It's no fun being a 'drama queen' with friends--they know you too well and won't take any nonsense--you look for sympathy and they tell you it's a word in the dictionary BUT what would we do without friends???

(By the way I would love to hear from everyone/anyone who has been through the procedure and their experiences--the bad and the good--as I know everyone is different and reacts different--if you want you can e-mail me at mgood66@juno.com)

I received the following e-mail from Terry after I sent out my blog about the catheterization and the upcoming aortic valve replacement surgery--you know I'm not getting any sympathy from him!!! LOL



Ok, Martin, now lets get down to business. A few things you need to know from one that has been there. Cut the crap and start thinking about yourself, others can take care of the birds, etc.

The scar, excuse me, but you have seen mine, so cut out the vanity bs. Realizing that a couple of your friends are going on a trip and you, LOL, you get to drive the car. Which is more important, being around to see them return from their trip and hear their stories or driving the damn car.

If it has been identified that you need the surgery then get it done quickly......the longer you wait the more excuses you will come up with to delay the procedure.

Oh and a few other things, you are going to have to learn to use that damn elevator. You will be incapacitated for a few weeks, week as a kitten, in some pain, just wait until you sneeze the first time and expand those chest muscles after the surgery.

For gods sale, listen to the doctors, follow, I MEAN FOLLOW their suggestions and recommendations. Their thoughts about your recovery come from experience, not something they like to do.

You will need someone to check on you, someone to stay with you for a few days, and excuse me if you think you are just going in -- have the procedure and then come home, you are greatly mistaken. There is a minimum of 6 weeks recovery, trips to the doctor, a treadmill test afterwards, lab work, diet changes to be made, etc.

Forget going out to eat like you normally do, those days are over for awhile.

Again, from a friend and admirer of you and the things you stand for, LISTEN, LISTEN, LISTEN to the professionals, take their advice, stop making excuses to delay and get it done.

I for one am looking forward to your next birthday party and I plan on being there and painting the town red with you.

Hugs, with a great deal of concern,

Everyone should have a friend like Terry!!!