A Message from the Heart

By Bob Mandala

Marnie has been waiting for a new heart for most of her life. She just hasn't been in the right place at the right time. Abby has always been eager to help others when called upon to do so. She is given the opportunity much sooner than any of her family, friends, or colleagues expect and the shock is almost unbearable. When one family's sorrow collides with another's limitless joy, everyone's life is changed forever.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Jun 19, 2019
• ISBN: 9780359739301

Book preview

A Message from the Heart

A MESSAGE FROM THE HEART

BY BOB MANDALA

Copyright 2019 © by Bob Mandala

All rights reserved 2019

Bob Mandala

[e-mail]

ISBN # 978-0-359-7390-1

This is a work of fiction.  Names, characters, business, events and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination.  Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Chapter 1    Russ

"I

t all happened so fast. One minute we were the happiest, most loving, comfortable couple I knew – and the next, well, it's hard to put into words. We were out shopping for our kids' Christmas gifts, when Abby grabbed my arm and said she couldn't catch her breath, again. But this time it was different. She looked flushed, and her balance was obviously off. I immediately suggested the Emergency Room or at least Urgent Care, but Abby just wanted to go home. She could barely make it up the two steps to our front door. Normally, she could jump those stairs with grocery bags in tow, without a second thought. Abby was far more in shape than I was and I was concerned that it was more than the stress of the holidays, upcoming parties, parents' visits, and planning for our 25th wedding anniversary trip. I knew she was starting to get concerned but was still adamant that nothing was to interrupt all that was going on. I would get the look if I even appeared to be thinking what she knew I was, in fact, thinking. She could read me like a book.

I didn't push because I knew how that would play out. I am married to a powerful and beautiful woman, inside and out, who has been by my side through thick and thin. I'm the thick, and she's the thin" in that scenario. I've always been the one who we both knew was the most likely to have heart issues. My weight has always been a concern for both of us. Full disclosure: I haven't always been very disciplined in my quest for a healthy lifestyle. But, my visits to the doctor haven’t been an issue either, so far. Abby, on the other hand, could be a poster woman for any fitness or lifestyle magazine around, published or online. She eats healthy, exercises regularly, and manages to get sufficient rest amongst all of the activities she is involved with. She even turned a hobby into an emerging small business because of her great eye for personal style, home décor, and what is a welcoming atmosphere for a business office.

So needless to say we were both shocked when Abby's GP referred her to a cardiologist for further testing. That was in January. I had strongly urged that she see her GP as early in the year as possible. I didn't get an argument, which meant that Abby was concerned as well. In addition to the shortness of breath, and increased heart rate, Abby had developed a relatively regular, non-productive cough for no apparent reason. She had never been a smoker. Now, with the referral, our concern had officially been elevated to a degree of fear, stopping way short of hysteria. Anyone who has known us would know that we don't do hysteria. We both tackle issues, concerns, and most fears with a calmness reserved for mountain lakes, clergymen, and most piano teachers. Dr. Franklin had tried to allay those fears by explaining that the combination of Abby's symptoms contributed to a need for a specialist's opinion. Better to be safe. Dr. Winters' office was nearby so it was convenient to meet there on appointment after a conference call I had and Abby was completing a business office décor job that wasn't more than 10 minutes away. We normally would not go to each other's doctor appointments, but this was unchartered territory for both of us. I'll just meet you there, Russ.

Although we trusted Dr. Franklin's opinion for a specialist, we did some online research about Dr. Winters and her practice. The doctor’s specialties appeared to be issues of heart failure, advanced heart failure, and congestive heart failure. That’s a lot of failure! She was associated with a well-known practice in the area and reviews of her results and bedside manner were spotless. As was her office and her appearance when we arrived. I immediately hoped Dr. Winters wasn't afraid to go deep into helping us find a solution to Abby's particular problem rather than taking the most common route to effective treatment. I wondered if Abby was thinking the same thing as we rose to greet Dr. Winters.

Chapter 2     Russ

W

ith Dr. Winters being the no-nonsense person that she apparently is, we got right down to business, and that was fine with me.

"Let's go right to the good news, shall we? It appears that you do not have a heart failure-related problem. Dr. Franklin was correct in sending you over to me because of the combination of symptoms, but the testing we do zeros in on specific tissues, not just the organs. So it's not your heart, however, it does appear to be your lungs.

Abby seemed confused and said, Good news, I think? Based on how I have been feeling, I was sure it had to be my heart, and I have been terrified. 

"Sweetheart, I'm happy it's not your heart, but, isn't a lung issue pretty serious stuff? I had directed this question to Dr. Winters as much as to Abby. Although I run a non-profit and I'm not a doctor, the anatomy basics aren't entirely lost on me.

You're correct, Mr. Burns.   

Call me Russ, please.

