Update

Jul 27, 2010

So I finished everything I needed to get done that is within my power.  Did the Barium Swallow yesterday, which was no big deal at all.  Now I need to see the nutritionist and the psychiatrist. I had still not heard from the nutritionist so I called her this afternoon and they said that my packet was faxed over on the 22nd, and that was the day of their meeting.  Well the nutritionist said that my packet had still not made it to her so it was probably still on the pre-certification lady's desk.  I asked her when the next meeting was going to be and she told me that not until the 12th or 26th of August!!  I was so aggravated.  I told her that I had anticipated being fast tracked because I go back to school on the 9th and wanted to be done with all my appointments before going back to work.  She couldn't even guarantee me a spot for the 12th.  It was too late to call the surgeon's office so I emailed them and let them know that I was disappointed and needed their help fast tracking.  If I don't hear from them tomorrow morning I'll be calling and reiterating what I said!  I know they can't make miracles happen but the surgeon, nurse, and I had talked about this issue and they seemed to be ok with it, so that's the only reason I was a little irritated.  

On a positive note, I did go and sit down and talk with my principal.  As some of you might remember I posted about this and how worried I was about taking the time off.  Before I went to visit with her I went down to the Human Resources department at the school board office and found out all of the requirements for taking my medical leave.  I have 90 days of medical leave that I haven't taken.  I'll get paid for 10 full days and then get 65% of my pay after that.  I have money saved and have heard from some people that going back after about 4 weeks is good because you've finished eating the liquids and mushies and you can be somewhat normal when you go back, so as long as my surgeon will give me the recommendation to stay off that long that's what I am planning on doing.  She's totally down with the surgery now that I explained that I'd take care of getting the sub acquainted with my routines, lesson plans, procedures, etc.  We had a great conversation about it and I explained everything to her and she was very receptive.  So now I am so relieved and can go into this knowing that not only do I have 100% support from everyone I've told, but I will not have to worry about animosity from my boss for taking the time off.

Lastly, I've started telling some of my other family members since it's a pretty sure thing now.  I told all of my cousins (we are close) and I told my grandparents.  I had debated on whether or not to tell them because they do worry about surgeries and those kinds of things--they are in their 80s and they do sit around and worry about us, but in the end I decided that they probably already worry about me because of my health and they want me to be around for longer.  They took it so well and actually had tears in their eyes they were so happy for me.  Everyone has been really supportive.  Haven't told any more friends yet though.  I told all my closest friends, so the other people I'll probably just tell them as they notice the weight I'm losing.

Nothing much else to report...just hoping I hear good news back from the surgeon's office tomorrow! I have an appointment tomorrow to talk about my food allergies with my ENT.  Should be interesting finding out which of those foods I have to avoid forever.  It's actually great that I'll be able to know those things before I meet with the nutritionist-she'll have her hands full with me! Haha!  Later everyone!! :)

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