Rory Feek and his family need some prayers.
Videos by Wide Open Country
The "Gentle Man" singer shared on social media and Substack that his daughter, Indiana, is preparing to undergo open-heart surgery today, June 24.
Why Does Rory Feek's Daughter Need Surgery?
Indiana has Down syndrome. According to Feek, doctors say that about half of those born with the condition have "heart issues."
"And some are much worse than others," he added.
It was around February 2014, doctors told Feek that Indiana had a small hole in her heart. It is called a ventricular septal defect, or VSD. In some cases, the hole closes over time. However, doctors still needed to keep an eye on it.
However, in Indiana's case, the hole didn't close up. It began to cause "a few complications."
For example, Indiana gets winded while playing with friends and "doesn't have the stamina many children her age have." Otherwise, her health has been "pretty much perfect."
"We've always known that open heart surgery was a possibility," wrote Feek. "But this last appointment in January confirmed that it was something that was going to be needed to be done, sooner than later."
Rory Feek Has Been Trying to Get His Daughter "Emotionally Ready"
Indiana's cardiologist explained that the VSD isn't currently life-threatening. However, if it isn't repaired, "it could affect not just her quality of life, but the length of life as well."
Feek said the hardest part about the whole experience has been getting Indiana "emotionally ready for what's coming." While it's going to be hard on everyone, Feek knows "it's going to make her life better."
The surgery could take anywhere from six to seven hours. Then Indiana will likely be in intensive care for about a week. After that, she can recover at home for six to eight weeks.
Feek ended his update with a prayer:
"Lord, bless Indy's sweet, precious heart...and be with her in these difficult days to come".
He also included an address if anyone wants to send Indiana a get-well card. The address can be found here.
