Dateline Dayton — A week ago Wednesday, Pauline and I were off to the hospital so I could have my cardiac catheterization, and possibly have a stent installed.

Upon arrival, I was taken to a room where I was prepped for the procedure, which consisted of receiving an IV, having an EKG and being shaved on both legs, telling me they are instructed to do both sides.

From my room I was taken by Christian to the surgical room, where the technician explained what was going to take place and how it’s done.

Christian asked if I had any questions, and I asked him how a stent is installed, should one be needed. He explained in detail the procedure and what I would need to do afterward. He couldn’t stress enough the importance of taking the medication that would be prescribed.

Getting Ready

Upon the arrival of my doctor, Christian gave me a shot to relax me, and the doctor gave me a shot to numb the area where the catheter would be inserted. I reminded the doctor I would prefer not to hear ops. He agreed.

The test was on. I wasn’t feeling anything, just as the technician explained. It continued without complications. After what seemed like a very short time, my doctor gave me the good news: He saw no reason to install a stent and would see me back in my room to explain the results and what comes next.

While awaiting the doctor,r I was asked what I would like to eat. The choices were a chicken salad or a roast beef wrap. Since I’m not a real fan of wraps, I chose the chicken salad. Pauline was in the room with me. and they also asked her if she would like to have something. She selected the roast beef wrap. Both were very good. Or was it that I was hungry?

Shortly after eating, my doctor came in and explained that he found a 40 percent blockage in one artery. He did not install a stent for that small of blockage. He did say that I would need to start taking medicine at bedtime to help lower my cholesterol and increase the good. He also said he would give me something for the chest pain.

I could drive on Thursday, which I didn’t, and after Monday, the lifting restrictions would be eased.

This was all great news, no stent and two pills with few side effects. Best of all, none of the problems materialized that I had theorizing and worrying about.

Yesterday was my followup with the nurse to check the site. Everything is fine. I did ask about lifting. She said I should wait a few weeks until I start moving cash registers around. With that in mind, I will work on my mug collection. Timing could not be better. The Boy Scouts’ garage sale started last night. I will check it out at lunch time today. They always have lots of mugs at very reasonable prices.

Should you need to have a heart catheterization, it’s nothing to fear.

Mr. Hennessey may be contacted at pmhenn@sbcglobal.net