H1N1 vaccine, finally
Finally, at long last, I received my H1N1 vaccine at the Allegheny County Health Department immunization center in Oakland. There was a steady stream of people getting the vaccine on Thursday, especially now that anyone qualifies to get the vaccine. It didn't take long. Just fill out a form, wait a minute or two, get the zap in the arm, then go on your merry way.
Even though the incidence of H1N1 has declined dramatically, there is plenty of science suggesting that we will experience a third wave before the end of winter. So be forewarned.
Yesterday, while I was in Oakland, I also stopped at the Starzl Institute to get my monthly bloodwork drawn to keep all tests current. That went quickly, too. The only pain is removing the bandage the evening after the test. Ouch and double ouch. They need to invent sticky nonstick tape.
so now I'm in good -- no, great -- shape for the holidays. I'm happy to have gotten all medical tests completed and successfully to have fulfilled all my responsibilities for the transplant before the holidays. Key to this process, I'm realizing, is to remain current, follow directions and keep a positive state of mind.
Which reminds me, I need to schedule my appointment with urologist Dr. Ronald Benoit of UPMC for April.
That's all to say, I'm feeling pretty happy at this point. All is well with my job, my writing projects at home (that I'll discuss at a later time), the kidney transplantation process and life in general. Our "new" old farm known as "Hideaway" is beautiful. And despite the kidney problems, I have more energy now than I had for decades with my blood sugar under tight control. I have let my exercise routine slip a bit in the past two months, but that will be my New Year's Resolution.
Good diet. Good blood sugar. Recommended dose of exercise. That's the easy prescription for healthy living, whether you have diabetes or not..
My goal now is to keep my cell phone charged in case I get THE KIDNEY CALL from the transplant institute and make sure I'm always wearing clean underwear.
Life is good.
Bring on Christmas.