Its all about an apple…

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The Honeycrisp apple was created at the University of Minnesota Arboretum.

As mentioned in a post in 2012, I started eating a low-carb, grain-free, sugar-free, and starch-free diet in 2011 to reduce inflammation. Ironically, I followed a copy of the diet from researchers at Cleveland Clinic that I received from an integrative medicine doctor. Inflammation is a huge factor in diabetes, heart disease, and countless other medical conditions.

However, the damage to my arteries was already done from years of eating a high-carb, low-fat diet. There was nothing I could do to reverse it. But, perhaps I could slow down the progression. My blood sugar was high then, and insulin injections were the next step. Diabetes and heart disease were the cause of death of many of the family members on my mother’s side of the family. If I reduced my blood sugar, I felt I could live longer. I am now the matriarch of the family.

When I started this diet, I tried eating various fruits to see which raised my blood sugar, testing my blood with a test kit. In our old lives, every day before I changed my diet, I ate one Honeycrisp apple, my favorite fruit. When I ate the apple on an empty stomach, my blood sugar rose as much as if I’d eaten a candy bar.

When I discovered this, I called the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum across the lake from us to see if I could speak to Jim Luby, the scientist mentioned below, who developed the apple, about how much sugar is in one Honeycrisp apple. He was delighted to share the information with me.

A few hours after we talked, he called me back, explaining that one Honeycrisp apple contained the equivalent of 9 teaspoons of sugar. I was shocked it was this much. Looking online, I discovered that a single can of Coke contains 9.75 teaspoons of sugar.

Some people can eat fruit without colossal blood sugar spikes since the fiber may offset some of the response to the sugar, but I am not one of those people. Thus, my story today is about the Honeycrisp apple, which I dearly miss, having stopped eating it 13 years ago. My way of eating prevents me from needing diabetic medication.

When Tom stumbled across the following article on one of his Minnesota history sites, he sent it to me, prompting today’s story. In any case, if you can eat apples freely, these have always been my favorite. Before we left Minnesota, it cost $1 per apple at Cub Foods. I treated myself to one Honeycrisp apple daily as a midday snack each week. My mouth waters when I think of it. No wonder…sugar tastes good.

From Kare11 News in Minneapolis, here’s the article:

“Local News

The man behind the iconic Honeycrisp apple retires, passing the torch to a former student.

Jim Luby retired this summer after a 40-plus-year career in fruit breeding at the University of Minnesota Horticultural Research Center.

VICTORIA, Minn. — The man behind Minnesota’s favorite apple has decided to call it a career.

This summer, Jim Luby retired after a 40-plus-year career in apple breeding at the University of Minnesota’s Horticultural Research Center. During his career, Luby and his team created some of the tastiest apples in the country, including SweeTango, Zestar!, and their biggest success, Honeycrisp.

Luby is now passing the torch to a new generation of apple breeders led by one of his former students.

“It’s a little overwhelming,” Matt Clark said. “It’s a lot to take in.”

Clark enrolled in the master’s program at the University of Minnesota’s Applied Plant Science program in 2009. He received his degree a year later and started working on his PhD. That’s when he developed a strong appreciation for apple breeding.

“I did my PhD in the fruit-breeding lab. I studied, actually, Honeycrisp. I had an opportunity to take a deep dive into why Honeycrisp has this special gene and to be part of the legacy of Honeycrisp in Minnesota,” Clark said.

After graduation, Clark joined the department as an associate professor in their grape-breeding department to develop new wine grapes that can survive in Minnesota winters. In late 2023, Clark was asked if he would be willing to transition to Apple and take over for his former professor.

“Jim is an exceptional scientist and a wonderful person, and there are some big shoes to fill,” Clark said.

Yes, some big shoes indeed, but also an iconic apple to live up to.

“Honeycrisp was our gem. It still is, and we use it a lot in breeding, and what we’ve realized is our competition is too, because of that excellent quality, the crispiness. So, we have to step up our game to compete with everybody using Honeycrisp as a parent,” Clark said.

Clark said almost every apple they’re developing is somehow connected to Honeycrisp.

“Honeycrisp was either the grandparent, maybe even great-grandparent, or maybe even the parent to many of the apples we work with,” Clark said.

Every year, the research team plants hundreds of seeds, each slightly different. If the seed grows into a tree that can survive a Minnesota winter, the apples return to the taste test.

“It can’t taste bad, it can’t be bitter or astringent, but it might be a little tart, might be a little sweet, might have some interesting flavors, but if it’s not crisp and juicy like Honeycrisp or SweeTango, there’s no way it’s going to end up in our cooler,” Clark said.

The apples that show enough qualities to earn a spot in their cooler are then tested to see how long they can survive on the shelf.

“If they can only survive for a month and a half, then we kick them out,” Clark explained.

Very few apples meet their strict quality, taste, and shelf-life standards.

Clark said the research team usually tests out more than 10,000 combinations before finding one new variety that is good enough to release to the public.

“Apple breeding is a long-term investment,” he said. “20-ish years to develop a new variety.”

Clark said the next great apple may grow in their orchard, but he understands that discoveries take time.

