Hi Paul,
How you holding up?
Cal and I just got inyo Calgary. 24 days at this and I think its time to think a of heading back. Cal and I will return Friday May 13th pm sometime.
The money is good, but my body has a few more squeeks in it.
Looking forward to catching up with you. Is there anything I can get you from Calgary?
Let me know.
Jim
On April 20, 2011...
Hi Paul, every time I see the flooding in Winnpeg, I think about you hoping you're not literally bailing out. We had water in our basement at the cottage last weekend. We are on a lake near Mt. Tremblant and I thought I had all the backups required to prevent water infiltration with a battery backup sump pump running off my boat battery on a constant trickle charge. But low and behold, the power went out for a few hours so my wife and I had to bail the water out of the sump hole (pot to bucket, up the stairs and dump into the field out back. Lucky it happened on the weekend when we were there. Anyhow, kept everything dry and the power came back on in time to watch the Habs beat the Bruins in game#2. We won't talk about Monday night though, ok.
o news from my end. Still awaiting that call; looks like I missed that mid-to-late April thing. Let us know all is ok with you.... Eric B.
Paul McLeod Hey Eric....so far so good on the water front...they blew up the mouth of the Red River so that helpe ... Read more
Paul McLeod Hey Eric....so far so good on the water front...they blew up the mouth of the Red River so that helped to release a lot of doenstream water while we still wait for the crest form MN and ND. HWY 75 is now in it's annual state of closure, meaning a 4 - 5 hour detour for freight which shows up at the grocery store.
We are expecting daughter and grandson in Winnipeg for the next 1o days! Can yu think of a better distraction? jack is 10 months and crawling so we have three days to kid proof the hosue. apparently he has a penchant for electrical cords (future electician?).
As for my personal journey, I continue to deepen in peace, not that I'm enamoured with the CHCS but it's all we've got and it's as simple a matter as life or death so on that part I am thankful.
On the other hand, it is a cumbersome neolithic institution that lumbers along with bent and out of round wheels, full of head scracthing eigmatic issues. I have been lecturing the nurses at the help desk, talking tot hem in riddles and asking them how they like it. "How are you doing Mr. McLeod?" "I am as I am", is my standard response with the proviso, "and no guarantees".
The most glaring deficit is their total disregard for holistic medicine. they works on people bodies, as for the mind, spirit, and soul, that went out with Darwin.
When I ramble on I think of the people on meds, drunk, depressed. Who would announce a wedding with no date? No date means no event, right?
Who would announce an election with no date? No date no event, right? Well, apparently is just fine fo announce a surgery with no date. No date means no event, right? At least that's how the human mind works in my experience.
Anyhow, God i good al the time, and these are cloaked opportunities for spiritual growth, for which I am thankful. Cause, ya see, when you're thankful ya can be sad.
Thanks for the note Eric, I'll be prayin' for ya.
Paul M
On April 19, 2011...
what a morning...
about 3 months ago my surgeon's chief nurse calls me to say I needed another echo. I phone back the next day to confirm that I accept the appointment date.
Flash forward 3 months to this morning; I get to the hospital for an echo at 8:30 am. I haven't slept well - so I get the welcome desk.
I don't quite remember where to go for the echo so the receptionist tells me to go to the outpatient echo kiosk to find out.
At the outpatient kiosk they are a chatting away and finally decide maybe this tall guy standing there needs something-
'Sir you not at the right place, plus my dtabase tells me you do not have any appointment today" may you should go see the surgeon secretariy pool if you are sure you do have an appointment.
At the surgeon secretary pool. Sir what do you want? You don't look well maybe you should sit down.
'Uh, am suppose to have an echo here this morning - yes I"m to have surgery soon with the chief surgeon.'
let me call the his chief nurse. Meanwhile this other secretary gets involved and says: 'Sir when you get a call it's important to note the name of the person who called you'
Chief nurse at the phone : 'Oh I'm so sorry sir your appointment was canceled but I forgot to call you to let you know.'
so I don't say anything -just shove the handset back to the secretary - pissed off - left my wife sort it out with those dumb secretaries.
there, I feel better...
I mean for a echo - why not just send a letter.
THis is not the first time I've been pissed off at the staff at this venerable institution - plus you can't complain - no quality control.
pissed off,
pete
Paul McLeod Pete, I think I can match you and raise you…..awhile back I was scheduled for
an appointment with my ... Read more
Paul McLeod Pete, I think I can match you and raise you…..awhile back I was scheduled for
an appointment with my then cardiologist, whom I later fired…
….you know how it is….you go to reception…take a number sort of thing….
then you sit down and answer numerous redundant and boring questions…
…they want to make sure there are NOT 20 people in the same room with your
name….you finally get through all the hops and are told to report to the other desk
where they ask you another whack of questions….finally telling you to “have a seat
over there”…..
….so off I go and seat myself down….it’s early in the morning and I am thinking to myself….maybe a little ct nap might be nice….
….in the background I can hear the girl at the desk on the phone…..she is calling
patient’s to inform them that DR so and so won’t be in today…..I think nothing of it until
I hear them saying to my recording machine….Mr __________, this is Dr ________’s
office just calling to notify that Dr __________ is away ill today so there will be no need
to come in for your appointment…..
….something jerks me out of my daze to full awareness, I’m sure I had heard my name….maybe I was just dozing off….after pondering what all this might mean I decide to check it out….so slouching up to the desk I ask the assistant (as the other girl was still
smokin’ the phone…ah….excuse me….was that my name that I just heard…..
