free ride" ?  I don't believe so, each day is a mini life in itself and we need to break it down that way. Take each day one step, one breath, one praise at a time.  After surviving an aortic dissection,  you begin to really realize that you are given a certain number of days on this earth that GOD will allow you to live here. Each day is like a new flower spreading it's leaves and growing a bit, and it eventually becomes a beautiful piece of art work. It's being able to see the beauty in each day. Everyday that we have on this earth is a chance to make sure that we tell our loved ones... hey... I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! And to make sure that they know you are there for them unconditionally.

I know that I am personally so grateful to my LORD AND SAVIOR- JESUS CHRIST for everything that he's given me. I most of all appreciate his dying on the cross and shedding his blood for me. He died for you and he died for me. It's a free gift and it's something that EVERYONE should be thankful for!

May JESUS CHRIST come into your heart and fill you with his love, peace and joy!

Brian

Thanks to GOD and his son Jesus Christ for their continued miracles!

I found this picture after reading and article today about a surgeon who had performed a three heart valve surgery  on a patient. The patient was only 44 years of age. After reading the article, I researched the surgeon, Dr. David Jayakar, MD and found his website. I really and truly believe that these surgeons, who literally have the ability with the help of Jesus Christ at their side to determine our fate as to a chance to continue on living or literally, having Jesus there to say.... "It's time for he/she to come home" and I believe beyond a shadow of a doubt, that when Dr. James Brevig was doing my surgery, Jesus was there helping him along with all the prayer requests coming in asking him to guide the surgeons hand in the delicate surgery.  I truly believe that our surgeons are some of the best people we have on this earth.

I received a call this Sunday morning from a man, speaking of miracles, who was giving a toast at his families Thanksgiving dinner. It was then, while standing a sharp stabbing pain hit him like a mac truck and he was sent to the hospital. He just happened to live 5 minutes from Columbia University Hospital. And, the really big miracle was that Dr. Allen Stewart just happened to be there that Thanksgiving evening checking on a patient when this gentlemen of 70+ arrived. Dr. Stewart replaced his valve with a "calf" valve and his entire aorta with a dacron tube. All this without any kidney or other issues. That's a miracle... A true miracle in which Dr. Stewart's hands worked through Jesus Christ to keep this man alive and bring him through the surgery to be able to say those perhaps forgotten, "I love you's" or items her had perhaps neglected to have done.. but now was giving a new appreciation for life.

I am so thankful for my life, my family, my friend and hopefully my new job (this Wednesday is my final interview) and really am so blessed.  Many people don't make it. Many people are in the right place and the right time.. Or is it that Jesus is there with them and the surgeons? I think it's your faith and belief that your life is not controlled by you, and that the GOOD LORD is your ONLY choice as to when you will see him face to face or you will be allowed to continue to live a few more years on the earth until you are called home. These surgeons, and although extremely well trained, need that helping hand to guide them and so do you!

Brian

August 22nd, 2008 - My 5 year birthday since Aortic Dissection

Well, today is my 5 year anniversary or birthday since my aortic dissection back on 8/22/2008. I remember it as if it were just yesterday. I had started out the day still trying to negotiate this "semi-wrecked" motorcycle and how much I was going to pay for this site unseen bike from my customer who happened to work at Microsoft. Then, I was also trying to line up a truck to pick it up with as well. I had planned to use my other friend at Microsoft (my former customer) truck. On top of that, I was also going to play tennis that next morning at 0700am as well. I was also playing tennis on 8/22/2003 (Friday - most AD's happen on a this day!) at 4:00pm with my usual buddy Jack. In the meantime, I had went to get some teriyaki lunch (high in sodium) and I know my blood pressure was high as this motorcycle negotiation was consuming my day. Not to mention, I was late for my 4pm tennis match and realized I had forgot my shoes, so I had to return home and grab them and hustle back. I stepped out on the court, played about 2 games and "wham"  that's when my life changed forever. That's when you realize that you are not immortal and that the GOOD LORD has a plan for your life and can take you out when he's ready for you.  I remember that GOD had to be looking over me as my survival was a miracle. My first miracle was that I did not take my partner's advice and have him drive me to the ER department at 5pm on a Friday afternoon in rush hour traffic. Not to mention, in and AD situation like mine, (Type A), you don't have time on your side. Had I gone that route, I could have been held up in the ER check in process and waiting in the lobby for all I know. Furthermore, when you ride with the paramedics, they get you through traffic quicker and get you right into a room - at least that's what happened to me. My second major miracle I would find out 3 years later was that in this same ER department, and the same ER doctor would see a man 54 years of age come through with similar symptoms exactly 40 days before I arrived there and get "miss-diagnosed" for an anxiety attack and essentially die in the ER room from an Type A aortic dissection. They (ER Department) flat out missed the diagnosis. Did they have that heavy on their minds when I arrived? I  was 40 years old and in pretty darn good shape and healthy. I heard the 54 year old man was in good shape as well. What I would later find out is that apparently the last thing that they did was a blood test (possibly a d-dimer) that came back high for a pulmonary imbolism and that's when I remember being shot down this tube -completely inside it and they were taking pictures of my heart. I just wanted out of there! Next thing, a tall man, my surgeon, Dr. James Brevig would be telling me that I had a 50/50 chance of living due to my aortic dissection and needed surgery right away.

