THAT'S WHAT FRIENDS ARE FOR

In late April 2002, our friends and neighbors, Patrick and Betty Staub, invited my wife and me to sign up for the free abdominal aortic aneurysm screening offered by Aneurysm Outreach Inc in May. Although I had no idea what an abdominal aortic aneurysm was, we agreed to go with them. At the screening, I was informed that the ultrasound showed that I had an aneurysm, and I was given a letter to take to my primary physician or a vascular surgeon. I had watched the video presentation featuring Sheila Arrington and Dr. P. Michael Davis, so I told Sheila that I would seek an appointment with Dr. Davis at CVT Surgical Center in Baton Rouge.

On the following Monday, I visited CVT and made an appointment to see Dr. Davis in one week. After a more thorough ultrasound, Dr Davis told me that I did have an aneurysm large enough to require surgery. Although I had hoped that I could have had the stint operation, he convinced me that I needed the full procedure, and it was scheduled for June 20th.

Prior to my surgery, I had to have a number of tests, blood work, CAT scan, treadmill test, etc. The actual surgery went very well and my friends and family were relieved.

Following a seven-day stay at Our Lady of the Lake Medical Center, I came home for the recuperation period of six to eight weeks. It took the full time for me to be back to my old self; however, a loss of 22 pounds found me going through my closet looking for clothes I had not worn for quite a while.

During the time at home, I thanked my family for putting up with me and of course my friends, the Staubs, for suggesting that I have the initial screening, which did, indeed, save my life.

But the story is not over! Shortly after my recuperation, Sheila Arrington called me to ask if I would assist in promoting the upcoming screening. Of course I said yes, and found myself on television and in the newspapers telling my story. My family and friends now call me the Aneurysm Outreach Poster Boy. I feel that it is the least I can do to promote an organization that was responsible for my good health and well-being. So, when Sheila needs me, I am available to work for this lifesaving group.

Homer Dyess, Baton Rouge, La.