“I’m not looking to retire any time soon, but if I’m here in 25 years, at the end of my career, we’re hoping to have more success stories on which we can look back.”

We are all different, and our bodies respond in various ways to foods and environmental influences. May we all strive to achieve the best possible health outcomes through good choices suitable for our personal makeup and health considerations.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 12, 2014:

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The indoor pool on Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas. For more photos, please click here.

How the 9/11 attacks impacted travel in the past 23 years…

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Photo by Thomas E. Franklin/The Bergen Record/AP. Firefighters George Johnson, Dan McWilliams, and Billy Eisengrein raise an American flag at the site of the World Trade Center on September 11. Some have compared it to the iconic flag-raising at Iwo Jima, and the photo was later used as a postage stamp.

Travelers like ourselves have been significantly impacted by strict regulations at every port of entry, including more comprehensive scrutiny of checked baggage and carry-on bags. Travelers’ comments could be construed as potential indications of intent to commit a terrorist attack.

Visa restrictions made travel to certain countries time-consuming and cumbersome. Visa extensions have been challenging to obtain.

The 9/11 attacks fundamentally transformed the experience of traveling, especially air travel, in the United States and around the world. The changes were immediate and far-reaching, from tightening security measures to the psychological effects on travelers. Here’s a closer look at how 9/11 impacted travelers:

1. Tightened Airport Security

  • Creation of the TSA (Transportation Security Administration): Before 9/11, airport security was relatively relaxed. After the attacks, the TSA was established to oversee airport security, implementing stricter procedures that dramatically changed the airport experience. Travelers now had to pass through metal detectors, remove shoes, jackets, belts, and laptops, and subject their belongings to more rigorous scanning.
  • Liquid Restrictions: In 2006, further restrictions were added after a foiled plot involving liquid explosives. Travelers were limited to carrying liquids in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, all of which had to fit into a quart-sized bag. This became a routine part of air travel packing.
  • More Thorough Screening Processes: Random additional screenings, full-body scanners, and pat-downs became commonplace. Many travelers found the process more invasive, and some felt anxiety about the potential for racial profiling or being singled out for additional checks.
  • Changes in Identification Requirements: Travelers must present government-issued identification to board flights. This increased security surrounding personal information led to longer lines at security checkpoints.

2. Flight Experience and Changes in Airplane Policies

  • Restricted Cabin Access: One of the most notable in-flight changes was the introduction of locked cockpit doors. Before 9/11, it wasn’t uncommon for passengers to see the cockpit or for pilots to leave the door open during a flight. After the attacks, airlines reinforced doors to prevent access to the cockpit, ensuring only authorized personnel could enter.
  • In-Flight Protocol: Flight attendants and crew members became more vigilant in identifying potential threats. Passengers were also encouraged to report any suspicious behavior. The sense of camaraderie among passengers shifted, as many felt a new level of responsibility in ensuring the safety of their fellow travelers.

3. Psychological Impact on Travelers

  • Fear of Flying: In the months and years following the attacks, many people developed a fear of flying. Anxiety about potential hijackings or terrorist attacks made air travel more stressful. Some people opted for alternative means of travel, such as driving or taking trains, while others avoided travel altogether.
  • Heightened Awareness: Even frequent travelers became more hyper-aware of their surroundings at airports and on planes. The once-carefree attitude of going through an airport was replaced with a constant sense of vigilance. Over time, this created a new kind of travel culture where security was always on our minds.
  • Impact on Muslim and Middle Eastern Travelers: Unfortunately, Muslim travelers, as well as individuals perceived to be of Middle Eastern descent, faced an increase in racial profiling and discrimination at airports. Many were subjected to additional screenings and questioned more often, which added stress and frustration to the travel experience. Some even reported avoiding air travel due to the fear of being singled out.

4. Changes in International Travel

  • Stricter Visa Requirements: The U.S. government imposed more stringent visa requirements for people traveling to the United States, especially from certain countries. Many countries followed suit, tightening their own immigration and entry policies. The introduction of biometric passports, increased background checks, and the requirement for more detailed travel histories became standard.
  • Heightened Border Security: Security measures at international borders were also reinforced. Passing through customs and immigration became lengthier, with more in-depth questioning and screenings for travelers entering or leaving the U.S.

5. Economic Impact on the Travel Industry

  • Airline Industry Losses: In the aftermath of 9/11, airlines suffered massive financial losses. Thousands of flights were grounded, and the entire airspace was closed for several days. The reduced demand for air travel led to layoffs in the airline industry and contributed to the bankruptcy of several major airlines over the years. Many smaller travel agencies also struggled to recover from the downturn.
  • Rise in Airfares and Travel Costs: As security and insurance costs increased, airlines began raising ticket prices to cover the added expenses. Fees for checked baggage, in-flight meals, and other services became more common, making travel more expensive.
  • Decrease in Leisure Travel: Many travelers, especially those for leisure, hesitated to fly in the months following the attacks. Fear of future incidents and the hassle of going through enhanced security discouraged some from traveling unless necessary. The travel industry had to work hard to regain public confidence.