This day is very special to me as it reminds me just how lucky and thankful I am to be alive. It's been 5 years today and that in and of itself is another major hurdle.  No matter how things might look, and in my case, being laid off on 5/2/2008 - just 6 days short of 20 years, nothing is too bad that can not be overcome with the "FAITH IN GOD" that he's got you in the palm of his right hand and is your savior. I am absolutely living proof that miracles DO happen.

Speaking of miracles.. I am also about (I believe) to land a new job, I just have one more interview to do next Wednesday and I should get it. How I found out about the opportunity was a fluke, but it turned out to be GOD'S way of using his power to find me the job that he wants me in.

Have a great day! Remember.. you have a lot to be thankful for! Don't forget it!

Brian

Having Faith... It's the ONLY way!

 Faith is being sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see. Hebrews 11:1. It's amazing what Faith can do for you and how we don't even know how much it goes on in our daily lives.  As many of you know, I was laid off on 5/2/2008 and have been looking for a job since 5/3/2008. Up until a few days ago, I was at my wits end and really thinking that I was going to get this job with TWTelecom.com and was told that I was one of the final candidates. I was also told I would hear by Monday of last week that the decision would be made. As of 8/17/2008, I still have not been told.  About a week ago, I got an email from a friend of my wife who had sent her something about things women at 45 years of age should not be doing. Anyway, I had my wife send me the email and I saw on the email header a name of a gal that my wife had played on a soccer team with a few years ago. I had actually remember meeting her and speaking with her as we both had worked on the same account, Microsoft. Well, when I got the email from my wife, I decided to email this gal and tell her what happened to me and ask her to send my resume around. On Saturday, the 16th of August, while out on the boat (my sister in laws) on Lake Entiact, I got a call froma recruiter about an opening for their Seattle market.  I would have never heard about this opportunity had I not sent this gal an email about asking for help and hoping (faith) that something might become of it. It turns out that after speaking with the recruiter, they think I am perfect for the job and I have one more interview to go! I am supposed to hear from the hiring manager on Monday.

I have been watching the Olympics and they have really been exciting. We had a great few days over in Lake Chelan as well. It was 103 the last day we were there. They kids had fun! We floated down part of the Wenatchee river as well one day - that was super fun! The kids love intertubing at their aunt and uncle's house and seeing their cousin's Mathew and Adam.

I have also re-launched my website, http://www.fastman.com and I am back in business again!

 

**Oh yah... Listen to this, it's amazing!

Take care!

Brian

A Simple painless test could save your life

I got this news article today titled, "Baby boomers may face a silent killer" and watched the video. This is a great message again to the general public to get an "ultrasound" test done.

Not only should you check for an AAA, you also should request an "echo cardiogram" or a "stress echo" as it's another very simple test that can reveal a possible issue with your heart and/or ascending aorta.

This stat alone is enough for everyone to get it done quickly!

 Dr. Back says AAA is the 13th leading cause of death. Nine out of 10 patients who have AAA that ruptures will die. However, it may not be deadly if it's caught early.

