Paul Cardall Blog | Before My Heart Stops | Congenital Heart Disease to Heart Transplant

A Walking Time Bomb

2011-11-28T14:36:00.001-07:00

Those of you who enjoy this blog I apologize for taking a rather long break from sharing my thoughts on life.

Photo: My 2nd annual cardiac catheterization and biopsy test

Ever since I was given a second chance it feels as though time has sped up. I'm not any busier than I was before, but maybe it's that I understand now more than ever how fragile our time here on earth is.

On the downside, I often feel like a walking time bomb with only so many years ahead of me.

Photo: My daughter Eden making a scary Halloween face. She loves the Halloween holiday.

Transplanted hearts usually don't last beyond 10-20 years because your body fights the DNA of that heart like a virus. But transplant medicines are strong. Each has some side effects. These side effects are different in each person. The doctors will try to give you medicine that has the fewest side effects for you.

The biggest problem with any of the transplant medicines is that they make it hard for your body to fight off infections. Also, transplant medicines can make you more likely to get some types of cancer, mostly cancer of the lymph glands and skin cancers.

Doctors will try very hard to make sure your body gets enough transplant medicine to keep your new heart healthy. At the same time, they will try to keep you from having infections and getting cancer.

Photo: With Lynnette on Lake Cuomo in Italy during our fall tour.

Chances for me of receiving a 2nd donor heart is even more challenging that getting the first one. I hadn’t counted on the possibly until this past week when I received peaceful assurance for my own future.

Seven years ago, my neighbor's son Kenny received a heart transplant. However, over the past several months his donor heart was failing. Only 20% of Kenny's donor heart was functioning. Depressed and discouraged, the family was told there was nothing doctors could do for him. He was too sick to be listed for a heart transplant.

However, this didn't stop the family and the doctors from trying. They’d lost their mother recently and with all the faith the father could muster he put his faith in a loving God and hoped for a good outcome for his son.

Eventually, Kenny began to get some strength. Last Tuesday doctors made the decision to list him. He was approved and less than a week later he received his 2nd donor heart. This is a rather unusual event especially for someone with the most popular form of blood type, O.

Photo: At the leaning tower in Italy during our fall tour.

Grateful for Kenny’s new life, I continue to enjoy my own donor heart. I think about my donor every day. I often feel he’s close by. I pray I may live worthy of the miracle I received from my donor and from our Creator. Through the knowledge and wisdom of doctors, the Lord has given me more time.

Every minute of every hour in life, matters. What you do with your time matters. This holiday season; make the moments in the lives of those you love matter.

Back Soon . . . Stay Posted . . .

2011-08-17T19:32:00.001-06:00

Enjoying our summer. I'll be back soon.

Performing Wasatch

2011-06-21T14:08:00.001-06:00

Inspired by the mountains that overshadow my home in Utah each morning as the Sun rises from the east. I have performed Wasatch at several of my concerts. This particular performance is on a DVD available with my new album New Life.

Ive been fortunate to share the stage with many of these musicians; David Tolk, Jon Shults, Ryan Tilby, Craig Miner, Steven Sharp Nelson, Marshall McDonald, Kevin Davis, and more.

For more information visit my website http://www.paulcardall.com

it will all go by in a flash

2011-06-07T15:43:00.001-06:00

My daughter Eden graduated from pre-school after two years of learning from wonderful teachers. They gave her a diploma. She’s had fun and made good friends. But when you put her schooling into perspective we still have16 years to go before she graduates from college with a bachelor’s degree.

It feels like a long ways away. But, I’ve been reminded by a friend whose’ daughter is about to get married that it will all go by in a flash.

Still, it is sad to see them grow and yet it’s exciting at the same time to watch them have the desire to learn new things, go new places, and make friends.

Can you capture these moments in a photo or on a video? No. They don’t truly capture the beauty of our children’s innocence, intrigue, and curious nature. Like taking a picture of the Grand Canyon it’s just not the same as being there and experiencing the view with your family.

Photo: Eden with her Aunt Bonnie. They're silly.

The same goes with our children. Are we present during their big moments and the little ones? Have we captured our experiences with them in our minds? Time goes by quickly. Only the time we spend with our kids creating memories can that experience become a nostalgic moment we can draw upon when our wells of happiness dry up.

My daughter is growing. She’ll be in kindergarten this year. It’s been almost two years since my transplant and the time has flown by. I’ll admit, I’ve been extremely busy, but fortunately I’ve had time to spend with my own daughter hopefully creating a wonderful world around her filled with opportunities for the optimistic.

Inspired by Friends

2011-05-26T10:51:00.001-06:00

My friends and colleagues pianist Jon Schmidt and cellist Steven Sharp Nelson inspire me to be a better musician. Steven is one of the artists on the record label I own and manage Stone Angel Music, Inc. (http://www.stoneangelmusic.com)

Look Familiar?

2011-05-26T10:44:00.001-06:00

My daughter Eden and I recognized this gentleman and thought we should get a picture with him. We have a lot in common although he's much wider than me.

My Old Heart | Diet & Exercise

2011-05-18T10:17:00.001-06:00

When I left the hospital with a new donor heart, after surviving years of heart failure, I weighed 139 lbs. Today, I'm 170 lbs. and I can feel it. Ironically, when pathologists weighed my defective old ticker it was 7 lbs vs. my new donor heart that weighs 2.7 lbs.

Photo: Holding my abnormal heart in pathology the day I left the hospital with a new donor heart. A large section had been taken to the University of Utah Hospital for study leaving behind this section. In most cases, your normal human heart is the size of your fist.

Feeling like I need to change my diet and exercise more I have reread some valuable information that certainly might be helpful for those of you with normal hearts.

Columbia surgery.com says the following:

Lifestyle Changes after Your Heart Transplant Operation

1. Maintaining Your Optimum Weight

To give your new heart the best advantage in restoring your health, keeping your weight at an optimum and steady level is very important. Excess weight increases the work your heart must do to pump your blood to all the cells of your body. Excess weight will also cause stress on your joints and lead to pain; it also stresses your bones, making them more prone to breaking.

The best way to control your weight is with proper diet and exercise. After transplantation, diet becomes a very important part of your life. The drugs you take to prevent rejection have several side effects which make a "heart healthy" diet a necessity. The nutritionist on the transplant team and your physician work with you to develop a healthy and controlled eating plan to help you maintain your optimum weight.

Caffeine, Alcohol and Tobacco

These commonly-used substances will need to be eliminated or severely restricted in your new healthy lifestyle.

Caffeine is a stimulant of the central nervous system and can over stimulate your new heart. Some are more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than others. It can cause insomnia, heartbeat irregularities and diarrhea. Even a moderate amount of caffeine can promote headaches, trembling and nervousness. Your doctor will advise you on your need to limit your use of caffeinated products like coffee, tea, chocolate and sodas.

Alcohol consumption should be eliminated or severely restricted after your transplant. Alcoholic beverages are high in calories, low in nutrients and can increase the level of triglycerides in your blood. Even more important is the fact that alcohol can impair your liver's function. Cyclosporine and other medications are broken down in the liver. So, for your medications to work properly and safeguard your new heart from rejection, it is essential that your liver be healthy and properly functioning.

Smoking tobacco is a high-risk activity. We strongly recommend that you do not smoke. Smoking lessens the ability of your red blood cells to carry oxygen; less oxygen reaches your tissues, decreasing your ability to heal. Smoking constricts your blood vessels, especially those in your legs, arms and heart. All of these problems are accentuated in individuals taking immunosuppressive medications.

2. Physical Exercise

After transplant surgery, an active, progressive daily exercise program is vital for your full recovery. It will rebuild your muscle strength. It will boost your mood and enhance your mental state.

As a heart transplant recipient, you will find that your sensory experience of exercise is now very different from before. Your new heart does not have the same nerve connections as your old. In most patients, the nerves severed during surgery do not grow back like other structures in your body. We refer to your new heart as a "denervated" heart. Because your heart is denervated, its responses to exercise are different. Your heart functions perfectly well despite these differences; they do not limit what you are able to do.

Another important difference is that you will no longer experience chest pain, or angina, when you exercise. The nerve connections that conducted this pain are gone. Any chest pain during exercise will probably be caused by the ongoing healing of chest after surgery. This lack of sensation is the rationale for receiving coronary angiograms each year following transplantation.

After receiving a new heart, we expect you to participate fully in all of life's activities. This means enjoying family activities, returning to work, leading a normal social life and contributing back to society.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Cardall's Taser death inspires Utah police training

2011-05-14T21:49:00.001-06:00

“Out of tragedy comes good things,” Utah Governor Herbert said, before signing the resolution known as S.C.R. 1. “Our state is in a better place in many ways because of the Cardall family and their tragedy.”

By Melinda ROGERS

The Salt Lake Tribune
First published May 11 2011 07:05PM
Updated May 12, 2011 10:08AM

He was supposed to be finishing school this week.

Two years ago, Brian Layton Cardall, 32, earned a prestigious fellowship to conduct research for a doctorate in biological sciences at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff.

Photo: Governor Herbert, Senator Jones, my parents, brother's widow Anna with Brian's kids and her sister

His dreams of embarking on a career in science were cut short on the side of a southern Utah highway in 2009 when a Hurricane police officer deployed a Taser on him as he experienced a bipolar episode. Cardall’s wife, Anna, called 911 to ask for medical help, and watched as police instead used a stun gun on her confused husband, who later died.

On Wednesday, Anna Cardall brought her daughters Ava, 4, and Bella, 18 months, to the state Capitol to celebrate their dad’s legacy in a way the family never envisioned: By observing Gov. Gary Herbert hold a symbolic signing of a resolution that encourages the state’s police departments to participate in a program designed to better train officers on how to handle encounters with the mentally ill.

Photo: Salt Lake City Police Chief Burbank expressing his departments support

The Cardall family listened as Herbert complimented the family for sharing their story about losing Brian — and highlighting the need for a better understanding among police forces about mental illness.

“Out of tragedy comes good things,” Herbert said, before signing the resolution known as S.C.R. 1. “Our state is in a better place in many ways because of the Cardall family and their tragedy.”

Photo: With Governor Herbert and my father.

State Sen. Patricia Jones, D-Holladay, introduced the resolution during the last session to endorse the CIT Academy and the education and training it brings law enforcement. Her resolution, which came after working in conjunction with the Cardall family and the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Utah, calls for law enforcement to recognize that the CIT Academy improves the outcomes of police officers’ encounters with the mentally ill. It asks police agencies to put officers through the academy.

Salt Lake City Police Chief Chris Burbank praised the program at Wednesday’s ceremony at the Capitol, saying that officers who have a sharper understanding of mental health issues are able to help the community. The department adopted the program in 2001.

The Salt Lake City Police Department was recently chosen by the Council of State Governments Justice Center as a “mental health learning site” — a place where other law enforcement agencies can look for guidance on how to improve their responses to the mentally ill. Only six police departments in the U.S. received the designations, which were chosen by national experts and the U.S. Justice Department’s Bureau of Justice Assistance.

Salt Lake City Detective Ron Bruno, who oversees the CIT Academy, has previously said the Brian Cardall case appears to have motivated other police departments to enroll in the program. The Hurricane Police Department is among the agencies that started attending the CIT Academy after Cardall’s death.

About 12 percent of Utah’s 1,200 law enforcement officers hold CIT certification; more have likely undergone the training but have had their certifications expire, Bruno said. Continue Reading on the Salt Lake Tribune website

Members of the Salt Lake City Police Department with Governor Herbert

AT A GLANCE:
The Cardall lawsuit

The family of Brian Cardall has filed a federal lawsuit against two Hurricane police officers involved in the use of a Taser on the 32-year-old man as he suffered a bipolar episode on the side of State Road 59 near Hurricane on June 9, 2009.

Brian Cardal's Presentation at the 2009 Tamarisk and Russian Olive Research Conference, Tamarisk Coalition, Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, Nevada, February 19, 2009

Anna Cardall had called 911 to report her husband behaving erratically, and told dispatchers her husband was unarmed, had bipolar disorder and had taken Seroquel, a medicine used to treat manic episodes associated with the disorder. The lawsuit alleges police could have contained Brian Cardall differently. The complaint, which is pending in federal court, alleges several missteps were made by Officer Ken Thompson and Hurricane Police Chief Lynn Excell at the scene.

Thompson deployed a Taser 42 seconds after arriving at the scene, despite information from a 911 dispatcher that Cardall was bipolar and was waiting for medication to take effect. Dispatchers told officers that Cardall spoke of meeting the president and was jumping in front of cars on the road — indications of mental illness.

Thompson and Excell went to the scene, even though the incident was outside of Hurricane city limits and within the jurisdiction of the Washington County sheriff’s deputies who were en route.

When Thompson arrived at the scene, the 156-pound Cardall, nude and unarmed, was no longer in the road. Thompson drew his Taser and began shouting commands. When Thompson yelled, “Come here,” Cardall put his hands up.

Thompson and Excell did not make any effort to take Cardall into custody after he was hit by a Taser. He remained on the ground, breathing and moaning after the first Taser cycle. Thompson waited only two seconds before firing a second shot at Cardall; Excell then rolled Cardall facedown in the gravel and handcuffed him.

Thompson did not use a can of pepper spray. Neither officer tried to use their hands to restrain Cardall.

The officers did not render aid to Cardall before paramedics arrived, even though he appeared not to be breathing. They did not evaluate Cardall’s airway or turn him on his side so he could breathe more easily. Cardall was left handcuffed.

Peter Stirba, a Salt Lake City attorney representing the Hurricane Police Department, maintains Hurricane police responded to the Cardall situation in accordance with their training. After an investigation last year, Washington County Attorney Brock Belnap found the officers were justified in using a Taser on Cardall.

My Community College

2011-05-06T21:26:00.009-06:00

" My Community College offered me tremendous opportunities for growth in our world."

How did your college experience impact your life? I learned valuable lessons that have helped me throughout my career. However, my education didn’t always come from the classroom.

Photo: Prior to the SLCC Commencement 2011 at the Maverick Center

Fifteen years ago, I had the privilege to be a student at the University of Utah as well as Salt Lake Community College (SLCC). A bulk of my experience was at SLCC for which I take great pride. My most valuable memories were the extracurricular activities associated with leadership and serving the SLCC student body in the after hours.

Before college, as a high school student I enjoyed being involved, organizing school events, and taking on leadership roles. So naturally I applied for the SLCC Freshman Leadership Scholarship with hopes of two things. First, I was hoping to alleviate some of the financial stress associated with attending college. Second, I wanted to continue working with other creative people to learn from them and together improve the lives of those around me.

My freshman year of college was exciting and there were more than 40,000 students attending our community college. I appreciated the rich diversity, unique cultural differences and various religious views shared by the student body.

Photo: Receiving an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Salt Lake Community College and the State of Utah Board of Education Friday, May 5, 2011

I became a member of the college activities board. United, it was our desire to help other folks have a good experience while attending school.

Under the direction of our faculty, we held barbeques on the quad with disc jockeys and live bands, flew in comedians, and enjoyed guest lecturers like Barry “Greg” Williams from the Brady Bunch. Schindler’s List hit theaters and we organized a sobering evening watching the film after which a holocaust survivor told his frightful story.

I left college after one year to serve a mission for my church. Two years later I returned to the SLCC campus to visit friends and faculty mentors. The nostalgia of my previous experience drew me back to that institution where I then chose to pursue my associate of science degree.

Photo: Celebrating with family at the SLCC Presidents dinner held the night before commencement.

Over the next year, I took great pride in working on campus as the Fine Arts Board Chairperson and briefly as the Student Body Public Relations Vice-President where I learned how to develop, organize, market, and manage campus events. In addition, to earn money, I took a part-time job in the student development office visiting high schools and college fairs to encourage other students to go to college.

To this day, I have often found myself applying these principles of leadership to the everyday aspects of my career. I also learned that outside of my career it’s that extra time devoted to my family, church, and other organizations associated with my expertise that truly give me greater purpose, direction, builds self esteem, and provides a wonderful sense of belonging to a community.

Photo: Keynote address was by Morgan Spurlock, made famous for his documentary "Super-Size Me" and "The Greatest Movie Ever Sold"

Because of the countless acts of kindness shown to our family during my heart transplant crisis and my love of SLCC, our family foundation created an endowment and annual scholarship in an effort to help students born with congenital heart disease or another similar disorder.

Often times, people born with life threatening illnesses, do not for see a long life and set aside their educational pursuits. Others can’t afford education because of medical bills. By creating this scholarship it was my hope that these individuals who thought college would never be a possibility, will be empowered, find hope in the future, and purpose in pursuing an education despite their circumstances.

Last year’s recipient of The Paul Cardall Scholarship for Congenital Heart Disorders was Sydney Moon from North Sevier High School. She has devoted time as a volunteer to the Special Olympics and is pursing a business marketing degree.

This year’s 2011-2012 recipient is Barbara Burns, a mother from Kamas, Utah. She is pursuing a career in radiology, is a member of National Honor Society, associated with Hospice, and volunteers for the Boy Scouts of America. Despite her complicated heart defect, Barbara has said, “I expect to graduate school as I continue this journey with great enthusiasm.”

Photo: Enjoying the honor with my wife Lynnette

Last evening, I had a rare privilege to attend the SLCC commencement ceremonies. More than 4000 degrees were awarded to graduates of Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) from the nation’s 3rd ranked best community colleges based on degrees awarded. As an alumnus, I was honored to be among these graduates to receive an honorary doctorate of humane letters.

I am grateful for my association with my community college. I believe SLCC to be one of the finest institutions that has offered me tremendous opportunities for growth in our world.

Life Long Survival with Congenital Heart Disease

2011-05-04T10:11:00.003-06:00

"If your doctor can't draw your defect on a napkin or piece of paper, and has less than 20 patients with CHD, then you need to find a new doctor."

There are over a million adults living with congenital heart disease.

Last week, the Adult Congenital Heart Association gathered for a conference in L.A. that brought together a majority of physicians who specialize in caring for potential life long survivors in the field of congenital heart disease.

Photo 1: Enjoying the conference with my wife Lynnette and Utah's adult congenital cardiologist Angela Yetman, M.D.

I was fortunate to attend with my wife and meet many of these doctors along with several adult survivors who like me are enjoying a good life despite it's many challenges.

I walked away from the conference believing adults who have survived with CHD and the doctors who care for them are clearing a path that will enable even more children born with abnormal hearts to grow up and enjoy life. This requires, however, patients never stop seeing a congenital cardiologist just as you would not stop seeing your dentist to avoid cavities.

The regular cardiologist, even if they have a little bit of experience with birth defects, usually do not understand how to treat deformed hearts.

Photo 2: Adult Congenital Cardiologists discussing life long care at the ACHA Conference in L.A.

Specialists or congenital cardiologist understand the anatomy and know how to treat symptoms and find corrective surgical procedures. Many patients with complicated heart problems often can develop long term complications associated with their particular heart problem. For example, liver failure or arrhythmias. Only adult congenital cardiologist know when to start looking for early signs as well as provide up and coming medical therapies and treatments for these adults before it becomes too late.

Above all, "if your doctor can't draw your defect on a napkin or piece of paper on the spot, and has less than 20 patients with CHD, then you need to find a new doctor," said Daniel Murphy, Jr. MD from Stanford.

