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Deep From the Heart of Texas...
Nov 05, 2009 4:53 AM GMT
Yesterday, I got a call from one of my closed Buddies on RJ.
http://www.realjock.com/profile?id=242695
Scott and I have been close pals since I first arrived on RJ over 2 years ago. We've emailed till our fingers bled, burned up the phone lines, laughed and cried real tears and been there for the other in the good times and the bad.
Some of you may remember a thread about a year ago when he suffered from MVP (Micro Valce Relapse) and he bounced back like a champ. Well, a short while ago, he had to fight his way back from Triple Bypass Surgery.
His poor heart has really been through the ringer at this point.
Yesterday's call was to tell me that he only has 60% of his heart working at this point with a 40% loss compared to you and I.

His spirits are good but he can only take so much. The idea of him leaving us one day is a really tough one for me to swallow.
No matter how much I try and prepare myself for the eventual loss of our special bond, it just gets harder as the days go by.
Please take the time to offer him a kind word or any thoughts of encouragement you might have.
Some of you may have remembered him as SouthernGuy.
Scotty, I love you man! Forever your CP...
Tony ; )
Photobuckethttp://www.realjock.com/profile?id=242695
Nov 05, 2009 5:58 AM GMT
Tony... you are awesome.
"Done"
xoxo
Marly_le_Roi Posts: 18
Nov 05, 2009 6:22 AM GMT
Tony is a great friend to think up this forum allowing us to pay tribute to this extraordinary man who has similarly touched my life with his genuineness and gentle manliness. "SouthernGuy" is as fine as they come! I am among those who is hoping and praying he will come though this and remain with us for years to come. Like Tony, I love my regular chats with Scott on subjects ranging from politics to our favourite films. But in the end, what made me adore and respect this special friend is his joie de vivre, his epic generosity to people in need and less fortunate, and his utter lack of pretension. The man is "the real thing". Few people have accomplished so much professionally and as a human being to make the world a better place. And fewer people would be as modest about it as he is. Much love and hopes for better times goes out to Scott from me here in S FL!
HndsmKansan Posts: 5908
Nov 05, 2009 7:51 AM GMT
Tony,
Thanks for taking the time to brief us on Scott and his condition. Its awesome you care the way you do.

RJ is many things and I've made some fantastic friends here, those that I talk to on a daily basis. I'm pleased and uplifted at your concern for Scott
and I hope he recovers and his heart ultimately is strengthened by the surgeries.....and from the heartfelt support you and others have given him,
I would hope all will be successful.
Nov 05, 2009 8:18 AM GMT
Wow! Scott, if you're also checking out this forum, I feel like I'm missing out by not having chatted with someone deserving of such praise and dedication.

I truly hope you find the strength and professional care to pull through this ordeal and that we get a chance for a tête-à-tête soon!

Best wishes,
Jim
Nov 05, 2009 12:13 PM GMT
Scott knows how I feel about him. He is a fine man and truly unique and has is own special way that is unlike any other.
He is an amazing man and my thoughts and prayers are with him now. For all of the talking and writing we did, he always has a special place in my heart.
MikePhilPerez Posts: 3688
Nov 05, 2009 1:27 PM GMT
Scott, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care of yourself.

Mike
Nov 05, 2009 2:12 PM GMT
Scott, if you are listening this morning... I have to say, I can't make it through this video without shedding a tear. It's my favorite version of a truly beautiful song. It will always remind me of our special times together and may it live on in your heart in the ever after. Love you,
Tony
Nov 05, 2009 2:14 PM GMT
I've heard good, interesting stories about Scott from two great guys on R.J. and I've communicated with him in the past as well. I just sent Scott a letter with my best wishes as he goes through this period of solicitude.

Best of everything to you, Scott.
Nov 05, 2009 2:43 PM GMT

Done!

