I had Surgery last Tuesday... a Hemorrhoidectomy to be exact. Some of you may remember back to August where I had a lousy race at The Wapack. It was after that race that I scheduled a doctors appointment to discuss the scary situation that had occurred during the race. It at that doctors appointment that I found out I was anemic and losing quite a bit of blood. Seventy year olds had a higher red blood cell count than me. A later visit with an endocrinologist pin pointed the problem. A hemorrhoid inside my colon was swollen, infected and bleeding constantly. (sorry if this is TMI for some of you). The decision was made that I would need an operation.
Well, last Tuesday I finally had the operation and it went quite well. Unfortunately, from what I was told, the problem is not yet entirely solved and I'll need to have a second surgery in about 6 months. For now however, the bleeding has been stopped. I went home with a Foley catheter for 3 days, which was thankfully removed this past Friday. I had a few rather uncomfortable days, but thanks to the magic of drugs and potions, I have healed quite nicely and was able to get out for a brisk walk tonight. Still no running for me for at least another week. For now, I'll take to walking on the treadmill or around town to practice power-walking/hiking for ultras. There is always something that can be done. I've even made my way to the gym.
So the update is the surgery went well, I'm recovering well and the story is still not over. However, the surgery last week will buy me some time and energy to compete at a higher level in the 2009 season. All thats left is to get back out there and train and worry about all of this later on at the end of July.
Glad to hear you're feeling better. You probably need to relax more...you're too young for such problems.
ReplyDeleteDon't worry about racing. Just get yourself better. The races will still be there when your ready. Glad to hera your doing well. Later Bro.
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed your blog and was glad to read that the surgery went well..I too have been dealing with anemia (for 5 years with it now at a severe level for the past 8 months) and understand just how frustrating it can be. I am glad that they found the cause and you were able to start the process of healing...
ReplyDelete