 

My daughter had a photo shoot the other day, check this out! My neighbor is a great photographer if you are anywhere in the Seattle area, I'd recommend him. He's on my blog roll.

Still hoping to hear something today about the TWTelecom.com opportunity. I have done everything I can and it's in their hands and GOD's.

Have a great day!

Brian

The "Big Day" is tomorrow

I am hoping tomorrow that I find out if I am going to be able to get my life back on track and start working again. Since being laid off on 5/2/2008, I have been kind of "off track" in that I am feeling like I have no real purpose in life without being able to work and feel like I got something accomplished. Don't get me wrong... I love being home with my family during this summer, but... after searching and searching, I am at the cusp of finally getting the job I really want - a job that a friend told me about out of the blue. 

Tomorrow at 0700am in downtown Seattle I have my interview with the regional vice-president of the company for the West Coast. I am hoping that it goes well and it should as I've beenthrough a few of them lately and feel more confident after each one. I was lucky enough to have a friend on the "inside" help me with a few tips and I am feeling really best prepared and ready to sell myself and my skill set as to why I am the best candidate for the job.

I went for a long walk yesterday (played tennis too!) and today as well for over an hour and my legs are feeling better. This Friday will be two weeks since my varicose vein surgery. I am thinking that they are going to need to do something to my left leg since they were only able to get like 8 inches of my greater saphenous vein.

More to come...

Brian

Update on News Story about Gene found for detecting Acute Aortic Dissection

I published this post yesterday about a press release that I received about a possible detection of a genetic link to diagnosing an "acute aortic dissection" and after further review and checking around with some of my very well known experts - I am not so sure this isn't just a bunch of BS!  This has been underway here in the US for a few years and led by one of the top genetics's Dianna M. Milewicz, M.D., Ph.D.

Dianna and her team at the Department of Internal Medicine,Division of Medical Genetics,The University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston,  have been working on this for quite some time and they published this article -Life-threatening gene defect located by UT-Houston researchers  back in November 11th, 2007.

I also tried to email this person salah.mohamed@herzchir.muluebeck.de) and it didn't work. I also looked up the hospital and apparently he's not even known there.

So, it appears that this Mr. Salah Mohamed's findings are really nothing new and perhaps he himself is a mystery as well.

I am sticking with Dianna's research. By the way, you can actually sign up for the genetic testing here and get the testing done. I had this information already posted on my site, http://www.aorticdissection.com the day that this press release came out from Dianna's team back in November of 2007.

**UPDATE** This was just released today  with a bit more "meat" to the original publication. And somecomments from a recognized aortic expert.

Brian Tinsley

Good News on Aortic Dissection Front

Today, there's was a publication released  by Salah A. Mohamed, from the Department of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Schleswig-Holstein released about the Genetic correlation linked to the Acute Aortic Dissection disease.  This is some really positive news and even if it prevents just one death , it's worth the research. However, after reading this article, the benefits could be enormous! A simple blood test that could save your life! I wrote Salah A. Mohamed an email today asking him for further information on what the name of the blood test will be called? Or how to actually go about ordering it. I will keep you posted just as soon as I hear something.

Brian

Keeping the Faith

It seems that sometimes we can choose to look at life as being unfair - as if we'd been dealt a bad deck of cards. I can see how some people might choose to see this way for perhaps a day or two. But, is it really worthliving your entire life with the mindset that "Life is not fair?"  Who said that life isn't fair?  Why is it that we have a tendency (when things are going right) to blame others? Feel that GOD has let us down? That other people seem to get the bigger "carrots" in life and we're left with just the left overs?  The real way out of that thinking is to go straight to your knees and pray for forgiveness. UNTIL, you can forgive, you simply CAN NOT beat this viciouscircle. GOD is a GOD of forgiveness and wants the best for you in life. Being content with life is a double edged sword. If you find yourself on "auto-pilot" you don't really get to learn and grow from what GOD is trying to show you. In my case, as I approach my 3rd month of having no job, I am at the "cusp" of finally getting hired again.  I have three opportunities that hopefully are going to present offers either this week or Monday the 4thof August, I am supposed to hear about my opportunity with TWTelecom.com that I REALLY am hoping I get.

