ANA Discussion Forum
AN Community => AN Community => Topic started by: suboo73 on March 11, 2009, 03:55:06 am
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Here is a brief note from JB's friend Aimee. Sounds like JB is doing well!
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JB gave me your email address so I could pass on news about her AN surgery. I've literally just heard that it went really well - they got all the tumour out and the facial nerve should be fine. She's still in Recovery right now; I won't be able to see her until she's in the High Dependency Unit in a couple of hours, but I'll keep you posted on how she's going.
What a relief!!
Cheerio,
Aime
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Thank you Aime! Great news!
Sue (aka Suboo)
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More news from Aimee...
JB is in the High Dependency Unit (don't you love that fancy name!) and having the 'first three days don't count' syndrome - swelling, nausea, dizziness, eating ice chips, and not really with it just yet. BUT - Aimee also said that the surgeons are very happy with the results and no facial paralysis!
Aimee is a great friend to be there with JB - THANK YOU Aimee!
All our thoughts and prayers out to you, JB!
Sincerely,
Sue
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Wonderful news! I've been pacing the site and just found the new thread. Give her my best wishes for being up and around in no time.
Nancy
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So great to hear - thank Aimee for quick and informative updates. Way to go JB!!
K ;D
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Great to hear she's through the surgery! Thanks for passing on Aimee's updates, Sue! Will be watching for further news later.
Cindy
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Thanks Aimee for the update. Thanks Sue for passing it on. Thanks Internet for making it possible. :)
Atta girl JB. Won't be long now.
Steve
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Send pics!
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Fabulous news. Keep us posted
JO
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Thanks Aime - that is good news to hear! I hope we'll hear even more soon!
Tell her I said "good on ya'!".
Lori
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Yay JB! Thanks for the updates Aimee. Please tell JB "good on ya" from me too.
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Thanks to Aimee and Sue for the updates.
I'm so pleased to learn the effervescent JB came through the surgery O.K. and seems to be doing well, with no facial nerve involvement. I'm sure she'll be out of the 'High Dependency Unit' quickly as that lady doesn't seem to be the high dependency type. :)
Jim
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Yea! Great news! Keep the updates coming! Thanks for doing the updates for us Sue (and Aimee).
Regards,
Brian
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Thanks so much for the note. Congratulations JB! You are strong and doing great! I am so happy to hear you are doing so well! You are in my thoughts this week! Wishing you wellness, Karen
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I have not had any recent updates for JB. I am hoping 'no news is good news' applys.
JB - Here's my thoughts and prayers for your speedy recovery.
We are all thinking of you.
Sue
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JB: Glad to hear all is well from Aimee. You are going to feel quite fatigued,
so take it easy. Take 'little' walks, & nap when your body tells you to.
It took me a couple of months before I could go back to work, but we're
all different, sounds like you may be 'up & at 'em' sooner than me !
Continued healing my friend, keep a peaceful heart.
Always good thoughts, Nancy
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JB,
Congrats on getting through this. So happy to hear things went well.
M
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From one to JB to another - best wishes for a speedy recovery Joe! ;D
Many thanks to Sue and Aimee for the updates; keep 'em coming.
Jan
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Hi Aimee. I just wanted to write a quick note and tell you i am thinking of you and JB.
I admit - i am alittle nervous since i haven't heard any recent updates regarding her progress.... I apologize - i am a mom and i have to worry!
Here is what Aimee wrote to me this morning....good news all around!
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Hi Sue
I'm so sorry for the belated response, I've been conscious of my silence and hoping that it wasn't stressing you out! The truth is that I've been schlepping around Melbourne, staying with various friends, and there seemed to be no internet access in the hospital, so I just couldn't get online easily. It's been a mad week:I only flew in from London last Monday night, JB's final pre-op appointments started at 9am the next morning, and she was in for surgery at 6am the morning after that, so I got off the plane and pretty much lived at the hospital after that! I thought it would be easier to get to my email, but the logistics were pretty tricky all round.
However, you'll be glad to learn that JB is still doing very well and was discharged this morning. It was a bit touch-and-go there, we weren't sure the physio was going to let her go because she (physio) was not entirely happy about JB's balance and mobility, but then the all clear was given and JB left the Neurosurgery ward for freedom in the outside world! She is now recuperating with lovely friends - an old college buddy and her husband - in Melbourne; she'll have her staples out on Friday and then has to see one of her consultants 2-3 weeks after that.
I hope this puts your mind - and the minds of all on the thread - at ease. JB doesn't have internet access right now (her hosts have just moved in to their new house), and I'm guessing that looking at a screen might be a bit iffy while she still feels some nausea, but I'll pass on anything important. She is being taken care of and everything is on track. Plus it's her birthday on Thursday, so another reason to fuss over her!
Apols again for the silence, thank you for your concern and care!
Aimee
P.S. The 'first three days don't count' thing was great for JB - and the rest of us - to remember. I was pretty shocked by how her condition for the first little while, but she has sparked up amazingly since then. It was good to try to remember that the improvement would actually happen after the initial days had passed... Sure enough, that's just what happened.
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THANKS FOR THE WONDERFUL NEWS, AIMEE! OUR BEST TO JB!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JB!
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I, for one, was stressed out, so you should have heard the gasp when I saw the JoeBloggs update.
Thank you for the great news!
Happy Birthday, JB!
Nancy
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I too was beginning to wonder about our JB down under. I'm glad to hear she is out of the hospital and recuperating with friends. Thanks for the update.
Happy Birthday JB!
Steve
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Yep, great to hear that JB is out of the hospital and the recovery has begun!
Cindy
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I, too, was wondering and glad to hear the good news! Keep resting JB and listen to your body!! Happy Birthday on Thursday!!
K
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Grats to JB's continued recovery and escape from the hospital! Here's to continued healing and a super recovery at home <cheers>.
Ernie
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Sue and Aimee
Thanks for hte update on JB. I'm glad to hear she is out of hospital and doing well. Balance issues are a common thing and hopefully they will not give her too much trouble. Wishing her a speedy, uneventful recovery.
Sending healing vibes her way,
Wendy
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So glad to hear things are progressing as they should ! !
JB: remember to REST - REST - REST ! ! Just walking a little each day , taking naps & eating are your duties for the next 2 weeks, then you can start cooking, etc, etc.,
(If you get headaches post op, take the pain medicine/Tylenol Extra Strength at the 1st sign of it starting. Mine lasted at least 2 weeks round the clock & then some !, then slowly lessened up).
Continued healing my friend, Always good thoughts, Nancy
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Jo/Aimee ~
Thanks for the update! Like everyone else, I'm so pleased to learn that our Aussie friend is out of hospital and recuperating nicely. Her surgery experience sounds eerily familiar; a PT nurse being skeptical about my ability to navigate without risk but an eventual release - and freedom! I immediately headed to a nearby restaurant (my wife drove) and devoured a stack of delicious pancakes as my reward for being released just 120 hours (5 days) after my AN removal surgery, which was quite successful, just as Jo's seems to be. I enjoyed a relatively speedy and complete recovery and I trust that Jo will have an identical or even better recovery experience. :)
Sue: thanks so much for being the messenger.
Jim
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Excellent news, I'm so glad for an update! Get lots of rest JB, and best wishes as you recover.
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Great news! Thanks for the update! I somehow missed this and was a little worried.
A couple of belated birthday presents for JB... ;D You'll be back on a board in no time.
Guethary, France...note the lone standup paddlesurfer
http://www.standupzone.com/SettingFull.JPG
Same place another magic day....for when she has internet access.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaCXjnGXp14
I dream of making a trip there someday after seeing this video and picture.....maybe a AN balance therapy trip...get all the AN paddleboarders there... ;D
Get well,
Bob
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I've been watching and waiting for this update too. So glad to hear she is doing better, and best wishes for a continued speedy recovery.
Happy Birthday JB!!
Scarlett
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Great news! Thanks Aimee via Sue!
I'll bet JB will perk up much more since she's out of the hospital and will do just fine! Tell her to have a happy birthday and to enjoy as much cake as she wants - she deserves it!!
Lori
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Hola my beloveds!
I am back! It is 8 days since my surgery. I feel fantastic considering. I have been looked after here in Melbourne by my amazing friends Sarah and Alastair and they have just been fabulous - as was my lovely friend Aimee who has been keeping you updated! The good news is the surgery was pretty quick, 6 hours, my facial nerve is perfect, my face is just as it was when I went in (I definitely won't say perfect!) - but even more so... the numbness I had for months before surgery has gone, I have feeling back on my eye, it's just amazing. I couldn't have hoped for the operation to have gone any better than it did... textbook! My balance is interesting - I haven't fallen yet and don't intend on it and I'm walking by myself. I still need a little help in the shower and Sarah is coping with that without being too embarrassed! Other than that I'm rocking it! Haven't tried knitting just yet, and definitely haven't tried paddleboarding, but I'll get there! Hospital was an experience - the nursing staff were amazing, doctors amazing, kleptomaniac room mate not so fun - long story!
