Going Under

In case you don't know, I have been having problems with my tonsils for years.  I have recurrent strep throat infections, and as a result, severely scarred tonsils.  My throat is constantly sore, especially if I cough, sneeze, or just yell (or sing along with the radio too loudly!).

So, today I had my first appointment with my Ear, Nose, & Throat Specialist, Dr. G.  She was friendly, knowledgeable, and really put me at ease.  She took a look inside my ears, nose, and throat (obviously!) and then told me what I was hoping to hear.....

I am scheduled for a tonsillectomy!

Now, I have conflicting feelings about having this routine, outpatient surgery.  See, the thing is, I am scared to death of being put under anesthesia.  I know I shouldn't be!  I have taken care of family members after surgery, and I know how people are put under everyday and do just fine.  But I'm still scared!  I have even had lengthy conversations with my former professor at SMU (who was/is an anesthesiologist) about just how anesthesia is now.  But I can't help feeling frightened.

And, I know this fear is totally irrational for me.  I have absolutely no fear when it comes to flying down a curved, winding back road at 150mph on a streetbike, leaning so far to the side that my knee is almost dragging on the pavement.   Knowing there is nothing between me and the ground, except my helmet and some thin leather coat and my jeans.  Completely trusting my life in someone else's hands.  In fact, I miss doing that almost every day!

And, I have no fear when it comes to jumping out of an airplane at 10,000 feet, with a parachute strapped to my back, and my stomach feeling at though its in my throat, and flying straight for the ground.  If I could do that everyday, I would!  None of these things scare me.  But a simple, 15-minute outpatient procedure makes my hands clam up, and my pulse race even more than it normally does, and I start considering calling it all off!

Anyone have any advice?