I discussed the ACHA conference and adult care on the CHD Show with Jim Ferretti.

Take a listen to the podcast:
http://paulcardall.com/Congenital_Heart_Disease.xml

or on Itunes
http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-chd-show-jim-ferretti/id414133851

THE ACHA
Learn more about ACHA and find detailed information for adults with CHD

Inspiring Story about My Cousin born with CF

2011-04-08T22:56:00.000-06:00

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

I'm ok, I am very aware of where I'm going

2011-04-04T12:12:00.001-06:00

Saturday afternoon after a long Utah winter, the sun was bright with the grass becoming greener, and many could be found outside enjoying the warmth of spring. Yet, the following day the valley floors were covered with the wintry pure white powdery snow reflective of a painting of heaven.

Inside a quiet basement apartment south of Salt Lake City a young husband was tenderly caring for his dying wife. They had returned a year earlier from Australia where Quintin had studied at the University and Holly, who was born with a severe heart defect, had enjoyed the physical blessings of living at sea level while reeling in the joy of young married love.

Photo: Holly & Quintin's wedding day

Sadly, Holly’s abnormal heart, which had undergone numerous surgical procedures, began failing, which forced the devoted couple to come home to Salt Lake City in hopes of extending her life. No matter how hard they tried, no matter where they looked, this beautiful couple was denied an opportunity to receive a donor heart because of additional organ complications in Holly’s body. Experiencing the various roller coaster emotions of grief in the realization that her life was at the end, and she would be separated from Quintin, she began to feel the overwhelming peace that comes from accepting life’s predicaments.

I visited her in the hospital months ago. She had actually died for several minutes, before doctors were able to bring her back to life. Lying in her bed as friends with similar health experiences who understood each other, she told me through her confident smile something to the extent; “I’ve come to that point where I can say ‘whatever you want God.’ Since I’ve done this I feel as though He has donated his heart to me and I am ready. I am not afraid anymore and actually looking forward to going to the other side.”

Photo: Holly & Quintin

Saturday morning in their basement apartment, knowing that her time of transition was near, and this might be their last chance together, her family gathered. They spent the day watching on TV the annual general conference for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Most of the sermons centered on Jesus Christ and finding happiness in life and death by believing in the Savior’s redeeming love.

Shortly before 4:00 pm, in the afternoon session’s final sermon, Elder M. Russell Ballard said, “Great things are wrought through small and simple things. Like the small flecks of gold that accumulate over time into a large treasure, our small and simple acts of kindness and service will accumulate into a life filled with love for Heavenly Father, devotion to the world of the Lord Jesus Christ and a sense of peace and joy each time we reach out to one another."

Around 5:30 pm, with winter snow approaching the valley and surrounded by family, Holly transitioned to the other side. She was like the small flecks of gold in this world that had become a great treasure and now has opportunity to share a treasure of kindness with those who have also passed on.

It’s a fact that no matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow. We live to die and we die to live again. Though the wild gentian always blooms, the wildflower’s apparent beauty at times appears over for the season. Often, though, the wildflower season is extended throughout the winter and one can view the remnants of the flowers that remain in the fields and forests of our area.

Though Holly’s spirit has moved on, her legacy remains and those who knew her are better and more righteous for having been her friend.

In her last blog entry Holly wrote, "I want you all to know how much I love you, and if I haven't met you than you are a friend I haven't met yet. I don't believe in strangers . . I'm ok, I am very aware of where I'm going and how wonderful I will feel there. "

Holly loved her Savior. She understood His plan of happiness. She had charity in her soul. She displayed kindness through humor, love, and friendship throughout her earthly life. She suffered much, but considered it a gift to help her grow. She now offers this comfort and peace to others who have passed through the veil of death.

I believe she will tell those who are struggling that the doorway leading to happiness is through Jesus Christ, God’s only begotten Son. Holly understood this eternal message and has been "chosen to declare liberty to the captives and preach to them the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ, the doctrine of the resurrection, and the redemption of mankind from the fall of Adam, and from individual sins on condition of repentance." (D&C 138: 18-19) Holly will offer her heart to anyone who will listen.

Though we do not fully understand our Father in Heaven’s purpose in allowing his sons and daughters to suffer, and at times endure burdens beyond mortal comprehension, we would all do well to embrace Holly’s spirit of understanding and acceptance of her illness with a smile and the ability to see it as a gift from a loving Father in Heaven.

Truly, Holly has received the generous new heart of an Eternal Donor, even the heart of God, which can make us pure, holy, happy, and full of life. And like the spring tulip rising up out of the ground until it has fully bloomed, Holly and the rest of God’s children will rise again from the grave because Jesus conquered death. That transcendent gift gives each of us an opportunity to follow His example and become partakers of God's great plan of happiness, which is to bring to pass the mortality and eternal life of mankind.

As Shakespeare wrote:
Sweet are the uses of adversity,
Which like the toad, ugly and venomous,
Wears yet a precious jewel in his head.

(As You Like It, act 2, scene 1)

BILLBOARD SURPRISED

2011-04-01T07:11:00.001-06:00

David Burger from the Salt Lake Tribune wrote a nice piece about my recent adventure hitting #1 on Billboards New Age Chart much to surprise of Billboard.

Paul Cardall plays his heart out on No. 1 album

By david burger

The Salt Lake Tribune

Published: March 31, 2011 11:14PM
Updated: April 1, 2011 12:18AM

The researcher who compiles the Billboard New Age chart expressed surprise that Salt Lake City pianist and composer Paul Cardall’s new album “New Life” ranked No. 1 for three weeks earlier this year.

“I’m not sure how they did that,” said Gordon Murray, chart and research manager of Billboard magazine, about Cardall and his Salt Lake City-based label, Shadow Mountain Records, a division of Deseret Book.

The album’s popularity seems even more surprising when you consider that Yanni, the undisputed king of New Age music, released his new album just six days before Cardall released “New Life.” For three weeks, Cardall, a little-known pianist and composer from the Beehive State, sold more copies nationwide of his new album than Yanni did.

But Cardall considers his biggest, and happiest surprise is that he’s alive.

Help My Friend Quintin and Holly

2011-03-19T11:52:00.001-06:00

If you have the means, please donate to my friend Quintin whose wife Holly is waiting to return back to our Father in Heaven. Because of her advanced heart failure and other related issues she is not able to receive a heart transplant and is currently receiving hospice care.

Her humble family has never asked for financial help, but they are definitely in need of some tender mercies. You can help bless their life by giving just a little bit so Quintin can take care of his wife.

If you'd like to help there is a donate button at: http://www.teamholly.blogspot.com/

How Will God Measure Our Lives

2011-03-19T09:06:00.001-06:00

"I've concluded that the metric by which God will assess my life isn't dollars, but the individual people whose lives I've touched," said Clayton Christensen, Harvard Professor in Forbes Magazine (Feb 2011)

"I think that's the way it will work for us all. Don't worry about the level of individual prominence you have achieved; worry about the individuals you have helped become better people."

Life and Death

2011-03-17T21:05:00.001-06:00

Most of you know that last year I received a second chance at life after a donor heart was placed in my chest. Ironically, my younger brother passed away while I waited for the transplant surgery. He was unable to donate his organs. (The video contains actual footage from the day mom brought our baby brother home).

Today, beating in my chest is the heart of another young man who like my brother has gone home to the God who gave us life.

The best way I know how to express the raw deep emotions I've experienced is through the piano music I create.

Life and Death was originally written by Michael Giacchino for the show LOST. I fell in love with the piece and it speaks peace to my soul. Together with Steven Sharp Nelson and Marshall McDonald I arranged "Life and Death" for my latest album, New Life.

Available at Deseret Book, Itunes or where-ever else fine music is sold.

Looking to Jesus for Understanding

2011-03-10T20:19:00.004-07:00

Last weekend my cousin’s wife Julie, a mother of twin boys who has suffered from cystic fibrosis her entire life and who was told by doctors months ago she needed a double-lung transplant if her life would continue, was informed her transplant team had found a donor match.

Photo: Visiting Julie & David Hendrickson

Julie was coincidentally celebrating her birthday with friends during dinner when she received a phone call informing her of the good news. She only had only a couple of hours to get to the hospital.Later that evening, surgeons successfully removed her damaged lungs and replaced them with donor organs, thus granting her renewed life and an opportunity to raise her sons for a season.

Meanwhile, a few days ago, in a quiet and peaceful basement apartment, I visited my close friend Holly who receives hospice care; having been denied the opportunity to receive a donor heart because of complications associated with her other organs.

Photo: Visiting with Quintin & Holly

She and her husband are in a standstill knowing it won’t be long before they are separated physically from each other for a season.

From my personal perspective, it is because of our deep love and connection to family and friends that we don’t want to say goodbye. It is too painful. I’ve known strong men whose intense grief has caused them to lie in bed in the fetal position because of the anguish. Losing a loved one makes a person feel amputated.

While some witness a renewal of life, others see a loved one slowly slip away to the next stage of existence. I often wonder why everyone can’t be healed. Where is their miracle? When I begin to get frustrated and angry because of such thoughts, I direct my mind to the very purpose of our time here on earth as defined by my faith in Jesus Christ. I believe one of the greatest gifts we have received from our Creator is time. It’s our inheritance. What we do with time affects generations.

I should warn you that I'm going to get deeper into this subject. Now's the time to visit another blog if you don't like religion.

I find comfort in knowing there is an omniscient loving Father in Heaven who is keenly aware of each of us and our personal trials and will not allow his children to die before their appointed time. God, after all, is omniscient. This means He knows everything.

My hero, Neal A. Maxwell wrote, "God knows even now what the future holds for each of us. In one of his revelations these startling words appear, as with so many revelations that are too big, I suppose, for us to manage fully: "In the presence of God, . . . all things . . . are manifest, past, present, and future, and are continually before the Lord" (D&C 130:7). The future "you" is before him now. He knows what it is he wishes to bring to pass in your life. He knows the kind of remodeling in your life and in mine that he wishes to achieve. Now, this will require us to believe in that divine design and at times to accept the truth that his suffering would be "but a small moment" (D&C 121:7).

Job, who suffered beyond comprehension recorded in the Bible “For I know that thou will bring me to death, and to the house appointed for all living.” He’s talking about going from this life to another. He’s talking about an appointed death. Do we really have an appointment with death? As the prophet Alma said, “It was appointed unto men that they must die. “ (Alma 12:27)

The ironies of life began in the Garden of Eden where our first parents were given a choice. The prophet Moses taught that in the beginning, God, our mysterious Father in Heaven, told our first parents Adam and Eve, to multiply and replenish the earth. However, he also told them not to partake of the forbidden fruit placed in the middle of the Garden of Eden, “For in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” (Genesis 2:17)

Why would God ask them to do two things that completely contradict each other? It is my personal opinion that Eve chose to partake of the fruit and encouraged her husband to do the same because she loved the Lord Jesus Christ who the devil impersonated in the garden as a serpent and offered her the forbidden fruit.

In scripture, the serpent is both a symbol of God and the Devil. In the allegory of the Garden of Eden the serpent symbolized Christ. Remember, Moses also used the symbol of a brass serpent to represent God as he brought the Israelites out of Egypt. Those who looked to the serpent were saved in the wilderness. Moses wrote Genesis at first told the story of Adam and Eve.

Artwork: Moses with the brazen serpent on the Tau or T-cross

In Eve's innocence she was deceived because she would do anything God asked her to do. I also believe Eve came to understand that Heavenly Father was introducing the powerful principle of choice and agency to mankind.

I believe there are those in life who choose to act, and those to wait to be acted upon. Adam and Eve acted and brought forth children to enjoy all of the blessings of a natural world. However, because they partook of the forbidden fruit they became mortal and inherited the power to die. All of their posterity, including you and me, has that same power. Its part of a much larger plan of our Heavenly Father to give us bodies, allow us an opportunity to learn and grow from living in this natural world, and bring us back into His presence. "And thus we see, that there was a time granted unto man to repent, yea, a probationary time, a time to repent and served God." (Alma 42: 4)

“Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.” (2 Nephi 2:25)

“Behold he created Adam, and by Adam came the fall of man. And because of the fall of man came Jesus Christ, even the Father and the Son; and because of Jesus Christ came the redemption of man. And because of the redemption of man, which came by Jesus Christ, they are brought back into the presence of the Lord; yea, this is wherein all men are redeemed, because of the death of Christ bringeth to pass the resurrection, which bringeth to pass a redemption from an endless sleep, from which sleep all men shall be awakened by the power of God when the trump shall sound; and they shall come forth, both small and great, and all shall stand before his bar, being redeemed and loosed from this eternal band of death, which death is temporal death.” (Mormon 9:13)

"Now, concerning the state of the soul between death and the resurrection—Behold, it has been made known unto me by an angel, that the spirits of all men, as soon as they are departed from this mortal body, yea, the spirits of all men, whether they be good or evil, are taken home to that God who gave them life. And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits of those who are righteous are received into a state of happiness, which is called paradise a state of rest, a state of peace where they shall rest from all their troubles and from all care, and sorrow." (Alma 40:11-12)

“And when ye have lifted up the Son of Man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father have taught me, I speak these things. And he that sent me is with me; the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.” (John 8:28-29)

"Behold, he bringeth to pass the resurrection of the dead. Behold, there is a time appointed that all shall come forth from the dead. Now when this time cometh no one knows; but God knoweth the time which is appointed." (Alma 40:3-4)

Those who love and adore Holly find it hard to say goodbye, but because of God's beautiful plan of redemption, she will move on and it won't be long before it's our turn to go forward where we will be reunited with our friend.

Once again, I realize this is heavy doctrine, but I firmly believe with every irony in life one can look to the teachings of Jesus for answers. In His teachings, I have found great comfort and understanding about the role of suffering in God’s eternal plan.

Read Dave & Julie's blog http://www.lungsforjulie.com

New Life debuts #1 Billboard's top 25 New Age Albums

2011-03-03T16:10:00.001-07:00

I began recording albums independently almost twenty years ago. I later signed a recording contract with Virgin Record’s Narada label, one of the most well respected new age record labels. Their team was able to get my Christmas Box album listed as the #23rd best-selling new age album of 1999. Since then, I’ve had several recordings debut in the top 10 including Primary Worship, The Hymns Collection, and Sacred Piano. I never dreamed of having a #1 album until joining the Shadow Mountain team this past year.

Today, the prestigious Billboard Magazine reported my new album, New Life, as the #1 new age album in the world. This really has nothing to do with me, but has everything to do with those of you who have supported me and purchased my music. It also has everything to do with Deseret Book and the amazing team of people associated with their company.

It’s become quite clear that if Shadow Mountain Records releases a classical or new age recording it will debut in the top 5 with names like Josh Groban, Yanni, Enya, John Williams, Yo-Yo Ma, and much more. Deseret Book is quickly becoming one of the most respected forces in media, which can no longer be ignored. I am humbled and honored to be associated with all of you.

I want to thank everyone for helping us achieve this monumental accomplishment. This would never have happened without your support and loyalty. To Bob Ahlander and the Shadow Mountain team, you believed this would happen and you made it happen. I am grateful for your faith in my music and in its message of peace, love, and hope.

Again, thank you everyone for your hard work and unified efforts. Together, we have a #1 album.

Youth Leading By Example

2011-02-25T12:40:00.004-07:00

In the heart of the Salt Lake Valley are thousands of young men and young women who recently committed their time to making a difference in the lives of those affected by congenital heart disease.

Both Brighton High and Jordan High School students devoted two months to raising money and awareness for The Paul Cardall Family Foundation. Whether it was buying a faculty parking spot, heart cookies made by other students, or joining a "Call of Duty" video game tournament, students turned out in droves to help do what they can.

(Presenting a check for $16,000 to Paul Cardall for CHD at the New Life Concert)

Needless, to say I was impressed and overwhelmed by their efforts. Franklin D. Roosevelt said, "We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future." It's quite obvious, the youth in my community are already leading by example.

(Presenting a check for $15,000 to Paul Cardall for CHD at the New Life Concert)

Every single penny generously donated has the power to directly affect the lives of families associated with congenital heart disease. Our foundation, which my wife Lynnette and I started after I received a heart transplant and an overwhelming embrace of community support, has no paid employees and is devoted to provide education, fund research, and assist fellow organizations and individuals associated with congenital heart disease and other related congenital disorders. Funds acquired go directly to the following:

1. Scholarships

2. Public and private awareness and general education to help bring greater attention to congenital heart disease patients in an effort to prevent premature death, prolong the health and well-being of congenital patients.

3. Seed money for Federal grants associated with selective research projects making a difference in the lives of patients.

4. Financial aid to organized support groups dedicated to strengthening the emotional, mental, and spiritual lives of patients and families.

Again, our foundation greatly appreciates your support and all of the support students worked so hard to make a difference.

My New Life

2011-02-15T16:14:00.001-07:00

Therapists and some doctors suggest people should not make any major decisions until a year after experiencing a dramatizing event. I completely ignored this advice. Looking back, I never stopped moving. I made all sorts of decisions in an effort to shout out to the world my gratitude for life and how grateful we all should be for the time we have been allotted by a loving God.

I must admit, they may have been right because at times I do feel like life is out of control. Maybe that means I'm normal. Regardless, we all experience ups and downs.

I'm grateful for Carma Wadley of the Deseret News who wrote a beautiful piece that has helped me put my life into perspective. Whether the article inspired readers, I don't know. But it certainly has helped me focus much deeper on why I do what I do. Who needs a therapist to explain your life to you when you have a wonderful journalist like Carma?

Benefit celebrates musician's 'New Life'

By Carma Wadley

Deseret News

Published: Saturday, Feb. 12, 2011 4:00 p.m. MST

It's not just about the heart — the one he was never sure he would get in time — although, that, certainly, is part of it.

But it's also about knowing that someone else had to die so that he could live.

It's about learning to live in a world without a beloved brother, who was killed in a tragic incident. It's about learning more of the depth of character and faith of his wife and family.

It's about being able to go hiking and camping and to Disneyland. It's about developing a deeper relationship with a kind and loving Father in Heaven.

It's about burdens of grief and guilt, but also about the lift of unspeakable hope and joy.

In short, it's about finding a new life.

"There have been so many emotions," Paul Cardall says of the 16-month journey since he received a heart transplant.

As a musician and composer, it is natural that he expresses those emotions through music, which he has done in a new CD, "New Life" (Shadow Mountain Music).

But he also found that it didn't come easy. In all the time he spent in the hospital, Cardall only wrote one song. He would go out to the piano in the lobby in Primary Children's Medical Center every night, but he would find himself playing the same song over and over, a song he called "New Life."

"For me" he says, "music, opens a conduit to heaven and provides my soul with strength and peace. That's what 'New Life' did for me."

After the transplant came through and recovery was assured, there was a benefit "Celebration of Life" concert to put together, and then a book, "Before My Heart Stops Beating" to finish up. There were hikes to go on and activities to plan of things that had not been possible before. There were trips around the country to speak at hospitals and to young patients suffering from congenital heart disease, the nation's number one birth defect.

But there was little new music.

"I would sit at the piano, but I would feel like I wasn't ready. I couldn't write anything new."

Continue the Article

Concert This Coming Monday: Auction Items!