It's been my birthday today so I've had all sorts of visitors and we had cake and booze-free fun! Pretty tired now though so think I'll potter off to bed - my staples come out tomorrow morning bright and early so I don't want to look to dazed and confused tomorrow or they might re-admit me! Will post some pics of my miraculous (although not Ernie-like!) recovery soon!
xxxx
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yaaaay! ;D
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Wow JB, sounds like you're doing great! I still have my "off" times when I'm not feeling like myself. Happy Birthday and continued rapid healing!
Ernie
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This is great! I hope your recovery continues as smoothly.
Neal
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JB~
GREAT to hear from YOU! Aimee did an awesome job of keeping us updated, but there is just something about that 1st post from the "postie"!! Sounds like you are well on your way to an incredible recovery. So glad that your facial nerve is working and that you don't have any eye issues. Remember to rest and that if you do have a bad day every once in a while, it is OK!! Listen to your body!
K ;D
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Postie JB. Has a nice ring to it. Welcome back. Excellent results on the facial nerve, glad to hear that. Take the next few weeks gently, give yourself a chance to recover. There will be time for paddleboarding later. You made it!
Steve
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Nice to heard from ya JB! Continued well wishes upon your recovery and hope the merry-go-round slows down a bit for ya soon--it will, just be a bit patient. If you try a bit of baby shampoo in the shower you can keep your eyes open and that helps a little. We're thinking of ya!
Hugs,
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate-smiley-12.gif)
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Hey, JB, you postie! Great to hear from you, and you do sound great! Keep up the good recovery. Yes, do rest up a bit for now, but we'll be looking for your new paddling pictures before too long :D
Cindy
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Yay JB, well done! I'm glad to hear things went well and I'm interested to know more about the kleptomaniac room mate, ha ha. Congrats on your "postie" status, I'm anxious to be there myself.
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Yea! Welcome back and welcome to Postieland! It's a great place to be! You sound like you far ahead of par for the course.. Continued healing!
Regards,
Brian
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JB ~
Welcome back! We've missed your sassy attitude. I knew you'd do well with your surgery and you exceeded my expectations, young lady. Well done! Now, get some rest. :)
Jim
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JB!! Welcome to postie-land. You sound great and I'm so happy it turned out well for you. Now all you have to do is take it easy and recover. And do remember to tell us the roommate story.
Best,
Marci
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Glad to have you join the ranks as a postie! It sounds like you came through with flying colors. Hope you continue to bounce back. Your attitude is terrific! I had a birthday during my recovery, too. I thought I would be depressed at my advanced age, but I was so grateful for all my blessings that I forgot to feel sorry for myself. That's how a brain tumor rearranges your priorities. :D
Priscilla
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JB -
nice to have you back! Remember everyone recovers at their own pace; no competitions here.
That said, it sounds like you're doing great :)
It was very nice of Aimee to keep us updated; you know how we worry.
JB 2
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Great news JB...glad to hear it went so well. Take your time getting back on a board, the water isn't going anywhere. You should join the seabreeze forum down there in Oz or standupzone. Lots of great pics, vids and stories to follow to keep you entertained. Lots of how-to as well for when you do get back on the water....wait until you catch your 1st wave...then the hook will really be set.
Glad to have you back and hear you're doing so well.
Bob
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Thanks for all the love everyone, I feel it even from here! Still going well, staples out today... weird experience! Didn't hurt, just kind of weird! Didn't need the stitches removed from my tummy - they were dissolvable stitches - ta da! I need to go back to the hospital on Monday just for them to have a last look at the head to make sure all is well... then... well... then I can wash my hair! Thank God!
Stoneaxe - I think I will take my time... might try paddling on my knees first! I'm pretty dodgy walking so I think paddling would be a whole 'nother ball game right now! I'm a member of stand up paddlers forum (http://standuppaddlers.ning.com/group/suptasmania ) down here, but have had a wee look at stand up zone and seabreeze.
MsMaggie - I had the best birthday ever, I was so grateful and I got about a million presents more than usual!!! How funny! Nothing like a brain tumour to get people spending eh?! I'm so lucky and fortunate.
I'm going to attach some pics (apologies for the giganticness of them) - I'm sure you can guess which ones are which - 6am at the hospital morning of the op with my friend Aimee (she looks a lot more frightened than I do! I look super happy!), 4 days afterwards (my head isn't as fat and swollen as it was to start with.. didn't put that photo up - didn't want to scare anyone!!! Having said that, please excuse the crazy hair!) and yesterday at my party with my giant cake Aimee had delivered (and yes, it tasted as amazing as it looked!). I truly am blessed, I'm really really fortunate to be following the road to recovery that I am, having said that, I like to think no matter what path I am following I'd be kicking some serious butt along the way!!
Right... klepto room mate. This is a good story. So I come out of the high dependency unit (which I think is probably a fancy name for recovery or ICU or something) the day after my surgery and I'm in the normal ward with one room mate, Rosa. Lovely lady, about 55 with a penchant for turning her tv on full blast at 11.30pm. The day after this I think one of the nurses asked if I wanted to have a shower... so I gave it a go (not realising actually, this being the first time I got out of bed, I was not going to be feeling great!) and was promptly quite ill in the bathroom. So I got back in bed, sans shower unfortunately but feeling a bit better. My friend Aimee came in to see me about 11am and I said can you please grab my dressing gown I left it in the bathroom when I was ill. So she has a look... no dressing gown. Mmm. I said well, the nurses probably just gathered up all the towels and everything I left there thinking it's all white and belongs to the hospital and stuck it in the wash. So Aimee's going about looking for it and no one knows where it is. So then she walks back in, and whispers to me, "does it have a hood?", yes it does I say, at which point, there's little Rosa toddling off past the front of my bed to the bathroom in my gown!!!! I sprang up and just pointed with my jaw on the floor! When she came back Aimee promptly stole my gown back to which Rosa was very apologetic saying she hadn't realised it was mine. Right... so we're having lunch and a cup of tea and I say, you know what that's so weird actually because yesterday, even though I was practically asleep all day and out of it, I'm sure there was a wall clock in here and this morning there wasn't. So Aimee says Oh my God, yesterday Rosa was having a conversation with a nurse about the clock and how nice it was (it was an ordinary, plain, boring, hospital wall clock) and asking where she could get one! So now we've established that she's stolen the robe and the clock. Then... she asks us if I have a spare knife from my lunch or a nail file - so I say no sorry. Next thing we know after dinner, once she does have a knife, she's unscrewing things from the wall, she has shoved three boxes of surgical glove in her bag and has nabbed a massive industrial sized bottle of hand sanitizer from the top of the cupboard! What a trooper!
On Saturday my friend came to visit with her little 3 month baby and the Lovely Rosa asked if she could hold him to which my friend said, umm, I guess so (I'd already declined the holding offer as I could barely hold myself up straight, let alone a baby!). At that point Aimee said you know what Rosa, I don't know that that's such a great idea, you know, you're in here having tests on your brain blah blah blah... so luckily she got out of it. Who knows, maybe the baby would have ended up in her bags too! Poor love, I think she was on a good cocktail of drugs including anti-psychotics so it's not her fault... having said that I still slept with one eye opened the whole time she was next to me!
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/IMGP0635.jpg)
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/IMGP0636.jpg)
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/IMGP0642.jpg)
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Hi JB! So HAPPY to see your posts again, welcome back!
All that worry i had -for 'naught' as they say, you look fantastic!
It is great to see your pic with Aimee. Please give her my best and thanks, again, for sending us updates when you could not.
I love the klepto story -- OMGosh what a roommate!
Please take it easy and spend time with Aimee while she is visiting. It must be very special for you to have such great friends nearby.
All my best! Please keep in touch.
Sincerely,
Sue
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JB! You look great in those pictures! I bet you don't miss the huge dressing on your head, I know I don't! Talk about uncomfortably tight! Mine had slid down and was across the top of my eyelid.
I love the roommate story! I bet you are right, that meds had something to do with it, but still, they should keep those people isolated! :) Good thing they don't allow valuables in the hospital, at least here they don't.
I can completely relate to not wanting to hold a baby. If I were sitting I'd be ok, but I'm still very light headed and wobbly while moving around.
Keep those updates and stories coming!
Ernie
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Great pics, JB! Wow, you looked really, really good in the hospital! Tough having a roommate while in the hospital, but especially one like that! Does make a good story for you to tell for years to come, though :D
So glad you're doing so well - yes, the wobbles will get better!
