Surgery date

Yesterday Ron and I met with the thoracic surgeon.  Dr. T. answered all our questions before we could even ask them.  He was very personable and put us at ease immediately.  I was especially impressed by the fact that he didn't talk AT us but WITH us.  He showed us the PET scan images (first time we've seen them) and that helped us to visualize just how much this growth has changed in the past few months.  

All Dr. T's surgeries are performed in the new hospital across town.  That was a relief to me because the other hospital has had issues with hospital acquired infections.  All Dr. T's patients are on the 4th floor where he has more control over their care.  (Another plus)  He welcomed us to get a second opinion if we desired but we were satisfied with everything we heard and scheduled the surgery for May 3rd.  That will give us a little more time to get our ducks in order. 

My anxiety has lessened considerably and hope Ron's has too.  It was interesting Dr. T. said men are always concerned about pain and women not so much.  He said the first thing men want to know is "How much will it hurt and what are you going to do about it?" Ron is no exception.  That was his biggest concern.  Plus for some reason he thought they were going to break his ribs.  I don't know why he thought that but they are going to spread them apart not break them.  As Dr. T. said.....and it will hurt and for quite some time.  He did say that Ron would probably have more pain after he leaves the hospital than while he is in it.  (oh hooray for me....I get to have cranky pants all to myself)  and for as long as we both shall live....................that's the BEST part! 

Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around. You tell them things that you’ve never shared with another soul and they absorb everything you say and actually want to hear more. You share hopes for the future, dreams that will never come true, goals that were never achieved and the many disappointments life has thrown at you. 

When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement. They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself. Never do they hurt your feelings or make you feel like you are not good enough, but rather they build you up and show you the things about yourself that make you special and even beautiful. 

There is never any pressure, jealousy or competition but only a quiet calmness when they are around. You can be yourself and not worry about what they will think of you because they love you for who you are. The things that seem insignificant to most people such as a note, song or walk become invaluable treasures kept safe in your heart to cherish forever. 

Memories of your childhood come back and are so clear and vivid it’s like being young again. Colors seem brighter and more brilliant. Laughter seems part of daily life where before it was infrequent or didn’t exist at all. A phone call or two during the day helps to get you through a long day’s work and always brings a smile to your face. In their presence, there’s no need for continuous conversation, but you find you’re quite content in just having them nearby. 

Things that never interested you before become fascinating because you know they are important to this person who is so special to you. You think of this person on every occasion and in everything you do. Simple things bring them to mind like a pale blue sky, gentle wind or even a storm cloud on the horizon. 

You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible. You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you. You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate who will remain loyal to the end. Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile. Your only hope and security is in knowing that they are a part of your life.”
― Bob Marley