Roxanne's Heart

Update 5/13

Roxanne has now been in the hospital for 17 days. She has been to surgery a total of 4 times. Her chest is finally closed internally but the skin remains open with a wound vac. She continues to have fevers which are being treated with ice packs and Tylenol.

Roxanne remains on the ventilator and will most likely end up with a tracheostomy soon. She was on sedation and kept flat for 2 weeks. She can be moved more now which is much better for her lungs. Roxanne needs to be more awake and follow commands so the doctors can be confident that she can protect her own airway.

Roxanne's husban, Bill, has been able to work a shortened work week and split his time between Toled and Cleveland. Her mom, Jeanne, remains in Cleveland. Other family have been able to stay here and there.

Thank you again for your prayers and encouragement!

My sister, Roxanne Allen, has quite unexpectedly been admitted to The Cleveland Clinic for an extended admission. She originally was scheduled for surgery in Toledo to have her aortic valve replaced and repair an aneurysm on her ascending aorta on May 8th. Due to having increased symptoms the date was moved up to April 26th. Once in surgery it was decided that she needed a double bypass. After this was completed there was lack of movement on the left side of her heart which required the need for ECMO and balloon pump. This also meant that she needed a higher level of care.

We were fortunate to finally find an available bed for her at Cleveland Clinic, 2 hours from home. She was flown there on April 27th. She went back to OR on April 29th to have 3 of the 4 bypass sites moved. This allowed her to be taken off ECMO.

She remains critical, on the vent and balloon pump, her chest open, 3-5 cardiac drips, and multiple shocks for afib.

Today she goes to OR for the 4th time with hopes to close her chest.

Doctor's anticipate at least another month here in Cleveland if all goes well.

Since coming to Cleveland our mom, Jeanne, has been staying here in a hotel and plans to be here the duration of Roxanne's hospitalization. Roxanne's husband, Bill, has been able to work in Toledo half the week then back to the hotel in Cleveland. Myself and other family from Cincinnati and Virginia have been here as we can.

Friends have asked how to help and the most immediate need is funds for the hotel, gas, and food. As Roxanne's stay progresses, we can adjust what needs are.

We are so greatful for everyone's prayers and encouragement!!