In life, we are certainly going to have ours "ups and downs" and it's just a matter of  being able to literally bounce back up after facing a set back. As this picture depicts, you will get knocked down, but... you can bounce backand even go higher that you previously thought you could go with GOD's help and the FAITH knowing that he's got you in the palm of his right hand.  I listened to a great CD yesterday and as much as I had tried to get some of those folks that were responsible for my job loss, I had not really forgiven them 100%. Yesterday, I prayed for them and forgave them. It's the ONLY way to move forward - YOU must forgive to be able to move forward.

I know that GOD is a GOD of LOVE, PEACE, JOY and HAPPINESS. It's something that we all should be very thankful for and appreciate what we have.  Quit comparing yourself to others whom you might consider more fortunate than you based on "material" objects, be THANKFUL for your creation. GOD made you in his image and you are special to him and he loves you dearly. Be thankful!

Brian

The Waiting is the hardest part

It's a bit of sad day around the house as I had to take our cat of 17 years into the vet today. The vet said that her "skin cancer" was too far gone and the humane thing to do was put her to sleep. She was a great cat and the entire family will miss her.

I just got done listing to Tom Petty's song, The Waiting and it's really so true.. the waiting is the hardest part - especially when it's waiting to hear if you are going to get the job you've applied for.  I have literally done all that I can and it's going to happen this week - I can just feel it.  GOD is really testing my patience and I MUST have the faith and belief and see it in my minds eye - this WILL happen for me!

My legs are doing better, today I was able to take off the "ace bandages" and now only have to wear the stockings until be time. It appears that my mother needs to have her one leg looked into - this is a hereditary disease.

Not sure if I am going to be able to play any tennis this week and might play some doubles on Saturday am for the first time since the surgery.

Best!

Brian

The day after my Venus Closure Procedure

It's Saturday am about 0800 and I would usually be at the tennis club playing my 0700-0830am doubles which I have been playing for the last 10+ years!  However, I decided to move forward with my venus closure procedure. My legs are doing pretty good, I am wishing that I didn't have to wear the ace bandages, the stockings are OK, it's just that these bandages, one on my left leg and one on my right thigh and calf are kind of tight! Oh well, I will be glad in the long run that I finally got the courage to do this and can walk into Starbucks without thinking everyone is looking at my legs. My left leg was the worst of the two.

I was searching Google this morning and came across what I consider one (if not the most) comprehenisve articles on what exactly is an "aortic dissection" and I believe everyone should read  this.



This picture shows a daron tube being sewn into the arotic wall. There's also some glue that they use as well. Thanks again to Dr. Debakey! I still to this day (almost 5 years later) can not believe that I was able to survive. Especially against all the odds of having an ascending aortic dissection to begin with. You LITERALLY have to have GOD on your side and the amount of resources that have to come together to pull this surgery off - it's a monumental effort. In fact, I was reading today, that some surgeon's (in particular areas) are having a blood shortage (donors) and according to the article have to sometimes contemplate if they can do a surgery based on the amount of blood that will be required for the surgery. I have no idea how much blood it took for my operation, but I imagine a ton. You never stop and really think of those nice people that donate their blood - it's such a blessing for that critical piece of the surgery!

Here's some very interesting statistics:

Aortic dissection is the most frequently diagnosed lethal condition of the aorta and occurs nearly three times as frequently as does rupture of abdominal aortic aneurysm in the United States.
Hypertension is the mechanical force most often associated with dissection and is found in greater than 75% of cases
As many as 40% of patients suffering acute aortic dissection die immediately
As many as 30% of patients ultimately diagnosed with acute dissection are first thought to have another diagnosis.
Fifty percent of patients suffering acute type A aortic dissection are dead within 48 hours.16 A conventional wisdom has evolved that acute type A dissection carries a "1% per hour" mortality. Newer data, however, reveal a different prognosis such that medical management may be considered in certain high-risk groups. In one such study, type A dissection was managed medically in 28% of patients for various reasons with a 58% in-hospital mortality.17 Regardless, this relatively high mortality demonstrates that patients surviving acute type A dissection must be quickly and aggressively diagnosed and managed

As you can see... I am a very lucky and thankful person to have been given a second chance at life. Not all of us will get that second chance at life - make sure your doing the things now that you might probably would be doing if you had to do it all over again. Don't rely on a second chance - you might not get it. Be thankful for each day, each breath, each moment - give thanks!
Brian

Where there is HOPE there are POSSIBILITIES!

