While I wait for my follow-up appointment with Dr. Chatson right after the new year, my focus turned to other 'issues' that needed some attention; decline in vision due to my progressing cataract(s); and, my abdominal aeortic aneurysm.
My right eye (by itself) has deteriated so drastically, that I can see very few things clearly. Depending on the light, I can make out shapes and determine color, but can't read any sign - regardless of the font. Oddly, if I make a fist and look through a small crack (like a telescope) I'm able to see clearly. Albeit, just a small area. This makes sense. The cataract is beginning to form on the lens and by my making a smaller field of vision (looking through my fist), my pupil is dilating and allowing me to see 'around it'. The glasses I received in October provide no help, but I still where them. I'm sure it's providing some support to my good eye.
Wanting to initiate the process for cataract surgery, I began some (tedious) research for an approved provider. I won't expand on the catch 22 I was drawn into trying to get a referral, but I eventually gained approval to see a specialist at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. I have an appointment at their Stoneham location for early February. [I should have started this earlier apparently, given the two month wait.] With the next season on our heels, I am hopeful that we don't have any snow event that day (or before for that matter).
During this space between, I also wanted to revisit my Triple A condition. Late Spring, I had had two opinions, an MRI and two ultra sounds. Although each medical professional's estimates were slightly different on the actual size, each advised that the risk of treatment out-weighed the benefit. In addition, neither wanted to do anything until it got larger (5.5 cm). Depending on whom you talk to, my aneurysm was between 4.9 and 5.1 cm.
I made an appointment with a local vascular surgeon. I had seen Dr. Pare before and had to cancel a follow-up due to my chemotherapy. I figured that I was just looking for any growth and depending on that, and if needed, I would persue my options at St Elizabeth's.
Upon being brought into the examination room today, Dr. Pare was bought up to speed on my overall challenges. He instructed me to lie down and lift my shirt. After smearing on some goop, he started with the ultrasound. Surprisingly, the instrument was warm. I was ready for that initial shock of cold metal.
After a few minutes and some lengthy time spent over certain sections of my stomach, Dr. Pare said, "Well I have some good news for you today." Anxious to hear this, I said, "I could use some good news today." Dr. Pare said, "It hasn't gotten any bigger." He suggested a 6 month follow-up.
That was GREAT news. I thanked him. Wished him a Merry Christmas and scheduled an appointment for June 21st, which will be here before you know it.
Yes, this news is very welcomed.