6. Adaptation and Resilience

  • Return to Travel: Over time, people began to adjust to the “new normal” of air travel. Though the changes were significant, most travelers gradually accepted the heightened security as a necessary part of flying. By the mid-2000s, travel volumes primarily recovered, although the experience had permanently shifted.
  • Focus on Preparedness: For some travelers, the changes brought a heightened sense of preparedness. Many became more aware of emergency procedures, paid more attention during safety briefings, and learned to navigate airport security efficiently. Some even carried emergency supplies or developed mental strategies to cope with anxiety.

While the overall experience of traveling, especially by air, became more stressful and time-consuming, 9/11 also introduced a new sense of unity and responsibility among travelers. The shared experience of heightened security brought people closer, and many found ways to navigate the challenges with resilience and understanding.

We continue to pray for our country’s and its citizens’ safety in challenging times.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 11, 2014:

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On this date, Tom and I enjoyed dinner at Giovanni’s specialty restaurant, where we ate a fabulous meal aboard Royal Caribbean Brilliance of the Seas. For more photos, please click here.

A story from ten years ago…We haven’t changed much…

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In many countries, we don’t see this much use of color in the buildings, which are often brick and stone from centuries ago. Much of Reykjavik, Iceland, has been built over the past 50 years.

On this date, ten years ago, we were on a ship-arranged tour in Reykjavik, Iceland. We opted for the full-day off-road adventure in a large, giant-tired land and water vehicle. It was a pricey tour, but with only eight passengers, it was perfect. Unfortunately, it rained the entire day. But neither of us hesitated to exit the vehicle to revel in Iceland’s wonders, ending up soaked but exhilarated.

As I reviewed the post from ten years ago, I was reminded of our enthusiastic emotional state and the joy we were experiencing in year two of our world travels. Thus, unlike anything we’ve done in the past, I am sharing the verbiage we wrote on September 10, 2014. You can see the entire post here.

So, here we go, the post we wrote ten years ago today:

“Happiness is fleeting. At times, it wraps around our hearts during a special moment or entirely surrounds us on a day when everything in the world is right. We experienced our fair share of those special moments in our old lives. However, the challenges of everyday life are often imposed upon maintaining a perpetual state of contentment.

A pipe broke, spewing water all over the basement. An error on our cable bill threw us into a frenzy to correct it, perhaps leaving us frustrated and angst throughout the day. Day-to-day life has many challenges, often entirely out of our control or beyond our realm of responsibility.

Of course, the greatest angst of all is when we do make a mistake, an oversight, or an unintended spontaneous blurb that may hurt the feelings of a loved one or friend. It is during these times that we may feel as if it will never be right again, and happiness becomes a fleeting memory.

When we left life in Minnesota almost two years ago (October 31, 2012), we had no expectations of happiness being a daily state, of being consistent, or even somewhat dependable.

After being ill for many years and suddenly becoming well in August 2011, we both felt a sense of urgency to take advantage of my renewed health by living “outside the box” for as long as health allowed. It could all change in a day, a week, or a month. We chose happiness as a way of life.

We asked ourselves how we could best achieve such a state of happiness. The answer in our hearts was being free of most responsibilities, certain obligations, and the tasks of maintaining a house, a car, and a lawn.

We were left with only the responsibility of financial matters, planning and following our travel schedule, and, of course, to one another.

Communicating with our faraway loved ones has been nothing but pure joy. Yes, we occasionally feel a tinge of guilt for leaving everyone. But it doesn’t consume us when we’re committed to loving them all with open hearts, not guilt or sorrow, both of which impede happiness. They know we love them.

Ah, the old clichés. Terms such as “live life when you can,” “live life on your terms,” or “live your dreams ” are often espoused when speaking to others, but we seldom adopt these principles for ourselves.

So, here we are, “living life on our terms,” pleasing some, frustrating others, and leaving some curious about how we could dispose of everything we knew and love to make a life of happiness.

Whatever comes, we’ve been exquisitely happy these past almost two years. We often look at one another with expressionless faces, eyes locked upon each other, when suddenly, a wide-tooth-baring grin, almost from ear to ear, fills our aging faces with pure and simple happiness.

“Pinch me,” I often say. “Is this well-organized, meticulously planned, and executed like ours?” Yep. That’s us.  And for however long it lasts, we’re grateful.

We love it now as much as the first day we left the US on January 3, 2013, after spending two months back and forth between Arizona and Nevada, planning our final details. In many ways, we love it more now, with the experience under our belts, the kinks worked out, and the fear all but gone.

I no longer fear flying in tiny airplanes, scorching hot weather without AC, lack of screens on windows, scary bugs, rough conditions, or rough roads. Laying it in God’s hands, coupled with common sense to keep us safe, we carry on.

Today, we share the last of our photos from Monday’s Iceland tour. Monday night, we departed Iceland and will be out to sea for five days. I won’t have WiFi until Sunday morning at 8:00 Eastern time when we dock in Boston. Please email me if anyone needs to reach me, and I’ll check daily.

