PATS Today

Today I had numerous tests and questionnaires. In the end (not the location of the tests) I passed all tests with flying colours! (And I didn't even study!)

It is real now. Two weeks to go.

In the meantime I have my new Barix Bible to read and quite a few papers. Oh yes, there is that Respirex Contraption that threatens to turn me inside out... Now I know what everyone on the Barix site is refering to with "remember your breathing..." (I thought this was common sense. Now I get it. Boy, do I ever...wheeze, gasp...)

David

Lessons from Myrtle Beach

Lessons I learned in Myrtle Beach

1. It doesn't have to be warm and sunny to have a good time.

2. I still can hit a golf ball - even straight sometimes. I look forward to trying to beat my father at golf this summer (although that is not very likely - he is good!).

3. Shopping for exercise clothing is no longer "threatening" knowing I am two weeks from surgery. In fact, it is necessary - even encouraging.

4. My family is remains very supportive of my decision.

5. I am ready for the surgery. Bring it on!

Interesting Perspective

Tomorrow we are headed to South Carolina to visit my parents. I just checked the weather and found it will be about 50 - 65 F the whole time we are to be there. I was actually relieved that I could still wear a sweater to "hide" my bulk. I was actually worried about how I would look in lighter clothing! Silly. It just reinforces my decision to have the surgery at Barix. I can't wait for April 7th when my great opportunity begins.

Next year? Bring on the warm weather...

David

Southwestern Ontario - Group?

Hello Everyone:
The passing of our "Barix Buddy" Sheila has emphasized to me the need to support one another. Rusty (Sheila) was one who was always quick to offer support on-line. The response by everyone has been one of shock and grief.

While the on-line support that we all have is truly incredible it is important that we make contact in person from time to time. I am so glad I met so many - including Sheila - in London in January.

I live in Stratford, Ontario - sort of between Kitchener and London and about a half hour west of the 401. I have not thought out any grand plans at this point, but I am wondering if there are some people who want to get together - those who are waiting for surgery and those who are graduates. If there are a few, I offer my home (not in a cellar, by the way); if there are many I can arrange to rent the library at my school a block away, or a room at our church. I am posting this in both the before and after surgery conferences.

You can respond by reply or send me a private message. Once I hear from people I will select a date. If you have ideas of what we might do or discuss, I am open to that. The main thing is the personal support we can offer one another.

Cellar Dweller (David MacLennan)