And so we begin...

After arriving on late Friday evening, we began undertaking the boxes. Remember all the hours we spent at the hospital packing, packing,and packing? Well, we had two days to get it all unpacked and organized before surgery could begin. Two really long days on Saturday and Sunday spent unloading, stocking and storing... We are ready to go!
Bright and early Monday morning, the real work began. The first patient was Angelique, a gorgeous 29 year old mother of three. Angelique had a mitral valve replacement that went vey well. The second patient of the day was Annociatha, a 23year old girl who had a mitral valve replacement and a tricuspid repair. Her surgery was a little more challenging but went very well also. 

One of the highlights of the first day was a visit from an old friend Everiste. Everiste was the very first patient operated on during the trip last April. He had an aortic valve replacement and is doing beautifully. Such a nice surprise to see his handsome, smiling face. The we're lots of hugs and a few tears going around. He was so happy and proud to show off his success. Seeing his face when he shook hands and hugged his surgeon, Dr. Neil, was priceless! Everiste visited with Angelique in the CICU just as she was waking from her surgery. He also visited with Daniel, a surgical patient scheduled for Tuesday morning. Daniel is just 11years old and despite his brave face, he was very happy to have someone reassuring him, especially someone who spoke his language!

After two successful cases, we finished and headed to the hotel around 6pm, tired and happy. It wasn't too long before we were all nestled snug in our beds, visions of valves dancing in our heads.
(we are having some problems with internet, we'll get pictures uploaded when we can)