It's A Cruel, Cruel Summer: Once Again In The Hospital

I've not posted anything today, as I spent the day at the Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia.

After spending most of July and August in the Methodist Hospital in South Philadelphia (Methodist Hospital is part of the Jefferson Hospital organization), I reported to Jefferson early this morning to have a kidney stone removed.

The surgical procedure was successful, I'm happy to report.

I'm in a bit of pain this evening, but I'm glad to be home and I'm glad that my medical issues and hospital visits may finally be over.

Last month I reported to the Methodist to have the kidney stone removed, but my left knee was swollen and very painful. I was rushed from the OR to the ER, where the knee was drained (a very painful procedure) and the source of the pain and swollenness was discovered to be a flare of gout rather than inflection.

Had the knee been infected, I would had what is known as a "wash-out" surgical operation.

That I have gout explains the problems I've been having with swollen and painful feet for some time.

I suspected arthritis from my sport and work activity over the years, as I also suffer from arthritis in my back along with my nerve and spine damage caused by sports, work and life's "wear and tear."

Thankfully, the gout can be treated with medication and I'm now seeing a specialist. I hope to soon be able to take long walks again.

I returned to the Methodist this past Monday morning to have the kidney stone removed and after waiting for more than 10 hours, I was informed that I lost my OR time to a life and death emergency.

I was not happy to be bumped after such a long wait, but I was thankful that my medical condition, although painful, was not a life or death case. I prayed for the other patient to make it.

Today was "third-time lucky" - in a sense - for me.

I'd like to thank the fine doctors, nurses and staff at Jefferson and Methodist for their care and professionalism these summer months as I suffered from a serious kidney infection and other medical issues that landed me in the hospital for three extended stays, as well as the out-patient visits.

I'd also like to thank my beautiful wife for standing beside me and helping me to endure these past two God-awful months. And I'd like to thank my family and friends for their love, support and prayers.

Now back to work.