Lung issues can be severe and in some cases, just as life-threatening as heart concerns. The heart may be our life pump, but the lungs keep that pump functioning. No oxygen from the lungs and the heart stops beating. But, the opposite works as well – no pumping heart means no oxygenated blood for circulation. In my opinion, this is the human body's most important relationship.  

Abby's face had the look of concern once again – the good news was short-lived. I felt the same way but was trying to be strong for her. We both said, Where do we go from here?

A common trait of our marriage – the one voice thing.

Good to see you are both on the same page, Dr. Winters continued, smiling. I think the most immediate course of action is to get you to a specialist in lung disease diagnosis and treatment."

I winced at the term disease.

Dr. Winters continued. I know that the most common symptoms of Interstitial Lung Disease are shortness of breath and a non-productive cough – both symptoms that caused Dr. Franklin to refer you to me.

We have a specialist in our Group – Dr. Clark, and I would be happy to make sure you get an appointment soon. The sooner you get started with further diagnosis and treatment, the better chance you have of successful management of the problem. I'll contact him this afternoon if that is okay with you, Abby? I'd like you to see him as soon as possible.

Abby and I looked at each other and nodded. Definitely, she said. The sooner, the better.  

As we walked out of Dr. Winters' office, we were quiet – each absorbing what we had heard during the appointment, with a mix of optimism and concern for the future. Abby may have had a momentary and deep-seated fear of the unknown, but if I know Abby, it would be short-lived and confined to the ride home.

Can I offer you a lift? I know you have your car here, but I thought you might want some company. 

No. But, thanks, honey. I just need those few minutes to get a handle on what I just heard and adjust my mindset from the fatal heart to manageable lungs scenarios. I understand that they are both very weighty problems, but I sure thought heart problems sounded a lot worse. Now, I'm not so sure. My head is spinning a bit.  

Are you sure I can't drive you? 

No. Really. I'm good. I'll see you at home in a few minutes.  

I need to stop at the hardware store for a few minutes, first. I want to get what I need to fix the bathroom sink.  

All that about my own plumbing inspired you?

Again, she knows me like a road map. Indeed, it did. Love you, sweetheart.   I gave her a quick but still important kiss.

Love you, too. And thanks for today. It really helped to have you there.  

Those were the last words I ever heard Abby say.

Chapter 3    Russ

I

was almost to my car when I heard the screech of tires, and that undeniable sound of cars crashing and my first thought was – Oh my God, it's Abby! - I ran as fast as I could towards the sounds while trying to dial 911 at the same time.

911 – what is your emergency?  

My wife – there's been a car crash – I…

Sir, what is your name and where are you?  

Russ. Russ Burns. I'm running towards the sound of the accident. I don't know where it is - near the medical building near the hospital. I can't remember the street names. I …  

Mr. Burns. We have others calling about the same accident. Do you have anyone with you?  

No. It was just my wife and I. A doctor appointment, and then we went to our cars. Oh my God. Abby!   

Mr. Burns? And then again - Mr. Burns? Nothing. All the 911 operator could hear was noise in the background. Then a muffled, Abby! Abby! Oh my God. Abby! And then the sounds of sirens in the distance. The 911 operator hung up and said a little prayer for Mr. and Mrs. Burns for a good outcome, but it so rarely happened.

She was lying in the street. I heard sirens, but they still seemed so far away. I cradled her head in my lap. I know you're not supposed to move anyone in this kind of situation – but – I couldn't let her lay there like that. Peripherally, I could sense people gathering but leaving an acceptable distance between us. Strangers can be so kind.

I heard someone say, It sounds like help is very close now. Is anyone a doctor here? Silence. Hold on, Mister. Help is coming.

I would never see that person's face. I didn't know if it was a man or a woman quite honestly. But, I will always remember the sound of their voice and the comfort in their words.

Sir? Sir? Do you know what happened? A different voice. An authoritative voice.

No, I don’t. I was on the way to my car, over, there. I pointed in no particular direction. I knew it was Abby. I just knew it. I ran over here and found her in the street.  

Sir, please let us get in there and see what we can do.

I couldn’t let go. I just couldn’t let go. Oh, Abby. My tears were dripping on her check.

Chapter 4    Russ

"T

hank you all for coming. I know many of you came long distances to share in the celebration of Abby's life – a life that was cut way too short. Tyler, Madison and I are so grateful that the people that Abby loved and shared her life with are here, even though, quite honestly, we would much rather be anyplace else. As I look out and see your faces, I see those who have known Abby since she was born, a few that she just met not long ago and lots from in between. Abby has - huh, always had - a keen ability to develop friendships that lasted a very long time. Even if the connection was short, she was sincere and made everyone feel welcomed, valued and appreciated. Abby was the love of my life, a caring daughter and an exceptional Mom. Our son, Tyler wants to tell you in his own words."  