I found this on Google today. I thought it was perfect as I have really been enjoying my blog here. Not only am I hoping to help as many people as I possibly can learn more about diseases of the aorta, but to offer them hope - that they CAN keep going. Once you realize that you are a child of GOD, you also know that you are here on this earth to help people less fortunate than you.. Heck.. anybody for that matter. It's just an "innate" genetic code that I think I have where I want to give back as much as I can as I was so blessed to have been given my life back. Had I been 40 days earlier, I might not have made it.

 

 

 

Something occurred to me today about really trusting Jesus Christ as my LORD and savior. The real issue is that when you get into the "SELF" mode you are essentially walking as if you are one with your own self. As if you are heading out in the sand with no direction as the picture illustrates. You are choosing to let the "self" try to run your life and putting the GOOD LORD on the back burner while you try to do everything yourself.  There's absolutely no way to really win the race with this mentality. Sure... there might be some small victories, but they are short-lived and empty. You MUST deny the self and let the GOOD LORD run your ship. Let him be the captain of the ship and guide you to places you have never been. These pictures below also bring the point that Jesus said that he will carry us in the palm of his right hand. I believe this to literally mean that it's HIS foot prints that we see in the sand and it's relying on him to take us into different directions - directions we'd never even dreamed or thought of (lack of courage?).. Could Jesus be wanting to bring you out to sea? Literally to an area you'd never thought possible? He could be with me! Or.. did you know if you just trusted him, he'd show you the light!

 

I can do ALL things through CHRIST who strengthens me!

Brian

Varicose Vein Procedure.. I did it!

Ok... I did it! I faced my fear of the Varicose Vein procedure today and even got both legs done at the same time!  Believe me, I was looking around that "imaginary corner" finding/thinking of all the "what if's" -but, I decided (on the final table) that I could do it. I had visions of pulling out of it, but stayed focused on my belief in GOD and pushed through the fear. My legs are still a bit numb and I just got back from a walk. My right calf is hurting, however, I am 99.999% sure it'd due to the 2 ace bandages and the one compression stocking on it. My right iliac artery to begin with was "narrowed" due to my false lumen squishing it as a result of my aortic dissection.

If you are anywhere in the state of Washington and need a vein procedure done, I would HIGHLY recommend Dr. Strup at the Puget Sound Vein Center  in Monroe Washington. They were fabulous! They are a very well trained team and Dr. Strup is phenomenal! Apparently, he's done more of the Venus Closure techniques that anyone on the West Coast.

I still see nothing in my gmail inbox about whether or not I am going to get offered either one of the two jobs that I am trying for. I know that these companies are busy.. but.. I need to work! If I found out next week about the new job, I imagine that it will take at least another week or two till I get on. With that news, I can plan for a small vacation hopefully with the family for a few days and look forward to starting a new career somewhere.

I will be back in touch for more updates about my vein procedure and how things are going.

Brian

Stressing over what?

I am feeling the stress of the job situation, surgery tomorrow and just the fact that we've not taken a summer vacation. I am feeling guilty that I have let the family down and especially not being able to take a vacation due to my lack of work.

The strange thing is that between the job search, surgery, money situation and kids home for the summer, it's all about taking things in stride. I could let my life appear to be in a "knot" like never before... Or I can try to take things into perspective here and deal with them as they come up. While searching for this "knot" picture, I found a great article, "The Role of Stress in just about Everything," and it's a great read.

“I can’t express anger. I grow a tumor instead.”
—Woody Allen

I almost wanted (having a bit of an anger flashback) to contact those folks at Microsoft who were responsible for my getting laid off and give them a piece of my mind. But.. I decided I didn't want to waste my time. They'll get what's coming to them and their own incompetencies. It's ironic to think that these "clowns" are actually still employed there. 

OK.. Onto more positive stuff... Like the weather! I am going to the Aquasox Game tomorrow night to watch and hear my daughter's friend sing the National Anthem before the game. This should be fun!