Thank you, Tony!
center Posts: 132
Nov 05, 2009 2:46 PM GMT
From one southern guy to another, let me know if there is anything you need. We actually live in the same state. Even if we are not in the same city, I might be able to make some arrangements if I can help you in any way.
Marly_le_Roi Posts: 18
Nov 05, 2009 2:55 PM GMT
I am deeply pleased to see so many people "get it" about Scott. He made a huge difference in MY life and he knows it! Like Tony, who thoughtfully started this page of tribute, I too love Scott so much for being the special discretely sexy unassuming giving gentle human being he is and for reaching out to start a dialogue with me in 2008 that continues to this day. Scott has enriched my life more than anyone will ever be able to imagine. Nothing puts a smile on my face more than a call from Scott in the middle of a workday. It's so appropriate that his birthday falls on Valentine's Day...This man only brings joy and happiness to anyone fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him! God bless you Scott!
Nov 05, 2009 3:52 PM GMT
Scott...don't know you, man...But I hope you are hanging tough & know you have a LOT of friends that care and love you !!!

Not much of a prayer but am sending one out for you...
Nov 05, 2009 8:36 PM GMT
Happily, I can report that Scott's Dr. called today and offered to put him on a short waiting list for a heart transplant. He's number 6 in line!
He has to be ready at a moments notice to have the procedure and the recovery is a bit long...
I'm thrilled to know he's willing to give it a try as he's already been through a lot and chances are he'd only have 6 months left without it.
He's one tough dude and I have faith that of all the people I know, he has the strongest will to live. If all goes well, he could live into his 70's the doc. thinks.
This news just brought color back into my life.
Oh happy Day!
Tony ; )
Miasma Posts: 590
Nov 05, 2009 8:46 PM GMT
He's in my prayers
Marly_le_Roi Posts: 18
Nov 06, 2009 2:51 AM GMT
Thanks Tony! God Bless you for bringing such good news to me this evening about our great mutual friend!
jprichva Posts: 4651
Nov 06, 2009 2:53 AM GMT
I got a heartbreaking email from Scott this morning.

I hope he gets a new heart.

It better be as loving as the one he's got though.
Nov 06, 2009 2:54 AM GMT


Fingers crossed for Scott, and eyes, and toes, and legs and arms (we seem to be doing this a lot lately, lol!)


lifted Posts: 272
Nov 06, 2009 2:56 AM GMT
sorry brains do the loving, dude. but i hope he gets a good pumper
warren39 Posts: 1
Nov 06, 2009 3:11 AM GMT
I am very touched by that story knowing what it is like to fight the long fight. I had a friend that really displayed to me a miracle in heart surgery and know that some are more deserving of it than me but if it is triple bypass surgery he probably doesn't need another heart just someone to fix it. I am one to cry for nobody so I am very touched yet mortified to wonder why the need would be a heart. This man looks WAY too healthy. I wrote him things I wish I did not say and I do love him like all my brothers.
Nov 06, 2009 3:49 AM GMT
Great news... Scott's been moved up to number 2 on the list due to the severity of his condition. It's all just a matter of time now. Hard to believe the heart that may save his life is now beating in someone else's body.
Ahhh the miracles of modern medicine.....
Marly_le_Roi Posts: 18
Nov 06, 2009 3:56 AM GMT

Thanks again Tony! What a great update to the previous update! It looked so dismal yesterday... And now there is reason for great optimism!
Nov 06, 2009 6:20 AM GMT
Great news for you, Scott. Being moved up on the waiting list is a great piece of news! You have a lot of great guys here wishing for the best of health for you!

namche Posts: 2
Nov 06, 2009 6:54 AM GMT
Scott? Well, certainly it's my screw up that I've not previously taken the opportunity to have introduced myself and have so obviously have messed up not to have met such a hell of a guy before now. So, I'm just gonna have to consider this goof of mine as a temporary oversight. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Get on your feet and be well soon. Okay?

Tony? Thanks for this post. Clearly, you're also an extraordinary man and thanks so much for your kindness. It's inspiring. Really.

Rich

Nov 06, 2009 7:02 AM GMT
That is great that he was moved up.

