The Internet spoke no lies in previewing the scale of adorableness that is Dr. Hickey. He is calm, kind and infinitely patient. All of our nervous questions were answered and tended to with well-explained, knowledgeable reason and much experience. He also laughed at many of my jokes and that, if nothing else, made him a winner in my book.
He showed us my last MRI, discussed all of the options and drew an excellently descriptive diagram – that after the fact looked a bit like an alien squid.
He listened to my silly heart and explained all the aspects of what to expect. I glazed over and crumpled up slightly when he said that my sternum will need to be wired shut with stainless-steel wire for it to heal.
I asked if the wire would be taken out after.
He said it stays in for life.
I asked if the wire would like being left in there for so long.
He said yes, that the wire wouldn’t mind and that I would not have a problem with airport security.
Phew. What a relief. (Said no one ever with a chest strapped in wire.)
The surgery, he told us, would take 4-5 hours in total. I jokingly asked if he ever stops to have a snack or a drink during surgery, he laughed and said no.
What stamina!
He covered all of the good, the bad and the worst places of ugly. I feel calm and accepting in the contentment that this surgery will be in the best hands. He is reassuring and kind and I wish to be friendships with him in my real life.
Our superstar friend Sara, came digitally equipped for the early morning festivities with DSLR in hand to film what footage we could get for our documentary. Dr. Hickey was delightfully accommodating and open to it all. I feel certain that this lad is millimetres away from sainthood.
The surgery is being scheduled in early January, so that I can drink all of the wine over Christmas, so I have enough time to prepare fully.
All current looming questions were answered, and even though during this journey there will likely be many more, right now I feel unflustered and content.
I have my surgeon. And I heart him.
One thing at a time.
This part is done.
Also most importantly this happened….
8 Comments
i used to date a heart surgeon! i was present at many open heart surgeries and was always fascinated, but then it wasn’t my sternum being sawed open…
but the wires look quite attractive when they are done, sort of like a well trussed christmas turkey. 🙂
i’m sure you’re going to be just fine. chin up and a stiff upper lip! you can do this. OXOXOX
that is really remarkable that they let you watch a surgery!!! Also more remarkable that you didn’t fall over and faint at the sight of it all….oh wait that would be my reaction. 😉
I have to say that I have no idea where I got this amazing person ! The incredible amount of stuff that has been part of her short life is mind boggling. How it has not adversely affect her wonderful personality is utterly unbelievable in fact that leaves me in a state of awe! I like so many others ,have experienced so much joy and positive energy as a result of her being a part of our lives .ROCK ON 13!
Mamma!! de mango doh fall far from de tree 🙂
xoxoxoxoxoxoxox
Good to hear that he has put you as much at ease as possible. Love the video. You are clowns!
the poor hospital staff have no idea what they are in for…. 🙂
I am going to have to pre warn the doc that my mom is very likely going to try to pinch his bum.
xo
Tracy, I like your style!
My husband went through this surgery in 2009, although he opted for a mechanical valve and since can occasionally be heard ticking like an alarm clock. Sadly, he too does not set off bells at airport security.
Anyway, I just wanted to say if you had any questions that can only be answered by a fellow chest burst-ee, let us know. 😉
All the best.
Thanks Candace! 🙂