When I called Carrie this afternoon she was enjoying a wonderful afternoon at the playground with Ella Brooks! The were having fun and meeting new friends. I could hear Ella Brooks giggling in the background. Ella Brooks even had a moment in her busy schedule to speak to "Gran Sarah" and fill me in on the important playground activities! Heath and Chris were having some "guy" time at home!

Heath's doctor's appointment today was not as involved as they had anticipated but the doctor was pleased that his breathing had much improved since his initial exam at UNC. With all of the details to coordinate among doctors, procedures, insurance, etc. the labs and consultations should occur later this week. They are hopeful to have Heath on the transplant list as soon as Monday, November 24 or Monday, December 1. In anticipation of the transplant, the doctors are encouraged that baby Heath is physically as well as he could possibly be with this diagnosis. That is very good news!

They have done much research on the transplant procedure and have discovered not only the importance of having a skilled surgical team but the necessity of having skilled post-surgical care. So, just as a precaution, and with great support from their UNC team of doctors, they are seeking a second opinion from Duke later this week. As you would expect, they want to make the best possible decision for Heath's surgery, successful recovery and be reassured they are moving forward well informed.

Finally, as Carrie opened the mailbox today, she and Chris were both overcome with emotion and gratefulness for the outpouring of cards, letters, gift cards, notes, etc. Carrie said in the moments when she does not feel very strong, she gives thanks for the tremendous strength she gains from each of you and your expressions of love and concern. They are acutely aware that God is indeed at work through the love and support of those they know and even those they have never met. They are most thankful they do not have to make this journey alone.

That's all for now. I'll update more later this week.

Blessings, "Gran Sarah"