Medical Issues/Recovery – Page 4

A Reluctant Change In Plans

For those interested in my journey after being struck by lightning, it is time for an update. Some major changes have occurred, and I want to share with you what that means for some life plans.

There is a lot of good news and I prefer to start with it. First up, my heart continues to do miraculously well. I met with the cardiologist last week (I think) and things are still going very, very well. While there are still some issues (BP and such), the heart itself is amazingly healthy. Which is interesting since last spring things weren’t looking so good as there was a thought I might have to have more surgery. However, not all that long after my Baptism into the Orthodox Church, the new cardiologist (who I like and trust) ran tests that showed pretty much complete healing. So much so he wants me to join a gym and start hitting some weights. I like the idea as walking only gets you so far. Puns intended.

Last fall, I met with a new neurologist to run a series of tests as at that point the brain was supposed to be healed as much as it was going to heal. Time to see what we could see and if any trend lines could be spotted. We’ve done the MRI and one phase of testing; sadly, the rest of the testing can’t be done until June (which is a story for another day).

Tied into that, last fall if you are a regular you may remember I started having vertigo issues. Unsurprisingly, after the fiasco with the first attempt at testing, we finally did get the tests the ENT wanted run. However, balls were again dropped and I just got the results a couple of weeks ago. The cause was not vestibular, as pretty much all of us expected, but neurological. The ENT thinks that it is a result of the brain continuing to rewire itself.

Continuing to rewire itself. More than three years after the lightning strike. To make it even more interesting, not all of that rewiring appears (to me) to be related to the lightning strike. Short version is that my noggin has been injured three different times. Not going to get into the other two, but where I am seeing a lot of change relates to that very first time many years ago. All I can say is I am grateful and looking forward to seeing what happens/how far it goes.

For now, routines, notes, and other bits of help work and for the most part work well. I’m sure not going to complain, as I know people who’ve pretty much had to start over after being hit. Me, I’ve had to relearn how to read music and sing, which is nothing in comparison. It does make me wonder about the poor guy on video who got hit three times in less than five minutes. There are still gaps in my memories, but every now and then something triggers a cascade that restores some of them. I don’t need a keeper, yet, but having someone around might not be a bad idea. More on that in a minute. For now, what I see as ongoing are the brain farts and some issues with time perception. An example of the latter is thinking it’s been two weeks since I talked with someone when it’s really been a year or more.

Oh, there’s more but that’s life. I should also add on the good news front that the vertigo has mitigated a good bit.

As I think I mentioned before, the other bit of good news is that after a long process, I was granted disability. Honestly, I have some mixed emotions but it is for the best. Now making that interesting was finding out that I was being moved from my previous medical insurance over onto Medicare and Medicaid. A bit more of an adventure than I cared for, but it is done.

Yet, it is not done. As all this was going on, I was told that my premium would be covered, as would the cost of a full-up plan. There are some other little bits, but as long as I stay in Indiana that is covered tax free. Given that my disability payment isn’t much, this is huge. It also allows me to keep my core care team, which is very important to me. Especially since we may still be working recovery issues much longer than planned (for which I do give thanks).

Turning from matters physical to matters spiritual, as long-time readers know, I found a new Church home last year. Well, I found it the year before but formally joined last year. It has been an amazing and wonderful experience. I’ve even gotten to take some “courses” on the Church Fathers and other topics, which I’ve very much enjoyed. I also became a Chanter and there is a possibility that I might even be tonsured so I can serve as a reader and altar server. We will see.

I’ve also been blessed with getting to know some wonderful people. Our music director has been working with me on re-learning music and singing, agreeing that it was good therapy for me. Things are improving and I’m even starting to look for options for some voice coaching for the singing. With all the health issues of late, not being doing as much with the guitar as I would like but hope to change that soon as well. There are others as well, too many to list, who are helping me in my journey.

For all that my particular Church is known for sending members forth, I would like to stay there for a while. I’ve got lots to learn and they are quite gracious about working with me and my limits — and helping me push them at need. And that doesn’t even touch some of the friendships. I’m lousy at those, but who knows…

I know I’ve said before I had accepted that I couldn’t go off on my own and live the hermit life, but the last few weeks have driven that home to me with a vengance. Almost like someone is trying to pound it through my thick skull. I’ve finally accepted that not only do I need people nearby, but I also need people that can and will check in on me.

