Barry had open heart surgery in May. Prior to the surgery he had no cardiac symptoms— no fatigue, no shortness of breath, no pain. Nothing. The surgery is known as a Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) and in Barry's case was a triple bypass. He's doing great. We have so much to be grateful for, so many people to thank and acknowledge at UC San Diego Health—I'll get started now.
Tony Lopez MD, Internal Medicine. For years we have experienced your extraordinary diagnostic skills and caring. Last fall you ordered a Cardio CT Calcium Score. Barry's score was 6,000. The score indicating hi-risk for a potential cardiac event within two years is 400. So—you ordered a stress test and referred to Cardiology. And thus, this often nerve-wracking but ultimately successful medical journey began. Words are insufficient to express our gratitude you ordered that test. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Edward Duran MD, Cardiology. Thank you for your thorough review of test results and medical history, for your explanation of various tests and for your data-driven assessment. We appreciate that you discussed the risks of an angiogram and entrusted the decision whether to have one to Barry. Thank you as well for listening to my why can't you just order a Cardio CT Calcium Score on everyone harangue. Though there is some disagreement about the when and why of ordering such a test— in our view, it was the only indicator something was amiss.
Lawrence Ang MD, Cardiology. Thank you for your skill in threading a catheter through coronary arteries and for your professional and compassionate explanation of why, in Barry's case, you felt cardiac surgery was the best option.
Mark J. Kearns MD, FRCSC, Cardiothoracic surgeon. Where do I start? I won't speak for Barry on this since his relaxed, chill demeanor is a far cry from the abject fear I was experiencing. Your calming presence and patient answers to our multiple questions immediately put me at ease. You talked to us not at us. You are professional, kind, confident and competent. When we left that pre-op visit with you I was certain Barry's heart would be safe in your hands. It was—thanks to you and the team in the OR and the ICU. Shout out to David G., David C. and Ana. And Kiko, thank you for your efficient and gracious scheduling, rescheduling and rescheduling!
The staff of the Cardiovascular ICU. What a great team! I practiced nursing for nearly 50 years and have had my share of health care experiences with family and friends and I have never witnessed a more competent, professional and caring group of nurses. Thank you all—especially Sabrina, Mary, Cameron, Colin and Collin.
Barry Greenberg MD, FHFSA, Cardiology. Who knew over two decades ago when my home care agency was caring for your patients, that our paths would cross again thanks to my friendship with your beautiful wife Jennifer? I called her in a panic about that darn Cardio CT Calcium Score and next thing I knew you called Barry and I—and in a reasoned, thoughtful way assessed the situation and assured us there was no urgency. You gave us a gift—the enjoyment of the holidays and every day thereafter as we navigated the tests, procedures and waits. Thank you.
Finally, thanks to all the family and friends who supported us throughout—brothers, aunts, cousins, lifelong friends, Barry's college buddies, my dear tap sistas, a special loaned angel— your encouraging words, prayers, texts, calls, messages, cards, notes, lunches, coffees, wines and more. All of it—every single act and gesture meant more than you know.
Our hearts are fullđź’“
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