Progress, Progress, and More Progress

CaringBridge journal entry by Stephanie Fay

Good Evening, Everyone,

Nancy came off the ventilator by mid-afternoon.  She’s doing great with that — and her voice is nearly back to normal already.  About an hour ago they removed the balloon pump supporting her heart.  Also flying colors with that!  She’ll need to rest motionless and easy on her back for 6 hours while the insertion site heals.  Tomorrow morning, she’ll be able to get out of bed.  Yay!  Due to her remarkable recovery, she only spent around 60 hours on the ventilator — her shortest stint ever with that ol’ machine, as best I recall.

From what I’ve gleaned from the doctors so far today, she will likely remain in the cardiac ICU until at least Tuesday.  The Monday ablation is now up in the air.  The electrophysiologists are concerned they won’t be able to locate the area where the PVC originates because, yet again, it has completely disappeared.   And there are risks in trying to induce the PVCs, they say, including inadvertently starting another “storm.”  Ablation or otherwise, Nancy will get a NEW Fiona, most likely on Tuesday.  The battery life on Fiona the Defibrillator is under 6 months now.  High time for a new one!  And she will upgrade to one with two leads into the heart instead of the single lead she has now.  Both Nancy and I are relieved the new ICD will have several fresh years of battery life.  But will this one have a NEW name???  How about some suggestions, all you clever folks out there?  🙂

That’s it from here at the hospital this evening.  Nancy is just winding up a sweet phone conversation with her sweet Dad.  She’s off all pain medications now and having a few vivid though happy dreams when she dozes off.   I’m asking the universe and all interested parties for a calm and restful night of sleep for my sweet bride tonight.

And the same to all of you out there following along.  Nancy wants me to read to her from these Caring Bridge posts now.  A fine and fun way to bring this astounding day to a calm close. 

Much love from Nancy and Stephanie

____________________

Nancy M. | Dec 15, 2019
So happy to hear that Nancy is doing so well! What a time she has had. She has a great support system with you and all of her family surrounding her with love. What an important part of recovery: Being surrounded by loved ones. Know that Chris and I are keeping you in our hearts. 

Su S. | Dec 15, 2019
Here’s a name suggestion: Cordelia. Cordelia is a feminine given name. … The name is of uncertain origin. It is popularly associated with Latin cor (genitive cordis) “heart”, and has also been linked with the Welsh name Creiddylad, allegedly meaning “jewel of the sea”, but it may derive from the French coeur de lion “heart of a lion”. 

Michelle F. |Dec 15, 2019
So glad to hear she is off the ventilator; those look scary, but of course we are grateful for such equipment. A name that comes to mind for the new one is Frida. 

José M. | Dec 14, 2019
So happy to hear that progress is being made. My thoughts are with you both everyday for a speedy, healthy recovery. Sending you both virtual, energy-filled hugs!

Colleen A. | Dec 14, 2019
Fabulous news!!!

Hanna E. | Dec 14, 2019
P.S. Regarding the new name: Panacea, goddess of the cure by medicines and salves. Love,Hanna

Amy B. | Dec 14, 2019
Thanks for these updates. I’m so glad Nancy’s situation continues to improve. Thinking of you both and sending love from Northfield. Regarding the new name: Maybe something Norse this time around…How about Frigg?

Patricia S. | Dec 14, 2019
Such good news, you two!! The prayers and good vibes are still coming your way. They’re sent with bunches of love and hugs from us!! 💕💕💕 

Susan D. | Dec 14, 2019
So relieved and thrilled to hear this good news. Very happy for you both. Every day I ask the Universe to guide you and keep you both safe. I am kind of liking Scarlett for a name. Some fierce beauties did that name proud. Sending all love to you both, always.

Barbara T. | Dec 14, 2019
Nancy you are one strong woman with a legion of followers. You are missing another arctic blast. Hope they find the spot Fiona doesn’t like. I vote for Charlotte, one determined heroine.

