Here I Go Again...Part 2

Well, once again, things have been side tracked just a bit. As planned, the surgery was set for this past Friday, 11/18. All the doctors and nurses were made aware of the problems with my breathing tube from the last time. They were even able to pull last years chart to refer to. This time they were prepared. I had to undergo nasal intubation while awake, although I was given some of those great meds that kinda make you not really care, along with a few shots to anesthetize my throat area. However, things did get kind of rough. They once again were not able to get the tube in...after trying for a couple of hours. They were however, able to view and discern the problem using a fiberoptic scope. Basically, I have a kink in my trachea, created from the many years of excess fat and flesh around my neck. Dr. Patel, the anesthesiologist, told me they were able to get the breathing tube just past the kink, but the tube then jammed into my windpipe on the other side of the kink,and cut off my air flow completely. (I remember that part very well...they kept telling me to breathe, but no air was coming.) At this writing I've been rescheduled for 12/8.This time around, they will perform a tracheostomy for the insertion of the breathing tube, then proceed with my lap (I hope) RNY. If all goes well, I hope to only have to have the trach for 2 or 3 days. If anyone knows of someone that has had to have a trach for their surgery, please drop me a line. I have to say, I'm a bit more nervous about the idea of a hole at the base of my neckthan I thought I would be. Your input would be greatly appreciated. Peace in Christ, Kaye PS - My partner of 16 years has been by my side every step of the way. She even spent her birthday (11/19) by my bedside in the hospital. I'm really blessed to have her, and thought I'd let the world know how great she is.

Kaye, I have to say, you are handling the bumps in the road with grace and great courage. I am not sure if I would want a trach, but then, it cannot be all that uncommon...however unfortunate and for you, again, inconvenient. My prayers remain with you and your partner through this process. Maureen

Thanks for your kind words, Maureen. I don't know if anything I have could be called grace or courage. Believe me, I don't depend on myself to keep mind and heart in synch. Every step in this journey belongs to Him. Your prayers uplift me, and I appreciate your kindess. Peace, Kaye

Dear Kaye, Your road has been twisty and turny---but still you endure with a wonderful sense of calm and determination. I admire you, and trust that all of these forks in the road will eventually lead you to exactly where you need to be. I will keep good thougts in my heart for you for next month's surgery. I know it makes all the difference in the world for you to have the unconditional love and support of your wife. None of us are suppose to go through this life alone! Best of luck to you, Jessica

Thank you so much, Jessica. I agree with you, that this path is leading me where I am supposed to be. Everything happens for a reason, and I know that I've continued to learn lessons on this bumpy journey. Thanks again for the good thoughts for both me and my partner. You're kind and uplifting. Peace, Kaye

Kaye, I can be no more eloquent that the previous posters but I maybe able to give you some of my insight on trach tubes. I've been a RN since '74 and have see and cared for many people with the tube and even helped put them in at the bedside. Yes it is a very scary proceedure but it sounds like you have good doctors taking care of you and skill in placing the tube make all the difference in the world. In a way, with the deviation in your windpipe, having a good clear passage for breathing post-op through the trach tube may very well improve your recovery. It will insure proper ventilation which enhances tissue healing. Yes it will be one more thing, but as Martha says "a very good thing" so they can do the best job possiable to help you. May God bless both you and your lover and be by your sides to give you both comfort support through this process of gaining control over your life and body. Huggers for you and your wife! Derrick

Derrick: Thank you for taking the time to give me such loving detail regarding the trach. I can't thank you enough for your insight, prayers, and hugs. It's people like all of you here that make the difference in the uplift of those who need just a little bit more motivation. This means so much to me...I really appreciate it. Kaye

Kaye I am really in awe of your courage and commitment. I had the lapband not the RNY so I'm not really all that knowledgeable about the procedure except that it is really big surgery. I am so very glad to know that your partner is so supportive. My beloved is wonderful and has stood there for and with me in some very dark places. Right now, she is with me as I go through the process of probably losing my father. I wish I could find the right way to let her know just how much her love means to me. I'll be thinking of praying for you and your partner. love Charlotte

I love that you call your partner beloved! That is such a wonderful term of endearment. Please know that I am saying a prayer for you, your spouse, and your family in regard to your father. You're very blessed to have her caring heart by your side during difficult times. Her love and support can make all the difference. Thank you very, very much for your kindness and prayers. Peace, Kaye