….she waits until the phone smoker gets off the line and then they have a parly…after some discussion they conclude as follows….Mr __________. Mr _____ is away ill today so there is no need to come in for your appointment….
…..I said, well I’m already here, so I guess I’ll just go home….they looked little stunned, especially the blond one…..OH….was that you I was just calling….I said I think so….
…..well Dr _______....I said I know, I was sitting over there listening to the call….tell you what…I’ll just go home….they concluded that might be a good idea….sheeesh
On April 18, 2011...
Paul,
that website presents sceptical views of man made global warming - so it's actually anti-Dion worldview :.))
pete
On April 17, 2011...
when you get back to teaching - teach the kids how to think straight about the environment, otherwise there won't be enough money for anything else.
http://wattsupwiththat.com/
pete
Paul McLeod hey pete....that's an absolute scream....that;s going back to the Dion days....
Paul McLeod "Yeah, that's all a guy can do. If at first you don't succeed keep trying?.
Where you been hiding anyway?"
On April 12, 2011...
Thanks Paul!
Your entry today is exactly what I needed. God's timing is always perfect. Thanks for being a pillar of faith in these storms. Thank you Jesus for your presence with us! God bless!
Tim K.
On April 3, 2011...
Not sure, Paul. Sounds like quite a low dose and infrequent usage to cause withdrawal. Here is what I do know. I am taking .25 Xanax every night for sleep. My doctor said I can take one at night and a half during the day without having withdrawal problems. I normally do not need it during the day.
I also discussed this with the cardiologist at Cleveland Clinic and was told to take the Xanax as I needed prior to surgery, including the night before and moring of. Xanax is very similar to Ativan. In fact, one of these drugs is often given right before surgery to calm the patient's anxiety.
Ruth
Paul McLeod 90 days at 1 mg per day is enough to cause withdrawal....compunded by the por decisions i made the we ... Read more
Paul McLeod 90 days at 1 mg per day is enough to cause withdrawal....compunded by the por decisions i made the week leading up to the event...i hope to hear back from the pharmacist but i will be taking this up with my family doc in 3 weeks for sure....you're on in 18 days...i'm praying for you....it can't hurt....thanks Ruth
On April 1, 2011...
Paul,
I am glad to hear you seem to have found some peace and acceptance of what "is." I am a writer, so everything going on inside me comes out in words, usually type written. I literally spend many many hours a day on my computer writing. It gives me something to do. It allows me to get my feelings off my chest and, of course, may write something I can sell. It also gives my now boring life some purpose; getting up an working on whatever I'm working on. Keeping a journal can do the same for you. You also seem to like to write. This is a great way to vent and release all that pent up anxiety. So, write away, my friend.
Ruth
On March 31, 2011...
Hey Paul,
We're pullen for ya at this end.
You just hang in there! If your ever at the end of your rope, and you can't find the strength to talk, just call my # and hang up. I will get the message and pass the information on to our Father.
J
PS Them rocks thawd out yet?
Paul McLeod Thanks there Jimbob....went for breakfast with George this morning....he's always curious how you're ... Read more
Paul McLeod Thanks there Jimbob....went for breakfast with George this morning....he's always curious how you're doing....you out west yet?
Yeah, them rocks are pretty much thawed out by now. I'm gonna call the Home Depot manager and see if I can take em back for a refund.
Thanks for thinkin' of me and say Hi to Calvin,
Paul M
On March 30, 2011...
hey Paul,
I'm drunk right now but, umm, don't let this thing get to your core - or just get drunk like me, and not give a damn - you got to let your hair down once in a while...
pete
Paul McLeod hey Pete there buddy....ya tippin' a few are ya....well what works for me seems to be exhaustion....d ... Read more
Paul McLeod hey Pete there buddy....ya tippin' a few are ya....well what works for me seems to be exhaustion....daily the cycle plays out....crankin' it and crankin' it and then when I've got myself all tuckered out from frettin'....why I just lays meself down and crashes fer awhile...then I get up and feel like a new man....no hangover though....now i got to work on not crankin' it during the day....lived my 59 yrs like that....used exhaustion as a sedative....this is all new to me....tip one for me there buddy
Paul M
On March 30, 2011...
Hi Paul, sorry to read you are having a rough time of it. I can see you are venting through your writing as someone not in our condition would do so through physical exertion. Hang in there. The days are getting brighter, warmer and the Dairy Queen even opened here last week. You'll make it. I am still awaiting my call for early to mid April... We'll see... Take it easy.... Eric
Paul McLeod Hey Eric....thanks for the support and encouragement....one thing i have learned over the years is no ... Read more
Paul McLeod Hey Eric....thanks for the support and encouragement....one thing i have learned over the years is not to go it on my own....that's a quick trip down the well....it's only been the last couple of days....Monday was the wake up call....yesterday I rebounded....and today it's a struggle again but not with the turbo stuff like a had before....the lack of scheduling, structure, and overall sense of meaning are starting to eat away at me since I decided to not be as stupid and do stuff that I shouldn't which was giving my left ventricle fits....today I noticed a tire going flat on the car....i pulled into the nearest tire shop and got it fixed....in a previously life I'd pull into a parking lot, take the wheel off, get my plug kit going and be on the road in 15 minutes....so I did smarten up on that one....my wife is a rock and supports me big time and there's nothing I can't share with here even though she doesn't have all the answers a body listening is very therapeutic....thanks again Eric, you rock.