Posts and photos will continue daily when we’re out at sea, during which I’ll use Tom’s computer with the ship’s slow WiFi signal. In the meantime, we’ll continue to have fun, cherishing each moment, every week, every month, and every year of happiness for however long we’re gifted with the desire to continue on.”

We haven’t changed much, have we? Regardless of how challenging the issues we face, we always strive to be challenged and fulfilled in life. Thank you for being here with us.

Be well

Photo from ten years ago today, September 10, 2014:

Icelanders believe Leif Erickson, represented in this statue, discovered America, not Christopher Columbus. For more photos, please click here.

Have to start living again…Cancelled dinner plans…

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We enjoy spotting gorgeous roses in many countries.

We had to cancel dinner plans for the second time with friends Carol and Mark while we were in Cleveland. The first time was on Wednesday when, shortly before dinner, we went to the emergency room when I had horrific high blood pressure and heart rhythm issues after stopping the drug Flecainide six days earlier. Today is the second time.

Now, on the latest drug, Multaq, I am suffering from horrible side effects after three days on the drug. I can barely move. My arms and legs are weak and painful, and periodically, I find myself out of breath. I am determined to keep taking the drug until I’ve used the entire month’s supply.

After already trying five other drugs over the past few years with similar side effects that never stopped after continued use, I will be out of options. I’ll have no other choice than to take my chances and not treat my irregular high blood pressure and heart rhythm irregularities. That’s the way it is. In the meantime, nothing is required of me but to feel better. No place to go. No one to see. No obligations.

Between us, we’ll manage to make dinner each night, or, when necessary, we can order delivery, which is easy, although expensive. I found a healthy Asian delivery restaurant that makes fantastic bowls with kale, kimchee, lots of veggies, and chicken or beef. These are much healthier than Chipotle bowls. Tom likes Reuben and hot corned beef sandwiches and fries from a local deli.

We’ve been ordering enough for two nights, running about $100 with free delivery (free through Amazon Prime), tax, and tip. This averages $50 a night, more than buying groceries but less than dining out. We can make two to three dinners with what we have on hand, which we ordered from Costco, and order out for the rest. This will average about $300 per week, $100 more than if we cooked nightly.

With the hotel’s complimentary breakfast, which we partake in daily, Tom often doesn’t feel hungry for dinner since he eats more filling food than I do. But I always need to have a meal in the evening. It will all work out well.

Today, I considered not writing a post due to my extreme weakness and need to lie down. But, as patient as all of our readers have been, I at least wanted to post something and let you know that we are thinking of you, regardless of our current challenges.

Yesterday, our friends Marylin and Gary called to see how we’re doing after they’ve been in Marloth Park for many weeks. Several batches of family and friends visited one after another while they stayed in Louise’s house. It was delightful to hear how much fun they had these past few months, with one fantastic adventure after another. This only enhances our desire to return to Marloth Park once the weather cools down, closer to winter.

That’s it for today, folks. We’ll be back again soon.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 9, 2014:

In many areas of Iceland, steam rose from the ground due to the activity of the tectonic plates. Overall, Iceland is an island where earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are expected. For more photos, please click here.

Finally, we’re back!…A diagnosis…Huge savings on prescription drugs!…

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A storm was on the horizon over the Indian Ocean.

I don’t know where to begin. It’s been an interesting and rough past several days since we went to the ER at Cleveland Clinic on Wednesday when I  had another concerning spike in blood pressure. 220/122, which felt like “birds flying around in my chest,” while I was breathless and could barely walk.

It has been six days since I stopped taking the dangerous drug Flecainide, and the symptoms the drug supposedly covered returned with a vengeance. Since no alternative drug was to be prescribed until after I had the angiogram on Friday and after I was required to stop taking Eliquis, the vital blood thinner to prevent strokes, the ER cardiologist felt I needed to be closely monitored in the hospital until the test was conducted. I was returned to Eliquis and some form of heart rhythm drug that would be safer.

A few days earlier, the electrophysiology cardiologist, Dr Keogh, insisted that l immediately stop taking the drug Flecainide, which can be deadly for heart surgery patients such as me. Below, I will list the discoveries made this past week since my appointments began at the Cleveland Clinic, many shocking to us after all we’ve been through with my health issues over the past few years.

  1. I do not have severe mitral and tricuspid valve regurgitation, which three cardiologists diagnosed in three different countries after three echocardiograms. Thus, I do not need valve surgery at this time based on the comprehensive echocardiogram I had at the Cleveland Clinic. My valves are moderate, but that could change to severe in months or…if I’m lucky, not at all. Of course, we’re thrilled I don’t need the surgery now. But we’re highly frustrated to have been misdiagnosed by three doctors, resulting in considerable worry and concern. At the same time, we’ve waited for my appointments at Cleveland Clinic since making the appointments last March.
  2. The drug Flecainide was prescribed without hesitation by the three cardiologists, as mentioned earlier, with no consideration for the fact that this drug is toxic for patients, let alone anyone who had previous CABG surgery (cardiac bypass surgery). This toxicity caused me to be unable to walk and be out of breath from walking a short distance. Why didn’t they know this?
  3. After the angiogram on Friday, it was discovered that one of my bypassed arteries had failed, and my arteries are too small to add a stent. Instead, when and if I have bad symptoms, I’ll have to have another bypass surgery. Time will tell.

