LAST TUESDAY I WAS STABBED FOUR TIMES IN MY ABDOMEN. Well, perhaps “stabbed” is a bit strong. Actually, I had my gall bladder removed laparoscopically (sp?) But it certainly felt like I was stabbed—and that the knife was twisted while inside, which in a way, it was. Before the surgery, the doctor explained in detail what he was going to do to me (oops, I mean, for me). While I appreciated his candor, I had three weeks to think about it—especially the part about how he was going to cut the gall bladder away from the liver.

The hospital staff was superb. They treated me with kindness and professionalism. I had lots of company in the pre-op preparation room with my wife and several friends from church who relaxed me with humor and then prayed for me. I was completely at peace as I WALKED to the operating room.

After I climbed up on the operating table, they had me stretch out both of my arms to the side on some type of board, while a contingent of gown-clad individuals descended on me with all manner of equipment. For a minute or two I thought they were going to crucify me! Seriously, though, they were very compassionate and got right down to business.

Shortly after coming out of the anesthesia, I was offered a glass of apple juice and some cookies, which I immediately devoured.
An hour or two later I was on my way home. All in all it was a positive experience and the mending of my tissue is well on the way. My surgeon told me to go easy on the fat intake for a while to give my digestive system time to adjust to being without the gall bladder. That was very sad news because I still have the same appetite for ice cream, cake, and pie. I can’t wait for a chance to get back to my bad old ways (just kidding). Many thanks to all who lifted me up to our heavenly Father or demonstrated their love via cards, emails, or phone calls. I am truly a blessed man!