Hey all, as I was perusing the internet this morning I happened to look at the date and noticed that today, four years ago, I was going under the knife/saws, etc. So naturally one must take stock on how I've faired. Well, I still have some hearing on my AN side, but if I hadn't had my BAHA put in, then I'd be suffering. My balance is pretty much normal. I will once in a blue moon kind of keel over if I am in some unusual position, but I guess that would be the norm anyways, right? I guess the biggest effect I've notice, aside the hearing, is the fact that when I get tired, it hits me HARD. Maybe it's the effect of getting older (I'm 49 now), but it's the new normal and if that's all that's wrong with me, then I am doing very good! I work out at the gym on a consistent basis, bicycle, run (planning on entering the Spartan race here in a couple of months) so I'm probably in the best shape I have been in a while. So there is hope, future posties! Even if you don't recover quite as well, know that there is life after the knife. You'll find all kinds of testimonials here on the forum that allude to that fact. I also want to thank a handful of people who've been a constant source of support for me: Phyll, Jim, Clarice and Jan. Also everyone else who all have chimed in over the last four years. It's been a blast being a moderator on here. Many of you don't realize what it takes to have a safe place free of soliciting and spam where you can vent and seek support without having to deal with insensitive people. You've got a great group of mods and the Director of ANA, Judy, who really do care about what goes on here. I will now end the lengthy diatribe and offer a small piece of advice. This forum is a great place to get support, but it would not be possible if not for the regulars who contribute on here or those who donate to the ANA (See the top of the page for the membership link). Ever since I got my AN, I've wanted to "pay it forward" and help others as others have helped me so I encourage you to do the same in whatever way it makes you feel comfortable. Ok, enough of that! Thanks again for a wonderful four years!
Jay
