After All, Tomorrow is Another Day

News Flash - Surgery Postponed until July 15th 

A week after his angiogram, this reporter could not shake the rash caused by his allergy to the iodine contrast used during the procedure. During his lunch break, before his planned visit to go to his Cardiologist's office in the rural town of Fallbrook, he noticed the rash had intensified and started to spread down his torso and legs.

After the 40 minute drive, and then waiting for 52 minutes to see the Doctor, he removed his shirt in the exam room. Dr. Whitwam confirmed the problem. It's a rash, probably from the iodine contrast. He stated he could send his patient to a Dermatologist, but that would only prove to confirm his diagnosis, or possibly reveal other allergies. In any case, the doctor knew that Prednisone should be prescribed to mitigate the symptoms.

In addition, they discussed the need to postpone the surgery scheduled for June 5th for two reasons. #1. It is highly risky to open up the body when such a rash is present. #2. The ten day course of this steroid drug also creates risk during surgery, due to its effect on the body's ability to control bleeding.

During drive south from this outpost, the patient continued to feel "itchier" and more uncomfortable, as if he had a full body sunburn. He determined that going back to work would be a mistake. Using his bluetooth device, he called a co-worker and management letting them know of the change of plans for that afternoon.

Upon arriving at the pharmacy to pick up his medication, he looked up the phone number of the surgeon's office to report the information. The office manager confirmed the need to postpone, and upon review of the Surgeon's schedule, including his vacation plans for Independence Day week, the surgery was re-scheduled for July 15th. 

While standing in the shade of the facade of CVS, he text-ed family and co-workers, informing them of the new date. He then drove home to discuss the course of events with Elley. They agreed that although this was a major fork in the road of the planning and preparations that had been going on for over 2 months, that together they would shift gears, regroup, and accept the "cards" that had been dealt on Wednesday, May 29, 2013.