Thursday, June 15, 2023

 Thursday, June 15, 2023

     Today's surgery was scheduled for 11, but I figured it would happen at one. The orderlies arrived shortly before 10, so the operation would be on time.

The atmosphere in pre-op was great, and laughter bubbled.  I learned that Kevin, one of the nurses, was sadly leaving a job he loved for an administrative post. He needed the bump up in salary and a more forgiving schedule. He has a six-year-old and a three-year-old; childcare costs him $3000 monthly. The next thing I remember is waking up in my room.

I didn't do much more than sleep. My arm was killing me. I refused painkillers at first.  I changed my mind. The pain level didn't change; my mental state changed. What a sweet sleep. I was still aware of the pain; I just didn't care.

I did care that my pinky finger was completely numb, and the ring finger wasn't far behind. Dr. Chang said she was concerned about compression syndrome.  The fractured elbow would cut off circulation to my hand.  The doctor showed up around five pm. She unwrapped the ace bandage. That provided immediate relief. It had been applied tightly. Because of my broken elbow and shoulder, I had to keep the sling in place.  Dr. Chang said she and her physician's assistant were pleased with their job on my elbow. They didn't get a 180-degree angle, but someone who wasn't looking for it wouldn't know the difference. She spent an hour with me. She enjoyed my humor.

Boy, being here is an experience and a half. Some people think I'm a scream and a half, and some think I'm offensive.