All this forces me to accept that I can’t move out West this year, or probably any time soon. Which on one level is a shame since this winter has reminded me of every reason I want to do it. I’m also having to accept that I need to stay in Indianapolis for now. I’m also realizing that I need to get a place of my own (or at least with my own kitchen) as my current situation is not the right situation for the future.

I’d really like to find a small house, or even a duplex, preferably with a basement. A basement is not only good for storage, but a good place to ride out a thunderstorm at need. Most apartments these days don’t let you have grills and smokers, and I want both. I’ve started looking around, but if anyone out there hears of anything here in Indy, let me know. Provided it doesn’t have barricade bars on the doors — no joke, looked at one house online that had them, told me all I needed to know about the neighborhood. Would love to find something close to the Church, but prices around there have gone up through the roof as the neighborhood has improved.

I will be updating the GiveSendGo here soon, as while I will be moving it will not be out West. At least not yet. It’s funny, and telling, that every time I thought there was a chance, something happened to prevent it. I can’t be sad though, as each has brought both physical and spiritual healing. What the future holds I do not know, but I continue to have Faith that I will be shown the path.

Thank you for being a part of this journey, and for all your help and encouragement these last 3.5 years. Your prayers and generosity have helped me get this far, and recover far more than I really expected. Thank you.

More to come…

Whew

I had planned to get another post up today, but had to head out this morning to an appointment. From there, I did a bit of grocery shopping in an area where the sidewalks were at least semi-clear, as they are not cleared in most of Indy from what I can tell. Makes walking, much less getting my bus-compliant grocery cart around. One errand turned into about three, and there was much walking in the snow. Also, I had to clear a path through the snow down the driveway and to the garage for myself and the grocery cart.

And it has wiped me out. The cough from the URI is still not completely gone, and hopefully the gut is returning to normal. I might not should have pushed as much as I did, but we have more snow forecast for tomorrow and Sunday. Joy. So, I’m stiff, sore, and sleepy already.

So no boom, er, post today. There will be a post tomorrow. There is always a post tomorrow. Sorry, couldn’t resist abusing that quote.

More soon. Be prepared and keep your family and friends close, and your things where you can find them in the dark.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, which include moving once we have medical issues cleared up, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Sorry For The Silence

Long story short: I’ve been battling a URI that has bounced back, and a gut bug on top of that. My chest muscles actually hurt from the coughing, despite the cough medicine. Been dealing with low-grade (degree or two) of fever and chills, but this time it seems to really (maybe) have broken. I generally don’t get URIs, but this thing seems to be related to what I had more than a month ago that never fully went away.

As for the gut bug, I thought food poisoning at first, but presentation wasn’t right and found out that there is a bug going around that fits the bill. Joy. Both at once was a bit much. Trying to take care of myself, plan to rest a lot this week. More soon as there is a LOT going on.

Posting Delayed

There are things to discuss, from Russia to thoughts on stocking OTCs in emergency kits. Unfortunately, I woke up to the room spinning and dancing in ways I haven’t seen since one unfortunate morning back in my undergraduate days.

The vertigo seems driven by my right ear, and this morning I realized my right sinuses were not clear and the right ear has pressure. Explains the unusual vertigo, which made doing morning prayers a bit of a challenge. Afraid my bows and such were very slight and careful today. Upping the vitamin C, have started taking my carefully horded decongestant, and annoyed I can’t find the emergency bottle of Afrin. Thinking lots of water and hot tea a good thing today too.

Hope to get a post or two up later. I also have to assemble my new grocery cart (thank you to those hitting the tip jar!) as the upgrade is needed. New cart lacks four-wheel drive, but the front wheels swivel which means I don’t have to pop wheelies to steer and it holds almost twice the weight of my current cart. Which means in reality I can handle a third again the weight of my current cart without damaging the cart. It also has a liner to prevent things from falling out.

Did I mention that the new cart (and old until I sell it) have a place in my bugout plan? Yep, if I have to leave by shanks mare or other transport, I plan to use the cart as well as ruck, etc. Already have an idea of how to attach it to a bike at need. The more modes you have for each step, the better. It’s not huge, but you might be amazed at how much you can get in, including large containers of water.

More soon I hope.

About That Vertigo Testing

Since I complained about the situation here before, wanted to follow-up on the rescheduled testing. As I complained before, when I got down to the Balance/Whisper Hearing Center for the testing, the tester had to leave (sick) and no one else had bothered to show up for work on the Balance side. The people on the Whisper side had no way to assist me as they are separate though in the same office.

