Heartbeats and Happiness

This morning, I watched intently as the sonographer performed an echo test (echocardiogram) to view Geoff’s heart structure and how well it is working. One aspect of the test was to investigate whether the large lung tumor adjacent to the heart could be compromising any normal functions.

To my untrained eyes, seeing the ultrasound images of heart valves opening and closing and the ventricles strongly pumping was fascinating. The intricate examination of blood flow, size, shape and movement was soon complete. Meanwhile, Geoff had to lie facing away from the screen throughout the process patiently following intermittent instructions regarding his breathing. Praise God for the good report assuring us that Geoff’s heart is functioning well and moving freely, despite the proximity of the tumour.

Today being our firstborn son’s birthday, our family had organised a special dinner near the hospital hoping that I would be able to join in the occasion. With company for Geoff arranged, I was looking forward to the ‘respite’. This was our first family dinner to include both interstate families, our four grandchildren and our son in isolation on facetime. Of course it was the perfect time to share the optimistic news from the oncologist. A mixture of instantaneous joy and speechless incredulity soon became a wonderful time of celebration together.




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