Thoughts from Mark "Hat" Rackley

This is a note to let everyone know that my wife came through the surgery yesterday just fine. The vascular surgeon connected an artery and a vein in her left arm near the elbow. The purpose of this procedure is for future hemodialysis access – according to the vascular surgeon, a doctor that deals with arteries and veins and may not be able to spell “kidney.” Sorry, they have good educations and may be able to spell words that are not in their specialty. My point is the name “hemodialysis access” instead of installing a fistula.

But then, it is not a fistula. It has a great chance of growing into a fistula, but in its embryonic state, it will take about two months to mature. It is different than the abortion issue – when is life “life?” The fistula has to heal and strengthen before it can be used. There is something there, but if it were used now, the area around the incision has not healed and the added pressure from the kidney dialysis could cause a blowout.

So, we wait, and feel the buzz – a great sign that it will someday soon be viable.

After the surgery, my wife had no use of her left arm. I learned that I am a lousy nurse. But this morning she can move the arm. I still have to open things for her and carry things, but the tender loving care (TLC) is not constant.

God is the great healer.

Soli Deo Gloria.  Only to God be the Glory.