I was not impressed at all. What business, especially a medical business, does not have anyone (much less a manager) on call for emergencies? Sort of think not having your people show up and the one who does got sick qualifies for a call and getting someone in to cover things.

The next week, when someone was there and did call me back, the person sounded young and was VERY snippy and full of attitude. I just wanted the testing done as we need the data to figure out what is going on and what to do about it. So, this last Tuesday was the earliest they could get me in and it was made clear to me by Miss Snippy that I should be grateful they could get me in with only a week-plus delay. I resisted suggesting that a business that screwed up should do whatever it takes to fix a problem of their creation and not focus on what is convenient for them.

I really wasn’t sure what to expect when I got back down to the center. To my surprise and delight, an older lady was running the Balance side. Charming, friendly, professional. Found out that she had only been there three days, though she had twenty or so years experience in medical office operations. Seems there had been some changes and I applaud what I saw.

The testing was interesting and I am looking forward to learning what was found. No, the person doing the testing was good, professional, and did not share any results with me. The chair was interesting, and the strangest part was when they ran warm/hot water into each ear as part of the testing. I will say this: some of the things done did indeed make the room swirl, and I had lesser reactions a good bit.

For about five minutes after the testing, I probably looked like I was drunk as I walked. Fast head movements were interesting for a good while after. Nothing too bad, but it did make for an occasionally interesting afternoon.

Since I had complained before, I did want to follow up. Looks like some positive changes for the Balance side of the Balance/Whisper Hearing Center in Greenwood, IN. Testing was professional, polite, and while pleasure is not the word I would use, it was as good as such things can be. Now to hear what the ENT has to say. Onwards.

Happy Thanksgiving!

It is indeed a good day to give thanks, and to enjoy the bounty that fills all our lives. It is an abundance that extends well beyond tasty treats and a full larder for the winter. It is an abundance of good things, from the Giver of Good Things, who showers us with Grace and more.

In my life, there is much for which to give thanks. This last year saw me facing a number of challenges, from mobility to the possibility of more heart surgery. A lack of care in the hospital after my last shoulder replacement taught me new meanings for the word pain and set back my recovery. Note, this was not the doctor’s fault, but rather the conscious choice of one nurse and one technician who stopped all pain medicine and the ice bath cooler for several hours. Not fun. Finances were/are a challenge, transportation became an issue, and there was a need to follow-up on the neuro side of things as well.

I could list much more doom and gloom, but that’s not my way as despite what some may think (*G*), I really don’t share a whole lot of that type of thing. Frankly, it’s boring, it’s private, and it’s not what is important. The focus of life is not the challenges, it is the response to the challenges. Our challenges do not define us; rather, it is our response to them that defines us for who we truly are in life. We can be victim, or we can be a victor. The choice is ours. Bad things sucketh mightier than a 10(-16) torr vacuum. They hurt, literally and figuratively. But, they do not have to define us. Complex topic, maybe more on that later.

Instead, I look at all the ways the bad got stood on its head over this last year. It was about this time last year (bit before) that three different searches pointed me towards my new Church home. I started attending, was made welcome, and at Pascha I was baptized into said Church. Funny thing about that. I almost fell into the baptismal pool because of mobility issues. I haven’t needed my walking stick/cane since.

Not long after that, I finally got the cardiac review I wanted with the cardiologist I really wanted. He ordered some much needed testing, and we both were less than optimistic about a few things. We were both surprised. While I can still screw it up and there are still some issues, the heart muscle itself is 100 percent healed. Other things that have long been problems have started healing as well. Not going to go into all of them, but they include some things that have been an issue since early childhood. Do I still have ailments and infirmities? You bet. But the important stuff is healing or healed.

We are now into a long-overdue neuro review as well, with a neurologist recommended by my new cardiologist. Still one block of testing to go, but the MRI showed that I do have a brain (and not just an empty space with an elderly hamster and a broken exercise wheel in the center), and that there are no tumors, lesions, fractures, or other major issues. Very similar to the MRI I had a couple of months after the lightning strike, but reassuring that things are stable on a physical level for now. The block of testing yet to be done will help define/refine the long- and short-term memory issues and give a better idea about the future. While driving may be an issue, it looks good for me remaining independent and cranky for now.