I was started on a new drug on Friday night, Multaq, which also has serious side effects but is safer than Flecainide for my situation. The bad part of this drug is that in the US, the drug costs as follows:

$850 for a 30-day supply

  • Multaq 400 mg oral tablet costs around US $850 for a supply of 60 tablets, depending on the pharmacy you visit. Quoted prices are for cash-paying customers and are not valid with insurance plans. The recommended dose is 60 tablets a month, 400 mg., taken with breakfast and again with dinner since it is necessary to take it with food to avoid severe stomach upset.
  • Fortunately, I found the drug at PharmStore.com, where I can buy 180 tablets for US $648.99. At this point, I am taking only one tablet a day, cut in half, which the doctors said was fine as long as I take only as much as I need to reduce the side effects and work for me. Currently, I am having harsh side effects, but they should improve in months to come. I’ll be thrilled if I can avoid doubling the dose to prevent more side effects.

4. The doctors (I have four cardiologists) suggested we stay here for the next six to eight weeks while I become accustomed to the drug to control my heart rate, blood pressure, Afib, and PVC symptoms. If it doesn’t work, they’ll have to switch me to an alternative with only a few remaining that I can take. In the past, I’ve already tried five drugs, resulting in intolerable, life-changing side effects. Quality of life is crucial. I am not willing to be sleepy all day or be unable to breathe or walk. Nor do I want to be going to ERs with outrageously high blood pressure, heart rate, and arrhythmias.

It’s a convoluted series of issues, none of which I can avoid over the long haul. But, to be able to avoid surgery and a long recovery right now is a huge relief, and I chose not to worry about what’s to come in the future. We are both excited to return to our world travels in the next few months. We’re contemplating several options, including our next journey to South Africa when it cools down.

Again, thank you for all of your concern and warm wishes. It has meant so much to both of us over these many months and kept me busy on my phone while I was lying in a hospital bed for the past three days and nights.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 8, 2014:

The Videyjarstofa house, where a restaurant is now located, was built in 1755 and is thus the first construction made of stone and cement in the country. The church was consecrated in 1774 and is still the second oldest one. The island became the seat of the first Icelandic treasurer and later the first Icelandic sub-governor. At the beginning of the 20th century, the country’s first harbor for ocean-going vessels was built on the eastern part of the island, from which a hamlet developed.For more photos, please click here.

More tests this morning…Feeling much better and extremely hopeful…

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Stonehenge..

Is it possible I won’t have to have another open heart surgery? Based on test results so far, it’s looking like I may not need to. But the biggest test is upcoming on Friday, and the one I am dreading the most is a cardiac angiogram. It’s an unpleasant test. I’ve had it twice in the past.

If I could be anesthetized during the test, I wouldn’t mind so much, but this test is done while the patient is awake. The idea of being awake again for yet another one of these tests while they cut a hole in my groin or wrist, which they will have numbed with lidocaine, is a bit intimidating to me. Also, a mild sedative is usually provided.

There is no pain during the test, but the concept of a thin wire being threaded into my heart makes me cringe a bit. For some patients, this may not be an issue. Of course, it’s important to discuss concerns with the physician and the anesthesiologist who will be present during the test.

An angiogram is a medical imaging procedure used to visualize the inside of blood vessels and organs, primarily to identify and diagnose issues related to blood flow, such as blockages or abnormalities in arteries and veins. The procedure involves using X-rays and a contrast dye injected into the bloodstream, allowing doctors to see the blood vessels more clearly on the X-ray images.

Angiograms are crucial tools in diagnosing a range of cardiovascular conditions. When a patient experiences chest pain, shortness of breath, or unexplained fatigue, doctors may suspect an issue with the heart or the blood vessels supplying it. An angiogram can help determine whether there are any blockages or narrowing of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. This is particularly important in diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD), a leading cause of heart attacks.

It was in South Africa in February 2019 that I had an angiogram that determined that I needed immediate open heart surgery, which is called CABG (yep, pronounced “cabbage”), which is a “coronary artery bypass graft.”

Angiograms can examine blood vessels in other parts of the body, including the brain, kidneys, legs, and heart. For instance, a cerebral angiogram can help identify issues such as aneurysms (weak spots in blood vessels that can rupture) or arteriovenous malformations (abnormal connections between arteries and veins), leading to severe complications if not treated.

Undergoing an angiogram involves several steps, beginning with preparation. Patients are typically advised to avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure. Once at the hospital, they may receive a mild sedative to help them relax.

The procedure usually occurs in a catheterization lab, a specialized room equipped with imaging equipment. The patient lies on a table, and the area where the catheter will be inserted is numbed with a local anesthetic. The catheter, a thin, flexible tube, is inserted into a large artery, usually in the groin or wrist, and carefully threaded through the blood vessels to the area of interest.

Once the catheter is in place, the contrast dye is injected through it. As the dye travels through the bloodstream, it highlights the blood vessels on the X-ray images, allowing doctors to see any areas of concern. Patients may feel a brief warm sensation or a flush as the dye is injected, but this is typically mild and short-lived.

