And mine wants a new mitral valve.

But wait, you say. “Didn’t you just get a new valve?”

Yes, I did. Thanks for remembering. An aortic valve. Not quite seven months ago. And then two months after that, I had a lobe of my lung removed. It was (she says in her understated way) difficult.

The many doctors thought I could wait a few years to replace the mitral valve. But, the heart wants what it wants.

There’s a Hail Mary play going on—something about a balloon. But I’m pretty certain the upshot will be another open heart surgery. Time frame unknown.

I accept all well wishes, good vibes, prayers, whatever you’ve got on offer. And I send it right back to you.