Some people have been asking me what I did to prepare for surgery. I have scattered throughout my blog the different things I did to prepare but I think it would make sense to mention it in a post specifically.
I will also go back and try and tag the posts that I did previously.
To prepare for surgery I started taking cranberry extract pills to promote urinary tract health. I also started taking vitamin C to boost my immune system. I began trying to drink more fluids but wasn't as successful pre-op as I could have been.
I also had been saying for weeks that I wanted to get back in the gym and workout. About a month before surgery I finally got off my butt and got my membership. I worked out 4-5 days a week. Focusing on my core and cardio. This resulted in me losing about 6 or so pounds and building muscle which was great for such a short amount of time.
I also worked on doing a lot of stretching so that I wouldn't stiffen up so easily post op.
I also made sure to increase my fruit and veggie intake
In terms of medically I made sure to see my Primary care Physician and get a physical done about 6 or 7 weeks prior to surgery to make sure that if there was any issues they could be addressed in time for surgery. I had an EKG done which came back fine. I had other surgeries in the past so it was actually quite easy for me to deal with anesthesia. I guess I should also add that I am allergic to eggs and the one they most commonly give people has an egg based ingredient so I can't use that one. It seems lucky for me because I never feel nausea after anesthesia. I just feel like my eyes are heavy for a few hours. I am always completely alert but just can't keep both eyes open at the same time. I can only open my eyes one at a time because they feel like they weigh a ton. Outside of that I bounce back from anesthesia quite fast!
I also donate blood a month before surgery. The reason for this was 2 fold 1) I build up red blood cells more now since being on T and donating blood regularly keeps my RBC count in the perfect zone for me.
2) I get time off work for being a regular donor.
The time off came in handy to see my doctor to get my medical clearance for surgery.
I guess that is all
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Monday, August 16, 2010
My last day as a Pre-op man
Today was an interesting day.
Got up early because my body hasn't adjusted to the time zone change. Tried to go back to sleep but I was too wired and afraid I might oversleep and miss my appointment.
I had a decent breakfast at the hotel. I'm staying at the Best Western. I hear that for Patients of Dr. Bowers it is the next best thing to the morning after house. It has a Fridge and microwave in the room which helps cut down on food expenses and allows for keeping healthier foods handy.
My daughter was playing with my Blackberry which has now disappeared. I don't know if she threw it in the Garbage, lost it in the sheets, ate it or it got sucked into a black hole. Whereever it is I can't find it in this room. I'm going to check in the morning to see if it was found in the laundry but chances are she threw it away.
I was worried about it at first but to be honest I have more important things to worry about. Luckily it is insured and a business phone. Though it will suck to not have all those business numbers, I still have my iphone. I will get those numbers back one way or another. Plus I can have the phone here in 2 days.
After that very eventful morning Janet from Dr. Bowers' office came to get us so I could have my pre-op appointment.
I went to Dr. Bower's office first and met Robin (she is the coordinator for the office). Robin gave me some papers to take across to the hospital (one for anesthesia and some for admitting). Honestly the hospital is right across the parking lot so it wasn't very far.
When I went across to the Hospital I met with a woman from the Anesthesia department to make sure my medical history forms were still correct (I submitted them a few months back) and to discuss what will happen anesthesia wise tomorrow before and during surgery. She also told me to shave my genitals as much as possible and what I miss they will give a touch up on right before surgery.
I then went over to admitting and took a number. While I was waiting I ran into a patient of Dr. Bowers who I connected to online. She was having surgery tomorrow as well which is why we said we would try and find one another. We are also staying in the same hotel which is cool.
While we were talking she told me that since she is having vaginoplasty she isn't allowed to eat for the rest of the day (she was only allowed a light breakfast today) and she will have to take a bowel prep solution called "golytely" (pronounce GO LIGHTLY). We joked about the name of it and she told me how she envied me only for the fact that I didn't have to have a bowel prep and I could eat all day up until midnight. The only thing that I have to do is drink extra fluids mainly for 2 reasons. 1) It is good to be hydrated to promote healing 2) Colorado is in the mountains and the air is really dry in general plus it's summer!
My number was finally called and I went to see the woman in admitting. They took some of the papers Robin sent me over with. The woman in Admitting made copies of my insurance card and ID. She had the letter from my insurance saying they would be paying for my surgery which is why she needed copies of my ID and cards. We also did my Healthcare proxy and living will forms. (This made my wife a little uneasy and she got teary eyed because she doesn't like to think of something bad happening to me).
I reviewed all the info we went over in admitting and signed the forms. I was given a wristband just for today for my labs to be done.
