Blood and the Three Bears

What possible connection could there be between blood and the iconic story of the three bears?

Thanks for asking.

As everyone probably already knows, in the tale of the three bears (according to Goldilocks), one bowl of porridge was too hot, one too cold, and the third “just right.” By analogy, that is like what I’m currently dealing with in my life. Just substitute the word “blood” for “porridge”.

Fewer than two months ago I had a TIA — that’s quick speak for a minor stroke, caused by a blood clot. If you want the full scientific name, a TIA is a Transient Ischemic Attack – a stroke that resolves on its own without any lasting damage. But it serves as an early warning for a more serious stroke, and preventative measures should be taken.

So, both immediately and long-term:

If my blood is too thick — another, possibly more serious, stroke.

If my blood is too thin — lots of nose or other bleeds.

So, like Goldilocks, I need the porridge of my blood to be “just right” every single day for the rest of my (long) life.

To achieve that result, my attentive doctors have prescribed two different blood thinners. Why take chances? I’m told that each medication works differently. Sometimes, I wish I were a doctor myself. My parents pushed for that, often, and I declined just as often. I told them — repeatedly — that I faint at the sight of blood. Especially my own.

But I’m older now, so I probably won’t faint, provided my veins and arteries are coursing with sufficient blood.

Fortunately, today when I have a medical question I can call one of my sons, or his wife, who are both doctors. Although their usual advice is to “check with my own doctor.” (When I say that I would like a second opinion. They respond, “And you’re handsome too.”)

I’m not complaining, just stating the facts.

There must be wisdom hidden in the above. I’ll try to sum it up.

1. Don’t get old. It’s a mistake.
2. I’m still glad I’m not a doctor. They deal with other people’s blood.
3. The life of a bear is much simpler than that of an 86-year-old man who is plans to remain active for many, many years.

Growl.

Alan