Because the world is filled with wonderous things to see, I had eye surgery last week. The goal was to relieve the pressure caused by glaucoma and prevent me from losing vision. I had a little pity party for myself when I found out I had to have this procedure done. I let the party go on for a while, then I reminded myself how lucky I am to live in a time where medical assistance is available for problems like mine and how grateful I am to have insurance to cover the exorbitant expense. My attitude change firmly in place, I embarked on the experience.
I don't know about you, but medical procedures involving the eyes makes me feel squeamish. I didn't want to know too much about what the operation entailed; I just trusted the specialist to do his thing and do it well. I have had two previous, less invasive surgeries by this same doctor, which helped some but not enough. So, I sort of knew what to expect, except this time the anesthesia didn't work quite as well as normal, "In a small percentage of patients, this nerve block is not fully effective," the nurse aesthesis quipped as I indicated, over and over, that I could feel what the doctor was doing. And it didn't feel pleasant. As he placed the last suture, he said, "Man, are you sensitive. I've given you 10 times the amount of medication I give patients, and you can still feel it." This was not a contest I wanted to be involved in.
But I have a TEAM. Chris took two days off so he could drive me to and from Portland (2 hours each way) for the surgery and the post-op check-up the next day. And, because I think good ice cream is the antidote to all bad things, he researched and found that Fielders Choice, one of my favorite ice cream stands, was newly open for the season Thursday-Sunday, not far from where we needed to pass to drive home. A coffee Health bar cone tasted awfully good after my harrowing time. He also has been cheerfully doing all the animal chores for me since I am on light duty, not able to bend over or lift more than 10 pounds for a few weeks while I heal.
Sister Deb put her own plans on hold and drove to Maine to help Rachel with the Owlet. In between reading baby books, playing with toys, cuddling, laughing, and chasing the little one, she cooked, did dishes, let dogs in and out a thousand times, and waited on me hand and foot.
Rachel took over all the grooming work and washed and groomed my own two dogs so I would have pleasant cuddle companions as I rested. I made a bold effort to help her groom on Saturday, putting on my work clothes and showing up. I lasted two hours before I hit the sofa and took a nap.
Friends have offered to help, too, and neighbors have checked in. I feel grateful and supported by the people in my life who make tough times easier. The world is filled with wonderful things, and amazing people, and I am thankful.
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