Let’s Help Skye & Shannon Edney

Hello everyone. Skye & Shannon's family have set up a "Go Get Funding" account to help raise funds to assist with medical & household expenses while Skye is recovering from open heart surgery and has additional heart treatments and procedures over the coming months.

Skye's Story:

Skye had a heart attack on Saturday, January 29. With no history of high blood pressure or known contributing factors, this was a shock. However, this heart attack essentially saved Skye's life as without this event, the tests that were run afterward would never have happened. During these tests, multiple serious and life-threatening heart conditions were discovered.

On Friday, February 18, Skye had open heart surgery to remove an aortic aneurysm and have his aorta replaced. The surgery was successful, however Skye's recovery will be lengthy (8-12 weeks) and painful, and will require 12 weeks of 3x/week cardiac rehab appointments to help him regain strength and mobility.

While still in ICU recovering from open heart surgery, the doctors delivered the news that Skye is at risk of sudden cardiac death. Another devastating shock to Skye and Shannon.

There is a combination of things contributing to this condition. Skye's heart has a left bundle branch block, meaning Skye's heart has a blockage of electrical impulses to the left side of the heart, making it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently through his circulatory system. His heart also has a low pumping function, and prior to the open heart surgery his heart was only functioning at 35-40%. Unfortunately, post-surgery Skye's heart is functioning at an even lower rate, currently at approx. 20% - not a sustainable level.

Once Skye has had more time to recover from open heart surgery, he will undergo another surgery to have a biventricular implantable cardioverter defibrillator (BiVICD) put in. This is the most sophisticated type of pacemaker. This device performs pacing and defibrillation functions - so it will not only help Skye's heart to beat stronger and with a more normal rhythm but will also deliver a high power shock to his heart if he goes into cardiac arrest.

Skye and Shannon are overwhelmed with all that has transpired in such a short period of time. Skye is currently at home, where Shannon is caring for all his needs, and carefully administering his medication regimen of 20 different drugs over 4, 6, 8 and 12 hour intervals around the clock.

The past few weeks have been filled with so much stress, anxiety and worry for both Skye and Shannon. In addition to the medical concerns, Skye has been off work for a month already and won't be returning for several more months. They have applied for short term disability but that will only cover a percentage of Skye's wages and won't be in place for another couple of weeks. Shannon has taken time off to be with Skye when he was hospitalized but needs to return to work (thankfully she is able to work from home!).

Many have asked what they can do to help. Your continued prayers, well wishes and encouraging words are much appreciated! We all know medical expenses associated with open heart surgery, continued medical treatment and additional heart procedures are costly, and Skye will not be able to work for some time. If you are able, your financial contribution (any amount would be helpful!) toward Skye's healthy future would be greatly appreciated.