So the update is that I have a date for my IPSS. I have a pre-admissions assessment on Tuesday the 23rd of October. This is when you undergo a series of tests that check that you are suitable for the procedure e.g. blood pressure, weight, etc... Then, provided I get the all clear, I am being admitted on the 1st of November. The procedure will take place in the afternoon and should last a couple of hours max. I am required to stay overnight so they can monitor me.
I've had mixed reviews about this test with some people saying it's a horrible experience and others saying it wasn't so bad. Thanks to a friend of mine I'm able to think about it in a positive way and am feeling more relaxed about the idea now. She encouraged me to visualise it as a positive experience by switching my way of thinking. Kinda like going from seeing it half empty to half full. So instead of thinking: "OMG, I'll be able to feel everything" (in a panicked, nervous way) think: "Wow, how fortunate I am that I'll be able to feel everything, they won't be doing anything without my knowledge" (in a calm, optimistic way). It's easier said than done but I've been practising every day and I really feel like I've made some progress. So much so that I will not be asking for full sedation, maybe just a little something to calm my nerves. We'll see...
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