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LDS musician waits for heart transplant

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My prayers go out to this fine | 1:21 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

man who is not only very talented, but a terrific person as well. I wish for the very, very best, and all blessings for him.

Good Luck Paul | 2:52 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

My hopes and prayers go out to you as well. Your faith will see you through.

Good Luck Elder Cardall | 6:54 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

I had the privilege of serving in the same mission as Paul, and although I never was his companion, I did on multiple occasions hear him play the piano for the mission conferences. You could instantly tell what a talent he possessed. I always heard the tales of the heart condition he had, and yet by his attitude and disposition you would never know of the personal struggles he obviously has dealt with his whole life. Good luck Paul! I hope things work out for you soon!

Comments continue below

Crathes | 7:38 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Met Paul a few years ago. One of the most giving people I have ever met. Wish I had an extra heart, and I would be glad to share!

Joe | 7:59 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Paul is a wonderfully gifted musician. I wish you and your family the best!

Heart Mom | 8:56 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

As the mother of a child with a congenital heart defect, I have been inspired by Paul and his journey. I have appreciated his faith, insight and friendship. Thank you Paul for helping me see all that my son can become. We are praying for you!

Nancis | 9:15 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Paul - I was at the funeral for Gracie, and your music was very touching and beautiful. I know that you hadn't played for awhile in public, but I'm sure it meant so much to the Gledhill family. Your music is very inspiring, and you have a lot to give still. Good luck with getting a transplant soon. Our prayers are with you!!

Just a Fan! | 9:28 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

I met Paul for the first time at the "Roof" on a Valentines day several years ago. My wife and I were celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary. I simply introduced myself and expressed my graditude for his gift. Several years later I met him again as he was participating in an appreciation evening for Utah Foster Care parents. I don't know Paul personally but his goodness and love for all things in his life are very evident in his music. I wish all of Gods blessings to sustain you and your family as you pass through this most difficult challenge.

Wonderful Family | 9:43 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

The Cardalls are a wonderful family. I love Paul's albums he has created. I listen to his beautiful piano playing and it brings a measure of the Spirit into my life. Paul will never know how many lives he has touched through his beautiful talent.

Ken | 9:44 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Hang in there buddy. Having been unemployed for the past year and a half (after doing 2 years of the same five years ago), I know what it feels like to wait for the phone to ring.

I suspect you'll get your new heart and look back on this time with a whole lot of perspective and maybe even appreciation...

Dan Gerber | 9:45 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Grew up in the same stake as Paul and have watched his struggles since his childhood. He's a real inspiration to me. Good luck with everything, Paul. My family's prayers and thoughts are with you!

There is a solution | 10:22 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

There are probably countries where if people were paid, they would allow their organs to be harvested when they die.

Why isn't a system set up to do this?

It should be a country where they don't make use of organ transplants much because of the cost.

Soon because of stem cell research, it will be possible to take one's own stem cells and make an organ that is entirely compatible with the person, there will be no risk of rejection or need for rejection drugs.

Lets speed along this research.

Thank You | 10:23 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Paul, I want to thank you for your work the past few months in creating the website for your brother, Brian. It has been very interesting and uplifting learning about Brian's life. He certainly lived a full and adventurous life! I can't believe all the outdoor activities he enjoyed. What a great example to live life to the fullest. He was so gifted and talented. Thank you for honoring him and sharing his world with us.

Kevin | 10:23 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

To a small extent I know your feelings, I waited for a Kidney, that wait for a phone call and the always looking at the news and obituaries was an emotion I was not ready for. You have much to give and new experiences are awaiting, be patient, good luck, May God continue to bless you.

waiting | 10:30 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

I thought waiting for transplants would only happen if Obamacare was instituted. Whatever the case, my heart goes out to this young man.

Re waiting: | 11:12 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Obamacare would probably make more people eligible for a transplant. If you don't have insurance, you don't get a transplant unless you can pay the 400k average for your transplant surgery. Since most transplant recipients are too sick to work, they don't have private insurance meaning that they become eligible for Medicare. Without medicare, only the very wealthy would be getting transplants. Although I don't like Obamacare, you have to admit that people who cannot get insurance due to pre-existing conditions would have an opportunity to get on a list.

DesNews Facebook | 11:30 a.m. Aug. 24, 2009

One of our Facebook fans said the following: "Paul is such a special man, with a beautiful spirit. may he be blessed with his heart!"

K | 12:39 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Every one who posted comments on here..heck... every one who reads this article...If you want to help Paul, don't just pray for him (although that will work miracles, too!)

SIGN UP TO BE AN ORGAN DONOR!

Do it right now! You will bless many lives. I know this from personal experience. (It's why my son has his eyesight today.)

Hang in there Paul | 1:45 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

You will be in our prayers tonight.

hev | 6:49 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Paul,

I have always enjoyed your music and, indeed, my youngest daughter did as well. We would sit together on our living room couch and play your CDs and just "be" together.

