pre-op story

I wanted to share this, because while I may be the only one my local hospital had with my unusual situation - I'm sure I am not the only one!

I arrived at the hospital at 6:15am on Friday, 3/30 - right on time.
They called me back to the prep area and my family were allowed to join me there.
I changed into gown and socks, and had to give a urine sample for a pregnancy test (even though my tubes have been tied for 15 years).

Then it was time to answer a million questions, and get hooked up to IV's...but I wear a collar. A sterling silver band, about 1/3 inch wide, that circles my neck and is bolted in place. It isn't removable, as there is no tool with which to remove it.

I've been wearing it since it was put on almost 8 years ago!

The prep nurse's answer was 'it'll have to be cut off' and when I said I wasn't ok with that option she got nasty and said 'well, i guess you won't be having surgery today , will you'

I insisted on speaking with whomever was responsible for making the decision, but I got no where.

Ultimately, the anesthesiologist came to visit. He explained what the risks are and why there is a concern - Da Vinci surgery, he said, tips you head down...your face swells. The band around my neck could cause problems. He asked me a great question: "what is the value of this necklace to you" and i was able to explain it is a symbol of the relationship between my husband and I. he thought about it for a while - and then put gauze between the necklace and my neck and taped it in place. He brought cutters INTO the OR. He said he would check every 15 minutes and if he felt there was a risk, it would be cut - -but that he would do everything he could to prevent that from happening.

When I woke up, it was the first thing I checked for - and it was still there.

Don't let standard protocol intimidate or bully you. You always have a say in what happens and where there is a will, there IS a way. This was important to me - important to my emotional well being. That made it important to the doctors involved, too, as it should be.

I hope my little (ok, maybe BIG) story helps someone else down the line. There are other girls like me out there..i know it.

Hugs,

`bidden