2011-02-08T09:30:00.013-07:00

It's national heart month and with only 6 days to go before the big Celebrate Life concert and benefit auction in Salt Lake City at Cottonwood High on Valentines Day, I'm excited to share with you a partial list of some of the donated auction items that will help support families and organizations associated with Congenital Heart Disease.

Tickets can be purchased through Smithstix.com and will also be available the night of the show at Cottonwood High School at face value.

Events begin at 6:30 pm with the silent auction.

Some of the fun items include;

EDUCATION

A Full Tuition Waiver to attend Salt Lake Community College
(beginning bid at $750)

SPORTS

Watch Booze Looze in Chicago: JAZZ vs. BULLS
Bid on this round trip ticket for you and a friend to enjoy two nights at the Hyatt Regency in the HEART of Chicago, and 6th row tickets in the Bulls Arena (March 11-13th)

Autographed UTAH JAZZ BALL
2010/2011 Team

Paul Millsap
Autographed Jersey

Utah Grizzlies
VIP Suite for 14 on Feb. 15th

Utah Golf Championship
VIP passes

and much more

KIDS
DRESS UPS GALORE!
and much more

ART

Anthony Romrell
The Heart of the Master Original Art

Melinda Smith
In Between Seasons Original Art

Curtis Hendrickson
Original Piece

and much more

The Paul Cardall Family Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization devoted to spreading public awareness, provide education, fund research, and assist fellow organizations and individuals associated with congenital heart disease and other related congenital disorders.

NO PAID EMPLOYEES

100% Volunteer Service

100% of all public & private donations directly benefit families and organizations associated with Congenital Heart Disease and other related disorders.

FUNDS DONATED PRODUCE:

Scholarships

Public and private awareness and general education to help bring greater attention to congenital heart disease patients in an effort to prevent premature death, prolong the health and well-being of congenital patients.

Selective research projects making a difference in the lives of patients.

Financial aid to organized support groups dedicated to strengthening the emotional, mental, and spiritual lives of patients and families.

Approved by the United States Department of The Treasury and Internal Revenue Service. Public and Private Contributions to the Foundation are deductible under section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code.

Skiing at Snowbird

2011-02-06T21:29:00.003-07:00

If you'll pardon me, I wanted to share this post my wife Lynnette Cardall
put on our private blog for family.

We went up to Snowbird again this year with our friends the Ruggles. Paul was a patient with their daughter Stephanie more than 20 years ago. This time we stayed a couple of days at the lodge and skied for 3 days. It was a blast! Eden is getting better at skiing and it is still so thrilling to be able to ski with Paul....still such a dream...I love it!

Most of the gang!

Lessons from Mom

Lessons from patient Cary

Hangin' on the lift with dad!

One of the days it was beautiful and warm so we peeled off our coats and enjoyed the sun!

Making snow angels!!!

Taking a break!

Paul is really enjoying this skiing business and he has loved making up for lost time!

Little ski bunnies!

About to Release First Album Since Heart Tranaplant

2011-02-02T13:38:00.000-07:00

Watch the Interview on Good Things Utah

Print Story

Published: 10:46 am
KTVX ABC4 Utah, February 2, 2011

On Valentines Paul Cardall will release his first full length studio album since his heart transplant. Properly titled NEW LIFE Cardall says, "Fans will relate to this personal soundtrack of transcribed emotions I experienced while recovering from a difficult period of my life."

The pianist is at his best in the various delicate and tender compositions accompanied by breathtaking strings and elements of acoustic guitar.

Paul will debut his heartfelt album at his 2nd annual Celebrate Life Concert. For more information visit paulcardall.com

National Heart Month

2011-02-01T15:40:00.001-07:00

Every year since 1964 American Presidents have declared February as National Heart Month. Today, President Barack Obama reiterated this tradition asking Governors of the States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, officials of other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and the American people to join him in recognizing and reaffirming our commitment to fighting cardiovascular disease.

Read the official press release from the White House

Primary Children's patients ‘Movin' On Up' - ksl.com

2011-01-26T22:38:00.002-07:00

Primary Children's patients ‘Movin' On Up'

January 26th, 2011 @ 10:18pm

By Ed Yeates

SALT LAKE CITY -- Children with life-long medical conditions need mom and dad's support to help keep them alive, but what happens when the parents aren't around anymore?

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Primary Children's Medical Center has launched a new program that's actually helping kids sever those ties -- for good reason!

Two brothers, Ethan and Devon Galland, are "Movin' On Up." That's the name of the project to help them make the transition away from mom and dad so they can take care of their own medical conditions.

Six years ago, Ethan got a donated kidney from his dad. The year before, Devon got a kidney transplant from his mom. While both were born with the same congenital disease, it's rare each parent was able to donate a kidney to each child.

Lessons Learned

2011-01-18T18:42:00.002-07:00

I'm continuing to learn beautiful things from the dying who believe in God. These humble people, who have had no choice but to become reliant on the help of others, have a tender innocence that only comes to those who recognize this life is not all there is. These who walk the paths of suffering find strength within to adapt to their circumstances because they know life exists beyond the grave.

For myself, I came to know this truth in my own journey, which for me has become nothing more than a grand gift from a loving Father in Heaven. Through it all He taught me valuable lessons that can only be understood by those who seek to know His will for them.

Less than a week ago I visited a good friend of mine in the intensive care unit. Holly has been denied a heart transplant by various clinics across America because of additional complications associated with other issues in her body. She does not have long.

Photo: Holly & Quintin McKell
Visit Holly's CareBridge Page

Living with severe heart failure, Holly's body swells up with fluid and at times she looks 8 months pregnant. Doctors ordered a test to help relieve her of some of the bodily fluid. According to her family, as Holly was talking and laughing with nurses and doctors about her time in Australia with her husband her heart stopped for several minutes. Apparently, she died for several minutes until medical personal worked a miracle that put her into a temporary coma. She later woke up with some memory loss and confusion.

I entered Holly's room to see her smiling. There was a special feeling of love in the room as though unseen relatives from beyond the grave crowded her bedside. She was also surrounded by her living family including her loyal husband, parents, and two sisters. They are extremely supportive.

Photo: Spending time with Holly

Holly is teaching us important principles.

First, this is a beautiful woman who always smiles. Even if she tries to get mad she can't do it without smiling. It's almost contagious. She is quite obviously suffering from the various needles and procedures. Yet she can't seem to wipe that smile off her face. Smiling is a cure for the contentious spirit of selfish behavior. An optimistic glance from another human being makes those they come in contact feel valuable.

Secondly, this is a woman who knows and trusts her Heavenly Father, the Creator of this world. She has faith. Often we question God and wonder why this and why that? However, at this stage in Holly's life she is completely submissive to the Creator's will for her future.

Overall, this remarkable person has found comfort and strength amidst what the world would view as the end. This is where the world is wrong! Life is not the end and the smile on Holly's face and the light in her eyes reflect this truth.

______________________

When my wife and I first moved into our ward or local congregation I remember attending the various meetings with a gentleman who was assigned to conduct the church hymns. Often he performed with a male quartet singing "Brightly Beams." As a fellow musician we've been friends and have had many conversations on music. Over the years he's dealt with cancer, the destructive enemy of the body. He knows the meaning of the word pain.

Weeks ago our neighborhood learned this kind man without guile is dying of end-stage cancer. He told me, "I'm fine. It's those around me that I worry about." Where does a man acquire such faith and peace? I believe it comes from years of loyalty to living principles of loving others unconditionally, sharing his time and talents to benefit others, and dedication to helping people.

Whenever I sing "Brightly Beams" I will think of my fellow musician friend who continues to spend his time helping others.

Brightly beams our Father’s mercy
From his lighthouse evermore,
But to us he gives the keeping
Of the lights along the shore.

Let the lower lights be burning;
Send a gleam across the wave.
Some poor fainting, struggling seaman
You may rescue, you may save.

SLCC Full Ride Scholarship DUE March 1, 2011

2011-01-10T19:19:00.001-07:00

APPLY TODAY:

The Paul Cardall Scholarship for Students Affected by Congenital Disorders was established in 2010 by SLCC alumnus Paul Cardall, who was born with a complex congenital heart defect and received a heart transplant on 09-09-09. The costs associated with a chronic illness are understandably high. The Paul Cardall Family Foundation wishes to help those who have been affected by congenital disorders (congenital heart disease, spina bifida, Down syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome, cystic fibrosis and other birth defects) to obtain an education at SLCC.

This scholarship is available to residents of the Rocky Mountain Region who have been diagnosed with congenital disorders, or whose children have been diagnosed with congenital disorders. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and be degree or certificate-seeking students at Salt Lake Community College, and enroll in at least 9 credit hours, but not more than 18 credit hours, in an eligible program. Successful applicants will have demonstrated courage and character in their response to the challenge of congenital disorders.

This $3,000 scholarship ($1,500 per semester) may be used for tuition, fees and books. The scholarship will be awarded in spring 2011 for the 2011-12 academic years.

APPLY TODAY:
http://www.slcc.edu/financialaid/scholarships/11-12_Paul_Cardall_application_Congenital_2011_12.pdf

A New Life, A New Album

2011-01-07T21:48:00.008-07:00

I handed a copy of my new piano album, that doesn’t hit the stores until Valentines Day, to my 91-year-old grandmother. She has a sophisticated ear and enjoys quality music. I have great love and respect for her opinion. If she’s pleased I feel a greater sense of confidence in letting the public have my art.

When I handed the disc of new music to Grandma she had no song titles or additional information about the project. I didn’t’ even have a title.

Yesterday, after a month of listening to the master copy she said, “The pieces are about your recovery, aren’t they?” She could feel the instrumental music and it spoke the message without words to her heart. I said, “Yes, it’s about the emotions I’ve experienced after the miracle of God and trying to comprehend all of the irony associated with my survival.”

How does a composer create music after going through a rather unusual ordeal of life and death? I was deeply worried about this and a cause for some stress.

Although I performed and spoke in many cities, it wasn’t until a year after the transplant that I entered a recording studio for the first time.

Having met so many wonderful people experiencing similar health challenges or enduring overwhelming obstacles, ideas or themes flooded my soul and I was finally able to transfer emotions of grief, sadness, joy, gratitude, and humility, into a collection of more than 10 powerful piano compositions accompanied by tender orchestrations.

Photo: My daughter Eden visiting me in studio during the New Life project

New Life is the album. February 14th is the release date. Not only is this a deeply personal album, but also I believe it will be very healing to listeners in search of greater peace and spiritual strength in their own lives.

I am anxious to perform this new music with a small orchestra at my 2nd annual celebrate life concert on Valentines Day. I look forward to having those of you in the Salt Lake City area join us for this unique show.

For more information
http://www.paulcardall.com

My Dad is Retiring,

2010-12-31T10:56:00.006-07:00

Click on Segment 3 to Watch the story about my Dad.

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Photo: Sitting with my father in Primary Children's Medical Center waiting for my heart transplant in August 2009.

After 42 years working as a broadcast journalist my father is retiring. Being self employed I can't begin to imagine the feeling of walking away from the corporate scenario. Needless to say, he is a man of integrity, loved his work, and remained loyal to KSL Television in Salt Lake City for 38 years.

I wrote about his interesting experiences traveling the world reporting history as it unfolded in my book, Before My Heart Stops. The chapter is properly titled "Son of A Newsman."

Olympian Shaun White talks life with Congenital Heart Disease

2010-12-30T10:00:00.002-07:00

Shaun and I both have parents with similar views. We love them for it.

My top 7 memories of 2010

2010-12-29T19:11:00.009-07:00

My top 7 memories of 2010

7. Performing in front of a Sold Out Crowd at Abravanel Hall, raising money for CHD.

6. Publishing my story, Before My Heart Stops,and meeting many families affected by CHD along the way.

5. Standing on the peak of Mount Olympus with family and friends.

4. Camping with my family and friends in Ephraim, Forest Park, and more.

3. Recording a new album for Feb. 2011, the soundtrack to my New Life.

2. Taking my family to Disneyworld. Eden, my 4-yr-old at the time, insisted we go on the Tall Tower of Terror. (We had no idea what this ride was. They should call it child abuse)

1. Falling deeper in love with my wife.

Grateful for Time

2010-11-24T13:31:00.005-07:00

As the holiday season approaches I am grateful for time.

“Until you value yourself, you won't value your time. Until you value your time, you will not do anything with it,” said M. Scott Peck, world-renowned psychiatrist and author of The Road Less Traveled.

Meanwhile, dramatist and creator of Peter Pan, Sir James Matthew Barrie said of time, “You must have been warned against letting the golden hours slip by; but some of them are golden only because we let them slip by.”

Photo: Time well spent (me and my daughter Eden)

No one knows how much time we have. I said in my book, Before My Heart Stops, “There is no expiration date on our birth certificates.”

I often wonder if it has been better to be warned that we are going to die by having a terminal illness or to have no warning at all?

Regardless, we have the now. We have today. We find good counsel in the known phrase, “Don’t put off ‘til tomorrow what you can do today.” Yet in a tone of pause and reflection we have the sarcastic wisdom of Mark Twain’s statement, “Never put off till tomorrow what you can do the day after tomorrow.”

Whatever our busy lives are consumed with may we take time in our daily routine, after the kids are put to bed, while they’re playing, or when we have a moment at work or in our car before we drive home to take the time to pause, reflect, and meditate on who we are as children of a loving God and what we want to do before we return to Him.

One of my spiritual heroes and 9th President of the LDS Church, David O’ Mckay said, "Meditation is the language of the soul. It is defined as a form of private devotion, or spiritual exercise, consisting in deep, continued reflection on some religious theme. Meditation is a form of prayer." Later he said, "Meditation is one of the most secret, most sacred doors through which we pass into the presence of the Lord."

Here is 3 minutes of peace to enjoy before the holiday rush sets in.

A Tribute to One of My Heroes, Russell M. Nelson

2010-11-16T11:10:00.014-07:00

I met a woman who has worked in an operating room with many cardiovascular surgeons. When I asked if she ever worked with the legendary Russell M. Nelson she said he was her favorite.

I asked what was unique about him? She said, "He never lost his temper or swore." She asked him about that. She said, "He told me that early on in his career he made a vow never to show any sign of discouragement or lack of self control since he was the leader of the operation and it was about the patient and not about himself."

Photo: Russell M. Nelson poses in dress uniform during military service. He served as first lieutenant in Army Medical Corps from 1951-53.

Who is this remarkable man?

Before he became an internationally renowned surgeon he was a medical student from Utah busy working in 1951 with a small team of people at the University of Minnesota Hospital on a device that would revolutionize open heart surgery.

After years of trial and error this unique team would successfully create the first heart lung machine making it possible to circulate and oxygenate blood for the body while bypassing the heart and lungs. Because of this technology millions of lives would be saved. I am one of those many.

Nelson would work as a surgeon during the Korean War, studying at Harvard, and finally earning his Phd from the University of Minnesota.

This gifted young man was encouraged by many of his colleagues and professors to stay back East and work. They said there was nothing back in Utah for him and he was too talented as a heart surgeon to work in the middle of nowhere.

Photo: Original Heart Lung Machine on Display in London

In 1955 Dr. Nelson decided he would go home because of his unique heritage and faith. His family descended from Mormon pioneers who were forced out of Missouri in 1856 because Mormon converts in those days gathered into one area forming a strong community. They had become too strong politically and preached anti-slavery prior to the Civil War among other controversial issues. Above all, and outside of the passion for his faith, Utah was his home.

Nelson returned to Salt Lake City in 1955 and was initially on the academic staff of the College of Medicine at the University of Utah, where in November of that year. While working as an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Utah Medical School, Elder Nelson worked at the Salt Lake County Hospital and built his own twin pump heart-lung machine. His research helped Utah to become the third state in the nation where open heart surgery was performed.

In March 1956, Nelson performed the first successful pediatric cardiac operation at the Salt Lake County Hospital, a total repair of tetralogy of Fallot in a four-year-old girl. In 1959, he joined the staff of the Salt Lake Clinic, became associated with the LDS Hospital, and continued to make major contributions to the development of the thoracic specialty both in the clinical sciences and as the second director of the residency program.

Nelson's surgical volume was sufficiently large that it was a critical component of the residents' experience. He was an innovative and facile surgeon responsible for many improvements in cardiac operations. He also established a research laboratory at LDS Hospital.

Learn More about this remarkable man in his biography. A wonderful history of faith and medicine.

By the late 1960s, Nelson's experience with artificial aortic valve implantation was such that he was able to report a large series of patients with an exceptionally low operative mortality.

I believe that today people like me are living longer because of this remarkable man who chose to return home.

His colleague Conrad Jensen operated on me in 1973. Dr. Nelson brought Dr. Jensen to Utah as a partner and later another partner Donald Doty who did my difficult heart surgeries in my teenage years.

I love that I can trace my good health back to a man devoted to his faith, family, and love for medicine.

This wonderful doctor, internationally well respected, who physically healed many hearts left his practice decades ago after receiving a call from President Spencer W. Kimball, then the presiding authority in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. President Kimball asked Doctor Nelson to be one of the Twelve apostles in the Mormon faith with the full-time responsibility of spiritually healing hearts according to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Thank you Elder Russell M. Nelson for blessing my life. Watch Elder Nelson describe the Human Heart in this brief video.

Valve Replacements without Opening the Chest

2010-11-16T10:42:00.000-07:00

New procedure at Primary Children's Medical Center implants pulmonary valve without surgery

by Lois M. Collins, Deseret News
Published: Monday, Nov. 15, 2010 10:24 p.m. MST

SALT LAKE CITY — If you've got the right technology, it's easier to bounce back from a broken heart. Just ask Charli Noyes, 20, who was anxious to hold her toddler son on Monday, just days after having her pulmonary valve replaced in a new, nonsurgical procedure at Primary Children's Medical Center. Because doctors didn't have to open her chest or her heart for traditional pulmonary valve replacement surgery, the young mother went home the next day.

"I'm learning to dance to a whole new heartbeat," quipped Noyes, of Sunset, a veteran of heart operations and medical devices. She was born with a group of congenital heart defects that together are called a Tetralogy of Fallot. She had her first of two open-heart surgeries at 14 months. She's had three pacemakers, at least six cardiac catheterizations and had a valve "ballooned" once to improve its function. That's why, as an adult, she is being treated at Primary Children's, where she's had all of her previous procedures done.

Continue the article

Paul Cardall Family Foundation Promo Video

2010-11-09T14:52:00.001-07:00

Watch the 1st promotional video for our family foundation for congenital disorders.

Caring Connections

2010-11-07T19:34:00.005-07:00

Caring Connections, a "hope and comfort in grief" program at the University Of Utah College Of Nursing asked me to speak and play my music last week to a large body of families who have lost loved ones.

This was no easy task because I continue to grieve family and friends who left this world during the past two years. I spent the evening trying to offer hope and perspective. I wish I had played more music. It has always helped me and maybe it could have helped those in attendance.

During moments of discouragement I find strength to go forward with faith by surrounding myself with others who love God. You'll know these people by their character because they are kind and friendly to everyone whether they affiliate with an organized body of religion or not.

I believe ultimately the gateway to freedom from depression and grief is through continual service to our family, friends, and who-ever will take our hand and let us pick them up.

Utah High School Raising Money for Foundation

2010-11-04T14:58:00.000-06:00

(SLC, UT) Brighton High School has selected the Paul Cardall Family Foundation for Congenital Disorders as their charity for 2010-2011 school year. Students will raise money for the charity under the direction of their student government.