Shortly after I left admitting I was called to do labs. The lab tech had the usual difficulties getting my blood as all people do, she eventually got it and I was done.
We went to the hospital cafetaria because I still had to go back and see Dr. Bowers. We were hungry and had time to kill. The cafeteria was small and simple. They didn't have as many food options as we city folk are used to but we found something that looked good and it was good.
We went over to Dr. Bowers office where I filled out more papers. Robin checked my blood presure, weight and asked me a few questions. I was then placed in a room to wait for Dr. Bowers. I had met her several times before but this was the first time I was seeing her for an entirely personal reason.
When she came in and saw it was me she gave me a big hug. She knows me more in a professional capacity because I started my own clinic and I had them fly her into NYC about a year ago for grand rounds. She is used to my Trans community advocacy name, which is why she didn't realize it was me by looking at the chart. We caught up a little then it was down to business.
She told me that she has done about 20 ring Metas so far. She said when she first started doing them she use to also use a suprapubic catheter but stopped for a while. After she stopped using them a few guys had complications so she is back to using them and since she has been using them again things have been good.
All that to say. I will have a suprapubic catheter. I'm not thrilled about it but I'd rather have that than have complications so it is what it is.
I then got undressed from the waist down and she looked at my goods to see what she had to work with. She said that I had good length. She was excited and made a joke about how it is interesting that her African American patients tend to have more to work with on average. That made me smile despite the fact she was between my legs.
She said the plan is for me to stay 2 nights in the hospital but some guys feel good enough to leave after the first night. She said we will see how I feel and go from there. She also told me that surgery is about 3.5 hours. I will be her second surgery of the day so I am to arrive around 9:30AM. Since I did all my admission stuff today tomorrow will basically consist of me arriving, registering, changing clothes, IV then out like a light! Wake up and BAM I'm swinging low! lol. I am really happy. I feel all sorts of stuff right now. I will admit I am a little nervous moreso because it doesn't feel real yet. I am sure when I wake up it will feel real.
I will try and post briefly tomorrow night but chances are the good stuff won't be posted until later in the week! Just a few more hours to go!
Got up early because my body hasn't adjusted to the time zone change. Tried to go back to sleep but I was too wired and afraid I might oversleep and miss my appointment.
I had a decent breakfast at the hotel. I'm staying at the Best Western. I hear that for Patients of Dr. Bowers it is the next best thing to the morning after house. It has a Fridge and microwave in the room which helps cut down on food expenses and allows for keeping healthier foods handy.
My daughter was playing with my Blackberry which has now disappeared. I don't know if she threw it in the Garbage, lost it in the sheets, ate it or it got sucked into a black hole. Whereever it is I can't find it in this room. I'm going to check in the morning to see if it was found in the laundry but chances are she threw it away.
I was worried about it at first but to be honest I have more important things to worry about. Luckily it is insured and a business phone. Though it will suck to not have all those business numbers, I still have my iphone. I will get those numbers back one way or another. Plus I can have the phone here in 2 days.
After that very eventful morning Janet from Dr. Bowers' office came to get us so I could have my pre-op appointment.
I went to Dr. Bower's office first and met Robin (she is the coordinator for the office). Robin gave me some papers to take across to the hospital (one for anesthesia and some for admitting). Honestly the hospital is right across the parking lot so it wasn't very far.
When I went across to the Hospital I met with a woman from the Anesthesia department to make sure my medical history forms were still correct (I submitted them a few months back) and to discuss what will happen anesthesia wise tomorrow before and during surgery. She also told me to shave my genitals as much as possible and what I miss they will give a touch up on right before surgery.
I then went over to admitting and took a number. While I was waiting I ran into a patient of Dr. Bowers who I connected to online. She was having surgery tomorrow as well which is why we said we would try and find one another. We are also staying in the same hotel which is cool.
While we were talking she told me that since she is having vaginoplasty she isn't allowed to eat for the rest of the day (she was only allowed a light breakfast today) and she will have to take a bowel prep solution called "golytely" (pronounce GO LIGHTLY). We joked about the name of it and she told me how she envied me only for the fact that I didn't have to have a bowel prep and I could eat all day up until midnight. The only thing that I have to do is drink extra fluids mainly for 2 reasons. 1) It is good to be hydrated to promote healing 2) Colorado is in the mountains and the air is really dry in general plus it's summer!
My number was finally called and I went to see the woman in admitting. They took some of the papers Robin sent me over with. The woman in Admitting made copies of my insurance card and ID. She had the letter from my insurance saying they would be paying for my surgery which is why she needed copies of my ID and cards. We also did my Healthcare proxy and living will forms. (This made my wife a little uneasy and she got teary eyed because she doesn't like to think of something bad happening to me).
