Imagine the scene: you are in the doctor's office, an array of EKGs, echocardiograms, and other test results splayed around the room. The doctor's face is grim but resolute. "Your heart is so severely damaged that you will surely die without a transplant. I've placed your name on the waiting list; in a few months, we'll schedule the surgery and when it's over, God willing, you'll be healed. No more gasping for breath when you walk across the room. No shooting pains. You'll be your old self again, only better." 

Your mind is reeling with the news. There are so many questions you want answered! Patiently the doctor walks you through what is to come, and eventually, the day you dread and hope for arrives. "Get to the hospital. We have a new heart for you." Most of your energy and thoughts a…