Have had several people ask what exactly is involved in an ASD. While I've known about Julia's condition for a few years now, I have to admit that even though I've tried to absorb all the specifics from our many MD appts., I realize my mind must have been speeding a million miles trying to process everything. Most things are a blur by the time we leave. That's why it's been nice to have my cool, calm and collected husband, Jim, at these sessions. He does a lot better job taking in all of the info and asking the right questions!! It's hard for most people who know Julia to believe that she actually has an ASD because she is so energetic -- Tasmanian Devil energetic. She's one of those patients who hasn't presented any symptoms and seems very healthy. They tell us that once this ASD is repaired, she will have even more pep! Yup. And, the rest of us will be upping our vitamins!

At any rate, here is all you could ever want to know about an ASD from Children's Medical Center's Web site for those who want the specific details.

https://www.childrens.com/HealthLibrary/HealthLibContent.cfm?pageid=P01766

When you pull up this page and scroll through the information, you will see a photo of a physician with an infant to the right. This is Dr. Forbess. I feel so fortunate that we were able to secure a spot for Julia on his surgery schedule. His services are very, very much in demand. I know that our Houston physician, Dr. Nugent, must have been instrumental in helping us to do this. I am very thankful to both!

We're a week away from Julia's hospital appointment. Her spirits are great; she's eagerly looking forward to putting this all behind her.

Thanks for all of your prayers and good wishes. We are very blessed to be surrounded by so many wonderful friends and family members.

Dag