Paul M
On March 30, 2011...
Hello Paul,
I was wondering about you just yesterday. I'm sorry to hear you're doing badly. But I can relate - totally - as I find myself there frequently (except for the spiraling anxiety). I do not believe in god, so I cannot or will not comment on that.
I know I've mentioned this a lot, but maybe you didn't read it. There are excellent pre-surgery and relaxation CDs available at Amazon Books to help with the anxiety. They really work. Several people on the HVJs have used them with great success. Might I suggest that you spend a little time and look for them and order them? One is by Peggy Huddleston "Preparing for Surgery." Others are by Belleruth Naparstek (Successful Surgery, Anxiety & Panic Attacks, Music for Surgery, etc." I have all of them and listen to them regularaly and they help enormously. You can download them onto your MP3 player and listen to them each night before going to sleep and upon awakening int he AM. These CDs are recommended by all the major heart hospitals in the U.S. and many pts. listen to their MP3 players during surgery. The doctors and hospitals are very cooperative about this - and, in fact, encourage it.
If your anxiety continues to spiral out of control I can highly recommend EMDR therapy (if you can find someone in your area who does it). You can Google it and get lots of information. It worked miraculously for me.
As for the physical exertion - well - you the answer to that one. To continue to push yourself (ourselves) may cause additional damage to the valves and heart. So I think we just need to accept our situation and do nothing. I know it's difficult as I'm in the same boat. I handle my boredom by fooling around ont he computer, reading, watching TV and sometimes cooking. Just so you know you are not alone in this here's my life: wake up around 7:30. On a good day I get out of bed between 8:30 and 9:00. On bad days I stay in bed. Breakfast, feed cats, answer e-mails, etc., read, write, research stuff. If I'm feeling ok I prepare dinner ahead of time because by 3:00 I'm shot. I lie on the sofa almost all day with my computer on my lap, read, email, watch TV. Early shower and in bed by 7:00PM - not sleeping, just in bed, watching TV, reading - to sleep around 11:00-12:00. I no longer go out at all as the ride in the car exhausts me and makes me feel ill. Sooooo ..... you thought YOUR life was boring? We can take solace in knowing this is temporary. For me it's been going on for 8 yrs. But soon it will be over and we will have a new found energy level. So try to hold onto that thought and GET THE CDs!!! My thoughts are with you, Paul.
Ruth Howell
I hope you didn't exhaust yourself composing this comprehensive missive. It is very touching and meaningful to me.
I've got the music going, mp3 player pumping away, i do meditation and prayer as well as Bible reading....there are some awesome resources out there that you referred to thank you very much, as well as I'm on with iTunes....
i have a sister to whom I'm joined at the hip but she's a half world away in the Philippines but she's a rock and always checks up on me....like i was saying previously....
I’ve finally had to make adjustments to a much more sedentary lifestyle and Monday's turbo experience I don't expect to happen again....it was triggered by over exhaustion from the previous week and yesterday I really bounced as I hung out the afternoon with my longtime bud of many years from work....but today was recovery day and that's where it gets sticky....
this afternoon we had an appointment to see the director of the Personal Care home that we are working at getting my Dad into.....that was the better part of the afternoon after which the wifey and I went to a cafe for tea and goodies....
I can still drive....do stuff....but what starts to eat away at me is the limbo feeling along with a sense of emptiness and lack of purpose or meaning....just existing would describe it better....i know these are all JUST feelings and have no basis in fact or reality.....
the problem with guys is our ego is rooted in what we can do….take that away and we get the notion there’s nothing left….all rubbish but that’s how society has conditioned us….
...i've got the grandson coming this summer along with daughter and hubby frpm Indiana as well as everything to look forward to post surg......
every summer the Mcleod clan has a Highland Gathering up in the hills of Washington close to Lyle on the big river....when I came back from the gathering in 2005 I was having chest pains then...my Dr put me in a 4 yr study which proved nothing and then the valve started to slip big time....
from mild in '08 to acute in April 2010....from then on it was pain city as i raged at the inevitable reality that I wasn't going to get better any time soon....I did get all the outdoor fall work done and was actually not totally stupid as I got help from family and work bee etc....
so it's blunder on…. but you are a dear and I hope somewhere along the way I can encourage you somewhat....hammering this out has been great and maybe you'll get a chuckle out of reading it....all the way over in Maine eh?....i mean Huh?
Paul M
On March 26, 2011...
Hey maybe I don't need this surgery after all; maybe that's the strategy...just make the patient until he gives up and wants to be off the waiting list and go back to a normal life.
sure, that's the ticket, I just know it.
pete
Paul McLeod Hé Pete, je ne voulais pas votre tension artérielle trop élevée, j'espère que vous pouvez le contrôle ... Read more
Paul McLeod Hé Pete, je ne voulais pas votre tension artérielle trop élevée, j'espère que vous pouvez le contrôler. Je suis désolé si je l'a déclenchée.
On March 26, 2011...
Hey Paul,
ha ha , these surgeons guys cannot be fooled - a little swelling of the feet doesn't impresse them. cardiology is a very accurate science...
The doc says to me, 'your electro' looks very steady everytime I see you; you can't be that sick'; so I says, 'Sure, you always see me on Monday morning, so I'm rested, and it's only been a few hours since takin the meds'
pour les belles filles - c'est vrai il y en a pas beaucoup, il faut utiliser beaucoup d'imagination et un 'time machine'. :.))
pete
Paul McLeod Est-il possible de consulter votre médecin à un autre moment?
