Bright Ideas

I apologize for not having a Bright Idea last week; one finished article rested in the computer, but no one knew about it and I was “out of it” enough not to mention it. I might add it next week. This week is already covered.

I don’t like to mention my medical problems; you can’t fix them, and I don’t want you to worry. But I’ve been dealing with a nasty nerve pain in my right lower jaw — just where it hinges. Its medical name is trigeminal nerve pain. I’ve tried drugs to quiet the pain, and I landed in the hospital last Sunday afternoon, November 5.

That’s what happens when you overmedicate; it doesn’t hurt any more, but you’re totally out of it. I stayed in Dahl Memorial Hospital, Sunday afternoon through Thursday afternoon, being taken care of by friends and in one case by my daughter. A mother takes care of her child through her growing up years, hoping the resulting adult is caring, and competent. She is both. Anyone else cared for by her would notice the same.

The same is true of Alex L., and the rest of the staff. I saw Dale Diede, PA-C; he and I have a long history where I have asserted my strength and personality every time he makes a suggestion. He takes me with a smile and grain of salt. I consider us equals; equal partners in solving my problems.

My daughter suggested a permanent solution at home, before I entered the hospital, and Dale and I decided it was best. They do it in Billings. She will travel with us and help Brice “muscle” me around. The treatment requires an MRI to pinpoint the problem, and then it is “zapped” with radiation. The nerve is dead, incapable of causing more pain. It may affect the smile on the right side of my face or the cheek rising in glee, but it kills the pain.

Just look at the left side of my face and see the happiness I possess. Read my words without pain. You won’t see my face in the stories I write; you’ll see my spirit, spunk, and bravado! I will prevail; you would too. I’m no stronger than the rest of you. I’ve just had more chances to show off!