Hope and good thoughts with Scott, his family, and his friends.
Nov 06, 2009 6:23 PM GMT
Great News!
Scott has moved up to the # 1 slot and next in line for the heart transplant. He's leaving today at 1pm for DC to be on call and waiting in the wings for the surgery. He is a bit nervous as we all would be.
Scott wanted to express his sincere thanks for all the support you guys have shown him in this scary time. I'm proud to call you guys my buds for all your warmth and friendship.
Have a great weekend and let's hope by Monday he has a new lease on life ; )
Nov 06, 2009 10:06 PM GMT
This is it... They think they have found a donor match and if all goes well, they plan to give Scott a new heart by this evening!
The donor comes from a 23 year old male from Dallas...
The details are too sad to go into, but the chance to save another life still amazes me to no end. This really makes me want to become an organ donor myself.
More to come, I'm sure...

edit: before I could even finish this post.
It's On!!! They are admitting him now.
*faints*
IdkMyBffJill Posts: 51
Nov 06, 2009 10:13 PM GMT
Hope it goes well for him. Fingers crossed.
realifedad Posts: 1865
Nov 06, 2009 10:29 PM GMT
I'll add that I too am glad to know Scott, He's kept his spirits up in spite of tremendous odds in his life. just last spring he experienced a terrible accident with debilitating results, barely got over it and then his heart attack around 6 weeks ago. I got to speak to him just before he left for DC, his spirits seemed good and he feels confidence in the doctors who are caring for him, so we'll add our thoughts for his courage and recovery. He's very strong which is what's keeping him going, people who care and express it will help him even more. I'm sure he'll be reading this as soon as he can. Bless you Scott !!!
Nov 06, 2009 10:36 PM GMT
This is wonderful news for Scott and I'm over here sending out as many positive thoughts as I can. You are not alone in this, Scott.
calibro Posts: 1348
Nov 06, 2009 10:39 PM GMT
Thanks for keeping me posted Tony; my prayers are with him.
Thirdbeach Posts: 836
Nov 06, 2009 10:46 PM GMT
Thanks for keeping us posted, Tony.
I hope everything goes well for Scott.


I hope the family of the 23yr old donor feels some warmth in the gift that their loss provides to someone else (a complete stranger).
Nov 07, 2009 2:54 AM GMT
The heart arrived at the hospital at 9PM.
Nov 07, 2009 3:02 AM GMT


We wait; we hope. We're optimistic.
creature Posts: 324
Nov 07, 2009 3:38 AM GMT
I pray that all goes well.
Nov 07, 2009 3:42 AM GMT
The Surgery will be 8-10 hours long AND...........................

IS GOING ON RIGHT NOW!

It's been very interesting to hear from the hospital. The heart has arrived and they began about 90 mins. ago at 9pm eastern time. They predict the surgery to be over around 5am or so.
Our final conversation was light and easy but somewhat shaky on both ends.
It was not farewell, but see you in about 10 days when they let him talk on the phone or text or email if he's up to it.
This has to be one of the oddest sets of emotions I have ever experienced in my life.
Full of awe and wonder yet filled with anxiety and optimism.
Please pass along all your good vibes and positive thoughts for his healthy return...
Nov 07, 2009 1:04 PM GMT
The surgery is complete and the doctor said that the new heart is functioning well and that Scott is doing well and looks good. The next 24 hours he'll be out of it though.
Nov 07, 2009 1:11 PM GMT
(sound of heart reflects cautious optimism)
Nov 07, 2009 1:19 PM GMT
Houston, we have lift off!
Just like clock work, the new ticker arrived on time and the surgery was over at 5:15 this morning. I'm told he looks so much better. Most likely from all the increased blood pumping through those veins.
What a huge relief this is...
realifedad Posts: 1865
Nov 07, 2009 2:35 PM GMT
Oh damn this is good news !!!! I went to bed concerned about Scott !!! thanks so much for keeping us posted !!!
Nov 07, 2009 2:47 PM GMT
Great news T and thank you for sharing this story. You're a great friend
Nov 07, 2009 3:04 PM GMT

Thank you very much for the excellent updates. I wish Scott a speedy recovery. My thoughts and profound thanks also go out to the family of the organ donor whose loss made this possible.

