Teacher's heart transplant successful

Teacher's aide Linda Peton, who has drawn the support of teachers and students during her struggle with a failing heart, received a transplant during a seven-hour surgery early Wednesday morning.

"The doctors said that it didn't just go good, it was perfect," reported fellow Carson High School teacher's aide Pam White, who was by her friend's side as she prepared for surgery. "We couldn't have asked for better."

Peton under went chemotherapy, which resulted in heart failure, after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 1991.

The situation became dire early this year, and Peton traveled to the University of Utah in June to wait for a heart transplant.

After more than two months, the call finally came at 3:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Although the surgery did not get started until around 8 that evening, White said, Peton remained calm.

"She didn't have a lot of anxiety," White said. "She had a lot of peace."

The delay allowed time for Peton's husband, Terry, a custodian at Carson High School, and other members of her family to get to the hospital.

"It was very nice," White said.

White said the doctors also have helped ease Peton's worries.

"The University of Utah staff has been absolutely wonderful," she said.

"Within three or four hours (of her surgery), she was awake and talking and had the respirator off," White said. "It was amazing."

It was welcome news for friends waiting back at home, as well.

"I cried my eyes out, I was so relieved," said teacher Angila Golik.

However, White said, doctors warned that this is a critical time to make sure Peton's body accepts the heart. The healing process will be painful as well.

Peton has to remain at the hospital for at least six months as she recovers. The cost of staying there, while her husband maintains their Carson City home, and for medications remains overwhelming for her family.

White worries the financial stress could hinder Peton's recovery.

Carson High School staff is planning a pancake breakfast at 7 a.m. Sept. 14 at the school to raise money for the Peton family. Anyone wishing to provide food for the breakfast or make a cash donation can call Carson High School at 283-1910.

Checks made out to Linda Peton care of Angila Golik or Grace Greener can also be mailed to Carson High School, 1111 N. Saliman Road, Carson City, NV 89701.