My Own October Surprise(s)

And Praying November Brings Better Things

Nov 05, 2024

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I’ve heard the expression ‘October Surprise’ and had a pretty good idea of what it meant. However, just to be sure, I turned to the online dictionary, where it’s defined as:

An unexpected political event or revelation in the month before a presidential election, especially one that seems intended to influence the outcome.

Yep, that’s what I thought.

I’ve had a few surprises in October, but they have nothing to do with politics. They mainly involved antibiotics, Kleenex, cough meds, and so forth.

I love autumn for the cooler temperatures, the gorgeous leaves, and memories of my happy childhood Halloweens.

Unfortunately, this year, I got sick early in the month and went to the doctor on the third, only to discover I had pneumonia. Many years ago, I had it as a freshman in high school and thought I was dying. It wasn’t much better as a 63-year-old, but I’ve experienced my share of illness and pain since then, so I was better prepared. Luckily, it didn’t require hospitalization either time.

I spent the better part of two weeks with a fever, coughing, night sweats, and significant fatigue. Thankfully, I got the pneumonia vaccine last year, and that prevented more severe symptoms and complications from occurring.

When I returned for a follow-up with the doctor, I was beginning to feel human again. He said my lungs sounded good, but I would need another chest x-ray in two weeks to confirm they were clear. He also said it would take some time to feel 100%.

Great! I was on the mend.

I’m immunocompromised from CLL (Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia). It’s a slow-growing blood cancer that also affects the lymph system and is one of the most common types in older adults. I can no longer fight infectious diseases effectively, so I’ll wear a mask when out in public, probably until next summer! 😷

My recovery lasted 10 days before the next virus got me. I spent the entirety of the month getting sick, being sick, and recuperating.

So, I’m ready for some positive CHANGES!

Two BIG events are happening in November. One is our general election to decide who becomes our next president and vice president. The other one is a trip to Jamaica with my daughter and sister that was planned (and saved up for) many months ago. I visited the island a few years ago and took a sinus infection with me. 😫

But we enjoyed it so much that we planned to return once our vacation fund was replenished.

I hope to be virus-free and completely recovered, and I am celebrating the win of my chosen candidate. 🥂 🇺🇸

Nothing would feel better than some salt air in my lungs and warm sunshine on my skin while I toast the salvation of our Democracy.

If you have any prayers or positive vibes to spare, I’d appreciate them. And so would America. 🙏 🫶🏼

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My Own October Surprise(s)

And Praying November Brings Better Things

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