Deep Thoughts (without Jack Handy)

In about 45 minutes, I will be leaving for a doctor's appointment. Last week I was tentatively diagnosed with Hemochromatosis (basically, my digestive track processes too much iron from what I eat, and it gets stored in bad places). It's not as bad for me as it is for some people, according to some reading my wife did. But it can be pretty debilitating (even fatal) if not treated. Basically, I have to consume less iron, eat foods that prohibit its absorption into the body, and get "phlebotomized" (bled out) about once a month.

Add to that, I was also tentatively diagnosed with Bursitis. Hopefully, the two aren't linked, and a simple shot in each shoulder will relieve me of the paralyzing pain I feel when I move my arms the wrong way.

So, yeah. Physically, I'm a mess. But, it's all pretty treatable and manageable. Still, when this all hits in succession (add being diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes last year), it causes one to examine one's own mortality.

I will be celebrating my fourth anniversary in March. I have three kids, and the best wife a man could hope for. I am really just starting to enjoy life right now in a way I have never been able to. And I want to continue to do so for many, many years to come.

Am I scared? You bet. Who wouldn't be? I don't relish the idea of dying. And I'd be really pissed if it happened sooner, rather than much later. But, from all accounts, at this stage, all of the symptoms and damage from my various genetic ailments are manageable, and even reversible. So, I am kind of eager to get this going. Once my shoulders stop hurting, I will be able to work out again. Michele is already researching dietary options that will help with my problems, without having to restrict my diet, or make me eat cardboard (or worse, strictly vegetables!).

In other news, I am making some real headway in my first serious attempt a novel/novella-length story. It's Sword & Sorcery, and it involves my own "Clonan." But, the character isn't just another "barbarian in civilized lands." He has many of the same qualities as a Conan-type, but the origin of those qualities is unique, I think. I'm having fun writing him, and his cast of supporting characters. Already, they have altered some initial ideas I had for the story. And I finally feel like I know what I am doing. Now, to just devote more of my time to actually writing.

Damn Star Wars MMO!

Anyways, I may follow this post up later today with a rundown of what the doctor says. Until then...