This morning student leaders talked about our organization and what their plans are to raise funds. During the 2 part assembly an auction was held and thousands of dollars were committed by students; i.e. purchase a full year of parking in the faculty parking lot, and many more great ideas.

On Valentines Day, Feb. 14, 2011 at the 2nd Annual Celebrate Life Concert and Silent Auction, Brighton student leaders will present the final check to the foundation. GO BRIGHTON!!!

For Concert Celebraton tickets visit:
http://smithstix.com/events/item/root/paul-cardall

Other school also involved in this program is Jordan High. We are grateful for these 2 schools and their devotion to making a difference!

Our foundation has no paid employees. Every penny goes to improve the lives of families affected by congenital heart disease. Last year we helped various families by providing financial support. This year funds will go toward research, education, and dispersed among other organizations who have a specific need or call to action that makes a major difference in the lives of these folks.

http://foundation.paulcardall.com

TICKETS on Sale NOVEMBER 1st

2010-10-25T14:57:00.003-06:00

The 2nd Annual Celebrate Life Concert & Silent Auction benefiting Congenital Heart Disease on Valentines at Cottonwood High School in Salt Lake City, Utah

Join award-winning pianist Paul Cardall for the perfect Valentine evening as his foundation presents his 2nd annual Celebrate Life Concert and Silent Auction benefiting Congenital Heart Disease. Special Guest Charley Jenkins.

Date: 2011-02-14
Time: 6:30 PM Auction/7:30 PM Event
Ticket Price: $18 Balcony/$20 Floor

Special Information: On Sale: November 1 @ 10am. Silent auction begins at 6:30pm and the concert starts at 7:30pm.

BUY TICKETS:

http://smithstix.com/events/item/root/paul-cardall

Gone Fishing

2010-10-19T22:53:00.010-06:00

New life restores childhood dreams.

Having once been unable to endure exercise at high altitudes, I've grabbed up every opportunity to take off with friends into the mountains and on the streams.

This was the perfect scenario this past weekend as I took a break from my book tour to be with cousins and an uncle in beautiful British Columbia on the Chilliwack River.

Catching and releasing a Chum Salmon or Dog Salmon

My cousin Tyler. I watched him bring in Silver Salmon all day long.

There's nothing like breathing pristine mountain air while watching the sunlight dance on the rippling waters at first dawn and later seeing the light fade into shades of orange as the sun slowly moves across the western horizon and hide's his face.

A Perfect Test and a Historic Climb

2010-10-11T17:12:00.005-06:00

The lab results came back really good according to my transplant team who had me undergo the official "1 year out" transplant tests.

Doctors did a routine biopsy where they inserted a long thin instrument through the jugular vein in my neck and removed a small piece of heart tissue from my right ventricle to test for any sign of rejection. While I was on the operating table for the biopsy doctors also inserted another long thin instrument through the femoral artery in my right groin and shot some dye into the chambers of my heart to check for pressures and other helpful things. This is called a cardiac catheterization.

The following day I got on an airplane to Houston for the event with families affected by Congenital Heart Disease. Obviously, these procedures are critical and dangerous but most folks are back to work and responsibilities. We've come very far in how with medical technology and helping people feel hardly any pain.

More than ever, I am continuing to enjoy the mountains where altitude sickness used to keep me from the high altitudes. I'm fly fishing, hiking a trail, or camping overnight. I continue to look back on my journey up mount Olympus with family and friends in honor of my brother Brian.

Lately, I've been sharing this video with people when I go out and speak. I thought it only appropriate to share it here and I encourage you to listen to the words of the song from Kutless.

Granted a Second Life

2010-10-07T08:45:00.005-06:00

Looking out of my Marriot hotel room window I see an air-med helicopter take flight off the roof of Methodist Hospital. In the distance stands Texas Children’s Hospital known as one of America’s top 10 pediatric hospitals. Everywhere I go in this section of downtown Houston people are wearing scrubs, nice suits, and appear to be headed to an important meeting. I see a curiosity and determination in these faces to make a difference in the lives of families affected by illness.

Last evening as part of my book tour I met with a several families affected by congenital heart disease as well as a few close friends living in Houston. We shared our stories and discussed advancements in medical technology, surgical options, faith in God, and our gratitude for the facilities helping to keep our children alive or their kindness in helping us through the loss of our children.

One mother shared her love for her son Byron who has numerous complications associated with his heart, lungs, trachea, and other parts of his body. She has spent a lot of time at her sons bedside. Her son statistically should not be alive. After undergoing a wide range of surgical procedures Byron is alive and a wonderful blessing to his mother and older brother. She said with great faith, “He’s my miracle. With God all things are possible.”

I echo her statement.

On the flip side I continue to meet so many parents who have lost children and wonder why there was no miracle with their child. This is a very good question.

Shortly after my heart transplant I had a conversation with my anesthesiologist. He is a man of faith. He said, “Medical diagnosis and statistics often tells us whether a child is going to live or die as a result from surgery. Too often, no matter how well we operate the child expected to survive goes into cardiac arrest or has some other complication causing the death to happen unexpectedly. Whereas, too often when our diagnosis and statistics tells us there is no way a child should make it through the surgery and yet they miraculously make it, we are ever more convinced that someone else, some divine power is clearly in charge of our lives.” His statement has given me great comfort because even most medical personnel are convinced God exists. They see His work happen in the hospital room. This also comforts me because I believe He is there to take that child home with Him for a greater purpose.

Artwork by David Bowman

Last September, as I was wheeled off to a surgical procedure doctors were determined to do all they can to remove an old enlarged scarred heart struggling to beat inside my chest giving me life. It was challenging. Odds were not in my favor. I was not expected to survive. Surgeons operated anyways. At some point during this sobering event the heart that had kept me alive for 36 years finally stopped and was removed from my body. Technically, I died. However, for some reason God gave me permission to stay and through his children operating in that room with all of their talents and inspired gifts, I was granted a second life.

Some go. Some stay. Ultimately, it is love that is stronger than death. Love can’t stop death from happening, but no matter how hard death tries it can’t separate people from love. It can’t take away our memories either. In the end, life is stronger than death. I believe life continues after death and our loved ones become a great motivator from the other side.

Do Heart Transplants change ones personality?

2010-09-27T16:22:00.021-06:00

So, I sold my "lemon" BMW with my old heart and with the new heart bought a big Toyota tundra truck. With a truck, I stopped listening to Coldplay and now I can't get enough country music from Jamey Johnson, so what is going on? Is this really me?

According to a research study from Quality Life Research, Heart transplantation is not simply a question of replacing an organ that no longer functions. The heart is often seen as source of love, emotions, and focus of personality traits.

To gain insight into the problem of whether transplant patients themselves feel a change in personality after having received a donor heart, 47 patients who were transplanted over a period of 2 years in Vienna, Austria, were asked for an interview.

Photos: Taking my daughter Eden fishing for the first time months ago

Three groups of patients could be identified: 79% stated that their personality had not changed at all postoperative, meaning after the transplant surgery. In this group, patients showed massive defense and denial reactions, mainly by rapidly changing the subject or making the question ridiculous.

Fifteen per cent stated that their personality had indeed changed, but not because of the donor organ, but due to the life-threatening event.

Six per cent (three patients) reported a distinct change of personality due to their new hearts. These incorporation fantasies forced them to change feelings and reactions and accept those of the donor.

Verbatim statements of these heart transplant recipients show that there seem to be severe problems regarding graft incorporation, which are based on the age-old idea of the heart as a center that houses feelings and forms the personality. 1

I don't believe my personality has changed although I have been greatly influenced by circumstances surrounding my transplant, which includes a more adventurous life.

Even though I only had a single ventricle I experienced all the joys of childhood. I was fortunate because my heart defect didn't limit me or at least I didn't think so.

I loved the outdoors which included; camping, fishing, hiking, and hunting. My extended family gathered every summer in the mountains of Wyoming and periodically we'd stay at a cabin in the Uintahs. I learned to Ski and looked forward to each snow fall. I was an Eagle Scout and had earned the coveted Mile Swim badge.

However, this adventurous life was taken from me in my fourteenth year after getting a bacterial infection in my heart. This required a difficult surgery. The following year I had reconstructive heart surgery. Because of the circumstances I lost the energy I once knew. Exercising in high altitudes caused me severe nausea. I quickly learned skiing, hiking, and some of the other things I enjoyed was not possible. It was all a memory for me and I often experienced deep nostalgia and sadness.

I adapted to my new life. Unlike before the reconstructive surgery, crowds now bothered me and I often felt claustrophobia. I turned inward, often felt shy, and learned to enjoy other things. I discovered music, art, writing, and found great purpose in sharing my talents. Eventually, I became more active in school and later the community. Yet, I still missed an active outdoor life.

Then came the heart transplant.

When you're dying you wonder what the possibilities would be if you only had a second chance. I began thinking of all the things I would like to do or try with a four chamber heart.

I made a list. Most of the list involved recreating the memories of my childhood for my girl Eden.

It's been over a year since the transplant and I am finding myself with different tastes in music, art, and how I like to spend my time.

I am free from tubes and illness. My mind is free from thinking I might be leaving this world. I am excited for each new day and dread evenings and sleep.

With each new day, and if there is any personality influence it would be because of my love and respect for two people who have passed on to the other side. One is my donor and the other my younger brother.

My fondest memories of my brother, are times sitting around an evening campfire and waking up so freezing cold in October Brian and I weren't sure if it was worth it to get up to hike the hills. Maybe his influence in my life is what drives me to embrace everything in the natural world?

I think about my donor everyday. Because I didn't know him I'm not sure I have any of his personality traits, but I know he was extremely active and healthy. He loved being outdoors and made friends easily. He enjoyed crowds.

Am I different? Has my personality changed because of my heart transplant? No. But, I believe we are always learning, growing, and gravitating towards new things and old habits. And we are influenced by those we love and those we admire.

I embrace my donor as my own brother and experience the same grief in losing him as I did in losing Brian. Until I am with them, they are welcome to live through me.

1 (B. Bunzel, B. Schmidl-Mohl, A. Grundböck and G. Wollenek, Quality of Life Research, Volume 1, Number 4, 251-256, DOI: 10.1007/BF00435634) Read the Full Article

Inspiring Story

2010-09-23T10:31:00.002-06:00

Heartbeat brings joy to parents of Coppell donor

by GARY REAVES, WFAA
Posted on September 20, 2010 at 11:31 PM
Updated Tuesday, Sep 21 at 6:56 PM

CHANDLER, Arizona — It's sunrise over the Phoenix suburbs. Todd and Tara Storch are here to continue the mission that began in March, the day their 13-year-old daughter Taylor died in a Colorado ski accident.

It was then that the Storches decided to donate Taylor's organs.

Their daughter may be deceased, but her heart beats on in the Valley of the Sun.

"Excited is not the correct or right word," said Todd Storch when asked to describe his feelings before getting a chance to hear Taylor's heartbeat again.

This day has been on Tara's mind since day one (CONTINUE READING)

Sick Children & Cook Children's Medical Center

2010-09-21T09:31:00.009-06:00

Photo: Cook Children's in Ft. Worth, Texas

Last fall, when I was living in Primary Children's Medical Center my surgeon came into my room and we talked about my upcoming heart transplant surgery. With an IV tube into my right arm, oxygen around my face, and other devices surrounding me, I was dying.

Doctor Kaza said something to the extent, "When a heart becomes available, I will work on you as though you were my own brother." This gave me great comfort and strengthened my resolve to survive. Then he gave me counsel. "While you're here among these sick children get out and meet them," he said. "You can give them hope."

As I followed the doctors advice I not only found great happiness in getting to know other patients and their parents, but these patients with all of their challenges and great attitudes inspired me and gave me hope. Their parents made me appreciate all that my own had done for me in sitting by my bedside all those years.

Since that time, I am fortunate to visit other children's hospitals around the country. Last week, I was in St. Louis Children's and this week in Ft. Worth, Texas at Cook Children's Medical Center.

My Tour of St. Louis Children's Hospital

2010-09-19T13:24:00.000-06:00

Deseret News Book Review: Before My Heart Stops

2010-09-19T13:16:00.005-06:00

"Book is a powerful message of faith, love and enduring through life's challenges." -Hikari Loftus, Deseret News.

A section of the review: "For someone to read this, they may think, 'He's got a lot of high expectations and hope. He's overconfident. He thinks that he can make any miracle happen. He has this faith to heal from the transplant.' The truth is, I can't really explain my faith or the will to survive without anyone knowing about my parents or my heritage because I'm a product of my parents and my ancestors who struggled to come to Utah. All that strength and faith, it's been passed down through generations and I'm just one of the products of their hard work," Cardall says.

READ THE REVIEW

Child Inspires Mother and Grandma to Act

2010-09-18T20:12:00.013-06:00

“Grateful for what they have experienced at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, mothers of two generations are making efforts to give back to the hospital.

1st Photo: Me, Rob Aronin, Dana Jewell, Averi Budde, Ryan and Stacee Budde.

Averi Budde, who was born a twin to Adison Budde May 25, 2007, was diagnosed with multiple heart defects.

Five days after her birth, she underwent her first open-heart surgery, which brought many ups and downs over the next few weeks.

Meanwhile, nurses of the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at St. Louis Children’s took full care of the newly born baby to make sure her condition was stable.

Relieved by the dedicated nursing care Averi received during her treatment in the CICU at Children’s, Averi’s mother, Staci Budde, and grandmother, Vicki Isom, decided to “give back to the hospital” to show their gratitude.

2nd Photo Includes; Tim Feltes, Paul Checchia, Dana Jewell, Laura Fowler Watson, Pamela Lovell Piel, Charlotte Smock, Leonard Bailey, Paul Cardall, and others

After talking with CICU manager Jeff Atwood, Isom and Budde decided to create an educational scholarship that would benefit staff professionally and ultimately benefit patients.

The intention materialized in the Averi Budde Foundation, a non-profit organization formed by Isom and Budde to raise money to fund continuing education opportunities for the cardiac nurses.” (West End Word, Beijing Zhu – September 1, 2010)

As part of the Budde's efforts, St. Louis Children’s Hospital hosted the 1st Annual Cardiac Surgery in Children featuring some of the most well known figures in the past, present, and future of congenital heart disease. The speeches were inspiring.

Photo: Meeting a Legend in Pediatric Heart Transplant Surgery, Dr. Leonard Bailey

What a blessing it was for me to be introduced to such historical figures in congenital cardiology, like the following;

One of the kindest men Leonard Bailey, M.D., a gifted surgeon from Loma Linda Hospital, known for the 1984 revolutionary surgery when a baboon heart was transplanted into infant “Baby Fae”. He was called a mad scientist and animal rights activists were not happy, but his efforts led the way for infants to receive heart transplants.

Many of Doctor Bailey patients are now in their twenties and enjoying life. This wonderful man, a father figure to many, had many wonderful things to say about Donald Doty, the cardiovascular thoracic surgeon who operated on me several times. He knew George Veasy and many others who I know from being a patient at Primary Children’s Medical Center.

3rd Photo: Meeting Dr. Peter C. Laussen

Peter C. Laussen, Professor of Anaesthesia at the Harvard Medical School and Chief, Division of Cardiovascular Intensive Care. He discussed invasive monitoring in the cardiac intensive care unit. It was wonderful to hear his comments about my transplant surgeon at Primary Children’s Medical Center, A.K. Kaza who was chief resident of cardiovascular thoracic surgery at Boston Childrens.

There were many more wonderful speakers; Lee Feeter (President St. Louis Childrens), Paul Chechia, MD, Angela Sharkey, MD, Terry Foster, Rn, Joseph Billadello, MD, Timothy Feltes.

I was fortunate to share my story about growing up with CHD.

The highlight for me, in addition to meeting the doctors, was spending time with the many nurses and other staff who care for the children at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Nurses inspire me.

For me, meeting 2-year-old Averi Budde and her family was thrilling. Her father brought her to the event for a few minutes.

I was there when this adorable little girl walked into the Chase Plaza Hotel. I got on my knees to be down so we were eye level. Just above her little dress I pointed to the top edges of her scar, a result of heart surgery. I pointed to my own scar. She got closer and gave me a hug.

Photo: Playing the piano with Averi Budde, fellow cardiac kid

Averi Budde is the light that ignited the powerful event that brought together some of the finest people in the congenital heart world.

Medical personnel where inspired, enriched, educated, and motivated to make a difference in the lives of thousands of children who continue live with and adapt to congenital heart disease.

Learn more about The Averi Budde Foundation at St. Louis Children's Hospital

Save 15% on Before My Heart Stops

2010-09-16T11:07:00.004-06:00

Save 15% at Deseret Book. Click here

Also available where-ever fine music is sold.

Cardiac Surgery in Children's Conference

2010-09-14T21:02:00.004-06:00

When Averi Budde was born in 2007 with congenital heart diesase her mother Staci and grandmother Vicki Isom were impressed by the dedicated nurses in the Cardiac intensive care unit.

As Averi recovered from a delicate open heart surgery the mother-daughter team decided to “give back to the hospital” to show their gratitude.

Together Staci and Vicki created the Averi Budde Foundation, a non-profit organization formed to raise money to fund continuing education opportunities for the cardiac nurses. (I love those cardiac nurses!!)

This Friday I have the fortunate opportunity to meet this wonderful family and all of their associates at the first annual St. Louis Children's Hospital Cardiac Surgery in Children Conference.

The all-day event is designed to educate and/or refresh the knowledge of health care professionals caring for patients undergoing cardiac surgical procedures.

I couldn't be more thrilled to be a small part of this inspiring and sold out event this Friday, September 17th, at the Chase Plaza Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri.

Accompanied me will be cellist Steven Sharp Nelson and guitarist Ryan Tilby of Stone Angel Music, Inc.

Good Things Utah!

2010-09-14T12:16:00.007-06:00

Watch the interview:
http://www.abc4.com/content/about_4/gtu/featured_on/story/Before-My-Heart-Stops-by-Paul-Cardall/S5_l8Ey-zkicat3_h5I7qA.cspx

A Musical Thankyou!

2010-09-13T22:56:00.001-06:00

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Walking for Congenital Heart Disease

2010-09-11T14:49:00.009-06:00

I awoke to a beautiful morning with deep blue skies. I hopped in my truck and headed south to Provo where a crowd of families were gathered in a park outside of Provo, Utah along the majestic Wasatch Mountains.

Intermountain Healing Hearts, a support group formed in September, 2007 for families of children or adults with congenital heart defects (CHD’s) and heart disease hosted their annual Heart Walk.

Along with grandparents, siblings, cousins, and friends, parents walked with their children a poignant 1 mile, some in strollers and on shoulders.

Later, monarch butterflies were released during a special ceremony by families who lost a child to CHD.

I'm continually inspired by the support and love families give one another. These experiences and challenges bind a family together that extends beyond this world.

Bottom Photo: I'm standing with members of Primary Children's Medical Center Cardiology Staff

Studio 5 Discussion

2010-09-08T18:23:00.000-06:00

Promoting Congenital Heart Disease

2010-09-02T18:12:00.008-06:00

Last year at this time I lay dying as a father in a children's hospital wondering if I'd be alive to enjoy my daughter's childhood. Within 7 days, on September 9th, two family's lives would forever change.

