Went to the Doc. today... :\

[Topless In Texas]

Well, I finally went to the doctor today...I had to get my TB test to renew my hair license anyways...so I thought what the hell?

So after 3 hours, 3 xrays and $250 frigin' dollars later, looks like I did some damage to the ligaments when I busted my ***** in Skyman's pc shop! .....he prescribed me an 'ankle brace' w/ some some support on the sides to keep me from moving it from side to side so it can heal better. Called the 'brace place' and evidently you have to make an appt. so the doctor can make sure it fits okay. Of corse this is ANOTHER $120! ....they couldn't see me, i need to make an appt. Nurse Judy said that I might can find one at Academy or somewhere like that thats a soft brace w/ some kind of beefed up side support that might be cheaper. Guess I'll start looking this weekend. Anyone ever found any like that?

guess its time for me to get health insurance...anyone got any good links to individual health insurance, that does not cost you your first born child?

Surprisingly enough, during my checkup my doc. (been going to him for about 15 years, ) said my lungs sound terrible and the word 'emphysyma' kept coming up....I dont think I can handle the thought of quitting smoking just yet. I gotta lose 15 lbs first. He said that they gauge it by 'pack years'. And for the number of years I've been smoking, that I'm at the point to where if its gonna happen, he's gonna start seeing it, and he is. He said that ive got the lungs of a 57 year old instead of a 37 year old. I havent been feeling that bad except for sinus problems that usually flare my asthma. So, needless to say, that was quite a shocker. It hasn't really sunk in yet though. I know I've been smoking a WHOLE lot more the last couple of years than I used to....guess if its gonna happen, i'm gonna have to make some lifestyle changes...like not staying up all night on my pc..that seems to be when I smoke the most. And if I'm not busy at work. Which is not too often. Although the last month or so, i've been doing a little better at going to bed but I guess theres always room for improvement. He also said that the sooner I quit, the sooner it will slow the progression. Just too wierd.

So, if any of ya'll have input on that brace thing or a good Health Ins. Co. to deal w/, lemme know! Thanks. TNT