For those of you reading this who have not already done so, please consider becoming a registered organ donor. In many states you can arrange for your drivers license to be marked with a symbol to show that you agree to post-mortem donation.
Nov 07, 2009 4:18 PM GMT
lol, now we're trying untangle all our crossed limbs.

We're very relieved and so happy for Scott, and you, Tony!

Are you going to be able to get in to see him?
Nov 07, 2009 8:31 PM GMT
meninlove said
Are you going to be able to get in to see him?

Unfortunately no... he's in a government hospital in DC via his profession.
He'll be out of it for awhile and stay at least 10 more days before they will consider sending him home. He's on the anti-rejection pills now and will be on the respirator a few days before they try and make him breath on his own with the new heart.He'll be in ICU for days to come. Special care room is next and then they will see how it all goes from there. I'll wait for him to get home before I ask about a visit. I'm just glad he has such a strong will to live.
I'm sure we will all be hearing from him sometime after Turkey day.
Gobble Gobble...
GuiltyGear Posts: 5927
Nov 07, 2009 8:46 PM GMT

I think I know what you want to get deep in the heart of.
Hillie Posts: 1329
Nov 07, 2009 8:56 PM GMT
Done!
Nov 07, 2009 9:37 PM GMT
He may have a new heart.. but he's still that same man I once knew.

May I touch his heart as much as he's touched mine over the years.
XO, Tony ; )

Nov 08, 2009 2:05 AM GMT
Tony, please tell Scott that MOM is completely thrilled after going through major conniptions over this and him the last 24 hours.

lol, she said, "Mercy!" so many times we're surprised the clouds didn't part with a giant voice saying, "Stop already, I'm on it Alison!"


Heheh -us
Nov 08, 2009 5:48 AM GMT
It's all baby steps at this point,,, but they decided to take the respirator off tonight and let him try breathing on his own.
All in small doses I'm told.
He has a long road ahead of him, but I'm sure of all people, he's up for the challenge!
Get well Scotty,,, I miss you!
realifedad Posts: 1865
Nov 08, 2009 5:54 AM GMT
I'm imagining that Scott is still mostly sedated right now, so do you think he even realizes what's being done right now? Won't be be kind of "out" for at least two days? The shock to his body has got to be extreme, so I can only imagine how this affects him.
Nov 08, 2009 6:00 AM GMT
Oh, I definitely think he's on some major drugs and has no clue that he's trying to breath on his own.. I was doped up so much when they removed my Appendix and then Gallbladder 4 years later that I don't even remember some of the visitors from both operations. Ahhh, the beauty of anesthesia.
Nov 08, 2009 6:34 AM GMT
Glad to hear your friend has made it through surgery and is off the vent.

This is a great post to encourage people to think about donating their organs and making sure someone close to you, preferably a DPOA, knows your wishes. I've worked several organ donation cases as an ICU nurse. Most of the time, the stories can be quite disturbing as to how these organs make it for donation, but the lives they impact are amazing. It is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job to receive the letter from the organ sharing alliance. I guess I'm really the only one that gets it besides the family. They actually break down where each organ went, how the recipient did through the process and what they are doing now (enjoying their hobbies, spending time with family and friends, going to the park, etc.). These organs go all over the country. I like keeping those letters. It's a pleasant reminder of all the lives that are influenced by what I do. In sorrow, there can be hope. Please, know where you stand on these issues.

I recover CABG and Valve Replacements in the CVICU. I don't work with transplants, but the news you received sounds like things are moving in the right direction. You'll actually be surprised at how well things move along as long as there are no complications. My thoughts go out for your friend.
Nov 08, 2009 6:42 AM GMT
Thanks Kev. What a great post and thanks for the encouragement about becoming a donor.. This is something I want to look into myself. Can you shed some light on the subject of how to become an organ donor? Thanks Bud. Tony ; )
jawrhed Posts: 617
Nov 08, 2009 6:44 AM GMT
I think I signed up for it when I renewed my Drivers liscense.
Nov 08, 2009 7:17 AM GMT
Yeah, you can check it on your driver's license. It won't hold up unless you have a living will or Durable Power of Attorney, DPOA. Even though a living will may state your wishes, once you become incapacitated to make decisions for yourself, your next of kin can override it. Kinda sucks, but it happens more than you think. It's best to have it all written out and that your loved ones/DPOA knows what your wishes are. The last part of this is what is crucial.