Brian

Some Tennis , Fear, and an interview in afternoon

I played my usual Thursday am singles with Dr. George this morning. I lost the first set 7-5 and it was 4-4 in the 2nd when we ran out of the court time. It's amazing how your mind can wonder all over the place while in the middle of a competitive singles match. I noticed that I was feeling a bit depressed for some reason. I didn't play that bad and also was noticing the "fear" feeling of actually flying soon and having to face the "winning" of the match. I thought to myself, I am so sick and tired of fear of this that and the other running/ruining my life - I must continue to pray for strength and courage along with faith to see the "big picture" and that GOD is in control of my life. Tomorrow is my vein surgery and I've been trying to not let that creep into my psyche and take hold and get me going on some tangent that I can't do it. I AM going to get this done and face the procedure head on.  Like my dad said to me a while back, "son, no matter where you are, when GOD calls you home, it's time to come home," and that's so TRUE. 

 No Worries

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”

~ Philippians 4:6-7

I think that this verse is the best one for me and to live by it each day and pray for FAITH.

I have an interview at 1pm today in Tukwila WA. It's a great opportunity with a great company. I hope that it goeswell. The interview process is something very new for me and it's taken me some time to get the hang of it. My main goal today is to exude confidence in not only myself, but my 20 years of experience that I can bring to this position and company. Knowledge and experience coupled with a "win/win" attitude is my goal.

Best!
Brian

Feeling Stuck? Getting Past Impasse

I have this book , Getting Unstuck: How Dead Ends Become New Paths, by Timothy Butler. In this book, it talks about the "inner critic" or it even goes as far as calling it Satan.

In particular, the inner critic becomes louder and more powerful during this second phase. The inner critic is that internal naysayer that Freud called the superego; but it wasn't a new concept, it's been around as long as humanity has. In Getting Unstuck I discuss some strategies for dealing with the inner critic. This picture shows a figure and having to make a choice on which path to take. That's what it's about. A new path out of the valley of the impasse. You MUST take it!

It's at this moment of impasse that we really begin to see what we are made of. It's a time to get a new perspective - out out of body experience if you will. A chance to look back at what you have or haven't done to this point and a chance to change the course of where you will end up. This is me now... Right now.. I am in the valley and trying to find my way out and as I climb the mountain to get out, just trying to keep my eyes on the "goal" of getting out and seeing the new me at the top and where I can go with GOD's direction. At this time in my life after working the prior 20 years and now finding it a bit more difficult to find another job, I am hoping that by reaching deep down into the "soul" of my being, that my new career path has a genuine purpose for me. I don't want to just go to work - I want to make an impact, a positive one.

Reality Check-Unemployment meeting today

Well, I had my official meeting today at the Unemployment office. I am assuming that this is a natural course that happens along the way of getting UE checks. I am about half way through my 26 weeks of UE and had a mandatory meeting today. They basically verify that you are doing at least 3 job searches a week - I am at about 20 and that you know about some of their resources. What I did learn today was a website, Indeed.com  that is a great site to search for jobs.

I think that I am beginning to really feel like I am on the "cusp" of finally getting hired.  However, part of me is literally feeling like I am going loony toons or better yet crazy from not being able to have landed a job yet. I have tried and tried, but for some reason, just haven't landed a home run yet.  I consider myself very talented and today seeing some of those people trying to work on their resumes and searching - I really feel for them. A lot of those folks don't even have a computer of their own to work on. I am very fortunate to actually be in the situation with the UE and the severance package I got. Don't get me wrong, it's still the pits getting these constant "no thanks" messages. But... If you want to succeed in life.. double your failure rate! I WILL find a job soon!

Oh... I managed to get a late entry into the WA State Open Tennis Tourney. I am hoping that I will be ready to play as my surgery is this Friday, the 25th of July and I am thinking that I might actually get both legs done instead of just my left leg.

