Sunday, August 3 after a wonderful beach trip with friends AJ begin feeling “off”. Experiencing some mild nausea, minor chest pain, and a few other symptoms that could be easily brushed off he decided he probably should get checked out. His dad suggested a trip to the fire department, knowing they were fully equipped to check him for a heart attack or other symptoms. Upon initial examination, they could see something was off, but did not have a clear picture of what it was so they took him to Baylor grapevines emergency department. AJ and Kate spent the afternoon anticipating a simple triage and be released with little to no findings. As evening approach, it became a parent that there was more going on than originally thought. On Monday, August 4 AJ and Kate got the news that he had almost 100% blockage in all four valves of his heart. The doctors were astounded that he was still alive, but quickly informed them that he would require bypass surgery. There are countless details that could be told already of the Lords detailed hand in this turn of events and we know He is not done yet.
First and foremost your prayers and encouragement is monumental and invaluable during this time. During the course of this process, the needs that AJ, Kate, and their family will have will shift. Several people have asked about a gofund me or Venmo. I have set up a venmo specifically for this time. Anyone wishing to contribute can find the link below. AJ is transitioning to a great new job, however in light of surgery will be without a paycheck for at least 6 weeks. Anyone wishing to contribute in this way can do so through an gofundme acount that has been created on their behalf. Go fund me requires a goal amount be set up however, this is simply an avenue for those who requested a way to contribute financially. IT IS MEAL TRAIN TIME! MEAL TRAIN WHATS AND WHAT NOTS: Thank you all for wanting to help with meals! Anything you bring is a tremendous blessing. Below is some guidance and direction for meals whether you love to cook, order out, or live and die by a gift card. Heart healthy meals: If you love to share meals you have prepared things that will help AJ and Kate stick within the doctors guidelines are little to no processed foods, canned food, dark meats, and high sodium items. In other words meals from the heart that are mostly whole foods, with lean meats are best. Frozen and fresh vegetables and fruit are fine. Below are some great options if you want to pick up for them, or if you would like to provide a gift card: Cowboy chicken J macklins Cava Original Chop shop Flower child Salata Grain and berry Chipotle Modern market eatery Prayer support GC There is a link to help financially while AJ is out of work for those that asked. I will add more days as we figure out more specific needs See GC links below! If you are interested in helping with any of the above, please email [email protected] or text 4698783343