I reviewed all the info we went over in admitting and signed the forms. I was given a wristband just for today for my labs to be done.
Shortly after I left admitting I was called to do labs. The lab tech had the usual difficulties getting my blood as all people do, she eventually got it and I was done.
We went to the hospital cafetaria because I still had to go back and see Dr. Bowers. We were hungry and had time to kill. The cafeteria was small and simple. They didn't have as many food options as we city folk are used to but we found something that looked good and it was good.
We went over to Dr. Bowers office where I filled out more papers. Robin checked my blood presure, weight and asked me a few questions. I was then placed in a room to wait for Dr. Bowers. I had met her several times before but this was the first time I was seeing her for an entirely personal reason.
When she came in and saw it was me she gave me a big hug. She knows me more in a professional capacity because I started my own clinic and I had them fly her into NYC about a year ago for grand rounds. She is used to my Trans community advocacy name, which is why she didn't realize it was me by looking at the chart. We caught up a little then it was down to business.
She told me that she has done about 20 ring Metas so far. She said when she first started doing them she use to also use a suprapubic catheter but stopped for a while. After she stopped using them a few guys had complications so she is back to using them and since she has been using them again things have been good.
All that to say. I will have a suprapubic catheter. I'm not thrilled about it but I'd rather have that than have complications so it is what it is.
I then got undressed from the waist down and she looked at my goods to see what she had to work with. She said that I had good length. She was excited and made a joke about how it is interesting that her African American patients tend to have more to work with on average. That made me smile despite the fact she was between my legs.
She said the plan is for me to stay 2 nights in the hospital but some guys feel good enough to leave after the first night. She said we will see how I feel and go from there. She also told me that surgery is about 3.5 hours. I will be her second surgery of the day so I am to arrive around 9:30AM. Since I did all my admission stuff today tomorrow will basically consist of me arriving, registering, changing clothes, IV then out like a light! Wake up and BAM I'm swinging low! lol. I am really happy. I feel all sorts of stuff right now. I will admit I am a little nervous moreso because it doesn't feel real yet. I am sure when I wake up it will feel real.
I will try and post briefly tomorrow night but chances are the good stuff won't be posted until later in the week! Just a few more hours to go!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Update!
Only about 17 days left til surgery. Yeah! I got some loose shorts that are breathable so that when I get back from surgery I have more options. The shorts are softer, roomier and seem great for recovery post op. I am excited yet for some reason I feel like I am dreaming. I want to fast forward to being Post op.
I have been doing extra cardio at the gym to help me with my recovery post op. I have aso been taking vitamin C and a cranberry vitamin that will Aid in my Urniary tract health.
I was feeling a little bad that I have not blogging everyday but I thought about it and once I have surgery I will be posting about my healing everyday and possibly even multiple times a day just so I don't forget anything.
I have been doing extra cardio at the gym to help me with my recovery post op. I have aso been taking vitamin C and a cranberry vitamin that will Aid in my Urniary tract health.
I was feeling a little bad that I have not blogging everyday but I thought about it and once I have surgery I will be posting about my healing everyday and possibly even multiple times a day just so I don't forget anything.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Getting my body ready
I am very proud of myself because I feel my body getting stronger. Not just in the physical sense but also the spiritual sense. I have been going to the gym and really focusing my energy. Since joining the gym I have mentally been in a better place. I feel really calm despite all the stuff going on with me and around me.
I started taking vitamin C today for my immune system. I also started taking a cranberry pill to promot urinary tract health since I am getting urehtral lengthening. I will take it up until the week before surgery then start back up after surgery. I also have been drinking more water and eating more fruit. I feel like my health and fitness is the only thing left for me to control while I count down the days.
24 days left til surgery!
I started taking vitamin C today for my immune system. I also started taking a cranberry pill to promot urinary tract health since I am getting urehtral lengthening. I will take it up until the week before surgery then start back up after surgery. I also have been drinking more water and eating more fruit. I feel like my health and fitness is the only thing left for me to control while I count down the days.
24 days left til surgery!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
I really like my new gym
I worked out again tonight and it was AWESOME. Tonight there were a lot more people at the gym but there was still space for me to work out and not have to wait so that reinforced the fact that I made a good pick. I also have a friend who worked out with me 2 times of the 3 times I went to work out and he is turning out to be an awesome gym buddy. In the past my workout buddies have been guys who are already set in their workout routine and they are trying to help me get on one. He hasnt been working out too consistantly either so both of us as basically starting fresh to develop good habits and since we are in the same place I feel it is easier for us to support each other.