My donor would leave his family behind and I would return to my own within weeks.

PHOTO: Months before my heart transplant

The ironic circumstance continues to humble me each waking day as I think about the young man whose heart beats in my chest. I pray I may live worthy of his gift.

Thank God for organ donation. I feel a weight of responsibility. My desire is to uplift and inspire people before my new heart stops.

With renewed energy and a recent biopsy with perfect results, I am anxious to go on my book tour (listed below) to spread awareness of congenital heart disease.

My publisher Shadow Mountain and It's My Heart, a nationally organized CHD movement, have worked very hard to help me share my message of faith, hope, and optimism.

I'm hoping to see many of you during the tour at our events.

Those of you who would like to organize events in your own cities please let us know.

Overall, I am very appreciative of all my friends at the Organ Donation Services, Adult Congenital Heart Association, Intermountain Healing Hearts, Mended Little Hearts, Saving Tiny Hearts, and many more. These folks are doing wonderful things to help the approximately 1.8 million Americans with a congenital heart defect.

PHOTO: After my Heart Transplant

We are making wonderful progress and more children are growing up! We still have much to do.

I'm grateful to be a very small part of giant movement. Hopefully, Before My Heart Stops, can provide an intimate look into the life of one individual with a defective birth heart in need of a transplant.

The Book Tour: www.paulcardall.com/events
I needed a new heart just to keep up with this exciting schedule.

Walk for Healing Hearts in Utah

2010-08-29T21:30:00.003-06:00

For those of you living in Utah associated with congenital heart disease my good friends at Intermountain Healing Hearts are sponsoring their annual heart walk on September 11th. Please come, walk with me and my family, and support this wonderful organization supporting families affected by the #1 birth defect, congenital heart disease.

For more information visit:
http://intermountainhealinghearts.org

What about the 9?

2010-08-27T17:15:00.013-06:00

Occasionally when given the opportunity to speak to christian groups about my journey living with congenital heart disease I share a scripture from the book of Luke that says, "And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God." (St. Luke 17:15)

The beautiful expression of gratitude comes from the story about the ten lepers who asked Jesus to have mercy on them. The Lord told them to go show themselves to the priests and they would be healed. "And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed."

Shortly thereafter, one of the lepers returned and knelt down at the feet of Jesus thanking Him for his kindness. The Lord asks, "Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger." Jesus says to the healed leper, "Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole."

Artwork: Sketch by Rembrandt van Rijn

Since the Lord healed me I've thought deeply about these 10 lepers.

I am inspired by the man who returned and praised God, falling at his feet with tears of gratitude. But, what about the nine? What is their story?

May I suggest a perspective worth considering.

Could it be possible that a few of these nine were so astonished at the miracle and overcome with joy they could not come up with the right way to thank Jesus or it was too late?

Could some may have desperately tried to find a way to return and thank him but Christ had left the city?

Maybe they were discouraged by the mobs of people who surrounded the Savior and couldn't make it through the crowd.

Or did they feel ashamed because of their sins and own insecurities.

Or maybe it is true, they were ungrateful at the miracle. I doubt it.

Often, I feel like one of the nine lepers and I believe I still under-estimate the kind and loving Jesus who wants us to approach Him.

Still, can any of us truly thank God for what he has done in allowing us to have this mortal experience? How do I thank him for Eden or Lynnette? How do I give Him what He has given me?

Shortly after I had my third open heart surgery I put a quote from Carolyn Pearson near the ceiling of my room so I could always read it. She penned the lyric "And if I serve Him, with every moment that I live, with all the love I have to give, still I would be in His debt forever."

It's my hope that our lives will be our display of gratitude for our kind and loving God.

A New Chapter

2010-08-24T17:14:00.009-06:00

When I started my blog Living for Eden I didn't realize in the beginning how healing it would be for me to share my experiences with the world. Those of you who have a blog may understand what I am saying. Like keeping a journal, writing all your emotions and what you learn is therapeutic. Sharing personal things is a form of daily affirmation. I thought I was keeping family and friends informed, I was helping myself heal spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.

After waiting 385 days on an organ donation list, I received a heart transplant. As I recovered my father, a professional journalist, encouraged me to compile my blog into a book. The Living for Eden entries and a dozen other inspiring stories became what Shadow Mountain Publishing has titled, Before My Heart Stops, which is my memoir of events leading to my change of heart.

The national release date is September 9, 2010 on the anniversary of my transplant. The publisher has been very kind and supportive in my desire to use this book as a tool to bring awareness to congenital heart disease and organ donation. I'm excited to advocate these issues and speak to audiences on a book tour currently being scheduled. If anything, I hope this book will help inspire people to acknowledge the hand of God in their lives because of the gifts of chronic illness and other similar challenges faced by millions.

Each waking day, I am reminded that sustaining my life and beating in my chest, is the heart of a young man, a child of God, whose death has given me a future and purpose. I am on borrowed time and determined to honor the sacrifice made. In parallel, for most Christians, we recognize the great sacrifice and death of Jesus. Because of that sacrifice we have been promised life beyond the grave.

Finally, I want to leave with you some of the things I am expected to do as a heart transplant recipient. This is well explained by the retired cardiologist Dale Renlund who listed me to receive a new heart.

"In December 1967 the first successful heart transplant was performed in Cape Town, South Africa. The dying man’s diseased heart was removed, and a healthy heart from a deceased donor was sewn in its place. Since then, over 75,000 heart transplants have been performed worldwide.

In each heart transplant recipient, the patient’s own body recognizes the new, lifesaving heart as “foreign” and begins to attack it. Left unchecked, the body’s natural response will reject the new heart, and the recipient will die. Medicines can suppress this natural response, but the medications must be taken daily and with exactness. Furthermore, the condition of the new heart must be monitored. Occasional heart biopsies are performed wherein small pieces of heart tissue are removed and then examined under a microscope. When signs of rejection are found, medications are adjusted. If the rejection process is detected early enough, death can be averted.

Surprisingly, some patients become casual with their transplanted hearts. They skip their medicines here and there and obtain the needed follow-up less frequently than they should. They think that because they feel good, all is well. Too often this shortsighted attitude puts the patients at risk and shortens their lives.

A heart transplant can prolong life for years for people who would otherwise die from heart failure. But it is not “the ultimate operation,” as Time magazine called it in 1967. The ultimate operation is not a physical but a spiritual “mighty change” of heart." (October 3, 2010 Salt Lake City, Utah)

watch the entire sermon

Stay posted for another update. . .

2010-08-23T21:57:00.002-06:00

I'm Spoiled Rotten

2010-08-16T08:48:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it's been almost a year since my heart transplant. I've never felt so alive, blessed, and humbled. I am spoiled rotten. I have a beautiful wife and a beautiful life. Where has the time gone?

Photo: Enjoying an outdoor Peter Breinholt concert

On September 9th, the anniversary of my transplant, I will do two things. First, I will thank God for all he has blessed me wit. Second, I will thank God for the life of my donor. His challenging circumstances lead to an early death and ironically preserved my own life and a few others. I think about this young man every day and with every heart beat I realize I'm on borrowed time. Somewhere beyond this world I hope he knows how deeply indebted I am to him.

As part of the anniversary celebration, I'm looking forward to getting out and seeing many of you on a book tour that my publisher is planning for September through October. I'm still a little amazed someone would want to publish my story, but I'm grateful to my dad for pushing me to do it. Whether I see you or not, I'm hoping "Before My Heart Stops" will help you or someone you know going through a tough time.

Before I sign out I want to share a lyric with you I love written by Carolyn Pearson. She wrote, "Life is for living, for laughing and giving, whether you're happy or not."

Ridin' The Roller Coasters!

2010-08-15T08:48:00.004-06:00

Once I received my heart transplant I didn't think I would be able to ride roller coasters. I've always believed the experience of ridin' a coaster in and of itself should be prescribed by therapist helping people through hard times. It certainly works for me. I was elated when doctors gave me the go ahead . . . Here is that moment with a few of the youth living in my neighborhood.

Our Inheritance from God

2010-06-15T08:51:00.000-06:00

Henry B. Eyring, one of the great leaders in my faith, discussed a very important truth that has inspired all those who have embraced his wise counsel.

He said, "Your inheritance from God is time. It is capital far more precious than any lands or stocks or houses you will ever get. Spend it foolishly, and you will bankrupt yourself and cheapen the inheritance of those that follow you. Invest it wisely, and you will bless generations to come." [Sermon delivered May 4, 1986, BYU]

For me, receiving a second chance at life because another person's heart beats inside of me makes me think more about the word time. It is a precious commodity. It is a gift.

None of us really know how much time we have left. I thank God everyday for renewing me and granting me more time with my wife and daughter. He performed a miracle.

I’m not surprised. He is a God of miracles.

If another person’s heart can bring me back from the dead why is it impossible for Jesus to raise himself from the dead? Thanks to my donor I live again. Thanks to my Savior and Redeemer I will live forever. I thank Him each day for his mercy and kindness toward our family and I look forward to thanking my donor when my time runs out.

Photo: My Ragnar Family

Until then I'll enjoy my extended family and friends who continue to inspire me.

The week after our hike up the steep Mount Olympus, 12 of my immediate family, a few spouses and cousins were part of a 188-mile relay race called RAGNAR that went through the small towns of Northern Utah. I worked with my Mom as a volunteer along with my cousin Trent. Our team was named after one of our brother's songs called, “Leave it all Behind.”

Each of the 1000 teams had 12 members. They were awake for almost 48 hours running 2 sets aprox. 3-15 miles each, even when the sun went down. They would pass wrist ban to the next team member who would then run their set.

Photo: My sister Caron passing the wrist ban / baton to my youngest sister Jane

Other people I’ve associated with continue to inspire me. Their way of life fuels my desire to spend my time wisely with a good balance of work, service, and fun.

Since summer began, I’ve had opportunity to speak and share my music with thousands of kids and parents attending youth conferences or other church related events. From Houston to Manti, Utah, Seattle/Tacoma to South Ogden, or wherever I go, I meet kind and friendly people who have a light in their eyes focused on learning all they can about our Father in Heaven.

Photo: Teams decorated their cars. This my cute sister Jane standing by a decorated relay-race car.

I’ve attended several charity events where people are gathered because they deeply care about one another. The fund-raiser for my fellow heart transplant friend Mason brought a community together. The support alleviated some of the financial burdens associated with medical expenses. But more priceless than donated funds was the spiritual feeling of love in the large room where people threw their arms around a family in need.

I’ve learned in my short span of time that no matter what comes our way, people genuinely seeking God and striving with all of their whole heart for goodness and charity, are the happy people in our society.

The greatest servant of all said to His disciples shortly before He was crucified for the sins of the world, “He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.” (Matthew 10:39)

Mission Accomplished!

2010-06-14T08:52:00.000-06:00

Photo by Jeffery D. Allred, Deseret News (2010)

Brotherly tribute

Paul Cardall climbs Mount Olympus just 9 months after transplant.

By Erin Alberty

The Salt Lake Tribune

Updated: 06/09/2010 11:22:48 PM MDT

To summit Mount Olympus less than a year after surgery would be a feat for any heart transplant patient.

But Paul Cardall says this is not his big day.

Nine months ago, looking at the behemoth rock face from a hospital window he could barely walk to, Cardall decided to make the epic hike for someone else. Brian Cardall had died a few months earlier, when police stunned him with a Taser during a bipolar episode.

On Wednesday, the anniversary of Brian's death, Paul steps onto the trail. His first major hike in 25 years is in memory of his little brother. Continue reading and see PHOTO GALLERY

With family and friends on top of Mount Olympus
Photo by Jeffery D. Allred, Deseret News (2010)

Paul Cardall celebrates lives of brother and donor from atop Mount Olympus

Published: Wednesday, June 9, 2010 7:47 p.m. MDT

MOUNT OLYMPUS — Exactly one year from the minute Brian Cardall's heart stopped beating, his brother Paul's new heart allowed him stand on top of Mount Olympus Wednesday and thank God for both their lives.

"We got to the peak at 1 p.m., and it was 1:10 p.m. a year ago when Brian was killed. We didn't even plan that, but we got there and realized it," said Paul Cardall, a local musician who took an emotional roller coaster ride along with his extended family last year. As Paul's monthslong wait for a heart transplant continued last June 9, his brother Brian was Tasered by a Hurricane police officer, who was called to the side of a rural highway.

Brian had shed his clothes in a manic episode and was running naked on the road. His wife had called 911. The Taser was deployed and Brian died.

His family, including brother Paul, was devastated by his loss. But their emotional ride took a sharp turn upward in September, when doctors at Primary Children's Medical Center replaced Paul's sick and tired heart with that of a 19-year-old donor.

He and his family viewed the event as a miracle, and Paul vowed his first day back home that he would climb Mount Olympus on the anniversary of his brother's death, as both a tribute to the lost life and the triumph of a new chapter in his own journey.

On the summit, Paul told the family and friends who accompanied him that he wanted to say a prayer "of gratitude for Brian and his life. … It was very simple, with thanks 'for our experience with Brian, knowing him and all his accomplishments and understanding how proud he would be of us.'

Hugging my wife on the highest peak of Mount Olympus next to a mailbox full of letters from others who reached the top. As we opened the lid someone years ago had put in red tape the name "Paul" and there was also a gold plate honoring another person who died named "Brian." Photo by Jeffery D. Allred, The Deseret News (2010)

Continue reading and see 20 PHOTOS From the Deseret News

A Lot of Heart in Houston

2010-06-07T08:52:00.000-06:00

My family and I were invited to the 2nd annual "It's My Heart" congenital heart defect conference this past weekend in Houston, Texas at the United Way Center. I was one of the speakers.

With almost 20 chapters spread throughout the United States, I'm grateful to know there are so many people organized to help families affected by congenital heart disease.

Folks were anxious to hear from Charles D. Fraser, Jr., M.D., an internationally recognized leader in pediatric and congenital heart surgery, who was recently appointed surgeon-in-chief at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston.

I should note that good surgeons are celebrities to those who have had their children worked on and Dr. Fraser is well loved. He leads a team of more than 100 surgeons representing multiple pediatric surgical subspecialties at one of the nation’s largest children’s hospitals.

Dr. Fraser's, who studied at John Hopkins University, discussed the history of pediatric heart surgery and then focused primarily on what's being done for patient's with single ventricle. He said every case is different and unique. "We've come really far in since our early fontan procedure came into play," said the surgeon. He showed us the number of procedures now available before a person needs a transplant. For example, Dr. Fraser wants more research and practice done towards replacing sections of the heart with gortex, cadaver tissue, and animal tissue before having to go to the length of doing a heart transplants. He was very optimistic and soft spoken about the future of people with congenital heart disease.

Later, we broke into groups and heard from a variety of speakers on subjects like managing stress, future of CHD, and others.

I enjoyed breaking into the teen summit (no parents allowed) with some of the teens and adults discussing their feelings about living with CHD. The gentlemen who led the group discussion has my similar defect and is a psychiatrist at the hospital.

Photo: A few of the adults from the Houston area living with congenital heart disease. It was really inspiring for me to be with this group.

Most talked about what they'd like to do in life, their hopes and dreams. We talked about how hard it is on their parents or loved ones. One by one we talked about each of our different diagnosis. To lighten things up one kid said that in addition to his CHD he had been diagnosed with "awesomeness" but it wasn't contagious.

Overall, organizations like It's My Heart, Intermountain Healing Hearts, Saving Tiny Hearts, ACHA, and the many other foundations throughout our nation are doing great work. I'm so please to be part of this effort to help lift each other.

Two Weeks to the Climb!

2010-05-26T08:53:00.000-06:00

Last year at this time I sat waiting in an overstuffed chair for a surgical miracle. During those last few days in May 2009 I wrote these words on my blog:

“It's been a tough week. My body is tired. And I'll admit that I've been depressed at times and full of anxiety. Why do I feel so empty? I have every reason to live and love.”

Photo by Jeffery Allred | Deseret News (2009)

Much has transpired since last year and now I am only two weeks away from making an historic climb up Mount Olympus (Utah) in honor of my deceased brother.

I believe I will be the oldest survivor of the Fontan heart surgery from Utah to make this difficult hike post transplant.

Photo: Mount Olympus, Utah

I was so close to death and have known too many who have died.

Because of this, I find myself spending a lot of time doing things associated with the beauty of this world while I am still in this physical body.

Whether it is fishing, hiking, camping, or riding a bike long distances, I can’t stop enjoying the outdoors. I feel close to my brother. Above all, I feel close to God.

I am grateful for the creator of our world and all of the beauty that surrounds me.

Our Father in Heaven has orchestrated a beautiful plan that transcends this world for each us. We can trust God and know this life-time is but a small moment in an eternal view only He understands.

What we do now, matters.

Photo: Fishing the Provo River, Utah

“Every day you may make progress. Every step may be fruitful.

Yet there will stretch out before you an ever-lengthening, ever-ascending, ever-improving path.

You know you will never get to the end of the journey.

But this, so far from discouraging, only adds to the joy and glory of the climb.”

-Winston Churchill

What Faith Can Do!

2010-05-13T08:54:00.000-06:00

As contemplate each day the events that led to my recovery I am grateful for the power of faith people have to access the power of God and keep me around a little longer. Below are the lyrics from a Kutless tune shared with me by my one of my cardiologists.

What Faith Can Do From the album It Is Well

Photo: Getting Labs every week while waiting for my heart transplant

Everybody falls sometimes
Gotta find the strength to rise
From the ashes and make a new beginning
Anyone can feel the ache
You think it's more than you can take
But you are stronger, stronger than you know
Don't you give up now
The sun will soon be shining
You gotta face the clouds
To find the silver lining

I've seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn't ever end
Even when the sky is falling
And I've seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That's what faith can do

Photo: Recovering from one of the many heart caths while waiting for my heart transplant

It doesn't matter what you've heard
Impossible is not a word
It's just a reason for someone not to try
Everybody's scared to death
When they decide to take that step
Out on the water
It'll be alright
Life is so much more
Than what your eyes are seeing
You will find your way
If you keep believing

Photo: Making faces days after my successful heart transplant

I've seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn't ever end
Even when the sky is falling
And I've seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That's what faith can do

Overcome the odds
You do have a chance
(That's what faith can do)
When the world says you can't
It'll tell you that you can!

Photo: Building a snowman with my daughter with a normal healthy heart beating in my chest

I've seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn't ever end
Even when the sky is falling
And I've seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That's what faith can do
That's what faith can do!
Even if you fall sometimes
You will have the strength to rise

Thanking God

2010-05-06T08:54:00.000-06:00

This evening I am thanking our loving God for blessing surgeons and other related medical personnel with the talents, knowledge, passion and wisdom required to sustain the life of a young man who endured a long day of reconstructive heart surgery beginning this morning.

Lawrence E. Corbridge said, "Life is hard, but life is simple. Get on the path and never, ever give up. You never give up. You just keep on going. You don’t quit, and you will make it."

Chief of the Medical Staff by Nathan Greene
http://www.nathangreene.com/product/45/32

Climbing Mountains

2010-05-01T08:55:00.000-06:00

I'm having so much fun doing outdoor activities I've never been capable of that I'm excited about one of my next goals, climbing a very special mountain.