J'ai dit à la dame du bureau d'aide à ... Read more
Paul McLeod Est-il possible de consulter votre médecin à un autre moment?
J'ai dit à la dame du bureau d'aide à la St B que lorsque le médecin parle, c'est comme si Dieu lui-même a parlé, alors quel était le point de les tenir informés sur la façon dont je fais? Ils écouteront peut-être à 911. Maintenant, regardez votre pression artérielle!
Je vais prier pour cela, et votre voyage à la chirurgie en temps opportun.
A la prochaine,
Paul
On March 26, 2011...
Hi Paul,
Join the no energy club! It's not fun. I know that. I'm down to doing practically nothing, otherwise, I too pay the price. And since I do not want to damage my heart, I've curtailied just about everything. Even going out for a half hour car ride wipes me out. showering tires me. I'm just sitting around waiting and passing the time until April 21st. I hope you hear about your surgery date soon. Any news on that?
Ruth Howell
Paul McLeod Yeah, it's a total bummer. For a stubborn scot like myself it's even worse. I have to scare myself re ... Read more
Paul McLeod Yeah, it's a total bummer. For a stubborn scot like myself it's even worse. I have to scare myself really bad before i get it.
I have hurt my left ventricle so many times it's a wonder i'm still alive. But what amazes me is in a week or so it's heals itself and then i'm smarter till the next time. God and people praying are keeping me alive, but i am learning, slowly.
Sitting around waiting or doing nothing does me in holisitically. I get depressed easily, but getting out of the house usually helps big time.
Mostly i miss being able to visit with my friends, actually that is the biggest part of keeping healthy, the holistic part overshadows the physical part to some degree.
I do have close friend from work who understands, his wife had a heart transplant 12 years ago and passed away just before christmas.
Yes, but in Canada you get a "window", not a specific date. If you're waiting until April 21st you're as good as there. For me, the window is somewhere around the middle of June to sometime in July. They call me a week before,
Thanks for thinking of me; I wish you all the best and send you my thots and prayers.
Paul m
On March 26, 2011...
Bonjour Paul,
Je perd un peu d'interêt pour ce site, sauf quand il y a de nouvelles jolies demoiselles qui s'affiche. :"))
QUAND, OÙ ET COMMENT DE NOUVELLES JOLIES FILLES APPARAISSENT-ELLES?
IL EST BON QUE VOTRE ETAT EST STABLE, MAIS QU'EN EST-IL DE VOS SYMPTOMES, COMBIEN DE TEMPS AVANT D'ETRE ADRESSE?
POURQUOI SONT-ILS TOUJOURS JOUER AVEC VOTRE ESPRIT QUAND IL S'AGIT DE GENS QUI NE VONT PAS MOURIR TOUT DE SUITE? DITES-LEUR VOS CHEVILLES SONT UN GONFLEMENT OU QUELQUE CHOSE COMME ÇA!
JE VOUS DONNE MON SOUTIEN ET MES PRIERES, MON BON AMI.
JUSQU'A LA PROCHAINE FOIS.
THUMPER A PINCE
PAUL
On March 19, 2011...
Hello Paul,
No, I'm not from Florida. I'm from Maine. Anyway, you sound like you're doing pretty well. As for supplements, I just don't have the energy to pursue that discussion. You make some good points, but I'm sticking with what I'm told to do. And you will do what you feel is best for you.
I'm just trying to get things ready for our trip to Cleveland, but it's not going too well because I can't do much. Tried cleaning one of the bathrooms this morning and wound up exhasted in bed. This makes me so freaking angry. I've got a pile of personal paper work on my desk that I must tend to before Cleveland and I just can't seem to get around to it. I hear people saying that all this fatigue and shortness of breath gets better after surgery. I sure hope so! Stay well.
Ruth
Paul McLeod love ya Ruth....I just got back from visiting my Dad....was gone for 4 hrs and I'm home gassed....my ... Read more
Paul McLeod love ya Ruth....I just got back from visiting my Dad....was gone for 4 hrs and I'm home gassed....my wife thinks I don't want to talk to her....but she know's I'm just needing an hour to crash and I'll be better....visiting just doesn me in....always short of btreath and trying to talk....
On March 18, 2011...
Hey Paul, Cole gave me your site so I can read up on you! I am keeping you and the wife in my prayers. :)
Naomi
Paul McLeod Thaaat is VERY sweet of you....Eleanore misses you horribly (well terribly)...I'm hoping for surgery ... Read more
Paul McLeod Thaaat is VERY sweet of you....Eleanore misses you horribly (well terribly)...I'm hoping for surgery in early June but nothing is for sure....say Hi to everybody (if there's any left) but there’s your mom and dad and I hear good news about Kelly....we are praying for Cole and Deb as they plan their big day or has it come and gone already? We talk to Grant often and keep them in our prayers daily.
This was just AWESOME hearing from you. Eleanore will be so excited. Do you still have the same cell number? We went to Grand Forks for one of my nephew’s hockey games and being "back home" was such a tonic that I felt completely better for one day. Really. We hitch up with Jackie from time to time on facebook.
We are grandparents now as you probably know as well. He is the light of our lives next to the THE Light and the Life.
When we get mobile again we’re gonna hunt you down, along with as many other’s as we can find. We left a huge part of our hearts in St Cloud, and just can’t wait to get going again.
Right now I’m pretty much what we call an out patient in my own home. But it’s a journey of the heart, you know what I mean.