I also like the fact that we can workout together on the same muscle group but also separate and do our own thing. In the past I felt pressured by my workout buddies to be their shadow and do exactly as they did if I wanted to see results. I am really liking my new gym and I am kind of sad that I will only be able to work out for a month then I have to stop because of my upcoming surgery. I do plan to put in as much gym time as possible pre-op and after surgery really get in there. I plan to have my body looking the way I want it to by next summer. It is nice now but I want it to be SMOKING next summer. I want heads to turn. lol. Every once in a while a little extra attention is nice.
I also like the fact that we can workout together on the same muscle group but also separate and do our own thing. In the past I felt pressured by my workout buddies to be their shadow and do exactly as they did if I wanted to see results. I am really liking my new gym and I am kind of sad that I will only be able to work out for a month then I have to stop because of my upcoming surgery. I do plan to put in as much gym time as possible pre-op and after surgery really get in there. I plan to have my body looking the way I want it to by next summer. It is nice now but I want it to be SMOKING next summer. I want heads to turn. lol. Every once in a while a little extra attention is nice.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
I found me a gym!
I found the perfect gym FOR ME yesterday. Everyone was telling me oh try this gym or that gym for X, Y, Z reason. That seemed very reasonable but didn't work for me. I found a gym that had a child care option during certain hours which conveniently is during the hours I plan to work out anyway. It also has the equipment and max amount of weights I was looking for. The gym locker room didn't smell funny which wasa plus. They have showers that are private in case I want to take a shower before I leave. The environment also seems very chill. I don't feel like I would be judged there. I went today for the first time to workout and I got a good vibe. There were all kinds of people there and it felt right. I almost slammed the weights by accident and didn't have to worry about a random alarm going off accusing me of being a "lunk."
I think this could be the start of a BEAUTIFUL relationship.
I think this could be the start of a BEAUTIFUL relationship.
One month to go!
I have exactly 30 days until my meta with hookup which I am very excited about. I am currently working out to get my body into the best shape possible for surgery. I have already been cleared by my PMD and I got the clearance in the mail yesterday. My insurance stuff is all set. I am just waiting for my packet from the Surgeon's office which should have been here by now. I will email them tonight about that though and hopefully it is either in the mail already or will be in the mail ASAP. I think it has been sent though and just hasn't gotten here.
I just need to book my flight and hotel which is why I need the packet because it has hotel discount and travel information in there.
It still doesn't feel real yet so for now I am still just going through the motions.
I just need to book my flight and hotel which is why I need the packet because it has hotel discount and travel information in there.
It still doesn't feel real yet so for now I am still just going through the motions.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Another productive day!
I rode 17.14 miles total today. I will feel it tomorrow! I am proud of myself. I rode at high speed in each direction which shocked me. I was trying to keep up with a buddy who is in peak shape and has been cycling for weeks for me to keep up let me know my body is stronger than I thought.
I am taking it one day at a time and not waiiting to have some big fitness epiphany but rather doing everything physical I can to get me burning the calories. Another successful and productive day!
I am taking it one day at a time and not waiiting to have some big fitness epiphany but rather doing everything physical I can to get me burning the calories. Another successful and productive day!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Sweating and more sweat!
I just busted out some cardio. I was already sweating from it being so damn hot. I did some rope cardio and that really got me sweating so much I couldn't see. My shoulders were really starting to feel it when I was done. I had a nice protein shake. Cooling down now then shower and bed. No more excuses!
Monday, July 5, 2010
Getting back on track!
I just did some dumbell curls at home and drank a protein shake. I know it isn't much but I figured instead of me waiting for some grand beginning to get me back into working out I need to just take babysteps and do what I can because something is better than nothing!
I am officially getting back on track!
I am officially getting back on track!
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Getting in the Gym
I am finally gonna bog down and get a gym membership. Now that my daughter is settled in a schedule it makes more sense for me to do it now. I tried the whole workout at home business and I was able to do it for a while but now I really can't because when I am home there are too many distractions. I know if I have a membership I will be paying money and I don't like to waste money so that will definitely be enough motivation to get me there in the beginning. The results and the increased strength will be what keeps me going.
"Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase."
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase."
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Getting into shape for surgery
This is my official proclamation that I will lose 10 lbs by surgery! I want to lose 15lbs total but I feel with the amount of time I have 10lbs is doable and will put my body right where I want it to be. I will be in the park with my guys tomorrow so I will definitely be sweating, running and burning some serious calories. I have already made adjustments to my diet now I just need to keep myself active to take the progress to the next level.
I also feel by reducing my overall body fat that will help reduce the size of my stomach and my mons fat to help with the aesthetics of my upcoming lower surgery.
