Andrew and Kara had been living with Jim and I, in order to provide Andrew with the network of support he needed in those early days with his LVAD. By the end of March they were moving into their own apartment. Andrew's LVAD had become second nature. They are now in the process of buying their first house.
In April of 2012 Andrew recieved his first Defibrillator/Pacer which Drs. refer to as an additional insurance policy! On September 16th 2012 Andrew and Kara renewed their wedding vows, in what had been planned as their original ceremony, complete with a reception for 100 family members to join in celebrating their life and love ! They took their long awaited honeymoon a road trip cross country from Syracuse to San Francisco California and back in 3 weeks.
Just before leaving Andrew learned he was in atrial fibrillation at least half of the time, the plan was as long as he was feeling ok nothing would change until they returned from San Francisco. Fortunately the trip went off without a hitch and Kara and Andrew had the time of their lives. Unfortunately though when Andrew and Kara returned we learned he was in atrial fib all the time.
He went back to work but the a. fib was once again taking a toll. He was admitted in early November started on a new med and cardioverted. He still has been unable to return to work but remains out of a. fib and remains cancer free.
Andrew is an inspiration to everyone that knows
him. He continues to live life to the fullest.
I am blessed to be his Mom!
Crystal Gemmell