Debra T. | Dec 14, 2019
I’m glad Nancy is improving. And much faster than anticipated? How great! Thanks for the updates. As far as a name for the new Fiona, in keeping with the hard F sound, perhaps Pheobe. Or, some dictionaries say a meaning of Cora is “heart”. Greetings to you & Nancy. 🧡💜💛💚💙

Kari O | Dec 14, 2019
Sean let me know what was going on, so I read up on the latest and greatest adventures. I am so sorry that you are going through this. It sounds like things are heading exactly where they need to go, which is back to a normal and healthy Nancy with a device that is doing its job calmly and quietly in the background. As you well know, Greg and I are also members of the club. It sucks. You never know when it will happen or even if it will happen. And in your case, in what state or country it will happen! Reading your posts, Steph, it reminded me so much of all the positives. It reminded me that you can find joy anywhere if you have the right people with you. And that you can have joy in life despite not knowing what happens next. Thank you so much for that! Much love and hugs from Kari, Greg, and twins
PS, Greg will no doubt be formulating a sassy comment once he gets up to speed on the latest posts, stay tuned!

Vicki O. | Dec 14, 2019
Good Morning, Great to hear of Nancy’s progress. You’re both in my thoughts and prayers.

Deborah P. | Dec 14, 2019
Good Morning you two! Such impressive progress. I’m grateful for your spunk and resilience. I’m thinking the name RITA MAE might fit. As in Rita Mae Brown (strong, smart, funny, tough and won’t take any crap. ) I’m retreating in silence today at Shambala Center. You can bet I will hold you as my dear one. 🙏💕

Jeanne E. | Dec 14, 2019
We are so glad to hear things are progressing so well and so quickly. How nice that “Fiona” gets to retire after time well-served.
Jeanne and Jerry

Pamela I. | Dec 14, 2019
My dear Nancy, you really are a Wonder Woman and I couldn’t think of a better name than Xena for your new device. But it will be fun to hear other suggestions and final answer. Keep moving forward; won’t walking feel marvelous!! Stephanie thanks for the prompt updates, I eagerly anticipate reading these and wrapping prayers around your words. Sending my love to you both.

Kari D. | Dec 14, 2019
Yay! Thanks for the update!

Betsy E. | Dec 14, 2019
For the new defibrillator, how about Xena, as in Xena, Warrior Princess? Because that is the first thing that came to mind when I thought of Nancy and her journey with her heart issues. Love to you both, Betsy

Mary C. | Dec 14, 2019
So happy to hear the good news!

Ann D. | Dec 14, 2019
Atta way, Nancy!! Show ’em how it’s done! So happy that you are making great progress. You’ll feel so good when you can get up and walk around again! No running! ♥️😊🤗

Maria K. | Dec 14, 2019
Way to go, Nancy! Team KellyLargenKelvakis is rooting for you!

Lynn K. | Dec 14, 2019
Great news. Thank you.

Liv D. | Dec 14, 2019
So happy to read the good news! How about Flo as the new name?

Denise S. | Dec 14, 2019
Yay, all this news sounds good. Will keep up the prayers for a smooth ICD update. Rest and get stronger.

Terry K. | Dec 13, 2019
Hi Nancy and Stephanie. So happy you are improving! You are so brave ! You are so often in our thoughts and prayers and conversations and you have many cousins cheering you on! You are very much loved!
❤️Terry

Sandi P. | Dec 13, 2019
She’s a tough nut alright! So glad things are going well and she is on the road to recovery. We’ll continue to keep you both in our thoughts and prayers.

Recovery Road

CaringBridge journal entry by Stephanie Fay

Hello again all,

Nancy’s tour of large American city Cardiac ICUs continues…  and she, once again, is on the her remarkable road to recovery.  Although she is still supported by the balloon pump in her heart and the ventilator, her trajectory today, according to the various doctors rounding on her and her main nurse (Erin), has been only positive.

She’s been busy writing to all of us here on a small whiteboard, her clever sense of humor and pure joy in life visibly intact.  It’s a sight to behold!

Here’s the current plan.  The electrophysiocardiologist (EP doc) wants to do an ablation on Monday to eliminate the PVC that is the precursor to Nancy’s device storms.  His lab is over at the main hospital at the University of WASHINGTON, and so the plan is to move her from Harborview over to that hospital later today or tomorrow.  Meanwhile, Nancy’s main job is to continue her recovery.  So one step at a time here.  But things are looking up, and I’m feeling quite positive and hopeful.  

Thanks for all of your sweet and supportive replies!  Once she’s more alert, we will enjoy reading your responses together.  Nancy will so enjoy reading them (and replying!) when she’s able to use her computer again.    

