Tom's kind and not so healthy heart..

It is perfect weather here in Berlin. The trees are green and full of blossoms and who would have thought that this city could have so many song birds? Tom and I enjoyed our walk today through the green park land near our home. As usual, our talks seem to focus on our new reality.

A friend (with cancer) described having a serious illss as a new reality. And indeed it is. Actually there have been two new realities for us. First, the intial diagnosis (in German) which included dealing with the medications and new (and, we hope, temporary) limitations. on Tom's life.

And now four weeks since he was discharged from the hospital another new reality. He has longer to wait for the procedure to shock his heart into rhythm and he cannot take the vacation we planned for the summer. (Turkey) But as Tom says..after disappointment comes acceptance. So we are dealing with a longer wait and the possibility of three heart procedures, rather than one. One for sure one is to shock it into rhythm. The other two are possible: to implant a device called Automaic Implantable Cardio-Defibrillator, and to do a biopsy to see if a virus caused the problem in the first place. We were not aware of the possiblity of the later two procedures basically because we couldn't read the document from the hospital. New realities! But, at least he can ride his bike now..but slowly.

The quality of health care here has been wonderful. Tom hated the hospital stay..but the 90 euro bill for 9 days there astounded us. It was so nice not having to worry about the medical procedures' cost when we had other worries. It is just such a huge releif. His medication has been almost free too..which is amazing, since he is taking 6 medications. We love his home doctor. Her office is two blocks from our apartment and she has called Tom after hours and even met with us in the evening to explain everything. She is kind, nurturing, and careful.

Tom's friends have provided support, positive thoughts and laughter. We needed some positive comments after what the German doctors were telling us. (they can be blunt!) Here are some of my favorite comments:

You are the most unlikely man I know to come down with ticker problems, I know how scary and debilitating they can be. It grabs you by the balls and gets your full attention. Makes for a big change in your life actions, thoughts and plans. Some have said it makes you act your age, but I think it just focusses your thoughts on what is possible, difficult and impossible.

This is, while truly scary, somethng you recover from. Love is the highest of human emaotions and your vulnerability brought out so much love from all of your friends.

It is hard to believe you could be anything but healthy. You are on everyone's mind and in our hearts.

Honestly I am at a loss for words. All I can say is I wil be thinking only the best of thoughts and sending all good energy to Tom and you as he goes through this treatment. Tom is a super strong guy and I have faith that he's got many more mountains to climb.

And then there is me and Greta, who adores Tom. We are loving each other big time..and looking forward to all being together the end of June when Greta will be here for 3 months.

Know that we appreciate our family and friends more than ever. Know that we are fine. Our spirits are good and we are enjoying Berlin. We look forward to new visitors the next few months. I wish I had more specifics to share, but the truth is that we ourselves do not know what is going to happen. So Tom is patiently following doctors orders (taking his meds, not running, staying out of the gym, only two to three beers a week) and keeping an incredibly positive outlook on things. I am proud of him!