There are some vertigo issues and the testing yesterday did not take place as scheduled. Working with the ENT doc on that, hearing, and other. Yesterday’s testing had to be cancelled after I had fasted and was at the office as only one person for that operation showed up (the tester) and they left. No one on the other side of the Balance Point/Whisper Hearing Center in Greenwood could access or operate the BP systems. Not impressed at the highly unprofessional operation. That said, we will get the testing done one way or another. I’m thankful we are getting data and making progress, even if annoyed at wasting most of a day. It did lead, however, to having a good time and being introduced to the movie “Christmas with the Kranks” (?) at a decompression stop and my thanks to K for making me laugh.

One thing coming out of all of the various medical tests and such is highlighting the difference between what I want, and what I need. I want to move out West. I want to be rural, to homestead as much as I can, and be that cranky independent old codger that makes people shake their head and laugh. As I’ve noted here before, it appears that I need to be around people more (and perhaps even date!) and moving out West will have to go on hold for at least a year, if not more. My insurance won’t transfer, and while there are rumors my Disability application has finally been approved after three years of effort, things are not yet finalized. Also, while there may be another change or two, my critical doctor team is not something I want to lose. I really like the new cardiologist, have a good to great GP, and am gaining respect for the neurologist. Not something I can just toss aside right now. Today, and every day, I do give thanks for them.

I’m also thankful for my continued growth in Faith and in my Church. I’ve been attending a class or two, have become a Chanter, and there is talk of a bit more as I continue to grow. Being involved with the music there, and the guitar lessons (on hold for right now), has been wonderful (amazing even) therapy for me. One of the weirder things after the lightning strike was having to learn to read music again and how to sing again. I’m slowly finding my voice and getting back into things, and the music seems to be dragging some other things with it. I am thankful for those helping me, including the Church music director and my guitar teacher, both of whom think it is good therapy and more.

Which brings me to one of the most important things for which I give thanks today: YOU! Over these last three years you have encouraged me, offered advice and suggestions, supported me with your gifts and prayers, and encouraged my writing here. Writing here has helped me keep my mind going and to work through cognitive and other challenges. Your gifts and prayers have let me get the guitar and lessons, take care of challenges, have food on the table, and so much more. Thank you.

Updating as I completely left out a paragraph. This year also saw me get into sourdough baking, courtesy of Mrs. Gruel and my new friend Snarksalot! Snarksalot has also gotten me into making mustard, ketchup, and more. The cooking side of the year has been fun, tasty, and opened doors up on several levels. Thank you to Snarksalot and all who pushed that.

Several of you donated recently and I wanted you to know what has been going on with that. Because of your help I was able to restock some much needed supplements. I also not only got some needed new clothes, I was able to take some others in for needed minor repairs. I’ve been able to take my good winter (fur) hat in for cleaning and inspection (probably should have done that years ago). With luck, I may be picking it up tomorrow or Saturday. I was also able to get a propane camping stove for emergency or other use (aren’t early sales wonderful!), and tested it by using it to make a dish I’m taking to the Thanksgiving Dinner I’ve been invited to. Got an odd feeling about this winter, so trying to be sure I’m set for anything. I also picked up food and other supplies. For all of this, I am very thankful. Amazing how far you can make things stretch if you repair and research/shop before buying.

While I may not be able to move out West for now, it appears I will be needing to move here in the next month or so. I’m really wanting to wait until the neuro is finished and I know what, if any, limitations are in place (driving or other). However, that may not be possible as my landlord has done some strange things. I’m thankful that things haven’t gotten too bad (or our of control) and that I do still have a roof over my head.

Oh, on the driving. Nothing major, but it has been noted that I am uncomfortable driving in Indianapolis. No Duh! The drivers in Baghdad were better than most here, and there (at least when I was there) you could return fire heavy if they shot at you – and that’s getting to be a real big issue here. I’m thankful I haven’t had to deal with it much of late.

There is more, of course, for which I am thankful. However, I want you to know that YOU are something for which I am very, very thankful. The great comments, good discussions in the comments, and things that spark well-read posts are a delight and much appreciated. Your suggestions and advice (including on the joint replacement) have been a huge help. Your gifts and prayers have helped keep me going.

Thank you. Back to normal posting soon I hope. Meantime, may your day be bright with joy, love and abundance. May the bounty of this world fill your life, and may the Light shine on you and yours. God Bless!

Still Here

Finally got some antibiotics for the walking pneumonia going around that I managed to catch (without trying even). It is one pill a day, and you can tell when you take it. Didn’t help that I had a bad night last night, turns out I got all my nightly pills out into the bowl and then forgot to take them.

