This illustrated journal chronicles the story of my husband's diagnosis and treatment for a deadly heart problem which required open-heart surgery. The story was written, drawn, and painted in real time while I waited during the long hours of diagnostic and pre-op appointments, surgery, and recovery. Sketching and journaling helped me cope with the worry, fear, and uncertainty which were an unavoidable part of having a loved one undergo critical lifesaving surgery. I hope our experiences will stand as testimony to the resilience of the human spirit and the role that courage and optimism (and a small sketch kit) can play in promoting a good outcome.