Today is Day 12 of the Art Apple A Day Retrospective – for information on the project click here.

Day Twelve – October 12, 2010

Looking back 10 years ago today…

I see a pig with an apple… but that’s not the full story. (You’re starting to catch on, aren’t you!) The full story is hinted at in the original post on Day Twelve by a comment made by my husband, Doug ~ HERE

When my family sees a pig we see my Dad. And although the above is an “appropriate” image that might come up in relation to apples, it is only half of what inspired this pig. My Dad does not have AS although there are a few “things” that show perhaps he has some of the markers and genetic possibilities to have had AS get triggered. I mention this because he has the exact heart issue that some people with AS get.

About 15 years ago my Dad had to have open heart surgery to replace his aortic valve and it was replaced with a piggy part! Pigs are revered in my family – my Dad turned 76 this year and he’s amazing! He got a very strong pig valve apparently because he’s vital and still works full time (much to my mother’s dismay).

So… this little piggy… was created in honor of my Dad and all ASers and others who have had a successful aortic valve replacement!

If you have AS or a form of Spondylitis, please read the information about heart issues related to the disease and make sure your Rheumatologist and PCP are educated.

Much love until the story continues tomorrow!