A day that was.

Yesterday was my birthday. I was not in the particular place and time that I wanted to be celebrating my birthday. No party or beer, no cake (devastating if you know my wife and how she bakes) and no cheer. I went to a movie early, at 11am, with my family. We saw "Despicable Me". It was an enjoyable animated movie; but, I have been battling intestinal problems for the past 2 days; so, I did not fully enjoy the experience. I've moved on beyond having a bucket of popcorn and a tankard of soda. I barely touched my Vitamin Water Zero. Seriously, who am I?

There seems to be a huge build up of gas in my body. The will is there to expel it; but, the body won't listen to the urge. I have continued the liquid pain medication, as I have some side, back and abdominal pain. I have been taking the same Atenolol 25mg that I was taking before the surgery and will continue until the 20th of July. This has the same effect of lethargy. I have been taking this new medicine, Omeprazole:

Omeprazole decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

Omeprazole is used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions caused by excess stomach acid. It is also used to promote healing of erosive esophagitis (damage to your esophagus caused by stomach acid).

Omeprazole may also be given together with antibiotics to treat gastric ulcer caused by infection with helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).

Omeprazole is not for immediate relief of heartburn symptoms.

Omeprazole may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Read more: http://www.drugs.com/omeprazole.html#ixzz0tO1ckoNa

Apparently, it is supposed to help protect my new pouch as I heal from surgery. One of the side effects is abdominal pain. I nailed that one on the head. I so look forward to being somewhat regular and normal. I know that it will take awhile. I am getting tired of liquids and broth. I never thought I would say that but I am tired of it. I know it's a process and I know there is a reason why the plan is set up this way.

Emotionally, I am feeling ok. I have moments of depression about what I've done. I know it is the right thing; but, I seriously have considered not going to anymore Twins games this year because right now it's too hard to not have a hot dog or a beer or anything that I have included as part of my game watching. I do not regret my decision. I never will. I know that what I've done is the right thing I had to do. I just have to alter my lifestyle. I have asked my family to not eat dinner around me and to not be the sole custodian of their meal preparations right now. Until I adjust fully, it will be too hard. I need them to continue to be somewhat normal; but, a slight change is not too much to ask at this point.

Thanks to everyone who has sent wishes and good will. It has been a great tool that has gotten me through. Thanks!