Mom's cardiologist has told us that he considers her to be terminal. The aortic valve calcification will only become worse, he says. He says she would not survive valve replacement surgery. She is home now under the care of hospice. I was doing some research on aortic stenosis, and basically confirmed her doctor's estimate of no more than 1 to 2 years survival. I did find that the University of Maryland is doing a new less invasive valve replacement through a tiny incision between the ribs. We are planning to ask her cardiologist about this procedure during her follow up visit on Tuesday.

This morning I awakened before my alarm. I was praying for Mom when I felt compelled to look at the internet. I got out of bed, and turned on my computer. I went to the site of our local newspaper which I look at almost every day. I was surprised to find an article about a local surgeon who is doing the same procedure. This is encouraging. I will ask her doc on Tuesday since I plan to accompany her for her visit. I am definitely not giving up hope yet.