Cindy
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JB~
I LOVED the roomie story and you are a GREAT storyteller! The 1 time I had a roomie was after my 7/12 and I only WISH she would have been a klepto!! At least I only was there one night!!
I had surgery right before Christmas - I guess it was good in that I got a LOT of presents that year, but I was so out of it that I don't really remember it. You would think I had double vision because many of the things, I received twice! I am VERY (even more so now) careful about asking for different things from different people so I won't get two but I guess Dave heard what I had asked my mom or his mom for - he went & bought them too! Crazy! ;D
K
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Wow you look great!!! and what an attitude ;) Love it girl :-*
All the best in the next few months and here's to a full recovery.
Anne Marie
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JB,
Reading all the posts. Congratulations on a successful surgery. What a relief to be done and over with and BTW you are the most beautiful post op AN pic I've ever seen. Love that smile :)
Pace yourself, listen to your body....rest frequently.....naps.......ZZZZzzzzzzz........your body will need time to rejuvenate.
But I gather you are younger than most here and that says a lot on speed of recovery, wouldn't you think?
Maureen
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Looking good JB. Very funny story on the roomie.
The internet makes this such a small world JB. I was one of Sue Sheards early members. In fact it was a discussion with Sue that finally prompted me to post here on the ANA forum
http://standuppaddlers.ning.com/profile/BobBabcock (http://standuppaddlers.ning.com/profile/BobBabcock)
http://standuppaddlers.ning.com/profiles/blogs/dealer-alert-weird-newby (http://standuppaddlers.ning.com/profiles/blogs/dealer-alert-weird-newby)
The forums are a great place for learning and sharing info and the excitement. Lots of great videos and pictures. Another great spot is my brothers online mag http://www.kenalu.com/ (http://www.kenalu.com/) and my friend Evan's http://www.standuppaddlesurf.net/ (http://www.standuppaddlesurf.net/) if you prefer hardcopy a great photo mag is http://www.standupjournal.com/ (http://www.standupjournal.com/) all good stuff to look at while you recuperate.
take care
Bob
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JB you look great, and you're right, Aimee looks somewhat frightened while you look like you've won the lottery. And the roommate story is a keeper. Rest well.
Marci
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JB -
You look awesome! Even in the picture with the wild hair and the bandage! ;D
I loved the room mate story! Always good to have a little comic relief while in the hospital! I wonder how she'll get the hospital bed out the door when it's time to go home!
Lori
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Which one is the crazy hair picture? ;D
You look unnaturally happy to be having surgery in the pre-op picture, and remarkably well recovered in the post-op birthday picture. You did have surgery, didn't you?
Take care and take it easy.
Steve
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Thanks for all the love everyone - have had a minor setback - last night my eye stopped closing by itself - bummer! Ah well. Had to go to the hospital today anyway to get my wound checked so mentioned it to the nurse and then had all the neuro's all over me testing this that and the other. Appears only to be the eye and so I've been given some steroids to calm down swelling around the nerve and some tummy medicine (not sure why?! maybe the steroids make your tummy sore?) and some eye drops and I have to tape my eye closed at night. Whoop whoop! Had a feeling the miraculous recovery would have to come off the rails somewhere. Sure it will be temporary... cross fingers!
JB
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JB, sorry to hear about the eye, hopefully its just a temporary thing and the steroids can get it back on track. Thanks for keeping us posted, i like reading your updates and seeing pictures, you look great for such a recent surgery!
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JB - I had one night of facial weakness several days after surgery. It scared me to death! I noticed a numbness as I got up to use the bathroom, so turned to the mirror and smiled. :o I was freaked out!
For me, it only lasted that one night. I got up the next morning and the numbness was gone. I attributed it to swelling and maybe the way I slept on it that night. I will pray that your eye issues resolve quickly and you have no further complications.
Ernie
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Ernie,
That's a relief for those of us about to embark on this journey.
Thank you.
Nancy
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It seems that the weakness that happens a few days after surgery is temporary, so I'm sure after things calm down in there, you'll be back to normal.
Everyone seems to have at least some small hurdle at some point in their recovery, but you'll clear this one. Just remember to keep that eye well lubricated with drops until it starts closing again.
Lori
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Thanks everyone... is a tiny hurdle and in the grand scheme of things it's not an issue. I'm one day into the steroids now and my little alarm has just come on my computer to say I've got to take another one in 15 minutes.... I'm sure they'll start kicking in in the next couple of days and sort my swelling out... until then I think I might go and sit outside in the sun and be thankful for being here and the fact I can wash my hair today after almost two weeks.... WOOO HOOO HOO!!!
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Ahhhh, the first wash of the hair! Nothing like it! Enjoy!
Cindy
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You'll feel like a million bucks after that first hair washing! I was able to wash mine while still in the hospital and my husband was afraid I was going to use all the hot water for the whole hospital I was in there so long! Believe me though, my insurance more than paid for a little extra hot water! :D
Lori
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Sounds like you are doing great! Yes, just sitting outside and being able to appreciate nature is great. Hope your eye behaves.I'm sure it will calm down. Those steroids are strong stuff, they'll get the job done ;)
Maureen
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I don't know whether to laugh or cry when I read this post! :o
Jb, you seem to have an exceptional sense of humour! (Notice that I spelled humour correctly???) Keep that, it will get you through all of this, I'm sure.
What a great story about your clepto roommate. I remember once when my Dad was in the hospital. His roommate was quite elderly and not quite alert. He would go around and steal dentures. Once day when I visited Dad his roommate had 2 sets of dentures in his mouth. He had this terrible habit of drinking from his urinal container. Uh, the old guy did, not my Dad. ;D
Wonderful photos of you as well! You do look your usual bright, cherry self. Keep us posted, we're all continuing to send great wishes your way.
John
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Thanks John!
All going well here - went back to the hospital yesterday to have my eye check up - all good. I'm off the steroids and the eye will clear up itself in a little while. The eye doc said the surface of the eye looks good and all is well on that score too. Hurrah!
I'm loving the story about your Dad's roommate who drank his pee -- well I'm not loving it, I'm kind of repulsed by it, but it's definitely different! Would you like to hear a funny story about the roommate who replaced Rosa the Klepto? He was lovely, about 40, super nice guy, nothing obviously wrong with him (aka, as opposed to me with my giant bandage on my head). He would wander around in normal clothes just sort of sitting on his bed going downstairs to get a coffee occasionally etc. He was in the neuro ward for observation and some scans and such because he was having really bad headaches. He was very open about when he got the headaches etc so when one of the big wig neuro's came to visit him with all their offsiders I thought to myself (alas I had no choice but to hear the conversation on the other side of the curtain despite only having one ear) why is he skirting around the issue? He seemed really cagey when he was talking about when he got the headaches which puzzled me. Anyway... long story short, turns out the lovely roommate primarily got these headaches during you-know-what with his wife and wait for it...... the neuro was his wife's ex-boyfriend who still held a flame for her!!!! Hilarious! Too funny. Poor bugger! You wouldn't read about it! I miss the neuro ward and the all the characters!
I said goodbye to my lovely friend Aimee on Friday night when she flew back to the UK - I'm blessed not just in my recovery but also to have the support of amazing friends. Shall put a pic up when I sort it out.
Cheerio
JB
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JB, good news about the eye, I bet you're glad to be finished with the steroids!
I love your stories, I hope I have something interesting to tell when I get out!
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Super good news! I'm happy about it that's for sure! And happy to be off the steroids... didn't sleep very well on them.
I bet you'll have some good stories... just watch your dressing gown... someone might try and pinch it!
Just looked at your signature... we read the date differently than in the US, but I'm looking at the date and guessing your Translab is tomorrow seeing as it's the 31st March today! Holy! Good luck pet, you'll rock it!
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JB~
Your stories are the BEST - I LOVE that about the man in the Dr.! I will say I was a bit shocked at first, here in the US, a lot of hospitals are going to all private rooms, but when they do put you with a roomie - it is one of the same sex as you!!
K
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I hadn't actually thought about the whole male/female aspect of my room mate situation. I don't think they probably do that as a rule - by the time he was my roommate though I was day 4 post op and he'd been there one night already so I guess they knew he was really nice and I was not likely to be weird about it. They must have been short of beds I reckon though because it's probably not that usual to have different sexes in the same room. Having said that when I was overnight in the medical assessment unit in the UK that was a 6 or 8 bed room with about half and half. It's probably a trade off - free health care but you have to put up with boy germs!
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Thanks for the update JB!
Always interesting and entertaining to hear from you.
Keep the spunk!