As I recovered from my heart transplant attached to oxygen, IVs and several chest tubes draining fluid, I was encouraged by my medical team to get up out of my hospital bed and walk a short distance.

Photo: Standing up the first time after my heart transplant

I was in so much pain and discomfort it would have been easier for me to stay in my hospital bed but my mind and spirit were strong, alive, and anxious to take on another challenge.

Together with my wife Lynnette, father Duane, sister n’ law Anna, and a wonderful nurse, they helped me rise up out of my comfort zone and take the first couple of steps slowly out of my room.

Feeling alive we walked down a hallway followed by another hallway that led to a window overlooking the south end of the Salt Lake Valley.

In the distance, to my left, was Mount Olympus, one of the highest peaks along the Wasatch. This is a nostalgic mountain for me because it overshadowed my childhood home in the early morning hours as the sun rose from the east. The pioneers who settled Utah named the mountain after the highest peak in Greece.

My entire life I wanted to hike this beast of a hill but I didn’t have the heart do it (no pun intended). My younger brother Brian climbed it with ease. As adults he took our youngest sibling Craig up the north face using ropes and the usual climbing gear.

Photo: Looking at Mount Olympus from Primary Children's Medical Center several days after my heart transplant.

As I stood from a hospital gazing out the window at Mount Olympus I had flashbacks of all that had transpired the past year leading up to my miraculous surgery with Brian’s untimely death looming over me. I made a commitment there and then that once recovered I would prepare myself to climb Mount Olympus in honor of my brother.

This is no easy task for a heart transplant recipient or anyone who is not in shape to hike long distances. Most climbers reach the summit following a steep trail that stretches approximately 3.1 miles. It’s like walking upstairs for several miles from approximately 5000 ft in elevation to the thin air of 9000 ft.

When I’ve asked people about the hike some have said, “Oh, it’s easy. Me and my college buddies where up to the top and back down in less than 3 hours” While others comment, “It’s tough, rough, and miserable. I remember it being a 9 hour hike up and down.” There certainly are a lot of ways to look at life.

Photo: Mount Olympus, Wasatch Mountains, Utah

I’ve been preparing by climbing other canyons and staying active playing basketball, walking, and fly-fishing.

On June 9, 2010 I will climb Mount Olympus on the 1 year anniversary of my brother's untimely death. Brian left a wonderful legacy not only in the scientific community with his various publications, but he left behind two beautiful children and a kind wife who is strong through adversity. I want to honor his life and love for God’s creations. He would have done the same for me.

I may not reach the peak, but in my efforts I’ll know in my heart and mind that I’m doing something I have never done before and I’ll know my brother will be smiling from the other side saying, “Well done.”

Miracle Mason

2010-04-30T08:57:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I learned great news. My young friend Mason, born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and severe pulmonary vein stenosis, is moving out of the pediatric intensive care unit at the Lucille Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford into a regular hospital room almost tube free.

Truly, Mason's story has been a powerful example of faith on the part of all those involved, especially his mother Summer. From the first day she started a blog for Mason she referred to her son as Miracle Mason.

Everyone who has ever worked on his case fought to keep him around although most were unsure of his future.

The frustration of thinking there was no hope for this young man because of his extremely complicated heart and lung anatomy strengthened his parents resolve to explore all medical options with the hope a pediatric thoraic surgeon could perform a miracle on Mason.

The odds were stacked up against this young man, but his mother was determined to fight on, never looking back, and challenge every option, trying every last resort. To that end, we've witnessed a miracle because of a mother's love. The world needs more mothers like Masons.

"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." -Winston Churchill

Hope for Patrick!

2010-04-21T08:56:00.000-06:00

Congenital disorders have a wide variety of birth defects. One such serious problem is "short gut syndrome" meaning, the complete dysfunction of a large segment of bowel or simply they're missing most of their intestines.

I met Patrick Hoopes, an adorable little boy with big brown eyes and an infectious smile, while I was staying as a patient in the Primary Children's Medical Center waiting for my heart transplant.

When his parents Emily and Brian Hoopes adopted Patrick they knew he had some medical challenges, but did not know to what extent. They've loved this boy from the first time they saw him and knew he would be their son.

Doctors informed the Hoopes that Patrick needs an intestinal transplant or he will not live more than a few years. His family are traveling back and forth to Seattle Children's Hospital from Salt Lake City where Patrick has been listed for an intestinal transplant.

I promised the family that if I made it out the hospital alive I would do what I can to help. This is why I'm hosting a benefit concert for Patrick. It's a rare and unusual situation and I'm thrilled to be a small part of his amazing life.

For more information and to purchase concert tickets visit:
http://www.showclix.com/event/9223/

Sobering Events

2010-04-18T08:56:00.000-06:00

Friday evening was humbling. Each year IDS, our local organization that manages the organ donation process holds an event honoring families of loved ones who’ve donated their organs, tissue, and bones. With nearly 1000 people crowding the West Valley Cultural Celebration Center some folks stood to watch the event unfold.

I performed, “Gracie’s Theme” and was followed by Courtnee Vanderlinden who told us about the beautiful life and character of her 4-year old niece Kyla Lambson who died after a tragic accident in which the little girl was run over by a vehicle and killed in the driveway of her home.

According to the Deseret News, “The girl, Kyla Lambson, had just arrived home with a neighbor who had taken her to church. The 37-year-old woman parked her SUV in the home's steep driveway and both got out of the vehicle. They were walking to the home's front door when the girl's brother yelled at them from across the street to come look at something he found. The neighbor and Kyla started walking down the driveway, behind the SUV, when the woman noticed her vehicle was rolling down the hill toward them. She tried to grab Kyla and pull her out of the way, but it was too late. The SUV ran over the little girl.

Sweet little Kyla slowly slipped out of her tiny body leaving her mother and family behind. It was then that I believe and I imagine the arms of a loving God, another who suffered a tragic death, on a cross, tenderly wrapped His arms around Kyla as He comforted her and welcomed her back home.

Image: "Security" by David Bowman

Later we watched a video featuring more than 100 people, who like Kyla, passed away leaving their organs to be donated to someone fighting to survive. One by one each soul who had passed has a story, a life, a family. It was hard to watch.

There is not a day that goes by that I don’t think about the fragile nature of life. I’m reminded to make every moment count. No one can escape death. As the saying goes, “you won’t get out of here alive.” Are we ready? Are we prepared? What should we change in our lives? Have we said all the things we would want someone to hear? Following through on these questions will not only improve our lives and happiness, but it will strengthen the lives of those around us. Each time we say, “I love you” to another human being and truly mean it, there becomes a rippling effect that goes far beyond his or her own life. That love will carry beyond. The only thing that conquers pain and the suffering of the world is love.

Inside my chest beats the heart of a young man. I think about him every day. I thank the God in Heaven for his life. I look forward to thanking him when my life is over. Just as Jesus has laid down his life for you and me that we might some day live again, so has my organ donor made it possible for me to live again for another season.

I’m not sure how long that will be? This past week I got word that my friend Emily, who received a heart transplant two months before I was listed for my own, who inspired me with her optimism at the time, passed away from complications of heart failure. She was a huge contribution of service and kindness to our community and loved by many. She will be greatly missed. She’s left her husband Peter and two children.

All of this is sobering. I’m reminded I have an unknown future. I pray I may live to love, as Emily and Kyla, and others who’ve come and gone over time. I feel I have plenty to do.

I trust God. He is my friend. His eternal plan for all of us brings me the peace, strength, and hope I need to endure. There is no doubt in my mind of this truth. If you don’t know this, I encourage you to get on your knees and open up your heart to Him. Thank Him for every good thing in your life. You will feel His voice. The God of Heaven is our Father and adores you. One day we’ll look back and recognize all that He has done for His children in advancing us to greater levels of light, love and knowledge.

Register to be a Donor

Conference for Seniors

2010-04-17T08:58:00.000-06:00

Earlier this month Senator Orrin Hatch invited me to speak at his conference for seniors. It was truly an honor to have this powerful political leader introduce me to his large audience.

I’m sure I stumbled over my message, but my intent was to let the folks know they are loved and in a difficult situation they should ask for help. Let people love you and serve you because sometimes it’s difficult to be served.

Photo: My mother Margaret, Me, Senator Hatch, My Grandmother Layton

Fishing with Family and Friends

2010-04-06T08:59:00.000-06:00

With a new heart and renewed energy I’m picking up nostalgic activities like fly-fishing, which has been in my family for generations. Mom used to drive my brothers and me up the canyon after elementary school or early Saturday mornings so we could drop a line in the water while she read in the car. I don't remember if we caught fish, but I remember being together.

There’s something magical about being away from civilization in the early morning hours shortly before the sun pops over the mountain. The air is fresh and pristine. It’s quiet except for the light sounds of chirping birds, rippling water, rustling wind, and occasional cars driving by on the distant road. Eventually the sun shows it’s face as the sunbeams dance on the river's crust.

All of this beauty connects me to memories of past fishing trips with family and friends, some of which have crossed over to the other side to be with the one who created all of this beauty for us to enjoy.

I’m a descendant of pioneers, people who journeyed west to settle in uncharted territory and worship God according to their newfound religion. My ancestors drove their wagons led by a team of oxen or they themselves pulled a handcart with all their belongings. The path was unpaved and rough. Along the way they found their food as they fished the streams and rivers.

One such pioneer was Wilford Woodruff who wrote about his experience in 1847. He said, "The man at the fort said there were but very few trout in the streams, and a good many of the brethren were already at the creeks with their rods & lines trying their skill baiting with fresh meat & grass hoppers, but no one seemed to catch any.

"I went & flung my fly onto the [brook] and it being the first time that I ever tried the artificial fly in America, or ever saw it tried, I watched it as it floated upon the water with as much intense interest as Benjamin Franklin did his kite when he tried to draw lightning from the skies. And as Franklin receive great joy when he saw electricity or lightning descend on his kite string, in like manner was I highly gratified when I saw the nimble trout dart my fly hook himself & run away with the line but I soon worried him out & drew him to shore."

Photo: My cousin Tyler holding a Steelhead trout on our trip to Salmon, Idaho. We've been fishing together since we were kids.

My Organ Donor

2010-04-06T08:58:00.000-06:00

As the United Network of Organ Sharing and its various chapters and volunteers spread awareness this month throughout America, I felt impressed to express my own appreciation for my organ donor. I think about this person every day, if not every hour.

Ever since I learned I needed a heart from another human being I felt placed in an odd predicament. Couldn't God tell me who it is before it happened so I might some how intervene and possibly prevent their death? Yet, how could I deny my wife a husband and my little girl a father. Coming to terms with this unique situation was a long and difficult journey I can't explain in words.

I prayed for my donor in the morning and the evenings as I waited for word of a heart from my doctors.

Since my transplant last September, I have grieved my donor's passing like that of my own brother who died while I waited. Some have asked why I didn't receive my brother's heart. He was not my blood type and was unable to donate living organs. We did donate some tissue and bone to help someone walk.

I'm not at liberty to discuss information about who my donor is because of privacy laws and my personal respect to the family who has suffered a great loss.

I believe strongly my donor is an angel of God who chose a path that has blessed the lives of not only my family, my community, but also future generations.

I'm reminded of a verse of scripture in the Bible that reads: "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:14) I am forever in his debt and will do all I can to serve others as he has served me.

This month, you can help me spread awareness of organ donation by writing about it on your facebook status, blog, in an e-mail or where-ever you can. Feel free to share my video, the image above, and a link to www.donatelife.net

Funeral of a Child

2010-03-19T09:00:00.000-06:00

This morning I played the piano at another funeral for a child. These things never get easy.

The infant’s young mother stood at the podium in front of a large group of family and friends to share her feelings. With her loyal husband at her side with his arm around her she expressed gratitude to God for this experience. She publicly thanked her Father in Heaven for her infant son.

Born prematurely, he lived only three weeks, but his beautiful spirit had been with her for almost a year. With confidence she stated her belief in an afterlife and that her family would be reunited.

If we believe this life is all there is and that death is the end of our existence that would be a sad and pathetic conclusion.

This weak theory makes people even more miserable and undermines the very intelligence of who we are and how far we’ve come in understanding things as they really are.

Some bright minds conclude the advancements in science are evidence there is no God. Is such naive intelligence and so called theorists to brilliant that they overlook a possible conclusion that a supreme being could possibly be the source of applying all these truths? Who are we to question the existence of a God when we have so many problems of our own. Nations and cultures can't even figure out how to get along with one another. Maybe our selfish nature denies there is something greater than ourselves.

Nothing in science can remotely prove there’s no God. Rather every proven theory or fact of truth in science advances the notion God is behind all of this beauty. "All things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator." When the sunsets it's not just beautiful, it's a reminder He's close by. When there's fresh snow on a Christmas morning, it's not just a hallmark card, but a reminder he's close by.

I love the statement by Leo Tolstoy who said, “The more we live by our intellect, the less we understand the meaning of life.” Those who choose the path of humility during times of crisis will find a loving and kind God if they are looking. What they discover as they kneel in humble prayer with an open mind cannot be described in words. If consistently seeking help from the Almighty they will hear His voice and feel the comfort in their hearts.

God’s love is like warming our hands on a fire after a cold day. I’ve felt that fire many times. I can’t deny it.

I pray that we might pay more attention to the life events experienced by other people. For some it’s difficult to do. But we can find the strength within ourselves to ease the burden of those who are burdened. We can mourn with those that mourn. God will guide us and inspires us how to help or what to say when the time is right. Sometimes the most powerful form of expression is to wrap our arms around those in pain and say nothing.

Life goes by quickly. Every moment counts. With every passing moment how much more fulfilling our lives will be if we count our blessings and seek to recognize the daily influence of a loving God in our lives. He understands all things and why he brings children home. We have to trust Him or we have nothing to trust in.

After losing his young daughter, singer Steven Curtis Chapman wrote these power lyrics worth reading:

We planted the seed while the tears of our grief soaked the ground
The sky lost its sun, and the world lost its green to lifeless brown
Now the chilling wind has turned the earth hard as stone
And silently seed rise beneath ice and snow
And my heart's heavy now

But I'm not letting go of this hope I have that tells me
Spring is coming, Spring is coming
And all we've been hoping and longing for soon will appear
Spring is coming, Spring is coming
It won't be long now, it's just about here

Hear the birds start to sing
Feel the life in the breeze
Watch the ice melt away
The kids are coming out to play
Feel the sun on your skin
Growing strong and warm again
Watch the ground: there's something moving
Something is breaking through
New life is breaking through
Spring is coming, Spring is coming
And all we've been hoping and longing for soon will appear
Spring is coming, Spring is coming
And it won't be long now, it's just about here
Spring is coming, Spring is coming
Out of these ashes, beauty will rise
And all we've been hoping and longing for soon will appear
Sorrow will be turned to joy
Spring is coming, Spring is coming
All we hoped for soon will appear
It won't be long now, it's just about here

LISTEN TO THE SONG

I'm Going to Disneyland!!

2010-03-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Super Bowl tradition has someone in the media asking the MVP, “Hey, you just won the super bowl. What are you going to do next?” With excited the athlete replies, “I’m going to Disneyland.” For me, it can be phrased, “Hey Paul, you just got a heart transplant. What are you doing next?” I'd make the same reply.

Six months ago yesterday I survived congenital heart disease and received a donor heart from a wonderful human being who I think about every hour of every day.

Photo: Mickey, Lynnette, Eden, Me, Minnie

One of our goals if I lived through the surgery was to take Eden to Disneyworld in Florida and enjoy a week of rides, treats, no technology, and endless fun.

Mission accomplished.

With all the fun we had the usual moments of an over-stimulated child who was trying to take in all of the thrills, chills, people, and waiting in line, but in the end she simply can’t stop talking about what we experienced.

After climbing nearly 10,000 feet in the air our 4 year old looked out the window to see hundreds of clouds below the airplane and she curiously asked, “Are we upside down?”

Photo: Eden meeting a fellow Princess

Another honest remark from Eden came after she insisted we go on Hollywood Studios’ Tower of Terror or Twilight Zone ride (watch a video). You enter a haunted building and sit on benches, which takes you into a dark elevator shaft where you climb a hundred feet and when you are not expecting it, the shaft drops and it feels like you are free falling. Then in the dark, pitch black with a loud sound system of music and haunted noise, you go up and down, up and down all over again. Both Lynnette and I had no idea what this was. The sign at the entrance said a person 40 inches high could ride the tower. The park should probably clarify if the 40 inches refers to little people or children also? Needless to say, her insistence in going on an unknown ride put her through quiet an ordeal. Her sweet little innocence has experienced something wild and new. For me, I loved the ride, but Eden said with some frustration, “Let’s not do that again!” Of coarse, upon getting home and seeing cousins and friends that’s all she talks about. “You would be way scared,” she says… We won’t forget the tower of terror.

We made up for the tower by going on Splash Mountain and the Big Thunder Railroad various times at the Magic Kingdom resorts along with visiting Typhoon Lagoon, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and more. Eden loved these rides and was anxious to return in a long line to do them again. Interesting how we are patient for some things we know and understand and not as patient at times for the unknown events in our lives.

Photo: Taking Eden into the Typhoon Lagoon

Aside from the rides and crowds, on a personal level I was enthralled with the amount of energy I had to walk all over the various parks for the past week carrying a backpack and at times Eden on my shoulders. I enjoyed working out at the GYM and stretching my limits to prepare my body for my next adventure climbing Mount Olympus in honor of my brother Brian. The endurance I experienced on this trip was helpful and motivating in my realization I can do this. I can climb Mount Olympus in 90 days!

See more of our Disney Adventures on my Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/paulcardall

Remember Mason

2010-02-24T09:01:00.000-07:00

Today there is a mother with her dying son living at a Ronald McDonald home in Palo Alto, California as they wait for word that a donor will become available.

The child is Mason. He is one of the millions of children throughout the world waiting for answers to an unknown future.

For me it's one thing to be a father hoping to be around for my kid, but it's an entirely different feeling knowing a child is in trouble and needs help.

I spent many sleepless nights in a children's hospital listening to little kids cry out for help. I had no control over the situation. It wasn't my place and I had to trust in the team caring for that child, but like any good Father I wanted to throw off the tubes that held me down and go solve the problem.

These things continually remind me how precious our time is with one another. We must have focus and fulfill our purpose for living, uplifting and inspiring whom we can, giving and receiving, while praying for those in need and actively doing something to make individual lives better, especially when we have no control over it and feel helpless.

Although financial support is wonderful, the most powerful thing we can do is to pray for their little family. Pray for Mason and his mother and father. God knows exactly who they are.

http://www.miraclemason.blogspot.com/

A Priceless Evening!

2010-02-17T09:01:00.000-07:00

Photos courtesy of Dustin Bess Photography

In this world there are those who act and those who are acted upon. To act is to do something productive with your life. These kinds of people have goals and vision. They lead, guide, and inspire others to act for themselves. People acted upon usually follow the ways of the world and probably feel empty inside. During last evening’s priceless concert event those who act surrounded me.

Photo: An empty Abravanel Hall during set up hours

This was my first public concert since my heart transplant five months ago, and I believe for almost two years.

It was an overwhelming and emotional experience for me. To be backstage and walk out onto a beautifully lit stage with my full ensemble while 2700 people stood to applaud was overwhelming.