Thanks,
Brian

Great Article on Aortic Dissection "Beating A Sudden Killer"

I was contacted a few months back about a young man working on his doctorate degree. He was specializing in the aortic dissection field. He started this website, IradOnLine.org  and has done a great job on the site. I highly recommend it. I was actually out there myself today and came across an article by Dr. John A. Elefteriades. It was titled, "Beating A Sudden Killer" and I believe it's a very well written article that everyone should read.  One of the "key" things that weight lifters need to be careful of is heavy lifting when they have the presence of any enlarge aorta due to aneurysm growing inside of them. The intense pressure put on from heavy lifting is just speeding up the process for that aneurysm to blow up or dissect. Both of these conditions are very fatal and should be treated immediately. However, how do you know if you are that weight lifter and that you might have that "something" growing inside of your aorta?  Do you have a history of aneurysms in your family? Do you have a history of aortic dissections? Do you have high blood pressure? All of these questions could help you to determine if you are at risk and should perhaps lay off the "heavy lifting" as it could potentially kill you.  According to this article, only 5% of these aneurysms/dissections are from Marfan's patients.

I highly recommend reading this article and educating yourself and family about these conditions.

Dr. John A. Elefteriades, M.D., F.A.C.S. can be seen at the Yale School of Surgery. This is also one of the best places to get aortic care.

Thanks,

Brian

Olivia's 13th Birthday..I love her so much!

It turned out to be a beautiful day. A day for a celebration and gathering of the entire family for my daughter's 13th birthday celebration. The cake was heavenly! Thank GOD for Costco!

Wow.. I am birthday partied out! We have the entire family over for my daughter's birthday celebration today. She and her mom just left for the mall to see a movie.It's been a constant birthday celebration since the 13th of July! Oh well.. my daughter is worth it.

I am hoping that tomorrow's call with RedKnee (phone interview) goes well. I have to wait a week tohear about my other possibility with TW Telecom and I sure hope that they call! The hiring manager is on vacation and I have to wait to hear from him when he returns. I have been playing it in my mind just what a 40 hour work week is going to be like again. It's been a long time since I've had to do one. However, I sure want to get back to a "routine" and get back on to feeling good about doing a good days work. At least this job won't require a "panel" interview! I also am supposed to speak with Vodafone this week as well.

I am waiting for my new shoes to arrive and strings. I tried the NRG2 (16) with the SPPP Plasma 17 gauge and it just didn't feel like. The GOSEN OG Sheep (16) synthetic gut is WAY easier to control for me and I just have gotten so used to it... I can't change!

Time for some TV!

Brian

Famous Soccer Player Dies of AD (Slobo Ilijevski)

I got my AD news today and read this article. Apparently, this "tremendously" talented soccer player died in Bellingham, WA - just an hour away from me. Slobo Ilijevski  died of an aortic dissection and was taken to the near by hospital to try and save him. Unfortunately, it was GOD'S time to call him home. I don't know this guy from Adam, but I do know that he seem to be in excellent shape and was quite and athlete - and pretty young. This is a tragedy for the family and soccer community. The other major "red light" here should be to take note that if you have a history of Aortic Dissections or Aortic Aneuersym - get yourself checked out. You can run 10 miles a day, eat all the vege's and fiber till you can't see straight... but that doesn't mean that there couldn't be an enlarged aorta growing inside your body.

I figure I got about 1.5 hours sleep last night. I had to get up at 6:00am for my doubles at 7-8:30am. My daughter's 13th birthday party was last night. She had 8 of her friends sleep over and they talked to the early morning hours. I kept tossing and turning as I could hear them and my pizza dinner wasn't sitting too well.  They rented a limo and went to the mall for a fashion thing.

I spent a bit of time yesterday and finally finished today my contrustion project - final section of my "paver" walkway. My hands are killing me from the cement mix and they are so dry that they fell like I need some lotion! Now, I have the entire side of my house, from the side walk all the way back to the back patio done. 

 

We are having the family get together tomorrow for my daughter's 13th birthday and that should be fun. I haven't seen my folks in a whie and my brother either.  We'll fire up the bbq and crack open a few beers and chat.

Wow.. I am super tired, suddenly the "lack of sleep" and my aching back from playing tennis 3 hours on Thursday, yesterday 1.5 and today 1.5, coupled with the paving project - I'm toast!

Hoping that my new job prospect still is working it's way through and that I get a call the last week of July (my original planned date) to notify me that I got the job!

Good day!