I’ll bet you career is awesomely successful and that you’ll be VP pretty soon. Your work ethic is SCARY!. I could run on here for a loooooog time, but give our love to your mom and dad.
You know I come from a cross breed family, border town syndrome they call it. Three of my siblings are dual citizens and I got a 51 stars and 13 stripe grandson. Beth (our daughter) calls him their “anchor child” LOL, plus 2 uncles, a sister, and an awwwwwnt living in the US. After that I lose count, oh…3 nephews that are cross breeds too I think and 7 cousins. When we have famiy reunions it's always the USA vs Canada!
We haven’t given up our dream, but it has to be in His time and His way. Thanks for making our day!! Coffee at Starbucks?
WILL meet again, somewhere, sometime. God Bless.
Paul
On March 17, 2011...
Sang that great song while boating on the Sea of Galilee two weeks ago! Peter, Paul and Mary wasn't it? (Biblical names and all)
Ottawa
On March 17, 2011...
hey Paul I'm at gripper #2 - that's considered uncommon strength for a stringbean - when I was working out at the gym, the heavy lifters were amazed that I could hold heavy bells with such ease - I told them it was just natural strength. :.))
as far as supplements go, Paul, the blue pills are not yet considered supplements by the medical establishment.
:.))
regards,
pete
Paul McLeod Hey Pete.....i grew up on the farm....milkin' cows the old fashioned way....i had fingers and arms li ... Read more
Paul McLeod Hey Pete.....i grew up on the farm....milkin' cows the old fashioned way....i had fingers and arms like cobalt steel....at school those days we had to make our own entertainment....uncluding Roman knuckle fighting....there was no one could take me down....and it was a draw between me at 5 ft 3 150 lbs and the 6 ft 3 200 lb heavtweight...a dead draw....
....as for the pills...i'm confused... thought they had certified the blue ones and condemned the grey ones....something to do with front effects...or was it back effects...
thumper to gripper, clear
over and out
On March 16, 2011...
hey Paul
I've decided to ditch the atheist stuff. If I survive the surgery then maybe I'll pick it up again :.))
by the way Paul, I'm a grip enthusiast. Grip work brings you closer to the Ultimate - uh, gripper,
Paul McLeod Hey Pete...go for it man....I'm backin' ya all the way. I like the iron mind part.
Paul the thumper to Pete the gripper
Clear
Over and Out
that cracks me up!!
On March 16, 2011...
Paul,
You're a nice guy and I applaud you for being your own medical advocate, but I cannot disagree with you more about wanting to take your supplements. This situaiton has been well studied and I believe you are putting yourself at risk to take anything your doctors tell you to avoid. The doctos at the Cleveland Clinic also gave me a long list of over the counter medications and prescription meds that I cannot take for several weeks prior to my surgery. Just to be sure, I've already stopped taking all my vitamins, etc.
Please don't put yourself at risk, regardless of what you think about your supplements. Why are people so stubborn about this kind of stuff? You've got bigger fish to fry, Paul.
Ruth Howell
Paul McLeod Hey Ruth, well spoken, and I thank you for your concern and advice. May I make a few points on what y ... Read more
Paul McLeod Hey Ruth, well spoken, and I thank you for your concern and advice. May I make a few points on what you have offered?
Firstly, I am a student of the game. Since 1988 I have been my own health enthusiast. I have been on a regimen of supplements for the last however many years, and in some ways I concur with your advice as given by your own advisors, but in multiple ways I differ. If it means anything, I am a Mathematics and Physics Graduate from U of Manitoba
.
May I explain further?
Firstly, there are some key glitches in the information that is the official “line” if you want for every medical institution. The key motivator (sorry to say this) is what makes life easiest for them, and sorry to say this also, patient safety if their “media line”. I will expound on this further (and by the way I have dropped all my meds except two).
So to err on the side of “safety” in many cases the baby has been thrown out with the bath water in the administrative protocol. It’s all about risk management. Just to diverge her for a moment, there are very valid statistics out there (very secret mind you) of people who have expired while having basic surgical procedures for reasons that had nothing to do with why they were in the hospital to begin with.
This is due to the fact that the hospital is a veritable melting pot for every virus, bacteria, and bug literally on the planet, and in much higher than average concentrations. Some stats out there indicate horrifying numbers; one such investigation came up with the conclusion that as many as one in a hundred people never leave the hospital for reasons having nothing to do with why they were there.
And just on that point, when I went for my pre op every second staffer was hacking and coughing and sneezing or whatever. The first thing I asked for was a surgical mask, and I was given one. The EKG guy told me that was a smart move.
On to my next point. The stats on “negative interactions” with surgical drugs and residue from Vitamin intake are very likely much lower than dangers posed by the hospital environment itself. No wonder every doctor has a multi million dollar insurance policy against malpractice lawsuits.
So again, where the “system” has control, they tend to compensate by going overboard, as in the “ban” on all this or that supplements/prescription drugs, etc.
If you’re a student of the game you know this stuff. Let me refer to a couple of blogs to make my point, the first one consists of “in house” arguing, if you will, health care professional against health care professional. You can peruse it at
Now if you go to the Mayo clinic site, they say that Vitamin therapy is “inconclusive” as to assisting in surgical readiness as well as post op recovery.
I’ve run on long enough here. It’s not a case of being stubborn, it’s about being informed. And the medical community, unfortunately, is a fragmented system, each in their own little world and abiding by their own administrative protocol.
Let's just remember, the system is under Hippocratic oath to due their ultimate as to what’s best for you.