The entire procedure usually lasts about 30 to 60 minutes, though it can vary depending on the case’s complexity. After the angiogram, the catheter is carefully removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding. Patients are typically monitored for a few hours to ensure no complications before they can go home, though some may need to stay overnight.

Like any medical procedure, an angiogram carries some risks, though they are generally low. Potential complications can include allergic reactions to the contrast dye, bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site, and, in rare cases, damage to the blood vessels or kidneys. However, the benefits of accurately diagnosing potentially life-threatening conditions often outweigh these risks.

Patients need to discuss their medical history with their doctor before the procedure, particularly if they have allergies, kidney problems, or are pregnant, as these factors can influence the safety and approach of the angiogram.

Following an angiogram, the results will help guide the next steps in a patient’s care. If a blockage or narrowing is found, doctors may recommend further treatments such as angioplasty (a procedure to open the narrowed arteries) or surgery. Sometimes, the angiogram might lead to lifestyle recommendations, such as dietary changes, exercise, or medications to manage the underlying condition.

Overall, an angiogram is a vital diagnostic tool in modern medicine. It provides detailed insights into blood vessels’ health and helps inform treatment decisions that can save lives. This procedure combines advanced technology with expert medical care to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.

This morning, after being off the high-risk Flecainide for five days, I had a repeated stress test. I completed the test but am not confident that the results were ideal based on the conversations between the three technicians performing the test. But I could be wrong. Within the next few hours, after the doctor has accessed and documented the test results, I’ll be able to see his assessment in My Chart. I wait patiently.

After Friday’s angiogram, I’ll know even more. We’ll continue to post results.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 3, 2014:

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Tom, at Stonehenge, England. It was a rainy day, and we were soaked, but we took many photos. For more photos, please click here.

We’ve arrived in Cleveland!…Clinic appointments begin tomorrow…

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This is artwork from the Victoria and Albert Museum, which we could walk to from our South Kensington, UK hotel.

What a relief to be here. If something goes wrong, I am where I’m supposed to be. Although I am a little anxious about what’s to come, the peace of mind of finally being here outweighs any apprehension. No doubt, most of us feel a little out of sorts when facing significant medical appointments when we have no idea as to the outcome.

Will I have surgery right away? What if I must wait for a surgical opening for another few months? Will the breathlessness worsen while I wait? Hopefully, these questions will be answered in the next few weeks or sooner. In any case, knowing what is on the horizon will give us both peace of mind to finally know what is upcoming.

The two-day drive was easy when we only drove about 350 miles each day, allowing us to stop for breakfast, a restroom break, and refueling without feeling rushed. We arrived at the Cleveland Clinic complex around 4:00 pm. Little did we know there were two Intercontinental Hotels in the immediate area.

We ended up at the wrong hotel, the Intercontinental when we were booked at the Intercontinental Suites Hotels, a few blocks away. In no time, Tom maneuvered me in the wheelchair back to the car, and off we went to the correct location, having no trouble finding it.

No words can express how grateful I’ve been to have the wheelchair. Thanks to many readers who encouraged me to buy one during this challenging time. It was the best purchase we’ve made in years. Hopefully, after recovering from my treatment and recovery, I won’t need to use it.

There are some nuances in using a wheelchair when, in fact, I can still walk unassisted about 20 feet without gasping for air. This morning, at the breakfast buffet in the hotel ($22.00 per person plus tax and tip), I insisted on getting out of the chair to serve myself. Tom was concerned I’d have a problem, but the short buffet was within the 20-foot range, and I did fine. It would have been tricky to serve myself while seated. I’m trying to maintain a level of independence. I’ll need constant help after surgery, so I’d like to preserve a little leg strength and mobility while I can right now.

Last night, we ordered room service, and it was mediocre. I ordered the most sparse Cobb salad I’ve ever had, and Tom had a grilled cheese sandwich with potato chips. That bill was almost $50. We’re trying to keep our daily food purchases $80 – $100 daily, leaving us with $50 for breakfast and $30 – $50 for dinner.

Thus, we decided to order some groceries from a local market, with free delivery from Instacart for the next month. This morning, I ordered two roasted chickens, two premade chicken and veg salads, and cooked white rice for Tom. Our room has a refrigerator and a microwave, and the grocery order was $34, including tax and delivery. There’s enough food to get us through three to four dinners. We’ll only be in this hotel until September 2.

Once we know what the future holds, we’ll move to a nearby Residence Inn by Marriott to stay through my recovery, for however long that may be. Once we know what’s on the horizon, we’ll book the Residence Inn through Bonvoy member benefits for a reasonable price, as we did at the same hotel in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.

How are we holding up? Actually, very good. We are upbeat and looking forward to getting all of this behind us so we can continue our world travels.

My first appointment is at 12:45 pm tomorrow, and we don’t need to arrive until noon to check-in. A Cleveland Clinic shuttle will pick us up and take us where we need to go, which information is clearly outlined in “My Chart.”  From there, I have two more appointments. We should be done tomorrow by 5:00 pm, with more appointments to be arranged in days to come.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 27, 2014:

Our new friend/reader, Liz from Bristol, England, took the train to visit us while we stayed in South Kensington, England. Meeting Liz, with whom we’ve stayed in touch over the years, was a joy. For more photos, please click here.

