Dear Teresa, thank you for your continued kind thoughts. It means a great deal to me.

I was told that the less invasive (stent) procedure is not an option. I do not know why. I suspect it may be due to my BMI.

It certainly was frustrating to worry about being approved for the CTA. I am unable to tolerate a traditional or pharmaceutical stress test so this CAT scan ordered by my cardiologist is vital to being cleared for surgery.

I do not yet know how long my anticipated hospital stay will be. I am meeting with my vascular surgeon on the 24th and expect to get the details.

I live alone and am cautiously optimistic about being able to recuperate on my own for the most part. My son and my brothers will be available to come by. Although both brothers offered for me to recover at their homes I prefer to be at my own and deeply hope that this is realistic.

Thank you again. It truly helps to communicate with someone who understands and I am sincerely grateful.