A Pastoral Word

This week I want to give you an update about my plans for the summer, which have changed quite a bit since Holy Week. That’s when I received a random and unexpected diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (i.e., an irregular heart rhythm). I had my first appointment with a cardiologist after Easter Day, and following a series of tests, it was recommended that I have surgery to repair a leaky mitral valve in my heart, which is what has caused the atrial fibrillation.

My surgeon will be Dr. Gerald Lawrie of Houston Methodist. He's done about 3,300 mitral surgeries, of which about 2,500 have been mitral repairs. And he actually developed the procedure that’s called the “American correction” for mitral valve repair. So I know I’ll be in good hands, supported by a good medical team, and surrounded by the love of Jesus through the prayers of many.

Dr. Lawrie will also do what's called a Maze procedure to deal with the atrial fibrillation. Because that second procedure requires more access, all of this will involve open heart surgery rather than a less invasive approach, and it will take place soon in mid-June. Afterwards, I’ll spend about a week in the hospital and then be at home for a few weeks before easing back into things at the church during the month of August.

Carrie and I are grateful for your prayers, and you all remain in ours. For updates about how things are going, Carrie has set up a CaringBridge page, which you can access by clicking here. While I'm recovering and Carrie is both caring for me and keeping our household running, the Rev’d Allen Junek, who coordinates our pastoral care ministries, has agreed to be the point person at Palmer for your questions or offers of help, and you can email him at associaterector@palmerchurch.org. We're also grateful to the Loaves & Fishes volunteers for their willingness to offer our family some meals along the way. If you're interested in helping in that specific arena, please contact Laura Van Ness, whom you can email at lsvanness@gmail.com.

In the meantime, I look forward to seeing you at the Lord’s Table this weekend on Trinity Sunday!

In the peace of Christ,

The Rev’d Neil Alan Willard, Rector