Hey everyone. I apologize for the delay in my posts. I recently had endoscopic sinus surgery and wanted to share my experience with you.

I have been struggling with chronic allergies for many years. Due to allergies my sinus was full of benign polyps which greatly affected my breathing and overall quality of life. I had been putting off surgery for years because I was afraid and intimidated by the thought of giving up control even to a medical professional.

The day finally came where I said enough was enough and told my doctor I should get the surgery. Surprisingly enough I did not have to wait very long to get on the schedule. I had roughly 20 days before my surgery so I had plenty of time to prepare myself for what was to come. My biggest fear was going under anesthesia. I have never been put under before and the thought of what going under would feel like really made me uncomfortable. I had a difficult time balancing the rational thoughts of my mind and combatting lizard brain’s fears

1. I knew the entire procedure was very safe but I still could not shake the anxious feelings
   
2. Choosing to remain curious about my procedure helped greatly to prepare
   
3. Fear of the thing is often worse than the thing itself
   
   

For most of February, I was focused on how to prepare myself for the feeling of anesthesia. When I felt my anxiety creeping up to higher levels I used my breathing techniques to bring the level down. On surgery day I could say I was a nervous wreck, but I had worked too hard up to that point to give in to my anxious feelings. While waiting for my name to be called I would cycle breathing in for 5 seconds, holding then breathing out for 5 seconds. This calming cycle helped to remind me that I have been through things much more difficult than this.

I remember being wheeled into the operating room and then nothing after. All that time spent preparing for what “the moment” was going to feel like never even occurred! Once I started waking up I asked if they were going to start the procedure.

I am currently at home for recovery and I can honestly say I am very proud of myself for not allowing my anxious mind to take control of the experience. I chose to stay focused on love and acceptance and I was able to conquer my fears.

I would say that the whole experience was fun, but I would be lying. The surgery was a big mental challenge for me, but as anxiety warriors we thrive on mastering challenges.

Always remember that the fear of the thing is worse than the thing itself. You are a warrior, not a baby. When you sense things are getting out of control, take a few minutes and get your breathing under control. You will take back what is rightfully yours: your peace of mind.