Monday, August 2, 2010

Wife's entry, 4 months after 1 step Jpouch surgery

Hello All,

It's been a long time since either one of us has contributed to the blog and for good reasons, Steven is doing really well! We have been too busy living life again and it feels great to be able to take things for granted. Let me tell you what has changed as a result of Steven's last surgery. 

First of all no more bag changes. This bi-weekly ritual of careful timing and anxiety is behind us. The agony of taking tape off an open wound is a thing of the past. 

Second, there is no more need to conceal a balloon under Steven's shirt. The balloon would expand according to Steven's diet and in general takes a bit of fashion planning during business meetings.

Third, and possible the biggest news of all is that Steven is weight lifting again!. I remember when we used to see other people's blogs about how much they can weightlift now that they have a j-pouch. We of course thought they were lying and Steven has resolved that weightlifting would be a thing of his past but not his future. Well, not only is he weightlifting again, but he is cutting the grass, traveling and in general doing much better. While he still lacks the energy he once had, his waking hours are much more productive.  

I just wanted to thank everyone who has been staying connected during Steven's journey. I know your support has meant so much to both of us. I think we really need to have witnesses during our life challenges so we have a sense of reality when the bad times go away.


Love,
the wife


Wednesday, April 28, 2010

No more updates

I think its time to say goodbye.  The surgeries seem to have worked and all is well again.  3 years of colitis and its time to move on.

I don't know how long the health will be here for.  Noone does.  But I will certainly make the most of it and invest my second chance very carefully.  Its been one hell of a learning experience.  Nothing remains the same when you stare death in the face.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Really cool news

I forgot to mention some great news.  I was on prednisone for about a year, at 40-80mg and had wicked diabetes (24 mmol).  Now its down to 5-6 mmol!  At least some part of yours truly is normal!!