Officially Over It
FTM Top Surgery
Drains
Complications
Pain
Ointment
Surgery
Grafts
Ice
Unsuccessful
Swelling
Fluid
Binder
Gauze
Alginate
Dressing
Powder
Pictures
Stress
Anxiety
Fear
Waiting
Discomfort
Follow-ups
Frustration
Anger
30+ days
OVER IT
So, when I went back to see my surgeon for the most recent follow-up, we found out that none of my skin grafts survived. So she had to remove them, which left me with open wounds that now have to heal — before we can do anything else — whatever that is. Interestingly enough — the skin grafts looked great until the day before my appointment. When I took a shower that afternoon, I noticed something wasn’t right. Unfortunately, no one knows what caused this to happen.
I guess the good news is that we’ve now gone from changing dressings 2–3 times per day to only once now. And we’ve now “graduated” to MedVance Alginate Dressing placed inside the open wounds each day.
It seems every time I think things are starting to look up (even just a little bit), something else goes wrong. One step forward…three steps back.
Some good news to share though. Because I work for an absolutely phenomenal company, Cisco…and our EVP/Chief People Officer of People & Communities is one of the most caring and compassionate human beings I have ever known — I now in the process of getting a second opinion. And no, it’s not because I think my surgeon did anything wrong…or that I don’t trust her. She has been and continues to be wonderful…but as many have said, it never hurts to get a second opinion.
So today I had a call with Dr. Bost from Advance Medical. I could tell right away that I liked him. Sense of humor and a real concern for my well-being and my desire to have a chest that I can be proud of. He even read my blog, and commented about what a wonderful wife I have.
We had a 30-minute conversation. He got all of my medical information, pictures, etc. and is going to be reaching out to medical professionals who will take a look at everything, have the necessary conversations and provide me with the information I need to make the best decision for my path forward. Did I mention that this service (the entire process) is being handled by Advance Medical at NO CHARGE to me???
I am beyond grateful to work for a company where people, including the executive leadership team, truly care about the employees.
So…that’s where we are now. I’ll provide more updates soon. A lot of people have been reaching out asking what they can do. Just reaching out and letting me know that I’m in your thoughts — and that you’re rooting for me is more than enough. The support, encouragement and love help much more than any of you will ever know.
Until next time…
Liam
