I thought since the Arlington, TX area has been in the news this week that I would write a story about my time there. I lived there from 1991-1993. During that time, I had two vocal cord surgeries that I've blogged about before. I want to talk a little about the time after that in this blog.
As a result of the surgeries, I had to begin wearing a ventilator at night to sleep well. Not a thrill for a newly married couple. I had to go overnight for a couple of days to have a sleep study done to get the correct settings for my machine. That all went fine but two things didn't go over so well with me. First, they sent in a psychologist to see me. Well, I nipped that in the bud. As soon as they introduced themselves, I said 'just stop right there, I have nothing to say and I better not get a bill for this.' The second thing that happened is more of my focus here. This is the time of my life when I began having my swallowing and coughing troubles so the doctor recommended I get a feeding tube to help avoid the problem. Needless to say I was shocked and told him I was not ready for that kind of invasive intervention and would deal with it. Twenty years later now, I think of all the enjoyment of food I've had and the pleasure I would have missed all those years.
I tell this story to say that you must heed advice but in the end, you have to decide what is best for you. My doctor now has recommended a trach for me for some years now. When I found out that it would result in me no longer being able to speak or eat ever again, I took that option off the table. Medical technology is great but 'you' must decide your limits. By the way, this in no way advocates euthanaseia. There is a time tho to resist further medical attention.
This also plays out in your eternal fate. Heed advice but only you can decide for yourself.
Girlfriend, you had more spunk at a young age than anybody I know! I so admire your determination, perseverance and desire to live life to the very best of your ability. Once again, I admire you so much. And just look at all the Santo Coyote guacomole you got to eat because of the choice you made! Bet you did not get a bill from that psychologist either!! Loved our visit today....think of you every time I look at my sweet plaque. See you again soon...love you, T.
ReplyDeleteAngie, God has granted you wisdom for a long time now. I hope that many read this, using their own wisdom to understand the depth of it. There is a time for everything, and it is obvious that your time is now! Yes, God has given us doctors to help us, but He has also given us the sense to make some critical decisions for ourselves. No wonder you have lived as long and as joyfully as you have!
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