Relieved And Confused

Just when you think you have a game plan - things change.

Yesterday I had my appointment for the surgeon to do the bronchoscope and dilation.  

I had to be there at 11:00 and the way I worry about traffic and crowded parking garages we arrived at 10:30.  Traffic wasn't bad but the garage was pretty full.  Once inside they took me right back to be prepped for surgery.  By 11:00 I was in and ready to go.  Then she said I wasn't scheduled for the OR until 1:00 so we waited and waited.  The whole time my blood pressure was being monitored every 10 minutes and I had an IV going.  Plus this surgeon requires the leg pressure sock things to prevent blood clots.  They said he always requires a shot of heparin.  Silly me thought they'd put that in my IV but I was wrong.  It went in my stomach!  It actually didn't hurt that bad but it sounded awful to me.   By 1:30 or 2:00 I was informed that the OR I was scheduled for had to be used for an emergency and I was on hold.  It was after 3:00 before they finally took me back.  The procedure and recovery took about an hour.  

While waiting to go back for the surgery the nurses were discussing the resection surgery and how major of an ordeal that is.  Saying maybe 10 days in hospital and very important to do exactly as told afterwards and a very long time off work.  I was asking lots of questions and preparing myself for the upcoming surgery.

Well, after the procedure the surgeon came in to see me and said at this time they're cancelling the resection surgery.  He doesn't feel it's worth the risk.  He says the narrowed area is short but just really too close to my vocal chords for comfort.  He doesn't want me to end up with a trach and/or lose my voice.  He said as long a I can come for these dilations as needed and they work enough to help me function through normal daily activities then we'll just stick with these procedures.  Wow... that's not what I thought I'd hear.  I'm very glad he went in and took a look so he would have a game plan for the surgery since he then found out he didn't think it was wise to continue. 

It's a relief and yet confusing.  I guess it's just something I will have to live with and just take it one day at a time.  Thankfully I have a wonderful family to help me through the bad days; when the narrowing worsens and I have no energy.  They take great care of me and I thank them for that!

Thanks for all the prayers, texts and messages.  Today I'm breathing good and relaxing at home.  Back to work tomorrow.