Barney's Long Awaited Heart ❤

In the Spring of 2013 Barney Spurlock was diagnosed with Cardiomyopathy. Prior to this illness he was a healthy, strong, hardworking provider but when a virus attacked his heart his life’s journey began to change. Initially doctors tried a medication regiment and pacemaker but that didn’t seem to bring the desired outcome. In November of 2014 he was given a mechanical heart and put on the heart transplant list. Every day for the next two years he woke up, buckled his battery pack (that was powering his heart) around his waist, and faced the day with a positive attitude. As a result of the illness he was no longer able to be employed which only made his life circumstances even more difficult. Over these 2 years he has faced many adversities, there have been many both mentally and physically exhausting days but he handled each one of them with the type of grace that only God could provide.
On the night of Wednesday, December 14th he was woken by a call he had waited 2 years for. A call that all of his family had prayed so desperately would come. There was a possible match and he needed to get to Spokane. His family drove through the night to get him to the hospital and waited nearly 24 hours to find out if the donor heart would be the perfect match. Finally, late Thursday evening the donor heart was declared viable and early Friday morning Barney was given a second chance at life. A young 32 year old male has passed on and in doing so he has given the most amazing gift anyone could ever ask for. Two years was a very long time to wait patiently but God’s timing is perfect.
Barney will once again be able to get down on the mat and coach his grandson’s wrestling match. He’ll be able to set up hunting camp and enjoy time in the mountains which he so loved prior to getting sick. He’ll be able to enjoy his grandchildren who are the absolute light of his life. He’ll be able live life to the fullest. We know without a doubt this second chance won’t be taken for granted!
The road to recovery is sure to be a long one. This was a major surgery and there will be good days and bad days but just as he has for the last two years Barney will face recovery with strength and determination. After he is discharged from the hospital he will have to stay in Spokane for a few months as he will have to report to the hospital for daily biopsies and routine check-ups. We are asking for your help with living costs if you have the means to do so and your heart moves you to. We are so very thankful for all of your prayers and support during this time. God has surrounded us with some pretty incredible people. Your support is such a blessing.