As I changed places with our 15-year-old son, we stopped and hugged each other for a long time. Up to this point, I would not have called him an overly sensitive kid, but he was very close to Abby. He was quietly crying and said he wasn't sure he could do this. I told them to just speak to me, without concern for the others there and speak from the heart. Tyler made it to the podium - looked out at the crowd - zeroed in on my face - and began.

I love my Mom. She was always smiling, and she was kind. My friends told me that they wished their Moms were more like mine. Huh - maybe I shouldn't have said that. But it's true. They did. I would see my Mom talking to one of my friends in the kitchen, or on the patio. I know they were asking her for advice about things they didn't think they could talk to their own parents about. Most of the time I didn't think a whole lot about it, but now, I wish my Mom were more like theirs - here – now - with us - so I could hug her. I'll never forget you. Mom - I love you.  

He looked like he might lose it again, so I stood up and started towards him.

No Dad, I'm good.  

I sat back down.

"One of the things that Mom always talked to Madison – my little sister sitting over there with Dad, and me about was being kind to others and helping people we saw who looked like they needed it. Honestly, I didn't always follow that advice. But I told myself that I would from now on because of what I heard Mom ask her doctors to do. I overheard Mom and Dad talking. I don't know all the details but I think Mom told Dad that if something happened to her, that she wanted to give her organs to as many people as possible who needed them. So even after her death, she's going to be helping others. I don't think you can be more kind or helpful than that.

And, I just want to say thank you for coming today to say goodbye to my Mom. I love her, and I know you all do, too.

This time I was the one who needed a moment to compose myself. Tyler walked back to sit down, and both he and Maddy and I hugged for a moment. Abby and I have great kids. She was always the primary parent as my work often took me away several days at a time. I was a corporate lawyer on my journey to become partner but I was a very part-time father - something I regret to this day. Abby didn't like those circumstances, but understood and agreed to the end game. I took the podium once again.

Thank you, Tyler. Mom would be so proud of you today - so proud. You and Madison are the lights of her life. Whether it was a basketball game, soccer match or dance recital, Mom never stopped gushing about how you did, whether you sat on the bench the whole game, scored the winning point, danced in the chorus, or on center stage, she beamed while watching, most of the time while alone. She never complained. She loves you both so much.   I felt the tears running down my cheek.

Tyler's right. Abby is an organ donor. She will be helping several people, not the least of which is someone who needed a new heart. How ironic it is that Abby's heart survived all the events of the past few days in great shape and will be put to work almost immediately. So, in a way, Abby will live on, and she once again has shown her kind and caring spirit. I appreciate all those who contributed, in Abby's name, to Daddy's Coming Home!" - The nonprofit that her father, Stan Lawrence started. As a result, we will be able to financially support many more veterans with dreams of starting their own business when they are discharged. Abby felt so strongly about the need for this service that she convinced me to leave the corporate world to come and work as the agency's CEO. An Abby inspired move for which I will always be grateful.

Again, thanks for coming today. We all really appreciate it.  

Afterward, it was good to talk with family members I hadn't seen for a while, as well as so many of Abby's friends, colleagues, and admirers. She touched so many lives in so many ways. Much like her body will do now that she's gone. Most people who knew about the organ donation supported Abby’s decision, but as with any controversial subject, there is another side, and my daughter Madison was firmly planted there. Today, even at 10, girls may have issues with low self-esteem and body image, so Madison was understandably upset about the images she had of her Mom being buried in a less than complete state. She knew her Mom always wanted to be kind to others but those images of transplants truly bothered her. I’ll have to help her work that out.

The kids and I got home after being away the entire day. Butch was at our neighbor's house, but no one had the energy to go pick him up. Butch is our Golden Lab, and I know he is having trouble trying to cope with Abby's absence as well. He paces like an expectant father; he goes to her side of the bed, her chair, and her closet, to see if somehow he missed her in one of those places. I completely understand his frustration. I pace. I can't sleep. I'm not eating very well, and I'm really concerned that I am not going to be able to handle everything. Friends and co-workers have been incredibly understanding and they keep telling me to take as much time as I need. I do have a small staff at Daddy's Coming Home! that can handle things day-to-day but Abby's fledgling decor- consulting business is another story. Abby Burns' Designs was 100% Abby, and she had several projects going at once. Another of Abby’s strong suits was her organizational skills. A design-savvy friend offered to call each client and explain the circumstances. Deposits and partial payments had to be returned, and an Exit Plan had to be determined. Although the actual client number was small, Abby would have wanted each person to be handled with care, and I was determined to see that through, with lots of help from Abby's friend, Laurie.

Don't worry, Russ. I've got this. I will call each client and determine what needs to be done. 

"Thanks, Laurie. And if any of the clients would like to continue with you as their designer, I have no problem with you following through with them.

"I certainly don't have Abby’s talent, but if the client can use my help, I'll be happy to do what I can. Russ, I am so sorry about Abby. If I can do anything else for you or the kids, please let me know. You have a ton of friends who