But systems are far from perfect, and that is an huge understatement. So you won’t find me going off Vitamin C any time soon, and I will be lobbying by my family Dr with the system to have some respect for other medical opinions.
And just a little math, if I may. All these supplements have what is called “half lives”, which is the time taken for your body to eliminate half of your original dosage. Fat soluble supplements take much longer that water soluble for your system to eliminate.
Vitamin C for example, the mega immuno booster, has an average half life of 20 – 45 minutes. If you take an average of 30 minutes for the half life, that means if you take 1000mg at 9:00 AM, by 9:30 your system has eliminated half of that amount or 500mg, leaving the other half (500mg) still in your sytem.
By 10:00 AM, the next half hour, half of the 500mg, or 250mg has been eliminated. So in one hour you have a quarter of the original 1000mg still in your system.
If you run that through a 24 hr day, you have essentially 3.55271368/1 000 000 000 000 000 or about 4 quadrillionths of your original dosage of Vitamin C, when is effectively zero, meaning in 24 hours your body has eliminated ALL the Vitamin C from your system.
That’s why some medical experts say it’s impossible to OD on Vitamin C, no matter how much your original dosage; it’s all gone in 24 hrs.
Zinc, on the other hand, being fat soluble, takes 300 plus days to be half eliminated from your system, so if you’ve been taking Zinc for any period of time, you won’t live long enough to rid your system of Zinc prior to op.
I hope you get my point, and I defer to others out there to confirm or deny my data. If Math/Science isn’t your forte, you’ll just have to go by what you get from the blogs out there, see your family doctor, and then together lobby for what, based on the solid information and medical support, advice and evidence, is best for you.
I think we tend to underestimate our lobbying power as patients. It’s our life!
Sorry I’ve gotten on my stump here, and hope it might be informative and helpful. If it hasn’t, well, you’ll have to write me off as a quack.
Love ya
Paul
On March 15, 2011...
Gene is buried in my Grandmothers church's cemetery, about 10 minutes east of Charlottetown. Famous for writing "Snowbird", he used to pick me up often as a 15 year old hitch hiker. He was a kind man but his soul was plagued by depression. Even with writing "Put your Hand in the Hand" and knowing the lord, Gene ultimately committed suicide at age 56. He is very much missed here on our small Island. I am proud to have played many of his songs over the years. From Elvis to Anne Murray, his songs were in strong demand as he was an internationally known singer/songwriter.
The band "Ocean" recorded Gene's "Put your Hand in the Hand" and made it famous.
Thanks for a walk down memory lane Paul. Keep smiling!
Darren the musician on PEI
Paul McLeod Thanks "double bro", hey "they looked unto Him and were Radiant". The Man has a Plan, we goota decrea ... Read more
Paul McLeod Thanks "double bro", hey "they looked unto Him and were Radiant". The Man has a Plan, we goota decrease so He can increase. Ever heard of David L Roper. He has a downloadable free book called A Man to Match the Mountain. He talks about the guys that got hammered on the anvil, fried in the fire, stoned to the bone, smashed till they were just ash, but they got up in the Newness of the One who created and redeemed them, and wouldn't ya know Jer. 29:11 was (and is being) brought to fulfilment in there lives and ours. Always a pleasure, bro. And a great big hello to brother Pete if you're out there.
Just curious Darren, what's your instrument. I used to be pretty mean on 12 string folk, got all the top 100 hits from the late 60's and 70's but I'm a Gaither guy at heart. Been to their concerts and I've never left the same. Wouldn't you know last summer they were in Winnipeg on May 10th but I couldn't make it so I caught them in Minneapolis in the 17th. Sometimes things work out, oops, correction, Romans 8:28 on that one.
On March 14, 2011...
I have a brother-in-law born&raised in Winnipeg -nice guy too.
pete
Paul McLeod that makes 2 nice people from Winnipeg....not bad...good to hear you're still on the channel pete... ... Read more
Paul McLeod that makes 2 nice people from Winnipeg....not bad...good to hear you're still on the channel pete...
paul
On March 14, 2011...
hurry up and wait is it, or not? -any approx date set?
pete
Paul McLeod not a chance...it's the Mexican taxi all the way....buenos dias hombre
On March 14, 2011...
Hi Paul
I'm sending good wishes for a speedy surgery date and great recovery. Hopefully you will soon feel like a new person.
Be Blessed
Vickie
Paul McLeod Wow, my guestbook is cookin' with "all the best" comments. Thanks and I am blessed. Got half the plan ... Read more
Paul McLeod Wow, my guestbook is cookin' with "all the best" comments. Thanks and I am blessed. Got half the planet prayin' for us. I've literally hung my life and outcome on Him and the promises. I have little or no faith in man or any health system, when I go in for surg I'm putting my life in His hands. Thanks again for your thoughtfulness.
On March 14, 2011...
Hi Paul,
Hope you hear about your surgery date very soon. I also have ridiculous fatigue so I totally understand how you're feeling. Guess we just have to sit back, do nothing and wait. Hang in there.
Ruth Howell
On March 13, 2011...
Hi Paul,
Hope those nurses don't get some revenge on you in the operating theatre! You have to be careful who you yank on!
Looks like I may beat you to the knife. Latest word is likely a date with destiny late this month.
If Pete can pray for you, so will I. Read Matthew 6 versus 25-34.
