end stage congestive heart failure

[trishj69]

As I am writing this my husband is sitting in the recliner with his oxygen set at "4".  Both of his feet are swollen like ballons.  He just turned 67 and is being prepared for the heart transplant list.  Lot of red tape.  Today he is very down (tears and lots of regret).  He says he feels as if the doctors are just stringing him along and there is no way he is ever going to get a heart transplant.  I know there are different stages and classifications for the transplant list but realistically speaking what are his chances at his age?  I'm looking for support groups and don't seem to be able to find any.  There are days that I spend hours in my room crying but don't want him to know.  I really want to be able to talk to someone that has bee through this procedure.  Nobody is telling us anything except it's a long tedious process and we have a long way to go.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[carolanivey]

I'm sorry I don't have much to add re: your husband's condition, but for both of you, most hospitals have social workers on staff who can help you in a variety of ways, from patient education to home care. When I was growing up with rheumatoid arthritis, a hospital social worker even helped me find college money through state programs. Just ask - having someone to at least talk to will be a huge help. Maybe he or she can find you a support group. Gook luck! [[hugs]]

[mammo]

I can't answer your question but you shouldn't have to come here for your answers, and this is one of many things that aggravates me with the medical profession.  They should have fully informed you of everything.  Call or make an appt. with whomever you need to speak with regarding your husband's health, his cardiologist would be a good place to start.  Hospitals normally have a department strictly for handling transplants, go to them and get answers.  Go to the hospital administrator and let him/her know your concerns.  You and your husband deserve to know what you're facing, and what to expect, don't let the medical profession ignore you.  They are working for you, demand answers and keep going until somebody answers them.  I always start at the top for fast results. Good luck to you and your husband, I know how difficult this is.  Take care.....