The sold out crowd, which consisted of those in my community and folks who flew in from all over the nation, were not applauding me... They were applauding God and what he has done through a team of gifted medical professionals by preserving my life.

Photo: My wife Lynnette helping out daughter Eden get ready for the show

What affected me so deeply was knowing how many selfless people came together to successfully put on an event of this magnitude in less than 5 months.

From my close friend and show producer Jeremy Baron to my sister Carol Burgoyne who was our auction chairperson, these people helped me achieve a goal of bringing awareness to congenital heart disease and begin raising money to provide for my foundation, which is fueling an annual scholarship for those affected by the chronic illness.

A few days after my transplant with a dozen tubes running in and out of my body Jeremy visited me in the pediatric intensive care and suggested we do a celebrate life concert. He had a vision and I said, “Run with it.” He booked the finest venue in our Salt Lake valley and began contacting a talented stage crew from Cole Adams, who designed our lighting, Will Davies who ran the video, Joe Anderson who provided our sound, to Robin Saville of brideaccess.com who filmed the show. We also recorded the concert with the help of Rob Duffin and Giles Reaves from Annex Studios.

While Jeremy was prepping the production, my sister Carol Burgoyne headed the auction and gathered together a wonderful committee. Each member worked very hard to gather items for the auction and as word spread various businesses donated items to help us raise the money for our foundation.

My “Living for Eden” album producer Ryan Tilby began gathering a band together while Steve Nelson arranged strings for the show. All eleven musicians were a joy to work with and we joked that fitting them into my home to rehearse, with all of the gear involved, was truly like fitting a bunch of clowns into a car.

Photo: The Lobby

So much was orchestrated behind the scenes. When the day finally arrived I was nervous and overwhelmed by all that was involved.

The morning of the show I was dumbfounded to find Mike Willmore and his two boys Andrew & Joey, who spent the past Summer mowing my lawn, working once more together to help load in and set up all of the gear. In addition, my brother David and Craig were up early helping. They’ve always worked very hard and are extremely successful in their own lives.

Needless to say, the performance was exciting. I had a lot of fun. I hope everyone had a wonderful time and preserved a memory in their heart.

After I played my last tune, "Gracie’s Theme” my emotions ran sky high when my daughter Eden ran out to me followed by my beautiful wife. It was a priceless moment words can’t describe.

During the show another miracle occurred. It was a quiet miracle and a gift from our loving God. While performing my tune Sweet Escape I finally experienced some closure with the death of my brother Brian. Behind me on the screen was real footage of Brian’s visit to Peru with Anna on their honeymoon. The video ends with his infectious smile while he shuts off his camcorder. Later, after the show had ended and people flooded the backstage, I saw his beautiful widow Anna smiling and in that moment my overwhelming grief left me.

As the crowd emptied the hall, I was fortunate to interact with several wonderful people from all over the country backstage.

Photo: A Sold Out crowd

A touching moment for me came when I met several families who've been deeply affected this past year by congenital heart disease. From the families who've lost children to an individual who has survived CHD and has a child with a tumor. I was speechless for most of the interaction because I don't know how to help or what to say to alleviate their challenges. Needless, to say I was deeply affected by meeting such incredible souls. And because of the contributions of so many we will be able to send a modest financial donation to a several families.

(And a reminder the scholarship fund for those affected by CHD has an extended deadline to May 3rd - We'll announce the recipient on this blog).

I can’t express my gratitude for a priceless evening. I remember many years ago playing in the Roof Restaurant at the top of the Joseph Smith Building in downtown Salt Lake City. From my piano I could see Abravanel Hall and quietly dream that someday I would perform there. Last night, was someday!

To see the beautiful photography work of Dustin Bess, including more images from the concert visit his website: http://www.dustinbess.com

Celebrate Life This Monday!

2010-02-09T09:03:00.000-07:00

Whether you are attending the concert or not, please join with me this coming Monday in Celebrating Life and all that is good in this world!

I am looking forward to performing live with my band and string ensemble for the first time since my heart transplant. Abravanel Hall is almost sold out, but we have a few tickets left. I'm thankful to the 2500 people who are coming, especially the many folks flying in from other parts of the country as far as Hawaii.

I'm humbled to have received so much support from the community, local media, and businesses who are donating their services and products to support raising awareness of congenital heart disease and the wonderful families affected by the chronic illness.

Beginning at 6:30pm we have an amazing list of items on display for our silent auction. Every penny received will fund a yearly full ride scholarship at Salt Lake Community College for those deeply affected by Congenital Heart Disease as well as provide modest financial support to several families who've lost a child. These "angel" families will remain anonymous given the number of people who've lost loved ones and to respect the privacy of others.

For more information on the scholarship visit: http://scholarship.paulcardall.com

Evening Concert Schedule
6:30 - 8:00............Silent Auction
8:00 - 8:20............Close Bidding & Purchase Items (Pick Items up after the show)
7:30........................SHOW BEGINS which includes guests openers

The Silent Auction (You don't need a concert ticket to attend the auction)
Some of the auction items include; A sports basket, PGA tickets, Suite for 16 at a Grizzlies Hockey Game, A SLCC Foundation Scholarship (Tuition Waver for anyone), Day at Rocky Mountain Race Way Driving the Track, Fitness Memberships, Scrap-booking Supplies, Jazz Tickets, BYU/UTAH tickets, Private In-House Concert with Paul Cardall, CD Collections, New Baby Supplies, Mormon Tabernacle Choir Collection, Deseret Book Collection, Tool Set, Paintings, Art, Blankets, Jewelry, and much much more... Everyone will be able to afford taking one or several of these baskets home...

For more information and tickets visit: http://www.paulcardall.com

Good Things Utah!

2010-02-02T09:03:00.000-07:00

This morning on Utah's ABC affiliate, KTVX, I discussed congenital heart disease with the hosts of Good Things Utah. My adult CHD doctor, Angela Yetman joined me.

This is for those of you who were unable to watch the program. (Don't forget to turn off my playlist to your left)

If the video doesn't work for you visit this link:
http://www.abc4.com/content/about_4/gtu/featured_on/story/Congenital-Heart-Disease-The-Celebrate-Life/i46-NB5xM0STROav-E9G_w.cspx

Lynnette's Memories of 2009

2010-01-27T09:04:00.000-07:00

My wife keeps a wonderful blog for our friends and family. Mostly it's to have a small journal of events detailing Eden's childhood and experiences. Lynnette recently summarized her journey or perspective of this past year and has given me permission to share what she wrote on her last post. Please know she is the rock of my world. She made this past year easier for me as she carried most of the load. She had the hard part and I love her beyond all expression and description.

A Review of 2009
by Lynnette Cardall

I have recognized that I'm an extremely private person. But, with that said, I feel it is impossible to review the last year's events without giving you an honest glimpse into my personal world.

And wow...what a year it was! So if you are not one for life altering drama then maybe you should stop right here!

Where do I begin? It seems that most people will never have the opportunity to experience what we went through as a family. I say opportunity because it truly was a rare gift to go through all that we did. Both the good and the bad!!!

Life's truest lessons and a richer perspective are only gained from experience. I realize that I am not the only one in the world suffering from unfortunate circumstances. In fact, I know that I am profoundly blessed to have all that I have.

But this past year I found myself often looking at individuals that seemed to have an easier lot than I and comparing my life to theirs. Come on....it is only human to do so. I craved the normalcy that they seemed to have. I wanted their normal stresses like such things as spilled milk, an overdue bill, or a broken washing machine.

The discouraging thing was I seemed to have all those stresses but in addition I had life consuming worry that my life may change dramatically from a great loss.

I felt like loss and I were all too familiar and I was not ready for another visit with grief. Growing up motherless and losing several babies due to miscarriages and complicated pregnancies made me feel ready for a break. But all too soon I found myself back on the bandwagon of worry. Statistics for Paul were not encouraging and I was doing my best to remain positive.

Still my mind would ruminate with questions such as how would I explain it all to Eden, let alone, how would I personally make it through another day without Paul? Sure, I could remarry and find companionship again. That is if I could get past the grief from losing Paul. And there indeed were many talks with Paul regarding this subject. I became upset when I realized no one would truly love or worry about Eden like Paul would (my brief encounter with a step mom taught me that unfortunate fact, and possibly exaggerated it too).

I was exhausted from working my nursing shifts, keep up with daily tasks at home, caring for Eden and a sick husband, but most of all worrying and planning for the worst. It pained me to watch Paul feeling ill and helpless. I felt useless because I couldn't fix his ailing body.

At times I wondered how I had allowed myself to get into this situation. If I had learned anything as a child from watching my dad deal with the premature loss of my mom from cancer it was that I swore I would never want to be in his shoes..... never, never, ever!

When I met Paul and learned of the serious nature of his heart problem I seemed to have dismissed the hell my dad had gone through grieving my mother.

Photo: Back in the dating days of the 90s

At the time, I felt like I could conquer anything because our bond was unlike any bond I had experienced with anyone else. I think in my heart of hearts, I knew this experience would be extremely hard, but... I was willing to take the risk for Paul. He was one of a kind. Not just handsome and funny and ambitious (qualities all women look for), but he was strong, and I mean strong in character. His faith was unremarkable and unshakable, his motives clear and genuine, he possessed great depth, and his wisdom was well beyond his years. He was exactly what I wanted and if that meant it was not for a lifetime, I was still willing to take the risk. I could have let Paul go and settled on marrying some other man, but that someone else probably would have most likely taken me down a path filled with normal life, little adventure, and normal stresses!

The lows this year have been awful, but the highs have been exquisite. The outcome of Paul's transplant has exceeded all our expectations and to be next to him as he experiences a second chance at life with a newness of adventure has been exhilarating. The love and support we have felt from so many was overwhelming and so sweet. We have crossed paths with forever friends who have shaped our lives for the better.

The benefit concert put on by Paul's colleagues in our local music industry was an experience so amazing that I regard it as special as the day we were married. Countless other experiences, religious as well as casual, have been indescribable. Paul was an absolute rock through everything and it just confirmed to me why he was the one for me.

The ironic and unexpected loss of Paul's brother put a whole new twist on our situation. I kept thinking we would wake up from the bad dream. It did not seem real. Brian was a close friend of mine growing up and Paul and him had a very special bond. The whole happenstance is still hard to digest.

Not only did the event add grief to the pot of feelings, but a sense of guilt too. Paul feels guilt for surviving and I feel guilty for still having Paul at my side. I recognize that these feelings are nothing to feel bad about, but it is still hard to dismiss them. We all miss Brian terribly but there is comfort there that transcends all understanding and Paul's family has developed a great closeness over this past year. It is a unique gift that comes with the loss of a family member and if you have experienced it, you know what I mean.

My faith was sufficiently tried....

When I was growing up I grew closer to God through my trials but at times this last year I seemed to shy away because I felt so overwhelmed. It wasn't that I lost my faith in God but that I lost faith in myself. I felt God's love for me everyday and I never once doubted he was there pulling me through. I felt His love through the love of so many. There were many tender mercies along the way. I knew His plan was great and perfect, but some days I was unsure of my own strength and pleaded daily that he would enable me to endure his will, whatever it may be.

Now looking back I feel like He spoiled me with a grand miracle and I cannot deny it was a miracle all in His doing. Those first few days after Paul's transplant were a high I cannot describe. When you plan for the absolute worst and you get the best...there are no words to describe the overwhelming joy.

And God did enable me....with His love and the tender love of the Savior, I made it through this year without shrinking back and giving up!!!

And I gained so much along the way.

Image: Jesus teaching the woman at the well

So 2009....definitely was one of our most memorable.

And however many more years God grants me to love Paul here on this earth, I will cherish. I will do my best to live in the moment and make the most of our time together. I hope to live up to God's great miraculous gift to us. To give and be as He would desire me to be. I am even more indebted to Him.

Optimisim: It's Contagious

2010-01-21T09:05:00.000-07:00

Optimism is contagious.

A little over four months ago I was dying. Statistics, doctors, and a few friends were skeptical. Removing my heart, the size of a football, was not going to be easy. Friends saw death in the circles around my eyes and the pale color of my face. I felt it although I didn’t believe it.

Ironically, after my brother Brian passed away tragically, I was convinced by the comforting influence of God’s love I wasn’t going anywhere. God’s love empowered me with confidence and optimism.

Photo: The day after my heart transplant 09-10-2009

Shortly after I was listed for a transplant, a few of my cardiologists said something to the effect, “Success, is 50% your attitude. The rest is science.”

The principle of optimism should never be under estimated. The men who we refer to as our founding fathers shared this principle, which gave them, power to free the Colonies from England. By this power, Gandhi believed India could win a war of independence without taking up arms. Through optimism people change, serve, love, and lead the way for others.

You might not be a Senator or fly to the moon. You probably won’t be on television. You might not write a famous novel, experience front row seats to a sporting event, visit Italy and see Davinci or Michelangelo’s work, or win the showcase showdown on the Price is Right. However, gravitating to this principle and those people in your life who are optomistic will change you and you'll experience happiness where you never knew it existed.

Photo: Taken January 2010

By this power, each one of us can do mighty things. The effects of our optimism and service, with the talents and time we’ve been given have a rippling effect on those around us and effects generations.

With this optimism I plan to live as long as possible with the heart I’ve been given. I will do all I can to help where I can. But, above all, I will enjoy life and do things most of you have experienced your whole life with a normal heart.

Here are few things I've already been enjoying... Am I allowed to brag in this new condition? Absolutely.

Ice Fishing

Temple Square

The Virgin River, St. George, Utah

Golfing in St. George

Fishing Strawberry Reservoir

Climbing the base of Mt. Olympus

Climbing further up Mt. Olympus

Celebrating with my wife Lynnette

Skiing at Snowbird

Playing basketball

Lookback at 2009

2010-01-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

A month or two after I was listed for a heart transplant on August 20, 2008 my parents, brothers and sisters along with their spouses, a few of which were in town from Dallas and Las Vegas, gathered in my grandparent’s home to discuss the transplant list and the serious nature of my heart failure. We had a family prayer and then my Dad said something to the effect, “We are going to have a rather tough year ahead of us, but I feel Paul is going to make it.”

After we discussed several other issues, my father and brothers gathered around me and blessed me according to the traditions of my Mormon faith. Led by my father and the faith of my sisters in the room, my brothers gave me what we call a priesthood blessing. As part of the experience I was told I would feel God’s love through the ordeal and be blessed with strength to endure the challenges ahead. In addition, my father was impressed to say I would get well.

As 2009 draws to a close, looking back who would have thought that two of the men in that room would have passed away leaving me with a miraculous recovery and a second chance at life?

Within seven months, my younger brother Brian was tragically killed in a taser incident the details of which are confusing, ridiculous, and painful. This was a sad and unfortunate event that obviously could have been prevented. I continue to wrestle with the nature of his death.

Here I was waiting for a new heart, which requires someone to die, my whole family praying for my survival, and another member of our family dies.

Could life be anymore ironic? Where could I find understanding and peace? How can any of us find answers to life’s most challenging moments with such tragedy?

Devastated and heartbroken our family understood the sacrifice, heartache and pain my donor’s family would feel losing their son, brother, father, and friend.

Later, my grandfather Layton, who joined us in that room with Brian more than a year ago, quietly slipped to the other side on a Sunday evening in November. This was a much more welcomed occasion because he had enjoyed a full life and raised a large posterity of more than 100 people loyal to one another.

For me, with the passing of these great men, including my donor, I found strength in prayer, attending Church to be with others who also love God, reading inspiring books, and overall, listening intently to music. The right type of music always opens a conduit to heaven for me.

I was particularly inspired by fellow musician Steven Curtis Chapman, who released an album inspired by his struggle to deal with the death of his own daughter. His son backed the car out of the driveway accidentally injuring the little girl who later was pronounced dead at the hospital.

As Chapman struggled to find hope and understanding from a kind and merciful God he'd proclaim to believe in his entire life, he humbly wrote the words:

It was the day the world went wrong
I screamed til my voice was gone
And watched through the tears as everything
came crashing down
Slowly panic turns to pain
As we awake to what remains
and sift through the ashes that are left
behind

But buried deep beneath
All our broken dreams
we have this hope:

Out of these ashes... beauty will rise
and we will dance among the ruins
We will see Him with our own eyes
Out of these ashes... beauty will rise
For we know, joy is coming in the morning...
in the morning, beauty will rise

Photo: Taking my daughter Eden snowmobiling. Just one of the many amazing things I can do with my hear transplant

Truly, this has been a year of life and death, joy and sadness, miracles and tragedy. I have been grieving not only my brother and grandfather, but I am grieving my donor. Nonetheless, I do believe out of these ashes beauty will rise!

As I’ve taken this journey I’ve come to know other people suffering from congenital heart defects and terminal diseases. I’ve attended too many funerals. Each one has been extremely special, important, as has reaffirmed to me the reality of God and life after death. To say this life is all there is, for me, is madness. No matter what science proves science belongs to God. It is His tool to save mankind and redeem them from a fallen state to a state of eternal happiness.

I am grateful for life. We have no idea when it will be over. We don’t know our time to leave this beautiful world unless we have a terminal diagnosis. As one who was faced with death in 2009, and somehow by the grace of God has been given a new lease on life, I can’t tell you how thankful I am for those of you who prayed selflessly for our family this past year. Truly, 2009 has been one to remember. Our souls have been stretched and our relationship to the Creator has been strengthened.

Photo: My daughter Eden with my brother Brian's daughter Ava

Here’s to 2010, may there be less trials and tribulations and more laughter, silly behavior, and fun memories.

And on a serious note, when your depressed or your heart is aching remember these words from Steven Curtis Chapman which helped me through 2009.

When you think you've hit the bottom
and the bottom gives way
and you fall into a darkness
no words can explain
and you don't know how you make it out alive
Jesus will meet you there.

When the doctor says, "I'm sorry,
we don't know what else to do."
and you're looking at your family
wondering how they'll make it through...
Whatever road this life takes you down,
Jesus will meet you there.

He knows the way to wherever you are
He knows the way to the depths of your heart
He knows the way cuz he's already been
where you're going
Jesus will meet you there.

Photo: Having a great time at Fratelli Ristorante in Sandy, Utah for our family Christmas dinner.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-22T09:06:00.000-07:00

This past year has been a roller coaster ride. We’ve experienced loss of family members and enjoyed new life. We’ve been reminded of how precious our time on earth is and how much we mean to each other.

We are humbled to have experienced a modern miracle from God. I survived a challenging heart transplant.

After the surgery one of my Cardiologist said to the Deseret News, “I think Paul's benefiting from everybody’s prayers and his own faith. He’s got me convinced. I’ve known him for the last year, and I certainly can’t find a better explanation.”

Yes, it is because of your thoughtful prayers and faith. How can we express our appreciation for you and our friendship? It is impossible.

Truly, the Lord has been very kind.

More than ever you can imagine how happy we are to celebrate the birth of our Savior.

Psalms 147:3 reads “He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” This applies to all of us.

This holiday season please know our family loves you!

Adventures of a Funky Heart

2009-12-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate to do an interview with fellow congenital heart defect survivor and friend Steve Catoe. His popular blog, Adventures of A Funky Heart, provides wonderful insight into the world of congenital heart disease. He often travels to share his own story and provide hope and understanding concerning our chronic illness.