Right now, enjoying watching the show of heads exploding as Trump picks his cabinet. Several solid ones in there, and hoping that Pete gets a good team to back him as SecDef. With good picks on service secs, it should be amazing to watch. Know who I would like to see in a couple of spots, but figure not much chance. Only about two so far I’m not sure about, and am convinced that one is either 6-D chess or 6-D trolling (maybe both).

Hoping to be back up to speed here soon. Until then, resting, drinking lots of fluids, and the usual cures. More soon.

I’m Not Dead Yet!

Sorry for the silence, but life has been interesting. Yes, I am amazed (and delighted) at the election. Disappointed in some of the down-ballot races, as they can be even more important than the national, but shocked, amazed, and pleased that the level of “fortification” has been (mostly) held down so far. Boy Howdy was a message sent.

Sadly, many are putting fingers in ears and kicking their feet, not only on the left but especially on the establishment right. The selection of a new majority leader in the Senate may well be either the last gasp of the establishment Republicans or the rise of the Sith. Only time will tell and it depends on you keeping the heat on where and when it is needed.

And, yes, there was a great disturbance in the Force and a clear message was sent. For all that, there seems to be a LOT of ‘We’re sorry, the number you have dialed is…’ going on. Keep in mind the establishment does not like us, Trump, or anything to do with change. They are going to fight this tooth and nail, though given the turn-out and message, they are likely to be a bit more discrete than last time. Keep in mind, for them this is Gotterdammerung as it is the end of the credentialed elite. This is all they have known, and they are going to fight like cornered rats to keep on with it despite the vote.

Push them. Hold them accountable. Light them up. Let them complain about being bullied. We’ve tried nice, both within the camp and to other parties. Remember that kicks in the teeth were the response. Screw that. Let them build the bridges and make the steps, we need to be done and save the Republic while we can. Hate to say it, but being nice little milquetoast squishes is not the way. Save the Republic, then look at having them mend fences. Me, I’m done. Let them reach out, as our efforts have only hurt us and kept us from being effective.

No, I don’t like any of the three Senate majority leader candidates the swamp has picked. I’m down with the camp calling for JD to be both President of the Senate and Senate Majority Leader. Plenty of Constitutional and historical precedence and it would make things much easier for the administration. Again, forget being nice — be practical and effective.

Right now, I seem to be trying to come down/fight off the walking pneumonia that is going around. Been down several days now. If not better soon, will head to the doc (reluctantly) and see about antibiotics. I’m tired, I’m dragging, and the normal efforts only seem to be calling a draw. Grrrr. On the other hand, I’ve found a Korean place that may have some good ‘cure or kill’ food I like, and may even have a particular dish I’ve loved for years.

As a very broke undergraduate, I fell in love with a place called “Seoul House” in Chicago may decades ago. A delightful older Korean couple owned it and they introduced me to some wonderful food. Think almost a Korean version of “Miracle Max” and Valerie. She told me, rather gleefully one time, that they cooked “American-Korean” and not “Korean-Korean” as when they opened and did the former, “customer never come back.” The mental image of American customers fleeing into the night screaming and breathing flames has amused me ever since. Thankfully, once they got to know you, they would fix you “Korean-Korean.”

They did one dish in particular, a version of Bibem Nengmyun, that I loved. They called the beef “fire meat” and it was. Which paired wonderfully with the cold buckwheat noodles, the spicy-savory sauce, and pickled vegetables. Forget now what they called the dish, but you had almost every pairing possible (sweet-sour, spicy-refreshing, salty-sweet, etc.) in every bite. And at a price even a very broke student could afford every few months. The egg on top just made it.

Before I break down and go to the doc for antibiotics, think I’m going to go try to burn it out. And if their version of my old favorite is as good as I hear, I may get to take a trip down memory lane in the process. Not to mention having a new place to go when I want comfort food.

Yes, celebrate the victory that was the election. Don’t think that those we are trying to show the door are going to just roll over and go quietly. Expect the unexpected, expect resistance (a la what is happening at the Pentagon, EPA, and elsewhere), and expect the unexpected. Frankly, I’m amazed that Trump is still alive and will not be surprised if they try for him again, possibly more than once. Heck, I will be surprised if they don’t. Watch them to go after Elon and others, try to drive wedges, and join with the grifters right and left to try to hang on.

Press on! Make notes, deal with people and issues as needed, but press on! Just remember, cornered rats are nasty and this bunch ain’t done yet. Be prepared.

More soon, but I feel the need for speed, er, a nap to be honest. Be not afraid, but don’t get cocky kid. The fear is theirs, and a lot more masks just dropped and it is clear there are a lot more of us than of them. Press on.

