Swimming Against The Current

Yesterday I got all my staples out and Dr. Pilitsis said everything looks good.  I couldn't have asked for a better surgeon.  She is the kindest doctor I have ever met and she has helped me so much.  I am actually upset I wont be going back to NY to see her because I feel like she's more of a friend than a doctor.  Wednesday, I am seeing Dr. Novak to get "turned on" and programmed.  I am excited to see how it goes with both sides this time.  I cant wait to open my hands!! I hope everyone has a very safe and happy New Year!!

Last wednesday, my parents and I got in the car and started our trip to New York around 3am.  It took just about 3 hours to get there so we arrived by 6:00.  My pre-op appointment wasn't until 7 (arrival time 6:45) and the doors to the building didnt open until 9:00 (didnt really make any sense).  Anyway, I ended up behind a doctor who could get in so we managed to get into the building.  We went to Dunkin Donuts and got some breakfast and wasted time until I could check in.  By 7:00, I was heading in for pre-op and didnt really know what to expect because they said it could take 2 hours but last time it took less than an hour.  They did all my vitals, asked about my medical/surgical history and sent me to the lab for blood work.  It all took about a 1/2 hour and then I didn't have my appointment with Dr. Pilitsis (the surgeon) until 9:15. We wasted some more time then went to see her.  She explained what was involved in the surgery, about how long it would take and what she wa

So the time has come.  I never really thought it would but its starting to hit me that its real.  Tomorrow morning we are leaving at 3am to head to NY.  I have to be there are 6:45am for pre-op and Thursday for surgery.  I am so nervous.  The thing is though, I am more upset and nervous about leaving Hailey.  I know in my heart she will be absolutely fine, she will be in GREAT hands and she loves her grammy so much, I know she will have a wonderful time.  I am more worried about me missing her on Christmas morning and seeing that beautiful face as she walks out and sees all her presents.  Not that she knows its Christmas or has any idea what presents really are but I was looking forward to it. Anyway, I'm sure everything will be fine.  The plan is to do both sides and both battery packs all at the same time and as long as I am feeling good and I am ok to leave, I will be coming home on Christmas eve.  I'll meet Ryan at my parents so I can see Hailey and we will bring her home

After a long battle with the insurance company, we have finally got things approved.  My dad fought for me to get put on a PPO plan instead of an HMO so I could be covered out of network.  Yesterday, he received a call telling him it all worked out and the surgery is all set.  I'm pretty anxious and didn't sleep much last night.  For some reason I never really thought it would happen.  Now its all real and as happy as I am, I am scared to death.  That feeling in my head after they drill that frame to me is sickening and thats all I can think of.  But... I know this is all going to work out and I cant wait to have my hands back.  I will hear more today, about a date and everything but I think its going to be either December 20th or 22nd.  I am hoping for the 20th!!  I'm not positive, but I think they will be doing both sides this time to help the dystonia on my right side too.  I'll update everyone again when I hear more!  Yay for good things happening, and 2012 is going