Success!

We just met with Dr. Del Nido. The surgery was very successful. The goretex "patch" was enlarged and re-attached at a slightly different location, and the scar tissue beneath the aortic valve was removed. The goretex that was put in at her last surgery (at 4 years old) to prevent the heart from sticking to the sternum had wrapped around her aorta above the valve, causing it to restrict and keeping it from growing. The surgeon corrected that by widening the aorta. Finally, a small hole in the atrial septum was sutured. Med-speak for her heart is fixed, hopefully for a long, long time. We told Sophia that after the surgery she'll feel better, more energized, and be able to participate in more strenous activities. This looks like it will be the case. She's already expecting that, and is very excited about the prospects.

Sophia will be in ICU for at least another 36 hours, then moved to recovery for a few more days; then we'll see some more of Boston before returning.Thanks to everyone for their support, prayers and positive thoughts.

Astrid has a huge crush on Dr. Del Nido. I can see why - he's very cute.