Maureen :)
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I hadn't actually thought about the whole male/female aspect of my room mate situation. I don't think they probably do that as a rule - by the time he was my roommate though I was day 4 post op and he'd been there one night already so I guess they knew he was really nice and I was not likely to be weird about it. They must have been short of beds I reckon though because it's probably not that usual to have different sexes in the same room. Having said that when I was overnight in the medical assessment unit in the UK that was a 6 or 8 bed room with about half and half. It's probably a trade off - free health care but you have to put up with boy germs!
Wow! What great stories. You really should write them all down before you forget them so that you can write a book about your AN later! What a small world - loved the story about your roomie who was married to the Dr's ex girlfriend. Wouldn't that be quite the examination? If I were that guy, I'd be afraid of what types of examinations the Dr. ordered. "What's this procedure you ordered? A cas-tra-.....WHAT?"
Here in Canada we have the free health care system, too. Consider yourself lucky, however. While you may have to put up with "boy germs" from time to time, you don't have to put up with girls and the risk of getting "cooties"! :P
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Glad you're off the steroids, JB, and that your eye is going to be fine.
Yea, I was surprised about the male roomie, too. And what another interesting roomie he was - very good stories for you to recount years down the road!
Continue your good recovery!
Cindy
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Wait, I thought boys had cooties? ??? At least that's what we used to think in elementary school. Somehow they either got over them or we girls developed an immunity to them by high school! ;)
JB, I think you need to pay us all a visit - you sound like you'd be very fun and entertaining to have around! Or better yet, we should all come there!
Lori
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Glad to hear things are going well JB. I'm with Lori...we all need to come down under for a visit... ;)
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Yes you all do! It's lovely weather down here at the moment.. about 29 or 30 degrees which I think is about 85 or 90? Lovely. I'm hoping to do a States/Canada visit next year (it was going to happen around Sept this year but Schwandor the tumour got in the way of that little thought process!). So next year maybe I'll get to meet some of you! I lived in the US and Canada for a while almost 10 years ago so I have a few old friends to visit, probably road trip-like so you never know... stay tuned for the AN express!
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Oh! Come here, come here! New Hampshire, that is. We're hoping to get to NZ and Cook Islands next winter for a very extravagant vacation. I've never been further west than Galapagos or east than Hungary, so there's so much more to see. Dave's been to China and Japan, but he's keen on going down under, too.
I think you should do stand-up but at least keep a journal of your hilarious experiences.
Hope you're on the mend, Darlin'.
Nancy
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I wouldn't mind visiting Austrailia, but I don't know if I could get used to standing upside down ;D
Ernie
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Yeah it takes some getting used to Ernie... it's starting to affect me in a weird way... I'm dizzy all the time. Oh wait, I just had my balance nerve butchered... duh!
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JB~
If you're road tripping and going cross country, know that you always have a place to stop in rest at the TOP of Texas!! However, please don't be offended if I hide my dressing gowns!! ;D
K
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I can see it now.....the JB tour! ANer BBQ's to celebrate all across north america. If you get close to Boston JB let me know. A clambake on the beach for sure...I'll bring all 5 of my boards and we can have an AN standup outing.
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JB,
Were in Canada did you live?
Anne Marie
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I lived in Lloydminster in Saskatchewan for a few months, then I lived in Edmonton for a few months (if you know it I used to work in the Bee Bell Bakery off Whyte Ave), then I lived in Victoria on Vancouver Island for a few months. I was in Canada all up one year to the day (when my work visa ran out and I had to leave... so sad!). I had a boyfriend for a while there so I came back a few times to Calgary and Canmore to see him. I love Canada very much, can't wait to get back!
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I figured you might like some reading and watching material JB. Some new posts on the blog. When you get back on the water you need to work your way up to going out for a downwinder. SO much fun and such great exercise.
http://newenglandsup.wordpress.com/ (http://newenglandsup.wordpress.com/)
Hope everything is going well.
Bob
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Thanks for the link Bob - looks good I'll have a proper look tomorrow when I've got a bit more spare time! I bought a wetsuit on ebay yesterday so I'll be all ready for the cold water in Tassie when I get back there next week!
Donnalynn : How funny, I know lovely people that live in Sherwood Park! I bet you were at the Bee Bell when I was there - I used to work every day! I used to write "Happy Birthday" or "Bon Anniversaire" on the cakes! I hope you don't go on Saturday mornings... the line ups were legendary! There used to be no end of problems as the counter only went up to 100 so we'd have to work out who had the number 57 ticket first when there were over 100 people in the store! Nightmare!
I know Vermillion too! Ha ha how funny! I miss Canada... I promise to come back soon!
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Hi JB,
How cold does the water get down there. The reason I ask is if it gets truly cold you will want to use ear plugs in your good ear. makes it tough to hear others but help prevent surfers ear (exostosis). Some folks when exposed to repeated cold water/conditions in the ear have unusual bone growth in the ear canal that can sometimes require surgery to correct. I wear one all year except for summer and add my hood in winter. You just want to be extra cautious to protect that good ear.
I wish I had known earlier that you were going to Melbourne for your surgery. I would have suggested you hook up with an online friend of mine. he and a bunch of others do nighttime paddles down the Yarra River. Looks like a nice paddle.
http://www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=48010 (http://www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=48010)
Regards,
Bob
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Stoneaxe,
Thanks for that link. That looks like something I could handle - although I would probably have been one of the wet ones. ;D
Maybe this summer I can try that on the Willamette...
Best say hi to JB too, so as not to be hijacking. Hi, JB. :)
Steve
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Hi Stoneaxe... thanks for the tip I would have never thought about ear problems with the cold water. Defo want to protect the good ear. I don't think it gets super cold, only about 10-12 degrees C in winter, but defo too cold for boardshorts!
Bummer about the Melbourne link - Yarra would have been delightful! Maybe when I'm back for my next check-up in a month or so and a bit more balanced! I've got a plan when I get back to the UK I'll go paddling down the Cam in Cambridge (near where I live) to Granchester where I can have a few quiet beers at a pub there. I went paddling at St Kilda a couple of days before my op which was ok.. not as fun as Tassie though.. weather was a bit rubbish.
Hi Steve hope the hats coming along well! My scarf is nearly finished woo hoo!
Better pop an update on things while I'm here... about 3 1/2 weeks post op (Wednesday is 4 weeks), feeling good, eye pretty much back to regular so the steroids worked a treat. Off to the hospital tomorrow to meet with my ENT surgeon for a post-op follow up. Hopefully will be good! I'm meeting fellow forumite Lupy for coffee beforehand so I can show her my fab scar etc before her surgery in a couple of months. Whoop whoop! Hope to post some pics after! Flying home to Tassie on Wednesday, can't wait for that, will be good to catch up with the parents!
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JB,
I'm so confused. You're from the UK, but your parents live in Tasmania? And Lupy is from Melbourne or wherever you are in Australia? I missed that. Sorry.
Anyway, sounds like you're really rockin' the recovery. My son's in Edinburgh. Wish he could meet you. You sound like so much fun.
Anywho, tell Lupy Hi!
Nancy
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It's a strange story really... I am Australian, my parents are in Tasmania. I've been living overseas for 9 years, first in the States and Canada and the last 7 or so years in the UK. I was diagnosed in the UK and just had my surgery in Melbourne. Tres confusing! Lupy is in Melbourne and is having her surgery with the same surgeons as I had! Edinburgh is lovely, your son is in a good place! Is he in school there or working there? I will tell Lupy hi, we're going to have a coffee and I might even have a giant piece of cake... they have these ENORMOUS cakes at the Royal Melbourne Hospital in the cafe... I'll try and take a picture tomorrow!
x
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Oh, so fun! Yes, he's in school. I just posted pics of my kids on the Pictures of Friends thread, not a great one of him, but we were on an enchanting cruise on the sea lochs of South Argyll, converted fishing boat, brilliant!
Good luck tomorrow.
nANcy
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Nice Kilt! I once went up to a boy in a bar in Edmonton on St Patrick's day because he had a kilt on and a set of bagpipes and I was strangely attracted to him. I think it must be my Scottish heritage, I have an inbuilt gene that pulls me towards kilts! We went on a few dates, it didn't work out once I found out how much younger than me he was. We're still friends. Ah the memories!
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Ha ha ha! How funny!
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Oh I was just wondering today if you had any fellow "AN'er" with you there in Australia. I also didn't know Lupy was there. ('hi Lupy'). Enjoy your coffee together; have you met yet? Then when you head back, will you return to the UK (after visiting parents)? small world...
I went to Wales last summer. On our last night (stayed at airport at Heathrow) we took the tube to London and got to spend, oh, all of about 30 minutes there (had to get back on before it was closed). I loved it; hope I can spend more than 30 minutes there next time!
keri
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Hi Stoneaxe... thanks for the tip I would have never thought about ear problems with the cold water. Defo want to protect the good ear. I don't think it gets super cold, only about 10-12 degrees C in winter, but defo too cold for boardshorts!