Tina and Jess are here again today, of course.  Nancy’s brother Jeff drove up from southern Washington and stayed with Nancy at the hospital overnight last night.  My sister Elaine and brother Bradley flew in from Arizona last night as well.  And Andreas and Greta (the newlyweds!) flew in this morning.  And Nancy’s longtime friend Kari Lipke paid an afternoon visit as well.  All such wonderful people who show up for us over and over again.  We are grateful!!!

Much love to all!   Nancy & Stephanie

____________________

Joan L. | Dec 13, 2019
We met at the wedding last weekend (I am Chrissie’s high school friend from So CA), and are all on the Nancy team! Lots of prayers and good wishes for restored health and good healing are being sent toward Seattle, Nancy, and hugs all around for your family and loved ones there supporting you. ❤️

Mark & Barb E. | Dec 13, 2019
Sorry to hear the trouble you’re having but glad things are improving. Sounds like you’ll be out of the hospital soon. Hugs!

Denise S. | Dec 13, 2019
Sending prayers and thinking of you. Much love to you both.

Kelly K. | Dec 13, 2019
So glad to her your on your way to recovery Nancy! Keep up the good work and I will continue to send you healing thoughts, prayers, and hugs.

Susan H. | Dec 13, 2019
Much relieved about Nancy’s progress. Love and prayers to you both.

Kim H. | Dec 13, 2019
Great news! You all will remain in my thoughts and prayers for a great recovery!

Jonathan O | Dec 13, 2019
So glad that Nancy is recovering, that you are surrounded by love, and that you are in the care of excellent professionals. Sending love and thoughts of healing. May the procedure go smoothly and effectively. Much love!

Nancy H. | Dec 13, 2019
Tremendous news! Continue to heal and be well. Hugs to both of you – love Nancy and Jody

Judith T. | Dec 13, 2019
So glad to hear that you have so much love and support there for you both! Sending virtual hugs and prayers!

Jeanne E. | Dec 13, 2019
Thank you so much for the beautifully written update. Everything is so well-explained, with warmth and gratefulness in every word. How can I will Nancy strength, patience and humor when she has so much of her own?

I met Nancy in the 1980s and early ‘90s at St. Olaf College. My sons, Jacob and Noah, were born at about the same time as Andreas and Tina. I remember what they felt like in my arms. Though we moved to Philadelphia (Go Eagles!) and now Boston, we cherished Nancy’s Xmas letters and admired her pioneering work on Norwegian language textbooks. Through the years, we enjoyed reading FB updates too. Her humor, gentle wisdom, kindness, and love of family were always evident.

In a kind of coincidence, Nancy had her first heart incident a few months after I had one. (A sudden and traumatic—to me—need for an aortal valve replacement.) When I read those 2016 CaringBridge reports of her recovery, as beautifully written as these, I knew it was the same Nancy I had known. You are blessed to have her and she, to have all of you.

Right now, I can hear the happy and kindly laugh, which made our every Northfield, MN gathering a better one, just as I see her beating every last one of us at Scrabble. These sometimes happened concurrently. Did I mention we also admired her brains?

Love,
Jeanne (and Jerry), Jacob & Noah

Kari L. | Dec 12, 2019
So loved seeing you today, Nancy — especially the twinkle in your eye. ❤️

Eric S. | Dec 12, 2019
Awesome news. Thanks for keeping us updated!

Liz H. | Dec 12, 2019
Good, good news. Nancy, you are resilient! You are loved. ♥️

Ann D. | Dec 12, 2019
Very encouraging news 😊. Sending love and healing thoughts.

Stephanie F. | Dec 12, 2019
U of Washington is where she is moving, NOT Minnesota.

Su S. | Dec 12, 2019
Hi Steph- thanks for the good news! I’m really glad you and Nancy are surrounded by family and friends. More prayers and healing thoughts on the wing.

Andrea G. | Dec 12, 2019
Love to you both. Praying for Nancy’s road to recovery. I am thinking about you so much and wish I could give you both a huge hug… sending them from afar. Love, Andrea ❤️

Vicki O. | Dec 12, 2019
Hi Steph, sorry to hear about this. We just got back to AZ. The best to you and Nancy. Keep us posted.