We’re on the road to Cleveland at long last!..

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If we could have cooked our meals in London, we would have purchased some items at this Farmers Market.

Often, we’ve been asked, “Why did we choose to go to the Cleveland Clinic rather than to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, a short 90-minute drive from our current location, which is also highly rated worldwide for heart treatment?”

For me, having already had open heart surgery 5½ years ago and with remaining severe cardiovascular disease (hereditary) and my age, I decided I wanted to go to one of the highest-rated valve disease cardiovascular surgeons in the country, if not in the world, regardless of how long I had to wait to see Dr. Gillinov. It’s been a four-month wait for my appointments, which are upcoming next Wednesday.

If I had to wait another month or two, it wouldn’t have been possible as my condition continues to deteriorate, as evidenced by the necessity of using a wheelchair to get around outside this hotel room, which I can maneuver if I frequently pause when moving about. But any trip outside, even to the car, requires using the wheelchair.

It’s helped make the past few days tolerable and allowed me to see family and friends. They even accommodated me to stay in the wheelchair during Friday’s pedicure.

Following are some of the reasons patients choose Cleveland Clinic for their procedures and surgeries.

  1. Reputation for Excellence: Cleveland Clinic is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the United States and worldwide. Its reputation for high-quality care, particularly in specialties like cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics, draws patients seeking the best possible outcomes.
  2. Expertise and Innovation: The clinic is known for its cutting-edge treatments and surgical techniques. Surgeons at Cleveland Clinic are often leaders in their fields, offering advanced procedures that may not be available elsewhere. This expertise is especially appealing for complex or high-risk surgeries.
  3. Multidisciplinary Approach: Cleveland Clinic offers a collaborative environment where specialists from various fields work together to create personalized treatment plans. This approach ensures comprehensive care, addressing all aspects of a patient’s health, which is particularly important for those with multiple or complex conditions.
  4. Advanced Technology: The clinic invests heavily in the latest medical technology and equipment, allowing for minimally invasive surgeries, robotic surgery, and other advanced techniques leading to faster recovery times and better outcomes.
  5. Patient-Centered Care: Cleveland Clinic is known for its focus on the patient experience. From pre-surgery consultations to post-operative care, the clinic emphasizes clear communication, patient education, and support, helping patients feel more confident and comfortable throughout their surgical journey.
  6. Research and Education: As a major research institution, Cleveland Clinic is involved in numerous clinical trials and studies, offering patients access to the latest medical treatments and innovations. This research-driven approach means patients benefit from the most current and effective surgical options.
  7. Global Accessibility: Cleveland Clinic attracts patients from all over the world, offering specialized international patient services, including translation, travel assistance, and culturally sensitive care. This global reach adds to its appeal for those seeking top-tier medical care.
  8. Positive Outcomes: Cleveland Clinic’s high success rates and positive patient outcomes contribute significantly to its appeal. Patients often choose the clinic based on recommendations from others who have had successful surgeries there and its track record of excellence in complex cases.

These factors combined make Cleveland Clinic a top choice for patients seeking surgical care, particularly those with complex conditions or who want access to the latest medical technology and treatment advancements.

We’re moving along the road to Cleveland and will stop for the night, well before dinnertime.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 25, 2014:

We had no trouble finding the distant Laundromat, Bobo’s Bubbles, in South Kensington, England. For more photos, please click here.

One day and counting…Packed and ready to go…

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Hertford Bridge, the “Bridge of Sighs” in Oxford, England, is similar to the one we saw in Venice the previous summer.

Yesterday afternoon, after I had a pedicure with my dear friend Chere at the beauty school in Hopkins, Tom picked me up at 2:30 to drive to Billy’s Bar & Grill in Anoka for our final get-together with Tom’s siblings for dinner and happy hour. It couldn’t have been more enjoyable to see everyone and visit with familiar patrons who stopped by.

But the highlight of the evening was when Tom’s long-time friend from the railroad, Tommy, stopped by to say goodbye to both of us and wish us well. Tommy has always been special to me, as well. This wasn’t the first time he stopped at Billy’s to see us. He has been reading our posts for 12 years and knows plenty about us, as many of our dear readers do from years of reading about our daily lives.

But Tommy has always been very special to me and Tom, and it was delightful to spend some time with him yesterday. Tom had pulled my wheelchair close to the big round table where we all sit every Friday, and when Tommy arrived, he sat between Tom and me while lively conversations ensued. When he left, we immediately continued our discussions with his family, and the time passed quickly. Thanks for stopping by, Tommy!

Before we knew it, it was time to go, and we headed back to the hotel, only stopping to fill the rental car with fuel for today’s drop-off. Tom left a short time ago to go to the airport to drop off the rental car and pick up another larger vehicle, preferably a roomy SUV. He’ll pack the car before we head out tomorrow and then shower afterward.

