Great ad posted by United Health Foundation.

"Medical studies show most people suffer a 68% hearing loss when naked." The tips they give for those doctor visits are 1) take a friend, someone who will help you remember important information, 2) Educate yourself, 3) Be up-front. Let your doctor know everything otherwise they might miss something, and 4) If you want answers, you have to ask questions. This is a neat sight with some basic rules that everyone should follow. Hope it helps the premies, and gives some support to all you posties. Rob

Rob, Thanks for sharing. I have "white coat" syndrome, my blood pressure rises simply because I am in a doctors office. And this is just for routine things! You can imagine what "fun" it is when the tests and more serious stuff comes!!!...I've learned a lot from all of you, but one piece of advice I take away from this message board when I read something like this is "stand up for yourself." Thanks for making a newbie whimp like myself gather some strength. OK, how long do I remain a newbie? You know officially?!? I am nearly there to surgery and have been a longtime reader of the board, participating in conversations for about a month. Not that being a newbie is a bad thing...So I am just kidding, I guess today is my day to let the weirdness of my humor be known. HEY, it's Friday -- yipee!!!!!)

Ms. Kitty, Newbies or preemies become posties/oldies after surgery. At that point you will be a looser too. Until that time you will be nervous, ask questions and generally be a part of the group of people that are anxious to have the surgery date arrive so that you can be a looser too. Once you have been re-born, you will still have questions, but the difference now is you have experienced what the rest of us loosers have and can share that with the other newbies. I hope that makes sense. In the meantime read some of our journals. You'll see that we were just as anxious as you are. Experienced alot of the same fears and worries, pain & humilitaion. Try to stay focused. Give up the worry to God and He will provide. Hope to meet you in June at the PMRI meeting. ((HUGS)) Elissa

Thanks Elissa. I have found the journals to be VERY helpful. I find myself saying over and over "that's what I am thinking!" Someday I hope I can be an inspiration to someone out there just as you all have helped me. I know this message board is the ideal place to go when I need support or advice. Have a great weekend, everyone! Stay COOL! Kit

Thanks for the post, you always have some good info to share with us. Linda By the way, I even READ the word naked and run screaming to hide lol