James Jr. Warrior Heart Fund

On March 23, 2014, my son James, age 34, was admitted to Virginia Mason Hospital in Seattle, WA and was diagnosed with Bacterial Endocarditis. Endocarditis is a disease characterized by inflammation or infection of the inner surface of the heart (the endocardium). Endocarditis commonly affects heart valves. He had bacterial vegetation growing around the site of the infection. The bacteria eventually travelled down to his legs and feet. The doctor said he had a leaky valve that decreased the blood flow to his lower extremities. He had much difficulty standing on his own let alone walking without assistance. He started using a walker for a few days, then upgraded to a cane for about 1  1/2 weeks. His feet were in a lot of pain. He underwent 4 – 6 weeks of antibiotics to kill the bacteria by injecting the 6 different drugs by way of a pick line twice per day. On May 20, 2014, he will undergo open heart surgery to replace a valve. James is a healthy young man and loved to play Rugby. That reality is no longer an option. He was also promoting the Warrior Dash on July 19, 2014 and was going to participate. Now that will not happen. As a tribute and an honor to my son, I will actively participate in this event in his place. In any way I can, I would like to try and raise some money to help with the cost of the surgery. Please help if you can.

Thanks,

James R. Wagner Sr.