Both Arms
Well, the CT of my little abdominal aortic aneurysm has ratcheted up the complication level. It appears there are also aneurysms on the iliac arteries. Some deal. And right now, they’re also trying to determine if it’s infected because that’s another level again if it is. The first batch of bloodwork yesterday, drawn from both arms, was negative. So, that’s good. One blood culture left and we’re just waiting to see what it grows, if anything. Oh, and if it’s not infected what they saw on the CT may indicate it’s getting ready to rupture. See what I mean about complications?
At this point it, as to the question of surgery, it’s all about risk analysis. Stents versus going in through the belly. The former is way easier on my body initially, but it will have to be monitored continuously for leaks and the like. Plus, if something goes wrong as they put in all those stents, they’ll still have to open me up. The big surgery has an entirely different set of risks, obstructed bowels, stroke, heart attack, and that sort of stuff. In the end, I’ll make my decision, and put my faith in the lord and my trust in the hands of a good surgeon and we’ll see how it works out.
In a sense I’m lucky. My major surgery waited to come late in my life. I’m relaxed, well fed, and relatively content. Generally, speaking I’m healthy. I’ve never smoked and I’m at my playing weight. I have a strong support network, lots of people who love me, and a warm place to stay while I recuperate. I feel good about weathering this little storm. I’m planning my recovery and trying to figure out when I’ll be back in the game, Meanwhile, I’m gathering prayers and girding my loins for the battle ahead.
John W. Wilson is the author of The Long Goodbye: A Caregiver's Tale