In late October 2024, the Takesian family experienced a significant medical crisis. Amber was hospitalized with pneumonia from November 4th to 10th at Trinity Health Livonia. Shortly after, on November 6th, Josh also developed pneumonia. It was later discovered that Josh was in cardiogenic shock with respiratory failure, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation, requiring two cardioversions. He was placed on life support. Further examination revealed his left ventricle was functioning at only 15% capacity. Trinity Health implanted the first Impella device, but during the procedure, they injured his right iliac artery. This complication necessitated a transfer, with the flight team accompanying the EMS, to Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. On November 10th, a second Impella device was implanted, and the iliac artery was repaired to avoid a possible right leg amputation. On November 17th, Josh was successfully weaned from the ventilator. On November 21st, 2024, Josh received an LVAD (left ventricular assist device), essentially a mechanical heart that runs on batteries and requires wall power at night. The LVAD has drastically changed the family's life, but they are learning to adapt to this new normal. This procedure did have complications; his aortic valve collapsed, requiring emergency open-heart surgery and the replacement of his aortic valve, along with multiple blood transfusions. Josh is currently ineligible for the transplant waiting list, requiring a six-month observation period as part of a bridge-to-transplant strategy. His O-negative blood type necessitates a 3-5 year wait. Josh was transferred to a step-down unit on December 8th, where he underwent extensive physical rehabilitation, regaining mobility after a period of significant debilitation. When the girls visited Santa, they wished for their dad to come home, and receive a new heart. Josh was discharged on December 17th, just in time for the holidays. Amber described her girls as extremely resilient, helpful, and mature, dad's biggest cheerleaders. Josh said that when he finally woke up he couldn't even lift his arms. In January 2025, a bone infection resulted in another week of hospitalization. Josh currently uses a walker and wheelchair.
The SJ5K will provide crucial financial support to the Takesian family, as both parents are unable to work, and Josh’s employment income will cease in February. Ongoing medical expenses include thrice-weekly blood tests and approximately $ 100+ monthly in medication costs, even with insurance coverage. The family expresses deep gratitude for the support received from the Isbister Elementary family and Officer Andy Collective support.
Together, we can help the Takesian's remain unstoppable with PERSEVERANCE.