I'm around death a whole lot more than most people and am okay talking about it. A lot of people aren't and it really isn't a topic of daily conversation. Just know that at any age it could happen. If you have fears of talking about it, try to put them aside to make sure that someone knows what you would want to be done if your organs were eligible to be taken for transplant.

The Texas Organ Sharing Alliance, TOSA, could probably provide you with more information that is specific for Texas.
Nov 08, 2009 4:00 PM GMT
Thanks Kevin for that info. I'll look it up shortly and also mention it to my family in a few weeks during our Thanksgiving visit, so there is no problems later on down the road. They're good people and I highly doubt I'll have any push back.

Now.. On the Scott front- He's totally off the vent and breathing on his own.
He and the new heart are doing well. The Dr. is so happy with his progress that they are moving Scott to a step down room this evening.
He's been given permission to make a call later around 6pm if all goes well and has asked me to be around to take it. So,, I'll fill you in later once I hear the news from the horses mouth. I've heard him weak a few times now so I expect it may be a very short conversation. It always helps to know there are folks out there that love you and stand by your side even half way across the US.
Nov 08, 2009 4:05 PM GMT
If only he had enough energy at 6, I think this is what he might be thinking.
Picture Scott in the Streisand seat... he is a short hair younger ya know..


Marly_le_Roi Posts: 18
Nov 08, 2009 4:38 PM GMT

Thanks for all these bulletins Tony! All this good news is really not surprising as we know Scott is strong and just destined to bounce back better than ever. The man always reminds me of a great big oak tree. I look forward to learning more as updates become available. Thanks again for sharing!
baldone Posts: 280
Nov 08, 2009 8:07 PM GMT
this has to be the most awesome thread here ever..scott..i don't know you but i wish you much love from cleveland and hugs while you recover...you are spoken of very highly on rj and hope some day to be able to get to know you..tony, thanks for letting us all know and keeping us updated on how he is doiing..scott is very lucky to have you and so many others on here as friends
you guys all rock on this site....why i love being here
Nov 08, 2009 11:26 PM GMT
Happy Days really are here again!!!
He sounds great... Kinda like the 6 Million Dollar Man.
He's been reconstructed and stronger than ever. We couldn't talk for long but overall he feels much better and what a fighter he is!
The doctor said by the looks of the heart they removed he wouldn't have lived another week! He can feel the heart beating but says it's not uncomfortable. I'm amazed how fast all this happened. I didn't expect to hear him speak for close to a week.
Happy just doesn't seem strong enough a word for how I feel right now... ; )
Nov 09, 2009 2:06 AM GMT
that's great, T. most patients that have heart procedures are hyper-aware of their heartbeat. It sounds like he is progressing quickly. Like I said, you'd be surprised at how well they do. He has youth on his side.

My mom needs a lung transplant. Unfortunately those are way more difficult. England only does a heart-lung transplant. A friend of mine was telling me that she knew a guy that needed a lung. Well, he decided to go to England to have it done. I guess they apparently have better results with lungs than the USA. A donor came in, they took his heart out and gave it to someone else that needed just a heart and then gave him a new heart and lungs from the donor. Kinda weird, but she said it all worked out and both did fine. He actually recovered alongside the girl that received his heart. I mean, I'm all about sharing, but really...LOL. There has been so much more advancement in the transplants of heart, kidneys, and liver in comparison to lungs. Just some more FYI facts for ya.

I'll keep your friend in my thoughts......good news!!!!
realifedad Posts: 1865
Nov 09, 2009 2:44 AM GMT
I am so glad to get this news about Scott, I can hear him saying "oh I'll be fine" Scott we wish you a continued speedy recovery !!! Hugs from Dennis
zdrew Posts: 2822
Nov 09, 2009 3:00 AM GMT
This is why we should all check that little box that says 'organ donor?' when we renew our driver's licenses.
Nov 09, 2009 5:17 AM GMT
zdrew saidThis is why we should all check that little box that says 'organ donor?' when we renew our driver's licenses.

