My Vic. Such a warrior you are. So young and full of life.

Two years ago, we anxiously sat in the waiting room at Cedar’s Sinai with some of our closest family and dearest friends. Awaiting for them to call your name so they can prep you for your open heart surgery.

The vows we exchanged only a few months prior “through sickness and in health” came into play so soon and so unexpectedly.

We had no idea you had a life-threatening congenital heart defect, but thank God you went in to get a check-up at the doctor’s when you did! I could have been telling a much different story today. Everything that lead us to that very moment in time in the waiting room was all a part of God’s greater plan for you to live a prosperous and healthier life.

The thought of the what-if’s gets to me. We took that chance for you to have this surgery because it was the lesser of two evils. Knowing any complications could arise was scary to hear. And yet, you were the one comforting me, letting me know that everything was going to be okay. You were the tough one, even though I can see how much in pain you were in. You’re always the type to put everyone else first, no matter what and I’ve always appreciated that about you.

After they had finally called your name and wheeled you back for your surgery, I whispered a prayer over you and gave you one last kiss goodbye before your surgery. I remember walking back to the waiting room, anxious and worried, yet trying to remain calm for everyone else that was there. It’s been a long day, and a few long agonizing months, but we were here. And it was finally happening whether we were ready or not.

3 and half hours pass by. As I sat in the waiting room with our family, I suddenly saw your surgeon Dr. Trento, make his way over to me. It had already been a long day of waiting around for hours. I had a huge knot in my stomach the closer he got. I was hoping for good news!

Dr Trento: “Your husband is in recovery now. I was able to repair his valve instead of replace it with a mechanical one. There’s no more leaky valve and no more heart murmur!”

*I’m in utter shock.

Dr Trento: “And his new valve is going to last him many, many more years.”

I had cried tears of relief. I couldn’t believe it!

“My Vic was going to be okay. He’s going to be hurting and in a lot of pain, but he made it through. Thank you, God.” I remember thinking to myself.

So much has happened between surgery and now, and you’ve come a long way!

Now, two years later, here we are. You’re healthier than before and you’ve made extraordinary lifestyle changes that I’m so proud of you for that weren’t easy to do! You’ve been able to get into better shape, and if I can brag about you for a little bit, you’ve lost 50 pounds all through your dedication and hard work! (I know getting up at 5am everyday to workout wasn’t easy, either!)

And of course, feeling blessed for you in my life, for being the one that’s there for me, my person, my rock. You’ve been such a sport and I couldn’t have been more proud to be the wife of someone who’s rocking the zipper club now!

As I reflect back on your heart journey, I can’t help but feel incredibly blessed for family and friends that stuck around during these tough times. To the doctors and nurses that work day-in and day-out saving lives. To Dr. Komin, for hearing the murmur in the first place. To Dr. Trento, a world class surgeon, for making this experience as smooth as possible for us. To the people working behind the scenes, from desk clerks, to the anesthesiologist, to everyone, ensuring that everything would run smoothly. We couldn’t thank you enough, even that sounds like an understatement. We owe you the world. You’re the guiding hands of God that help make incredible miracles happen everyday. What lead us to that point was all a blur but so glad that is behind us now. Though it was a life-changing and scary experience at that, it’s opened our eyes to the greater things in life and helped us realized what’s really important. And I couldn’t be more thrilled about my best friend and husband, getting a new lease on life.

Here’s to you, Vic. On your heart surgery anniversary. There’s no one I’d rather do this crazy life with than with you! You’re a true warrior for going through something like this so young and a living testament. The kids and I are so lucky to have you. You’re the best husband and father I could have ever prayed for and I’m so glad in how far you’ve already come in your heart journey, a true inspiration.

Now, get out there and keep doing you! The world needs more people like you.

Love Your Wifey,

“Sosh”