They're Baaaack... and eradicated (at least for now) too.

Well, for those who know and for those who don't, I had laryngeal papilloma's as a kid from birth until I was 11. I had many surgery's to remove these little buggers. There biggest threat to me was the possibility of blocking my airway. I was in remission until I was twenty-six when they resurfaced. Once again I had them removed by laser. I have a cool picture somewhere, but God only knows where I stashed it. Well, 9 years later and they came back. This is one of those things that no one really knows why they keep coming back or what triggers them.

Often been told that Caffeine can exacerbate the situation, which may be why I have never been a huge soda drinker but I do love my occasional Mountain Dew.

Anyhow, I went for my surgery this past Friday. In at 7:54 and out at 8:24. Although, I don't remember any of it as I was put under anesthesia and woke up at 9:30. Trust me, I was okay with that. They have come a long, long way. I remember staying the weekend in Children's Hospital in an oxygenated tent for this procedure as a young lad. This time, I was there for a whole 5 hours from check in to check out. They sent a bit out to be biopsied but they have always been benign and I am hopeful that trend continues.

So, for the next 48-72 hours I am playing charades with my family and keep my white board close at hand. Actually contemplating going to a Halloween party as a mime. My wife is not a big fan of charades but she is a good trooper. Here's hoping for at least another 10 year remission but I'd be okay with a forever remission too.

Awe Inspiring

You know, sometimes you watch a movie, and get that unexplainable tingling sensation.

You know the one, where you get a lump in your throat and your eyes begin to water. You want to cry but you try to hold it back because you're with other people and they might not feel the same way and well, frankly, society puts a stigma on emotion.

This sensation can happen when you're sad, unbelievably happy, beyond proud or just plain inspired. I have had this a number of times in my life.

I have had it watching "Field of Dreams" when the young "Doc" Archie crosses the line to help a young girl choking on a hotdog. I have had it when my Nana passed away and I read a letter she left my aunt. I have had this feeling when I was away at college and missing my parents something awful. I get it every time I listen to Cats in the Cradle. I had it again tonight after watching this video: Gratitude for Lucy

My cousin did everything: the video, the music, the lyrics, soup to nuts. He is the undoubtedly one of the smartest, most talented people I know. He is as modest as they come. He is truly awe inspiring.

Thanks for just being you, Shawn.