Allen the Lionhearted

02/26/2026

So the kid is a bit bummed because his neurosurgeon is out sick today. Follow-up rescheduled for telehealth (hooray for no drive to Norfolk!) next Thursday.

02/24/2026

Well, the rockstar is all done. With no abnormal curvature, his relatively small size, and (perhaps most importantly) his ability to stay still, the MRI took only about an hour. Follow-up is Thursday in Norfolk.

02/24/2026

Today is the day. A TWO HOUR MRI study—full spine.

02/21/2026

This came up in memories today. Exactly 10 years ago. Where? The Gloucester Moose Lodge. And in just over a month, he hosts a blood drive in the same location! (March 27)

02/02/2026

And Allen found out in less than a week’s time this past week that four people he knows have a bicuspid aortic valve, too. Bicuspid aortic valve is the most common congenital heart defect, but it is one of five distinct “special features” that Allen’s heart has.

Congenital Heart Defects are the most common birth defect in the world❓

This join us in spreading awareness of worldwide while uplifting and strengthening the voices of all those affected by congenital heart disease❤️

01/31/2026

In the midst of all the blood drive energy today, CHKD called and we got his spinal MRI scheduled for February 24, with his followup appointment just two days later. He got his wish of having the MRI in Newport News instead of having to drive to Norfolk, but not as excited about the 0800 time. 😉

01/31/2026

The next drive is March 27 at the Gloucester Moose Lodge, from 9:30-2:30. It is already 2/3 full! ❤️ Here’s the link to sign up.

Find the nearest Red Cross blood, platelet or plasma donation center. Make a difference in someone's life, give the gift of life.

01/30/2026

What a way to celebrate his 3-year surgery anniversary! Today’s drive collected 48 units of blood, which have the potential to impact up to 144 lives. ❤️

01/30/2026

The cake has been cut!

01/29/2026

The neurosurgery consult went well. The doc isn’t worried about what he saw. He is ordering another MRI (no contrast, no IV!), and we’re hopeful that it can be done in Newport News instead of Norfolk. Thanks for praying!

01/29/2026

Four appointments remain open for tomorrow’s blood drive in the Newington gym. Sign up online or walk in!

Find the nearest Red Cross blood, platelet or plasma donation center. Make a difference in someone's life, give the gift of life.

01/29/2026

Shopping for the blood drive “on the house” at Walmart Gloucester!