I also feel by reducing my overall body fat that will help reduce the size of my stomach and my mons fat to help with the aesthetics of my upcoming lower surgery.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Should I be doing something?
I feel like I should be doing something. My meta is a few weeks away. I will admit I am not pumping. I have a little too much dysphoria and distraction lately to do so but I guess I should since it will make me feel like I am "preparing". I guys I should be working out also. I am 4lbs heavier than my personal preferred "max weight" which isnt a lot but with surgery coming up I want to be in a healthy BMI for the best results possible. I guess thinking of all of this means I really do have some things to do to prepare for surgery.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Moving right along!
I went to see my medical Doctor yesterday to get on my medical clearance stuff. Due to my medical history I am required to get an EKG. I decided to do it sooner rather than later so that if it looked funny (which mine sometimes do even when there is nothing wrong but that is my "baseline") I would have time to get cleared by my cardiologist if needed.
So I went in and showed my Doc the letter from insurance agreeing to pay for surgery she was so happy for me. She has known me since I was a child and actually used to work at the same medical facility as my mother so she has seen me in both my developmental stages as a human being and through my transition. Most of her other patients dont want lower surgery so this is all new territory to her and she was open to learning so we discussed where I am at in my process, what procedure I am having and might need in the future. We also discussed how she as my primary MD would fit into that with annual screenings and any other necessary care. It was a really nice talk we had. She wasn't even seeing patients yesterday but because it was me she decided to make and exception so that I could get things in sooner especially since between filling out camp forms and other summer medical stuff she is really busy (she does family medicine).
I did my EKG which was one of the best she has seen from me it was perfect so no need for me to see the Cardiologist. She reviewed my transition history so that she could include that in my clearance letter which was important because if I am under a certain amount of years in my transition I would need 2 mental health letters as opposed to one letter. I only have one letter and fortunately enough based on MY situation my history seems strong enough to my surgeon and insurance to not warrant a second letter confirming the need for me to have this surgery and my readiness.
My Doc had a meeting to get to but agreed to write my letter and get it to me ASAP. She did give me a copy of my EKG to fax to the surgeon because worse case scenario if the letter doesnt get done or Murphy's law kicks in as long as my surgeon has the clean EKG and her contact info we will be able to get me in the OR without issue.
I am so happy that things are coming together. It still doesn't feel real just yet but I am still excited!
So I went in and showed my Doc the letter from insurance agreeing to pay for surgery she was so happy for me. She has known me since I was a child and actually used to work at the same medical facility as my mother so she has seen me in both my developmental stages as a human being and through my transition. Most of her other patients dont want lower surgery so this is all new territory to her and she was open to learning so we discussed where I am at in my process, what procedure I am having and might need in the future. We also discussed how she as my primary MD would fit into that with annual screenings and any other necessary care. It was a really nice talk we had. She wasn't even seeing patients yesterday but because it was me she decided to make and exception so that I could get things in sooner especially since between filling out camp forms and other summer medical stuff she is really busy (she does family medicine).
I did my EKG which was one of the best she has seen from me it was perfect so no need for me to see the Cardiologist. She reviewed my transition history so that she could include that in my clearance letter which was important because if I am under a certain amount of years in my transition I would need 2 mental health letters as opposed to one letter. I only have one letter and fortunately enough based on MY situation my history seems strong enough to my surgeon and insurance to not warrant a second letter confirming the need for me to have this surgery and my readiness.
My Doc had a meeting to get to but agreed to write my letter and get it to me ASAP. She did give me a copy of my EKG to fax to the surgeon because worse case scenario if the letter doesnt get done or Murphy's law kicks in as long as my surgeon has the clean EKG and her contact info we will be able to get me in the OR without issue.
I am so happy that things are coming together. It still doesn't feel real just yet but I am still excited!
Monday, April 19, 2010
April 19th- is a big day for me
There was a lot going on today.
First off today is my 2 year Anniversary of Top surgery! Hurray!
I also had my post op appointment today for my hysto. The surgeon looked at my incision (which are so tiny) just to make sure that they are closing properly and arent infected. I was nervous that she would have to look between my legs which she didn't she also told me that I would never have to have any "exam" again. She did say that some docs suggest getting the hole checked every 2- 3years just to make sure there are no other issues or if using those parts to check for STD/STIs. I told her I plan to have that hole closed by next year this time so we need not worry about that. She laughed. She informed me that my pathology came back fine and that while she had her "scope" in me she looked at my liver since she knew it was a "concern" she stated that my liver looks perfectly normal externally. It is NOT enlarged, it is normal color and appears fine. She reported that she put this in her OR report as a side note. Her looking was justified due to previous medical notations. She said I could get a copy if I wanted to take to my Liver specialist since he was deciding whether or not they should "scope" me or do a biopsy. I am on cloud 9 right now! I am SOOOO happy that I got this done!
