This will be my last post before my Open-Heart Surgery for the Bentall procedure on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at AdventHealth Hospital Downtown Orlando with Dr. Accola (my surgeon). I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for all your support and well wishes. Although I know it’s an extremely complicated and risky procedure, I feel strong and ready to face it. The plan is that I will most likely be in the ICU for 3 days and then to a step-down unit for 4, 5 or 6 days, “depending on how I do” (Dr. Accola’s words).

I have a wonderful support system in place. I’m so grateful that I will have friends and family to help care for me during my long recovery. First and foremost, my husband David, who is walking this journey each day by my side and has been so patient and kind during my low points.  Thank you to sister Susan Beecher, sister Stacey Chelak, brother and sister in-laws John and Katie Nina and great friend Debbie Carpenter for each offering their “expert nursing services “for a week each as I face this long recovery. I am really looking forward to seeing everyone, even though I wish it was under better circumstances. My sister Sarah and cousin Leeann had planned to come too, but are battling their own health issues at this time. You will be missed, and I will be praying for you both.

Thank you to Aylin Arditi, Alyssa Heitman and Nicole Grunwald for helping to take care of Dolly and Brooks while I’m at the hospital and during recovery. You’ve been great friends to me and so supportive!  It really takes a village! As always, my stepsons Davis and Alex, along with Lizzie and Michaela, have all stepped up to help me. Thank you for being here for me!  A big thank you to Kat Boyd for the delicious dinner and friendship, and to Paul Boyd, her husband, for setting up this blog! So many of you have called, written and texted your support and I appreciate each and every one of you.

As I take this next big step, I welcome your prayers for healing and peace and your positive thoughts for each small victory along the way.

Holding you all in my heart as you hold me in yours.

Love, Sharon