Bummer about the Melbourne link - Yarra would have been delightful! Maybe when I'm back for my next check-up in a month or so and a bit more balanced! I've got a plan when I get back to the UK I'll go paddling down the Cam in Cambridge (near where I live) to Granchester where I can have a few quiet beers at a pub there. I went paddling at St Kilda a couple of days before my op which was ok.. not as fun as Tassie though.. weather was a bit rubbish.
Hi Steve hope the hats coming along well! My scarf is nearly finished woo hoo!
Better pop an update on things while I'm here... about 3 1/2 weeks post op (Wednesday is 4 weeks), feeling good, eye pretty much back to regular so the steroids worked a treat. Off to the hospital tomorrow to meet with my ENT surgeon for a post-op follow up. Hopefully will be good! I'm meeting fellow forumite Lupy for coffee beforehand so I can show her my fab scar etc before her surgery in a couple of months. Whoop whoop! Hope to post some pics after! Flying home to Tassie on Wednesday, can't wait for that, will be good to catch up with the parents!
JB (nice username!) - awesome recovery my fellow Aussie! Must have been your surgeons ;)
All the best with the move back to Tassie. I'll sometimes travel to Launie for a Hawks game so will definitely keep in touch.
Just checked into the ANA recently - didn't know you were a massive celebrity here! Love your work.
SC
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Keri: We hadn't met before but she's across the road at Melb. Uni so it's very handy to meet at the hospital! I will have to return to the UK - have some more things to learn over there and I could hardly accept 6 months paid sick leave and then not return! That would be tres rude!
Chambo my old buddy! Glad you like my username... took me a while to think of that one! I reckon it must be my surgeons and that's why I rocked the recovery!! Apparently they do good work... some random Melbourne boy once told me that! Good old Lonnie eh! I got stuck in a traffic jam the other day when they were playing... a traffic jam.. in Tassie! Unheard of practically! As for my celebrity status... not sure about that! I did wonder why there were so many photographers outside my house this morning! ha ha... mmm I don't think so!
Update-o-rama: Met up with Lupy this arvo before my appointment with the legend that is Briggsy the ENT surgeon. Lupy is fabulous, she has a great attitude and I can tell already she's going to absolutely rock her surgery! Get ready to send some support her way in June! We exchanged notes about the lumps in our heads and I gave her some hot tips on how rubbish the food is in hospital! She's good to go!!
Met with Briggsy the legend, has given me the all clear to go back to Tassie, checked out the face and the eye is back to regular, whoop whoop for that and I'm now signed off from him and I don't need to see him again. Bit of a sadness because he's a lovely man, I wouldn't mind having to see him again, but all is well!
Here's a couple of pics as promised... me and a giant piece of cake (if you're ever at the Royal Melbourne, check out the huge cakes, they're quite obscene) and Lupy and I a couple of happy little vegemites after our rendezvous!
Cheerio troops!
xx
JB
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/IMGP0651.jpg)
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/IMGP0652.jpg)
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I have to attest THAT CAKE WAS HUGE! Hahahahaha! Perhaps not my best photo ever but I was definately happy! I just have to say how wonderful JoeBloggs looked three weeks out! I am full of renewed hope! Well, you know, as much as one can be facing brain surgery! I can't recommend enough the experience of meeting up with other An'ers when facing surgery - it really is a great support - especially when they are as lovely as JB! Thanks again!
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Hi JB! Thanks for the pics, they are great!
So, if i understand correctly, you are returning to the UK.
Nice that it will soon be Spring there for you!
Please stay in touch, ok?
I hope to get to Europe next summer with my daughters, maybe we can visit if you are still there.
All my best!
Sue
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Thanks Lupy, it was great to meet up with you too! Nice to go through this whole adventure and be able to help someone on the other side of it... makes it all worthwhile!
Ya will be returning to the UK, I think the tulips, daffodils and bluebells will be popping up soon! I'll stay in Aus for a couple of months until my balance is sorted and I'm ready to work and then head back... should be summer by then.. woo hoo! I'll definitely stay in touch, hopefully we can meet up when you're there Sue!
Cheerio
JB
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JB,
You are an inspiration. Life on the other side.
nANcy
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JB and Lupy,
The pictures are FABULOUS!
And the cake looks pretty darn good to! :o
Scarlett
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Great pics, JB and Lupy! JB, you look fantastic - wouldn't know you'd had surgery! Lupy, you're so right about being able to meet a post-op ANer prior to having your own surgery. It was a HUGE help for me meeting Nancy, David and Mathilda in LA. No better way to give you a boost of confidence going in, and it also helps during those days of recovery...you know you can make it, because you've seen others that did!
Thanks girls...can't think of the Aussie term for girls...
Cindy
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JB, thanks for posting that pic! I think it's so important for newbies to see post-operative pictures that show fabulous outcomes! I remember my first thought when I first came to this forum...it was something like..."OMG - My face is going to look horrible and I'm going to have debilitating headaches for the rest of my life!
Of course, the nice people here in the forum quickly pointed out that those with great outcomes tend to move on with their life, while those with issues not yet resolved continue to need the support the forum offers.
Thanks again for the pic!
Ernie
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Ernie~
I guess I should take my picture down??
K
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Ernie~
I guess I should take my picture down??
Yikes! Did my post come off sounding like that? I hope not. :(
This forum is for support, both pre and post treatment. It is those who struggle with issues post-op that tend to remain, and RIGHTLY SO! (Guess that's the part I left out?) The photos of people who do have issues are probably more important, at least to others with similar issues, than those who didn't have any post-operative complications. I was just trying to make a point that it's important for us to show that there are many who do well as a postie, with few if any complications.
I guess I should have re-read what I typed and put more thought into it before I hit the SEND button. I apologize if I offended you or anyone else who is dealing with post treatment issues. You guys are awesome and always in my prayers.
Ernie
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No worries, Ernie ;)
I'm due to post some poor outcome surgery pictures myself! It will show my improvement since surgery and more improvement to come.
I'm sure Kaybo is just kiddn. She's a trooper and has a great sense of humor.
I used to read about cases like mine on the internet prior to my surgery, and didn't even think that I would be one of them.
Ah ignorance is bliss......
I just can't seem to get myself to get the dang digital camera, give it to someone to take pics.
Procrastination....
Will keep you posted.
Maureen
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I always worry about hurting someones feelings. It's hard to tell if someone is joking or being serious, unless they use the smiley faces, or the angry face :).
Gotta update my update now. Parents are coming to town today for a week-long visit, so I may be a bit scarce.
Ernie
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Ernie~
I was just kidding, but I have thought before that maybe I don't need to be here or to show pictures - I don't want to scare anyone! BUT, I stick around because I hope to show others that there is life after AN surgery - NO MATTER WHAT THE OUTCOME!! I don't consider myself one of the ones that sticks around for support & encouragement - I am totally OK with who I am and what I look like (even if that is frightening to others - LOL!) - I HOPE that I am helping others in some small way. You have to remember that I went for 12 years without ANY support from anyone else who had and Acoustic Neuroma. I was fortunate to have a very strong FAITH and a WONDERFUL hubby and support system - not to mention that I think I had a pretty good attitude! ;) However, I don't want to be here if I am just going to "scare" people!
K
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K,
The last thing your posts do is scare people. You are an inspiration to so many! The reality of the situation is that not everyone is going to have a perfect outcome. You, and many others here on the forum, have such a positive outlook despite being dealt a really lousy hand. For that, I applaud you!
Now, I'm looking at the topic line, and reading these replies, and thinking...I'm going to get blamed for this being off-topic (again).
Phyl, I know. Take it to PM's.
Ernie
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Kay,
Lots of things about you scare me - but definitely NOT your beautiful face! ;D
And you do need to be here because you've given so much encouragement and support to so many people who have really needed it - including me.
JB - you look absolutely awesome! And that cake looks pretty darn good too! And all this talk of world travel is reminding me that I need to get out more!!!
Lori
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K, you better stick around, you hear me!? You KNOW I will hunt you down otherwise. Nuff said! :-* :-* :-*
Hey Ernie,
Ok, smacks to you! ;)
Many here that have had surgery stick around.... even those with good/great outcomes. I know of many that I have met personally/face-to-face that continue to contribute here... based on the thought process of "there were so many there for me in my time of need; its time for me to give back as well". So, everyone here, regardless of treatment option or outcomes.... has their own personal reasons for sticking around (myself included.). So, with that said... yes, take it to PM's... let's apologize to JB for the hijack.... and btw, BoSox is going to kick Tampa today! :)
Back on track folks....
Phyl
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Kaybo is beautiful I've always thought that from the first moment I got on this forum... and I always think one day if I have little people hopefully they'll be mini-me's and look like Kaybo's little curly people! Now that would be a blessing!