Those memories are some of my most memorable shared with her, as she passed away 5 years ago at the age of 14. You may never know just how much of an impact using your gift has inspired, uplifted and enabled me to feel the Spirit. Thank you for sharing.

I pray that you will be strengthened and filled with peace.

Holly

Anonymous | 6:49 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

I truly hope this story has a happy ending. Your story inspired my new teen driver to designate herself as an organ donor. Thank you.

Primary's? | 7:02 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

I guess I don't understand why he's at Primary Children's. I understand that they have been treating him since he was a child, but Primary's is very selective about their bed space. I saw Duane Cardall there when my son was at Primary's last Fall. Now I understand who he was visiting.

Heather & Sam | 7:24 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Paul,
We just want to say how much we love your music. Your music for "Gracie" has been a favorite. I just heard it last week. We have six children and our baby girl, "Cadence Grace" passed away in her sleep (SIDS) Dec. 16 2008. Your music has been so comforting and amazing. I truly pray the Lord will preserve your life so that you can share your music with out pain and illness. What ever happens, I believe it's part of your purpose and your music will reach lives no matter what. Still, it's worth trying to get a transplant. My niece had a low bowel, pancreas, and liver transplant. She lived 12 more years. Another friend had a baboon heart/kidney and is still alive and has given birth to three or four. Good luck. We are praying for you.
The Richey Family

R. MacFarlane | 7:32 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Paul, we really love your inspiring music! Anyone who listens to your music can get a glimpse of the great person you are! Hope everything will be well with you. My baby brother had the same heart defect, he only lived to be 18 months old but it was truly wonderful to have had the chance to have him for that short time.

All the best for you and your family!

Why Primary's? | 7:40 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Why Primary's? Because he has a congenital heart defect (CHD). That means that his heart condition was present when he was born.

Doing a transplant into a patient with a failed Fontan operation, like Paul has, will be very different than doing a transplant into someone with a regular heart.

Treating CHDs is a very specialized field of medicine, and the specialists work at the children's hospitals.

Anonymous | 7:52 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

While I feel for him, and encourage people to be organ donors, Non LDS people need transplants, too.

sam best | 7:56 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

I feel for him, I'm sure he is very brave in a troubling situation... but at the risk of sounding "anti", why does it matter if he is LDS??? Why is that in the headline??? Would it be any less heart-wrenching if he were of a different religion??? I’m not trying to be disrespectful, I just don’t understand why his Religious affiliation is prudent.

To: Anonymous and sam best | 8:37 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

It doesn't matter that he's LDS. The headline says he's an "LDS Musician" simply to identify him. You're reading into it if you think it is implied that he needs a transplant more because he is LDS. Come on!

K Alldredge | 8:55 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Hang in there Paul. Did I ever mention that your Christmas Box CD sold my house?! I played in on repeat when people would come to look through.

hh | 9:02 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Anonymous: Duh!

Doug | 9:24 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Hang in there Paul. You were my EFY counselor. Thank you so much for your example.

HANG IN THERE PAUL! | 10:14 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Our family's prayers go out to Paul.

To everyone reading this... buy some of his music off of iTunes... it's really awesome!

ALSO, CALL OR WRITE OUR STATE LAWMAKERS AND TELL TO MAKE ORGAN DONATION AUTOMATIC FOR ALL DRIVERS LICENSE HOLDERS UNLESS ONE OPs OUT.

CTR | 11:38 p.m. Aug. 24, 2009

Paul is a very talented piano player, but he is also a very talented writer. If you are ever feeling down in the dumps, go to his web page and read some of his thoughts. I have followed his blog for a year now and I can't believe how positive Paul has been throughout this last year. He has been very uplifting to me many times. I hope that he gets his transplant soon...and yes, sign up to be a donor! Good luck Paul, and thanks for being a great example to us all.

Anonymous | 8:59 a.m. Aug. 25, 2009

Ours prayers are with you Paul.
God 's grace will heal you Paul keep faith and prepare yourself for the big day!

Anonymous | 9:25 a.m. Aug. 25, 2009

I've only recently discovered Paul's music. I LOVE it so much. It really speaks to my heart. My prayers will be with you, Paul. Just hang in there and know people care. Valerie Wilson, Aiken,SC

california paul fan | 10:32 a.m. Aug. 25, 2009

Dearest Paul--our prayers are with you. Our daughter plays your music on our piano every Sunday after family dinner. Your music has been apart of our lives. We hope all will be well with you.

Janice | 12:46 p.m. Aug. 25, 2009

I was touched by the story and tears came to my eyes when I realized that I was playing Paul's music on Pandora Radio. My prayers are with you and your family.
Janice, Cedar City, Utah

Rod | 1:55 p.m. Aug. 25, 2009

God bless you and your family.

Cici | 2:21 p.m. Aug. 25, 2009

Paul is my hero and a constant inspiration. I know he is due for a miracle very soon.