Today was a great day!
First off today is my 2 year Anniversary of Top surgery! Hurray!
I also had my post op appointment today for my hysto. The surgeon looked at my incision (which are so tiny) just to make sure that they are closing properly and arent infected. I was nervous that she would have to look between my legs which she didn't she also told me that I would never have to have any "exam" again. She did say that some docs suggest getting the hole checked every 2- 3years just to make sure there are no other issues or if using those parts to check for STD/STIs. I told her I plan to have that hole closed by next year this time so we need not worry about that. She laughed. She informed me that my pathology came back fine and that while she had her "scope" in me she looked at my liver since she knew it was a "concern" she stated that my liver looks perfectly normal externally. It is NOT enlarged, it is normal color and appears fine. She reported that she put this in her OR report as a side note. Her looking was justified due to previous medical notations. She said I could get a copy if I wanted to take to my Liver specialist since he was deciding whether or not they should "scope" me or do a biopsy. I am on cloud 9 right now! I am SOOOO happy that I got this done!
Today was a great day!
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Day 11 post op update
I am feeling great 95% back to normal. I ran from one part of my home to the next for something and felt no pain or discomfort today. I also ran to catch a bus yesterday and felt normal. Still no aftermath from yesterdays "self gratification" session yesterday.
I am really itching to workout! Though I feel that I am ready to start now I'm going to wait. I will have my post op follow up in 2 days and I think the doc will either clear me then or tell me exactly how many more days I have to wait. I have a feeling she will clear me to "start slow" which would be fine by me.
I really feel better in my body and am one step closer to feeling whole. I am SO glad that I had the hysto. Feeling this great makes me feel more ready to have lower surgery and just be. I have my path laid out before me and I am ready to go forward with regards to that. I started a new yahoo group related to that to help other guys out with their lower surgery decision making.
I didn't take my T shot the week of surgery or the week after surgery but I plan to take it this week. My Doc said I didn't have to stop but I stopped for myself since I was going to be hormonally all crazy anyway why waste my T? It worked out because I got my vial of T late from the pharmacy. I think missing the 2 shots actually helped because I am not having any hot flashes and I haven't had any since day 4 or so since the hysto. I will get my levels checked in a few weeks to see where things are.
I am increasingly interested in boxing and can't wait to start training. I am thinking of starting an unofficial fight club for men of trans experience in my area.
I forgot to mention yesterday that I saw the liver specialist and since my labs are normal and I have no symptoms I DO NOT have to get a biopsy (for now) and they will just follow me. I will have to get an abdominal ultrasound in 3 months just to make sure the masses aren't getting bigger but for now they aren't worried neither am I and I was given the Green light to continue taking T so no need to worry about stopping.
Today I just feel really AWESOME!
I am really itching to workout! Though I feel that I am ready to start now I'm going to wait. I will have my post op follow up in 2 days and I think the doc will either clear me then or tell me exactly how many more days I have to wait. I have a feeling she will clear me to "start slow" which would be fine by me.
I really feel better in my body and am one step closer to feeling whole. I am SO glad that I had the hysto. Feeling this great makes me feel more ready to have lower surgery and just be. I have my path laid out before me and I am ready to go forward with regards to that. I started a new yahoo group related to that to help other guys out with their lower surgery decision making.
I didn't take my T shot the week of surgery or the week after surgery but I plan to take it this week. My Doc said I didn't have to stop but I stopped for myself since I was going to be hormonally all crazy anyway why waste my T? It worked out because I got my vial of T late from the pharmacy. I think missing the 2 shots actually helped because I am not having any hot flashes and I haven't had any since day 4 or so since the hysto. I will get my levels checked in a few weeks to see where things are.
I am increasingly interested in boxing and can't wait to start training. I am thinking of starting an unofficial fight club for men of trans experience in my area.
I forgot to mention yesterday that I saw the liver specialist and since my labs are normal and I have no symptoms I DO NOT have to get a biopsy (for now) and they will just follow me. I will have to get an abdominal ultrasound in 3 months just to make sure the masses aren't getting bigger but for now they aren't worried neither am I and I was given the Green light to continue taking T so no need to worry about stopping.
Today I just feel really AWESOME!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Life is moving forward
I will keep it as brief as possible by sectioning things off. Here we go!
Hysto
Day 7 post Hysto and I am doing GREAT! No pain just the mild discomfort still upon urination due to bladder spasms which are fading. No bleeding to date.
