Justin’s Marfan Journey

My nephew, Justin, was diagnosed with Marfan’s Syndrome when he was 8 years old.   Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects the body’s connective tissue that holds all of the body’s cells, organs and tissue together. The aortic enlargement can be life threatening.    

 His aortic valve had to be replaced in 2002, when he was flown to Edmonton Alberta for the first surgery. Justin was doing well until 2012.  At that point his aorta was again enlarging and this time it was the entire aortic valve from the heart down to his abdomen. This again required a very long and scary surgery. But once again the amazing surgeons saved his life for a second time. 

Justin has been nicknamed, “Superman” and as well as “Just-in-credible” for his strength and courage to overcome all he hasgone through.  The road map of the scars on his body have earned him these nick names.

Well, it’s 2020 and the side effects of marfan syndrome reared it’s ugly head once again.   Justin has had several strokes and TIA’s and he is only 34 years old.  This time the aortic arch is enlarged and consequently life threatening and he has several aneurysms in the carotid arteries.  One in each of the carotid arteries in the neck and shoulders.  

This also make this surgery very risky, due to the carotid arteries all being enlarged.  Any of these aneurysms can rupture at any time now and during surgery.

On Wednesday, October 15, Justin will be transferred from hospital in Saskatoon to a hospital in Edmonton where a surgeon has taken in his case and will take him in for Surgery on October 17th. His mother Nancy will be there for the surgery, she is also his main caregiver. I willbe there to support my sister and nephew for a few days but Nancy will need to stay in Edmonton for several weeks, possibly longer, to be there with him. 

Nancy and Justin could use some help financially if at all possible.  She has no source of income during this trying time but still has bills and many other expenses that will be needed during this scary time.  

Any financial support that you could give would be greatly appreciated and if you are unable, please keep them in your prayers.