Not So Fast, Boys and Girls...

Whelp. Yesterday did not go as planned. My optimistic self figured we'd meet with the cardiologist, he'd look at the MRI and EKG results and concur with previous opinions that I could just "skate" into my knee surgery as scheduled. I was soooo wrong.

Instead, he is requiring that I undergo stress testing (chemical, because my knees wouldn't handle physical ones) before he'll clear me for surgery. Because time is of the essence (surgery scheduled for Tuesday next), we had to juggle previous appointments to add in the stress tests. 

Rather than having my post-op consult with the surgeon's assistant today, I'll be undergoing multiple stress tests. If I can't get in to see the assistant this afternoon because of her other commitments, we'll have to drive up on Monday, and then again on Tuesday. That is, if the cardiologist clears me for surgery. He listed a long set of circumstances under which he might not clear me. Mainly, because he wants to be completely sure I don't have a heart attack on the table. He said, "Brain before heart. Heart before knees." I know he's looking out for my well-being, but dang it!

Understand, I only had intermittent clues that there might be anything going on with my heart. I thought they were related to a mechanical device which had been implanted for bladder control (Sorry. TMI), and that was removed a few months ago because I didn't need it, and the doctor thought it might be causing the palpitations. I get an occasional flutter now, but no fatigue (that isn't related to my legs right now), no fainting, and no other symptoms. I left yesterday's appointment in tears. I'm so past waiting for my knee replacement that the thought of a delay really upset me.

Well, I'm on my way back to the clinic this morning and will undergo these tests. I'm going to be as optimistic as I possibly can be, and the cardiologist will give us his analysis before we leave the clinic today. I should know by lunchtime whether or not I'll be getting my knee replacement next week, or have to have more done for my heart.

No morning cuppa today...in fact nothing remotely containing caffeine for twenty four hours prior to these tests, so that's been weird, too. As soon as I'm released today, I'm heading downstairs to their cafeteria for a cup of coffee and a candy bar! I'll give you the results tomorrow. On my way out the door now. Wish me luck!

Gratitude...

Even though the discomfort pain continues in my knees, I'm grateful that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. 

I spent most of the day on the telephone setting up appointments and waiting for call-backs. By dinnertime, I had three new dates on my schedule. One with my primary care provider, another for an echocardiogram, and the last for a consultation with a new orthopedist who is in the same office as my last one. I needed to change doctors, as the one I was originally scheduled to perform my repair surgery does not do replacements. 

My appointment with the new one will be to discuss whether or not I can do a partial replacement (less recuperation), or if a full replacement is needed. Either way, both of those surgeries will allow me to walk on both legs post-op, and my non-surgical leg is still reminding me that it's a necessary route.

There was no needlework yesterday, but it is on my agenda for today. Since installing the floor air conditioner unit in the dining room, I've lost my favorite stitching spot, so I need to come up with a new place to spread out with lots of light. I may just bring everything back up to the studio, which is okay, too.

What's on your agenda? I'd love to chat about something besides my knees. The hazard of getting...more mature...is that you tend to focus on the aches and pains, or the doctor's appointments. I really don't want to be that old woman. So, help a girl out here. Tell me about something fun in your world right now. Please.