I really appreciate all the concern. It took a bit longer to get this out than I had originally planned because I’m moving a little slower than I thought I would be, but I wanted to let you all know how I’m doing. I’m in between meetings at the moment so I will make this super quick.

Yesterday I had surgery at the Cleveland Clinic to remove a cyst that was right in the center of my back, along my spine. This was elective in the sense that it wasn’t giving me any problems yet but it would become problematic if left alone. I simply chose to deal with it before it became a problem.

The surgery went great. It’s a surreal experience to have your back operated on while your awake. It was entirely painless and I felt very comfortable the entire time. Historically, I get really anxious about anything like this, especially in the moment but I was super chill the entire time. My blood pressure was really good, as was my heart rate.

I’ve been learning different ways of approaching things that cause me anxiety and apparently it’s working. I have a very good teacher. ☺

Anyway, my Dad came with me because he was concerned and honestly, I’m grateful for a number of reasons. Driving home would have been more difficult for me and it was nice to have the time together. We had a great conversation and I really miss having those. Thanks Dad, I love you.

Surgery lasted about 30 minutes and they did a great job of ensuring I was comfortable and never felt any pain. Oddly enough, they wanted to talk about my podcast because the Cleveland Clinic has been on it before and will be again in the near future. That was pretty cool because it served as a great distraction and it was a reminder that what I’m doing matters and makes a difference.

Anyway, they got everything removed and I’ll be recovering for the next two weeks. They’re letting me go walking and some light hiking, as long as I don’t fall or do anything stupid. They said I could do leg workouts at the gym but I think I’m going to hold off on that for a few days. The concern is that due to the location of the excision, it’s going to be pretty easy to pop the stitches. Anything that makes the skin on my back stretch is a problem. I just have to be careful for a little while. If they pop, there’s nothing they can do. So I’m not taking any chances.

I’m honestly in some pain and that pain is making me feel sorta rundown and tired. It’s totally bearable and I’ll be fine. I’m grateful that it’s not any worse than what it currently is. We all have our crosses to bear and for the moment, this one is mine.

I was able to go for a walk last night and it felt really good for a few reasons and I’m hoping to go again tonight. We’ll see how the day goes.

I’m going to be spending the bulk of my time refocusing on work over the next two weeks. I’ve had a great day and have about half a dozen interviews scheduled, as well as several new partnerships on the table. I’m feeling pretty good about that.

I guess I’m just overwhelmed by a feeling of gratitude and I’m all up in my emotions right now. Yes, my life is challenging at times, but I’m blessed in more ways than I can count.

Anyway, I just wanted to say thank you for all the support and well wishes. I’ll be back up and running in about two weeks. I want to say thank you to the doctors and nurses at the Cleveland Clinic who took such good care of me.