Your friend Darren
Paul McLeod Thanks Darren....very refreshing to "connect" in this resonating way. We've been hanging onto Mark11: ... Read more
Paul McLeod Thanks Darren....very refreshing to "connect" in this resonating way. We've been hanging onto Mark11:22, 23.
Check out Montgomery NT.
Nice to know Someone's bigger than our mountains.
On March 12, 2011...
hey Paul,
nice to see you in such good spirits - keep it up and good luck with the surgery - I won't be posting as much, I'm not feeling so good and am worried I might get angry at my cardiologist in a couple of weeks - he's, well, better not say anything...it's a small world.
your friend,
pete
Paul McLeod Hey Pete, I dare say if we took a vote it would be unanimous that you would be sorely missed, backwar ... Read more
Paul McLeod Hey Pete, I dare say if we took a vote it would be unanimous that you would be sorely missed, backward writing and all (even though it;s SW), so please don't go off the channel completely.
On March 10, 2011...
Hi Paul,
Glad you made it through that maze of nonsense. I am in utter shock about how things work in Canada. While there's not a lot to be proud of these days in our country, I'm at least glad that the Canadian form of medical care is not here . . . . yet . . . . and if my vote counts, Obamanation will be over in another year.
I cannot imagine having to deal with medical professionals who behave that way. If I had to go through that stuff I'm sure they would have to take me away in a white jacket with my hands tied behind my back.
I'm sorry for the disgraceful and insensitive behavior you've had to endure. No one should have to put up with that type of treatment when they're facing heart surgery - or any time for that matter.
Let's hope you get your surgery scheduled soon and get it all over with so this becomes a distant memory.
My best wishes to you,
Ruth Howell
Paul McLeod You are the sweet, caring, and gracious person that I said you were. Thanks for your kindness and con ... Read more
Paul McLeod You are the sweet, caring, and gracious person that I said you were. Thanks for your kindness and consideration.
Paul the theist
On March 9, 2011...
Time sure marches along...we are thinking of you often these days and are hoping your tomorrow is bright and full of good news!
Peace and many blessings,
Tim and Sigrid
On March 6, 2011...
Hi Paul,
Looks like things are rolling for you. I myself had quite a week as you may have read. Looks like we are both going to be recovering about the same time. I wish you every success and an awesome recovery! Please keep us in the loop!
Your friend,
Darren
On March 5, 2011...
Hi again Paul,
Thanks for the history. I have little, if any, knowledge about these types of things. We are not originally from Maine. I'm from New Hope, PA. We retired here about 10 years ago, then moved to Mexico for a few years and back here 4 yrs. ago. We're about 3 hours from the Canadian border (a bit south of Bar Harbor).
I just read your story and it's really interesting because the progression you described is exactly what happened to me. I've always been very fit, not overweight and very physically active and strong. About 8 yrs. ago I started experiencing symptoms after long days of gardening. Like you, I was fine during the work; heavy lifting, digging, etc. But I would come in the house and crash with debilitating fatigue, etc. First I blamed it on menopause, but then it lasted too long. Each year the symptoms got worse and worse and I could no longer do heavy lifting and developed shortness of breath. The doctors in Maine said I had fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. No mention about the heart, although they KNEW I had a prolapsed valve. I have been really bad for the past two years and this past year unable to do anything. I happened to go to the doctors and saw one of the P.A.s complaining of nausea. When he listened to my heart he nearly fainted and sent me right out for a new echo. He could figure this out, but by highly qualified doctor never paid attention to my heart. "It's anxiety" she said. Turned out that my valve had gone from mild to severe and I will be having surgery on April 21 at the Cleveland Clinic.
When I look back at all the years doctors told me it was anxiety, chronic fatigue, etc. I get very angry and I have lost confidence in my doctor at this point (my internist). I have discussed the situation with her and she admits that she was totally at fault. Right after that she "forgot" that I was due for a mammogram. When I reminded her she said she figured I could have it right after my heart surgery. What was she thinking???? A sternotomy and then a mammorgram - which would pull on the breast and cause sternum pain. "Oh, yes, you're right," she said. Time for a new internist.
Well I wish us both a great outcome and speedy recoveries so we can get back to being the people we want to be. I, for one, plan on doing a lot of sailing this summer. So I'm hoping the recovery period won't be too bad.
My best to you.
Ruth Howell
Brooklin, Maine
On March 5, 2011...
Hi Paul,
About being put to sleep: I have had a few major surgeries and have been anesthetized on those occasions. I have never had a problem. I must say that it's a rather pleasant experience. The anesthesiologist injects a sedative into your IV. You are not even aware this is being done unless he/she tells you. During my surgery in Mexico my anesthesiologist said, "OK, Ruth. It's margarita time." Once this is done you quickly fall asleep. The next thing you know you are waking up in the recovery room or ICU and wondering "when is the surgery going to start?" Then a nurse or doctor tells you you're surgery is all over and you just can't believe it because it seems like only minutes have passed since you fell asleep. My surgery in Mexico took 4.5 hours, but to me it seemed like 5 mintues.
I have always discussed with my anesthesiologists that I don't want to wake up nauseous or vomiting so they put something in my IV to prevent this and it has always worked well.
Hope that helps.
Ruth Howell
Maine
Paul McLeod How nice of you to respond Ruth, all the way from Maine. Apparently there is a town down east once sh ... Read more
Paul McLeod How nice of you to respond Ruth, all the way from Maine. Apparently there is a town down east once shared by Maine and New Brunswick called Fort Fairfield.
Historically speaking, boundary issues have always been very sensitive in the formative stages of nation building, this as well was the case back in the late 1830's to early '40's.
