Crying Uncle

Okay. That's it. I've had it. I had a day and night so unbelievably painful that I cried "uncle." For those of you who know me, you know it must have been bad.

And to top it off, I've talked with my Rheumatologist and my regular M.D. and they both encouraged me to get it done and over with. Whether I do it now or in the future is up to me, but it's going to have to be done because the joint is not going to get any better on its own. Now that's 4 docs I respect who have advised that it's in my best interest to take care of it and try to get my life back now.

I've confirmed my surgery date. September 11, 2008 is the big day. My DH and I will fly up on the 8th for pre-op goodies, then we'll presumably have a day to goof off (and stress!) before the festivities begin.

When I talked with Dr. V's medical assistant, she mentioned that the doc was doing 4 THRs that day. I asked her if I could be scheduled first and she said "sure!" That's good-- the last thing I want is to have to sit around that morning and fret while I'm waiting my turn. Heck no. Let's get me in there, knock me out, and get it over with. :)

Now that I've confirmed that I'm going through with the surgery, I've been given a list of things to complete.

#1: Dental work. I have to have a cleaning, check-up, x-rays, etc. to make sure everything is good in my mouth. There's a link between bacteria in the mouth (harbored in the gums) and stroke, heart disease, and joint failure. It's my understanding that if the bacteria gets into your bloodstream after surgery it can infect the tissue surrounding the new joint and that can cause joint failure. Not a good thing. So, although I hate that scritchy sound you hear when my teeth are being cleaned, I'm sucking it up and getting it done on Tuesday. (By the way, the doc is also making me a new night guard-- I clench my teeth on the best of days and REALLY clench them when I'm in pain. You can see where this thought process is going....)

#2: An EKG. Let's be sure the old ticker is going to keep on ticking.

#3: A bone density test. Obviously they want to be sure that my femur is strong enough for a prosthesis to be pounded into it with a mallet.

#4: Pap smear. Again, obvious reasons. Besides, we gals shouldn't be putting this test off anyway. Not that any of us would ever even consider doing so....

#5: Shopping. A robe and gown will be my wardrobe for 3+ days, plus special non-binding circulatory socks are a must.

I think that's it until the pre-op exam. At that time there will be lab work and more x-rays done.

So, my faithful readers, the countdown begins. 31 days and counting. Thanks for hanging in there through this and for your continued prayers.