Thomas's Posts

Hi Thomas. Your feelings are valid. My advice would be to try to focus on the positive...you are in good hands; you are going to feel much better; and the odds are in your favor. Also, when I was feeling overwhelmed, I would get on YouTube and watch documentaries , of all things, about JFK assassination. It worked by getting me to think about something else. God bless you.

Take deep breaths, we've all been there in the scary waiting room, plan any calming activities in the next days - I took myself to the beach a week before my surgery, journal, listen to music, anything that can help relieve the anxiety. I focused on trust in my surgeon as I meditated. I didn't find this forum until after my surgery. Wishing you calmness, strength and peace as you wait.

Thomas - feel free to email me at: michaeldtirrell@yahoo.com. If you want to talk over the phone, I would be happy to do so as well. I understand the anxiety. I tried to combat it with research and preparation. Take comfort in the knowledge that while this is not a walk in the park, you will come through it better off. Best wishes, looking forward to your "I made it!" post after surgery.

"Beyond overwhelmed" is certainly something I can relate to. Most of us on this board can. One of the things that helped me the most was focusing my mind on what was within my control, and accepting what was not. That second part was the hardest for me. Once they wheel you in for surgery, you just have to trust you team. It looks like you picked a great surgeon and you can take comfort in that. Be thinking about what you will do afterwards. For example, using the spirometer, taking those difficult (but needed) short walks up and down the halls, eating your meals, taking your meds, etc. Also, think about what you want to do after you are recovered. What goals do you have with this second chance of life you are given? Best of luck to you!