daytonadan1983
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Nov 21, 2007
- Messages
- 759
I wish I could take credit for that tagline, but I'm going let the tagline take it's credit. .
One year into wearing an LVAD, I learned that I had no official pulse, so I said "no pulse, no problem" to my coordinator, who replied "they have Tshirts for that"
Wait a second, We have MERCHANDISE?
That and the online support groups have helped made the last six months a way to a new life.
Other moments:
1) In addition to having no pulse, I have no readable blood pressure. There's a driveline coming out of an opening wound in my stomach and I'm literally on battery operated life support.
Why is it liberating? Because with all the above, why should I even give the slightest **** about Cracker Barrel's logo and the such?
2) Those batteries start beeping when they get low, which is actually a badge of honor among LVAD wearers. I keep an emergency kit of batteries, dressing and even spare parts with me at all times
3) I should have been a medical writer...I LOVE telling the success stories of other wearers (one bowled at 209 three weeks after his procedure.) and doing the education bit. One word of advice -- don't bring up Greys Anatomy -- We as a community HATE that LVAD storyline.
4)The SID/writing life? My therapist had me write a couple of lists about my career and travels and it made me realize how damn blessed I am. I'm good. Went to a volleyball match and HOF dinner..football games out of the question for now. Had a moment of zen realizing that I would have spent all day in the 305 for a 45-3 loss. I Danny Glovered and realized "I'm getting too old for that $hit." Still do a little blogging and track down Utah football scores for my Bishop. It's an unofficial calling.
5)I walk my daughter down the aisle 10/18 in Chicago. My express and Wrigley visits only if I feel like it.
Hope everyone is doing well. Docs say I have 10 years if I do everything right, but it feels great these moments you're at peace .
One year into wearing an LVAD, I learned that I had no official pulse, so I said "no pulse, no problem" to my coordinator, who replied "they have Tshirts for that"
Wait a second, We have MERCHANDISE?
That and the online support groups have helped made the last six months a way to a new life.
Other moments:
1) In addition to having no pulse, I have no readable blood pressure. There's a driveline coming out of an opening wound in my stomach and I'm literally on battery operated life support.
Why is it liberating? Because with all the above, why should I even give the slightest **** about Cracker Barrel's logo and the such?
2) Those batteries start beeping when they get low, which is actually a badge of honor among LVAD wearers. I keep an emergency kit of batteries, dressing and even spare parts with me at all times
3) I should have been a medical writer...I LOVE telling the success stories of other wearers (one bowled at 209 three weeks after his procedure.) and doing the education bit. One word of advice -- don't bring up Greys Anatomy -- We as a community HATE that LVAD storyline.
4)The SID/writing life? My therapist had me write a couple of lists about my career and travels and it made me realize how damn blessed I am. I'm good. Went to a volleyball match and HOF dinner..football games out of the question for now. Had a moment of zen realizing that I would have spent all day in the 305 for a 45-3 loss. I Danny Glovered and realized "I'm getting too old for that $hit." Still do a little blogging and track down Utah football scores for my Bishop. It's an unofficial calling.
5)I walk my daughter down the aisle 10/18 in Chicago. My express and Wrigley visits only if I feel like it.
Hope everyone is doing well. Docs say I have 10 years if I do everything right, but it feels great these moments you're at peace .
