N5 and falling in like...

Wow...what a difference. I went to Chapel Hill on Thursday for my post op appointment and although a little "mushy", I was healing up fine. My doctor asked when I wanted to schedule activation and my response was the sooner the better. His response was even better..how about today. He called the Audi and was told to send me right over.

This activation was so different. After my first transplant, I felt let down by the experience. My audi at the time spent a grand total of 20 minutes with me and sent me on my way. This time, it was a 2 hour visit and I came away a lot happier. I am now sporting two N5 processors, even though my first implant is a Nucleus Freedom. It is so cool..I have a remote control that works with both. No more snatching the processor off to try and find the right mix..they stay in place while I play with the volume and sensitivity.

I find the compact size easier to deal with and it uses only 2 batteries (no rechargeable ones at this time..still waiting for fda approval). The plug for my cables is more discreet and in a better location.

It's more compact so it hugs the head more and the coil is shorter and less noticeable. It is also bluetooth compatible which led me to buy a device and new cell phone today. It's going to take a while to fine tune things, but I like it already. It is way better than using the neckloop..less interference and better sound.

All in all..I am a happy camper for the moment. Just wish the swelling would go away fast and I really miss blowing my nose...

Don't mean to be gross..but I can only blow "gently" now and that does not work well with a sinus problem...but..the alternative is an air pocket..and that I have had before with the first surgery...

Later all..it's almost bedtime..

There was a cancellation!

Got the call last Thursday that there was a cancellation and I could have my surgery on March 3rd. Tuesday, March 2nd, we headed for my oldest daughter's place to spend the night. She lives only 20 minutes from UNC, Chapel Hill, where my doctor is. Since we are two and a half hours away, it makes things easier to drive up a day early. My check in time was 12:30pm and that was 2 hours before the surgery was scheduled. There was a delay and I didn't go into surgery until 4:15. Three hours later, I was in recovery and an hour later I was awake and aware and getting dressed. Didn't get home till almost midnight after a long drive, a stop at the pharmacy (thank God for Walgreen's) and a bite to eat (Wendy's drive-thru). I was up and not willing to sleep so I was on the computer till about 4am. Took one pain pill and slept off and on till about 8am. Had a nap this afternoon but still up and running. Switched to Tylenol today as I hate the hard stuff and my head doesn't really hurt at all..the rest of me is a different story. I must have put up one hell of a fight as I feel like I unloaded a truck worth of freight..sore muscles all over!!

This time there was no big plastic cover..just a well wrapped bandage with lots of padding around my ear. I can't take it off until I return next week..bummer! I will feel so nasty by then. Going to attempt a shower tomorrow with a plastic bag over my hair to keep things nice and dry. Glad I have some of that no water shampoo I bought for the last surgery so maybe I won't feel too grungy.

If all goes well, I will be activated next week so I will let you all know how that goes...till then..