Apr 24, 2017

The Medical Zone

Come along on a trip with me. Imagine we are meeting the top experts in the world on your health problem. Imagine nice smart people with the latest research and technology all in one place giving you choices. You don't have to do what they suggest. It is up to you.

But you have no clue.

You have entered the medical zone. Run like hell and go back to your craft room!!! The medical zone is a bad place. You do not want to be here!

Seriously -- for those of you who aren't on Facebook, or cannot read my page, here is what I posted today.

Update: Went to Boston last week for another medical consult. The bottom line is that I have a choice between open heart surgery or living with symptoms, and side effects, from my medication. I have no idea how to decide this stuff, but grateful for options. There are thousands of people with the same condition and no health insurance or means to get even basic treatment.

Sometimes when stuff like this happens you learn who your true friends are. I have learned that my friends and family are as fantastic as I always knew they were. And I've experienced the kindness of strangers -- stampers who I did not really know but reached out (and sent stuff!), and fellow heart patients who talked with me about their surgery experiences. I thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my @#$^! heart.

 MOOD WHEN DONE = Life's a trip

26 comments:

Betty said...

oh Joan, what a decision to have to make. i'll keep you in my prayers so you will be able to decide what is best. i puttered around with a knee that was killing and finally gave in had it replaced last week - i think will be for the best but it ain't any fun - every day there is a little less pain (only a little!!) hugs and take care.

Lueyes said...


Dear Joan, I don't know what your heart problem is, but my husband had open heart surgery and it was very successful. I'm praying for you.

Unknown said...

First off, your blog is one of my most favorites blogs to follow. I love your stories, creations, and "mood when done" comments. I have laughed and been brought to tears reading your posts. I have even read a few out loud to my hubbie. What I am trying to say is you are an inspiration to me and I am grateful to have found your blog. I come from a family riddled with genetic heart problems and 35 years ago open heart surgery patients had a 50/50 shot of survival from the procedure. The surgery still has serious risks but the medical technology and knowledge far exceeds what was known just a few decades ago. The success rate now is phenomenal. The unknown is the scariest part. You have a lot of family, friends, and followers that love you and are praying for you no matter what you decide to do. {{{ HUGS }}}
Edited previous comment for correction of "mood when finished"

Lisa Silver said...

Hi Joan - I'm certainly thinking of you and wishing you all the best!

sue t. said...

Joan- with all the family and friends around to support you and help you through these tough times, I know you will make the right decision for you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

cm said...

Joan, thank you for sharing this update. I don't envy you the decision but I know you'll make the one best for you! We'll be here, cheering and supporting whatever path you choose to take and sending our hugs, love and prayers in mega quantities...
~carol

luvhymns said...

What she said-(Joan) plus prayers.... tough spot and I hate and avoid the medical field until I've exhausted all other avenues..... sounds like you're a kindred spirit! hugs from Woodsboro MD

Kimberly Eddy said...

Hi Joan! Oh how I adore seeing your posts pop up in my email!! Love your writing style AND of course your cards. Thank you for sharing your journey with all of us. Even when armed with knowledge sometimes a decision can be a weight on your back. I pray you will have a peace about which way you decide to go. Hugs and love!!

brandco2450@gmail.com said...

Thank you for sharing and I wish you all the luck in the world. My grandson was born with
congenital heart disease and had five open heart surgeries by the time he was nine. He is now twentyone
and leading a normal life.....

vdoyle8 said...

I wish you the best of luck - and will be sending up prayers for you. Life is indeed a trip. May your trip be long and healthy. I know we've never met but your blog makes me feel as though you're a friend.

Leslie Miller said...

Yes, it's a scary place. You have a weighty decision to make and I know you'll give it a lot of thought. I'm wondering if the consulting physician suggested one way or the other. Probably not. It's your choice. If I could send peace and strength over the internet I sure would. Hope you're picking up some of it...

Jeanne H said...

I too thank you for sharing. I've been wondering and worrying. Take care, dear crafty writer. I too love your cards and writing.

Joan B said...

glad you had the knee replaced. I understand that can be a hard thing, but so worth it. Take care, you are so sweet!

Joan B said...

glad to hear your husband's heart surgery went well!!! thank you for your prayers. my heart condition is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Joan B said...

Leigh, thank you so much for your very kind words!!! MOOD WHEN DONE = Grateful!

Joan B said...

thanks so much

Joan B said...

Thanks, Sue. I hope I do!!

Joan B said...

Thanks Carol. I always appreciate you!

Joan B said...

Yes I'm a believer in doing as little as possible medically but somethings are necessary. Argh

Joan B said...

thanks for your very very kind words.

Joan B said...

wow, now that puts everything in perspective. glad he is doing so well

Joan B said...

oh that is so sweet. thank you

Joan B said...

the experts say it is my call. my local cardiologist is urging me to have the surgery. we are trying one more med to see if it works. if not, I think I'm headed for surgery. thanks for the note Leslie. You are dear!

Joan B said...

so nice of you to say this. I'll keep the blog posted!!!

Diana K said...

I wish I could give you some amazing advice or insight, but I can't. But can I tell you how much I appreciate your attitude? Your comment about being grateful for options, while others have none, said it all to me. I feel like you are a kindred spirit. Big hugs to you, Joan.

Glorie said...

Joan, sending hugs and prayers.