During this era the border dispute between them escalated to the degree where settlement looked likely to be achieved by the Arastook War, which turned out to be a cold war with no shots fired or military casualties
This in no small measure thanks to President Martin Van Buren sending Brigadier General Winfield Scott, who’s yeoman diplomacy culminated in the working out of a compromise. The compromise created a neutral area, and the controversy gradually diminished.
To this day the Arastook Town and Country Club straddles the border. Sorry, I’m off topic here, but I am a bit of a history buff. Thanks for your encouragement and insights regarding the journey of the heart.
On March 1, 2011...
Hi Paul,
So good to hear from you! You and Eleanore have been on my mind recently; wondering what was going on in your lives. Now I know! Congratulations on becoming grandparents. Isn't it just the grandest? He looks adorable! Grandchildren are definitely "the crowning glory"! Wish you all the best for your upcoming surgery. Will pray for complete healing and an amazing speedy recovery. Hi to Eleanore.
Blessings,
Jeanne
Paul McLeod Jeanne, your comments bring the words of the old song back to me.
Paul McLeod Jeanne, your comments bring the words of the old song back to me.
Sing them over again to me,
Wonderful words of Life!
It will be great to see you if you come here in the summer, hoping I'm fixed up, and out and about by then!
You are forever friends, and all our love to Rudy
On February 23, 2011...
Hi Paul,
It was really nice chatting with you the othr day. You are absolutely right, it's amazing how we can pick up where we left off. There is no question that Jimmy, Jerry and Ned together formed a critical mass that is both exhilerating and "dangerous".!! But all is good and Jimmy and Jerry wish you, Ned all the best. Sounds like you are in great hands with the medical care you are receiving and will receive in the next few months. Thank you for the kind comments. Will be in touch soon. Randy
On February 21, 2011...
Good to here you had a great time at the restaurant the other day. Sounds like it was theriputic. Ya, We felt a little ripped to have to drop out, but looking forward to the next. Praying for the two of you.
J&L
Paul McLeod Thanks a lot. It wasn't the same without you guys there, that is a certainty. We are praying for Jim ... Read more
Paul McLeod Thanks a lot. It wasn't the same without you guys there, that is a certainty. We are praying for Jim and believe that he wil be raised off what sounded pretty close to his deathbed LOL.
On February 21, 2011...
yes, the Valentine diner was so much fun! I am already looking forward to the post-op occasion! I am not looking forward to the actual surgery or rather, the aftermath. Oh well, we'll get through it.
For now, we'll "keep calm and carry on"!
Love, El
Paul McLeod Well, you were never eally good in "math".
Hahaha
Your other half
On February 20, 2011...
Thanks for the very kind words Paul.
It is a privilege and honor to be part of your heart valve surgery experience.
Keep on tickin!
Adam Pick, HVJ Founder
On February 18, 2011...
ALL I CAN SAY IS HALLELUJAH!!!!!!!
Paul McLeod they're gonna get after us for turning this channel into an evangeklistic outreach....well praise God ... Read more
Paul McLeod they're gonna get after us for turning this channel into an evangeklistic outreach....well praise God anyway
On February 18, 2011...
Paul:
I'm glad you've got a date with the anesthesiologist (did I spell that right?) since I doubt they'd have you do that unless they were pushing you forward for surgery.
I do find it odd, though since here you don't meet the anesthesiologist until just before the surgery, but they do have you spend almost a whole day at the pre-surgery hospital visit meeting the department nurses, getting all sorts of blood tests and wrist bands, going through orientation and training about how to get out of bed after the surgery using the heart pillow, and all sorts of other useful stuff. But not the anesthesiologist! Odd the differences in the system, isn't it?
Prayers and fingers crossed for you.
Terry C in Florida who's been there done that
Paul McLeod Hi Terry....as far as I know I meet the whole team for several hours of which the aneasthetist or wha ... Read more
Paul McLeod Hi Terry....as far as I know I meet the whole team for several hours of which the aneasthetist or whatever is just one, but apparently the first one or something to that effect.
Neat to have this response option, eh?
....I mean huh?
On February 18, 2011...
good for you Paul,
but with that big chest of yours, they may have to bring out the fullsize chainsaw to pry you open - just joking, in a no joking situation ;.)
rock on
the atheist- who will be praying for you, just because he likes you. :.))
On February 17, 2011...
That's good news, Paul! I am praying for you!
Tim K.
On February 16, 2011...
hey Paul,
Are going to operated at the Montreal Heart Institute?
Your latest message reminds me of my situation.
pete
On February 14, 2011...
Paul~~~so glad you are being blessed with peace throughout this rollie coaster ride. It is often so very difficult in such circumstances to come to a place of surrender. I have a quote on my computer desk that simply reads "EVERYTHING IS UNFOLDING
..........AS IT SHOULD........!!!"
I'm standing with you, and making this confession as it relates to you in every moment when I'm reminded. It's nice that you write frequent updates, cause it gives us all reminders to keep you in our thoughts and prayers. On your ROOTING team. Ant Helen.
On February 12, 2011...
Loved your photos. Glad you're hanging in there.
Terry C.
How you holding up?
Cal and I just got inyo Calgary. 24 days at this and I think its time to think a of heading back. Cal and I will return Friday May 13th pm sometime.
The money is good, but my body has a few more squeeks in it.
Looking forward to catching up with you. Is there anything I can get you from Calgary?
Let me know.
Jim