I'm going to Tassie this morning!!! Yipee!!!! Better go pack! Yikes!
P.S.: Cindy, Aussie term for girls is Sheila's. Depressing I know!
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Actually, Kaybo, I was just thinking how postively lovely your porfile photo looks and how great your smile looks! Don't you dare leave or not post pictures! I took such inspiration from you when I woke up with a limp face - I thought about you and how terrific your life is, and I immediately felt better.
And, BTW, JB - you look AMAZING!!
Heck, I think we all look pretty amazing - warts and all, as my great grandmother used to say...
Debbi, warts and all...
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Thanks guys for the sweet and reassuring words! I really have struggled with what I should say to "newbies" and if my story is too intense. JB - I hope that you are as blessed as we are by our sweet (most of the time) girlies!
K
*end of hijack!*
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I don't remember thinking it was too intense when I first got started here. I remember thinking, jeez Kaybo has had a massive amount to deal with and she's just got on with it and having a fabulous life (that's how it looks to me anyway!) what a legend. I thought, that's how I will be - no point sitting around feeling sorry for myself because I have (had!!!) a tumour - just bloody get on with it. Kaybo you're my hero! Lessons in how to live life right there. I will cross fingers for beautiful little people like yours for sure!
As for life here - got back to Tasmania this afternoon... blissful.. so quiet and tranquil! Aaaaah! Should be a good sleep tonight! Yay!
xx
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Jo ~
Congratulations on your excellent recovery aided, no doubt, by your intrepid attitude (and youth). You're an inspiration in your own way. I admire post-op AN patients that 'just get on with it'. I'm married to a lady that didn't have an AN but has endured several surgeries for spine and other problems and 'just gets on with it' every day. Another inspiration, albeit closer to home, for me. :)
Enjoy your beautiful, pristine Tasmania. A place I might like to visit, someday.
Jim
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JB,
your recovery is inspiring... fraid you will miss the daffs though as they've been out for a while and are now getting past their best (well round here they are anyway!). We are expecting a mixed/poor Easter weekend weather wise - what a shame I am off to Cyprus on Sat. for a week and will miss most of it ;D
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Kay...you don't scare people...you reassure them. Life is too short not to be smiling from your heart.
JB...must feel great to be home. Congrats on the swift recovery.
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Thanks all!
Jim, you're lucky to be married to a 'get on with it' type! She must be a strong fabulous woman!
Esperanza, no one likes a bragger! Enjoy Cyprus, hope it's warmer than home! Bummer I'm going to miss the Daffs, ah well... maybe there'll be a few tulips left when I get back!
And Stoneaxe, it's GREAT to be back here, very quiet. A bit colder than when I left over a month ago though!! Ah well! Might think about trying a bit of knee paddling this weekend...will see!
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JB, I forgot that you are headed into fall and winter down under there. Brrrr! I'm glad it is spring up here on the top half of the world. ;D
Also glad the whole Kay thing got squared away. She has a hat; you can't mess around with her. ;)
Steve
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Yep sure is... the only good thing about it is it means Ma and Pa will have to put the fire on... nothing like a real wood fire when you're a bit chilly!
Yes you're right... you can't mess with the Steve hat owners! Alas I don't have one so you can mess with me! I'm just about to finish my second hat and scarf combo but I'll be sending that off to another friend... one of these days I'll actually keep one and then I'll have a hat too! Woo hoo!
Right better be off... have an appointment with my GP doc today here in town to organise some physio... woo hoo! Should be fun!
Cheerio
JB
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JB, paddleboarding? so soon? That is so encouraging for me, I hope you get to do it and have a blast out there! I bet the daffs and tulips would be so beautiful. My cousin shears sheep in AU and I'm always jealous of such an adventure. I mean, the job is not nearly for me, but I love to see exciting country!
Kay, you were also the very first person that I talked to about my AN and it was immediately after my diagnosis. Having someone contact me immediately after putting myself out there was so comforting and finding you here made me feel instantly at home. Knowing your story helped me to know that I would be fine no matter the outcome of my treatment and your beautiful faith and attitude only fed (and continues to feed) mine. I know that no harm was meant in this thread, this forum wouldn't be the same without every one of its members. (((((hugs))))))
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Howdy funseekers,
Sorry I've not put an update up for a while... not a great deal to tell to be fair! Today is 6 weeks post op for me and I'm feeling better all the time. More energy, greater appetite, less balance problems. The balance is still a bit dodgy, particularly when I'm crossing the road (which isn't great!) but it's definitely getting better that's for sure.
I tried driving the other day which was fine (I was only going 60km/h) but then again we are in the country here so it wasn't exactly like driving around a bustling metropolis!
Following Nancy's lead I've decided to put up a few delightful photos of the old noggin for your viewing pleasure... warning scar photos below! Also is a pic of my latest hat and scarf combo which are now safely in the post to the UK.
Enjoy!
JB xx
Photo of my delightful staples (37 all up from memory) after my giant bandage got taken off. As you can see immediately post op hair was still growing right up to the scar... by 6 weeks post op a fair quantity around the scar has fallen out.
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/Moiniesscar.jpg)
Another noice photo of the staples
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/Staplesa-go-go.jpg)
My tummy scar which I think is quite substantial... did they remove an ovary while they were in there?? - did anyone else's nails grow like crazy when they were in hospital or just mine? Out of control! I think they put something in my drip to make them grow!!
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/HomePics011.jpg)
Day before I had my staples out, nifty job my friend Sarah did of my dressing!
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/IMGP0638.jpg)
The day my staples came out 10 days post op... as you can see it doesn't look too bad! It didn't hurt either!
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/IMGP0644.jpg)
My scar at 6 weeks post op... it looks really red in this photo but it must be my camera because it's not that red. You can see the missing hair around the scar... it may or may not come back.. who knows!?
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/IMGP0659.jpg)
My latest hat and scarf I just finished on Ma and Pa's deck in Tassie... sucks to be me!!!
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/IMGP0661_2.jpg)
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Very nice photos, JB.
Your scars all look good to me.
Congratulations on the wonderful recovery - and the new hat and scarf, too.
Keep up the good work - on both those fronts ;)
Jan
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JB~
Excellent photos!! Keep up the good work!!
K ;D
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Oh, you're so beautiful. I'm so proud of you and your progress. I was just about to do my two-week update. Thank you for your smile. It warms my heart. :-* :-* :-* :-*
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Scars, schmars, the important thing here is the knitting! Nice garter stitch and super bulky yarn weight. You must sew up the hat after knitting? And I like the colors in the scarf, that's a lot of yarn changing going on. Nice work. 8)
Steve
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Great update, JB - you look just great! Amazing how that incision heals so quickly, isn't it! And with your lovely hat and scarf, no one would have ANY idea of what you've been through so recently.
Thanks!
Cindy
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Great Photos and a wonderful commentary on your knitting skills!
Pretty scarf and hat, pretty hat, pretty face, and pretty long nails!
Keep up the fantastic progress :)
Maureen
P>S> Ah the wonder of youth.......
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Thanks JB
The photos are great you look wonderful. You are my inspiration for successful surgery in the future in either Sydney or Melbourne but thats not for a while yet. Your type of recovery is what I hope for and aspire to.
Keep on keeping on. Well done.
Kimbo.
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JB ~
I've thoroughly enjoyed reading about your steady progress in recovery - and the photo was delightful. You look good in a knit hat and scarf. Thanks. :)
Jim
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As Steve once commented on a show your scar thread -- "the tough ladies of the ANA Forum". Looking good, Jo. Glad to hear things are progressing so well.
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Jo you look fabulous! I love your scarf and hat, it looks so cozy and having the time to knit, I wish! Nicely done. ;D
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JB,
You said you teared in only one eye. But you don't have facial weakness. I thought those were related symptoms.
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Nancy, one can have some dry eye post op without going on to have facial weakness. I did for about 3 weeks with my surgery a year ago. I know a non forum person who did also. Just all kind of happenings with this surgery!
Cheryl R
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Hi Nancy - I did have that eye that didn't close for about 6 days which came on at 12 days post op. That's when I first noticed my eye not tearing (I think I watched a chick flick and was only crying from the non AN eye). It hasn't started up again yet but I assume it will eventually. It's not dry per se - it's wet enough to keep the eye covered (occaisionally I put drops in now when I've been outside for a while or whatever) but it just doesn't make big fat tears! Weird.
Thanks everyone for the lovely posts - I'm really feeling great. Just have to knock this balance on the head and I'll be right as rain.
Steve - I did have to sew the hat up... I'm not sure how to make a hat without sewing... well that's not true... I know how it's done - I just haven't tried it because it looks a bit scary... I'm still at the straight long piece of knitting stage - I don't do double ended needles or sock knitting or anything like that yet - that's all in the too hard basket!