I just received a text from Tom informing me that he requested an upgrade for a large SUV. It was an extra $35 a day, but since we’ll drop it off in Cleveland on August 27, it will be well worth it. Once we know how long we’ll be staying in Cleveland, we’ll arrange for another rental car or not, depending on how close we’ll be to Cleveland Clinic at whatever hotel we book for the extended period.

This morning, we packed everything we own and were done in less than two hours. It proved to me, once and for all that I don’t need to start packing days ahead as I’ve often done in the past. Even in my current condition, where I run out of breath from walking across the room, I packed all the household items, my clothes, and the toiletries. Tom packed his clothes, and now we can relax for the remainder of the day.

Greg’s lovely girlfriend Heather will stop by within an hour to say goodbye since she could not join us and Greg’s family at Pizza Luce at 3:00 pm. She is driving from a location an hour from here. No words can express how much I appreciate this remarkable woman. I’m so grateful she and Greg have found each other. Heather has three children, who are a little older than Greg’s three, and together, they form a perfect blended family in which everyone gets along well.

These past three months in Minnesota have been a fantastic opportunity to spend valuable time with family and friends. It’s sad to say goodbye. God willing, everything will go well in Cleveland, and we’ll be back many more times.

That’s it for today, folks.

We’ll return with more tomorrow while I post “from the road.”

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 24, 2014:

The varying colors of the row buildings created a charming feel in the village of Oxford. For more photos, please click here.

Part 4…Suggestions from readers…Two days and counting…

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This is the famous Radcliffe Camera Building at Oxford University, UK, one of the best-known buildings on the 38-campus site.

Continuing our posts from the past three days, our dear readers and long-time cruise friends Judy and Gary suggested topics for future posts. Yesterday, we covered the first, second, and third items on the list below. Today, we’re covering the fourth item, “best and worst meals we’ve cooked.”

Here are a few topics to consider;
Favorite cruise lines
Favorite ports
Best and worst cruise ship excursion you’ve taken
Best and worst meal you’ve cooked
Favorite and least favorite country you’ve visited
Favorite and least favorite city you’ve visited

Regarding the “best meals we’ve cooked,” there are countless favorites we’ve enjoyed over the years. To keep this post within a reasonable size, we’ll review the meals we’ve cooked since we’ve traveled the world for almost 12 years.

In many countries where we’ve stayed for months and cooked most of our meals, we’ve had the glorious opportunity to enjoy locally-grown produce, chicken, eggs, and meat. When we arrive at a new location, we often search for the best local foods to purchase to prepare our meals.

However, most of these ingredients are used to prepare recipes we already know we like. Although we often try new recipes, we find them online or stored in one of my clouds. Overall, I have about 3000 recipes to reference at any time. As a result, we can’t recall a meal we prepared that we didn’t like.

As for those meals we’ve especially enjoyed, the list is infinite. We had favorites of, course, all of which are suitable for my keto way of eating, which include:

  • Pizza with Italian sausage, mushrooms, onions, sliced green olive, homemade pizza sauce, mozzarella and parmesan
  • Chicken Pot Pie made with an almond flour crust
  • Unwiches – similar to lettuce-wrapped unwiches at Jimmy John’s
  • Meatballs with homemade red sauce, mozzarella and parmesan cheese
  • Tuna patties
  • Chicken bakes (keto copycat from Costco)
  • Stir fry with chicken or beef
  • Steak, salad and veg
  • Chicken salad with a side salad
  • Taco salad (no shell, keto spices)

The above ten items are staples we frequently make with various changes to some ingredients that satisfy our taste buds and create a pleasant menu for a few evening meals. We often make enough of each dish for two to three meals. If we go out to dinner for several evenings, we can quickly freeze any of these dishes, except for the unwiches we make fresh each evening.

When we’re in a pinch and don’t have something delicious on hand, we can always make mushroom, bacon, and onion omelets with bacon on the side, all of which ingredients we tend to keep on hand.

I have undoubtedly written about these meals over and over again. But for our new readers, we decided to reiterate our choices, following along on the list suggested by friends/readers Judy and Gary, whom we thank one more time for providing us with these helpful ideas.

Yesterday, I had a wonderful day with lunch with my dear friend Karen, who happened to be in Minneapolis on business. Tom picked me and my wheelchair up at 5:30, and we headed to another restaurant in Hopkins to meet up with Tammy and Tracy for our final goodbyes. Again, we had a lovely dinner with the two of them. I had a small appetizer for lunch with Karen and a Caesar salad for dinner.

That’s it for today, folks. Soon, Tom will drive me to Hopkins to meet my dear friend Chere for our pedicures. She and her husband Gary returned from three weeks in Africa yesterday. I can’t wait to hear more about their adventures, although we connected via WhatsApp during their three-week vacation. She sent me photos almost every day!

After the pedicures, Tom will pick me up, and we’ll head to Billy’s Bar and Grill for our final visit with his siblings. We’ll get together with Greg and the three grandkids tomorrow afternoon for an early dinner and say goodbye.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 23, 2014:

At Oxford University, UK, there were a few streets where no cars were allowed to make getting through the crowds easier. For more photos, please click here.