Thank you for your support during Tracey's recovery! Tracey will be undergoing open heart surgery on Tuesday, August 6th, 2019. During her 2 week long hospital stay this spring, we found out she suffers from congenital heart failure (CHF). She suffered from a stroke and a pulmonary embolism while in the hospital and we were informed she would need a valve replacement as soon as possible. She has been awaiting the surgery while recovering from the stroke. It is safest to wait 6+ months before undergoing heart surgery post-stroke, but her care team does not feel comfortable waiting any longer. While meeting with her surgeon for pre-op consultationlast week, we found out she also has a dilated ascending aorta that needs to be replaced. She will have this procedure completed while they have her chest open replacing the valve. She will be on heart and lung bypass during this surgery, which means her risk of a repeated stroke is increased. She is looking at a 10 day hospital stay after her surgery, with an additional 6-8 weeks recovery at home. Thankfully, her job is protected under FMLA, so she will be able to return to her position after the recovery period. Unfortunately, she used nearly all of her paid time off during her last hospital stay and recovery in the Spring, and this hospital stay and recovery will be unpaid. Many friends and family members have asked what they can do to help during this time. I have created this meal train for a easy way to assist in Tracey's recovery. If cooking isn't your jam, you are able to purchase grocery store giftcards (Aldi's, Schnucks, Fresh Thyme are all local) and we will have a family member designated to do her grocery shopping for her while she is homebound. There is also a link to donate directly to Tracey's PayPal, which can be used for groceries and toiletries! We are so grateful to be surrounded with such a wonderful support system. The outpouring of love and concern for my mom's health is truly heart warming!