I doubt I'll wait till it's time to renew my license to get that little box checked now that I have seen the importance up close and personal.
I'll be checking into it tomorrow...
jprichva Posts: 4651
Nov 09, 2009 5:21 AM GMT
TheGuyNextDoor said
zdrew saidThis is why we should all check that little box that says 'organ donor?' when we renew our driver's licenses.

I doubt I'll wait till it's time to renew my license to get that little box checked now that I have seen the importance up close and personal.
I'll be checking into it tomorrow...

Tony, no! Don't you dare give away that organ!!
Greyston Posts: 28
Nov 09, 2009 5:46 AM GMT
I'll be prayin' for his full recovery
Marly_le_Roi Posts: 18
Nov 09, 2009 3:08 PM GMT
I have had to slip away for a short assignment and am grateful to return to such news Tony! Many thanks as always and keep sharing with Scott's friends any bulletins as the become available. I KNOW this has been tough for you as well and appreciate the efforts you make to share the news. Our friend Scott is more than just strong. He is Olympian and worthy of the heroes in Greek mythology! Wish him all the best from me when you next speak!
Nov 09, 2009 3:12 PM GMT
TheGuyNextDoor saidHappy Days really are here again!!!
He sounds great... Kinda like the 6 Million Dollar Man.
He's been reconstructed and stronger than ever. We couldn't talk for long but overall he feels much better and what a fighter he is!
The doctor said by the looks of the heart they removed he wouldn't have lived another week! He can feel the heart beating but says it's not uncomfortable. I'm amazed how fast all this happened. I didn't expect to hear him speak for close to a week.
Happy just doesn't seem strong enough a word for how I feel right now... ; )
YAY!! Great news!
Nov 09, 2009 3:13 PM GMT
zdrew saidThis is why we should all check that little box that says 'organ donor?' when we renew our driver's licenses.
Absolutely, you don't realize how meaningful it is until you have to start thinking about it happening to someone you love. It's very important and a gift that can NOT be compared. The gift of life.
Nov 09, 2009 6:56 PM GMT
Yes Don, truer words were never spoken. To give an organ so another person can live as you die is the greatest gift of all.

What a difference a day makes.. They have progressed Scott from a step down room to a normal hospital room. His voice was strong and full of joy this morning and if he behaves himself, they send him home his coming Sunday!

The Dr. told Scott that he was a miracle. He's not experiencing some of the normal pains he should be. He's healing at an advanced rate and is starting to take baby steps out of his bed.
Watch out world, he'll be on the loose before we know it!
Marly_le_Roi Posts: 18
Nov 09, 2009 9:41 PM GMT
Tony,

You are the bearer of glad tidings today... Many thanks for these bulletins. Scott's comeback is clearly nothing short of heroic!

Grateful that you share these updates and appreciate all you do for our good friend Scott!

Juan
Nov 09, 2009 9:56 PM GMT
Nov 10, 2009 2:26 PM GMT

We just voted for Scott for Man Of The Day.

Least we can do for him and the OP, Tony!


Anyone else?

http://www.realjock.com/profile?id=242695

With all he's been through, this seems fitting. A brave guy who's persevered and now getting a new lease on life with a new heart.


-Doug and Bill
Nov 10, 2009 6:05 PM GMT
Everyone!! Please vote for Scott "Man of the Day". If anyone ever deserved the distinction, this man does!

http://www.realjock.com/profile?id=242695


Thanks
mickeytopogig... Posts: 2614
Nov 10, 2009 6:12 PM GMT
Done.
realifedad Posts: 1865
Nov 10, 2009 7:14 PM GMT
Just voted !!!! If you could hear just how strong his voice is now and how much like himself he is in just a matter of days, you would know this man truely is "MAN OF THE DAY" His resiliance is amazing !!! Maybe he should change his profile name to "COMEBACKKID"
Nov 10, 2009 7:44 PM GMT
Well.... I guess..

hehe. Of course he deserves it. I can't think of a better recognition for Scott about right now.
He's got my vote for sure!
JP85257 Posts: 398
Nov 10, 2009 8:54 PM GMT
This whole little thread makes me happy. You guys are so sweet.