More soon. “Fight, Fight, FIGHT!”

Update 4 Nov 24

Sorry for the lack of posting, but interesting things are afoot. I’m now waiting on the last bit of testing to be approved and scheduled for the neurological consult. For those new here, I was hit by lightning three years ago, and we are doing a new round of testing (with a new neurologist) as the brain is probably as healed as it is going to get. The largest surprise so far is that the MRI does show a brain in place, and not just a big echoey collapsing ancient temple with a tired hamster and busted exercise wheel in the middle of it.

Still no word on disability, but not surprised as I really don’t expect to hear anything for a while yet. Really don’t expect good news either, but that may just be the result of the last 2.5 years of process.

I’ve had to put the guitar lessons on hiatus for right now. It’s a combination of several factors including finances, schedule, and the possibility I may have to find a new place to live here in Indy. My landlord, IMO, changed the terms of kitchen access such that it (again, IMO) almost negates use. Frankly, his terms are acceptable, but it does provide me some incentive to start looking around. It also messes with many other things, from guitar to Church. It is also not my top priority as there is medical and more that needs to come first.

I also have cancelled my gym membership. Largest reason is financial, along with not being able to get there very often right now. Until other things settle down (location, etc.) it’s something I can get by without. There are ways to improvise on some of the upper body, and I do get in a good bit of walking these days.

If you did not do early voting, go vote tomorrow! I did do early voting as I have an appointment with the ENT tomorrow and a very weird bus schedule as a result. Hoping to get answers on some vertigo issues that popped up, as well as a better understanding on how my hearing is/isn’t doing.

For the latest wishlist items, and anonymous donation, THANK YOU! No info in package, but already playing with the items and testing a few things.

Between the guitar lessons and becoming a chanter at Church, I feel the music “therapy” has done a lot for me. Of the odd gaps in my memory, not being able to read sheet music and having to relearn to sing (and stay on pitch) is a weird one. Thankfully, our music director is very patient, and (like me) sees the music as excellent therapy. Which means she sees it almost as a duty and definitely as a challenge. So, she’s pushing me in her own way, which is a good thing. Hope to be doing more with that and at Church in the days ahead.

Speaking of which, our “Old World Christmas Village & Market” is Friday 6 December from 5-9 pm and Saturday 7 December from 10-3. There are gift shops, events, food, coffee & hot chocolate (and maybe more, stay tuned), and more. I will be working in The Lamp Post, which is our coffee shop/meeting room that features a replica of the bar from the Eagle & Child Pub in Cambridge where the Inklings (C.S. Lewis, Tolkien, et al) met each week. Come by and we will tell you how that replica ended up in the Church and how it is shaping a number of things. 1516 N. Delaware, Indianapolis, Joy of All Who Sorrow Orthodox Church. Oh, word is that Santa Lucia will be making a visit again this year. Yes, I am enjoying being active in the Church and may be doing even more soon.

There was something else I was going to share, but I didn’t write it down, and so it is gone. If it is important and comes back, will add it later. For those of you hitting the tip jar or the wish list, thank you! To say things remain tight is an understatement, and your gifts and prayers continue to make a big difference. By next spring we should have answers as to where things are medically, which is going to determine my future plans. No moving out of state for now as my insurance will not transfer and is very much needed. Between that and the quality of care I’m now getting, not inclined to rock the boat.

More soon. Thank you again for your patience and your help!

SITREP 3 Oct 24

Yesterday saw the first part of the day given over to a phone hearing with an administrative law judge on my disability claim. Honestly, not sure how it went. Trying to get more info in from current exams and such, and we have two weeks to get more things in. The earliest I expect to hear anything is a month from now. The evening got spent with a special vespers followed by a class on the early Church fathers and the early days of the Church. Fun, interesting, and enjoying the history as well as the theological aspects.

This morning I had to be up at 0330 to get ready and catch a bus down to my regular doctor’s lab for a fasting blood draw and other delights. I actually arrived right as the lab opened, so it timed out well. Not the way I planned to spend two hours this morning (I would have preferred to sleep), but good to test the system. Stopped at the store and got a small roast for an arm and a leg that I will put in the slow cooker tomorrow. Then walked up to my favorite breakfast place in Indy for a plate of breakfast enchiladas with an over easy egg on top. Given that the route only runs every hour, was glad to only wait just under 30 minutes to catch a bus back.

Oddly tired, but a few other things to get done today if I can. Not counting on doing a lot. More soon.