Although he was actually having heart attacks, Adrian was initially misdiagnosed as having panic attacks. As the undiagnosed heart attacks continued without treatment, his heart muscle was fully destroyed. Over the course of a week, Adrian’s journey to a life-saving heart transplant included an urgent life-flight to Denver and several heart tests and procedures.
Now, as the family navigates next with the miraculous transplant, we want to thank the truly incredible medical team at UCHealth Heart and Vascular Center in Aurora, Colorado. The wonderful treatment Adrian received from all of the staff and medical team is absolutely why he is here and home today.
Updates (4)
August 27, 2024
Adrian is home again!
And, we're completely grateful to the dedication of his med team, the kindness of every nurse, and the care the full team had with him every day.
He got released after two weeks of procedures and surgeries to ensure all wounds were clear and healthy on Saturday, August 24!
He is resting at home, gaining strength daily, and spending time with his amazing dad, Vince, who has been with us every step of the day and constantly by his side.
August 16, 2024
Week of August 12 update
It's often difficult to find the words to encompass the incredible highs (Adrian is with us a month post transplant!) with the discouraging lows and uncertainty in recovery. This week has brought with it a series of setbacks and healing complications that have Adrian back in the hospital. As the community championing him, we want to share a few headlines from the last several days:
- Late last week his biopsy revealed higher rejection numbers. The team collected data and have been consistent in tracking his meds to regulate this change.
- Adrian returned to the hospital Monday following a weekend of increased discomfort and infections both around his heart and his thigh (where the ECMO machine had been placed).
- After doctor's assessed, it was determined he would need two surgeries this week - 1) the first as to clear up the chest infection and wounds, this was a success 2) the second was for his thigh to reconstruct the area from where the ECMO had been placed, they also cleaned the chest wound again. Recovery with this surgery will be slower and require enormous rest and pacing for Adrian.
- We learned there will be further procedures to his chest to suppress further infection next week.
- He will remain in the hospital as everything post-op is monitored and to determine additional needs around wounds in recovery.
Coming home is the goal, and yet, we know he is where he needs to be with immense support and expertise. We are very grateful to the health team, their expert guidance and care, and feel confident we are moving forward again.
Photo Galleries (1)
Guestbook
August 21, 2024
Sending prayers!
Maria Ramowski
August 19, 2024
I was hoping to spend tomorrow hanging out with you. I look forward to seeing you friend.
Ryan Balciar
August 17, 2024
Sending love.
Kathryn Starbuck