I voted.
Marly_le_Roi Posts: 18
Nov 11, 2009 3:42 AM GMT
Scott knows he has my vote anytime for man of the YEAR!
realifedad Posts: 1865
Nov 11, 2009 2:41 PM GMT
I'm starting a VOTE FOR SOUTHERNGUY1961 for man of the day, under group activities
steltom Posts: 819
Nov 11, 2009 2:58 PM GMT
I did vote for him...

realifedad said I'm starting a VOTE FOR SOUTHERNGUY1961 for man of the day, under group activities
Nov 12, 2009 6:14 AM GMT
Imagine getting a new heart. Now imagine being 48 and getting heart from someone half your age. Well, as we all know, that's what our lucky pal Scott just went through.

Today he got a little visit from the family of the 23 year old boy that was tragically killed in a car accident. Mom, Dad and all 3 brothers came to see Scott in the hospital. The son that lost his life was the youngest of 4 boys.
The oldest son told Scott that he can now be his new big brother.
That just brought tears to my eyes trying to imagine seeing the person that has his brothers heart still pounding in someone else's chest.
I'm still amazed how all this evolved from the beginning of this thread and even before that when Scott asked me what I thought he should do and I pushed him to get the transplant.. it all has happened so fast.
Today he's been moved again to a Hospital/Hotel just outside of Atlanta now (a bit closer to home) where he'll stay for a bit more observation before being released to go home in about a week.
What a difference a day makes!
Nov 12, 2009 6:38 AM GMT
That's really amazing. 48 with the heart of a 23 year old

I have heard claims of "organ memory" where organ recipients have strange experiences that somehow relate to the donor. A habit, a particular taste or even a skill. Don't know that I believe it, but it is interesting.

Anyway I hope he pulls through OK
Nov 13, 2009 6:36 AM GMT
Ya know, I really hope Tony wins some kind of award for this. He really does deserve something. Such a great guy!!! We should all have friends like him...Oops, I forgot, we already do. ..Yeay, Tony !!!
Nov 13, 2009 2:08 PM GMT
I had this song stuck in my head while thinking about Scott recently....
realifedad Posts: 1865
Nov 13, 2009 2:15 PM GMT
TheGuyNextDoor saidImagine getting a new heart. Now imagine being 48 and getting heart from someone half your age. Well, as we all know, that's what our lucky pal Scott just went through.

Today he got a little visit from the family of the 23 year old boy that was tragically killed in a car accident. Mom, Dad and all 3 brothers came to see Scott in the hospital. The son that lost his life was the youngest of 4 boys.
The oldest son told Scott that he can now be his new big brother.
That just brought tears to my eyes trying to imagine seeing the person that has his brothers heart still pounding in someone else's chest.
I'm still amazed how all this evolved from the beginning of this thread and even before that when Scott asked me what I thought he should do and I pushed him to get the transplant.. it all has happened so fast.
Today he's been moved again to a Hospital/Hotel just outside of Atlanta now (a bit closer to home) where he'll stay for a bit more observation before being released to go home in about a week.
What a difference a day makes!
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>This story makes me tear up every time I think of it !!! I think in a way this young man goes on living and its helping the family deal with his loss. Scott may have a really cool lifetime family of friends from this. Blessed you are --- Scott It couldn't have happened to a better person.
Nov 13, 2009 5:57 PM GMT
TheGuyNextDoor said
Today he got a little visit from the family of the 23 year old boy that was tragically killed in a car accident. Mom, Dad and all 3 brothers came to see Scott in the hospital. The son that lost his life was the youngest of 4 boys.
The oldest son told Scott that he can now be his new big brother.
That just brought tears to my eyes trying to imagine seeing the person that has his brothers heart still pounding in someone else's chest.
I had a child on the transplant list at 9 months old and knowing that some other child would have to die for him to receive a new liver tore me apart. Fortunately my son is a miracle child that was able to be taken off the list without the need for a transplant but emotionally this is a very difficult thing to go through and physically, well we all can imagine that. I hope that Scott can bond with the boy's family and also help them to heal knowing a part of their family lives on. Yay!
southernguy19... Posts: 4
Nov 13, 2009 9:36 PM GMT
Hi Guys I just want to say Thank you for all the kind words,all the emails,and all the phone calls most of all Thank you for caring and your friendship. I am doing better up walking now I am having no pain.I will write more later.
Scott
steltom Posts: 819
Nov 13, 2009 9:41 PM GMT
Glad to hear your doing well Scott.
Nov 13, 2009 11:06 PM GMT
Wow....Great to hear from you Scott....welcome back That's miraculous!
Nov 14, 2009 1:49 AM GMT
HOLY MACKEREL IT'S SCOTT!!!!!!!!!