Maria K. | Dec 12, 2019
I can visualize Nancy writing little quips on that white board. Her bravery (and Stephanie’s!) continues to amaze me. If you have to travel a rocky road, how wonderful to have your team fall in with back up and so much love. You got this, Nancy, and we gots you!♡♡♡

Kit H. | Dec 12, 2019
I’m so relieved to hear this. I’ve been thinking about all of you and sending my love. Kit

Susan D. | Dec 12, 2019
My goodness, dear friends. Soon you will be enjoying the sun in southern California I hope that day comes quickly. You are both in my prayers and in my thoughts. with love always, susan

Michelle F. | Dec 12, 2019
Does this mean you are flying to MN and when? Thank you for keeping us updated. You have both been on my mind and heart all day! Love you!

Liv D. | Dec 12, 2019
Absolutely delighted about the positive news!

Robin K. | Dec 12, 2019
Such positive news. Hoping the progress continues. Love you both tons!!!

Pamela I. | Dec 12, 2019
Really good news. Give Nancy and yourself a loving hug from me. That woman is a wonder! BTB Claire’s “train car” for a class project had the Wonder Woman logo drawn on it. The train to recovery.

Mary Ellen E. | Dec 12, 2019
You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care Nancy.

Hanna E. | Dec 12, 2019
Thank you for the positive update! I am happy to hear she is in good spirits, and will continue to send positive healing thoughts. Love to you both!

Nancy’s Back in Cardiac ICU – This Time in Seattle

CaringBridge journal entry by Stephanie Fay 

Dear Friends and Family,

Nancy and I arrived in Seattle yesterday morning to attend the Cardiac Arrest Survival Summit (google it — awesome conference!).  After a wonderful and busy weekend celebrating Andreas and Greta’s wedding in Minneapolis this past weekend, followed by a day of packing on Monday and a morning of flying on Tuesday, we were both looking forward to a long, solid night of sleep last night.  About an hour into that, around 11 PM, Fiona (N’S internal defibrillator} fired yet again.  We came by ambulance to Harbourview Hospital in Seattle, just a mile from our hotel in downtown Seattle.  

It was a chaotic and scary night of Fiona firings (40+) and other medical instabilities, including 20 minutes of CPR after Nancy “coded” in the cardiac ICU here around 2:30 AM.  But they brought her back.  Her vitals were unstable off and on after that.  Around 10 AM she went down to the cath lab for testing (still zero heart disease/blockages), and they inserted a balloon pump to support her heart and help it rest and recover.  She had one of these pumps for about 24 hours during her initial arrests in Minnesota in 2016.  She’s more stable now this afternoon.  She’s intubated and sedated but can respond to our Yes / No questions when we wake her up a little.  The shocks were not the least bit fun for her but hopefully they gave her meds that will help her forget most of them.  All other times she’s nodded “Yes” when I ask her, “Are you comfortable?”  

Nancy’s daughter Tina lives here in Seattle and has been down at the hospital since this morning.  Her spouse Jessica is also here.  We have additional family arriving later tonight and tomorrow.  Both Nancy and I are grateful for this “on the ground” support. 

From all we hear, this hospital has a sterling reputation.  My sense is she’s in extremely capable hands.  Hopefully, like her other “events,” she has rounded the recovery bend and is making her way back to health — and to us.  Let’s all hold that thought and prayer out there together, shall we?

Thanks for all the love and support.  As always.  Every time.

Love, Nancy & Stephanie 

____________________

Jen R. | Dec 13, 2019
Holding Nancy and you in my prayers.  

Kirk & Jill W-M. | Dec 12, 2019
So sorry to hear about this, but glad that Nancy is on the road to recovery! Sending all good thoughts your way. We’ll keep watching for more good news. ❤️

Shelly G. | Dec 12, 2019
I’m so sorry to hear that Nancy is going through this again. Sending hugs and prayers her way!! 🙏🏼💜

Maureen R. | Dec 12, 2019
Steph and Nancy,
So sorry, lots of hugs and healing prayers coming your way.
Your cousin,
Maureen

Pat H. | Dec 12, 2019
I will be keeping all of you in my thoughts! You are in good hands. Speedy recovery, Nancy!

Linda S. | Dec 12, 2019
Stay strong, you two! You are in a good place. Thinking of you both.
Love, Linda and Spence

Liv D. | Dec 12, 2019
Thinking of you both and praying that this “event” will soon be over. All the best to the two of you.

