This has been a week to remember...

A lot has happened since I chatted last. I have worked a ton and only been home to sleep, until today. I would be remiss if I didn't account this past weeks events.

Wednesday, June 30th was a bad day. While working during the afternoon, Park Nicollet called me that my surgery, the focal point of my last year, was being postponed indefinitely because of the impending nurse's strike set to commence on 7/6, my surgery date. You have to understand; but, seriously, why did I have to be at work when all I wanted to do was run, hide and cry. I wasn't the only one affected by this potential strike. To think of the hundreds or thousands that would be affected by this strike, it was hard not to feel selfish, but feel sympathy. None the less, it was a tough day.

Thursday started so early and was a struggle all day. I had to come in to work at 4am to begin and finish and post inventory for the restaurant AND work a double. I worked a total of 20 hours that day; but, in the middle, at about 1:30 pm, the hospital called me an informed me that the strike was resolved and a stoppage was averted. I was elated and called my loving wife as fast as I could. We did a little dance on each end of the phone. I slept very hard that night.

Friday and Saturday were very tough, as I was at my second home, Target Field, and I was unable to have anything at the stadium. It had a joyless effect on me. Saturday, I forgot to take my protein drink before going to the park. We eventually had to leave in the 8th inning because I was feeling dizzy from lack of food and the heat. My wife was so awesome and strong. Instead of taking me to a hospital for fluids, she turned on the air and headed for home, trusting that when I said I was fine, I would make it home. We enjoyed my first relaxing night at home since early in the week. We watch a movie on TV and I headed for bed early and slept in late.

Now, it's the 4th of July today and it doesn't seem that special as the day goes. It's my sister's 15th Birthday today and I am looking at 7-9 hours of work for my last day before my surgery. My focus is the surgery and doing what I need to do to get through this last day of my liquid diet. As of this past Friday, I had lost 19.7lbs. In one week, almost 20lbs. That seems a bit unhealthy but it was necessary to get me to this point. I am not looking forward to tomorrow; but, again, it is getting me towards my goal. I won't go into the absolute hate I have for a bowel prep tomorrow and I will spare you the details. I look for one more entry before hospital on Tuesday. Thanks to all who have given me encouragement and sent their good thoughts and prayers. They are all heartfelt and appreciated.

For the greater good...