*picks up dropped jaws* Man, you're fast!!!


Good for you, man, good for you!! Just you be careful and don't overdo things or we're coming down there to tie you down and restrain...well never mind, that might be a little too exciting just now.....
Nov 14, 2009 2:15 AM GMT
Great to have you back Brother!!!
We ALL were pulling for you big time. THANK YOU TONY!
A BIG HUG for you (oops, on second thought, a big WINK until later).

Donny
jprichva Posts: 4651
Nov 14, 2009 2:24 AM GMT
southernguy1961 saidHi Guys I just want to say Thank you for all the kind words,all the emails,and all the phone calls most of all Thank you for caring and your friendship. I am doing better up walking now I am having no pain.I will write more later.
Scott

Hey Scott,

Welcome back, guy! We are all so glad that you lived through that nightmare and are back up on your feet.

Warmest hugs
Jeff
FlBoy Posts: 4
Nov 14, 2009 2:46 AM GMT
TheGuyNextDoor said
zdrew saidThis is why we should all check that little box that says 'organ donor?' when we renew our driver's licenses.

I doubt I'll wait till it's time to renew my license to get that little box checked now that I have seen the importance up close and personal.
I'll be checking into it tomorrow...



I'm sure Tony's heart would come at a premium.. what's the price of gold these days?
Nov 14, 2009 8:22 AM GMT
Well, my going rate for Gold is free. Being nice like you Mr. J.,, always gets you all the Gold your two hands can carry...
baldone Posts: 280
Nov 15, 2009 6:37 PM GMT
what an awesome happy ending....i went and had my organ donor status changed this week....scott ..so glad you are up and around and feeling good..how great the family came to visit you.....am keeping you and other family in my prayers
Nov 16, 2009 4:22 AM GMT
That's great news, T...glad to hear your friend is doing so well.
southernguy19... Posts: 4
Nov 17, 2009 1:17 PM GMT
Hi Guys
Just wanted to say HELLO and Update everyone on how I am doing.My heart is doing great, the Doctor told me that I my get to home soon.I got so more test to do today.He said my heart is strong all the Blood is pumping great.I had a email as me why I had a bad heart.My dad and my brothers had Heart Disease so I got this from him.My Dad pass away from heart disease and both of my brother .I may have look very health on the outside but I was not on the inside.I am so Thankful, that I got a new heart and this is the reason, I am so Thankful this Thanksgiving for LIFE.
Scott

The Donor Family call me this morning and ask me to come and join them for Christmas dinner this year.This family is awesome they are so kind and very thoughtful.And I can see why they have two twin sons they are 28 years old and and middle son that is 26 it was the middle son ask me to be his brother.I told him I would this family is so sweet.


Nov 17, 2009 2:05 PM GMT
And those of us who were fortunate enough to get to know you well, are very thankful to that young boy who signed his donor card, allowing you a new chance at a long and healthy life....
Yes Scott, there is a lot to be Thankful for, this year and all the rest of your many years ahead.
XOX,
T.