Pat from SC | 2:37 p.m. Aug. 25, 2009

My son died in Jan. and his organs saved the life of 5 people. Paul, I am grateful he was a organ donor and I know that there is someone's parent who will be blessed by your receiving their child's heart......I have been. Remember to: Think of Him, Thank Him and Trust Him.

Neals from VA | 3:02 p.m. Aug. 25, 2009

Paul, I have enjoyed your music and knew nothing of your plight. My son has issues and it seems he will endure a life of struggle as well. I think the challenges we face are more than just a moment, they are an opportunity, an opening of chance. May your strong spirit and faith take you to the next opportunity. May your family be blessed. The lives of many are touched by your piano talent, but the lives of many are also changed by your testimony. Brent Top once spoke of us being 'tight like unto a dish' and prepared and that the Lord will do the rest.
May your dish be tight,
Neal Family in Virginia

Tammy Wood Lehi, Utah | 3:38 p.m. Aug. 25, 2009

My son was getting ready to prepare to serve an LDS mission, he loves fun, crazy music, the oldies etc. We wanted him to start to listen to music that would help him prepare for the mission... Luckily he somehow had an opportunity to listen to Paul Cardall's newest CD. He was touched inside when he listened to it and I could tell when he was getting closer to leave for his mission he played it over and over, We had Paul visit our youth with Mr. Gordon Wilson when Gordon knew Paul from SLCC. Our son liked him from that time on. We are "Paul Fans"
He brings great peace to our soul whenever we feel deep in thought. Now I listen to Paul because our son is in Mexico on his mission and it reminds me of him, and I think I'm closer to him, imagine that.......... You know us missionary Moms!!
Thanks Paul for the influence of good music and good memories as a family when we listen. It's great that our kids still listen to you even after they have moved out and begin their new little families.
Our prayers are with you

Decia Brown Decatur, AL | 4:43 p.m. Aug. 25, 2009

As a mom of a son born with Congenital Heart Defects my heart goes out to you and your family. I know what a difficult time this has been. I will conitue to keep you and your family in my daily prayers.

Stephanie from CA | 6:49 p.m. Aug. 25, 2009

Paul, your example of strenght and courage is a blessing to so many who have been battling congentital heart disease. My daughter is one of them, someday we will be waiting just like you are now. My prayers are with you and your family. Music brings great peace not only to those that play, but for those of us who get the chance to listen. Music has brought my daughter great joy as it obviously has done for you. Stay strong!

Shana | 9:44 p.m. Aug. 25, 2009

Paul, I am a donor. If I were to give my heart I would want it to go to someone like yourself who loves music and family. I am going to give one kidney in the very near future. I wish it were that easy to fiind you a heart. Best wishes to you and your family. Always trust that God knows the next move on this chess board of life and he wants us all to win. Trust Him.

Susan Hernandez | 11:25 p.m. Aug. 25, 2009

Your music has touched my heart. I have your on music all day long as I work in an elementary school library. The children love it refer to your music as, "peaceful music" because it calms them down. What more can I do than to pray for you? The Lord bless you and your family! Thank you for your inspirational and peaceful music!

Thank You! | 12:35 a.m. Aug. 26, 2009

Paul,

Your optimism and spiritual strength even, and especially, during difficult times is inspiring. You are talented and have blessed the lives of many. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers! Thank you for your example!

Mary J | 1:55 a.m. Aug. 26, 2009

My son had heart surgery twice at Children's Memorial in Chicago, IL. He was told that if he ever needs surgery again, that he can come back to Children's Memorial no matter how old he is because they did his other surgeries - just like Paul.

I've never listened to Paul's music, though I've seen his name and music mentioned. I will now try to get some. I feel Peaceful music is so important in this life we live today. Thank you, Heavenly Father, for the talents you have given to each of us to share with others.

Sharon Wehle | 7:50 a.m. Aug. 26, 2009

Paul, I was shocked when I learned of your situation. We own every album you have produced. Both of my sons,while serving their missions, got me started looking for your music. Your name would be one of the first they gave to me. One son just returned from Fresno, CA and the other is still in San Diego, CA.

On another note...my youngest son who is turning 14 on the 28th of Aug. was born with a serious heart defect. Before he was 4 he had 3 open heart surgeries and has been told that in his 30's just like you, there may be a need for a transplant. He had a Fontane performed before 4. My faith, like yours, is that he still has a mission to perform and his life is in Heavenly Father's hands. Jonathan is our miracle child. You are in our prayers and you are an inspiration to our family. Thank you so much for your faith and gifts of music which you share with us all.
Wehles from Virginia

JoAnn | 4:29 p.m. Aug. 26, 2009

Paul, I remember the little boy living in our neighborhood who struggled with illness. I'm so glad you grew up to be such a wonderful example of strength and determination. We pray for you regularly and know the Lord will put forth His hand and give you what is best for you. Good luck and God bless.

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