Linda_M

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Yesterday my daughter and I headed out to Ocala, 2 1/2 hours away, to have my g-tube pressure relieved. All went well, Emily and I were enjoying each other and then 15 miles from exit 350 (our exit in Ocala) we came to a stand still.  It took us 3 1/2 hours to go that 15 miles.  She has an older Honda and when you aren't moving the air conditioner doesn't work. I can't tell you how hot it gets between those big rigs.  But we made it to the office at 4:40, 20 minutes to spare.  I was so worried we wouldn't get there before they closed.   
Okay, so I saw Kevin and all is well so we stopped for dinner to refresh the daughter and off we go.  Black clouds in the distance.  Yes, terrible storms.  But she did very well and kept her cool.  Until---- we came to some construction on the Turnpike and the car infront of us hydroplaned and hit an orange cone and went off the road.  She hydroplaned and was able to miss him but unfortunately we went into the flooded ditch.  Yes, the whole right side of the car was under water. I had to climb over the center console and out her side of the car.  She did some wonderful driving and I'm so proud of her.  Anyway, there was a Trouper on the other lane not 50 feet from us so he called for help.  I called AAA cause I knew other than water the car was fine.  We got into the Troopers car (the one that responded to us) to get out of the rain and watched 4 more crashes in that same area because of the cascading water over the roadway because of the construction.  Well, we finally got home at 10:30 leaving our car at the Turkey Lake Service Plaza.  Emily's friend came and got us there.  We have to figure out how to get it home today but I'm sure it will work out.  Glad I won't have to go to Ocala anymore. I'll do all my visits in Orlando now.  Hee hee

I was hoping to have some pressure taken off my g-beast on Monday but wasn't able to get to Orlando before Kevin left at 5.  But I'm going to go into Ocala tomorrow, yes a two plus hour drive, and he'll take care of it.  Yeah!! Other than that I'm just a little tired.  Family says they can already see the 17 pounds in my face and neck.  Makes me feel good and able to face pureed food a little longer.  I'm getting bored at home though. I'm used to working and being busy. 

Okay, one of the reason's I had this surgery was to save my left knee from the distruction my right experienced.  Eventually, my right was replaced and I truly LOVE my artifical knee (wish it were natural, but--). Now for my frustration.  4 days after my surgery my  'good' knee buckled on me causing much pain. I have a very high tolerance for pain but this was terrible.  Babied it for a couple of days and when it did it again I called my orthopedist.  He wants me to have an MRI but apparently I can't for 6 weeks after surgery because of the magnet in the MRI and the staples in my stomach.  Called Kevin to see if he agreed and yes he does. Why take the chance that some of the staples might have some metal in them.  They are supposed to be all stainless -but why take the chance.  Sounds like I'm waiting, but what do I do with this knee.  I can't trust it. Don't want to fall not only because of the surgery but because of my artifical knee.    
On the positive side I have lose a total of 14 pounds in 10 days.  I'll take that.  And I am in the 270's which I haven't seen in a couple of years.  Thank you!  I haven't had any trouble, knock on wood, with any nausia or any of the other common problems.  So all is going very well with the surgery, just not my knee.  poor knee

Saw Dr. S. yesterday and he removed my staples.  Said to start weening off the tube so that when I go in on August 6th to have it removed it won't leak.  Sounds like a plan.  I find I can get more protein in my mouth anyway.  Guess I'll only use it for night time meds for now.  Oh, I'm down 12.6 pounds and off blood pressure, and cholesterol meds. and cut down on the the RLS meds to half.  Wow.  for that I'll make friends with this g-tube.  My next appointment will be in Orlando.  That's only 45 minutes away, verses, 2 1/2 hours to Ocala. 

I have heard many times that day 7 is the turning point.  It is true!  Maybe because you've actually made it a week out of surgery and you are still alive.  I don't know, but whatever it is I'm thankful for it.    I actually cooked a full meal for my wonderful family, didn't mourn over not being able to eat it and was happy they had a mom cooked meal.  While they ate I had my creamed soup, applesauce and pudding.  Yeah!
Get to have my staples out tomorrow and really looking forward to it. Not the 2 1/2 hour trip to Ocala but it's worth it.  I went to school today just to see everybody. I'm not a good lazy person so I'm getting a little house bound.  I stay for 3 hours and was ready to go home.  Mainly for a comfortable place to sit.  I still need to recline to be 'comfortable'. I'm sure it's the g-tube.  I remember thinking when people would complain about the g-tube-'oh, buck up and deal with it' .  To all, I am forever sorry for thinking that.    It is a PAIN. 

If it weren't for the g-tube I'd feel great.  It has rained so much that I couldn't walk much so I was delighted that I was able to get out and walk at the store today.  I did very well. Didn't like the speed bumps in our neighborhood but all in all a very successful day out.  I had an allergic reaction to the dilaudid pain killer that included a yucky itchy rash on the back of my legs.  I hope the rash goes away soon cause it is so uncomfortable. My husband has really been a life saver.  He has been right there for me.  I get my staples out on Wednesday and I can't wait.  They don't hurt but I'm afraid I'm going to catch one and it will hurt.  Having trouble getting all the fluids and protein in but each day gets better. 

Yeah!!  I'm on the other side. Surgery was yesterday and I'm home today.  Feel great unless I move. lol   
Ed and Emily went with me and my sister, Sherrie was there for the surgery. Our son, Chris, stayed home to hold down the fort.  
I was very impressed with the hospital and the nursing staff.  Great exprience.  Thanks to all that helped me through this life changing experience. I'll post tomorrow when I have more energy.

We are leaving for Ocala now.  See you on the loser's side.

Okay, we have decided to go over to Ocala tomorrow afternoon after all.  So afraid of leaving here a 3 am and end up missing my check in time because of an accident on 528, turnpike or 75.  I feel better knowing I'll be in town. 
I just want it over--waiting is torture.  Still very excited and can't think of anything else.  I'm not nervous at all though.  I can't stand this diet but sticking to it.  On to liquids tomorrow and most likely traveling will be easier to handle the liquids. 
I've had wonderful support from everyone.  My teammates at school called to wish me luck, a good friend from CT wrote and invited me to St. Pete in April to show off my new body.  I know I won't be at goal or near it but it will be a new body no matter  what.  Yeah!  My dear friends here in Cocoa have all been extremely supportive as well as my wonderful husband and family.  Emily will be coming with us as she wants to be near me.  She and Ed are planning to stay in my room over night.  It's going to be crowded but I'm sure they are used to it.  
Well, see you tomorrow for a final post before surgery.

Pre-op was yesterday and yes, it was a very long day.  But it was also a very wonderful day.  The office group meeting at Dr. J's office was very informative and reassuring.  This office is so well run it's like a well oiled machine.  Yes, I used one of my dad's sayings. I guess I really am getting old.   After the office visit we all went over to the hospital to have lab work, EKG, chest ex-ray, and urine tests.  My only regret is that I have to wear this red bracelet that I can't swim with.  I guess it will be okay since we are supposed to get a lot of rain this weekend.    Nothing is going to ruin the wonderful feeling I have though.   I met Sandy and Gwynn, the girls that have surgery one day before me and that was great.  Good luck you two!!  And also to the other 'girls' at the office yesterday. I wish I were better with names.  
I took my hubby and youngest daughter with me yesterday.  My daughter was very worried and being there and hearing for herself all about the surgery and recovery she is feeling better and actually said she was excited for me.  What a break through.  Well, I hope this weekend goes quickly.  Later--Linda