Brian

Aortic Dissection vs Aortic Aneursym

I often times get asked this question about what the difference are between the two of these conditions. So, while working on my website today, I came across a pretty simple definition of both:

Aortic dissection refers to tear on the wall of the large vessel coming out of the heart, called the aorta.  This tear causes blood to flow outside the normal area.  Deterioration of the aorta's inner lining is most often seen in patients with hypertension, a congenital disorder, or those who have suffered blunt trauma (such as a car accident).   It is very important to diagnose and treat this condition quickly.   A number of tests are performed to determine the nature of the aorta's pathology, and we are pleased to be able to preserve the non-diseased aortic valves while repairing the diseased areas in most instances.

An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal bulge in the wall of the aorta.  Although an aneurysm can develop anywhere along your aorta, it frequently occurs in the section running through your chest.  Although most aneurysms are small, grow slowly and do not rupture, approximately 15,000 Americans die of a ruptured aortic aneurysm each year.  Most patients learn they have an aortic aneurysm during an exam unrelated to cardiac health.  Depending on the size and location of the aneurysm, it may be best to simply monitor your condition.  If surgical intervention is indicated, the specific procedure will be determined by the cause of the aneurysm and its location.

What if you have an enlarged aorta right now? What do you do about it? I just found a great site, that explains a ton of information.

When is surgery indicated? 

Once a thoracic aneurysm is diagnosed, routine, scheduled follow-up is necessary by an aortic specialist. Aneurysm size needs to be followed closely and surgery is warranted if there is rapid growth over a short period of time or if a critical size is reached. Follow-up typically includes CT scans or MRI's every 6-12 months. 

The ascending aorta grows at a rate of 0.10 cm per year and the descending aorta at a rate of 0.20 cm per year. Should an aneurysm increase in size by 0.4cm in any one year then surgery should be performed.

Decisions regarding surgery can be made if the risk of death, dissection or rupture is known for any particular aneurysm size. This risk can then be compared to the risk of surgery. At St. Luke's-Roosevelt Aneurysm Center the operative mortality of ascending aortic aneurysm surgery is 2.3%. The mortality for aortic arch surgery increases to 5-8% and the mortality for descending thoracic aneurysm surgery is 5.5%. Below is listed the yearly risk of complications based on aortic aneurysm size.

 

			Aortic size
Yearly risk	> 3.5cm	>4.0cm	>5.0 cm	> 6.0cm
Rupture	0.0%	0.3%	1.7%	3.6%
Dissection	2.2%	1.5%	2.5%	3.7%
Death	5.9%	4.6%	4.8%	10.8%
Any of the above	7.2%	5.3%	6.5%	14.1%

 

Given these statistics it is recommended that asymptomatic ascending aortic aneurysms be resected at a size of 5.0-5.5 cm.  If severe aortic insufficiency is present in the setting of a bicuspid valve, the ascending aorta should be resected when it is 4.5 cm in diameter. Descending thoracic and aortic arch aneurysms typically are resected when they exceed 6.0 cm in diameter. A patient with Marfan's syndrome typically warrants earlier intervention.  Symptomatic aneurysms should be resected regardless of size.    

If you need expert help, I have many great surgical references of the top experts in the aortic surgery field. I would be more than happy to help!

Best!

Brian

The big phone interview today

Well, today is my big phone interview and perhaps my biggest chance so far to land a job since being laid off from VerizonBusiness on 5/2/2008. My (6 days short of 20 years) career is over and new horizons are calling my name. Granted, this hasn't been easy to land a job yet, I am still optimistic about this great chance - a chance that one of my old friends informed me of. This goes back to my old "networking" blog and how it's so imperative to keep a good contact list of folks that can help you down the road. I also happen to know another person at this company who is apparently way up the food chain and I am hoping to name drop his name as well as an "internal" reference as well.

I played 3 hours of singles tennis this morning, I was thinking I'd play doubles for 1.5 hours then my singles. However, the doubles groups didn't know I was playing with them, so I ended up hitting a few sets with a guy name Doug. Then, on to my usual Thursday am match with Dr. George. I tried mixing new "cross" strings (NRG2 16) and I just don't like the feel. So, it's back to the basics and good old Gosen OG Sheep Micro 16 gauge for my crosses.

My son had a sleep over with his cousins last night and they are going to Game Works today for some video game fun! I wish I was going too! However, my daughter is not feeling well and I am going to stay with her.

Have a great day!

Brian