Patricia S.| Dec 12, 2019
Sending love and God’s strength to both of you! We are so glad you are safe in an exceptional hospital with strong medical support. Please know we are hugging you virtually and praying!
Roger and Pat

Jennifer B. | Dec 12, 2019
Prayers for healing and peace…💕

Lynda H. | Dec 12, 2019
I’m so sorry to hear you’re going through this again, but glad that there are good hospitals around when needed. Sending positive thoughts and hugs your way. Lynda

Roberta S. | Dec 12, 2019
I’m so sorry that you have to go through this, but glad that you can face it together and be surrounded by family and excellent medical care.
I’m keeping warm thoughts! Love, Roberta

Ann D. | Dec 12, 2019
Constant positive energy being sent your way for a good recovery. I’m so glad she is at a well-renowned hospital in a city where family lives. Hugs and love to you both. Ann

Martha M. | Dec 12, 2019
You said it to me just the other day, Nancy is a miracle! I am sending my love to you and Nancy and Tina and Jessica.

Penny F. | Dec 12, 2019
Dear Nancy and Steph. We are in Havana now for 3 months with Anne & family. We hope you are recovering at Harborview. Will follow your progress here on Caringbridge.
Stor klem
Penny, Kjetil, Anne & Ingela😎😍

Allen Z. | Dec 12, 2019
The two of you, Nancy and Stephanie, are an inspiration. A delightful couple. Phyllis and I enjoy watching your interaction with folks in the Pilgrim Lutheran community. You are kind, gentle, and show that you truly care for others. We wish you the best as you work through these medical issues.

Nancy H. | Dec 12, 2019
Sending lots of healing energy and hugs to both of you.

Sveinung S. | Dec 12, 2019
We’re so sorry to hear about this new event. We trust that you will both pull through. Love from Norway.

Shelley P.| Dec 12, 2019
Nancy is in our prayers for a full recovery. You truly are at an excellent facility. May you both soon get that desired good night of rest. Much love 💕

Kris D. | Dec 12, 2019
Gus and I are sending love and every ounce of good energy to you and Nancy.

Liz H. | Dec 12, 2019
Our love to you all. Take good care.

Jonathan O.| Dec 12, 2019
Sending you both love and great big hugs (but very gentle ones for Nancy). Holding you in my heart with thoughts of healing and strength. We love you.

Sarah M. | Dec 12, 2019
Isaac, Olivia, and I are sending you both our love and support. We wish Nancy a swift recovery and look forward to seeing you both soon. We miss you!

Anne S. | Dec 12, 2019
Yes, I’ll hold on very tightly to that thought and prayer! Sending so much love!!

Tim B. | Dec 11, 2019
Good luck! Hang in there.

Kathy O. | Dec 11, 2019
So sorry to hear that Nancy is back in the hospital! So scary for both of you. I’m glad Tina and Jessica are able to be with you and Nancy. It’s good you were so close to Harbourview also. Prayers for a quick recovery.

Jan E. | Dec 11, 2019
Please let Nancy know we are all here for you both. Love and hugs for a speedy recovery.

Sean H.O. | Dec 11, 2019
I’m so sorry to hear about this. I’m thinking about you, Nancy. Hope you recover soon.

Kris G. | Dec 11, 2019
As important as Fiona is, I want to give her a most stern scolding right now. That is just something else.
We’re thinking of you both, along with your families near and far. Take care.

Debra T. | Dec 11, 2019
Thanks for letting us know. Hoping for a rapid and complete recovery.

Diane L. | Dec 11, 2019
You and Nancy are in my prayers tonight.

Joan H. | Dec 11, 2019
I am so sorry to read! So glad so much love is surrounding you both! Sending healing prayers and Advent blessings.

Patti P. | Dec 11, 2019
Sending prayers and peaceful thoughts for recovery and health!

Helene M. | Dec 11, 2019
Thinking of you both and sending thoughts and prayers.

Marcia S.-S. | Dec 11, 2019
What a scary night for you both. Please know you’re in my thoughts and prayers.

Keith H. | Dec 11, 2019
I will mention you all in the prayers of the people at Solor Lutheran Church on this Sunday – prayers for recovery and return to health. But, I’m not waiting until Sunday, you will be prayed for from now on until then. Blessings! And, I’m thankful you are in a good place with lots of helpers to guide you through this ordeal.

