Another incredibly long post

So here's an update on Jason's situation.
Following all the crazy excitement that happened with his crazy heart last week, we went to see his cardiologist in order to figure out where we go from here. We were told that basically Jason's only option is to have an AV node ablation. An AV node ablation is where they go in and cauterize the AV node, rendering the heart unable to communicate between the atria and ventricles. This would leave Jason pacemaker dependent for the rest of his life.
I've done a lot of research this past week regarding this surgery, and it seems to me it would have a LOT of negatives associated with it. First off, it does not eliminate the problem (AFib and Aflutter), it merely eliminates the symptoms. In other words, Jason would still be having AFib and Aflutter, he just wouldn't feel it. Sounds ok, right?
Well no, not really. Atrial arrhythmias increase the risk of stroke by 5 times. So in order to combat the stroke risk, Jason would have to continue the Coumadin therapy he is currently on. Downside to Coumadin is that, if taken for long periods, it significantly increases the risk of heart attack. Oh just lovely! So basically what Jason's cardiologist is telling me is that they can't fix the problem, so they'll make his symptoms go away and eventually at some point down the road he'll have either a stroke or a heart attack. Just peachy!
I am not ready to accept this fate and have spent many hours the last week researching other doctors and other options. The procedure I feel would help Jason the most (yes, take it from "Dr. Jill") is known as a Mini-Maze surgery. The success rates are astounding. 85-90% of patients are cured of atrial fibrillation, according to follow up 3-6 months later. That's right - cured. Do you have any idea how incredible that would be?
There are greater risks associated with this surgery, because it is more invasive. But when Jason and I weigh the results against the risks, we feel it would be worth a shot.
I found a doctor who helped develop this Mini-Maze surgery right in Salt Lake. He is a renowned cardiothoracic surgeon, whose schedule is usually packed. I called and was told Jason could not be seen for a consult until June 3rd. Ugh! That feels like an eternity. So I mustered up the courage to call back and, well....beg. Surprisingly, I didn't have to. I told his front desk girl that we'd like to be seen sooner and she said she would ask the doctor if he was willing to come in on one of his off days. Long shot, right?
Well, I got a call this morning and Jason has an appointment next Thursday! Woo hoo! I better get started on writing down my one hundred million questions to ask the doctor....it might take awhile.
So here we go. I figure we should explore all of his options before making a decision. I am just hoping and praying at this point this doctor will have something hopeful and positive to say about Jason's prognosis. So everyone, say a little prayer with me. Maybe we'll get some good news!