Test results are in. The CT scan confirmed I have “fusiform aneurysmal dilatation of the ascending thoracic aorta at 5.0 cm. Mild coronary calcification.”

Fusiform means the aneurysm is all around the vessel, not just one side. Dilatation means enlarged.

I have no symptoms. Remember we had no idea in December 2024 that an aneurysm even existed in me. Only the echo-cardiogram in January 2025 brought it to light. What would our grandparents have done? Thinking they would just leave it alone. So far, 2025 has been a wild ride. I have decided that if the doctor suggests surgery I am going to refuse. The newest endovascular techniques that do not require open heart surgery have not been approved for the thoracic ascending aorta. They also have a high incidence of leakage.

What? I have no leakage now! So I have decided no heart surgery in my future. I turn 75 this year. Why would I put myself through that? The incision would be large and the recovery a bear. I already have fibromyalgia. I do not want to imagine how that would flare up with open heart surgery!!

When the doctor read the report he texted, “Ascending aorta measures 5.0 cm compared to 4.8 cm by prior CMR evaluation. We will continue to monitor closely for surgical timing. No intervention needed just yet. Will discuss further at our visit in September.”

News from the patient. He will have to talk long and hard to ever convince me to undergo open heart surgery. If the aneurysm bursts then the odds of death are high and rapid. Hopefully, not too painful, but we are talking death here.

Yes, there are many wonderful things the medical world can do. There are also some awful things like prolonging life when it might be more loving to just let someone go on to the arms of God. Mom always said she did not want to live as a vegetable. I do not want to be kept alive after my expiration date just because the medical world has found a way to prolong my time here.

I continue to pray for wisdom and guidance from the Lord.