Lower surgery
I called my insurance regarding the letter the conversation was very good, better than I thought it would go. My documentation has to be reviewed and I may need to update some paperwork but things are looking good. No matter what I am happy I went forward with the submission of documents. I called surgeon's office to follow up regarding the conversation and things on their end. Things on their end is looking up.
Higher Education
I was going to put off my application process for the Master's Progam I wanted to do but decided to take the plunge. My application is already submitted and everything has been a go. I hope to hear soon. I have been wokring on this half assed for over a year but decided to confirm my desire to enroll in the program and hopefully I can get started soon. It seems like I am doing a lot but it is just enough.
Physical Fitness
I was going to get a family gym membership because my wife and I both need to work out more. We discussed it and decided to enhance our "home gym" (which so far consists of yoga mats, cardio rope, dumbells, curl bar, ab slide,, exercise ball, iron gym and perfect push up). The "enhancement" will lead to me getting some boxing gloves which I was interested in getting anyway. Once I can commit to doing it at home then I can revisit the formal gym issue. With the baby, the potential return to school and need for actual sleep I think this would be the best option. Plus I have my biological brother and enough friends with gym memberships that If I really need a formal gym day several have offered to have me go to their gym with them as a guest on the weekends and my days off.
Liver health
I have my appointment friday to see if those silly doctors will finally leave me alone OR if they would like to do more test to figure out why my liver looks crazy on imaging but lab wise I am still in awesome health. Nomral liver function, normal liver enzymes, All labs normal not one lab too low or too high. It has been like that for a long time. Specifically the past 5 months it has been checked it has been the same.
That's all for now! Life is moving forward
Hysto
Day 7 post Hysto and I am doing GREAT! No pain just the mild discomfort still upon urination due to bladder spasms which are fading. No bleeding to date.
Lower surgery
I called my insurance regarding the letter the conversation was very good, better than I thought it would go. My documentation has to be reviewed and I may need to update some paperwork but things are looking good. No matter what I am happy I went forward with the submission of documents. I called surgeon's office to follow up regarding the conversation and things on their end. Things on their end is looking up.
Higher Education
I was going to put off my application process for the Master's Progam I wanted to do but decided to take the plunge. My application is already submitted and everything has been a go. I hope to hear soon. I have been wokring on this half assed for over a year but decided to confirm my desire to enroll in the program and hopefully I can get started soon. It seems like I am doing a lot but it is just enough.
Physical Fitness
I was going to get a family gym membership because my wife and I both need to work out more. We discussed it and decided to enhance our "home gym" (which so far consists of yoga mats, cardio rope, dumbells, curl bar, ab slide,, exercise ball, iron gym and perfect push up). The "enhancement" will lead to me getting some boxing gloves which I was interested in getting anyway. Once I can commit to doing it at home then I can revisit the formal gym issue. With the baby, the potential return to school and need for actual sleep I think this would be the best option. Plus I have my biological brother and enough friends with gym memberships that If I really need a formal gym day several have offered to have me go to their gym with them as a guest on the weekends and my days off.
Liver health
I have my appointment friday to see if those silly doctors will finally leave me alone OR if they would like to do more test to figure out why my liver looks crazy on imaging but lab wise I am still in awesome health. Nomral liver function, normal liver enzymes, All labs normal not one lab too low or too high. It has been like that for a long time. Specifically the past 5 months it has been checked it has been the same.
That's all for now! Life is moving forward
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
So much on my mind and so much to do!
HYSTO
As I have been talking about my hysto is coming! Only 6 days left! Totally ready for it to come so I can be finally rid of these parts I should have NEVER had.
LIVER
After that I have to see if they could figure out those "mystery spots" on my liver. To this day my labs are perfect. Liver function- fine. Liver enzymes-Fine. ALL labs- Fine. I feel perfectly FINE! Just these random spots. They think they are only liver "birthmarks" (The medical term is Focal Nodular Hyperplasia). They aren't dangerous they dont grow they are just there. They just have to check again to be sure they are definitely this and not something more serious. 10 days after my hysto I have to follow up with the liver doc. I am glad that he was willing to clear me for surgery. I used my powers of pursuasion but he was already pretty for it anyways. I did point out that if I had to stop T how it would be great for me to not have those parts making me sick both physically and emotionally. I hope to get this out the way so I can continue down the road to my lower surgery. Having continued concerning liver issues would delay that and maybe even hault lower surgery if they feel I am not safe enough to undergo anesthesia BUT I am optimistic and sure that all is fine. It has to be!