Marsha F. | Dec 11, 2019
I am holding you both in the light and trusting that there will again be a strong recovery. Good to know that you are in a fine hospital with family nearby during such a stressful ordeal. Thank you for staying in touch.

Kim H. | Dec 11, 2019
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I send hugs filled with energy and health!

Gloria B. | Dec 11, 2019
Thoughts, prayers, positive energy. Wishing for the best care possible for Nancy!

Mary B.-J. | Dec 11, 2019
Sending all the strength and courage I have in my heart. Love to you both!

Deb F. | Dec 11, 2019
Thanks for letting your Pilgrim friends know about Nancy’s latest challenges. Prayers for both of you.

Su S. | Dec 11, 2019
Oh, Steph, I can’t imagine what you’ve been through emotionally. Thank you for sharing this information. I’m praying for Nancy and you, and everyone tending to her (and you, I hope).

Jeanne E. | Dec 11, 2019
Jerry and I are so sorry to hear. I’m glad things are under control and hope Nancy is as comfortable as possible. She is really a trooper. 🙏🏼

Claudia B. | Dec 11, 2019
Thinking of you and saying prayers. Good you and Tina and others are with Nancy now. May our thoughts and best wishes give you all strength.

Susan D. | Dec 11, 2019
Stephanie, I am so glad Nancy is with you. Hoping for a quick recovery. All my thoughts and prayers are with you. And so much love too.

Sandi P. | Dec 11, 2019
Our thoughts and prayers are with you both.

Kathy T. P. | Dec 11, 2019
Oh, no! Sending all best wishes for skilled doctors and nurses, and peace to all caring for Nancy.

Brandon F. | Dec 11, 2019
Thinking of you and hoping for a quick recovery!
Love, Brandon

Robert E. | Dec 11, 2019
Best wishes for a complete recovery!

Carl H. | Dec 11, 2019
Hugs to you and prayers for you all!

Betsy A. | Dec 11, 2019
Hi Steph-
Thanks for the update. You both looked GREAT this past weekend & we are hoping for a speedy recovery for Nancy. Love, Betsy & Peteh

Michael S. | Dec 11, 2019
Hang in there. You are both in my prayers.

Bobbi B. | Dec 11, 2019
So sorry hear this. Keeping you all in my thoughts. Speedy recovery.

Roberta L. | Dec 11, 2019
Hugs and prayers for another speedy recovery. It was great to see both of your beautiful smiles this weekend! Glad you are close to family in Seattle.

Hanna E. | Dec 11, 2019
Dear Nancy, Stephanie and Family,
I am thinking of you and sending healing thoughts ❤️

Lynn D. | Dec 11, 2019
Dear Nancy, Stephanie and Families,
I sending you all love and healing thoughts. Thank you for keeping us posted on Nancy’s progress. I will be keeping you all in my heart during this difficult time.

Dolores P. | Dec 11, 2019 
Nancy & Stephanie & Families,
I am so sorry to hear this. I’m holding you in my heart and am sending all good wishes your way. I wish there were more I could do.

Jane S. | Dec 11, 2019
Gosh, so sorry to hear this. Will be sending love and prayers out for both of you.

Felicity E. | Dec 11, 2019
Thinking of you both very specially💖

Kari L. | Dec 11, 2019
Let me know if y’all need or want a pastoral visit.

Pat S. | Dec 11, 2019
Thinking of you and wishing for the best… Glad your siblings are coming. Please keep giving us updates!! Much love

Eric S. | Dec 11, 2019
Love you both.

Dana W. | Dec 11, 2019
Thanks so much for this update. So, so sorry. Very scary. I am just south of Seattle and if there is anything you need, please let us know! Harborview is an excellent hospital.

Pete N. | Dec 11, 2019
Thank you for the update. Heal up!

Jason M. | Dec 11, 2019
Get well soon, Nancy! It’s scary when Fiona gets crabby. All the good thoughts are coming your way…

Mary M. | Dec 11, 2019
Praying for you all!

Connie F. | Dec 11, 2019
Oh, my heart nearly stopped when I saw that there was a post for Nancy. Prayers of healing, courage and comfort for all of you.