Living for Eden: Paul Cardall, Tricuspid Atresia

By Steve

Recently I had the chance to interview Paul Cardall, an award-winning musician, (His album Sacred Piano recently hit #5 on the Billboard New Age Album charts) Husband, Father, and fellow Heart Warrior. Like me, Paul has Tricuspid Atresia, (along with Transposition of the Great Arteries) and he recently underwent a successful heart transplant. I’ve kept you updated on Paul and his need for a transplant here on Funky Heart!, but you can read his entire story over at his blog, Living for Eden.

Funky Heart! readers have heard me describe my heart defect many times, but every defect is different – and its effects are different, from one CHDer to another. When I asked Paul to describe his heart defects in his own terms, he wrote “Before my heart transplant, I was born with what my parents and cardiologist called a half heart. Only half of my heart was functioning. The other half was either missing or not being used. As I grew into adulthood I learned the serious nature and depth of my congenital heart defect. I was living primarily on a single ventricle instead of two. In addition the major vessels that carry and deliver blood from my heart were swapped.”

CONTINUE THE INTERVIEW - CLICK HERE

Nurses in my Life

2009-12-08T09:07:00.000-07:00

There are 2.9 million nurses in the United States. My life is blessed because of the nursing profession.

My wife is one of them. For nearly a decade she has tirelessly worked the 12-hour shift occurring on nights, weekends, holidays, and regular days at LDS Hospital and Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, Utah in the newborn intensive care unit working with premature infants.

I’ve seen Lynnette come home so tired and emotionally drained because of concern over one of her patients that I’ve wondered what she’s been doing all day. Because of HIPPA laws she is not at liberty to tell me. However, I know somewhere out in our community there is a family who is better for having my wife in their life during a challenging time period to provide comfort and medical care.

As a professional patient living with a severe heart problem, I have not only fallen in love with and married one of the finest nurses, but I’ve been cared for by hundreds of these folks my entire life.

A couple of weeks ago, I was extremely fortunate with my wife to host a party for the many pediatric nurses who cared for me during my seven-week stay in Primary Children’s Medical Center when I received a heart transplant. They don’t usually see each other out of scrubs, so we enjoyed a wonderful time eating food, talking, and listening to several musician friends play music.

Photo: Some of my nurses from the PCMC CSU Unit

I could not think of a kinder group of people who selflessly serve and accommodate families without much public recognition. I can play a piece of music and an audience of a thousand applauds. Yet, these nurses tenderly and quietly care for individuals and no one knows about it except those involved. Such acts of kindness and service are the miracles distributed in the medical community.

Gratitude by Duane Cardall

2009-11-26T09:08:00.000-07:00

Today I am grateful for family. Trials can destroy a family or bring them closer together. Our family is stronger because of what we've been through this past year. My extended family is stronger. I attribute my own success and the success of our extended family to the wisdom and love of my mother and father who've always put us first.

My father, a professional journalist for more than 35 years, was invited to speak at the annual Thanksgiving Interfaith Service in Salt Lake City. I was fortunate to read his speech and loved what he had to say. I thought you would also appreciate his message this holiday season. It's a wonderful perspective into what it means to be grateful.

Thanksgiving Interfaith Service

Federal Heights Chapel

November 26, 2009

by Duane Cardall

Director of Editorials, KSL Broadcasting

Some of you may know that a couple of months ago, my oldest son Paul received a remarkable and life-saving gift. After living 36-years with a very complex congenital heart defect, and at a time when he was failing rapidly after more than a year on the heart transplant waiting list, he received a donated heart.

A lot could be said of that miraculous experience but in the context of our discussion today, one moment stands out in my mind. A couple of weeks into his recovery as we sat in his hospital room I noticed that he was looking at his hands.

“Dad,” he said, “you got any fingernail clippers?”

I didn’t, but I had to ask why.

“My fingernails are growing,” he said.

For 36-years, his nails grew very slowly, presumably for lack of a normal supply of oxygenated blood. His nails were clubbed and only needed trimming every few months. Now, though, after only two weeks with a normal four-chamber heart, his extremities were receiving a normal supply of rich, oxygenated blood and his fingernails, for the first time in his life, were growing straight and relatively rapidly. He needed to trim them.

That is something most of us, I suspect, would never consider. I certainly didn’t until that moment in Paul’s hospital room. Finger nails just grow! They need to be regularly trimmed. It is a fact of daily life and ongoing personal hygiene . . . . Something most of us simply take for granted.

Photo: With My Father a few days ago

It got me thinking. How many things like that in life do we take for granted - things that for one reason or another become so routine that we fail to recognize the wonder of their presence in our lives? And when we fail to acknowledge them, it seems most likely our gratitude for what we have is lacking.

Let’s talk about a few of those things in life we may have a tendency to take for granted, but are deeply consequential, nonetheless, and for which we should be ardently, even constantly grateful, while offering eternal prayers of thanksgiving.

The more thankful we are for little things, or those aspects and elements of our lives that are routinely available, the more complete will be our gratitude for the more identifiable and oft-considered impressive “big” things.

Specifically, let’s talk about the material abundance that surrounds us, the freedom we enjoy in this nation, and the presence of family and loved ones.

Gratitude for Material Abundance

Some years ago I went to a meeting called by the Board of Directors of the Upper Canal Irrigation Company. We own a share of upper canal water and at the time used the water provided to irrigate our garden. I was concerned, as everybody else was that year, about reports that we were not going to be able to get our irrigation water. I recall sitting in the meeting with a couple of hundred semi-irate water users. We were frustrated! We were angry! Summer was heating up, our crops were starting to grow and we didn’t have irrigation water. Never mind that every one of us in that meeting had cold culinary water available to us at the turn of a tap. Never mind that it had only been a couple of weeks since the last rainfall. Never mind that our grocery stores were well-stocked and our gardens were hobbies more than projects born of necessity. We were mad! We wanted our water. We wanted it right then, not later.

As I sat there I thought to myself, “What are you doing, Cardall? After what you’ve been through the last couple of weeks, do you have any right to complain about the lack of irrigation water?”

I had recently returned from a journey to Africa for work on a television documentary about a new humanitarian effort launched by a group of Utahns under the auspices of the Salt Lake Community Services Council to initiate long-term assistance to a group of villages in the nation of Mali.

I hadn’t heard much about Mali prior to that time. It didn’t take me long to learn that Mali is one of the poorest nations on earth. At the time the per capita income was a meager $140 a year and the average person lives only to the age of 39 and where one of every five children dies in infancy, where drought often takes a relentless toll allowing the vast Sahara Desert to advance at an alarming rate.

To visit Mali, I found, was to take a giant step back in time to conditions that are so alien to our perceptions as to defy description. Regardless, let me try to paint a verbal picture of what I remember.

This brings me back to the subject of water. As I sat in that water users meeting that year, images of an incredibly dry landscape popped into my mind. I also recalled scenes around life-sustaining wells that supplied enough of the precious fluid for the people to survive. Let me try to provide an image of what I mean:

It is an image of a woman standing beside a well three or four kilometers from the thatched roof hut she calls a home. By hand she lowers a tiny rubber bucket into a hole 80-90-100 feet down and then with muscles hardened from years of survival labor, she lifts the precious liquid to the surface and pours it into a larger container. Then she lifts the full container to her head and begins the long walk back to her home. Now remember, she is three or four kilometers from her home. She’ll make the journey a couple of times each day just so her family will have enough water to drink and to cook and to survive. Think about it next time you go to the tap to fill a glass, stoop to the sink to wash your face, or turn the knob to start your dishwasher.

Another image:

The woman is back in her village. The heat is stifling and yet there is food to prepare, for her family must eat. She stands at the mortar and pours in a measure of millet, takes the pestle – a long stick about four or five feet long – and with rhythmic precision she begins the tedious process of pounding the grain into edible flour. Tied to her back is a baby and around her feet are a half dozen more. A neighbor will come and together they will pound, and as they pound they sing. This pounding goes on, in between trips to the well, throughout the day. There is no rest for the women of Mali. Theirs is a subsistence level existence, a daily struggle for survival, and with indomitable determination they somehow survive.

Let me give you another image - this one of the men of Mali. There in the field in Sungala Traore and his two young sons, Adama and Daoda. The boys are young, perhaps six and four, though we don’t know for sure. We can’t know their ages because no record was made of their birth. Age is of little concern to the people of Mali just as time is not measured in hours and days but by rainy seasons and by dry seasons. In any case, there is Sungala and his two young sons. Each one of them has an eighteen inch tool called a Daba. It is a short hoe-like tool they use to chop the earth and till the soil. The rainy season, hopefully is approaching, and the fields must be prepared for cultivation. Hour after hour, they bend toward the earth chopping and pounding and gradually making progress. The little one, the three or four year old, works as hard as his brother and father! One wonders if life will ever grant him something more than a continuous quest for food. What a challenging existence for a little child!

The men of Mali are farmers. The Daba is the main farm implement. By hand, using the Daba, they plow, they sow, they weed, they harvest. Year after year, generation after generation, century after century it has been the same in Mali! Think about it next time you open your refrigerator, go to the supermarket, or stop at your favorite restaurant. Let your thoughts turn to the men . . . and the little boys of Mali next time you fire up your lawnmower, your mechanized edger, or your snow blower.

I could go on. My intent is not to make us feel guilty about our abundant lives, but to awaken us to a renewed appreciation for what we have, who we are and where we are. Isn’t it wonderful that later today we’ll sit down to a delicious multi-course meal with all of the trimmings? Isn’t it a blessing that we have plenty of running water, large comfortable homes to shelter us from the elements, beautiful lawns and colorful gardens, automobiles to haul us around, plates and utensils for eating, clothes to wear and shoes to protect our feet and appliances of convenience like stoves, mixers and refrigerators.

You should know that since those early days of the Utah Ouelessebougou Alliance, significant progress has been made in certain areas of Mali. Life in many ways IS improving. Some of you, mostly likely, have donated individually, or through organizations with which you’re associated to the effort to improve life in the villages of Ouelessebougou.

Again, my purpose in offering these images from a journey taken years ago is not to make us feel guilty, but hopefully to stir feelings of appreciation and deep gratitude for what we have. We should never take our privileged circumstances for granted just as I hope and pray our family will never take for granted my son Paul’s growing fingernails.

Gratitude for Freedom

Let’s turn for a few minutes to another aspect of our lives that we sometimes have a tendency to take for granted and yet is absolutely essential to the blessings and overwhelming material abundance that we enjoy in this community, state and nation. I speak of freedom, particularly the kind of political freedom that allows for the blossoming of individual talents and collective excellence.

In August, 1991, Margaret and I were on vacation in Russia. Our itinerary included a cruise down the Volga River from Moscow to Leningrad. It was an invigorating time to take such a journey. Great changes were occurring in the political make up of that part of the world. Institutional communism had essentially collapsed at break-neck speed through the fall of 1989 as a revolutionary wave swept through Eastern Europe. The tearing down of the Berlin Wall symbolized what was happening. That was 20-years ago this month.

On our vacation journey not long after those stunning and momentous, and totally unexpected events, we found ourselves cruising toward Leningrad when we received word that communist hardliners were attempting to take control of the country from Soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev. Needless to say, we worried for our safety. The uncertainty and fluidity of the situation had all of us deeply concerned, yet as events unfolded it became another of those life-enriching experiences for which we will always be grateful.

After a restless night on our cruise ship, and as we approached the dock in Leningrad, what we witnessed allayed some of our concerns. Though the Soviet Union was in turmoil, there on the dock to greet us was a brass band . . . and the song they were playing: “God Bless America.” It seemed they wanted to make us feel welcomed.

After a lot of discussion by those responsible for our tour, it was decided that the situation in Leningrad was stable enough that we could go ahead with our bus tour of the city. 15 or 20 minutes into that tour, the bus Margaret and I were on approached Hermitage Square, where we saw tens of thousands of people gathered for what appeared to be a demonstration. The journalist in me overwhelmed the tourist side of me and armed with a small borrowed camcorder, and much to Margaret’s dismay, I jumped off the bus and proceeded to go to work to document the story of the rebirth of freedom in Russia. I later learned I was the only western journalist in Leningrad at the time. My reporting received widespread attention.

Let me try to paint a verbal image. There on the square where the Bolshevik Revolution was launched in 1917 were tens of thousands of Russians demonstrating in support of the reforms recently implemented by Gorbachev. And they did it in the face of some danger, for lining the streets approaching the square were scores of military transport vehicles filled with armed soldiers awaiting the word to march in and clear the square.

More could be said of what we witnessed at that location, but move with me, if you will, to another of the great public squares in Leningrad – or St. Petersburg as it is now. We had heard that much was also going on in St. Isaac’s Square, so I made my way there to witness something most remarkable. It was as if the good freedom-longing citizens of that magnificent historic city were preparing for war. Each street leading to the square reminded me of the famous barricade scene of Les Miserable, for the citizens had erected crude barricades from whatever they could find – desks, mattresses, and chairs . . . and whatever else they could carry from surrounding buildings. It was their intent, if needed, to stand up to any government troops sent their way, as futile as it would be.

What I will never forget, though, were the small groups of men marching through the square in a form of short-order drill, in traditional military fashion. I walked up to one of the groups with my camera rolling and shouted: “Does anyone speak English?” One man said yes and broke from the ranks to speak with me.

“What are you doing,” I asked.

“We are training and preparing to fight,” he replied.

“But you have no weapons,” I said.

And I’ll always remember the look in his eyes and the fire in his voice as he said pumping his fists, “But I have these and I will fight.”

“What are you fighting for,” I queried.

His reply was forthright and powerful. He said simply, “Freedom.”

It was a stunning, reflective moment. Here were a people who had been oppressed for decades, but who recently had tasted the sweet opportunity of freedom and they didn’t want to lose it. They were willing to put their lives on the line to preserve what they had just begun to experience.

So what does this have to do with us on this Thanksgiving day?

Sometimes as a people, I fear, we become complacent about the freedom we have enjoyed in this nation for the past 233 years. It is another of those aspects of our lives that we tend to take for granted. Of particular concern is the trend toward secularism that engulfs our nation and a growing reticence to acknowledge the Providential and spiritual underpinnings of what the Founders gave us in 1776 and beyond.

I fear the consequences if we get to the point in this nation when we have become so dramatically secularized that a majority of the citizens no longer acknowledge the hand of God in the nation’s establishment, and turn from thanking Him profusely for the freedom and abundance we enjoy.

We must never forget, as George Washington proclaimed in 1789 “to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor.”

Let that be a part of our prayers of thanksgiving later today.

Gratitude for Family

Let’s turn now to another aspect of our lives that we too often take for granted, and I speak of those who are nearest and dearest to us – our families. I’ll beg your indulgence in allowing me to become a bit personal here. I do it only because Stan Parish suggested that I do.

Our family has had a rather stressful year. In saying that, I realize that most families face a steady stream of challenges in one way or another, and that others have experienced things far more traumatic than us. I empathize with whatever it may be that you and yours are struggling with. At the same time, I firmly believe there are great, powerful and overwhelming blessings that come through the crucible of adversity . . . and the burdens associated with those challenges can be lessened dramatically through acknowledging those many blessings, focusing on their presence in our lives and by regularly offering genuine expressions of gratitude and thanksgiving to God for them.

Of course, it is difficult, if not impossible to say that our son Brian’s tragic death in June was a blessing. The way it happened, the publicity it generated and the grief it caused are anything but blessed. It was especially difficult for his young widow and his two-year-old daughter. But then I think of the blessings that have filled our lives since that sad day, and my soul is overwhelmed with feelings of gratitude for the reality of a loving God who doesn’t desert His children in times of trial.

Photo: Dad holding my brother's baby girl Bella Aspen Cardall

-Without Brian’s death we never would have experienced the overwhelming outpouring of love and support we felt from extended family, neighbors, friends, colleagues and many, many strangers. Through cards, emails, phone calls and visits we learned how broad our circle of loving support is . . . something I never would have expected or anticipated. What a blessing!

-Through Brian’s death our family coalesced and unified in ways that likely never would have occurred otherwise. As a father, I will always be grateful for the tender expressions of love that I observed being shared by his siblings and their children, my grandchildren. What a blessing!

-With his death, I came to realize that I had taken many of my son’s accomplishments for granted. Through heartfelt eulogies, tributes and other less formal expressions, I learned of his extraordinarily keen intellect and the monumental contributions he was making as an innovative scientist toward improving our world. What a blessing to have that knowledge.

Photo: Hitting a bucket of balls a few days ago with my dad

-Through Brian’s death, our family gained renewed understanding that mortality is indeed fleeting, and that we are all part of some “great eternal plan.” It gave us special appreciation for what happened on Calvary and for the promise of life beyond this mortal realm, as evidenced by the empty tomb. What a blessing!

-Most certainly among the blessings we count, is the presence of Brian’s little daughter, born three months after his death. Through her, we have an extension of him, and that is a blessing for which we will be forever grateful.

I want you to know that where God taketh, he also giveth. One of the reasons our expression of gratitude this thanksgiving will be overflowing is because of the miraculous extension of life of our oldest son, Paul. I told you about his fingernails. As we approached his heart transplant in September, and because of the severity and complexity of his congenital heart defect, we were fully prepared for Paul to be in the hospital for a month or two following his surgery. In fact, the medical team suggested we would be fortunate to have him home by Thanksgiving. Yet, he was released from the hospital just two weeks following surgery and his recovery is proceeding at a remarkably accelerated rate. He is hiking and biking and playing vigorously with his four-year-old daughter. The other day he and I went and hit a bucket of golf balls. He’s back at work as a creative musician and recording artist preparing for his “Celebration of Life” concert at Abravanel Hall in February.

May I witness to you in all humility that miracles do occur! They are real and remarkable and resoundingly wonderful.

Never cease to give God thanks for such providential involvement in the affairs of man. Never take for granted the presence of loved ones in our lives, nor the freedoms that abound in our lives, and have a constant, unwavering attitude of gratitude for the material abundance that so dramatically distinguishes our lives from 90-percent of the people living on this earth today.

Consciously “counting our many blessings” as the song says, and expressing gratitude for them can be remarkably therapeutic. The offering of a genuine prayer of thanksgiving tends to take our mind off of our personal woes and allows us to focus more positively on those things in our lives that are uplifting and good and beneficial. Moreover, it puts us in a state of mind to reach out more consistently to others who may be in need of having their burdens lightened.

Photo: My father putting his arm around his grandson Colby Child after his team experienced an upsetting loss in the finals.

In closing, I’ve been thinking of an experience I had some years ago when I traveled to England to document the first foreign journey of President Gordon B. Hinckley after he became President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In the course of that weeklong adventure, we went to a village north of Preston for a brief visit with one of President Hinckley’s former missionary companions. It was delightful to watch those two old friends reminisce about days gone by.

As we were about to leave, Bob Pickles said to Gordon Hinckley, “I don’t know how you do it, all of this travel and activity at your age,” I’ll always remember President Hinckley’s reply. “I’ll tell you what you do Bob. You go to bed each night, but you be sure to get up in the morning.”

“Is that what it is,” said Bob.

“That’s what it is,” replied Gordon.

And may I add, that when you go to bed each night offer up prayers of gratitude for all that you’ve been given . . . and be sure to get up the next morning with an eye to doing good and enjoying the profound and unceasing blessings of a new day.