Reality Check

Hi gang! I hope everyone had a very nice Christmas and holiday! Of course, i was saddend by the death of former Philadelphia Eagle, Reggie White. I had the pleasure of meeting him and he was such a nice man. The reason why i post this is because there has been talk that he died from sleep apnea. During pre-testing for surgery, you may be asked to take a sleep study so that doctors can see if you have sleep apnea. TAKE IT!! I've heard a lot of people complain that it was a pain to go through, but please don't take it lightly.......it could be the difference between life and death. After all, Reggie White was just 43 years old. It just makes you think of how precious life can be, don't take advantage of it. I am so thankful for Dr. Wynn and how she gave me my new life. Ever since surgery, i have loved and appreciated life to the fullest. Needless to say, my eyes have been opened even wider by this tragic death of a truly wonderful man. -Joe-

Joe, I also was shocked and saddened by the news of Reggie's (the minister of defense) premature death at the age of 43. He died in his sleep. His death is being associated with sleep apnea and other respiratory problems. I second your call for everyone to take that sleep study prior to surgery, and use the cpap if the doctor has told you to use it. A good night's sleep will increase your energy, alertness, and mood. Probably more important is that you should not assume that because you have lost weight that your sleep apnea has gone away. The only way to know for sure is to have another sleep test after your surgery. I have had two since my surgery and now have officially been cleared, and no longer exhibit any other symptoms for sleep apnea, and no longer have to use the CPAP. Go green, Rob

So sad about Reggie Its very true...I have heard soo many complaints about people having to go through the sleep apnea testing but its SOO important to have it done! For all pre-ops... I read a story on this web site about a lady dying because no one knew she had sleep apnea and the nurses did not check on her that often after her surgery in the recovery room and she stopped breathing and no one even was sure how long she was gone. Its very scary. So be sure to be tested to be on the safe and healthy side! Best wishes everyone! Elizabeth M

Hi Joe: I too was deeply saddened by the death of Reggie White. I'm not a big football fan, but I did like him a lot. I had a mild case of sleep apnea and since losing 47 lbs. I am sleeping a lot better. I have a sleep apnea machine (I forget the medical term for it) that I no longer need. If anyone could use it, please let me know. It is practically brand new. Ruth