On Monday I visited the University of Kansas Medical Center where I will have my surgery on October 16th. This was another pre-appointment in order to ensure the safest possible outcome for the procedure. I met with anesthesia, pharmacy and a pre-op nurse.

As I’ve stated before, the most concerning problem is my ability to breathe. As it stands, I already have trouble moving air due to the weakened muscles in my chest. They spent some time explaining how they will breathe for me and the precautions they will be taking until I can breathe properly. Honestly, I feel like as long as they can watch that, everything else can be dealt with. Pain is relative, but not being able to breathe is a completely different monster.

Meanwhile I am spending days largely working on coursework. I am actually only four classes away from graduating, and would have graduated a couple of years ago had it not been for slowing down after diagnosis. My classes, the History of Film Music and American Indian and White Relations since 1865, are online so I can continue working in the hospital.

I spend the rest of my time with two of my favorite hobbies, games and movies. I do my best to use them to keep my mind clear, busy and positive. That’s all I can do as I count down the days.