And Anissa - I reckon if I wasn't sans children I'd not have any time to knit either! Ask me again in a few years (hopefully..cross fingers!!) if I've got time to knit!! Actually ask me again after I go back to work and I'm not lazing around at my Parents' house!
x
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Hi JB.
Just jumping in to say hi and let you know that I'm still following your posts with interest!
I think I watched a chick flick and was only crying from the non AN eye
Having to watch a chick flick would make me cry too :)
Ernie
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Hi JB,
Great pictures and nice hat!!! I can feel Steve turning blue with envy over that beautiful knitting work!!! Great up the great progress as the cool weather approaches! Here in New England, the daffodils are almost past, and the bushes and tulips are coming next. If it was not for this crushing fatigue, I would climb out under the boat this weekend and get something constructive done, but all in due time I hope!
Best,
Steve
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OK...enough with the knitting...I'm waiting for the 1st paddleboard pics.... ;)
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Howdy folks,
Been a while... had to head back to Melbourne to have a bit of a Neuro check up and a CT scan then ended up leaving my bloody laptop charger at my sisters so have been sans computer for a while! Good news is the check up went great - CT showed no bleeding or anything post surgery which is good news... I would have though I'd have known about it by now though if there was a problem!! I have to have an MRI in 6 weeks and then another Neuro consult then I'm free!!! Well at least for a year until I need another MRI! Whoop whoop!
Sadly for Stoneaxe I'm still knitting! I've attached a pic of some little sheep for my friend who's sheep got taken by a pack of nasty dogs the other day... not that some knitted sheep would replace them, but it's the thought that counts! But some good news too.... my friend here in Tassie, Bryan has leant me a paddleboard and paddle for a couple of months until I'm ready to head back to the UK!!! It arrived on Monday night and I went out the next day (yesterday) and didn't fall off!!! Woo hoo!!! My first paddle since the operation and I managed to stay on the whole hour or so. I was thrilled! The hardest part about it was trying to get the board back up the hill from the beach to the house! Mum and Dad have a perfect spot here for it - they can keep an eye on me from the balcony and the water in the bay isn't too deep. I saw a stingray underneath the board at one point which was pretty exciting - it was massive! No fish though. They're probably hiding. I went out today in some pretty windy weather and it was hard going. Sad to say I did fall off, but it was right at the shore when a wave got me. Not bad for someone who's just had their balance nerve cut! I'm pretty happy - I wasn't sure I was going to be able to do it, but I'm proof there's life and paddling after surgery! The plan is to try and go out every day for an hour or so unless the weather really is wretched and get the balance back. So far so good! Here's a little pic of me and the board about to go in - it was so windy I almost lost the board holding it up there waiting for Dad to take the picture, but managed to hold onto it... just! Will pop a movie up on facebook soon of me in action... stay tuned!
xxx
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/IMGP0670.jpg)
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb203/moinamac/IMGP0705.jpg)
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Hey, JB!!! Those are the cutest little sheep! You and Steve may need to set up shop together - you two are amazing. So great that you were able to get out on the board...and not fall off! Very impressed! Can't believe how very long that board is - how in the world do you carry that thing? Know Stoneaxe will be glad to see you're back on the water - as we all are!
Be careful out there, though,
Cindy
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I was just thinking of you this morning, wondering where's JB? Glad to have the cheery update. That board must be the wrong size for you, no? What a beautiful beach! Can we come visit Mom and Dad? ;D
Sorry for the poor taken sheep, but yours are a lovely tribute. Put out some kibble for the dogs, and perhaps they'll leave the sheep be!?
Keep us posted on your adventures.
Missed you there for a while.
Nancy
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Hey JB!
Great pics and awesome on the paddleboarding! That board must be like 12 feet long! I don't think I could hold it up against the wind :)
I wish you and Bob would stop posting such wonderful paddleboarding pics. It's gonna make me go out and try it myself!
Ernie
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It's massive isn't it??!! I think it's 11 foot 6, so not far off Ernie! I think you're definitely going to have to go out and try it - if I can get out there when it's practically winter, then you can too!! Nancy you can definitely come and visit! It's lovely here!!! As for carrying the board Cindy... with difficulty! Dad helps me we grab one end each and get down the hill with it then Mum tells him when I'm coming back in and he comes down to help me up with it. Before the op I carried one sort of half on my shoulder from the water to the car no probs - but not so much now, particularly having to haul it up a hill!
I'll put some more photos up soon and then Ernie can start putting his up!!!!
xx
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Great pics....
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Wow! That is some long board.
And the sheep are absolutely adorable ;D
I think Steve may have some competition ;)
Jan
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Hi JB! So glad to see more pics of you - the knitting is beautiful, and how in the world do you handle that big paddle board!!!???
(I see that your Dad helps!)
I am with Nancy - can we come visit, it looks lovely at your parent's home.
It doesn't matter the season, i love to travel and meet people!
So glad to read your posts and know you are doing so well!!
Please keep in touch - you, like many other post-op patients, are an inspiration to those of us yet to go thru treatment.
All my best!
Sue
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Photobucket has something going on so I can't see the pics at the moment but great to hear that you're back on the water JB. You'll find it wonderful balance therapy.
I'm beginning to wonder if I'm being a bit too optomistic about recovery. I'm hoping for surgery early June and to still be able to paddle the CCBC Aug 15th. We'll see...going to give it my best.
If you're finding the boards too heavy you might consider a sling or the mule. I'm getting a mule for the beach this summer...pack a couple of boards...cooler, chairs, umbrella, on it and away you go.
http://www.muletransportsystems.com/
http://www.k5.com/getproduct.asp?p=24359&s=928&b=34
Ernie you've got no excuses...in Florida...warm year round....get paddling... ;D
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My excuse is that it's too far to go (a good 20 minute drive) :)
Ernie
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Hehe..that's about how far I am Ernie.... ;D...of course as my wife pointed out to me yesterday...I did 3 hours of driving to get 2 hours of good surf... ::)
I still can't see your pics JB...photobucket ate them... >:(. I wan't to see the sheep... ;)
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Pics are working now...Very cool....the sheep ARE cute.. ;D
Looks like a beautiful stretch of beach to enjoy JB. Be safe.
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Glad you like the sheep! They rock!
Funny you should say be safe - I gave my parents the shock of their life yesterday - went paddling about 4pm was gorgeous out - thought mmm, I'll head over to the boat ramp - at least 1/2 hour paddling away.... little did I know they couldn't see me from the balcony and thought I'd drowned or a shark had got me!!! I paddled back and about half way home it was starting to get dark and I got the fear! I was paddling like crazy to get back before I was out on the water in the pitch black! Luckily I got back just as the sun went behind the mountains but I was greeted by a not too impressed dad! Ooops! He took great pleasure in telling me the sharks come in to feed when it's dark... well you know what, that's information I could have used before i went out! Anyway all was well - I saw lots of fish jumping, I hope because of the approach of me on my board, not the approach of a great white pointer!
Anyway, have put a vid up of my first paddle after the op (last week) on the Acoustic neuroma group page on facebook - here's the link!
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=185147495292&oid=8190517727
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Hi JB,
Loved the video and the song. I didn't know there was a FB group. How many from here are on there? Loved the sheep too - how cute!
Glad that you are making so much progress.
Keri
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There's definitely a few of us on there Keri. Glad you liked the vid - I'm currently editing a vid of my recovery which I'll chuck on there too. The six vids that are on there that TJ made really helped me before the surgery and made me realise that it wouldn't be that bad just afterwards so I wanted to record my progress too. So far so good - I've edited up to about day six post op - had to add a few subtitles because my voice was so little after surgery! Back to normal now! Stay tuned for the next episode!!!
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JB,
That was wicked awesome!
If I could swim :-[, I might be tempted to try it myself seeing how I have my own lake across the street! :D
Glad you are doing so well.
Scarlett
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Cool video, JB. How do you do that cellulose slide thing? And the underwater stuff at the end? Love the waterfowl making their appearances on cue. I'll have to take some editing classes. Nice song, too.
When do you head out for the UK?
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Great vid. Give her hell Dad!
I scared Sue last year by getting caught out about 3 miles when the wind came up offshore. Long paddle in against stiff winds. She gave me an earfull when i called to let her know i was off the water...well after dark.
The sharks do tend to come out to feed at night but so far I have yet to hear of a single attack on a standup board. I think we look too much like a boat for their taste. I've been out for moonlight paddles. Beautiful on a calm windless night.
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Glad you all like it! Nancy - I did it all in iMovie on my Mac - it's only the third one I've done, I'm really new at it but luckily the software does most of the work and is pretty idiot proof!
