Rich, you can count me in on that symbolic being there by your side as you go through this. You have so, so many people all over the world who care for you and are wishing you the best. Not just that the procedure will go well, but that you will be able to stay calm and relaxed, too. I know you're really scared right now, and you have every right to feel that way. I would be concerned if you didn't feel some kind of fear or nervousness. And, your tears are a very natural and human thing - please don't hold them in. You need to let them out. But, also know that you are in a lot of hearts and prayers.

I hope you are able to find out this wonderful nurse's name. But, even if you don't, I have a feeling that there is a special jewel for her crown awaiting her someday. Know that she will be rewarded for her lovingkindness eventually.

Please take good care of yourself. And, please keep us updated. We've all gotten to know each other pretty well around here, and you're a dear friend to so many.

If you don't mind, can I join that group hug as well? I'll try not to step on Ren as she's hugging your knees.

And, if it will help, I can flash a bit of thigh myself.

I just want you to know that I am here for you too and I have a really good feeling about all this..I know it is scary but it is going to be okay!!!

The sedation will really help you relax...

Big hugs here again!!!

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Sandalwood's Cosmic Creations: Working with the magic of love....

I'm coming in late for this group hug, but I have long arms to circle all.
Rich, Sir, thank you for sharing and that nurse must be an angel. They really are there when we need them. I can't add to all the warm, funny, deep, or loving messages you've already received by I can echo them. I'll be lighting a candle, every day, just for you. I can't take the place of your Angel Nurse but just squeeze when you're ready and my hand will be in yours.

Hi everyone...just want to make sure that everyone knows that I'm going to Johns Hopkins on the 22nd to see if I'm a candidate for the brain stimulation procedure again...not to actually have it on the 22nd (tho if I'm told it should be done again I'll have it done a.s.a.p.) As I mentioned previously, the last time I had it done (about a year ago), the two generators implanted in my chest that are hooked up to the wires that lead into the brain turned out to be defective and provided inconsistent stimulation to the brain that created all sorts of problems. I had to have surgery to disconnect the wiring and the generators...but everything was left in place. So I've been walking around with two generators, wiring from my chest, up my neck and across my scalp connected to two probes in my brain...that have served no purpose. The problem is that, if this stuff is left in place too long without operating, it can become infected, and deep brain infections are usually fatal. The other problem is that, since my brain has been extensively probed three times already, the surgical risks are greatly increased. So, my choices are:

1. have it removed
2. have the surgery done again and hope for a better outcome

Logically, I know it makes sense to just re-connect the whole thing with new generators...but none of the doctors I've seen thus far are willing to do that...they feel that if the generators were defective, there may be problems with the wiring, with the connectors into the brain, etc. So they want everything new; I guess that makes sense.

So, I hope Dr. Lenz can set me straight. And bless you all for your support and words of care and concern. You'll never know how much it has helped.

FunTrivia's Circle Of Love For Rich

This circle of love is just for you.
We are giving you love and our hearts are true.
We built this circle because we care about you.
We will stay by your side and shed light on you too.

The circle grows larger each and every day
Each person brings you their love in their own special way.
We are here beside you and will never let you down,
You can feel the positive energy when you look around.

This circle of love has no end,
Circling you forever, my sweet friend.
You will feel our love wherever you may be,
Today, tomorrow and for all eternity.

Rich - before I give you yet another hug, on a lighter note - you must have been confusing all sorts of people when you have been through metal detectors since the first operation! I can set the alarm going with my stockings and suspenders!!

Now for a hug - are you ready, big squeeze!!

Take care

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From over the pond....

Sue has a good point, Rich! My little mirror in my purse sets the dang thing off in the airport!

Now, what I want to know is - does Sue have to strip in the airport in order to prove that it's really her stockings setting the detector off and not a concealed weapon?! See! Sue's flashing thigh for everyone now!

Tomorrow Vendome will be going into the hospital. Let's all show our love and support and send him as many cards as we can.

vendome e-mail address is: rdavenportparis@cs.com

Vendome, are you back home??? Let me be the first person to welcome you back with open arms. (((((((( hug ))))))))) How are you feeling?

Vendome, I am going to move this topic to Useful Tips and Tricks. We have a remarkable group of people who have joined our support group there and I believe this topic would fit in beautifully there. I hope you don't mind. <hugs>

Hi Rich,

I wish you all the best with whatever happens. John Hopkins is one of the finest hospitals in the world, so you should be in good hands. We're all thinking of you.

Terry

Bumping this up