*Just a side note the liver issue was not caused by me being on T they issue I am having is more linked to estrogen and they feel it may have to do with when I was pre-T Docs giving me all sorts of estrogen and birth control pills to try and deal with "reproductive issues" as well as "feminize me".
My Forum
I have my forum coming up in May for guys in my area so while I am home recovering from my hysto I plan to do more outreach for that and solidify plans regarding the food and stuff.
Clinic
I need to make some decision regarding the future of the trans clinic I have started. Though it has been great for all the trans people it has helped it has been a major headache for me lately. I plan to meet about some issues and have a few needed "conversations" to hopefully alleviate some of the headache. I am proud that we just celebrated our one year mark and are doing REALLY well way better than anyone expected. Then again I have high expectations so I expected nothing less that is why though it is "good" I want it to be better and I see areas of opportunity where it can be made better.
Conferences
I am presenting at 2 upcoming conferences. One in May and One in June so it is time to prepare for those.
Lower surgery
I discussed this like 50 million times since I started this blog so basically I just need to move forward so that I can set a date and do what I need to do in that area.
Social life
I have some dudes that I need to hang out with. I have been better lately about finding time for QUALITY time with guys I want to build meaning full friendships with instead of spending Quantity time with a bunch of guys who I have nothing in common with other than medical transition.
I am looking forward to Soccer/ football/Social in the park starting back up. This will be the 4th year we have done this and I love it! We go from April to August having fun every Saturday that it isn't raining. This is SOOO much fun. Just getting out of the house. Not worrying about work or any other obligations but just relaxing having a good time with some good guys!
Family life
I am enjoying the fact that I have found a way to balance time with my AMAZING wife (she occassionally reads, lol) and my new sweet daughter. I enjoy being a family man.
DAMN I have a lot I am doing. I need a REAL vacation!
That's all for now!
As I have been talking about my hysto is coming! Only 6 days left! Totally ready for it to come so I can be finally rid of these parts I should have NEVER had.
LIVER
After that I have to see if they could figure out those "mystery spots" on my liver. To this day my labs are perfect. Liver function- fine. Liver enzymes-Fine. ALL labs- Fine. I feel perfectly FINE! Just these random spots. They think they are only liver "birthmarks" (The medical term is Focal Nodular Hyperplasia). They aren't dangerous they dont grow they are just there. They just have to check again to be sure they are definitely this and not something more serious. 10 days after my hysto I have to follow up with the liver doc. I am glad that he was willing to clear me for surgery. I used my powers of pursuasion but he was already pretty for it anyways. I did point out that if I had to stop T how it would be great for me to not have those parts making me sick both physically and emotionally. I hope to get this out the way so I can continue down the road to my lower surgery. Having continued concerning liver issues would delay that and maybe even hault lower surgery if they feel I am not safe enough to undergo anesthesia BUT I am optimistic and sure that all is fine. It has to be!
*Just a side note the liver issue was not caused by me being on T they issue I am having is more linked to estrogen and they feel it may have to do with when I was pre-T Docs giving me all sorts of estrogen and birth control pills to try and deal with "reproductive issues" as well as "feminize me".
My Forum
I have my forum coming up in May for guys in my area so while I am home recovering from my hysto I plan to do more outreach for that and solidify plans regarding the food and stuff.
Clinic
I need to make some decision regarding the future of the trans clinic I have started. Though it has been great for all the trans people it has helped it has been a major headache for me lately. I plan to meet about some issues and have a few needed "conversations" to hopefully alleviate some of the headache. I am proud that we just celebrated our one year mark and are doing REALLY well way better than anyone expected. Then again I have high expectations so I expected nothing less that is why though it is "good" I want it to be better and I see areas of opportunity where it can be made better.
Conferences
I am presenting at 2 upcoming conferences. One in May and One in June so it is time to prepare for those.
Lower surgery
I discussed this like 50 million times since I started this blog so basically I just need to move forward so that I can set a date and do what I need to do in that area.
Social life
I have some dudes that I need to hang out with. I have been better lately about finding time for QUALITY time with guys I want to build meaning full friendships with instead of spending Quantity time with a bunch of guys who I have nothing in common with other than medical transition.
I am looking forward to Soccer/ football/Social in the park starting back up. This will be the 4th year we have done this and I love it! We go from April to August having fun every Saturday that it isn't raining. This is SOOO much fun. Just getting out of the house. Not worrying about work or any other obligations but just relaxing having a good time with some good guys!
Family life
I am enjoying the fact that I have found a way to balance time with my AMAZING wife (she occassionally reads, lol) and my new sweet daughter. I enjoy being a family man.
DAMN I have a lot I am doing. I need a REAL vacation!
That's all for now!
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