It was so lovely out Bob - the water was dead calm when I was paddling back in apart from the occasional jumping fish - gorgeous. Am paying for it now - think I overextended myself going out for so long, bit tired still! Ah well, will get back out tomorrow and have another go!
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JB -
Great pictures -- I love the litte sheep you knitted! You and Steve should definitely go into business. For some reason I couldn't get the video to play, maybe Facebook is having a problem right not, so I'll look again later. You are just amazing paddleboarding so soon after surgery. I'm happy when I can walk in a somewhat straight line! ;D
Wishing you continued good healing,
Wendy
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Hi all,
Sorry for the silence of late, just getting on with things and not on the computer as much as I have been. All going well here - off tomorrow for the two hour drive to the physio for my second session which should be good! Balance is almost fixed I'd say - it's getting better all the time. Friday I have my post surgery MRI in Melbourne and Monday I have to see the neuro for my (hopefully) last check up before I can head back to the UK. Cross fingers for that one! Hair is growing back and is probably about 2-3 cm now which is good... still a long way to go though!
All is well!!
JB xx
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Great to hear JB. How close to the coast and whereabouts in the UK. Believe it or not I have standup connections over there too.... ;D. We actually have someone coming over for the Cape Cod Bay Challenge from the UK.
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Close-ish to the coast (I consider anywhere in the UK to be close-ish to the coast as it's a lot smaller than Australia!), probably an hour or so to the Norfolk coast, but I'm in Cambridge. Apparently my friend saw someone paddleboarding down the Cam (river running through Cambridge) yesterday! Good to know there's people there doing it!!
I'd definitely believe it - you've got standup connections everywhere!
All good today at the physio - she said I'm doing great and gave me a whole heap more fabulous exercises - and I bought a balance wobble cushion to practice on. Then I had to go to the dentist for a check up - good news, my teeth are perfect - bad news, my wisdom teeth are completely impacted and I need an operation asap to get them out! AAAaaaaaaaarrrrghgghghgh! Not happy! I'm over operations. If only I knew before my AN op when half my face was numb! Perhaps I could have had the op at the same time! Even better! Ah well... can't be helped! I'm sure though it'll probably be far worse than my AN op - I'm sure of it in fact!!
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Jo,
Glad to hear you are doing so well. I can't imagine standing on a paddleboard but applaud you that you can. You're having an amazing recovery -- sorry to hear about your wisdom teeth though. I hope it's not as bad as you fear.
Wendy
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JB~
Glad things are going well for you - sorry about the teeth! That stinks!
K ;D
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Oh, no! My daughter got hooked on the post-extraction meds, so watch out! The lad never took a one when he had his out, though, Braveheart that he is!
When's all that happening? Tassie or UK? I guess you guys get free everything, so no worries in that department. Ice cream, too!
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JB ~
I'm pleased to learn that your post-op exam was uneventful and that your recovery is speeding along but I'm sorry about the wisdom teeth. These often have to be removed in young folks. My son (now 29) had it done when he was about 21. He was under anesthesia for the procedure and had no real pain, afterward. We were surprised but grateful and had 'prepared' him for the pain we thought he would have. He went out with friends that same night! As with many surgical procedures, even those as pedestrian as wisdom teeth extractions, every case will be somewhat different. I only hope you're one of those fortunate folks who have no real pain problems following the necessary extractions. You'll be in my prayers and, very likely, those of many others. Let us know how you do. Thanks. :)
Jim
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On ya JB.
The wisdom teeth are a piece of cake compared to what you've been through. I had mine out in hospital as well, when i was about 21. Didn't feel a thing, my mouth was swollen for a few days and i lost 5 kilos afterwards coz i didn't feel like eating. Shame i put it on and more as the years rolled on!
cheers
Laz
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Awesome...great news. The discs are boring but they do work. I actually make mine feel more like a standup board just by adding a small piece of plywood.
Hehe...I also had perfect teeth but just had to get my wisdom tooth out.... ;D
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I just found out that my daughter doesn't have wisdom teeth...I thought that was really strange, but glad it will save me same money!! However, when I said something about it, I found out that my mother nor my MIL have them...guess it is more common than I thought - at least in our family!
K
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JB,
Hope the wisdom teeth come out easily. It's a trip to the dentist and not brain surgery, yea!
Just keep ICE on your face immediately post op (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off or whatever they tell you)
and with some pain meds for a couple of days, you'll be good as new I know. Make sure you have ice on your jaws on the way home, not when you GET home!
If you keep the swelling down, that's half the battle.
My son had his taken out during his winter break from college and did great.
They found that he had an "extra tooth" with the xrays, :o so that was taken out too.
Good luck,
Maureen
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Thanks for all the support and the tips! It's crazy isn't it - to be more scared of getting your wisdom teeth out than brain surgery! What a dork! I have good news today - just saw my neuro person and she looked at the MRI I had on Friday and declared me tumour free! Woo hoo! I have to have an MRI and see someone in a year and then every year after that for a year, but then I'm done. Whoop whoop! How exciting!
xx
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just saw my neuro person and she looked at the MRI I had on Friday and declared me tumour free!
Great News!
Celebrate. :)
DHM
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Tumor free! ...aren't those some great words... ;D ;D
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Fair suck of the sauce bottle JB ( for all non Ozies, a not so common expression down under currently being used by our Prime Minister to appear cool)
NO AN - Those words are worth bottling. Well done JB and a woo hoo back atcha
Laz
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CONGRATULATIONS, JB!!!!!
I pray all of your future MRIs/updates are clear.
Sincerely,
Sue
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Congrats, JB!
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JB .....
I think a party is in order for the clear MRI!! It's always a relief to have the confirmed news, isn't it? As for the wisdom teeth removal ..... you already have excellent advice. Not much fun for the first 24 hours but with ice packs and following your doctor's orders it usually brings a quick end to the discomfort. My two oldest kids had theirs out all at once under general anesthesia and did well ..... and you will too!
Clarice
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Congrats to you too, JB!!
So glad to hear the good news. Not that I doubted; it's just always nice to have it official!
Keri
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Tumor Free
WOOO HEEEEEEE
Maureen
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All good on this side of the world - had my final physio appointment today before I return to the UK - she said I'm doing great which is excellent! I've got a load of exercises to keep doing and I'll probably find a physio in the UK to keep up the good work. I had my wisdom teeth out today too - no pain whatsoever!!! I didn't feel the needles going in or the teeth coming out, fantastico! Started to feel a very slight ache starting a few hours later once the anaesthetic wore off and took a couple of paracetamol and all gone. I'm having a dream run for medical situations... not that I'm inviting any more!!! Back to the UK on 28th July and work 3rd August... eek!!!
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Hi JB,
LOL...when you get back to the UK drop the physio and get a paddleboard... ;D. Get on some of the waves and you'll get plenty of physio... ::)
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You go, Girl! You rocked it again!
Nancy
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Hi JB!
So glad to hear that your final doc visit went well!
(Wow - do you believe how quickly time has gone by and now it is all just part of your postie story?)
Best of luck as you return to the UK and back to work.
Please keep in touch! ;)
Sincerely,
Sue O.
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Hi All, sorry I've not been around much, lots to organise at home! I'm now on my way back to the UK to get back to life! I'm just having a plane change in Kuala Lumpur then it's another 12 hours or something... mmm. Not much fun! Just wanted to thank you all for your support since I was diagnosed and through my surgery - I'm really lucky to have found this site. Will let you all know how my first day back at work goes!!!
much love
JB xx
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good luck JB
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Thanks for the luck! I might need it at work! So far back in the UK so good - it's raining though. So much for summer! Ah well!
If anyone's interested, I've uploaded a little movie on to the AN facebook page of my AN experience. Here are the links:
Part One: http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=227454930292&oid=8190517727
Part Two: http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=227488245292&oid=8190517727
Part Three: http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=227664425292&oid=8190517727
Part Four: http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=227722615292&oid=8190517727
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Hi Joeblogs
just saw Cambridge on the London news today Monday and thought of you as they were doing an article on the new craze - paddle boarding in the river. They said today was the first day, I was watching out to see if you were there. Have you had a go yet in Cambridge?
regards Irenuk
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I did it today in Cambridge!!! This evening! How funny!! I heard it was on the news this morning and I think the guy I went with had press there all day taking photos and all that - there was a guy taking photos tonight, but alas, none of me!!! Good thing too I was looking a fright and seem to be coming off the worse for wear after a recent influx of doughnuts! It was super fun though! I took pics of my friends might put them up tomorrow if I have a moment. Today was my first day back at work too and I am really tired... I think they're going to do a phased return to work from tomorrow onwards, sort of 4-5 hours a day for a week or so then after that extra time every day till I'm back to speed. Woo hoo!
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Congrats, JB! Can't wait for the photos.